bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Host plant specificity in several species of generalist mite predators
Authors: Beard J. J. , Walter G. H.
Published: March 2003

1. Species in the genus Neoseiulus are considered to be generalist predators, with some species used in biological control programmes against phytophagous mites and insects.

2. A general survey of Neoseiulus species in inland Australia indicated that different species are associated with particular tree species. This pattern of host plant use was investigated for four Neoseiulus species (N. buxeus, N. cappari, N. brigarinus, N. eremitus) by means of a sampling programme through time and across space.

3. Each species of Neoseiulus was collected entirely or mostly from one species of tree; little or no overlap was detected despite the tree species growing in well‐mixed stands. Host plant specificity thus appears to be strong in this genus.

4. Species in two other genera (Pholaseius and Australiseiulus), also considered to be predatory, showed a similar association with particular tree species.

5. The implications for the use of these predators in biological control are considerable. In particular, phytoseiid species with specific needs in terms of host plants may not be suitable for use as general purpose predators. Meeting the needs of phytoseiids through the modification of host plant attributes may be a step towards enhancing their efficacy as biological control agents.
Probing behaviour of Aphis craccivora Koch on host plants of different nutritional quality
Authors: Traicevski Violeta , Ward Seamus A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract 1. Reciprocal transfer experiments were undertaken using four different hosts to examine the effects of a change in host at adult moult on the probing behaviour of the cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora Koch.

2. The highest intrinsic rate of increase rm was achieved by aphids born and reared on cowpea, followed by those born and reared on broad bean, then Larissa, and finally Huia.

3. Mean probing time, time to first probe, number of probes per time allocation, and non‐probing time were all examined. Host quality rm did not affect the instantaneous probability of probing, and aphids that did not find a probing site within 200 s did not settle and did not probe further on that leaf/stem.
Sexual size dimorphism in the two spot ladybird beetle Adalia bipunctata: developmental mechanism and its consequences for mating
Authors: Yasuda Hironori , Dixon Anthony F. G.
Published: March 2003

Abstract  1. The literature on ladybirds indicates that males are consistently smaller than females but take the same length of time to complete their development. Rearing Adalia bipunctata at 20 and 25 °C confirmed that protandry cannot account for sexual size dimorphism in this species, nor can a difference in egg size.

2. Female larvae consumed more food and had a higher relative growth rate in the fourth instar than did male larvae.

3. When food is limited, small males appear to be more successful at mating than are large males.

4. To account for these results, it is hypothesised that the gonads of male larvae compete more strongly with the soma for resources and that this reduces the growth potential of the soma of male larvae relative to that of female larvae. The greater mating success of small males when food is limited supports the eat or mate hypothesis, which predicts that when food is limited small males will spend less time feeding and more time mating than will large males.
Intraspecific competition between healthy and parasitised hosts in a host–parasitoid system: consequences for life‐history traits
Authors: Bernstein Carlos , Heizmann Annie , Desouhant Emmanuel
Published: March 2003

Abstract  1. In two different treatments, groups of healthy hosts (Ephestia kuehniella) or hosts parasitised by Venturia canescens competed for a limited amount of food. The larva to adult survival in each group, as a function of the initial number of hosts and treatment, was fitted to the generalised Beverton and Holt and generalised Ricker survival functions, and a number of life‐history traits of the parasitoids was measured.

2. Intraspecific competition was scramble‐like, and the parasitised hosts were less susceptible to competition than were their healthy counterparts.

3. For both the healthy and the parasitised hosts, the number of larvae surviving to adulthood gave a good fit to both the generalised Beverton and Holt and generalised Ricker models, but the values of all the parameters differed between the two treatments.

4. Parasitoid size, egg load, and adult survival time decreased significantly with the initial host number.

5. Previous theoretical work suggests that both lower susceptibility to competition by parasitised hosts and scramble competition contribute to the dynamical instability of host–parasitoid systems. Changes registered in life‐history traits may also affect host–parasitoid dynamics. These changes have not yet been incorporated into host–parasitoid models.
Increases in egg production in multiply mated female bushcrickets Leptophyes punctatissima are not due to substances in the nuptial gift
Authors: Vahed Karim
Published: March 2003

Abstract. 1. A positive effect of the degree of polyandry on egg production is widespread in insects, particularly in species in which the male provides a nuptial gift.

2. This study aimed to determine whether or not this effect is due to females using nutrients from the nuptial gift (spermatophore and spermatophylax) to manufacture more eggs in the bushcricket Leptophyes punctatissima.

3. Females were permitted either a single or a double mating (with two different males) and, in both mating categories, were either prevented from consuming any part of the spermatophore or were permitted to consume the entire spermatophore.

4. Doubly mated females were found to lay over twice as many eggs over a 4‐week period compared with singly mated females. This difference did not appear to be caused by the consumption of extra nuptial gift material: mating was found to have a significant positive effect on the number of eggs laid, while nuptial gift feeding had no effect.
Little known lymantriids of the Russian Far East – potential for movement to other countries of the Pacific region
Authors: Gninenko Yu. I. , Gninenko M. Yu.
Published: March 2003

Four main characters are associated with the potential of Lymantria dispar for international spread in ships moving from the Russian Far East to other Pacific countries: movement to light, wind dispersal of young larvae, length of egg stage, host range of larvae. Other Far Eastern lymantriid species have been scored for these characters on a 1–5 scale to provide an estimate of the risk of such international spread. Lymantria spp. score highest on this scale, and a few other lymantriids have scores indicating that there is a definite risk. Most of the species scored cannot, however, be adequately assessed for all the characters because of lack of information, indicating the need for further research before an adequate pest risk assessment can be done.
Le Prune dwarf ilarvirus en Tunisie: détection par plante test, sérologie et par microscopie électronique et caracterisation biologique d’un isolat d’amandier
Authors: Boulila M.
Published: March 2003

Les résultats préliminaires d’un travail de dépistage des virus des arbres fruitiers dans les vergers et les parcs à bois tunisiens sont présentés dans cet article. Ils concernent le Prune dwarf ilarvirus (PDV). Pour sa détection, des méthodes biologique (plantes indicatrices), sérologique (ELISA) et de microscopie électronique (DIP, ISEM et décoration) ont été utilisées. De plus, une caractérisation biologique d’un isolat d’amandier utilisant de nouveaux cultivars de Cucurbitaceae a été faite; elle constitue une première étape dans une étude plus élargie de typage d’isolats viraux en Tunisie.
Glutathione homeostasis is disturbed in CD4‐positive lymphocytes of HIV‐seropositive individuals
Authors: Van Der Ven  , Blom  , Peters  , Jacobs  , Verver  , Koopmans  , Demacker  , Van Der Meer
Published: March 2003

Background

Numerous in vitro tests have suggested that a disturbed cellular glutathione homeostasis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

Methods

Using validated high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods, glutathione concentrations were determined in plasma and in cytosol of CD4+ lymphocytes and CD14+ cells of HIV‐seropositive individuals and healthy control subjects. We measured concentrations of total glutathione, which is the sum of reduced (GSH) and oxidised (GSSG) glutathione and mixed disulphides of which there are two fractions: soluble mixed disulphides (GSSR) and protein bound glutathione (ProSSG). Also, non‐protein‐bound glutathione was measured, which is the sum of GSH, GSSG and GSSR. Thirty‐five healthy control subjects and 35 HIV‐infected individuals participated in the study.

Results

We found that in CD4+ lymphocytes from HIV‐seropositive individuals, total glutathione levels were significantly higher than in healthy control subjects, whereas the fraction of non‐protein‐bound glutathione was not different. This can only be explained by an increase in the protein‐bound fraction of glutathione indicating the presence of oxidative stress in CD4+ lymphocytes of HIV‐seropositive individuals. Glutathione measurements of cytosol of CD14+ cells and plasma were, however, not compatible with significant increased oxidation. Glutathione precursors (cysteine, cysteinylglycine, glutamylcysteine and homocysteine) and products of lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances) were also measured in plasma and did not differ between healthy control subjects and HIV‐seropositive individuals.

Conclusion

We conclude that the glutathione homeostasis is disturbed in CD4+ lymphocytes of HIV‐seropositive individuals. The glutathione redox dysbalance in CD4+ lymphocytes could be important in the pathogenesis of HIV infection and have implications for therapy.
Monitoring of extracellular matrix metabolism and cross‐linking in tissue, serum and urine of patients with chromoblastomycosis, a chronic skin fibrosis
Authors: Ricard‐Blum  , Hartmann  , Esterre
Published: March 2003

Background

Chromoblastomycosis is a fungal disease leading to a granulomatous reaction associated with dermal fibrosis.

Methods

In an attempt to elucidate the mechanisms leading to improvement in the cutaneous lesions after treatment with terbinafine, a new antifungal drug, we analysed collagen content and cross‐linking before and at the end of the treatment. The turnover of extracellular matrix was monitored for 1 year by following up serum and urinary metabolites.

Results

The serum levels of type III collagen and its N‐terminal propeptide were correlated with the lesion size (P < 0.035) after 4 and 12 months of treatment respectively. After 4 months of treatment, urinary pyridinoline was higher (P = 0.04) in patients whose lesion size was reduced by more than 50% and serum hyaluronan was lower in patients who had lesions active for less than 5 years (P < 0.05). The treatment increased pyridinoline and pentosidine cross‐links in the lesions but significantly reduced the collagen content (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

This is the first demonstration that, in addition to its fungicidal activity, terbinafine acts in vivo as an antifibrotic drug.
Carotid intima–media thickness and plaque in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia mutations and control subjects
Authors: Tonstad  , Joakimsen  , Stensland‐Bugge  , Ose  , Bønaa  , Leren
Published: March 2003

Background

In individuals with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), ultrasonographic measurement of carotid intima–media thickness (IMT) and plaque may provide a non‐invasive assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Methods

We examined carotid artery IMT and its determinants in 79 non‐smoking, normotensive, treated men and women with FH aged 26–46 years, and in 79 non‐smoking, normotensive sex‐, age‐ and body mass index‐matched control subjects. FH was verified by molecular genetic analyses. The underlying mutation in the low‐destiny lipoprotein receptor gene included a splice‐site mutation, mutations predicted or shown to lead to class 2B mutations or other mutations that probably represent class I mutations (null alleles).

Results

The carotid bifurcation and common carotid artery IMT was increased in men with FH compared with control subjects (0.81  ±  0.15 mm vs. 0.74  ±  0.19 mm and 0.61  ±  0.13 mm vs. 0.55  ±  0.14 mm respectively; P  <  0.05). The carotid bifurcation IMT was increased in women with FH compared with control subjects (0.74  ±  0.17 vs. 0.66  ±  0.15; P = 0.005). More subjects with FH had carotid plaque (54% vs. 14%; P  =  0.0001). In multivariate analysis, male gender, level of low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, cholesterol–years score and xanthoma were associated with IMT and plaque in subjects with FH. FH subjects with class 2B mutations had lower cholesterol levels than subjects with mutations belonging to the other classes. They also had a tendency towards a decreased common carotid artery IMT.

Conclusion

These findings confirm the importance of gender, xanthoma and lifetime cholesterol levels in relation to carotid atherosclerosis in FH. Whether the type of mutation causing FH modulates carotid artery IMT and plaque requires further study.
Relationship between obesity and the increased risk of major complications in non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus
Authors: Serrano Rios
Published: March 2003

Obesity and non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) are closely linked. They frequently occur together in patients, and body mass index (BMI) is the strongest risk factor for the development of NIDDM. Both obesity and NIDDM are also major causes of morbidity and mortality from atherogenic macrovascular disease, and they are independent risk factors for coronary heart disease. The risk of developing NIDDM and cardiovascular disease is affected by the regional distribution of body fat. Visceral obesity is associated with a higher degree of risk than peripheral obesity. The metabolic and circulatory changes associated with visceral obesity lead to the development of insulin resistance and increased lipoprotein synthesis. For example, the change in the population profile of lipoproteins in the blood, and alterations in the levels of oxidative stress lead to an increased cardiovascular and macrovascular risk. The changes in lipid metabolism also affect haemorrheological function. They have been linked to decreased fibrinolysis (a serious cardiovascular risk factor) through elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor factor, high blood viscosity, and increased erythrocyte aggregability. Increased BMI also appears to be associated with endothelial dysfunction, which is a major factor in atheroma plaque formation and development of thrombosis. Visceral obesity therefore adds a significant burden to the already increased cardiovascular risk inherent in NIDDM. However, even moderate weight loss may successfully reverse the majority of changes seen with visceral obesity.
Glucose metabolism and the postprandial state
Authors: Lefèbvre  , Scheen
Published: March 2003

Disturbances of postprandial glucose metabolism are now thought to contribute to cardiovascular disease. Postprandial glucose excursions can be affected by a number of factors, such as the types of carbohydrates ingested and the way they are metabolized. In Type 2 diabetes, factors that contribute to excessive postprandial glucose excursions include disruption of insulin secretion, insufficient inhibition of hepatic glucose production and defective glucose storage in muscle. A number of measures may attenuate excessive postprandial blood glucose excursions. These include a diet high in ‘low glycaemic index’ foods and treatment with drugs that improve or restore the hormonal response (e.g. the sulphonylureas and the newer β‐cell mediated insulinotropic drugs such as repaglinide), that improve insulin sensitivity or that delay gastric emptying.
Ageing and hormones
Authors: Roshan  , Nader  , Orlander
Published: March 2003

With ageing, there is a decline in hormone levels, including oestrogen, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and growth hormone. Replacement of these hormones has been investigated and reviewed in this paper. There are still controversies regarding the benefits and risks of replacement therapy.
Moderate red wine consumption in healthy volunteers reduced plasma clearance of apolipoprotein AII
Authors: Gottrand  , Beghin  , Duhal  , Lacroix  , Bonte  , Fruchart  , Luc
Published: March 2003

Background

The mechanisms of the positive relationship between alcohol intake and plasma concentration of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) are still unclear. The present study shows the metabolism modifications of apolipoprotein (apo) AI and apoAII in normolipidaemic healthy volunteers after a period of moderate red wine consumption.

Design

Five non‐smoking male subjects were studied at the end of two consecutive 4‐week periods, one without alcohol and the other with an intake of 50 g per day of alcohol, in random order. The metabolic parameters of apoAI and apoAII in HDL were determined after endogenous labelling using amino acid labelled with stable isotope. Cholesterol, triacylglycerols, HDL‐cholesterol, apoAI, apoAII, LpAI, LpAI:AII were determined in plasma at the end of the two study periods.

Results

Cholesterol and triacylglycerols did not vary significantly during the two periods, whereas HDL‐cholesterol increased from 43.8 to 50.0 mg dL−1 (P < 0.05). ApoAI and apoAII increased significantly (20% and 60% respectively) after the diet was supplemented with alcohol. LpAI:AII increased from 73.8 to 101.6 mg dL−1 (+32%) (P < 0.05), whereas alcohol had no effect on the concentration of LpAI. The alcohol treatment did not significantly alter the metabolism of apoAI. Conversely, the fractional catabolic rate of apoAII decreased significantly by 21% (P < 0.05) with alcohol, whereas the production rate of apoAII tended to increase by 18% (P = 0.08).

Conclusion

The decrease in the fractional catabolic rate of apoAII could lead to an accumulation of apoAII‐containing lipoproteins in plasma and account for the dramatic increase in LpAI:AII observed in the plasma of subjects consuming alcohol.
The effect of hyperglycaemia on cerebral potentials evoked by rapid rectal distension in healthy humans
Authors: Russo A. , Smout A. J. P. M. , Kositchaiwat C. , Rayner C. , Sattawatthamrong Y. , Semmler J. , Horowitz M. , Sun W. M.
Published: March 2003

Background

Acute hyperglycaemia affects the perception of sensations arising from the gastrointestinal tract. The mechanisms responsible for this effect are unknown. Recordings of cerebral evoked potentials (EPs) can be used to assess the integrity of visceral afferent pathways. Our aim was to determine whether hyperglycaemia affects EPs elicited by rectal distension in healthy humans.

Materials and methods

Twelve healthy men, aged 19–31 years, were studied. A manometric catheter, incorporating a rectal balloon, was positioned 7–10 cm from the anal verge. Balloon distensions at both ‘low’ (∼ 20 mL) and ‘high’ (∼ 28 mL) volumes were performed, in a single‐blind, randomized order, during both euglycaemia (4 mmol L−1) and hyperglycaemia (12 mmol L−1). EPs were recorded from a midline scalp electrode (Cz, International 10–20 system) and averaged for each series of 50 distensions. EP latencies and interpeak amplitudes were calculated.

Results

Polyphasic EPs were recorded in all but one subject. Although the blood glucose concentration had no significant effect on the latencies of the EP peaks elicited by either ‘low’‐ or ‘high’‐volume balloon distension, the interpeak amplitude (P1–N1) was greater during hyperglycaemia than during euglycaemia at the ‘low’ balloon volume (6.3 ± 1.2 μV vs. 4.8 ± 1.0 μV, P < 0.05). The blood glucose concentration had no significant effect on the perception of rectal balloon distension.

Conclusions

We conclude that in normal subjects acute hyperglycaemia increases the amplitude of the cerebral EP elicited by rectal balloon distension at low balloon volumes, suggesting that the effects of hyperglycaemia on gastrointestinal sensation may be mediated by central mechanisms.
Immunohistochemical localization of somatostatin receptor sst2A in sarcoid granulomas
Authors: Ten Bokum  , Hofland  , De Jong  , Bouma  , Melief  , Kwekkeboom  , Schonbrunn  , Mooy  , Laman  , J. Lamberts  , Van Hagen
Published: March 2003

Background

In a previous study, we demonstrated the presence of receptors for somatostatin, a neuropeptide with immunoregulatory properties, in the inflammatory lesions of patients suffering from sarcoidosis and other granulomatous diseases by in vivo somatostatin receptor scintigraphy and in vitro autoradiography. However, it was not possible to identify exactly which cell types expressed the somatostatin receptors and which subtype was expressed. In this study we used a polyclonal antiserum directed against the sst2A receptor to identify more accurately the sst2A‐expressing cells in sarcoidosis and other granulomatous diseases.

Design

Tissue biopsies from 12 patients with sarcoidosis, one patient with giant cell arteritis and one patient with Wegener's granulomatosis were studied by immunohistochemistry with the sst2A‐specific antiserum. Two of the sarcoidosis patients were treated with the somatostatin analogue octreotide (100 μg t.i.d.).

Results

Epithelioid cells, multinucleated giant cells and a subset of CD68+ macrophages stained positive for sst2A in 9 out of 12 of the sarcoid biopsies and in both non‐sarcoid granuloma biopsies. Treatment with octreotide resulted in clinical improvement in one out of two treated patients.

Conclusion

The identification of somatostatin receptors on granuloma macrophages, epithelioid cells and giant cells, and the successful treatment of one patient with sarcoidosis with a somatostatin analogue, may offer new possibilities for treatment of granulomatous diseases.
Induction of myocardial nitric oxide synthase by Coxsackie B3 virus in mice
Authors: Robinson  , Zhang  , Bevan  , De Belder  , Moncada  , Martin  , Archard
Published: March 2003

Background

Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression is regulated by cytokines. This study investigated whether Coxsackie group B virus (CVB) myocarditis resulted in an environment suitable for induction of NOS in the murine heart.

Materials and methods

Myocardium was removed from mice infected with CVB3 and from controls. Histology, reverse transcriptase polymerase reaction (RT‐PCR) for murine iNOS, NOS enzyme activity and immunohistochemistry were assessed.

Results

Histology revealed severe myocarditis 7 days after infection with CVB3 but not in controls. RT‐PCR using primers for murine iNOS detected iNOS mRNA in infected mice but not in controls. Calcium‐independent NOS activity increased by day 5 after infection with a peak at day 7. Calcium‐dependent NOS activity was present throughout, with a trend to lower levels during peak calcium‐independent activity. Immunohistochemistry revealed iNOS to be localized to inflammatory cells rather than to myocytes.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the development of calcium‐independent NOS activity and de novo gene transcription for iNOS in the murine myocardium in response to CVB3 infection. The nitric oxide produced at such high output may act at times as part of the immune defence as an antiviral agent and may be toxic to host tissue.
Gallbladder motility and cholesterol crystallization in bile from patients with pigment and cholesterol gallstones
Authors: Portincasa  , Di Ciaula  , Vendemiale  , Palmieri  , Moschetta  , VanBerge‐Henegouwen  , Palasciano
Published: March 2003

Background

Little is known about gallbladder motility in patients with black pigment stones when compared to cholesterol gallstone patients, or about their relationship to biliary composition, crystallization and stone characteristics.

Design

Fasting and postprandial gallbladder volumes were studied by ultrasonography in 49 gallstone patients with pigment (n = 14) or cholesterol (n = 35) stones and 30 healthy controls. After cholecystectomy stone composition, gallbladder wall inflammation, cholesterol saturation index and appearance of platelike cholesterol crystals in bile were evaluated in gallstone patients.

Results

Fasting gallbladder volume was significantly (P < 0.05) increased in cholesterol stone patients (31.7 ± 1.9 mL) but not in pigment stone patients (21.9 ± 3.1 mL), compared to controls (21.0 ± 1.5 mL). Postprandial emptying was delayed in patients (half‐emptying time: 31 ± 2 min, 35 ± 3 min, 24 ± 2 min in cholesterol stone patients, pigment stone patients and controls, respectively, P < 0.05) and incomplete (residual volume: 43.2 ± 2.7%, 40.0 ± 4.3%, 15.8 ± 1.6% min in cholesterol stone patients, pigment stone patients and controls, respectively, P < 0.05). The inflammation of the gallbladder wall was mild or absent in all cases. Biliary cholesterol saturation index was 152.3 ± 8.5% and 92.9 ± 4.8% in patients with cholesterol and pigment stones, respectively (P < 0.01). Whereas cholesterol crystals never appeared during 21 days in biles from patients with pigment stones, crystal observation time in patients with cholesterol gallstone was 5 days (median) and was significantly shorter in patients with multiple (4 days) than in patients with solitary (12 days) cholesterol stones (P = 0.0019).

Conclusions

Patients with black pigment stones who do not have excess cholesterol and do not grow cholesterol crystals in bile have decreased gallbladder emptying, although to a lesser extent than patients with cholesterol stones. Thus, gallbladder stasis is likely to put a subset of subjects at risk for the formation of pigment gallstones, and pathogenic mechanisms need to be further investigated.
Gastrotonometry represents dramatic increase in Pc	o2 after acetazolamide administration
Authors: Taki  , Oogushi  , Tozuka
Published: March 2003

Background

We sought to evaluate the parameters of CO2 transport during the administration of acetazolamide in order to assess the role of carbonic anhydrase in CO2 transport.

Materials and methods

The partial pressure of carbon dioxide in tissue (Pt
co2), arterial blood (Pa
co2) and end‐tidal gas (PET
co2) were monitored to study the correlation between Pa
co2, Pt
co2 and PET
co2 in spontaneously breathing healthy volunteers after the intravenous administration of acetazolamide 6 mg kg−1.

Results

At 60 min after the administration of acetazolamide, the Pt
co2 peaked at more than 60 mmHg, and although it decreased by 90 min, it then remained stable above the baseline value. The Pa
co2 did not change and the PET
co2 decreased significantly. The changes in Pt
co2 were greater than those of either Pa
co2 or PET
co2. The minute ventilation increased progressively throughout the study.

Conclusions

We concluded that gastrotonometry represents a new method for monitoring the dramatic increase in Pt
co2 induced by drugs such as acetazolamide clinically, and that it could be a warning against acetazolamide administration in severe patients without keeping a ventilation and circulation reserve.
Metabolic and inflammatory responses to pulmonary exacerbation in adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Bell  , Bowerman  , Nixon  , Macdonald  , Elborn  , Shale
Published: March 2003

Background

We hypothesized that increased resting energy expenditure in adults with cystic fibrosis was related to chronic inflammation secondary to pulmonary infection and could be modified by treatment of the underlying infection.

Method

To determine the relationship between resting energy expenditure and the inflammatory and metabolic responses, we studied 22 adults with cystic fibrosis and chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection before and after treatment of a respiratory exacerbation. Resting energy expenditure was measured by indirect calorimetry. Spirometry and circulating concentrations of C‐reactive protein, neutrophil elastase α1–antiproteinase complex, catecholamines, non‐esterified fatty acids and glycerol were determined.

Results

The mean (95% confidence interval)% predicted FEV1 was 28.5% (20.6, 36.4) and mean body weight 50.7 kg (47.4, 54.1). Following treatment, 1‐s forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and weight increased, while C‐reactive protein (P < 0.0001) and neutrophil elastase α1‐antiproteinase complex concentrations (P < 0.0001) were reduced. Resting energy expenditure decreased from 6.8 (6.3, 7.2) to 6.25 (5.9, 6.6) MJ day−1 by day 15 (P < 0.001). Changes in resting energy expenditure and C‐reactive protein were related (r = 0.66, P < 0.0001). Weight gain was inversely related to resting energy expenditure (r = 0.43, P = 0.02) and unrelated to energy intake (r = 0.02, P = 0.47). Post‐treatment reduction in norepinephrine was related to changes in heart rate (r = 0.57, P < 0.01), resting energy expenditure (r = 0.51, P = 0.001) and non‐esterified fatty acids (r = 0.42, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

A parallel reduction in the host inflammatory and catabolic responses followed treatment of a respiratory exacerbation and may have contributed to weight gain.
Somatic hypotheses of war syndromes
Authors: Soetekouw  , De Vries  , Van Bergen  , Galama  , Keyser  , Bleijenberg  , Van Der Meer
Published: March 2003

Since the end of the American Civil War, unexplained symptoms in military personnel arising after a war or peace mission have frequently been described. The pattern of symptoms is highly similar for all of the various war syndromes although the conditions of each war or peace mission are widely different. Many somatic hypotheses have been formulated to explain these syndromes; a considerable proportion of them are already outdated. In the last few years much attention has been given to Gulf War Syndrome and to unexplained symptoms of military personnel who were sent to Cambodia, Rwanda, Burundi, Zaire, or the former Yugoslavia. In this review the symptoms of war syndromes will be considered in more detail and the suggested somatic explanations will be discussed. During the last decade the following somatic causes have been suggested as possible explanations for these symptoms: (persistent) infection, abnormal immune response, administration of multiple vaccinations within a short period of time, use of malaria chemoprophylaxis, neurological abnormalities, exposure to toxicological substances and environmental factors. The various investigations performed to study these hypotheses are discussed. The fact that bias regularly occurs in the course of these investigations is pointed out. For the future, a reliable investigation of a war syndrome should be a prospective multidisciplinary study and should distinguish between causative and sustaining factors.
The effect of apolipoprotein B xbaI polymorphism on plasma lipid response to dietary fat
Authors: López‐Miranda  , Marín  , Castro  , Gómez  , González‐Amieva  , Paz  , Bravo  , Ordovas  , Jimenez‐Pereperez  , Pérez‐Jiménez
Published: March 2003

Background and aims

Lipid response to dietary fat and cholesterol is, to a large extent, genetically controlled. Apolipoprotein B (apo B) plays a dominant role in cholesterol homeostasis. Several polymorphic sites within or adjacent to the gene locus for apo B have been detected. The X+ allele of the XbaI restriction fragment polymorphism of the apo B gene has been found to be associated with higher serum cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels. In order to study the influence of this mutation on the plasma lipid response in diets of varying fat content, 72 healthy male subjects were studied, 21 X− X− (X−) and 51 X+ (X+ X− or X+ X+).

Methods and results

These subjects followed three consecutive 28‐day diet periods: one rich in saturated fats (SAT diet; 38% fat, 20% saturated); a National Cholesterol Education Program type I diet (NCEP‐I diet) (28% fats, < 10% saturated); and a third monounsaturated (MUFA diet)(38% fats, 22% monounsaturated). The different genotypes can be observed to have significant effects on total and LDL cholesterol concentrations (P < 0.017). X+ individuals had higher levels of total and LDL cholesterol after the consumption of a SAT diet (P < 0.012; P < 0.006, respectively), NCEP diet (P < 0.060; P < 0.054, respectively) and MUFA diet (P < 0.022; P < 0.042, respectively) in comparison with X− individuals. A significant interaction between genotypes and dietary effects was observed for diet‐induced changes in plasma triglycerides (P < 0.032). Significant decreases in the absolute values of triglyceride concentrations (−0.18 mmol L−1, P < 0.024) were noted in the X− subjects after the high intake of a MUFA diet, while no significant differences were observed in the X+ individuals (0.006 mmol L−1, P < 0.858).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the total triglyceride response to diet is influenced by the apo B XbaI polymorphism.
Energy expenditure in chronic alcohol abuse
Authors: Levine  , Harris  , Morgan
Published: March 2003

Background

In healthy subjects, alcohol decreases lipid oxidation favouring fat deposition. However, individuals who chronically abuse alcohol are not obese. To investigate this paradox, we measured energy expenditure (EE) and fuel utilization in chronic alcohol abusers in relation to their drinking behaviour.

Methods

Resting and postprandial EE and nonprotein respiratory quotient (NPRQ) were measured using indirect calorimetry, in 36 alcohol abusers [mean (± SE) age 42 ± 2 years; weight 67 ± 2 kg; 21 with steatosis, eight with hepatitis; seven with cirrhosis] and in 36 gender‐, age‐ and weight‐matched healthy controls. Alcoholic patients were re‐evaluated either after 14 days (n = 14) or on days 2, 4, 6, 8, 14 and 42 (n = 6) after abstinence.

Results

When alcoholics were compared to healthy controls, mean energy intake was greater, 15 ± 1 MJ day−1 (38 ± 2% from alcohol) cf. 9 ± 1 MJ day−1 (P < 0.001), resting EE increased, 82 ± 2 cf. 65 ± 2 W (P < 0.001) and NPRQ decreased, 0.75 ± 0.02 cf. 0.82 ± 0.01 (P < 0.001). The postprandial increases in EE and NPRQ were of similar magnitude in both groups. Abstinence from alcohol for 14 days was accompanied by reduced energy intake, 16 ± 1 cf. 11 ± 1 MJ day−1 (P < 0.005) and decreased resting EE, 84 ± 5 cf. 73 ± 4 W (P < 0.05). The decrease in resting EE consistently occurred 4 days after abstinence from alcohol.

Conclusions

Chronic alcohol abuse is associated with energy wasting and inhibition of adipose tissue accumulation. This may explain why alcoholics are not obese despite high total energy intakes.
Differentiation and regulation of the corticotropic pituitary cell
Authors: Petersenn S. , Schulte H. M.
Published: March 2003

A number of primary diseases of the pituitary with adrenocorticotropin dysregulation have been recognized. A few genetic defects have been identified as causes of secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Much less is known about the ontogeny of corticotrophic tumours leading to a hypercorticolaemic state. To improve the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders, a better understanding of the mechanisms of corticotrophic pituitary cell differentiation and regulation is of clear interest. Studies using molecular tools have enhanced our knowledge over recent years, and a few reports of considerable relevance are summarized in this review.
Predictors of diabetic renal lesions in type 2 diabetes associated with microalbuminuria
Authors: Kanauchi M. , Dohi K.
Published: March 2003

Not all type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria show the same pattern of renal tissue injury, and heterogeneity in renal lesions has been reported. We determine clinical and laboratory findings that predict the presence of typical diabetic glomerulosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria.

Twenty‐three type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria who underwent renal biopsy were investigated. Two patterns of renal biopsy findings were defined as type D (typical diabetic glomerulosclerosis) and type A (atherosclerotic nephropathy without evidence of diabetic glomerulopathy).

Thirteen patients (57%) were classified as type D, and 10 (43%) as type A. In stepwise multiple regression analysis, severity of diabetic retinopathy (P = 0·0006), relatively high urinary N‐acetyl‐beta‐D‐glucosaminidase activity (P = 0·0013), and relatively low serum creatinine concentration (P = 0·0303) significantly predicted type D findings as opposed to type A (R2 = 0·734, P < 0·001).

Certain patient characteristics can predict the presence of typical diabetic glomerulosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria.
Acute inhibitory effect of alcohol on fibrinolysis
Authors: Van De Wiel A. , Van Golde P. M. , Kraaijenhagen R. J. , Von Dem Borne P. A. K. , Bouma B. N. , Hart H. C.
Published: March 2003

In contrast to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) with light to moderate alcohol consumption, heavy alcohol intake and binge drinking are associated with increased cardiovascular mortality. Alcohol has an acute and profound effect on fibrinolysis that may be relevant to the pathogenesis of CHD.

The short‐term effects of a low (two glasses, 250 mL, 20 g ethanol) and a high (six glasses, 750 mL, 60 g ethanol) intake of red wine were studied in male volunteers and compared to the intake of mineral water. To find a threshold for inhibition of fibrinolysis and to study a binge effect, a second experiment was performed comparing the intake of four (500 mL, 40 g ethanol) and eight (1000 mL, 80 g ethanol) glasses of red wine with mineral water. Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), tissue‐type plasminogen activator (t‐PA), plasmin–antiplasmin (PAP) complexes and clot lysis time were measured.

In contrast to the circadian rhythm with an enhanced fibrinolysis in the evening that was found in the mineral water group, an intake above four glasses of wine inhibited fibrinolysis significantly. After the intake of two glasses no significant disturbance of the circadian rhythm was observed. Five hours after the consumption of six glasses of wine, a dramatic increase occurred of PAI‐1 antigen (77 ± 42 μg L−1 vs. − 5 ± 10 μg L−1 in the mineral water controls; P < 0·001) and PAI‐1 activity (27 ± 15 U mL−1 vs. − 2 ± 3 U mL−1 in mineral water controls; P < 0·001). Despite a rise in t‐PA antigen, t‐PA activity dropped (− 0·5 ± 0·2 U mL−1 vs. − 0·1 ± 0·2 in controls; P < 0·001) as did PAP complexes (− 103 ± 55 μg L−1 vs. − 26 ± 57 μg L−1 in controls; P < 0·01). After the consumption of eight glasses of wine, the clot lysis assay indicated continued inhibition of fibrinolysis the following morning.

Drinking a large amount of alcohol in the evening results in an acute inhibition of fibrinolysis, persisting the following morning. This may predispose to accelerated atherosclerosis and set the stage for thrombotic coronary events, explaining the higher cardiovascular mortality risk in binge drinkers.
Platelet‐associated and secreted PAF‐acetylhydrolase activity in patients with stable angina: sequential changes of the enzyme activity after angioplasty
Authors: Goudevenos J. , Tselepis A. D. , Vini M. P. , Michalis L. , Tsoukatos D. C. , Elisaf M. , Ninio E. , Sideris D. A.
Published: March 2003

Background

Platelet‐activating factor (PAF), the lipid mediator of inflammation and potent platelet agonist, can be hydrolysed and inactivated by PAF‐acetylhydrolase (PAF‐AH). We investigated the PAF‐AH activity in relation to PAF formation in platelets from patients with stable angina undergoing elective percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA).

Twenty‐seven patients with stable angina, undergoing PTCA, and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were studied. The platelet‐associated and secreted PAF‐AH activity was measured, before PTCA, as well as at 4 h, 48 h and 6 months afterwards. PAF formation by thrombin‐stimulated platelets and the platelet aggregation responses to PAF and ADP were also determined.

Results

The PAF‐AH activity secreted by thrombin‐stimulated platelets before PTCA (in pmol/109 cells/h) was significantly higher compared to controls (892 ± 222 vs. 624 ± 144, P < 0·001). The enzyme activity was not altered at 4 h after PTCA, but was significantly increased at 48 h (1284 ± 312, P < 0·005) to return to the levels observed in the control group 6 months afterwards. Detectable levels of PAF in thrombin‐stimulated platelets were found only at 6 months after PTCA. Furthermore, the cell‐associated enzyme activity in resting platelets before PTCA was significantly lower compared with controls. Unlike in controls, the platelet‐associated enzyme activity in the patient group was not increased after stimulation with thrombin and it was associated by a platelet hyperaggregability to PAF. Both the intact cell‐associated activity and the platelet hyper‐reactivity to PAF were restored at 6 months after PTCA.

Conclusions

Alterations in the platelet PAF‐AH activity, which affect the PAF formation in thrombin‐stimulated platelets and are associated by an increased aggregatory response to PAF, are observed in patients with stable angina and are completely restored after PTCA.
The 13C/2H‐glucose test for determination of small intestinal lactase activity
Authors: Vonk R. J. , Stellaard F. , Priebe M. G. , Koetse H. A. , Hagedoorn R. E. , De Bruijn S. , Elzinga H. , Lenoir‐Wijnkoop I. , Antoine J.‐M.
Published: March 2003

To diagnose hypolactasia, determination of lactase enzyme activity in small intestinal biopsy material is considered to be the golden standard. Because of its strongly invasive character and the sampling problems, alternative methods have been looked for.

We analysed the 13C‐glucose response in serum after consumption of 25 g of naturally enriched 13C‐lactose. As an internal standard, 0·5 g of 2H‐glucose was added and the 2H‐glucose response in serum was measured simultaneously. The studies were performed in healthy volunteers with a background of genetically determined lactase nonpersistence (n = 12; low lactase activity) and lactase persistence (n = 27; high lactase activity). The results were compared with those of the lactose hydrogen breath test, the lactose 13CO2 breath test and the previously described 13C‐lactose digestion test.

After consumption of 13C‐lactose and 2H‐glucose, the mean ratio 13C‐glucose/2H‐glucose concentration in serum at 45–75 min was 0·26 ± 0·09 in the low lactase activity group and 0·93 ± 0·17 in the high lactase activity group (P < 0·01). Threshold of the ratio between digesters and maldigesters was calculated as 0·46. Accuracy of the new test was superior to all other tests.

We conclude that the 13C/2H‐glucose test has the potential of determining the small intestinal lactase activity in vivo and of estimating the amount of lactose which is digested in the small intestine.
IgG subclasses of anti Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Oshitani N. , Hato F. , Jinno Y. , Sawa Y. , Nakamura S. , Matsumoto T. , Seki S. , Kitagawa S. , Arakawa T.
Published: March 2003

Elevation of serum anti Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA) has been reported in patients with Crohn's disease. We analysed the subclasses of Immunoglobulin (Ig) G reaction in ASCA in sera from patients with inflammatory bowel disease, healthy controls, and patients with intestinal Behçet's disease.

Serum samples were obtained from 29 patients with Crohn's disease, 30 patients with ulcerative colitis, 7 patients with intestinal Behçet's disease, and 12 healthy controls. Serum IgG subclasses IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 of ASCA were analysed using ELISA.

IgG4 ASCA was significantly increased in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. In patients with intestinal Behçet's disease, IgG1, IgG3, and IgG4 ASCA were increased.

Differential responses, in terms of subclasses in ASCA, were found in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and patients with intestinal Behçet's disease, which may represent different pathophysiologies of these intestinal inflammatory diseases.
Inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis by aminoguanidine increases intestinal damage in the acute phase of rat TNB‐colitis
Authors: Dikopoulos N. , Nüssler A. K. , Liptay S. , Bachem M. , Reinshagen M. , Stiegler M. , Schmid R. M. , Adler G. , Weidenbach H.
Published: March 2003

The role of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is controversially discussed. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of NO inhibition in the acute phase of rat 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNB)‐colitis. To inhibit NO synthesis we used aminoguanidine (AG) as a selective inhibitor of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).

TNB‐colitis was induced in rats with and without pretreatment with AG (200 mg kg−1 body weight in the drinking water). The severity of colitis was observed over a period of 7 days.

On days 1 and 2, AG reduced concentrations of plasma nitrate and nitrite as well as of portal 6‐keto‐prostaglandin 1α. AG pretreatment increased colonic damage and inflammatory response, assessed by colonic myeloperoxidase and serum lactate dehydrogenase activity, macroscopic damage score, tumour necrosis factor‐α concentration in stool and colonic glutathione content. The AG‐treated group showed a higher and prolonged nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB)/Rel binding activity in the colon.

We conclude that NOS inhibition by AG is not beneficial in acute intestinal inflammation. With regard to appropriate therapeutic strategies, NF‐κB/Rel activation might be a more suitable target.
New drug combinations for the treatment of murine AIDS and macrophage protection
Authors: Fraternale A. , Casabianca A. , Tonelli A. , Chiarantini L. , Brandi G. , Magnani M.
Published: March 2003

The failure of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) is mainly due to the existence of latent infected reservoirs, such as macrophages and resting CD4+ T cells. In this paper, we report the results that we obtained in a murine model of AIDS by alternating the administration of the lympholitic drug 2‐Fluoro‐ara‐AMP (Fludarabine) to eliminate the infected cells, with that of Azidothymidine (AZT) plus reduced glutathione (GSH) encapsulated in erythrocytes, to protect lymphocytes and macrophages not yet infected, respectively.

Two groups of infected mice were treated as follows: one group was treated by alternating the administration of Fludarabine and AZT (treatment A), while the other group received the same treatment plus GSH‐loaded erythrocytes given with AZT (treatment A + L–RBC). Fludarabine was administered intraperitoneally, AZT in the drinking water and GSH was encapsulated in erythrocytes by a procedure of hypotonic dialysis and isotonic resealing.

The results obtained show that GSH‐loaded erythrocytes provide additive effects in all the parameters examined.

Alternation of a lympholitic drug and antiretroviral drug is effective in reducing the progression of murine AIDS. Addition of a system to protect macrophages provides additive effects in almost all the parameters considered, confirming that combination therapies aimed at protecting different infectable cell compartments are better than treatments protecting mainly lymphocytes.