bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mouse model of gastric infection with cytotoxin‐expressing strain of Helicobacter pylori in studying of pathogenesis of chronic gastric ulcer
Authors: KONTUREK PETER C , BRZOZOWSKI TOMASZ , KONTUREK STANISLAW J , KARCZEWSKA ELZBIETA , PAJDO ROBERT , GHIARA PAOLO , HAHN ECKHART G
Published: March 2014

Abstract Helicobacter pylori is a major risk factor for peptic ulcer, but studies on the role of H. pylori infection in gastric pathology are limited due to lack of convenient models resembling H. pylori infection in humans. We studied the effects of inoculation of conventional BALB/c mice with a toxigenic (cytotoxin associated gene A (cagA)+ and vacuolating cytotoxin gene A (vacA+) H. pylori strain on the course of healing of gastric ulcers. Following inoculation of toxigenic H. pylori or vehicle, gastric ulcers were produced in mice, which were then killed either at day 0 or after 2, 4, 7, 14 or 28 days and ulcer area and gastric blood flow (GBF) were determined. Gastric secretions from mice with chronic gastric fistulae were studied before and after inoculation with toxigenic H. pylori or vehicle (saline). The area (7 mm2) of ulcers in control mice decreased gradually and disappeared almost completely after 14 or 28 days. The ulcers in H. pylori‐infected mice were present at all test days, showing a larger area than in vehicle control animals. The GBF in control mice rose gradually with decreasing ulcer size, being significantly higher at the ulcer margin than the ulcer crater. In contrast, the GBF in H. pylori‐infected mice was significantly lower at the ulcer area than that in the vehicle controls but, again, the GBF at the ulcer margin was always higher than at the ulcer crater. Gastric acid output was reduced by more than 50% immediately after H. pylori inoculation and was accompanied by a significant increase in plasma gastrin release and a fall in gastric luminal somatostatin content. These secretory changes persisted at all test days. Oedema/congestion of surface epithelium appeared after 7 days and mucosal inflammatory infiltration appeared after 14 days, to further increase after 28 days, upon the induction of ulcer. Plasma interleukin (IL)‐Iß and IL‐12 were significantly elevated above the initial values compared with controls. Conventional mice with gastric ulcers can be successfully infected with an H. pylori strain expressing cagA and vacA cytotoxin and this infection markedly delays healing of the ulcers, probably due to the fall in GBF in the ulcer area, mucosal inflammation, cytokine release and impairment of the gastrin‐somatostatin link.
Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs that cause relatively little gastric damage
Authors: TAVARES IGNATIUS A , BENNETT ALAN
Published: March 2014

Abstract Gastrointestinal damage by non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID), which is common and sometimes fatal, involves inhibition of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. The damage is less with NSAID that inhibit inflammatory cyclo‐oxygenase (COX)‐2 but not gastroprotective COX‐1. We have compared nimesulide and acemetacin, two NSAID that cause relatively little gastric damage, with indomethacin for effects on purified COX‐1 and COX‐2. The results are related to findings on human gastric mucosa and leucocytes. With purified COX‐1, inhibition was absent with nimesulide, weak with acemetacin (inhibitory concentration of 50% [IC50] 85 m̈mol/L), and potent with indomethacin (IC50 0.6 m̈mol/L). Inhibition of purified COX‐2 occurred with nimesulide and indomethacin (IC50 values 90 and 4.1 m̈mol/L, respectively) but not acemetacin. All results with nimesulide are consistent with a preferential block of COX‐2 that contributes to relatively little gastric damage in patients. However, our previous report on acemetacin needs re‐evaluation. Acemetacin did not inhibit sheep COX‐2 and only weakly inhibited COX‐1. Our previous leucocyte (COX‐2) experiments required 24 h incubation, and hydrolysis of acemetacin to indomethacin presumably accounted for the COX‐2 inhibition. In the few minutes of enzyme incubation, virtually no hydrolysis would be expected. Acemetacin itself presumably causes relatively little gastric damage mainly because it only weakly inhibits COX‐1.
Gastric adaptation to aspirin and Helicobacter pylori infection in man
Authors: KONTUREK JAN , KONTUREK STANISLAW , DEMBINSKI ARTUR , DOMSCHKE WOLFRAM
Published: March 2014

Abstract The relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and aspirin (ASA)‐induced gastropathy and gastric adaptation to ASA remains unclear. We compared gastric damage and adaptation after repeated exposures to ASA in the same subjects without H. pylori infection and those infected by H. pylori before and after eradication of this H. pylori. Twenty‐four volunteers in two groups (A and B), without H. pylori infection (group A) and with H. pylori infection (group B) before and after H. pylori eradication, were given ASA 2 g/day or placebo for 14 days. Mucosal damage was evaluated by endoscopy and gastric microbleeding; mucosal prostaglandin (PG) E2 generation and luminal transforming growth factor (TGF)α were determined on days 0,3,7 and 14 of the ASA course. In all subjects, ASA‐induced gastric damage reached a maximum on day 3. In H. pylori‐positive subjects this damage was maintained at a similar level up to the 14th day of observation. Following H. pylori eradication, the damage was significantly lessened at day 14, as revealed by both endoscopy and microbleeding, and was accompanied by increased mucosal release of TGFα. Prostaglandin E2 generation was significantly higher in H. pylori‐positive subjects than after H. pylori eradication, but ASA treatment resulted in greater than 90% reduction of this generation independent of H. pylori status. Gastric adaptation to ASA is impaired in H. pylori‐positive subjects but eradication of this bacterium restores this process.
The novel histamine H2 receptor antagonist FRG‐8813 prevents delay of wound repair induced by hydrogen peroxide in a rabbit gastric epithelial cell system
Authors: SATO NOBUHIRO , WATANABE SUMIO , WANG XIAN‐EN , OSADA TARO , TANAKA HIROSHI , ITATSU TOMOKO , MIYATA RYUKO , WATANABE KENICHI , SATO KENJI , NAKAJIMA MIKAKO , YAMASHINA SYUNPEI , MATSUZAKI KENICHIRO , MIWA HIROTO
Published: March 2014

Abstract The effects of a novel histamine H2 receptor antagonist (FRG‐8813) on the restoration process of gastric epithelial wounds were assessed using an in vitro wound healing model. FRG‐8813 (1, 10 mol/L) was added to a complete confluent monolayer cell sheet after artificial wounding. The restoration process was analysed by a time‐lapse video system and cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis were assessed. Hydrogen peroxide (1, 3 mmol/L) inhibited restoration after wounding by suppressing cell migration and proliferation and induced epithelial cell apoptosis around the wound. The addition of FRG‐8813 abolished the hydrogen peroxide‐induced retardation and prevented apoptosis, although FRG‐8813 itself did not enhance wound healing. FRG‐8813 may act as a radical scavenger as well as having an anti‐secretory action and may have favourable effects on peptic ulcer healing.
Prostaglandin E‐type receptor subtypes and gastroduodenal bicarbonate secretion in rats
Authors: TAKEUCHI KOJI , YAGI KOJI , KITAMURA MOTOHIRO , KUBOMI MASAFUMI , TASHIMA KIM‐IHITO
Published: March 2014

Abstract We investigated the relationship between prostaglandin E‐type receptor (EP receptor) subtypes and gastroduodenal HCO3‐ secretion in rats. Under urethane anaesthesia, a stomach mounted in an ex vivo chamber or a proximal duodenal loop was perfused with saline and the HCO3‐ secretion was measured at pH 7.0 using a pH‐stat method and by adding 10 mmol/L HCl. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2, i.V.) increased HCO3‐ secretion in both the stomach and duodenum; this action was verapamil sensitive and only in the duodenum was potentiated by isobutylmethyl xanthine (IBMX). Duodenal HCO3‐ secretion was also stimulated by both sulprostone (EP1/EP3 agonist), enprostil (EP1/EP3 agonist), misoprostol (EP2/EP3 agonist), 11‐deoxy PGE1 (EP3/EP4 agonist) and ONO‐NT‐012 (EP3 agonist), but was not affected by either butaprost (EP2 agonist) or 17‐phenyl‐ω‐trinor‐PGE2 (EP1 agonist). In contrast, gastric HCO3‐ secretion was stimulated by sulprostone, enprostil and 17‐phenyl‐ω‐trinor‐PGE2, but not by misoprostol, butaprost, 11‐deoxy PGE1 or ONO‐NT‐012. The EP1 antagonist SC‐51089 inhibited the HCO3‐ stimulatory action of sulprostone in the stomach but not in the duodenum. Isobutylmethyl xanthine potentiated the HCO3‐ response to sulprostone in the duodenum, while verapamil reduced the response in both the stomach and duodenum. These results suggest that PGE2 stimulates HCO3‐ secretion via different EP receptor subtypes in the stomach and duodenum: in the former the EP1 receptors linked to Ca2+ and in the latter, the EP3 receptors coupled with both cAMP and Ca2+.
Early phase microvascular interactions in rat jejunum between nitric oxide and vasopressin following indomethacin administration
Authors: LÁSZLOA FERENC , WHITTLE BRENDAN JR
Published: March 2014

Abstract The involvement of endogenous vasopressin in the actions of indomethacin following the concurrent administration of the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME), on acute intestinal microvascular permeability has been investigated in the rat. Administration of indomethacin (10mg/kg, s.c.) or L‐NAME (10mg/kg, s.c.) alone did not affect jejunal and ileal vascular permeability after 1 h, as determined by the leakage of radiolabelled serum albumin. In contrast, when indomethacin (10mg/kg, s.c.) was injected concurrently with L‐NAME (2‐10mg/kg, s.c), significant dose‐dependent plasma leakage occurred in the jejunum. Pretreatment with l‐arginine (300 mg/kg s.c.) 15 min prior to l‐NAME prevented these changes in microvascular permeability. Moreover, pretreatment with the vasopressin pressor‐receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)AVP (0.01–0.2m̈g/kg, s.c.) dose‐dependently attenuated such damage. These findings suggest that following indomethacin administration, the early inhibition of NO synthase leads to acute microvascular injury involving vasopressin in the rat jejunum. This suggests a protective role of NO, formed by constitutive NO synthase, counteracting effectively the deleterious actions of endogenous vasopressin.
Regulation of intestinal apolipoprotein A‐IV synthesis
Authors: TSO P , YAO L , ZHENG S , EE L
Published: March 2014

Abstract Apolipoprotein (apo) A‐IV is a protein synthesized, in humans, only by the small intestine. It has a molecular weight of 46 000 Da. This paper summarizes the evidence supporting its role as a satiety factor following the ingestion of fat. This function of apo A‐IV is unique and not shared by other apolipoproteins, including apo A‐I. The satiety effect of apo A‐IV is centrally mediated. The mechanism of how apo A‐IV inhibits food intake is not clear but it probably acts by inhibiting both gastric acid secretion as well as gastric motility. Lipid absorption stimulates apo A‐IV synthesis and secretion by the jejunum. In addition to lipid feeding, there is evidence that a factor which is released as a result of lipid absorption in the distal small intestine also stimulates the synthesis and release of apo A‐IV by the jejunum. This factor is probably PYY.
New approach in diagnosis of bile duct disease with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: CHAN YU LEUNG
Published: March 2014

Abstract Advances in technology have made possible the clinical application of magnetic resonance cholangiography, endoscopic, intra‐operative and laparoscopic ultrasound in the study of the biliary tree, in addition to conventional magnetic resonance imaging and transabdominal ultrasound. The role of the conventional, as well as the newer techniques, in the diagnosis of bile duct disease and the limitations and pros and cons of each technique, will be the subject of the present discussion.
Tropical calcific pancreatitis
Authors: TANDON RAKESH K
Published: March 2014

Abstract Tropical calcific pancreatitis is a special type of chronic pancreatitis that has features quite different from those of alcoholic pancreatitis and is seen almost exclusively in tropical countries. It is characterized by recurrent severe pain in the abdomen, insulin‐requiring but ketosis‐resistant diabetes and large pancreatic calculi in malnourished male adolescents. The clinical course of tropical calcific pancreatitis is protracted with malnutrition, recurrent infections and poorly controlled diabetes. Pancreatic cancer may complicate the natural course in up to 10% of cases. However, in the community a much milder form of the disease occurs with a female preponderance and a prevalence of 0.13% or one in 793. Malnutrition with deficiency of proteins and micronutrients with antioxidant properties and food‐based toxins, such as cassava, which contain cyanogenic glycosides have been suspected as possible aetiological factors. Impaired immune response, a presumed infection (possibly viral) and genetic susceptibility are some of the other factors suspected in the aetiopathogenesis of this disease. Besides controlling diabetes with insulin, relief from pain is obtained by the administration of analgesics and pancreatic enzymes and, in severe cases, by performing endoscopic or surgical decompression of dilated pancreatic ducts with removal of pancreatic calculi.
Verocytotoxin‐producing Escherichia coli infection: The Hong Kong experience
Authors: WONG SSY , YAM WC , LEUNG PHM , WOO PCY , YUEN KY
Published: March 2014

Abstract Infection by verocytotoxin‐producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) is prevalent in many parts of the world but relatively uncommon in Asia, except Japan. A territory wide screening for VTEC (April to August 1996) in diarrhoeal stool samples sent to six hospital microbiology laboratories in Hong Kong revealed only four isolates of VTEC and one isolate of E. coli O157:NM in 1003 specimens (incidence 0.5%). Two isolates carrying the verocytotoxin (VT) genes belonged to the O157:H7 serotype while the other two were non‐O157. One non‐toxigenic E. coli O157:NM was also isolated. All isolates positive for VT genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were also positive for the Vero toxin assayed by the Vero cell culture. The 97 kDa eaeA outer membrane protein gene and 60 MDa fimbrial plasmid pcVD419 were present only in the two O157:H7 isolates. All patients presented with uncomplicated watery diarrhoea; no one suffered from haemorrhagic colitis or the haemolytic uraemic syndrome. All patients recovered uneventfully without antibiotic treatment. Although VTEC infection is still uncommon in Hong Kong, continued surveillance is essential to prevent future outbreaks.
Replicative efficiency and pathogenicity of hepatitis B virus e‐minus precore variant
Authors: WEN YU‐MEI , MA ZHANG‐MEI , TU G , ZHAI WEI‐RONG , HE LI‐FANG , YAO XIN
Published: March 2014

Abstract To study the replicative efficiency and pathogenicity of hepatitis B virus precore variant (A1896), anti‐hepatitis B virus e antigen (HBe) titre was studied in naturally occurring wild‐type virus infection, A1896 variant infection and dual infection. Higher titre of anti‐HBe was found in patients with no virus replication and in patients coinfected with the wild‐type virus and A1896 variant, which suggest that anti‐HBe may either act as an inhibitor of virus replication or as selective pressure for the A1896 variant. Three site‐directed mutants were constructed in the duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) precore region. A frame shift in the encapsidation signal region abolished replication of DHBV; mutation in the initiation codon of the precore and mutation to generate a termination codon at the distal region of the precore resulted in decreased replication in the duck model. More significant pathological changes were found in the liver tissues of ducks infected with the mutant which mimicked the HBV A1896 variant.
Multimodality treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: TANG ZHAO‐YOU , ZHOU XIN‐DA , MA ZENG‐CHEN , WU ZHI‐QUAN , FAN JIA , LIN ZHI‐YING , LU JI‐ZHEN , LIU KANG‐DA , YE SHENG‐LONG , YANG BING‐HUI
Published: March 2014

Abstract By 1996, 2898 patients with pathologically proven hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) had been treated at the Liver Cancer Institute of Shanghai Medical University. The 5 year survival in the entire series was 36.2%, being increased from 4.8% in 1958–70, 12.2% in 1971–83, to 50.5% in 1984–96 and 274 patients had survived more than 5 years. The increase in the survival rate could be attributed to the decreasing mean tumour diameter (11.7, 10.5 and 9.5 cm, respectively) and multimodality treatment. In addition to small HCC resection (5 year survival 64.9%, n = 735) and large HCC resection (5 year survival 37.4%, n = 1050), the following deserves to be mentioned. First, the 5 year survival of unresectable HCC treated by palliative surgery increased from 0% to 7.2% to 20.0%, which was related to the increase in use of multimodality treatment, particularly in those followed by second‐stage resection. Second, cytoreduction and sequential resection is a new field with a significant potential in the treatment of localized unresectable HCC in a cirrhotic liver. Cytoreduction can be achieved by surgery, such as hepatic artery ligation, cannulation, cryosurgery and their combination, and followed by intrahepatic arterial chemoembolization, targeting therapy or regional radiotherapy. Ninety of 647 patients with unresectable HCC so treated had marked shrinkage of tumour and received second‐stage resection; the 5 year survival was 71.4%. Third, non‐surgical cytoreduction was mainly achieved by transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE); for 70 patients with second‐stage resection following TACE, the 5 year survival was 56.0%. Finally, re‐resection of subclinical recurrence of tumour after curative HCC resection was performed in 155 patients; the 5 year survival calculated from the first resection was 50.9%, which played an important role in increasing the 5 year survival in the resection group (from 13.0% to 29.5% to 56.2%). It is concluded that multimodality treatment with combined and sequential use of different modalities and repeated use of some modalities is of substantial benefit for localized unresectable HCC.
Metabolic Appraisal of the Effects of Dietary Modification on Hypersensitive Bladder Symptoms
Authors: GILLESPIE LARRIAN
Published: March 2014

Summary— The concentration of certain metabolites and amino acids appears to be changed in patients with the painful bladder syndrome interstitial cystitis. A study of the metabolism of the arylalkylamines (tryptophan, tyrosine, tyramine, phenylalanine) was carried out in 250 patients (237 females, 13 males), revealing an inability to synthesise normal amounts of serotonin and MHPG, a noradrenaline metabolite. Furthermore, the absence of ammonia and tryptophan in urine confirmed the presence of a membrane leak. Dietary restriction lessened the symptoms but did not alter specific abnormalities in dopamine metabolism. Dietary management offers a cost‐effective therapeutic approach.
Urinary Fibronectin in Diagnosis and Follow‐up of Patients with Urinary Bladder Cancer
Authors: MALMSTRÖM P.‐U. , LARSSON A. , JOHANSSON S.
Published: March 2014

Summary— The levels of fibronectin in urine from 106 patients with urinary bladder cancer, from 13 patients with benign urological disease and from 24 healthy control individuals were determined by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The fibronectin levels in urine from patients with bladder cancer were higher than in patients with benign urothelial disease and in healthy controls. In 9 patients with bladder cancer, sampling was done both pre‐ and post‐operatively. In these cases the fibronectin levels after operation were significantly lower than they had been before. Among 14 patients treated with BCG intravesically for superficial bladder tumours, those with complete remission of disease had less urinary fibronectin than those who did not respond to treatment. The data suggest that urinary fibronectin may be a useful marker for detecting urinary bladder cancer and for selecting patients for BCG treatment.
Post‐operative Retention Associated with Acute Prostatic Infarction
Authors: STRACHAN J. R. , CORBISHLEY CATHERINE M. , SHEARER R. J.
Published: March 2014

Summary— Twenty‐one patients with post‐operative retention following unassociated surgery and requiring transurethral resection of the prostate were compared with patients with acute retention (control group). Histological evidence of acute prostatic infarction was significantly increased in the post‐operative retention group. Prolonged operative hypotension was associated with acute prostatic infarction, as were smoking and pre‐existing cardiovascular disease.
Antenatal Diagnosis of Posterior Urethral Valves
Authors: DINNEEN M. D. , DHILLON H. K. , WARD H. C. , DUFFY P. G. , RANSLEY P. G.
Published: March 2014

Summary— The antenatal histories of 42 patients with posterior urethral valves diagnosed between June 1987 and September 1990 were reviewed. The mothers of all patients had at least one ultrasound scan during pregnancy. Despite this, fetal uropathy was diagnosed in only 19 cases. The remaining 23 undiagnosed children presented acutely, all within the first 6 months of life. In 33 of 36 pregnancies scanned before 24 weeks' gestation, fetal urological pathology was undetected. Mean plasma creatinine (pCr) at presentation in the group antenatally diagnosed was 139 μmol/l and in those presenting acutely was 238 μmol/l. All pCr analysed were taken after at least 48 h of life. Renal function as measured by follow‐up pCr was better in the antenatally diagnosed group during the first year of life. It would appear that a routine second ultrasound scan at 26 weeks' gestation or later would reveal more cases of posterior urethral valves and this information may improve the outcome in terms of renal function.
Sacral neuromodulation for treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction
Authors: HOHENFELLNER M. , DAHMS S.E. , MATZEL K. , THÜROFF J.W.
Published: March 2014

Despite initial reservations, sacral neuromodulation has begun to develop as a new therapeutic tool for the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction. It bridges the gap between conservative treatment options and highly invasive procedures, such as urinary diversion. At present, there are no clinical variables that can reliably predict the efficacy of neuromodulation in an individual patient. All patients, regardless of indication, must therefore undergo a test stimulation before they can be offered chronic sacral neuromodulation with an implanted system. Evaluations in various clinical trials have confirmed that sacral neuromodulation, based on unilateral sacral foramen electrode implantation, has statistically significant therapeutic effects compared to controls, in patients with urge syndromes and failure to empty. The patients most likely to benefit from this treatment are those with detrusor hyperactivity or detrusor hypo‐activity. Those with pain syndromes are less likely to respond and to benefit from treatment. Acute and subchronic sacral neuromodulation are associated with very low rates of complications. Complications of chronic sacral neuromodulation are caused either by surgery‐related morbidity or hardware problems. Conservative treatment options should be exhausted before neuromodulation is considered. This rule has two purposes: First, it postpones surgery, with its potential morbidity, for as long as possible; second, the long‐term efficacy of neuromodulation is still unclear and may be limited in some patients. A fully exploited conservative therapy, in combination with subsequent sacral neuromodulation, may therefore be the optimum way to pursue therapeutic options of relatively low invasiveness.
Occupancy of yellow‐billed and Pacific loons: evidence for interspecific competition and habitat mediated co‐occurrence
Authors: Haynes Trevor B. , Schmutz Joel A. , Lindberg Mark S. , Wright Kenneth G. , Uher‐Koch Brian D. , Rosenberger Amanda E.
Published: March 2014

Interspecific competition is an important process structuring ecological communities, however, it is difficult to observe in nature. We used an occupancy modelling approach to evaluate evidence of competition between yellow‐billed (Gavia adamsii) and Pacific (G. pacifica) loons for nesting lakes on the Arctic Coastal Plain of Alaska. With multiple years of data and survey platforms, we estimated dynamic occupancy states (e.g. rates of colonization or extinction from individual lakes) and controlled for detection differences among aircraft platforms and ground survey crews. Results indicated that yellow‐billed loons were strong competitors and negatively influenced the occupancy of Pacific loons by excluding them from potential breeding lakes. Pacific loon occupancy was conditional on the presence of yellow‐billed loons, with Pacific loons having almost a tenfold decrease in occupancy probability when yellow‐billed loons were present and a threefold decrease in colonization probability when yellow‐billed loons were present in the current or previous year. Yellow‐billed and Pacific loons co‐occurred less than expected by chance except on very large lakes or lakes with convoluted shorelines; variables which may decrease the cost of maintaining a territory in the presence of the other species. These results imply the existence of interspecific competition between yellow‐billed and Pacific loons for nesting lakes; however, habitat characteristics which facilitate visual and spatial separation of territories can reduce competitive interactions and promote species co‐occurrence.
One‐Year Follow‐Up After Single Procedure Cryoballoon Ablation: A Comparison Between the First and Second Generation Balloon
Authors: GIOVANNI GIACOMO DI , WAUTERS KRISTEL , CHIERCHIA GIAN‐BATTISTA , SIEIRA JUAN , LEVINSTEIN MOISES , CONTE GIULIO , DE ASMUNDIS CARLO , BALTOGIANNIS GIANNIS , SAITOH YUKIO , CICONTE GIUSEPPE , JULIA JUSTO , MUGNAI GIACOMO , IRFAN GHAZALA , BRUGADA PEDRO
Published: March 2014

A Comparison Between the First and Second Generation Balloon

Background

With respect to the first generation Cryoballoon (CB), the second generation (Cryoballoon Advance [CB‐A], Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) was designed with technical modifications resulting in a larger and more uniform zone of freezing on the balloon's surface aiming at procedural outcome improvement in the setting of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. However, a comparison between both technologies on a midterm follow‐up is missing in today's literature.

Methods

A total of 100 patients (the last 50 patients with the first generation CB and the first 50 patients with the second generation CB‐A upon its inception in our center) having undergone a single CB ablation for paroxysmal AF (PAF) and having completed a 12‐month follow‐up, were consecutively included in our study. Freedom from AF off‐antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) after a single procedure was 78% (39/50) in CB‐A and 58% (29/50) in the CB group (P = 0.03) during the whole follow‐up duration. Considering a blanking period of 3 months, freedom from AF off‐AAD was achieved in 84% (42/50) in CB‐A, while 66% (33/50) were free from recurrence in the CB group (P = 0.038). Right phrenic nerve palsy (PNP) occurred in 8 patients (16%) in CB‐A group and in 4 patients (8%) in the CB group.

Conclusion

Freedom from AF on 12 months follow‐up was significantly higher in the CB‐A group with respect to the first generation device. The most frequent complication observed was PNP.
Spatial variation in the effects of size and age on reproductive dynamics of common coral trout Plectropomus leopardus
Authors: Carter A. B. , Russ G. R. , Tobin A. J. , Williams A. J. , Davies C. R. , Mapstone B. D.
Published: March 2014

The effects of size and age on reproductive dynamics of common coral trout Plectropomus leopardus populations were compared between coral reefs open or closed (no‐take marine reserves) to fishing and among four geographic regions of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Australia. The specific reproductive metrics investigated were the sex ratio, the proportion of vitellogenic females and the spawning fraction of local populations. Sex ratios became increasingly male biased with length and age, as expected for a protogyne, but were more male biased in southern regions of the GBR (Mackay and Storm Cay) than in northern regions (Lizard Island and Townsville) across all lengths and ages. The proportion of vitellogenic females also increased with length and age. Female P. leopardus were capable of daily spawning during the spawning season, but on average spawned every 4·3 days. Mature females spawned most frequently on Townsville reserve reefs (every 2·3 days) and Lizard Island fished reefs (every 3·2 days). Females on Mackay reefs open to fishing showed no evidence of spawning over 4 years of sampling, while females on reserve reefs spawned only once every 2–3 months. No effect of length on spawning frequency was detected. Spawning frequency increased with age on Lizard Island fished reefs, declined with age on Storm Cay fished reefs, and declined with age on reserve reefs in all regions. It is hypothesized that the variation in P. leopardus sex ratios and spawning frequency among GBR regions is primarily driven by water temperature, while no‐take management zones influence spawning frequency depending on the region in which the reserve is located. Male bias and lack of spawning activity on southern GBR, where densities of adult P. leopardus are highest, suggest that recruits may be supplied from central or northern GBR. Significant regional variation in reproductive traits suggests that a regional approach to management of P. leopardus is appropriate and highlights the need for considering spatial variation in reproduction where reserves are used as fishery or conservation management tools.
Evaluation of Tomato Processing By‐Products: A Comparative Study in a Pilot Scale Setup
Authors: Sarkar Anwesha , Kaul Purnima
Published: March 2014

This study aims at providing a comparative evaluation of tomato processing by‐products, i.e., seeds and peel. A pilot scale process has been demonstrated for extraction and drying (both freeze and cabinet drying) of tomato seeds and peel. Various aspects of dried tomato seeds such as its protein content, amino acid profile, calculated protein efficiency ratio (PER), presence of antinutritional factors, polyphenol contents and antioxidant activities were evaluated. In this study, the total polyphenol content in the hydrophilic extract as well as antioxidant activities of tomato peel were found to be 66.5 and 38.2% higher, respectively, than that of the tomato seed meal showing importance of the former from a functional point of view. Tomato seed protein isolate (92%) prepared from tomato seed meal had a calculated PER of 2.66. The protein isolate contained all essential amino acids (including lysine), meeting the minimum requirements of reference protein for preschool children aged 1–2 years (WHO/FAO/UNU). The tomato seed protein isolate showed negligible levels of phytate (3.48 μg/g) and trypsin inhibitory activity (2.655 TIU/mg). This study clearly highlights that tomato seed, a by‐product of tomato processing industry, is a rich source of high‐quality plant protein together with intrinsic polyphenols and antioxidant activities, although the functional properties being less dominant than the peel counterpart. Therefore, tomato seed meal with unique protein quality could be regarded as a potential source of protein‐rich adjunct in various food formulations.

Practical Applications

With the increased industrial demand of protein sources, there has been an upsurge of research efforts in recent years to extract dietary proteins from plant‐based sources. By‐products of oilseeds, fruits and vegetable‐processing industries can be sustainable low‐cost protein alternatives, which are available at no additional cost and can find commercial valorization in food formulations. As an example, this study identified a pilot plant setup to produce tomato seed protein isolate and investigated protein quality, antinutritional factors as well as compared the polyphenol content and antioxidant activities in the context of its counterpart by‐product tomato peel. This knowledge will facilitate the use of tomato seed protein isolate as a low‐cost protein‐rich adjunct with functional benefits in food formulation. Most importantly, this study highlights that high‐quality plant protein isolates can be recovered from agro‐industrial by‐products, thus adding commercial value to them and allowing their industrial exploitation.
Comparative study of the effect of 50% pyruvic and 30% salicylic peels on the skin lipid film in patients with acne vulgaris
Authors: Marczyk Beata , Mucha Paulina , Budzisz Elżbieta , Rotsztejn Helena
Published: March 2014

Pyruvic (alfa‐keto acid) and salicylic (beta‐hydroxy acid) acids are superficial peels frequently used in patients with acne vulgaris.

Aim

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of 50% pyruvic and 30% salicylic peels on facial sebum secretion in patients with acne vulgaris, aged 13–30.

Material and methods

The level of secreted sebum was determined in 20 men and women. Ten patients were treated with 50% pyruvic acid and the remaining 10 with 30% salicylic acid. Each peel was applied five times at 2‐week intervals. The sebum measurements were taken in the T‐ and U‐zones using a Sebumeter SM 815 (Courage & Khazaka, Germany). The last, sixth measurement was taken 2 weeks after the treatment.

Results

A statistically significant decrease in the level of secreted sebum in both U‐ and T‐ zones was observed in the patients studied after the third application of 50% pyruvic peel and the second application of 30% salicylic peel. Two weeks following the completion of therapy, sebumetric measurements demonstrated a greater reduction in the facial skin lipid film among the patients treated with salicylic peel.

Conclusions

Peels with 50% pyruvic acid and 30% salicylic acid are the procedures that significantly contributed to a decrease in the level of secreted sebum on the facial skin surface in the group of patients studied. A greater therapeutic effect was observed following 30% salicylic peel, which might be associated with its high lipophilic properties and easier penetration through the lipid barriers of the epidermis.
Marine cosmeceuticals
Authors: Kim Se‐Kwon
Published: March 2014

Recently, a great deal of interest has been expressed in the cosmetic industry regarding marine‐derived cosmetic active ingredients due to their numerous beneficial effects on human skin health. Bioactive substances derived from marine resources have diverse functional roles as natural skin care agents, and these properties can be applied to the development of novel cosmetics as well as nutricosmetics (from edible seaweeds and edible marine animals). This contribution focuses on marine‐derived cosmeceutical active ingredients and presents an overview of their health beneficial effects on human skin.
Comparative study of various growth factors and cytokines on type I collagen and hyaluronan production in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Mi‐Sun , Song Hye Jin , Lee Sang Hwa , Lee Cheon Koo
Published: March 2014

Background

Dermal fibroblast is a primary cell type responsible for synthesis and remodeling of extracellular matrix in human skin. Type I collagen and hyaluronan are main components that have roles in skin fibrosis, wound healing, tissue remodeling as well as skin aging. Several studies have reported cytokine‐dependent changes in collagen expression or hyaluronan production; however, the cytokines’ effect was controversial in human dermal fibroblasts.

Aims

To clarify the role of various growth factors, cytokines or chemokines on the production of interstitial type I collagen and hyaluronan in dermal fibroblasts.

Methods

We confirmed the presence of various corresponding receptors and assessed the effects of 33 human recombinants on the production of type I collagen and hyaluronan using the assay system in dermal fibroblasts.

Results

Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐AA, PDGF‐BB, epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, MCP‐1, IP‐10, interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β, and IL‐15 were effective on both type I collagen and hyaluronan production, as compared with no stimulated control. On the other hand, IL‐10 and IFN‐ α caused a significant decrease in type I collagen production, and IL‐8 and GM‐CSF caused a decrease in hyaluronan production compared with no cytokine‐treated control. Interestingly, some chemokines, such as MCP‐1 (CCL2), RANTES (CCL5), eotaxin‐2 (CCL24), IP‐10 (CXCL10), or fractalkine (CX3CL1) significantly induced the type I collagen or hyaluronan production.

Conclusions

Various growth factors and cytokines on the regulation of type I collagen and hyaluronan in human dermal skin probably function as key factors in skin remodeling and skin aging. Our profile may help to apply to cosmeceutical area maintaining as young skin through the increase in extracellular matrix.
NUTRITION CARE FOR RENAL TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS: AN EVALUATION OF SERVICE DELIVERY AND OUTCOMES
Authors: Orazio Linda , Chapman Jessica , Isbel Nicole M. , Campbell Katrina L.
Published: March 2014

Background

Weight gain post‐renal transplantation is common. Recommendations from recent guidelines include providing structured nutrition care to target risk factors for chronic disease in the early post‐transplant period.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the nutrition care provided to renal transplant recipients following implementation of a dietetic model of care and to identify predictors of weight change up to one year post‐transplant.

Methods

A retrospective and observational study of one hundred and fifty‐six patients that received a renal transplant from a state‐wide transplant service in Australia between October 2009 and December 2010. Nutrition care provided compared with guideline recommendations within the first three months post‐transplant and weight change at 12 months post‐transplant, significant weight gain equating to >5% pre‐transplant weight.

Results

Only 35% of patients were provided with nutrition care according to guideline recommendations, were older, and had a higher BMI and diabetes. Significant weight gain was evident for half of the patients evaluated. Thirty‐eight percent of healthy weight patients at transplant became overweight or obese and 23% of overweight patients at baseline became obese at 12 months. After multivariate analysis, time on dialysis was independently associated with weight change at 12 months.

Conclusion

Nutrition care provided did not meet guideline recommendations, highlighting difficulty in implementing evidence to practice. Significant weight gain was evident particularly in patients classified as ‘healthy weight’ at the time of transplant. Long‐term, prospective studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of implementing nutrition care to attenuate weight gain and improve clinical outcomes.
Diglossia and identity in Northeast Thailand: Linguistic, social, and political hierarchy
Authors: Alexander Saowanee T. , McCargo Duncan
Published: March 2014

The paper explores diglossic relations between Central Thai and phasa isan, a variety officially known as a dialect of Thai, but linguistically close to Lao. Phasa isan is spoken by almost one‐third of Thailand's population but its speakers in the Northeast are often stigmatized as uneducated and backward. We conducted field research mainly among university students in Ubon Ratchathani, a northeastern border province, by drawing upon data from survey questionnaires, reflective essays, interviews, and field observations. The findings suggest a transitional diglossic relationship in which Central Thai is the High and phasa isan the Low variety. These relationships are discussed in terms of nationalism, social hierarchy, and language maintenance and shift.
Congenital bipartite atlas with hypodactyly in a dog: clinical, radiographic and CT findings
Authors: Wrzosek M. , Płonek M. , Zeira O. , Bieżyński J. , Kinda W. , Guziński M.
Published: March 2014

A three‐year‐old Border collie was diagnosed with a bipartite atlas and bilateral forelimb hypodactyly. The dog showed signs of acute, non‐progressive neck pain, general stiffness and right thoracic limb non‐weight‐bearing lameness. Computed tomography imaging revealed a bipartite atlas with abaxial vertical bone proliferation, which was the cause of the clinical signs. In addition, bilateral hypodactyly of the second and fifth digits was incidentally found. This report suggests that hypodactyly may be associated with atlas malformations.
Changes in Sexual Function after Medical or Surgical Termination of Pregnancy
Authors: Morotti Matteo , Calanni Luana , Gianola Gaia , Anserini Paola , Venturini Pier Luigi , Ferrero Simone
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Voluntary termination of pregnancy (TOP) is a social issue; however, even if it is one of the most common procedures performed in the world, few studies evaluated sexual function changes after medical or surgical TOP.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate how first trimester TOP by either surgical (group 1) or medical procedure (group 2) affects sexual function.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 211 patients (132 in group 1 and 79 in group 2) who requested first trimester TOP between September 2010 and May 2012. Medical TOP (mifepristone and misoprostol) was offered to patients up to 49 days of gestation. Surgical TOP was performed up to 12 weeks. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to evaluate sexual function before TOP, after 1, 3, and 6 months from TOP.

Main Outcome Measures

Changes in the FSFI values and number of sexual active patients after 1, 3, and 6 months from the TOP and the self-reported quality of sexual life at 6 months, with the two different procedures, were the main outcome measures.

Results

At 4-week follow-up, 23.6% of women in group 1 did not resume sexual intercourse compared with 5.4% of women in group 2 (P = 0.003). At 6 months, 3.3% of women in the group 1 and no women in the group 2 did not resume sexual intercourses (P = 0.123). Compared with women in group 2, those in group 1 had lower FSFI score and number of sexual intercourses at 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study shows that the number of sexually active women and the overall FSFI are reduced in women undergoing surgical TOP compared with those undergoing medical TOP. Counseling regarding sexual function changes should be included in the discussion of morbidity related to medical or surgical TOP.
Valproic Acid Prevents Penile Fibrosis and Erectile Dysfunction in Cavernous Nerve-Injured Rats
Authors: Hannan Johanna L. , Kutlu Omer , Stopak Bernard L. , Liu Xiaopu , Castiglione Fabio , Hedlund Petter , Burnett Arthur L. , Bivalacqua Trinity J.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) causes profound penile changes such as apoptosis and fibrosis leading to erectile dysfunction (ED). Histone deacetylase (HDAC) has been implicated in chronic fibrotic diseases.

Aims

This study will characterize the molecular changes in penile HDAC after BCNI and determine if HDAC inhibition can prevent BCNI-induced ED and penile fibrosis.

Methods

Five groups of rats (8–10 weeks, n = 10/group) were utilized: (i) sham; (ii and iii) BCNI 14 and 30 days following injury; and (iv and v) BCNI treated with HDAC inhibitor valproic acid (VPA 250 mg/kg; 14 and 30 days). All groups underwent cavernous nerve stimulation (CNS) to determine intracavernosal pressure (ICP). Penile HDAC3, HDAC4, fibronectin, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) protein expression (Western blot) were assessed. Trichrome staining and the fractional area of fibrosis were determined in penes from each group. Cavernous smooth muscle content was assessed by immunofluorescence to alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) antibodies.

Main Outcome Measures

We measured ICP; HDAC3, HDAC4, fibronectin, and TGF-β1 protein expression; penile fibrosis; penile α-SMA content.

Results

There was a voltage-dependent decline (P < 0.05) in ICP to CNS 14 and 30 days after BCNI. Penile HDAC3, HDAC4, and fibronectin were significantly increased (P < 0.05) 14 days after BCNI. There was a slight increase in TGF-β1 protein expression after BCNI. Histological analysis showed increased (P < 0.05) corporal fibrosis after BCNI at both time points. VPA treatment decreased (P < 0.05) penile HDAC3, HDAC4, and fibronectin protein expression as well as corporal fibrosis. There was no change in penile α-SMA between all groups. Furthermore, VPA-treated BCNI rats had improved erectile responses to CNS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

HDAC-induced pathological signaling in response to BCNI contributes to penile vascular dysfunction. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC prevents penile fibrosis, normalizes fibronectin expression, and preserves erectile function. The HDAC pathway may represent a suitable target in preventing the progression of ED occurring post-radical prostatectomy.
The Human Rights Act and the doctrine of precedent
Authors: Pattinson Shaun D
Published: March 2014

Conflicts between domestic precedents and subsequent decisions of the European Court of Human Rights have resulted in the lower courts following prior domestic decisions even when convinced that they will be overruled on appeal. The standard interpretation of the decision of the House of Lords in Kay v Lambeth holds the lower courts to domestic precedents that are manifestly inconsistent with the subsequent Strasbourg jurisprudence and admits only the most limited exception. This paper advances an alternative approach to the relationship between the domestic courts' obligations under the Human Rights Act 1998 and the doctrine of precedent by analysis of the nature of the doctrine of precedent and the reasons offered by Lord Bingham in his leading judgment in Kay. This analysis is then extended and applied to two recent cases in which the lower courts have considered themselves bound by a decision of the UK's highest appeal court that fails to give due effect to the applicants' Convention rights.
Effects of potassium iodide in concentrations of TSH, tT3 and tT4 in serum of subjects with sporotrichosis
Authors: Ramírez Soto Max Carlos
Published: March 2014

The saturated potassium iodide solution (SSKI) as treatment for sporotrichosis may cause hypothyroidism by suppressing the synthesis of thyroid hormones (tT3 and tT4) and the iodine excess could lead to thyrotoxicosis. Evaluating the changes in serum levels of TSH, tT3 and tT4 in euthyroid patients with sporotrichosis treated with SSKI. For the selection of euthyroid patients, TSH, tT3 and tT4 concentrations were measured for those adults and children diagnosed with sporotrichosis. Each paediatric patient was administered SSKI orally in increasing doses of 2–20 drops/3 times/day and 4–40 drops/3 times/day in adults. Serum concentrations of TSH, tT3 and tT4 were measured 20 days after started the treatment and 15 days posttreatment. Eight euthyroid patients aged between 2 to 65 years old were included. After 20 days of treatment, two suffered subclinical hypothyroidism, one developed subclinical hyperthyroidism, and one hyperthyroxinaemia euthyroid. At 15 days posttreatment only four patients were evaluated and all serum levels of TSH, tT3 and tT4 were normal. Some euthyroid patients with sporotrichosis can develop hyperthyroidism or subclinical iodine‐induced hypothyroidism, during the administration of 3 or 6 g SSKI/day.