bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid and Accurate Identification of Human Isolates ofPasteurellaand Related Species by Sequencing thesodAGene
Authors: Gautier Anne-Lise , Dubois Damien , Escande Françoise , Avril Jean-Loup , Trieu-Cuot Patrick , Gaillot Olivier
Published: May 2005

The identification ofPasteurellaand related bacteria remains a challenge. Here, a 449- to 473-bp fragment (sodAint) internal to thesodAgene, encoding the manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase, was amplified and sequenced with a single pair of degenerate primers from the type strains ofPasteurella(18 strains),Gallibacterium(1 strain), andMannheimia(5 strains) species. ThesodAint-based phylogenetic tree was in general agreement with that inferred from the analysis of the corresponding 16S rRNA gene sequences, with members of thePasteurellasensu stricto cluster (Pasteurella multocida,Pasteurella canis,Pasteurella dagmatis, andPasteurella stomatis) forming a monophyletic group andGallibacteriumandMannheimiabeing independent monophyletic genera. However, thesodAintsequences showed a markedly higher divergence than the corresponding 16S rRNA genes, confirming thatsodAis a potent target to differentiate related species. Thirty-three independent human clinical isolates phenotypically assigned to 13Pasteurellaspecies by a reference laboratory were successfully identified by comparing theirsodAintsequences to those of the type species. In the course of this work, we identified the firstGallibacterium anatisisolate ever reported from a human clinical specimen. ThesodAintsequences of the clinical isolates displayed less than 2.5% divergence from those of the corresponding type strains, except for thePasteurella pneumotropicaisolates, which were closely related to each other (>98%sodAintsequence identity) but shared only 92%sodAintidentity with the type strain. The method described here provides a rapid and accurate tool for species identification ofPasteurellaisolates when access to a sequencing facility is available.
Quantification of Hepatitis Delta Virus RNA in Serum by Consensus Real-Time PCR Indicates Different Patterns of Virological Response to Interferon Therapy in Chronically Infected Patients
Authors: Le Gal Frédéric , Gordien Emmanuel , Affolabi Dissou , Hanslik Thomas , Alloui Chakib , Dény Paul , Gault Elyanne
Published: May 2005

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV), in association with hepatitis B virus, is responsible for severe acute and chronic hepatitis. Treatment of the infection relies on the long-term administration of high doses of alpha interferon (IFN), and the treatment efficiency is monitored by the detection of anti-HDV immunoglobulin M and HDV genome in serum. Like the case for other chronic viral infections, HDV genome quantification in serum should be useful for the follow-up of infected patients. The aims of this study were to develop a quantitative assay for the detection of any type of HDV in serum and to evaluate the benefit of HDV RNA quantification for the follow-up of chronically infected patients receiving IFN. A real-time reverse transcription-PCR assay was developed to quantify the HDV RNA load in serum. Its efficacy was evaluated with 160 serum samples, 76 of which were collected from 11 chronically infected patients who were treated with pegylated IFN. The assay was sensitive (100 copies/ml of serum) and efficient for all HDV types, including type 3 and the recently described types 5, 6, and 7. The viral load determinations for treated patients allowed us to identify different profiles of virological responses to IFN therapy with more accuracy than that attainable with the qualitative approach. In conclusion, we have developed a quantitative HDV RNA assay for serum which is adapted to the follow-up of antiviral treatment for patients infected with any HDV type. The assay will help us to understand the natural history of HDV infection and to define guidelines for the management of chronic delta hepatitis.
Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Method for Rapid Detection of the Periodontopathic BacteriaPorphyromonas gingivalis,Tannerella forsythia, andTreponema denticola
Authors: Yoshida Akihiro , Nagashima Shiori , Ansai Toshihiro , Tachibana Masayo , Kato Hiroaki , Watari Hajime , Notomi Tsugunori , Takehara Tadamichi
Published: May 2005

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), a novel nucleic acid amplification method, was developed for the rapid detection of the major periodontal pathogensPorphyromonas gingivalis,Tannerella forsythia, andTreponema denticola. The LAMP method amplifies DNA with high specificity, efficiency, and rapidity under isothermal conditions using a set of four specially designed primers and a DNA polymerase with strand displacement activity. In this study, we initially designed the primers for LAMP assays to detect these bacteria and evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of these assays. The specificities of the primers for these bacteria were examined using various oral bacteria and various reaction times. The lower detection limits of the 60-min LAMP reaction without loop primers were 1 μg/tube forP. gingivalis, 10 fg/tube forT. forsythia, and 1 ng/tube forT. denticola. Addition of the loop primers for each bacterium improved the detection specificities and sensitivities by several magnitudes. Furthermore, LAMP assays were applied to the rapid detection of these periodontal pathogens in clinical specimens, and the results were compared with those of conventional PCR detection. The results of the LAMP assays corresponded to those of conventional PCR assays. These results indicate that the LAMP assay is an extremely rapid, highly sensitive, specific method. This method is very useful for the rapid detection of periodontopathic bacteria and the diagnosis of periodontal disease.
Development and Use of an Internal Positive Control for Detection of
Bordetella pertussis
by PCR
Authors: Herwegh Stéphanie , Carnoy Christophe , Wallet Frédéric , Loïez Caroline , Courcol René J.
Published: May 2005

An internal control of amplification was constructed by recombinant PCR to detect PCR inhibitors. This exogenous DNA was included in the reaction mixture and coamplified with the target gene. This detection was successfully applied to the diagnosis of whooping cough by amplification of a fragment of
Bordetella pertussis
IS
481
.
Comparative Molecular Analysis of
Haemophilus influenzae
Isolates from Young Children with Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infections and Meningitis in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Kaji Chiharu , Anh Dang Duc , Huong Phan Le Thanh , Anh Nguyen Thi Hien , Huong Vu Thi , Phuong Hoang Vu Mai , Thi Ngo Thi , Suu Pham Thi , Nguyet Nguyen Thi Thu , Rusizoka Olivia Sebastian , Watanabe Kiwao , Nagatake Tsuyoshi , Oishi Kazunori
Published: May 2005

Thirty-seven
Haemophilus influenzae
strains from nasopharyngeal swabs (NP) and 44
H. influenzae
strains from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were investigated. Of the 37
H. influenzae
isolates from NP, the serotypes of 30 isolates were nontypeable, 4 were type b, 2 were type c, and 1 was type a, whereas all of the 44 isolates from CSF were type b. The MICs of 16 antibiotics for the
H. influenzae
isolates from NP and CSF were similar, and no β-lactamase-negative ampicillin-resistant strain was found. Molecular typing by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) showed that the 37
H. influenzae
strains from NP had 22 PFGE patterns, with none predominating, and the 44
H. influenzae
strains from CSF had 9 PFGE patterns, with patterns α (22 isolates) and β (12 isolates) predominating. Our results indicate that two predominant types of
H. influenzae
type b strains have the potential to spread among children with meningitis in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Broth Microdilution and Disk Diffusion Tests for Susceptibility Testing of
Pasteurella
Species Isolated from Human Clinical Specimens
Authors: Citron Diane M. , Warren Yumi A. , Fernandez Helen T. , Goldstein Maurice A. , Tyrrell Kerin L. , Goldstein Ellie J. C.
Published: May 2005

Broth microdilution and disk diffusion susceptibility testing were performed on 73 strains of
Pasteurella
species isolated from human infections and on five American Type Culture Collection strains of
Pasteurella
species. Both methods appear reliable for testing susceptibilities of
Pasteurella
species.
Unstable Vancomycin Heteroresistance Is Common among Clinical Isolates of Methiciliin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Plipat Nottasorn , Livni Gilat , Bertram Heidi , Thomson Richard B.
Published: May 2005

We tested 109 unique, vancomycin-susceptible, methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) strains for vancomycin heteroresistance by a selection method, i.e., step-wise exposure of large inoculums to increasing concentrations of vancomycin. Although no strains demonstrated stable heteroresistance, 81 strains (74%) demonstrated unstable heteroresistance. Unstable heteroresistance is common among clinical isolates of MRSA and may represent a cause of therapeutic failure.
Prevalence, Incidence, and Clinical Relevance of the Reverse Transcriptase V207I Mutation Outside the YMDD Motif of the Hepatitis B Virus Polymerase during Lamivudine Therapy
Authors: Zöllner B. , Sterneck M. , Wursthorn K. , Petersen J. , Schröter M. , Laufs R. , Feucht H.-H.
Published: May 2005

The reverse transcriptase V207I mutation within the hepatitis B virus (HBV) polymerase is associated with resistance to lamivudine in vitro. The prevalence of this mutation in treatment-naïve patients was 1% (1/96). A follow-up of the patient carrying this mutation prior to treatment revealed no loss of sensitivity of HBV to lamivudine in vivo.
Routine Incubation of BacT/ALERT FA and FN Blood Culture Bottles for More than 3 Days May Not Be Necessary
Authors: Bourbeau Paul P. , Foltzer Michael
Published: May 2005

We reviewed time to detection for 35,500 blood cultures collected in BacT/ALERT FA and FN bottles. In the first 3 days of incubation, 97.5% of the 2,609 clinically significant isolates were detected, suggesting that routine incubation for more than 3 days may not be necessary for FA and FN bottles.
In Vitro Activity of Voriconazole against
Prototheca wickerhamii
: Comparative Evaluation of Sensititre and NCCLS M27-A2 Methods of Detection
Authors: Linares Maria José , Solís Francisco , Casal Manuel
Published: May 2005

A total of 104
Prototheca wickerhamii
isolates and two control strains were tested for susceptibility to voriconazole using the Sensititre YeastOne colorimetric antifungal plate and NCCLS reference method. Voriconazole was highly active against all isolates, with an MIC at which 90% of isolates were inhibited of ≤0.5 μg/ml. Comparison of MICs obtained with the Sensititre product and the NCCLS method demonstrated agreement (100% ± 2 log
2
dilutions) between the two methods. Voriconazole may offer an option for the treatment of
Prototheca
sp. infections, and its efficacy should be established through clinical experience.
Methods for Reducing Bacterial Contamination in the BacT/Alert Mycobacterial Culture Detection System
Authors: Dionne Kim , Sweeney Amy , Hedgepeth Annie , Carroll Karen , Parrish Nicole
Published: May 2005

Two methods were compared for decreasing bacterial contamination in the BacT/Alert mycobacterial culture detection system. Two concentrations, 0.5 ml (standard amount) and 1.0 ml, of mycobacterial antibiotic supplement were evaluated. Contamination rates were 14% and 6% for the standard and the doubled concentrations, respectively. This difference was statistically significant (
P
< 0.005).
Listeria-Associated Arthritis in a Patient Undergoing Etanercept Therapy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Schett Georg , Herak Petra , Graninger Winfried , Smolen Josef S. , Aringer Martin
Published: May 2005

Listeriosis can be a cause of infectious arthritis. Here, we present a case of articular listeriosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis receiving treatment with etanercept, a tumor necrosis factor antagonist. We review the literature of articular listeriosis and discuss the role of tumor necrosis factor blockade in precipitating listeriosis.
Unusual Laboratory Findings in a Case of Norwegian Scabies Provided a Clue to Diagnosis
Authors: Wong Samson S. Y. , Woo Patrick C. Y. , Yuen Kwok-yung
Published: May 2005

The diagnosis of Norwegian scabies was missed for a year for an elderly long-term-care facility resident. Serpiginous tracks were noted on the surface of Sabouraud dextrose agar used for fungal culture of the skin scrapings. This unusual laboratory manifestation must alert clinical microbiologists to the possible diagnosis of scabies.
SIMPLE REGULAR SKEW GROUP RINGS
Authors: CROW KATHI
Published: May 2005

Given a group G acting on a ring R via α:G → Aut (R), one can construct the skew group ring R*αG. Skew group rings have been studied in depth, but necessary and sufficient conditions for the simplicity of a general skew group ring are not known. In this paper, such conditions are given for certain types of skew group rings, with an emphasis on Von Neumann regular skew group rings. Next the results of the first section are used to construct a class of simple skew group rings. In particular, we obtain a more efficient proof of the simplicity of a certain ring constructed by J. Trlifaj.
Three weeks of caloric restriction alters protein metabolism in normal-weight, young men
Authors: Friedlander Anne L. , Braun Barry , Pollack Margaret , MacDonald Jay R. , Fulco Charles S. , Muza Steve R. , Rock Paul B. , Henderson Gregory C. , Horning Michael A. , Brooks George A. , Hoffman Andrew R. , Cymerman Allen
Published: May 2005

The effects of prolonged caloric restriction (CR) on protein kinetics in lean subjects has not been investigated previously. The purpose of this study was to test the hypotheses that 21 days of CR in lean subjects would 1) result in significant losses of lean mass despite a suppression in leucine turnover and oxidation and 2) negatively impact exercise performance. Nine young, normal-weight men [23 ± 5 y, 78.6 ± 5.7 kg, peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2 peak) 45.2 ± 7.3 ml·kg−1·min−1, mean ± SD] were underfed by 40% of the calories required to maintain body weight for 21 days and lost 3.8 ± 0.3 kg body wt and 2.0 ± 0.4 kg lean mass. Protein intake was kept at 1.2 g·kg−1·day−1. Leucine kinetics were measured using α-ketoisocaproic acid reciprocal pool model in the postabsorptive state during rest and 50 min of exercise (EX) at 50% of V̇o2 peak. Body composition, basal metabolic rate (BMR), and exercise performance were measured throughout the intervention. At rest, leucine flux (≈131 μmol·kg−1·h−1) and oxidation (Rox; ≈19 μmol·kg−1·h−1) did not differ pre- and post-CR. During EX, leucine flux (129 ± 6 vs. 121 ± 6) and Rox (54 ± 6 vs. 46 ± 8) were lower after CR than they were pre-CR. Nitrogen balance was negative throughout the intervention (≈3.0g N/day), and BMR declined from 1,898 ± 262 to 1,670 ± 203 kcal/day. Aerobic performance (V̇o2 peak, endurance cycling) was not impacted by CR, but arm flexion endurance decreased by 20%. In conclusion, 3 wk of caloric restriction reduced leucine flux and Rox during exercise in normal-weight young men. However, despite negative nitrogen balance and loss of lean mass, whole body exercise performance was well maintained in response to CR.
Intraperitoneal infusion of proinflammatory cytokines does not cause activation of the rat uterus during late gestation
Authors: Mitchell Bryan F. , Zielnik Barbara , Wong Susan , Roberts Carla D. , Mitchell Jana M.
Published: May 2005

Increased concentrations of IL-1β and TNF-α have been associated with parturition. However, the role of these cytokines is unknown. Before parturition, the uterus undergoes a process of activation, during which there are significant changes in expression of genes associated with increased uterine contractility, including the receptors for oxytocin (OT) and prostaglandin (PG)F2α(FP), PGH2synthase isoform 2 (PGHS2), the gap junction protein connexin-43 (Cx-43), and the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). To determine whether IL-1β or TNF-α was part of the causal mechanism for increased uterine contractions, we placed osmotic pumps infusing IL-1β or TNF-α into the peritoneal cavity of late pregnant rats (gestation day 19) and measured the effects on uterine contractility and on the uterine concentrations of mRNA for the contraction-associated genes 24 h later. Maternal serum concentrations of IL-1β and TNF-α were increased significantly. By day 21, the control animals had significant increases ( P ≤ 0.05) in mRNA for OT, FP, PGHS2, and Cx-43, a decrease ( P ≤ 0.05) in iNOS, and an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in uterine sensitivity and responsiveness to OT. Infusion of IL-1β or TNF-α had no effect on uterine contractility or on expression of the activation-associated genes. We conclude that intraperitoneal infusion of IL-1β or TNF-α resulting in significantly increased maternal serum cytokine levels does not cause uterine activation. The role of proinflammatory cytokines in the mechanism of parturition remains unclear.
Increases in glycogenin and glycogenin mRNA accompany glycogen resynthesis in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Shearer Jane , Wilson Rhonda J. , Battram Danielle S. , Richter Erik A. , Robinson Deborah L. , Bakovic Marica , Graham Terry E.
Published: May 2005

Glycogenin is the self-glycosylating protein primer that initiates glycogen granule formation. To examine the role of this protein during glycogen resynthesis, eight male subjects exercised to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer at 75% V̇o2 max followed by five 30-s sprints at maximal capacity to further deplete glycogen stores. During recovery, carbohydrate (75 g/h) was supplied to promote rapid glycogen repletion, and muscle biopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis at 0, 30, 120, and 300 min postexercise. At time 0, no free (deglycosylated) glycogenin was detected in muscle, indicating that all glycogenin was complexed to carbohydrate. Glycogenin activity, a measure of the glycosylating ability of the protein, increased at 30 min and remained elevated for the remainder of the study. Quantitative RT-PCR showed elevated glycogenin mRNA at 120 min followed by increases in protein levels at 300 min. Glycogenin specific activity (glycogenin activity/relative protein content) was also elevated at 120 min. Proglycogen increased at all time points, with the highest rate of resynthesis occurring between 0 and 30 min. In comparison, macroglycogen levels did not significantly increase until 300 min postexercise. Together, these results show that, during recovery from prolonged exhaustive exercise, glycogenin mRNA and protein content and activity increase in muscle. This may facilitate rapid glycogen resynthesis by providing the glycogenin backbone of proglycogen, the major component of glycogen synthesized in early recovery.
Expression of polycystin-1 enhances endoplasmic reticulum calcium uptake and decreases capacitative calcium entry in ATP-stimulated MDCK cells
Authors: Hooper K. M. , Boletta A. , Germino G. G. , Hu Q. , Ziegelstein R. C. , Sutters M.
Published: May 2005

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) types 1 and 2 arise as a consequence of mutations in the PKD1 or PKD2 genes, encoding polycystins-1 and -2. Because loss of function of either of the polycystins leads to a very similar phenotype and the two proteins are known to interact, polycystins-1 and -2 are probably active in the same pathway. The way in which loss of either polycystin leads to the development of ADPKD remains to be established, but disturbances of cell calcium regulation are likely to play an important role. Here, we demonstrate that polycystin-1, heterologously expressed in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells, had a pronounced effect on intracellular calcium homeostasis. ATP-induced calcium responses in transfection control cells exhibited a double peak and relatively gradual return to baseline. By contrast, cells expressing heterologous polycystin-1 showed a brief, uniphasic peak and an accelerated rate of decay. Heterologously expressed polycystin-1 accelerated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium reuptake and inhibited capacitative calcium entry; we found no effect of the protein on mitochondrial calcium buffering or plasma membrane calcium extrusion. We therefore propose that polycystin-1 accelerated the decay of the cell calcium response to ATP by upregulation of ER calcium reuptake and consequent minimization of the stimulus for capacitative calcium entry. It is possible that cellular dedifferentiation, fluid secretion, and proliferation might therefore arise in ADPKD as a consequence of disturbances in cytoplasmic and ER calcium homeostasis and aberrant capacitative calcium entry.
Development of age-dependent glomerular lesions in galectin-3/AGE-receptor-3 knockout mice
Authors: Iacobini Carla , Oddi Giovanna , Menini Stefano , Amadio Lorena , Ricci Carlo , Di Pippo Clelia , Sorcini Mariella , Pricci Flavia , Pugliese Francesco , Pugliese Giuseppe
Published: May 2005

Aging is characterized by renal functional and structural abnormalities resembling those observed in diabetes. These changes have been related to the progressive accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and cumulative oxidative stress occurring in both conditions. We previously reported that galectin-3 ablation is associated with increased susceptibility to diabetes- and AGE-induced glomerulopathy, thus indicating a protective role of galectin-3 as an AGE receptor. To investigate the role of the AGE/AGE receptor pathway in the pathogenesis of age-related renal disease, we evaluated the development of glomerular lesions in aging galectin-3 knockout (KO) vs. wild-type (WT) mice and their relation to the increased AGE levels and oxidative stress characterizing the aging process. KO mice showed significantly more pronounced age-dependent increases in proteinuria, albuminuria, glomerular sclerosis, and glomerular and mesangial areas, starting at 18 mo, as well as renal extracellular matrix mRNA and protein expression, starting at 12 mo vs. age-matched WT mice. Circulating and renal AGEs, plasma isoprostane 8-epi-PGF2αlevels, glomerular content of the glycoxidation and lipoxidation products Nε-carboxymethyllysine and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, and renal nuclear factor-κB activity also increased more markedly with age in KO than WT mice. AGE levels correlated significantly with renal functional and structural parameters. These data indicate that aging galectin-3 KO mice develop more pronounced changes in renal function and structure than coeval WT mice, in parallel with a more marked degree of AGE accumulation, oxidative stress, and associated low-grade inflammation, thus supporting the concept that the AGE/AGE receptor pathway is implicated in age-related renal disease.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Cyclooxygenase Isoforms in the Organ of Corti and the Spiral Ganglion Cells of Guinea Pig Cochlea
Authors: Ziegler E.A. , Brieger J. , Heinrich U.R. , Mann W.J.
Published: May 2005

Prostaglandins have been used in experimental models and clinical studies for the therapy of sudden hearing loss and tinnitus with conflicting results. However, little is known about the rate-limiting enzymes of prostaglandin synthesis in the inner ear, the generally constitutively expressed cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1) and the distress-inducible cycloxygenase 2 (COX-2). To extend our knowledge concerning the physiological expression and localization of these two enzymes, immunohistochemical stainings of the guinea pig cochlea were performed. Light microscopical analysis revealed a homogenous distribution of COX-1 within nearly all cell types of the organ of Corti, but no COX-1 expression in the cuticular plates of pillar cells. COX-2 was found to be expressed in all cell types, with much stronger expression in Hensen cells, neighboring Deiters cells and cuticular plates of outer hair cells. Both COX-1 and COX-2 immunoreactions were also found in the spiral ganglion. We conclude that both COX subtypes are expressed in the guinea pig cochlea under physiological conditions. The prominent expression of the distress-inducible COX-2 isoform in cell types under mechanical stress during noise reception might support the hypothesis of a cytoprotective function of COX products in hearing and in cellular stress situations like intense noise exposure.
Preservation of Basal Inner Ear Structures in Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Adunka Oliver , Gstoettner Wolfgang , Hambek Markus , Unkelbach Marc H. , Radeloff Andreas , Kiefer Jan
Published: May 2005

The aim of this report was to examine basal trauma in implanted human temporal bones and discuss modified approaches to the basal cochlear turn to avoid destruction of basal cochlear structures. Thirty-three human temporal bones were implanted with four different cochlear implant electrode arrays manufactured by MED-EL using either a caudal approach cochleostomy or round window membrane insertions. All specimens were processed with a special histological technique that allows sectioning of undecalcified bone with the electrode in situ. All bones were evaluated histologically in terms of basal cochlear trauma. Two pathomechanisms of basal trauma could be distinguished and were evaluated separately, buckling of the basal end of the array and trauma by drilling. Using the caudal approach cochleostomy, the total percentage of destructive basal trauma was 48% compared to less than 15% when performing round window membrane insertions. Although it is still unclear whether basal cochlear trauma influences apical cochlear function or not, adapted surgical procedures and no forceful insertion maneuvers should be used when performing cochlear implantations with hearing preservation.
A Long-Term Follow-Up Study after Split-Course Irradiation with Concurrent Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Pradier Olivier , Christiansen Hans , Ambrosch Petra , Kron Martina , Schmidberger Heinz , Hess Clemens F.
Published: May 2005

Background: Radiotherapy is often the primary treatment for advanced head and neck cancer, but the rates of locoregional recurrence are high and survival is poor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of split-course radiotherapy combined with concurrent carboplatin chemotherapy after long-term follow-up. Patients and Methods: From August 1987 to May 1994, 66 patients (54 males, 12 females, mean age 58 years) with advanced inoperable oropharynx cancer were treated at the University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany. Tumour localization in the oropharynx was: tonsil (n = 33), base of tongue (n = 28), soft palate (n = 2) and posterior pharyngeal wall (n = 3). Forty-nine patients presented with a T4 tumour, 15 were T3 and 2 were T2. The nodal status was distributed as follows: N0 (n = 7), N1 (n = 5), N2 (n = 28) and N3 (n = 26). A total radiation dose of 5,670 cGy was applied in 6 weeks as a split-course regimen (2 × 2.1 Gy/day, 4 times a week, weeks 1 and 2 and weeks 5 and 6). Concomitant carboplatin chemotherapy was given each radiotherapy day before irradiation (50 mg/m2). Results: In December 2003, 12 patients were still alive. Survivors have reached a maximum follow-up of 170.5 months (median 14.3 months). Two- and 5-year overall survival was 32 and 18%, 2-year disease-free survival 27%. Therapy was tolerated moderately (19% grade 3 skin reaction, 26% grade 3 mucositis, 23% grade 3 xerostomia, 20% grade 3 leucopenia, 8% grade 3 thrombopenia and 25% grade 3 anaemia). Conclusion: Split-course radiotherapy and concomitant carboplatin chemotherapy can be carried out in inoperable head and neck cancer without severe toxicity. After long-term follow-up, survival rates are unfavourable in this poor prognostic group of patients.
Treatment of Pediatric Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations with Linear-Accelerator-Based Stereotactic Radiosurgery: The University of Pennsylvania Experience
Authors: Maity Amit , Shu Hui-Kuo G. , Tan Jacqueline E. , Ruffer James , Sutton Leslie N. , Tochner Zelig , Lustig Robert
Published: May 2005

There are relatively few reports detailing the outcome of children and adolescents with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). We reviewed our experience over the past decade to determine whether the outcomes and toxicity were similar to those reported in adults. Seventeen patients 18 years of age or younger underwent linear-accelerator-based SRS. The targeted volume was greater than 3 cm3 in 65% of cases (range 0.7–25 cm3; median volume 6.9 cm3). The prescribed radiation doses varied from 16 to 18 Gy, with 70% receiving the highest dose. Using only angiographic data, the obliteration rate was 80% (8 of 10 patients), but using both MRA/MRI and angiographic data, it was 53% (9 of 17 patients). Four patients developed late effects potentially attributable to the radiation between 2 months and 3 years following SRS. One of these was transient and disappeared completely within a few days, but in the other 3 patients, the neurologic sequelae were permanent. Two of the 4 complications appeared to be due to radiation necrosis/edema, whereas the remaining 2 may have been due to vasculopathy. All 4 patients with complications had treatment volumes greater than 5 cm3 (5.4, 6.9, 11.1, 16.4 cm3), all had a prescribed dose of 18 Gy and all had initially presented with an AVM hemorrhage. Linear-accelerator-based SRS is effective in obliterating most AVMs in children; however, the potential for late effects exists, especially for those patients with larger target volumes.
Subacute Formation of Syrinx Post-Untethering of Spinal Cord
Authors: Grossman Rachel , Feldman Zeev
Published: May 2005

Tethered spinal cord syndrome is characterized by a pathological fixation of the cord resulting in a low situated conus medullaris below the L1–2 interspace. With growth and development, this results in excessive cord stretching causing neuronal dysfunction. Untethering of the spinal cord aims to prevent the development of neurological or orthopedic sequelae which may arise if left untreated. Various complications of this operation have been described, including pseudomeningocele, CSF fistula, and meningitis. The authors present a case of a patient who developed a symptomatic syrinx, several days following untethering of the cord. Significant neurological improvement was achieved following revision surgery. This is the first case report of a syrinx developing several days post-untethering of the cord.
Influence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection on Soluble Cellular Adhesion Molecules in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Peng Yu-Sen , Chiang Chih-Kang , Hsu Shih-Ping , Pai Mei-Fen , Hung Kuan-Yu , Kao Jia-Horng
Published: May 2005

Background/Aims: Higher levels of soluble cellular adhesion molecules have been found to be a strong indicator of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis in the general population. In hemodialysis patients, soluble cellular adhesion molecules have been found at higher levels as well. Such an increase has been considered as a sign of chronic inflammation. Chronic viral hepatitis C (HCV) infection, highly prevalent in hemodialysis patients, is also a disease that can induce chronic inflammation. We conducted a cross-sectional association study of soluble cellular adhesion molecules and hepatitis C in maintenance hemodialysis patients. Methods: A total of 87 stable hemodialysis patients were included in this study, mean age was 60.0 ± 13.7 years. Anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA assay were done.Patients were divided into anti-HCV-positive and anti-HCV-negative groups. Predialytic serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecules-1 (sICAM-1), soluble vascular cellular adhesion molecules-1 (sVCAM-1), and soluble E-selectin were assayed by commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The results were correlated with other hematological and biochemical results. Results:In the anti-HCV-positive group, the time on hemodialysis was longer (105.5 ± 65.7 vs. 49.2 ± 44.0 months, p = 0.001). The sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and E-selectin levels were higher in the anti-HCV-positive group. HCV infection was determined as an independent determinant of sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 by multiple linear regression analysis. Conclusion:Elevated serum soluble cellular adhesion molecules are multifactorial in hemodialysis patients. The role of HCV infection must be considered. The clinical significance and implications of soluble cellular adhesion molecules remains to be elucidated.
Repair Kinetics of the Stratum corneum under Repeated Insults
Authors: Uhoda Emmanuelle , Piérard-Franchimont Claudine , Debatisse Béatrice , Wang Xuemin , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: May 2005

Background: The stratum corneum (SC) structure and functions are altered by surfactants. Enhancing the repair mechanisms is a goal for some skin care formulations. Aim: To design an experimental procedure allowing the discrimination of repair efficacy for topical products applied to threatened SC. Method: Controlled SC strippings followed by repeated forearm soak sessions in surfactant solutions were used to compromise the SC barrier function in 20 volunteers. Two test formulations were compared. They were applied twice daily for 2 weeks before initiating the SC damages, and for the next 2 weeks while sustaining the procedure of soak sessions. Daily assessments involved objective measurements of parameters including transepidermal water loss, the value of the passive sustainable SC hydration and the epidermal turnover rate using the dihydroxyacetone test. Result: The experimental procedure allowed to clearly distinguish the differences in the kinetics of SC repair between the topical formulations. In the present study design, the repair of the barrier function mirrored the SC renewal. Conclusion: The present experimental design slows down the repair rate of the SC barrier function. Thus, it increases the sensitivity of biometrological measurements assessing some of the major SC properties. It also better mimics the common in vivo situation experienced by subjects chronically exposed to irritant xenobiotics.
Receptors to Steroid Hormones and Aromatase Are Expressed by Cultured Motoneurons but Not by Glial Cells Derived from Rat Embryo Spinal Cord
Authors: Rakotoarivelo Clovis , Petite Didier , Lambard Sophie , Fabre Christine , Rouleau Caroline , Lumbroso Serge , de Weille Jan , Privat Alain , Carreau Serge , Mersel Marcel
Published: May 2005

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of aromatase and receptors to steroid hormones in cultured motoneurons (MNs). We first developed an original method for obtaining rat MN cultures. Dissociated E15 rat spinal cords were purified using metrizamide and bovine serum albumin density gradients, and cells were then seeded on the culture substratum. We optimized the culture parameters and found that simple addition of rat muscle extract (ME) and conditioned culture medium (CM) from glial cell lines (GCL) derived from spinal cord were sufficient to obtain almost pure MN cultures. MNs were characterized by the presence of specific MN markers and electrophysiology. MNs could be kept alive for 2 weeks. We demonstrate that ME and CM are essential for MN development and survival respectively. Immunocytochemistry and aromatase activity assay indicated the presence of androgen and estrogen receptors as well as aromatase in MNs but not in GCL. This is the first report demonstrating the presence of both female and male sex hormone receptors and a key enzyme in steroid hormone metabolism in MNs and its absence in GCL, at least in our culture conditions. This in vitro model appears to be valuable for elucidating the impact of the sex hormone circuit in neuronal maturation. The relevance of this model for the comprehension of neurodegenerative diseases is discussed.
Involvement of NO and EDHF in Flow-Induced Vasodilation in Isolated Hamster Cremasteric Arterioles
Authors: Watanabe Sachiko , Yashiro Yasuaki , Mizuno Risuke , Ohhashi Toshio
Published: May 2005

Flow-induced vasodilation in hamster cremasteric arterioles was investigated with special reference to the roles of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). Arterioles (∼60 µm resting diameter) were cannulated, and suffused with MOPS solution at 37°C (mean intraluminal pressure: 80 cm H2O). Step increases in the perfusate flow elicited a dose-dependent vasodilation, which was almost proportional to the increases in calculated wall shear stress (WSS). Nω-nitro L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 µM) reduced the flow-induced vasodilation by ∼50%, whereas indomethacin (10 µM) produced no significant effect. In the presence of L-NAME, the residual vasodilation was eliminated by treatment with the cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase inhibitor 17-octadecynoic acid (17-ODYA, 50 µM), sulfaphenazol (10 µM), tetraethylammonium (TEA, 3 mM; a nonselective Ca2+-activated K+ channel inhibitor), or charybdotoxin (ChTX, 0.1 µM; intermediate or large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel inhibitor). In the absence of L-NAME, the dilation was also reduced by ∼50% by treatment with 17-ODYA, TEA, or ChTX. The residual vasodilation was eliminated by additional treatment with L-NAME. The inhibitor of ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP), glibenclamide, also caused a significant, but partial, reduction of the flow-induced vasodilation. The residual vasodilation was completely reduced by additional treatment with 17-ODYA, but not L-NAME. These findings suggest that in hamster cremaster, higher flow rate produces NO, KATP, and EDHF vasodilation of the arterioles under physiological conditions.
Enhancement of Nifedipine-Induced Gingival Overgrowth by Concomitant Ketoconazole in Rats
Authors: Kato Takahiro , Amano Atsuo , Kamisaki Yoshinori , Morisaki Ichijiro
Published: May 2005

Nifedipine (NIF), a calcium channel blocker, is well known to induce gingival overgrowth (GO) as an adverse effect, and ketoconazole (KTZ), an azole antifungal agent, has been implicated in various drug interactions. We here examined the effects of concomitant KTZ on NIF-induced GO in a rat model. Fifteen-day-old male Fischer rats were fed chow with NIF, KTZ, or both. After 41 days, gingival conditions were evaluated and the concentration of NIF in serum was measured. Rats fed with NIF alone had induced GO and suppressed growth, while those given KTZ alone did not. Compared to the administration of NIF alone, concomitant KTZ significantly increased the severity of GO and the concentration of NIF in serum. These results suggest that concomitant KTZ increases the serum concentration of NIF and enhances the severity of GO.
S-100B Concentration Is Not Related to Neurocognitive Performance in the First Month after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Stapert Sven , de Kruijk Jelle , Houx Peter , Menheere Paul , Twijnstra Albert , Jolles Jelle
Published: May 2005

The serum concentration of S-100B is reported to reflect the severity of brain damage. The purpose of this study was to determine whether elevated serum S-100B concentrations were related to neuropsychological test performance of patients in the subacute phase of recovery from mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). S-100B concentrations were measured in blood samples taken within 6 h after TBI. Serum S-100B was estimated using an immunoluminometric assay. Cognitive speed and memory were assessed with neuropsychological tests at a median of 13 days (range 7–21 days) after injury. The two groups, formed on a median split of initial serum S-100B concentrations (> or <0.22 µg/l) did not differ in age or education. The neuropsychological performance of the TBI patients was also compared with that of a healthy control group. Cognitive speed and memory performance of mild TBI patients were inferior compared to those of healthy subjects. There were no significant differences within the TBI group when serum S-100B concentration was taken into consideration. The findings suggest that serum S-100B levels after mild TBI are not predictive of neuropsychological performance in the subacute stage of recovery.
Feasibility of Radical Surgery in the Management of Elderly Patients with Uterine Cervical Cancer in Korea
Authors: Choi Young Sik , Kim Yun Hwan , Kang Sokbom , Jeon Yong Tark , Kim Jae Weon , Park Noh Hyun , Song Yong Sang , Kang Soon Beom , Lee Hyo Pyo
Published: May 2005

To evaluate the tolerance and the outcome of radical surgery in the management of elderly patients with uterine cervical cancer in Korea, seventy-seven patients with stage Ib or IIa squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix, diagnosed at Seoul National University Hospital from January 1996 to June 2003, were retrospectively reviewed. Sixty-six patients undergoing radical surgery were divided into two groups according to their age: 41–50 years (group A; n = 43) and 65 years or older (group B; n = 23). Statistical analysis was conducted by using Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher’s exact t test. Although group B consists of more stage IIa cases than group A (27.9 vs. 52.2%), the difference in the stage between both groups was statistically insignificant. Medical comorbidities in group B were higher than group A, primarily due to hypertension (23.3 vs. 56.5%, p = 0.014). Mean operation time, mean blood loss, perioperative transfusion, frequency of intraoperative injuries, duration of hospital stay, and postoperative complications were similar except 1 case of operation-related mortality in group B. The pathologist’s report indicated a positive resection margin of the vagina in 6 cases of group B but none in group A. The difference in parametrial involvement, lymph node involvement, lymphovascular space invasion, deep cervical wall involvement and larger tumor with a diameter >4 cm was not significant. The number of patients who received adjuvant therapy was significantly higher in group B than group A (23.3 vs. 65.2%, p = 0.001). The recurrence rate, however, was not different. Our study suggests that radical surgery in the management of elderly patients with stage Ib or IIa uterine cervical cancer is reasonably feasible. Chronological age alone should not be considered a contraindication to radical hysterectomy.
Homocysteine Induces Cell Cycle G1 Arrest in Endothelial Cells through the PI3K/Akt/FOXO Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Hong-Sheng , Cao En-Hua , Qin Jing-Fen
Published: May 2005

Objective: High levels of homocysteine (Hcy) induce a sustained injury on arterial endothelial cells, which accelerates the development of thrombosis and atherosclerosis. Hcy specifically inhibits the growth of endothelial cells. The present study investigated the signaling pathways underlying this cell-cycle effect. Methods: Human umbilical venous endothelial cells were treated with Hcy, and/or LY294002, okadaic acid, peroxovanadate (PV), antisense Akt, phosphorylation of Akt and FKHRL1 proteins. p27kip1 protein levels were measured with Western blotting, and Akt kinase activity and cell cycle were measured with immunoprecipitation and flow cytometry, respectively. Results: We demonstrate that Hcy induces dephosphorylation of Akt and FKHRL1 and upregulates the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p27kip1 in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) activator PV and phosphatase 2A inhibitor okadaic acid could reverse it, which suggests it was dependent on PI3K activity. Moreover, Hcy induces cell cycle G1 phase arrest prevented by pretreatment with PV and okadaic acid. Transfection with specific antisense oligonucleotides to Akt further proves the observations. Conclusions: The studies implied that a novel signaling pathway, PI3K/Akt/FOXO, might play an important role in mediating cell cycle G1 arrest in endothelial cells.
Automated Impedance Cardiography for Detecting Ischemic Left Ventricular Dysfunction during Exercise Testing
Authors: Scherhag A. , Pfleger S. , Garbsch E. , Buss J. , Sueselbeck T. , Borggrefe M.
Published: May 2005

Automated impedance cardiography (ICG) is an attractive method for noninvasive hemodynamic evaluation. The objective of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic value automated ICG in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). We measured stroke index (SI) and cardiac index (CI) in 65 patients with suspected CAD at rest and during bicycle exercise testing. All patients underwent subsequent cardiac catheterization including coronary angiography (CA). Depending on the results of CA, patients were divided into three groups, patients without significant CAD (group 0), single vessel disease (group 1) or multivessel disease (group 2–3). In a subset of 20 patients, automated ICG was compared to measurements of CI by the thermodilution (TD) method. Results: There were no significant differences in SI and CI at baseline between the three groups. At 75- and 100-watt exercise, patients in group 2–3 showed significantly lower mean values of SI and CI as compared to patients of group 0 and group 1 (all p < 0.05), indicating exercise-induced ischaemic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Three patients had to be excluded because of inappropriate quality of the ICG signals during exercise. Comparison of automated ICG with TD measurements of CI showed good correlations between both methods at rest (r = 0.73) and during exercise (r = 0.89–0.91). Conclusions: We conclude that hemodynamic monitoring by automated ICG is both feasible and practical during exercise testing. Automated ICG can provide reliable and valuable additional diagnostic information on LV function during exercise which is helpful for selecting those patients for angiography who are likely to benefit from coronary interventions.
A Case of Pure Red Cell Aplasia Complicated with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, T-Cell-Rich/Histiocyte-Rich Variant: Effectiveness of Rituximab and Implications for a Common Immunopathogenic Role of B Lymphocytes
Authors: Oyaizu Naoki , Kozai Yasuji , Kodo Hideki , Sunaga Shinji , Iwabuchi Keiichi , Higashihara Masaaki , Mori Shigeo
Published: May 2005

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma, T-cell-rich/histiocyte-rich variant (DLBL-TH), is characterized by the presence of neoplastic B cells set in a background containing numerous non-neoplastic T lymphocytes and histiocytes. We report here the case of a patient with DLBL-TH who developed overt pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) following chemotherapy and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. Posttransplantation bone marrow biopsies revealed the absence of erythroid precursors associated with lymphoid aggregates composed of B cells mixed with numerous T cells and histiocytes. Administration of rituximab has led to complete recovery of erythropoiesis, which was associated not only with B cell depletion but also with a marked reduction in bone marrow T cells and histiocytes. These observations strongly suggest the particular pathogenetic role of the patient’s B cells in inducing PRCA and recruiting T cells and histiocytes in situ.
Penetrating Brain Injuries from a Dog Bite in an Infant
Authors: Iannelli A. , Lupi G.
Published: May 2005

Brain lesions due to dog bites are not frequent and mainly concern infants in the first years of their life because they are short in height, the size of the infant’s head is relatively large compared to the body and the skull bones are thin. We report the case of an infant with bilateral skin, skull and brain injuries secondary to a dog bite, and review the relative reports in the literature. We stress the need to consider the possibility of penetration into the intracranial compartment occurring in cases of dog bites of the scalp, because these wounds on the scalp and the skull may appear relatively limited, small in size and slight, in spite of associated potentially dangerous deeper lesions involving the intracranial structures that may be missed on the first observation. Infection is the main possible complication, and may be the cause of permanent and serious neurological deficits. Prompt diagnosis and therapy are mandatory to avoid complications and to achieve good clinical results.