bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On permeability of methyl methacrylate, 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate and triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate through protective gloves in dentistry
Authors: Andreasson Harriet , Boman Anders , Johnsson Stina , Karlsson Stig , Barregård Lars
Published: November 2003

Continuous glove use is more common in dentistry than in most other occupations, and the glove should offer protection against blood‐borne infections, skin irritants and contact allergens. Methacrylate monomers are potent contact allergens, and it is known that these substances may penetrate the glove materials commonly used. The aim of this study was to assess the permeability of various types of gloves to methyl methacrylate (MMA), 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) with special reference to combinations with ethanol or acetone. The permeation rate and time lag breakthrough (lag‐BT) for MMA (neat, or diluted to 30% in ethanol or acetone), HEMA (30% in water, ethanol, or acetone) and TEGDMA (30% in ethanol or acetone) were investigated for different protective gloves. Nine different types of gloves were tested for one or several of these methacrylates. The lag‐BT for neat MMA was ≤ 2 min for all gloves. For 30% MMA in ethanol or acetone, the latex gloves and the polyethene‐copolymer glove showed the best protection, but the lag‐BTs were short for all gloves. For HEMA and TEGDMA, the lag‐BTs were generally longer than for MMA. A neoprene glove seemed to be the best choice for protection against penetration of HEMA and TEGDMA. The decision on which types of gloves to use should also take into account the risks of latex allergy and contact allergy to rubber chemicals and the convenience of the gloves for fine manual work.
Effects of masticatory muscle function on craniofacial morphology in growing ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: He Tailun , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: November 2003

Studying the effects of masticatory muscle function on craniofacial morphology in animal models with different masticatory systems is important for further understanding of related issues in humans. Forty 5‐wk‐old male ferrets were equally divided into two groups. One group was fed a diet of hard pellets (HDG) and the other group was fed the same diet but softened with water (SDG). Lateral and dorsoventral cephalograms were taken on each group after 6 months. Cephalometric measurements were performed by digital procedures. For SDG ferrets, the hard palate plane was more distant from the cranial base plane, and canines were more proclined compared with HDG ferrets. The SDG ferrets were also found to have smaller interfrontal and interparietal widths, and a slenderer zygomatic arch than the HDG ferrets. In the mandible, the coronoid process was generally shorter and narrower for the SDG ferrets. The effects of the altered masticatory muscle function on craniofacial morphology in growing ferrets seemed to differ from those previously reported in other animal models studied under similar experimental conditions. Such differences in the effects are presumably related to the differences in the mode of mastication, craniofacial anatomy and growth pattern in different animal models.
How light irradiance and curing time affect monomer conversion in light‐cured resin composites
Authors: Emami Nazanin , Söderholm Karl‐Johan M.
Published: November 2003

We tested the hypothesis that the degree of conversion of a light‐cured dental composite relates to the calculated (s × mW cm−2 = mJ cm−2) rather than to the irradiance value (mW cm−2) of the light source. Two light‐curable composite resins were cured with three different light irradiance values over different curing times. The specimens tested were 2, 4 or 6 mm thick, and the degree of conversion values were measured with Raman spectroscopy on the top and the bottom surfaces of the specimens. The highest conversion value of one of the materials was just below 60%, while the maximal conversion value of the other material was just below 65%. That difference in conversion values could be related to differences in monomer systems used in the two composites. By considering light energy per square centimeter (J cm−2) rather than light irradiance (mW cm−2), we found that equivalent energy values gave similar conversion values for a certain sample thickness. From these findings, we conclude that our experimental results support our hypothesis.
Modulation by thyroid hormones of rat parotid amylase secretion stimulated by 5‐hydroxytryptamine
Authors: Ostuni Mariano Aníbal , Houssay Alberto Bernardo , Tumilasci Omar René
Published: November 2003

The effects of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) upon amylase secretion by rat parotid glands were studied in three groups of animals: (a) intact control rats (euthyroid rats); (b) hypothyroid rats obtained by surgical thyroidectomy 2 wk before the experiments; and (c) hyperthyroid rats obtained by the administration of sodium l‐triiodothyronine for 2 wk before the experiments. Hyperthyroid rats showed significantly higher baseline amylase release than control rats. When the glands were stimulated with 5‐HT (30 µm), amylase release was significantly lower in the hypothyroid group and higher in the hyperthyroid rats than in control group. Addition of cholinergic, adrenergic or substance P antagonists did not modify 5‐HT‐stimulated amylase activity. The effects of 5‐HT were partly but significantly blocked by the addition of 10 µm methysergide (HT1/2/7 receptor blocker) in the three groups of rats. In contrast, 10 µm ketanserine (HT2A receptor blocker) partly blocked the response to 5‐HT only in the hyperthyroid animals. It was concluded that 5‐HT induces amylase secretion by rat parotid glands through specific serotoninergic receptors, and that thyroid status modulates the 5‐HT effect.
Asthma, ear problems, and dental anxiety among 6‐ to 8‐yr‐olds in Denmark: a population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wogelius Pia , Poulsen Sven , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: November 2003

The aim of this study was to examine the association between asthma, ear problems, and dental anxiety in children in a population‐based cross‐sectional study. The population included four municipalities in the County of North Jutland, Denmark, in 2001. A total of 1235 children aged 6–8 yr, and their parents, were identified. Data were obtained from a prescription database, from parental‐answered questionnaires, and from dental records. Children with asthma were defined as children that had received prescriptions for both inhaled β2‐agonists and corticosteroids during the past year. Data on ear problems and dental anxiety were obtained from the questionnaires. Dental anxiety was measured using the Children's Fear Survey Schedule–Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS). Use of asthma‐drugs was associated with dental anxiety (odds ratio = 1.70; 95% confidence interval 0.90–3.22). A history of often ear problems was also associated with dental anxiety (odds ratio = 1.83; 95% confidence interval 1.20–2.80). It is concluded that asthma and ear problems may be risk factors for dental anxiety in children.
Antigen dose, type of antigen‐presenting cell and time of differentiation contribute to the T helper 1/T helper 2 polarization of naive T cells
Authors: Rothoeft T. , Gonschorek A. , Bartz H. , Anhenn O. , Schauer U.
Published: November 2003

Antigenic encounter by T cells induces immunological synapse formation and T‐cell activation. Using different concentrations of toxic shock syndrome toxin‐1 (TSST‐1) as stimulus, we examined the capacities of dendritic cells (DC) and macrophages (Mφ) to prime syngeneic naive T cells. DCs were, under all experimental settings, more efficient than Mφ at clustering T cells. Translocation of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) to the contact area was found to be induced by DCs, as well as by Mφ, in an antigen‐dependent manner, although Mφ were less efficient at inducing TCR translocation. Capping of protein kinase C θ (PKCθ) was also antigen dependent but induced exclusively by DCs. Likewise, DCs were found to be more potent inducers of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) production and proliferation of naive T cells than Mφ. After 3 days of culture, DCs presenting 100 ng/ml TSST‐1 induced interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)‐secreting cells, whereas Mφ did not. After 7 days of culture, DCs presenting 0·1 ng/ml TSST‐1, and Mφ presenting high (as well as low) doses of TSST‐1, induced IL‐4‐producing cells. We therefore provide evidence to show that antigen dose, type of antigen‐presenting cell and time of differentiation can contribute to T‐cell differentiation.
Human T‐cell responses to the RD1‐encoded protein TB27.4 (Rv3878) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Agger Else Marie , Brock Inger , Okkels Limei Meng , Arend Sandra M. , Aagaard Claus S. , Weldingh Karin N. , Andersen Peter
Published: November 2003

In recent years, there has been considerable focus on the discovery and characterization of proteins derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis leading to the identification of a number of candidate antigens for use in vaccine development or for diagnostic purposes. Previous experiments have demonstrated an important immunological role for proteins encoded by the RD1 region, which is absent from all strains of bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) but present in the genomes of virulent M. bovis and M. tuberculosis. Herein, we have studied human T‐cell responses to the antigen encoded by the putative open reading frame (rv3878) of the RD1 region. Immunoblot analysis revealed that rv3878 was expressed and the native protein was designated TB27.4. Immunological evaluations demonstrate that TB27.4 elicits a prominent immune response in human tuberculosis patients with a dominant region in the C‐terminal part of the molecule. In contrast, very limited responses were seen in M. bovis BCG‐vaccinated donors. This study therefore emphasizes the diagnostic potential of proteins encoded by the RD1 region.
Up‐regulation of C5a receptor expression and function on human monocyte derived dendritic cells by prostaglandin E2
Authors: Weinmann Oliver , Gutzmer Ralf , Zwirner Jörg , Wittmann Miriam , Langer Katja , Lisewski Margarete , Mommert Susanne , Kapp Alexander , Werfel Thomas
Published: November 2003

The expression of the C5a‐receptor (C5aR) on dendritic cells, its regulation and function have not been well established thus far. We show that the C5aR is expressed on human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DC) and can be down‐regulated by maturation stimuli such as tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or CD40L and by the T helper 1‐cytokine interferon‐γ (INF‐γ). Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a proinflammatory mediator supporting dendritic cell activation and necessary for adequate DC migration, leads to the up‐regulation of C5aR expression when incubated alone and prevents down‐regulation when given in combination with TNF‐α or LPS. Stimulation of C5aR on DC triggered F‐actin polymerization, indicating the chemotactic potential of DC elicited by C5a. C5a induced F‐actin polymerization was increased when C5aR was up‐regulated by PGE2. Stimulation of DC with C5a resulted in interleukin‐10 production which was significantly increased after C5aR up‐regulation with TNF‐α and PGE2. Therefore, up‐regulation of the C5aR on human DC alters their chemotactic and immunologic response to C5a.
Autoreactive responses to an environmental factor: 1. phthalate induces antibodies exhibiting anti‐DNA specificity
Authors: Lim So‐Yon , Ghosh Swapan K.
Published: November 2003

Environmental factors have been implicated in the induction of autoimmune disorders. We report here that a common chemical, phthalate, used widely in synthetic polymers and cosmetics induces serum anti‐self DNA antibodies in BALB/c, NZB and autoimmune‐prone NZB/W F1 mice. The latter group experiences a high mortality, and significantly higher anti‐DNA antibody levels along with nephritis and other histopathologic changes in kidney. Comparison of amino acid sequences of an anti‐phthalate BALB/c B‐cell hybrid, 2C3 with the known database at the National Center for Biotechnology Information reveals a striking homology between the variable regions of 2C3‐Ig (γ1, κ) and an anti‐DNA antibody, BV04‐01 (γ2b,κ) isolated from the lupus‐prone NZB/W F1 mice. The homology is 98% for κ light chain and 70% for γ heavy chain. Like 2C3‐Ig, BV04‐01 also has specificity for d(pT)4. Furthermore, the light chains of both 2C3‐Ig and BV04‐01 are products of Vκ1 gene. To understand the nature of anti‐phthalate responses in general, hybridomas generated from phthalate–keyhole limpet haemocyanin‐primed BALB/c splenocytes were characterized. The study identifies cross‐reactive populations that strongly bind phthalate, DNA, or both. Of the 14 hybridomas evaluated, six express the same Vκ1 gene‐derived light chain as 2C3, and bind both phthalate and ds and ss‐DNA. They specifically recognize the oligonucleotides, d(pT)4, and d(pT)10. Additionally, when antisera raised against idiopeptides corresponding to 2C3‐Ig hypervariable regions are allowed to react with 2C3‐Ig, their binding is blocked specifically by both d(pT)4 and phthalate. This study clearly demonstrates that phthalate exposure leads to activation of a significant number of autoreactive B‐cells, with the consequence of a significant pathogenic progression in susceptible NZB/W F1 mice but not in non‐autoimmune‐prone BALB/c.
Monitoring enzymatic reactions in nanolitre wells
Authors: Young I. T. , Moerman R. , Van Den Doel L. R. , Iordanov V. , Kroon A. , Dietrich H. R. C. , Van Dedem G. W. K. , Bossche A. , Gray B. L. , Sarro L. , Verbeek P. W. , Van Vliet L. J.
Published: November 2003

We have developed a laboratory‐on‐a‐chip microarray system based on nanolitre‐capacity wells etched in silicon. We have devised methods for dispensing reagents as well as samples, for preventing evaporation, for embedding electronics in each well to measure fluid volume per well in real‐time, and for monitoring the fluorescence associated with the production or consumption of NADH in enzyme‐catalysed reactions. Such reactions can be found in the glycolytic pathway of yeast. We describe the design, construction and testing of our laboratory‐on‐a‐chip. We also describe the use of these chips to measure both fluorescence (such as that evidenced in NADH) as well as bioluminescence (such as evidenced in ATP assays). We show that our detection limit for NADH fluorescence is 5 µm with a microscope‐based system and 100 µm for an embedded photodiode system. The photodiode system also provides a detection limit of 2.4 µm for ATP/luciferase bioluminescence.
The molecular machines of DNA repair: scanning force microscopy analysis of their architecture
Authors: Janićijević A. , Ristic D. , Wyman C.
Published: November 2003

The application of scanning force microscope (SFM, also called atomic force microscope or AFM) imaging to study the architecture of proteins and their functional assemblies on DNA has provided new and exciting information on the mechanism of vital cellular processes. Rapid progress in molecular biology has resulted in the identification and isolation of proteins and protein complexes that function in specific DNA transactions. These proteins and protein complexes can now be analysed at the single molecule level, whereby the functional assemblies are often described as nanomachines. Understanding how they work requires understanding their structure and functional arrangement in three dimensions. The SFM is uniquely suited to provide three‐dimensional structural information on biomolecules at nanometre resolution. In this review we focus on recent applications of SFM to reveal detailed information on the architecture and mechanism of action of protein machinery involved in safeguarding genome stability through DNA repair processes.
Self‐assembly and recrystallization of bacterial S‐layer proteins at silicon supports imaged in real time by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Györvary E. S. , Stein O. , Pum D. , Sleytr U. B.
Published: November 2003

The self‐assembly of bacterial surface‐layer (S‐layer) proteins (SbpA of Bacillus sphaericus CCM 2177) at silicon supports (hydrophobic, non‐plasma‐treated and hydrophilic, O2 plasma‐treated silicon supports) was imaged in real time by atomic force microscopy (AFM). A closed mosaic layer consisting of small crystals (less than 200 nm in diameter) was formed at a hydrophobic silicon support, whereas a coherent crystalline lattice consisting of large domains (2–10 µm in size) was generated at O2 plasma‐treated, hydrophilic silicon wafers. The structure of the formed layers was a monolayer (9 nm in height) at the hydrophobic silicon and a bilayer (15 nm in height) at the hydrophilic silicon. In situ AFM measurements confirmed the importance of ionic bonds in the formation of crystalline SbpA layers at silicon supports. Rupture of the protein subunits with a metal chelator from the crystalline lattice of SbpA was visualized in situ by AFM. The stability of solid‐supported SbpA layers could be enhanced by cross‐linking the S‐layers with amino–amino or amino–carboxyl group directed cross‐linkers.
The effect of seminal vesicle‐sparing radical prostatectomy on serum prostate‐specific antigen level
Authors: John H. , Hauri D. , Maake C.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if the remaining seminal vesicle tips can affect serum levels of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) in patients after seminal vesicle‐sparing radical prostatectomy (SVRP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty‐six patients were treated by either radical retropubic prostatovesiculectomy (23) or SVRP (13). Serum PSA was monitored in all patients before surgery, and at 6 weeks and 30 months afterward. Samples of normal seminal vesicles from radical cystectomies (six) were also snap‐frozen and either processed for semiquantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) using primers against PSA and α‐actin (for normalization) or for PSA immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

RT‐PCR and sequencing showed that the seminal vesicles synthesise PSA mRNA. Furthermore, PSA peptide was detectable in the glandular epithelium of the seminal vesicle using immunohistochemical methods. There was no significant difference in serum PSA levels after standard or SVRP, with median (range) values (ng/mL) at 6 weeks of 0.04 (0.04–0.9) and 0.04 (0.04–0.66) and at 30 months of 0.17 (0.04–3.8) and 0.22 (0.04–58.2), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although the seminal vesicles produce PSA, the PSA derived from the remaining seminal vesicle tips after SVRP has no effect on the oncological follow‐up of these patients.
Retinal vascular findings and penile cavernosal artery blood flow
Authors: Kawanishi Y. , Kimura K. , Nakanishi R. , Numata A. , Taguchi H.
Published: November 2003

Authors from Japan attempt to correlate retinal vascular changes with cavernosal arterial blood flow. They studied patients with erectile dysfunction, but excluded patients with previous pelvic surgery, pelvic injury or diabetes. They found that penile changes can be anticipated from retinal vascular changes seen on fundoscopy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the correlation between retinal vascular findings and penile cavernosal arterial blood flow, as it is probable that systemic atherosclerotic vascular disease is important in male erectile dysfunction (ED), and being systemic, it might be possible to evaluate the extent of atherosclerosis from retinal vascular findings.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 75 patients with ED; any with a history of pelvic injury, pelvic surgery, or diabetes mellitus were excluded. All patients gave fully informed consent. Ocular fundus photographs were taken with an automatic‐focus fundus camera under amydriatic conditions. Three ophthalmologists, unaware of the patients’ detailed data, evaluated the photographs using Hyman's classification to evaluate retinal vascular findings. Blood flow in the penile cavernosal artery was measured with colour Doppler ultrasonography, and the peak systolic velocity used as a haemodynamic variable. Correlations among the peak systolic velocity, retinal vascular findings and vascular risk factors (including hypertension, age, cigarette smoking, and hyperlipidaemia) were investigated using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 75 patients, 72 (96%) had both right and left retinal vascular images of sufficient quality for evaluation; 37 were classified as normal and 35 as Grade I, while no patient was Grade II. From a logistic regression multivariate analysis, the peak systolic velocity was the only significant factor correlating with retinal vascular findings, with an odds ratio of 3.34. In contrast, hypertension, age, cigarette smoking and hyperlipidaemia did not correlate significantly with the retinal vascular findings. Similarly, the retinal vascular finding was the only significant factor correlating with the peak systolic velocity of cavernosal blood flow (odds ratio 3.28) and again hypertension, age, cigarette smoking and hyperlipidaemia were not significant factors.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the assumption that penile erectile function is one of the diseases of atherosclerosis, and emerges nearly simultaneously with retinal vascular disease. It is possible to predict penile arterial conditions in patients with ED from their retinal vascular findings. Thus, amydriatic fundoscopy, a simple practical examination, may be helpful for primary physicians in diagnosing and treating ED.
Ion‐channel currents of smooth muscle cells isolated from the prostate of guinea‐pig
Authors: Oh S.‐J. , Kim K.M. , Chung Y.‐S. , Hong E.‐K. , Shin S.Y. , Kim S.J.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the voltage‐activated ion‐channel currents in guinea‐pig prostate smooth muscle cells (GPSMCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

GPSMCs were isolated using collagenase, and used in a whole‐cell patch clamp study.

RESULTS

When GPSMCs were dialysed with a CsCl solution all the outward K+ currents were blocked and the step‐like depolarization (holding voltage − 70 mV) of the cell membrane evoked inward currents that were completely blocked by nifedipine (1 µmol/L). With KCl solution, step depolarizations showed outward K+ currents composed of fast, transient outward current (Ito) and outward currents that did not inactivate. Ito was resistant to a high concentration of tetraethylammonium (TEA, 5 mmol/L) but was blocked by 4‐aminopyridine (5 mmol/L). The half‐activation and half‐inactivation voltages of Ito were 6 mV and − 58 mV, respectively. With low Ca2+ buffer (0.1 mmol/L EGTA) in the solution, there were spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) at depolarized membrane voltages (0 mV). STOCs were blocked by TEA (1 mmol/L) or iberiotoxin (10 nmol/L) but were insensitive to apamin (100 nmol/L).

CONCLUSION

This voltage‐clamp study showed that GPSMCs have l‐type Ca2+ channels and more than two types of K+ channels. The voltage‐ and time‐dependent changes of these ion channels and their interactions might be important in forming action potentials and regulating contractility.
A novel pyrrole derivative, NS‐8, suppresses the rat micturition reflex by inhibiting afferent pelvic nerve activity
Authors: Tanaka M. , Sasaki Y. , Kimura Y. , Fukui T. , Hamada K. , Ukai Y.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the suppressive effect of a newly synthesized compound, 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐5‐(2‐fluorophenyl)‐4‐methylpyrrole (NS‐8), on micturition, and its mode and sites of action in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female rats were anaesthetized with urethane, and isovolumetric bladder contractions and cystometrograms recorded. The pelvic afferent discharges from the bladder were also monitored.

RESULTS

In the cystometric study, NS‐8 increased the bladder capacity without affecting the maximum bladder contraction pressure, an effect unlike that of currently used anticholinergic drugs for the overactive bladder, which commonly decrease the maximum bladder contraction pressure. Intravesical and intravenous injection of NS‐8 inhibited isovolumetric bladder contractions in a dose‐dependent manner without affecting their amplitude, whereas intracerebroventricular injection with NS‐8 had no such effect. During the urine storage phase of the cystometrogram, NS‐8 decreased the discharge rate of the afferent pelvic nerve from the bladder, in association with a decrease in the increase in intravesical pressure.

CONCLUSION

NS‐8 suppressed the micturition reflex by decreasing afferent pelvic nerve activity. Activation of calcium‐sensitive potassium channel of the bladder may be responsible for such an effect. This agent has the potential to treat patients with urinary frequency and incontinence.
Metoidioplasty: a variant of phalloplasty in female transsexuals
Authors: Perovic S.V. , Djordjevic M.L.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To describe metoidioplasty, a technique for creating a neophallus from an enlarged clitoris in female transsexuals, without needing the complex, multi‐staged surgical construction of a large phallus, as this reconstruction is one of the most difficult in female transsexuals.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From September 1995 to April 2002 metoidioplasty was used in 22 patients (aged 18–33 years). The technique is based on the repair of the most severe form of hypospadias and intersex. The ‘urethral plate’ and urethra are completely dissected from the clitoral corporeal bodies, then divided at the level of the glanular corona, and the clitoris straightened and lengthened. A longitudinal vascularized island flap is designed and harvested from the dorsal skin of the clitoris, transposed to the ventral side, tubularized and anastomosed with the native urethra. The new urethral meatus is brought to the top of the neophallus, and the skin of the neophallus and scrotum reconstructed using labia minora and majora flaps.

RESULTS

The mean (range) follow‐up was 3.9 (0.5–6) years; the neophallus was 5.7 (4–10) cm, considered satisfactory in 17 patients but the remaining five required additional phalloplasty. The complications were urethral stenosis in two and fistula in three patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Metoidioplasty is an alternative to phalloplasty, allowing voiding while standing. In patients who desire a larger phallus, various techniques of phalloplasty can also be used.
The prevalence of nocturia and its effect on health‐related quality of life and sleep in a community sample in the USA
Authors: Coyne K.S. , Zhou Z. , Bhattacharyya S.K. , Thompson C.L. , Dhawan R. , Versi E.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of nocturia and its effects, with and without concomitant overactive bladder (OAB, i.e. urgency, frequency, urge incontinence and nocturia), on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and sleep.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A national survey was conducted in the USA to assess the prevalence of OAB and nocturia. A nested case‐control study was conducted among respondents with OAB symptoms and age‐ and gender‐matched controls, with participants completing a series of questionnaires on HRQoL (OAB‐q, Short Form‐36, and Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) sleep scale). Descriptive analyses, t‐tests, analysis of variance with post hoc comparisons and multivariate regressions were used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

In all, 5204 people participated in the survey, with 919 in the nested case‐control study. The sample population had a mean age of 45.8 years, was 52.6% female and 80% Caucasian. In the community sample, 31% reported > 1 void/night and 14.2% reported > 2 voids/night. The prevalence of nocturia increased with age, with no gender differences. For OAB cases, 66.8% reported > 1 void/night and 42.2% reported > 2. In the case‐control cohort there were significant HRQoL differences (P < 0.01), with increasing episodes of nocturia in all OAB‐q subscales except social interaction. The amount of sleep per night was significantly correlated with the sleep, concern and social interaction OABq subscale scores. The number of nocturia episodes/night was also significantly (P = 0.02) associated with the number of hours of sleep/night.

CONCLUSION

Nocturia is widely prevalent and increases with age, affecting men and women equally. Incremental increases in the number of voids/night have further negative effects on sleep, symptom bother, and HRQoL.
The effect of erectile dysfunction on the quality of life of men after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Meyer J.‐P. , Gillatt D.A. , Lockyer R. , Macdonagh R.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To report on the first use of a quality‐of‐life (QoL) measure specific for erectile dysfunction (ED), the ‘ED effect on QoL’ (ED‐EQoL), to assess the effect of ED on QoL after radical prostatectomy (RP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively identified 89 patients who had undergone RP at one institution. Each was sent the ED‐EQoL and a second questionnaire asking whether they had been counselled before RP about possible ED afterward.

RESULTS

The response rate was 91% and the median time since RP 92 months; 76% of those who were potent before RP were impotent afterward. The overall results showed that the QoL of 72% of patients was moderately or severely affected. For each question, on average a third of the patients reported that their QoL was affected either ‘quite a lot’ or ‘a great deal’.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that ED after RP has a profound effect on QoL; it is therefore important when assessing ED to use an ED‐specific QoL questionnaire such as the ED‐EQoL to measure the psychosocial effect of ED, in addition to using an instrument such as the International Index of Erectile Function to measure the functional aspects of ED.
Outcome of patients with continent urinary reconstruction and a solitary functioning kidney
Authors: Shaaban A.A. , Mosbah A. , Abdel‐Latif M. , Mohsen T. , Mokhtar A.A.
Published: November 2003

Authors from Mansoura evaluated the outcome of patients with continent urinary diversion who had a single functioning kidney. They recommend a regular follow‐up of renal function in such patients. They found that rectal diversion was associated with a higher renal functional loss than orthotopic or cutaneous reservoirs. In the second article, the authors from Cairo describe the value of dynamic three‐dimensional spiral CT cysto‐urethrography in evaluating post‐traumatic posterior urethral defects.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of patients with continent urinary diversions who had a solitary functioning kidney at the time of surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 62 patients with continent urinary reservoirs and a solitary functioning kidney were reviewed (51 men and 11 women). The indications for surgery were bladder cancer in 54 and a contracted bladder in eight. The surgical procedures included an orthotopic ileal neobladder in 36 patients, a continent cutaneous ileal reservoir in 13 and rectal diversion in 13. Kidneys were evaluated using serum creatinine level, ultrasonography, intravenous urography and other radiological studies.

RESULTS

The follow‐up was 6–173 months; 44 renal units (71%) remained stable during this period. Serum creatinine was increased in four patients with an orthotopic neobladder, with no evidence of obstruction or reflux, in one with preoperative renal impairment and one with voiding dysfunction, reflux and bacteriuria. Six renal units deteriorated because of uretero‐intestinal strictures; of these patients, two were treated endoscopically, two with open ureteric reimplantation, one with conversion from a rectal reservoir to an ileal loop conduit, and one was maintained on JJ stenting. Six patients with a rectal diversion had renal deterioration because of chronic pyelonephritis.

CONCLUSIONS

A regular follow‐up of renal function is mandatory in patients with a continent urinary diversion. Rectal diversion is associated with a higher risk of renal deterioration (54%) than are orthotopic (28%) and cutaneous reservoirs (8%).
Eradication of Helicobacter pylori by 7‐Day Triple‐Therapy Regimens Combining Pantoprazole with Clarithromycin, Metronidazole, or Amoxicillin in Patients with Peptic Ulcer Disease: Results of Two Double‐Blind, Randomized Studies
Authors: Bochenek Wieslaw J. , Peters Suzanne , Fraga Polly D. , Wang Wenjin , Mack Michael E. , Osato Michael S. , El‐Zimaity Hala M. T. , Davis Kelly D. , Graham David Y.
Published: November 2003

Aim.  To compare the short‐term (7‐day) safety and efficacy of two triple‐therapy regimens using pantoprazole with those of two dual‐therapy regimens (one with pantoprazole and one without), for Helicobacter pylori eradication in patients with peptic ulcer disease.

Methods.  H. pylori infection was identified by rapid urease (CLOtest), and confirmed by histology and culture. Patients were enrolled into one of two randomized, double‐blind, multicenter, parallel‐group studies. In study A, patients received oral pantoprazole 40 mg, clarithromycin 500 mg, and metronidazole 500 mg (PCM); pantoprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin 1000 mg (PCA); or pantoprazole and clarithromycin (PC). In study B, patients received PCM, PCA, PC, or clarithromycin and metronidazole without pantoprazole (CM). Treatments were given twice daily for 7 days. H. pylori status after therapy was assessed by histology and culture at 4 weeks after completing the course of study treatment. Modified intent‐to‐treat (MITT; each study: n = 424, n = 512) and per‐protocol (PP; each study: n = 371, n = 454) populations were analyzed. The MITT population comprised all patients whose positive H. pylori status was confirmed by culture and histology; the PP population comprised patients who also complied with ≥ 85% of study medication doses.

Results.  A total of 1016 patients were enrolled. Cure rates among patients with clarithromycin‐susceptible H. pylori strains were 82 and 86% for PCM, and 72 and 71% for PCA, in studies A and B, respectively. Cure rates among patients with metronidazole‐susceptible H. pylori strains were 82 and 87% for PCM, and 71 and 69% for PCA, in studies A and B, respectively. The combined eradication rates observed with the PCM regimen were superior to those of all other regimens tested. Side‐effects were infrequent and mild.

Conclusions.  PCM had the highest overall eradication rate in these two studies examining 7‐day treatment regimens. All regimens were safe and well tolerated.
Development of Barrett's Esophagus after ‘Spontaneous’ Healing of Atrophic Corpus Gastritis
Authors: Kokkola Arto , Sipponen Pentti , Haapiainen Reijo , Rautelin Hilpi , Karjalainen‐Lindsberg Marja‐Liisa , Puolakkainen Pauli
Published: November 2003

We report here the case of a 58‐year‐old asymptomatic male smoker who had a gastroscopy performed in 1990 because of a low serum pepsinogen I level (16 µg/l). The patient had severe atrophic corpus gastritis and elevated Helicobacter pylori antibody titers, but no histologic evidence of the bacteria. Additionally, a hiatal hernia without esophagitis was seen. He was followed up endoscopically because of the atypical changes (indefinite for dysplasia) in addition to atrophic gastritis in some of the gastric biopsy samples. During the follow‐up period, H. pylori antibody titers declined to normal levels without eradication therapy, and atrophic gastritis healed. The patient developed first erosive esophagitis, and, 5 years later, a 3‐cm‐long Barrett's esophagus was detected.
Helicobacter pylori‐Associated Chronic Gastritis and Unexplained Iron Deficiency Anemia: a Reliable Association?
Authors: Nahon Stéphane , Lahmek Pierre , Massard Julien , Lesgourgues Bruno , De Serre Natacha Mariaud , Traissac Laurent , Bodiguel Viviane , Adotti Françoise , Delas Nicolas
Published: November 2003

Background and aim.  About 35% of iron deficiency anemia cases remain unexplained after a gastrointestinal evaluation. An association between Helicobacter pylori and iron malabsorption has been suggested. The aim of this study was to determine whether H. pylori‐associated chronic gastritis is linked to unexplained iron deficiency anemia in adults.

Methods.  From 1996 to 2001, we identified 105 patients with unexplained iron deficiency anemia after upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, small bowel radiographic examination and duodenal biopsies. Two biopsies were obtained from the gastric antrum and two from the corpus of each patient. Gastritis status was described according to the Sydney System and H. pylori infection was assessed by an immunohistochemical test on biopsy specimens. This group was compared to a control group matched for sex and age.

Results.  There were 76 women and 29 men (mean age 57.4 ± 21.4 years) examined in the study. A H. pylori‐associated chronic gastritis was identified in 63 cases (60%) vs. 45 cases (43%) cases in the control group (p < .01). Atrophic gastritis was significantly associated with iron deficiency anemia compared with the control group [16 (15%) vs. 6 (6%); p < .03]. In the unexplained iron deficiency anemia group, (1) patients with chronic gastritis were significantly younger (52 ± 22 vs. 64 ± 20 years; p < .005), and (2) chronic gastritis was not linked to sex [sex ratio (male/female): 0.5 vs. 0.34, p = .34]. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was similar between premenopausal and postmenopausal women [28 (27%) vs. 26 (25%); p = .7] with iron deficiency anemia.

Conclusion.  H. pylori infection and chronic gastritis, especially atrophic gastritis, are significantly associated with unexplained iron deficiency anemia. Relationships between H. pylori‐associated chronic gastritis and unexplained iron deficiency anemia should be considered.
Helicobacter pylori Infection and Gastric Autoimmune Diseases: Is There a Link?
Authors: Presotto Fabio , Sabini Beatrice , Cecchetto Attilio , Plebani Mario , Lazzari Franca De , Pedini Beniamino , Betterle Corrado
Published: November 2003

Background.  Helicobacter pylori is thought to be involved in atrophic body gastritis. We explored the prevalence of H. pylori infection in asymptomatic subjects with gastric parietal cell antibodies, as well as in patients with pernicious anemia, to evaluate a possible role of H. pylori gastric infection in gastric autoimmunity.

Patients and Methods.  We studied 79 consecutive asymptomatic subjects with parietal cell antibodies, 24 patients with pernicious anemia, and 66 parietal cell antibody‐negative controls. All patients underwent gastric biopsies for histology and detection of H. pylori. Red blood cell count and volume, serum levels of gastrin, pepsinogen I, iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, and circulating antibodies to H. pylori and to intrinsic factor were also determined.

Results.  We found an atrophic body gastritis in 14 of the 79 asymptomatic subjects with parietal cell antibodies (18%) and in 2 of the 66 controls (3%) (p = .01). Mean levels of gastrin were increased (p < .0001), while those of pepsinogen were reduced (p < .001) compared with controls. H. pylori was identified at the gastric level and/or circulating anti‐H. pylori antibodies were detected in 46 parietal cell antibody‐positive subjects (58%) compared with 26 controls (39%) (p = .03). In patients with pernicious anemia we found an atrophic body gastritis in 18 of 24 cases (75%) (p < .001 vs. controls). Mean levels of gastrin were markedly increased (p < .0001) and those of pepsinogen I decreased (p < .0001) relative to controls. Only five of these patients (21%) had evidence of H. pylori infection compared with 46 of the parietal cell antibody‐positive subjects (58%) (p = .003) and 26 of the controls (39%). Considering all patients with gastric autoimmunity (i.e. with parietal cell antibodies and/or with pernicious anemia), H. pylori was found in 44 of 72 of those without atrophy (61%) but in 6 of 31 with gastric body atrophy (19%) (p < .001), indicating that H. pylori infection is greatly reduced when gastric acid secretion decreases.

Conclusions.  The frequent detection of H. pylori infection in subjects with early gastric autoimmunity, indicated by the presence of parietal cell antibodies, suggests that H. pylori could have a crucial role in the induction and/or the maintenance of autoimmunity at the gastric level.
Combining doxorubicin and liposomal anti‐HER‐2/NEU antisense oligodeoxynucleotides to treat HER‐2/NEU‐expressing MDA‐MB‐435 breast tumor model
Authors: Waterhouse Dawn N. , Gelmon Karen A. , Masin Dana , Bally Marcel B.
Published: November 2003

This study assessed the in vivo therapeutic activity of an antisense molecule targeted against HER‐2/neu mRNA. Antisense activity was evaluated in female SCID/Rag2m mice bearing subcutaneous tumors derived from HER‐2/neu‐transfected MDA‐MB‐435 (MDA‐MB‐435HER2) cells, a transfected line derived from the human breast cancer MDA‐MB‐435 cell line. Animals were treated with free or liposome‐encapsulated antisense. The area under the curve (AUC0–24h) of the liposomal formulated antisense was demonstrated to be more than 30‐fold greater than that of free antisense following intra‐ venous administration. Efficacy was determined by assessing changes in tumor growth rate as well as by an immunohistological end‐point evaluating HER‐2/neu expression. HER‐2/neu protein expression was reduced in mice bearing HER‐2/neu‐transfected MDA‐MB‐435 tumors when treated with liposomal antisense. However, tumors in these mice grew at a faster rate than the control, a result that was interpreted to be a consequence of selection of a more rapidly proliferating HER‐2/neu‐negative subpopulation of cells. Effective control of the MDA‐MB‐435HER2 tumors was achieved when antisense treatment was combined with doxorubicin. Tumors derived from animals treated with the combination of doxorubicin and the liposomal antisense against HER‐2/neu exhibited no detectable levels of HER‐2/neu expression. Antisense targeted against HER‐2/neu mRNA was effective in reducing or eliminating HER‐2/neu protein expression, and when combined with doxorubicin treatment was efficacious in the treatment of mice bearing HER‐2/neu‐overexpressing human xenograft tumors.
Effects ofDQ-113, a New Quinolone, against Methicillin- and Vancomycin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
-Caused Hematogenous PulmonaryInfections inMice
Authors: Kaneko Yukihiro , Yanagihara Katsunori , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Tsukamoto Kazuhiro , Hirakata Yoichi , Tomono Kazunori , Kadota Jun-ichi , Tashiro Takayoshi , Murata Ikuo , Kohno Shigeru
Published: November 2003

We
compared the effects of DQ-113, a new quinolone, to those of vancomycin
(VCM) and teicoplanin (TEIC) in murine models of hematogenous pulmonary
infections caused by methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus
aureus
(MRSA) and VCM-insensitive
S. aureus
(VISA). The
MICs of DQ-113, VCM, and TEIC for MRSA were 0.125, 1.0, and 0.5μ
g/ml, respectively; and those for VISA were 0.25, 8.0, and 8.0μ
g/ml, respectively. Treatment with DQ-113 resulted in a
significant decrease in the number of viable bacteria in the lungs of
the mice used in the MRSA infection model (counts in mice treated with
DQ-113, VCM, and TEIC and control mice, 6.33 ± 0.22, 7.99±
0.14, 7.36 ± 0.20, and 8.47 ± 0.22
log
10
CFU/lung [mean ± standard error of the
mean], respectively [
P
< 0.01 for
the group treated with DQ-113 compared with the group
treated with VCM or TEIC or the untreated group]). Mice infected
with VISA were pretreated with cyclophosphamide, and the survival rate
was recorded daily for 10 days. At the end of this period, 90%
of the DQ-113-treated mice were still alive, whereas only 45 to
55% of the mice in the other three groups were still alive
(
P
< 0.05 for the group treated with DQ-113 compared
with the group treated with VCM or TEIC or the untreated group]).
DQ-113 also significantly (
P
< 0.05) reduced the
number of viable bacteria in the lungs compared with those in the lungs
of the other three groups (counts in mice treated with DQ-113, VCM, and
TEIC and control mice, 5.76 ± 0.39, 7.33 ± 0.07, 6.90±
0.21, and 7.44 ± 0.17 log
10
CFU/lung,
respectively). Histopathological examination revealed milder
inflammatory changes in DQ-113-treated mice than in the mice in the
other groups. Of the antibiotics analyzed, the parameters of area under
the concentration-time from 0 to 6 h (AUC
0-6
)/MIC
and the time that the AUC
0-6
exceeded the MIC were the
highest for DQ-113. Our results suggest that DQ-113 is potent and
effective for the treatment of hematogenous pulmonary infections caused
by MRSA and VISA
strains.
Prevalence and Molecular Epidemiology of CTX-MExtended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing
Escherichia coli
and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
in RussianHospitals
Authors: Edelstein M. , Pimkin M. , Palagin I. , Edelstein I. , Stratchounski L.
Published: November 2003

A
total of 904 consecutive nosocomial isolates of
Escherichia
coli
and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
collected from 28 Russian
hospitals were screened for production of extended-spectrumβ
-lactamases (ESBLs). The ESBL phenotype was detected in 78
(15.8%)
E. coli
and 248 (60.8%)
K.
pneumoniae
isolates. One hundred fifteen isolates carried the
genes for CTX-M-type β-lactamases, which, as shown by
PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, were distributed
into the two genetic groups of CTX-M-1 (93%)- and CTX-M-2
(7%)-related enzymes. Isolates producing the enzymes of the
first group were found in 20 hospitals from geographically distant
regions of the country and were characterized by considerable diversity
of genetic types, as was demonstrated by enterobacterial repetitive
consensus PCR typing. Within this group the CTX-M-3 and the CTX-M-15β
-lactamases were identified. In contrast, the enzymes of the
CTX-M-2 group (namely, CTX-M-5) were detected only in eight clonally
related
E. coli
isolates from a single hospital. Notably, the
levels of resistance to ceftazidime were remarkably variable among the
CTX-M producers. This study provides further evidence of the global
dissemination of CTX-M type ESBLs and emphasizes the need for their
epidemiological
monitoring.
In Vivo Selection of a Chromosomally Encodedβ-Lactamase Variant Conferring Ceftazidime Resistance in
Klebsiellaoxytoca
Authors: Mammeri Hedi , Poirel Laurent , Nordmann Patrice
Published: November 2003

Klebsiella
oxytoca
clinical isolate A was recovered from the urine of a
55-year-old man with prostatic and urinary tract infections. This
isolate displayed a β-lactam resistance phenotype consistent
with overproduction of a chromosomally encoded class Aβ
-lactamase and had decreased susceptibilities to allβ
-lactams except ceftazidime, cephamycins, and carbapenems.
Four weeks after treatment with an antibiotic regimen that included
ceftazidime,
K. oxytoca
isolate B, which had a high level of
resistance to ceftazidime, was isolated from the urine of the same
patient. Isoelectric focusing analysis of the culture extracts of these
isolates gave a pI of 5.4 for both isolates. Cloning experiments with
the PCR products of the
bla
OXY
gene resulted in two
Escherichia coli
DH10B recombinant clones with resistance
phenotypes mirroring those of the parental isolates. Sequencing
analysis revealed that the

bla
OXY-2-5

gene from
K. oxytoca
B had a single nucleotide substitution compared to
the sequence of the
bla
OXY-2
gene from
K.
oxytoca
A, leading to a proline-to-serine substitution at position
167, according to the numbering of Ambler. Biochemical analysis of
purified OXY-2-5 showed that it had the ability to hydrolyze
ceftazidime. This is the first report of in vivo selection of a
K.
oxytoca
isolate that produced a chromosomally encodedβ
-lactamase conferring resistance to
ceftazidime.