bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Medial Olivocochlear Bundle System Function in Children with Auditory Processing Disorders
Authors: Muchnik Chava , Ari-Even Roth Daphne , Othman-Jebara Rima , Putter-Katz Hanna , Shabtai Esther L. , Hildesheimer Minka
Published: February 2004

A common complaint of children with auditory processing disorders (APD) is difficulty in understanding speech in the presence of background noise. Evidence from animal and human studies has suggested that the medial olivocochlear bundle (MOCB) may play a role in hearing in noise. The MOCB function can be evaluated by the suppression effect of the transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) in response to contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS). The present study was conducted to investigate the suppression effect of TEOAE in APD children. The study groups comprised 15 APD children aged 8–13 years associated with learning disabilities and 15 controls matched for gender and age. The suppression effect of TEOAE was evaluated by comparing the TEOAE levels with and without CAS. A significantly reduced suppression effect of TEOAE was demonstrated in the APD group, when compared to the controls. In addition, higher TEOAE levels were found in the APD group, suggesting inherent reduced MOCB activity on the outer hair cells in APD children. These results imply that some APD children present low activity of the MOCB system, which may indicate a reduced auditory inhibitory function and affect their ability to hear in the presence of background noise.
Ménière’s Disease: Effects of Glycerol on Tasks Involving Temporal Processing
Authors: Chung Brian J. , Hall Joseph W. , Buss Emily , Grose John H. , Pillsbury Harold C.
Published: February 2004

The present study examined the effect of glycerol ingestion on aspects of auditory performance in subjects having Ménière’s disease. It was hypothesized that Ménière’s disease may be associated with abnormal firing in the auditory nerve and that this should result in a decreased ability to code the auditory temporal fine structure. Psychoacoustical measures of interaural time discrimination and quasi frequency modulation rate discrimination were used as measures of temporal coding, and performance on these tasks was examined both before and after glycerol ingestion. Pre- and postglycerol measures of speech recognition and audiometric thresholds were also obtained. In agreement with previous results, glycerol-related changes in audiometric thresholds were modest or absent, but improvements in speech recognition were relatively reliable. Improvements in interaural time discrimination and quasi frequency modulation rate discrimination were also observed. The results provide limited support for the hypothesis that Ménière’s disease may be associated with a reduced ability to code the temporal fine structure of sound.
Stratum Corneum Maturation
Authors: Chiou Y.B. , Blume-Peytavi U.
Published: February 2004

The importance of the stratum corneum and its barrier function for infants, especially for newborns, is clinically evident. Research regarding the maturation of the stratum corneum in neonates, i.e. when full barrier function is obtained, has produced varying results. Based on transepidermal water loss and percutaneous absorption studies, term infants seem to possess stratum corneum with adult barrier properties. Additionally, postnatal life is thought to accelerate stratum corneum maturation, so that even preterm infants have barrier function similar to term infants at 2–3 weeks of gestational age. However, a look at other parameters, such as skin thickness, skin pH and stratum corneum hydration, shows that neonatal skin is always adjusting to the extrauterine environment in contrast to the steady state of adult skin. This suggests that barrier stabilization may be dependent on achieving a balance between different parameters. However, it is still in question, which parameters, what balance and what timing. This paper provides an up-to-date overview on the neonatal skin barrier based on the review of current literature.
Actinic Keratosis: The Key Event in the Evolution from Photoaged Skin to Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Oppel T. , Korting H.C.
Published: February 2004

Skin aging is the result of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Extrinsic aging, also called photoaging, is mainly caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun and leads to a state which has been termed dermatoheliosis. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of photoaged skin addressing actinic keratoses (AKs) in particular. This review will describe the clinical features of photoaged skin and briefly summarize the underlying histological, photobiochemical and molecular mechanisms responsible for photoaging. The concept of the disease continuum from AK to squamous cell carcinoma will also be presented. A special focus will be on established and new therapeutic approaches to undo photoinduced skin damage.
Synergistic Effect of N-Acetylglucosamine and Retinoids on Hyaluronan Production in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Sayo T. , Sakai S. , Inoue S.
Published: February 2004

Hyaluronan (HA) is well known to reside in the extracellular matrix as a water-sorbed macromolecule. The aims of this study were twofold: to investigate the regulation of HA synthesis in keratinocytes, and to develop a method to modulate this regulatory process. We found that N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) increased the production of HA by cultured keratinocytes dose dependently, but had no effect on the production by skin fibroblasts. The effect of NAG in keratinocytes was found to be specific for HA production, as there was no change in sulfated glycosaminoglycan formation. The copresence of NAG with either of two retinoids, retinoic acid (RA) or retinol, exerted a synergistic effect on HA production. To investigate whether human HA synthase (HAS) genes were regulated by NAG or retinoids, total RNA extracted from cells treated with these agents was subjected to Northern blot analysis. We observed that RA and retinol markedly induced the expression of HA synthase-3 (HAS3) mRNA. Moreover, β-carotene, a provitamin A, influenced HA production and HAS3 gene expression in a manner similar to the retinoids. Conversely, NAG had no effect on the expression of HAS3 transcripts. Pretreatment of cells with RA stimulated the activity of membrane-associated HAS, whereas pretreatment with NAG did not. These results suggest that HA production is regulated by at least two pathways: one involving the regulation of HAS gene expression, and the other independent of such a regulatory effect. Taken together, our findings suggest that NAG is a new modulator of HA synthesis.
Lateral Diffusion of Ibuprofen in Human Skin during Permeation Studies
Authors: Schicksnus G. , Müller-Goymann C.C.
Published: February 2004

In order to characterize the quality of dermal preparations, permeation studies using human stratum corneum or artificial skin constructs are carried out. For a better understanding of the diffusion processes a method to measure the lateral diffusion in skin samples was developed allowing an estimation of built-up drug depots. By extracting concentric skin segments surrounding the site of application, lateral drug diffusion was determined. Both, excised human skin and artificial skin constructs, showed comparable results with two phases of lateral diffusion (accumulation/redistribution). The use of permeation enhancers promoted lateral diffusion and thus increased the tendency to create a drug depot within the skin.
Dithranol in an Emulsifying Oil Base (Bio-Wash-Oil) for the Treatment of Psoriasis of the Scalp
Authors: Wulff-Woesten A. , Ohlendorf D. , Henz B.M. , Haas N.
Published: February 2004

On the scalp, dithranol has been studied in only a few trials. The dithranol molecule that contains both hydrophilic and lipophilic centers can be incorporated into detergents and allows easy removal from hair. This property has led to the incorporation of dithranol in an emulsifying oil base (bio-wash-oil). The formulation has been used routinely for more than two decades in East Germany. We reexamined the efficacy and safety of dithranol in bio-wash-oil and compared it to dithranol embedded in crystalline monoglycerides (Micanol®) in patients with psoriasis of the scalp. In a prospective, parallel group study, 64 patients attending a day-care clinic were randomly allocated to 3 treatment groups: (1) dithranol in bio-wash-oil; (2) Micanol® cream, and (3) Micanol® cream in bio-wash-oil. Treatment was carried out for 3 weeks and results assessed using a modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score. Dithranol in bio-wash-oil resulted in a reduction in the score of 34% on day 7 and 57% on day 14. This was significantly better than in groups 2 and 3, as were the overall response and patients’ assessment at the end of treatment (p < 0.05). Dithranol in a bio-wash-oil is an effective, well-tolerated and low-priced treatment in psoriasis of the scalp.
EEMCO Guidance for the Assessment of Hair Shedding and Alopecia
Authors: Piérard G.E. , Piérard-Franchimont C. , Marks R. , Elsner P.
Published: February 2004

Knowledge of the hair follicle anatomy and the dynamics of hair cycling is substantial. Recognizing the anagen, catagen and telogen phases as well as teloptosis and the hair eclipse phenomenon clearly characterizes the typical hair chronobiology. Physiological modulators include hormones, neuromediators, miscellaneous biomolecules, seasons, micro-inflammation and ageing. For individuals who present with the complaint of increased hair shedding or alopecia, a host of evaluation techniques are available in addition to history, physical examination and laboratory assessment. Various clinical hair techniques can help in assessing the efficacy of drugs and cosmetics on hair growth. The methods are quite similar to those used to establish a definite diagnosis in dermatological practice. Great strides have been made during the recent decades in the methodology of hair growth trials in dermatology and cosmetology. Clinical evaluations benefit from a few additional specific techniques that enhance the perception of hair (re-) growth, shedding and alopecia. These assessments include the determination of hair patterning and density that may be helped by the ‘black-and-white felt’ examination. Daily hair counts, the ‘hair pull test’ and the ‘hair feathering test’ are also available. Instrumental methods provide reliable quantitative information that is useful if there are adequate controls. Some photographic methods, the trichogram, hair weighing and variants of the hair growth window technique including the phototrichogram, videotrichogram and tractio-phototrichogram provide insight into the complexities of hair cycling and shedding. Skin biopsy is indicated for diagnostic purposes, especially when the hair loss is accompanied by scarring.
From Bone Biology to Bone Analysis
Authors: Schoenau E. , Saggese G. , Peter F. , Baroncelli G.I. , Shaw N.J. , Crabtree N.J. , Zadik Z. , Neu C.M. , Noordam C. , Radetti G. , Hochberg Z.
Published: February 2004

Bone development is one of the key processes characterizing childhood and adolescence. Understanding this process is not only important for physicians treating pediatric bone disorders, but also for clinicians and researchers dealing with postmenopausal and senile osteoporosis. Bone densitometry has great potential to enhance our understanding of bone development. The usefulness of densitometry in children and adolescents would be increased if the physiological mechanisms and structural features of bone were given more consideration in the design and interpretation of densitometric studies. This review gives an overview on the most relevant techniques of quantitative noninvasive bone analysis. Furthermore it describes the relationship between bone biology, selected surrogates describing the biological processes and the possibilities of measuring these surrogates specifically and precisely by the different devices. The overall recommendation for researchers in this field is to describe firstly the biological process to be analyzed (bone growth in length, remodeling or modeling, or all together), secondly the bone parameter which describes this process, and thirdly the reason for selecting a special device.
Alteration of Integrins under Hypoxic Stress in Early Placenta and Choriocarcinoma Cell Line BeWo
Authors: Iwaki Takayuki , Yamamoto Koji , Matsuura Toshiki , Sugimura Motoi , Kobayashi Takao , Kanayama Naohiro
Published: February 2004

Invasion of the trophoblast into the decidua and the myometrium is very important for the establishment of a normal pregnancy. This invasion is regulated by the expression of integrins in the trophoblast. Recently, it has been shown that invasion of the trophoblast is impaired in preeclampsia. We report the effect of hypoxia on the expression of integrins and extracellular matrices at the mRNA level in early placenta and BeWo cells. Tissue RNA levels of fibronectin and integrin α5 were significantly higher in the hypoxic condition than under normoxic conditions. In contrast, tissue RNA levels of integrin α1 were significantly lower for the hypoxic condition than those under normoxic conditions. Alteration of the integrin components and increases in fibronectin expression were observed in early placenta and BeWo cells under hypoxic conditions. These results suggest that hypoxic stress regulates the synthesis of integrin and fibronectin mRNAs in early placenta.
Association of the TNF2 Allele with Eclampsia
Authors: Kaiser Thomas , Grehan Madonna , Brennecke Shaun P. , Moses Eric K.
Published: February 2004

The genetic background predisposing pregnant women to the disorder pre-eclampsia/eclampsia (PE/E) is still unknown. There is compelling evidence to suspect involvement of the immune system in the development of PE/E. The aim of this current study was to investigate whether there is an association between the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α –307 polymorphism and PE or eclampsia. In this study, 51 cases of eclampsia, 122 cases of PE and 100 normotensive control cases were genotyped for the TNF-α –307 polymorphism. We found a significant difference between the TNF2 allele frequencies of eclamptic and normotensive controls (χ2 = 6.3 and p = 0.025), but not of pre-eclamptic and normotensive controls (χ2 = 0.5 and p = 1.0). We conclude from this study that the TNF2 allele contributes to the occurrence of eclampsia in our population.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor mRNA Expression and Autophosphorylation in Human Myometrium and Leiomyoma
Authors: Martin Chaves E.B. , Brum I.S. , Stoll J. , Capp E. , Corleta H.v.E.
Published: February 2004

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common tumors of the genital tract. Growth factors seem to be implicated in the development of leiomyoma. The aim of this study was to determine insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1-R) mRNA levels and IGF-1-R tyrosine kinase activity in normal myometrium and leiomyoma. Plasma membranes of myometrium and leiomyoma of 14 women subjected to hysterectomy were prepared, and samples were incubated in the absence or presence of recombinant human IGF-1 to assess the tyrosine kinase activity (Western blot). Reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction with specific primers for IGF-1-R was used to determine IGF-1-R mRNA levels. IGF-1-R mRNA levels in myometrium (0.8216 ± 0.096) and in leiomyoma (0.7905 ± 0.136) were not statistically significantly different (p = 0.648). The degree of IGF-1-R autophosphorylation stimulated by recombinant IGF-1 was not different in myometrium (1.020 ± 0.120) and leiomyoma (1.620 ± 0.656) either (p = 0.075). There was no difference in IGF-1-R expression and IGF-1-R autophosphorylation between normal myometrium and leiomyoma.
Indices of Oxidative Stress in Eutopic and Ectopic Endometria of Women with Endometriosis
Authors: Öner-İyidoğan Yıldız , Koçak Hikmet , Gürdöl Figen , Korkmaz Düzgün , Buyru Faruk
Published: February 2004

This study was designed to determine the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and some of the lipid peroxidation indices (malondialdehyde and total sulfhydryl groups) in eutopic and ectopic endometria of patients with endometriosis. Ectopic endometrial tissues (ovarian cysts; n = 22) were obtained laparoscopically during the preovulatory period. Statistical analyses were made using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The levels of malondialdehyde and total sulfhydryl groups were similar in the eutopic and ectopic endometria, whereas the superoxide dismutase activity was found to be significantly higher in the latter (1,893 ± 780 vs. 3,512 ± 1,502 U/g protein; p = 0.002). Although the glutathione peroxidase activity was slightly lower in the ectopic than in the eutopic tissues, the difference was not found to be statistically significant. The malondialdehyde levels were positively correlated with the plasma 17β-estradiol concentrations in the ectopic endometria (r = 0.683, p = 0.001). No such correlation was seen in the eutopic tissue. It is suggested that various factors, such as cytokines released by activated macrophages in the peritoneal fluid and 17β-estradiol itself synthesized by the ovaries, may locally affect the oxidant status of ectopic endometria.
Brugada Syndrome – An Under-Recognized Electrical Disease in Patients with Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Juang Jyh-Ming , Huang Shoei K. Stephen
Published: February 2004

In 1992, Brugada and Brugada described 8 patients with a history of aborted sudden death and a distinct ECG pattern of right bundle-branch block with ST segment elevation in leads V1–V3 and normal QT interval in the absence of any structural heart disease. It is called Brugada syndrome now and is believed to be responsible for 4–12% of all sudden deaths and around 20% of deaths in patients with structurally normal hearts. Although this syndrome is observed worldwide and the exact prevalence is unknown, it is more common in the Southeast Asian countries. Repeated syncope, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death have been reported in patients with Brugada syndrome. The clinical presentation of Brugada syndrome is distinguished by a male predominance and the appearance of arrhythmic events at an average age of 40 years. The Brugada syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner with incomplete penetrance and an incidence ranging between 5 and 66 per 10,000. The surface ECG manifestations of the syndrome can transiently disappear, but can be unmasked by potent sodium channel blockers in some cases. Mutations of the cardiac sodium channel SCN5A have been detectable in <20% of patients with Brugada syndrome. Recent genetic studies have confirmed the genetic heterogeneity of the disorder. Antiarrhythmic drugs appear to be of little use in prolonging survival and in preventing recurrences of ventricular arrhythmias. To date, implantable cardioverter defibrillator remains the best therapy to prevent sudden death in these patients.
Application of Tissue Doppler Imaging in Cardiology
Authors: Nikitin Nikolay P. , Witte Klaus K.A.
Published: February 2004

Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) is a new echocardiographic technique employing the Doppler principle to measure the velocity of myocardial segments and other cardiac structures. It is well suited for the measurement of long-axis ventricular function. Impairment of longitudinal myocardial fiber motion is a sensitive marker of early myocardial dysfunction and ischaemia, and TDI might therefore become an important tool in routine echocardiography. The technique allows truly quantitative measurement of regional myocardial function both at rest and during stress echocardiography. TDI has great potential in the diagnosis of diastolic left ventricular dysfunction, overcoming the load-dependence of conventional Doppler techniques. Right ventricular function, intracardiac and pulmonary artery pressures, transplant rejection and intraventricular dyssynchrony can also be assessed. This article reviews the current and evolving applications of TDI in cardiology.
Which Features of the Metabolic Syndrome Predict the Prevalence and Clinical Outcomes of Angiographic Coronary Artery Disease?
Authors: Anderson Jeffrey L. , Horne Benjamin D. , Jones Heath U. , Reyna Sandra P. , Carlquist John F. , Bair Tami L. , Pearson Robert R. , Lappé Donald L. , Muhlestein Joseph B.
Published: February 2004

Background: The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MS) is growing. The Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III provided a uniform definition of MS but no information on its predictive ability. Methods: We tested the ability of MS and its components to predict angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD) and incident death/myocardial infarction (D/MI) over 2.8 ± 2.3 years in a large cohort of patients undergoing angiography. ATP-III criteria were used for fasting glucose (FG), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and blood pressure (BP); body mass index (BMI) >27 kg/m2 was used as a surrogate for waist circumference. Results: 3,128 subjects were studied; 65% had advanced CAD (≧70% stenosis), and 35%, no CAD. MS was present in 64% (high FG 40%; high TG 52%; low HDL 71%; high BP 76%; high BMI 58%). Presence of CAD was predicted by MS [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.30, 95% CI 1.10–1.55, p = 0.003] and, individually, by high FG (OR = 1.90, CI 1.63–2.23) and low HDL (OR = 1.38, CI 1.18–1.62). In multivariable modeling, CAD was predicted by high FG (OR = 1.80, CI 1.51–2.16) and low HDL (OR = 1.57, CI 1.31–1.89) as well as by age, gender, family history, smoking, and LDL cholesterol (all p < 0.001). For secondary risk of incident D/MI, only high FG of MS features was predictive (adjusted hazard ratio 1.46, CI 1.17–1.82, p = 0.001), and this risk was carried by diabetes (adjusted hazard ratio 1.71, p < 0.001); other predictors were age, heart failure, revascularization strategy, renal insufficiency, prior MI, and number of diseased vessels. Conclusion: MS has primary predictive ability for CAD, carried primarily by high FG and low HDL. Secondary predictive ability of MS features for clinical outcomes, in the setting of established CAD, is carried by diabetes alone. Dysglycemia deserves specific attention as a target for prevention and treatment.
Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Patients with Left Main Disease
Authors: Hirose Hitoshi
Published: February 2004

Background: Multivessel off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been performed with favorable results in our institute. In this study, we analyzed the outcomes in patients who underwent off-pump CABG for left main disease, since the surgical outcomes for such patients have not been clarified. Methods: Between March 1, 1999 and July 30, 2002, a total of 147 patients with left main disease (112 males and 35 females, mean age 66.9 ± 9.8 years) underwent off-pump CABG. Perioperative and follow-up data were entered into a structured database and the results were analyzed. Results: Urgent or emergent surgery was performed in 25 patients (17.0%), and a preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump was used in 12 patients (8.2%). The mean number of bypass grafts was 3.2 ± 1.0, and complete revascularization was performed in 127 patients (86.4%). There were 4 incidences of intraoperative conversion from off-pump to on-pump surgery. The mean intubation period, intensive care unit stay and postoperative hospital stay were 9.4 ± 13.0 h, 2.3 ± 1.4 days and 13.4 ± 7.3 days, respectively. There was 1 hospital death (0.7%). Postoperative myocardial infarction was observed in 2 patients (1.4%), postoperative stroke in 1 (0.7%), prolonged ventilator support in 5 (3.4%) and mediastinitis in 3 (2.0%). During the follow-up period of 2.1 ± 1.0 years, there were 4 deaths and 7 cardiac events. The actuarial 3-year survival rate was 97.0%, and the event-free rate was 94.3%. Conclusion: Our observations support off-pump CABG as a surgical option with a favorable outcome for patients with left main disease.
The Electrical T-Axis and the Spatial QRS-T Angle Are Independent Predictors of Long-Term Mortality in Patients Admitted with Acute Ischemic Chest Pain
Authors: de Torbal Anneke , Kors Jan A. , van Herpen Gerard , Meij Simon , Nelwan Stefan , Simoons Maarten L. , Boersma Eric
Published: February 2004

Objective: To investigate whether the orientation of the electrical T-axis and the spatial QRS-T angle provide independent diagnostic and prognostic information in patients presenting with acute chest pain. Methods: Patients with symptoms suggestive of acute cardiac pathology, who were seen by a general practitioner and for whom a prehospital electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded by the ambulance service between 1992 and 1994 were investigated. The ECGs (n = 2,261) for our study population were stored for off-line analysis by the Modular ECG Analysis System. QRS- and T-axes were computed from the reconstructed vectorcardiographic X, Y and Z leads. During the year 2000, a follow-up of the entire cohort was performed, and the vital status of the patients was determined via the civil registrar’s office. Cox multivariable regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relation between the orientation of the T-axis, the spatial QRS-T angle and long-term mortality. Results: An abnormal orientation of the T-axis and the spatial QRS-T angle were associated with an increased likelihood of cardiac diseases and an increased risk of all-cause mortality during short- and long-term follow-up. Conclusions: We conclude that the frontal T-axis and the spatial QRS-T angle are important determinants of diagnosis and prognosis in patients presenting with acute chest pain. The reintroduction of vectorcardiography in routine clinical practice might therefore be reconsidered.
Different Type and Localization of CD44 on Surface Membrane of Regenerative Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells in vivo
Authors: Xie Yuansheng , Nishi Shinichi , Fukase Sachiko , Nakamura Hiroaki , Chen Xiangmei , Imai Naofumi , Sakatsume Minoru , Saito Akihiko , Ueno Mitsuhiro , Narita Ichiei , Yamamoto Toshio , Gejyo Fumitake
Published: February 2004

Background: CD44 is a transmembrane glycoprotein comprising an extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail. Previous studies demonstrated that CD44 was generally restricted to lateral-basal plasma membrane (PM) of epithelial cells, whether it localized on apical PM in vivo has not been clarified. Methods: In this study, we used a gentamicin-induced acute tubular necrosis (ATN) and spontaneous recovery model in rats and two distinct antibodies, an anti-rat distal extracellular domain (OX49) of standard CD44 (CD44-OX49) and an anti-rat CD44 cytoplasmic tail (CD44CPT), to survey the localization of CD44-OX49 and CD44CPT on the PM in renal tubular epithelial cells in different recovery stages after ATN with immunohistochemistry and immunoelectron-microscopic examinations. Results: CD44-OX49 was localized not only on the lateral-basal PM in tubular epithelial cells, but also on the apical surface membrane in PCNA-positive newly regenerative tubular epithelial cells in early recovery stages after ATN. However, CD44CPT was only localized on the lateral-basal PM. The immunoelectron-microscopic results showed that CD44-OX49 localization was changed from the apical to lateral to basal surface membrane in renal tubular epithelial cells during the recovery process after ATN, finally disappearing from basal PM when normal polarized epithelial cells formed. Conclusions: These results suggest that there were two types of CD44 including CD44 without a cytoplasmic tail localizing on the apical surface membrane related to newly regenerative epithelial cells, and CD44 with a cytoplasmic tail localizing on the lateral-basal PM related to establishment of tubular epithelial cell polarity after ATN in vivo.
Carotid Plaque Echomorphology and Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels
Authors: Heliopoulos I. , Papazoglou D. , Piperidou H. , Vadikolias K. , Maltezos E. , Artemis N.
Published: February 2004

Neovascularization in atherosclerotic plaques plays an essential role in the progression and rupture of plaques. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an important angiogenic factor. Echomorphologic evaluation of carotid plaques using computer-assisted imaging was found to have a good correlation with the histology of the lesion. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the serum VEGF level could be a determinant of the echomorphology of the carotid plaque. In 28 carotid plaques causing 60–99% stenosis, serum VEGF levels and the mean gray value (MGV) of three-dimensional image of the carotid plaques were measured. A statistically significant inverse correlation was found between serum VEGF concentrations and MGVs (Spearman’s correlation coefficient: –0.415, p = 0.028). Our finding indicates that in patients with ≧60% carotid stenosis the serum VEGF levels are associated with the echogenicity of the atherosclerotic plaque.
Resveratrol, a Red Wine Constituent Polyphenol, Protects from Ischemia-Reperfusion Damage of the Ovaries
Authors: Hascalik Seyma , Celik Onder , Turkoz Yusuf , Hascalik Mehmet , Cigremis Yılmaz , Mizrak Bulent , Yologlu Saim
Published: February 2004

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of resveratrol on histopathological changes, antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation, in torsion-detorsion injury in rat ovaries. Method: To determine whether ischemia followed by reperfusion can induce ovarian oxidative damage, we created a model of adnexal ischemia-reperfusion by using rats. Ischemia was induced by unilateral occlusion of the tubo-ovarian vessels for 3 h. Reperfusion was achieved by releasing the occlusion and restoring the circulation for 3 h. Thirty-two adult female albino rats were divided equally into 4 groups: sham operation, torsion, saline/detorsion and resveratrol/detorsion. Rats in the torsion group were killed after 360° clockwise adnexal torsion for 3 h. Resveratrol was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before detorsion in the resveratrol/detorsion group, and saline was administered in the saline/detorsion group. After 3 h of adnexal detorsion in both of these groups, the rats were killed and adnexa were removed. The tissue levels of malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione and xanthine oxidase activity were measured. Results: Malondialdehyde and xanthine oxidase levels in the saline/detorsion group were increased significantly when compared to the torsion and sham operation groups (p < 0.001). Malondialdehyde levels in the resveratrol group were lower than in the saline/detorsion group, and differences between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Xanthine oxidase levels in the resveratrol group were lower than in the saline/detorsion and torsion groups, and differences between these groups were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Reduced glutathione levels in the saline/detorsion group were decreased significantly when compared to the torsion and sham operation groups. Reduced glutathione levels in the resveratrol group were significantly higher than in the saline/detorsion group (p < 0.006). Histological examination showed a significant improvement in ovarian morphology in the resveratrol-treated rats compared with the ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion groups. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that intraperitoneal resveratrol administration reduced the lipid peroxidation products of ischemic rats and ovarian damage was reduced as indicated by histological examination.
Gram-Negative Bacterial Endotoxin- Induced Infertility: A Birds Eye View
Authors: Deb Kaushik , Chatturvedi Madan Mohan , Jaiswal Yogesh Kumar
Published: February 2004

Alleviation of infertility on the one hand and development of improved methods of contraception on the other are global concerns to woman’s health. The molecular signals that regulate implantation are of clinical relevance since understanding the nature of these signals may lead to strategies to correct implantation failure and to develop novel contraceptive approaches. The other pressing concern is the poor pregnancy rate resulting from in vitro fertilization (IVF). The pregnancy rate in IVF programs remains about 20–30% in spite of the high rate of successful fertilization. This has led to the proposition that additional uterine factors, critical for the implantation process, must be limiting. Identification of such parameters could help in determining the appropriate physiological state of the uterus for embryo transfer. Several factors are known to have a direct or indirect impact on the ability of the uterus to develop to a functionally receptive state. This would disrupt the normal coordination between embryonic and uterine development even though all molecular players may seem otherwise normal.
The Influence of Prelabor Rupture of the Membranes on the Levels of Oral Mucosal Immunoglobulins in the Neonate
Authors: Seidel Bastian Manfred , Schubert Simone , Labitzke Birgit , Borte Michael
Published: February 2004

Oral mucosal immunoglobulins play an important role in the human immune system as a first-line defense against viral and bacterial infection. Secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), IgD and the free secretory component (FSC) can be determined in the first days of life; however, it is yet unknown which events influence the local synthesis of the immunoglobulins. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of prelabor rupture of the membranes (PROM) within a period of 24 h on the synthesis of oral mucosal sIgA, IgD, FSC and albumin of neonates in their first day of life. Comparison of 35 neonates with a history of PROM with a control group of 44 term neonates revealed no significant differences neither with respect to sIgA, IgD, FSC nor to albumin. The results indicate that PROM within a period of 24 h does not significantly increase the synthesis of oral mucosal immunoglobulins in neonates in the first day of life.
Monochorionic Triplets following Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A Report of Two Consecutive Cases
Authors: Ulug Ulun , Jozwiak Esra Aksoy , Mesut Ali , Bener Faruk , Bahceci Mustafa
Published: February 2004

Monochorionic triplet pregnancies are very rare. Here we report 2 cases of multiple pregnancies with monochorionic triplets following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and day 3 embryo transfer. The 2 women concomitantly underwent controlled ovarian hyperstimulation due to male factor infertility. Following oocyte retrieval, ICSI and assisted hatching (AH) were performed, and the 2 women conceived consecutively. One patient had a quadruplet pregnancy, which included monochorionic triplets, while the other had monochorionic triplets. Selective embryo reduction by intracardiac KCl injection targeted at 2 of the triplets was performed on the patient with the quadruplet pregnancy, but the third triplet also died. The gestation continued as a singleton pregnancy, and the patient gave birth to a healthy female baby at 38 weeks. The other patient gave birth to 3 healthy female babies at 34 weeks. Possible etiologic factors for the formation of monozygotic splitting among women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment are discussed.
Mosquito Allergy: Immune Mechanisms and Recombinant Salivary Allergens
Authors: Peng Zhikang , Simons F. Estelle R.
Published: February 2004

Reactions to mosquito bites are immunological in nature, with the involvement of IgE-, IgG- and T lymphocyte-mediated hypersensitivities. Acquired desensitization to mosquito saliva may occur during childhood and adolescence or during long-term exposure to mosquito bites. Due to the lack of salivary preparations, allergic reactions to mosquito bites are underdiagnosed and undertreated. Recombinant mosquito saliva allergens with biological activity are being developed. These recombinant allergens will significantly improve diagnosis of mosquito allergy and eventually will also improve specific immunotherapy for patients with systemic reactions to mosquito bites.
Allergenic Components of Indian Jujube (Zizyphus mauritiana) Show IgE Cross-Reactivity with Latex Allergen
Authors: Lee Mey-Fann , Chen Yi-Hsing , Lan Joung-Liang , Tseng Chiang-Yuan , Wu Chii-Huei
Published: February 2004

Background: ‘Latex-fruit syndrome’ has been well documented. A prevalence of latex allergy among medical workers of 6.8–8.6% had been reported in Taiwan. However, there has been no study to determine the importance and type of fruit hypersensitivity in latex-allergic patients in Taiwan. This study aimed to identify the allergenic components of Indian jujube (Zizyphus mauritiana) and characterize the cross-reactivity of specific IgE antibodies to latex allergen. Methods: Crude extracts were prepared from Indian jujube and from ammoniated natural rubber latex, and six medical workers and one patient with a history of fruit allergy underwent skin testing with routine allergens, latex, Indian jujube and other fruits. Sera from two Indian jujube skin test-positive latex-allergic subjects were used for allergen-specific IgE, immunoblotting, immunoblot inhibition and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) inhibition studies. Results: Both patients had positive skin test responses and specific IgE assays to Indian jujube and latex extracts. Immunoblotting revealed that IgE from both subjects bound to a 42-kD latex protein and a 42-kD Indian jujube protein. In addition, IgE from one subject bound to a 30-kD Indian jujube protein. Preincubation of atopic sera with Indian jujube or latex extract demonstrated absent and/or marked inhibition of IgE binding. Moreover, anti-Indian jujube protein antibody-based ELISA was able to detect latex extracts. Conclusions: Our results add to findings regarding the ‘latex-fruit syndrome’ described in the literature, and further study of the cross-reacting allergens identified in Indian jujube may help to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this syndrome.
IgE Binding to Raw and Boiled Shrimp Proteins in Atopic and Nonatopic Patients with Adverse Reactions to Shrimp
Authors: Samson Karen Thursday R. , Chen Fen Hua , Miura Katsushi , Odajima Yasuhei , Iikura Yoji , Rivas Maria Naval , Minoguchi Kenji , Adachi Mitsuru
Published: February 2004

Background: Characterization of seafood allergens is important to understand the immune response to these allergens. Moreover, a detailed comparison between atopic and nonatopic patients with adverse reactions to shrimp has never been reported. Methods: Raw and boiled shrimp extracts were analyzed by immunoblotting using sera from 9 atopic and 7 nonatopic patients with a history of adverse reactions to shrimp, and 13 control subjects. Total IgE, specific IgE and skin prick tests (SPT) to shrimp were also investigated. Results: The level of specific IgE to shrimp was higher in atopic patients than nonatopic patients (p < 0.05). Symptoms, SPT results and major allergens involved were similar in atopic and nonatopic patients. The 16.5-kD protein had the highest frequency of IgE binding followed by the 40-kD protein in these patients. Other minor IgE-binding proteins were observed at the 20-, 22-, 54-, 72-, 129- and 140-kD regions. Patients who had binding to the 16.5-kD protein had either positive (25% raw/31% cooked) or negative (13% raw/cooked) CAP-FEIA-RAST, while patients who recognized the 40-kD protein all had positive (31% raw/19% cooked) CAP-FEIA-RAST. All control subjects had negative immunoblots for these two proteins. Conclusion: The 16.5-kD protein was the most frequent protein identified regardless of CAP-FEIA-RAST results, while the 40-kD protein was only present in patients with positive CAP-FEIA-RAST. Therefore, 16.5-kD protein may be an important allergen that is clinically relevant in both atopic and nonatopic patients with adverse reactions to shrimp even if it is not detected by the CAP-FEIA-RAST system.
Alginic Acid Oligosaccharide Suppresses Th2 Development and IgE Production by Inducing IL-12 Production
Authors: Yoshida Tadashi , Hirano Aki , Wada Hanae , Takahashi Koji , Hattori Makoto
Published: February 2004

Background: Since allergen-specific IgE is directly involved in the type I allergic reaction, development of a method for inhibiting Th2 responses which lead to the induction of IgE production would be a useful approach for preventing allergic disorders. The ability and mechanism of alginic acid oligosaccharide (ALGO), an oligosaccharide obtained from natural edible polysaccharide, for suppressing Th2 responses was examined in detail. Methods: Lymph node cells obtained from β-lactoglobulin (β-LG)-primed BALB/c mice were cultured in vitro with an antigen for 3 days in the absence or presence of ALGO. The amount of cytokine in each culture supernatant was measured. The effect of ALGO on Th2 development was also examined by using ovalbumin specific T cell receptor transgenic mice. Antibody production in the serum of BALB/c mice that had been immunized with β-LG or β-LG plus ALGO was investigated. Results: The production of IFN-γ induced by antigen stimulation was upregulated by ALGO in a dose-dependent manner. IL-12 production was also enhanced by ALGO, and the addition of the anti-IL-12 antibody to the culture abrogated the effect of ALGO. On the other hand, IL-4 production by antigen-stimulated splenocytes of transgenic mice was suppressed in the presence of ALGO. Furthermore, IgE production by ALGO-treated mice was significantly inhibited compared with control mice. Conclusions: These results indicate that ALGO suppressed antigen-induced Th2 development by inducing IL-12 production. ALGO also inhibited in vivo IgE production. These findings suggest that ALGO is expected to be an edible anti-allergic agent.
The Prevalence of Allergic Sensitisation in Immigrant Children in the Netherlands
Authors: van Amsterdam J.G.C. , Bischoff E.W.M.A. , Hady M. , Opperhuizen A. , Steerenberg P.A.
Published: February 2004

Background: Differences in the prevalence of allergic sensitisation have been reported in immigrant children living in the same urban environment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of allergic sensitisation in school children of Dutch, Turkish and Moroccan origin. Methods: The prevalence of sensitisation to aero-allergens was assessed using the skin prick test in a non-selected sample of 512 children (response rate 54%) living in the same inner city district of Utrecht. In addition, exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was determined. Results: The prevalence of allergic sensitisation was dependent on the ethnic origin. As compared with Dutch children (19.1%), a higher prevalence of allergic sensitisation was observed in immigrant children for whom both parents were born in Turkey (23.6%, not significant) or Morocco (30.6%, p < 0.05). The prevalence of allergic sensitisation in Dutch children was nearly 2 times lower than the reported prevalence in German children. In all sensitised children, the mean FeNO value was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in non-sensitised children, and the mean FeNO level was highest in Moroccan children sensitised to indoor allergens. Conclusion: In the Netherlands, immigrant children show a higher prevalence of allergic sensitisation as compared to Dutch children.
Aspirin Sensitivity and IgE Antibodies to Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxins in Nasal Polyposis: Studies on the Relationship
Authors: Pérez-Novo Claudina A. , Kowalski Marek L. , Kuna Piotr , Ptasinska Anetta , Holtappels Gabriele , van Cauwenberge Paul , Gevaert Philippe , Johannson Sgo , Bachert Claus
Published: February 2004

Background: Nasal polyposis is a multifactorial disease characterized by a chronic eosinophilic inflammation of the sinus mucosa, often associated with asthma and aspirin sensitivity. We have recently shown that the presence of IgE antibodies to Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins (SAEs) was related to the severity of eosinophilic inflammation in nasal polyp tissue. In this study, we therefore aimed to determine, whether aspirin sensitivity was related to an immune response to SAEs, and how both criteria would be related to eosinophilic inflammation. Methods: 40 subjects with nasal polyposis (NP) were classified as aspirin-sensitive (n = 13, ASNP) or aspirin-tolerant (n = 27, ATNP) based on a bronchial aspirin challenge test. Homogenates prepared from nasal polyp tissue and inferior nasal turbinates from healthy subjects (n = 12) were analyzed for concentrations of IL-5 by enzyme immunoassay and for ECP, total and IgE to a mix of SAEs (A, C, TSST-1) using the ImmunoCAP system. Results: Concentrations of IL-5, ECP, total IgE, and IgE to an SAE mix were significantly increased in ASNP compared with ATNP patients and controls. In addition, a subgroup analysis showed an increase in eosinophilic markers in ATNP-SAE(+) compared to ATNP-SAE(–). This relationship, however, was not found in ATNP-SAE(+) and ATNP-SAE(–) subjects, indicating that SAE immune response is overlapped or not relevant in this condition. Conclusions: Aspirin sensitivity was associated with increased concentrations of eosinophil-related mediators, as well as IgE antibodies to SAEs in nasal polyp tissue. However, a direct impact of S. aureus could not be established. It seems that aspirin sensitivity and immune reactions to SAEs are independently related to eosinophilic inflammation.
Prevalence of Serum IgE Antibodies to the Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxins (SAE, SEB, SEC, SED, TSST-1) in Patients with Persistent Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Rossi Renato Enzo , Monasterolo Giorgio
Published: February 2004

Background: Enterotoxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus and their specific IgE antibodies were thought to be important in worsening atopic dermatitis. However, few studies have documented an association between S. aureus or its exotoxins and exacerbations of upper airway/nasal disease. In the current study, we determined the prevalence of serum-specific IgE towards staphylococcal enterotoxin A, B, C, D (SEA, SEB, SEC, SED) and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) in patients suffering from rhinitis and/or asthma due to allergy. Therefore, we examined whether SEA, SEB, SEC, SED and TSST-1 were important in worsening the clinical status of patients allergic to house dust mites by means of assessing serum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), which is thought to be a reliable marker of asthma and rhinitis severity. Methods: 198 patients with persistent allergic rhinitis and/or asthma due to house dust mites were evaluated. Specific IgE towards SEA, SEB, SEC, SED, TSST-1, timothy grass and birch pollen recombinant allergens, and other aeroallergen extracts from common allergen sources were evaluated by the Pharmacia CAP System. Serum ECP was assessed, too. Results: The percentages of sensitization to staphylococcal enterotoxins of 198 house dust mite-allergic patients were as follows: TSST-1-specific IgE 24.7% (n = 49), SEC-specific IgE 22.2% (n = 44), SEB-specific IgE 15.1% (n = 30), SEA-specific IgE 9.1% (n = 18), and SED-specific IgE 5.5% (n = 11). Out of 198 individuals allergic to house dust mites 136 patients suffering from persistent rhinitis were subdivided into two subgroups: 53 patients with serum-specific IgE to at least one staphylococcal enterotoxin and 83 patients without specific IgE towards staphylococcal enterotoxins. Patients sensitive to staphylococcal enterotoxins had higher serum ECP levels than patients lacking specific IgE to SEA, SEB, SEC, SED and TSST-1(geometric mean 24.3 vs. 16.6 µg/100 ml; p = 0.029), as well as total IgE levels (geometric mean 564 vs. 161 kU/l, p = 0.00063) and specific IgE to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (geometric mean 16.7 vs. 6.6 kU/l; p = 0.0235) and Dermatophagoides farinae (geometric mean 18.6 vs. 7.8 kU/l; p = 0.0246). Conclusion: A status of sensitization to staphylococcal enterotoxins seems to be a factor increasing serum ECP, which is thought to be a reliable marker of clinical severity of allergic disease. Therefore, the evaluation of SEA, SEB, SEC, SED and TSST-1-specific IgE antibodies may have additional significance for the prognosis of persistent allergic diseases of the upper airway.