bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidrug Resistance as a Potential Prognostic Indicator in Acute Myeloid Leukemia with Normal Karyotypes
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan , Lee Nan Young , Sung Woo Jin , Baek Jin Ho , Kim Jong Gwang , Sohn Sang Kyun , Suh Jang Soo , Lee Kun Soo , Lee Kyu Bo
Published: August 2005

Introduction: Approximately 45% of adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have normal karyotypes and therefore lack structural abnormalities that can assist in the localization and characterization of molecular defects. The current study attempted to evaluate the potential prognostic role of multidrug resistance (MDR), regarded as one of the potential prognostic factors for the outcome of overall AML, for AML with normal karyotypes. Method and Materials: A functional MDR assay was performed in pretreatment samples from AML patients with normal karyotypes. The complete remission (CR) rate, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed according to the MDR status and clinical prognostic factors for 88 patients with AML with normal karyotypes. Results: MDR by efflux was expressed in 14 out of 48 evaluable patients (29%) but failed to identify the association with CR (p = 0.124). However, MDR was identified as an independent prognostic factor for EFS and OS (p = 0.013 and 0.046) together with the use of stem cell transplantation (p = 0.009 for EFS and 0.029 for OS) and the WBC count at presentation (p = 0.023 for EFS and 0.034 for OS). Conclusion: The functional MDR assay may provide information on the prognosis of AML patients with normal karyotypes, and it might be a possible guideline for risk-stratified treatment strategies in AML with normal karyotypes.
Assessment of Megakaryopoiesis in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Kalmanti Maria , Stiakaki Eftichia , Mantadakis Elpis , Martimianaki Georgia , Giannoulia Aglaia , Kalmonti Lida , Dimitriou Helen
Published: August 2005

The effect of the underlying disease and chemotherapy on megakaryopoiesis has not been extensively studied in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) during and at the end of therapy. Using a serum-free assay, we assessed the megakaryocyte (Mk) colony formation in vitro from bone marrow mononuclear cells of 25 children with ALL during chemotherapy and shortly after the cessation of it. Twelve children with solid tumors without bone marrow involvement and cord blood from 10 full-term normal vaginal deliveries were used as controls. A significant reduction in the number of Mk colonies was observed at diagnosis of ALL, and Mk colony formation remained lower than controls throughout the different phases of leukemia treatment. Our study suggests that defects in megakaryopoiesis of children with ALL in long-term remission may persist during chemotherapy and at least shortly after the end of it.
Increased Seroprevalence of Human Herpesvirus 8 in Patientswith Hematological Disorders
Authors: Tsai Wen-Hui , Lee Yuan-Ming , Ing-Tiau Kuo Benjamin , Ho Chi Kuan , Liao Pen-Tung , Liu Ming-Der , Kou Yu Ru , Hsu Hui-Chi
Published: August 2005

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) has been consistently linked to Kaposi’s sarcoma and many hematological diseases such as pleural effusion lymphoma, multicentric Castleman’s disease, some lymphoproliferative diseases and posttransplantation bone marrow failure. However, whether patients with hematological disorders are at a higher risk of HHV8 infection has not been determined. In this study, indirect immunofluorescence was used to detect antibodies against lytic antigens of HHV8 in 265 patients with hematological disorders. Our data showed that 24.5% of patients (65/265) were seropositive for HHV8 IgG antibody, which was significantly higher than in our general population (p < 0.001). A significantly higher seropositive rate can be found in patients with lymphoma, leukemia, autoimmune cytopenias and myeloproliferative disorders, but not in patients with myeloma or aplastic anemia. No difference in the seropositive rate is associated with gender or age. We conclude that some patients with hematological disorders are at a higher risk of HHV8 infection.
Clinical Correlation of Bone Marrow Microvessel Density in Essential Thrombocythemia
Authors: Panteli K. , Zagorianakou N. , Agnantis N.J. , Bourantas K.L. , Bai M.
Published: August 2005

The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic relevance of angiogenesis expressed as bone marrow microvessel density (MVD) in 40 patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET). Bone marrow MVD was visualized in paraffin tissue sections using immunohistochemical staining for CD34 protein. Increased MVD of bone marrow specimens was not significantly correlated with clinical (sex, age, microvascular disturbances, liver and spleen size, complications, treatment or no before biopsy), laboratory (peripheral blood count), bone marrow histopathological parameters (cellularity, megakaryocyte clumping and reticulin fibrosis) and overall survival. These preliminary findings suggest that angiogenesis has no prognostic value in patients with ET.
A Case of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia with Severe Eosinophilia Having t(5;12)(q31;p13) with t(1;7)(q10;p10)
Authors: Kim Myungshin , Lim Jihyang , Lee Ahwon , Park Gyeongsin , Kim Yonggoo , Han Kyungja , Kang Chang Suk , Kim Yoo-Jin , Song Jeong-Sup
Published: August 2005

We describe an unusual case of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia with severe eosinophilia having t(5;12)(q31;p13) with t(1;7)(q10;p10). The eosinophilic proliferation was severe in peripheral blood and bone marrow, and they revealed marked dysplastic features. We performed fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry to evaluate the clonality of eosinophils. The eosinophils were stained positively to platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β. By FISH using chromosome 1 satellite probe and chromosome 1q telomere probe, the eosinophils were proved to belong to the malignant clone.
Angioimmunoblastic T Cell Lymphoma with an Unusual Proliferation of Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Large B Cells Arising in a Patient with Progressive Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Yamamoto Hidesuke , Miwa Hiroshi , Kato Yoshiro , Nakamura Shigeo , Hara Kazuo , Nitta Masakazu
Published: August 2005

We report an unusual case of angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma arising in the setting of 5 years of immunosuppressive treatment for progressive systemic sclerosis. The lymph node lesion was accompanied by large blastic B cells with an association of Epstein-Barr virus. Southern blot study demonstrated the clonal rearrangement of T cell receptor β-chain gene, but not of immunoglobulin heavy chain gene. Phenotypical examination of the lymph node also revealed the predominance of CD4+ T cells in addition to the proliferation of follicular dendritic cells, but no light chain restriction in large B cell components. In the clinical and laboratory aspects, neutrophilia (15.8 × 109/l) and plasmacytosis (40%) in bone marrow were noted, which were considered to be closely related to elevated serum granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6. Based on the combined data described here, our preferred diagnosis was angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma with Epstein-Barr virus-associated B cell lymphoproliferative disorder, the pathogenesis of which was suggested to be closely associated with immunosuppressive treatment for progressive systemic sclerosis.
Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases in Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas and Stenotrophomonas as Determined by the VITEK 2 and E Test Systems in a Kuwait Teaching Hospital
Authors: Jamal Wafaa , Rotimi V.O. , Khodakhast Fatima , Saleem Rolla , Pazhoor Aleyamma , Al Hashim Ghyada
Published: August 2005

Objective: To determine the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing members of the Enterobacteriaceae using VITEK 2 and E test systems. Materials and Methods: A total of 3,592 consecutive gram-negative isolates (single isolate per patient) of the family of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas adjudged to be clinically relevant to the patient’s infection were studied for ESBL production over a period of 1 year at Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital, Kuwait. Two methods were used: the automated VITEK 2 system and E test ESBL, a manually manipulated plastic strip containing various gradients of β-lactam antibiotics. These tests and interpretative criteria for the results were performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Results: Of the 3,592 bacterial isolates, 264 (7.5%) and 185 (5.2%) were positive for ESBL production by the VITEK 2 and E test, respectively. All the ESBL-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa identified by VITEK 2 gave indeterminate results by E test. Prevalent ESBL producers, identified by the VITEK 2 versus E test, respectively, were: Citrobacter spp. (15 vs. 3.2%), K. pneumoniae (12.2 vs. 11.4%), Enterobacter spp. (12 vs. 3%), E. coli (6.5 vs. 5.6%), P. aeruginosa (6.5 vs. 0%) and Morganella spp. (2 vs. 1%). The most common infection associated with ESBL-producing pathogens was urinary tract infection (68.2%), followed by wound infection (14.4%) and bloodstream infection (6.1%). Conclusion: The result of this study showed a relatively high prevalence of clinically significant ESBL producers among the Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas spp. at our teaching hospital. The VITEK 2 identified a higher prevalence of ESBL strains than the E test.
Antimalarial Prescribing Practices: A Challenge to Malaria Control in Ghana
Authors: Abuaku B.K. , Koram K.A. , Binka F.N.
Published: August 2005

Objective: The study was conducted to determine antimalarial prescribing practices among prescribers in 2 of the 6 sentinel sites established to document antimalarial drug efficacy in Ghana in order to provide some explanation underlying chloroquine treatment failures in the country. Subjects andMethods: The study was descriptive combining both qualitative and quantitative designs. The qualitative design involved in-depth interviews of general prescribers in the Wassa West and Kassena Nankana districts using an interview guide. The quantitative design involved a review of Outpatient Department prescriptions of 100 patients clinically diagnosed as having malaria within the year 2000 in each of the 7 selected health care facilities. Results: The overall number of drugs prescribed per patient encounter was 4.3 in the Wassa West district and 3.0 in the Kassena Nankana district. The number of drugs per patient encounter was 5.4 and 3.7 in private and government health care facilities, respectively. The commonly prescribed antimalarial drug in all the health care facilities visited was chloroquine. However, only 9.8% of prescriptions in private health care facilities contained correct doses of chloroquine compared to 54% in government health care facilities (p = 0.000). Prescriptions containing chloroquine injections were least likely to have correct doses of chloroquine. Conclusion: Thefindings indicate that although chloroquine remained the first-line drug in the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the two districts, the level of appropriateness of doses prescribed was generally low. Inappropriate doses of chloroquine prescribed were more prevalent in private than government health care facilities, and among prescriptions containing injections.
Reference Intervals for Important Serum Sex Steroid Hormones, Prostate-Specific Antigen, Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and IGF Binding Protein-3 Concentration in a Normal Kuwaiti Adult Male Population
Authors: Kehinde Elijah O. , Akanji Abayomi O. , Mojiminiyi Olusegun A. , Al-Awadi Khaleel A. , Al-Hunayan Adel , Bashir Abdul Aziz , Abraham Mathew P.
Published: August 2005

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the age-specific reference ranges for some important male sex steroid hormones, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), for the Kuwaiti population. Subjects and Methods: Blood samples were taken from 398 consenting, fasting, healthy Kuwaiti males aged 15–80 years between 8.00 a.m. and 12.00 noon. The serum concentrations of total testosterone (TT), dehydro-epiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione (ADT), sex hormone binding globulin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, PSA, IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 were determined. A distribution curve was plotted and age-specific reference levels were determined for each analyte. The reference interval for parameters with a normal distribution (Gaussian) was mean ± 2 SD, while for the non-normal distribution (non-Gaussian), it was 2.5–97.5 percentile. The reference intervals for the analytes obtained from this study were compared with those suggested by the kit manufacturers and currently used by the Ministry of Health, Kuwait Laboratories (MOHKL). Results: Serum IGFBP-3 and ADT had normal distribution while other analytes had non-normal distribution. The reference intervals from this study, manufacturers kit and MOHKL were as follows: TT 3–31, 9–60, 8–35 nmol/l; DHEAS 0.9–11, 1.0–7.3, 2.2– 15.2 µmol/l; ADT 0.5–4.3, 0.8–2.8, 2.0–9.2 nmol/l; LH 1–11, 0.8–7.6, 0.4–5.7 mIU/l; FSH 0.5–11, 0.7–11.1, 1.1–13.5 mIU/l; prolactin 42–397, 53–360, 80–230 nmol/l; IGF-1 41–542, 78–956, 71–261 ng/ml; IGFBP-3 88– 2,090, 900–4,000, 900–4,000 ng/ml, and PSA 0–3.1, 0–4, 0–4 ng/ml, respectively. Conclusion: These data indicate that for Kuwaitis lower reference ranges must be used for serum TT, DHEAS, ADT, IGFBP-3 and PSA. There is no need to change the currently used reference interval for FSH whereas higher values must be used for LH, prolactin, and IGF-1.
Presacral Extramedullary Hematopoiesis: A Diagnostic Confusion concerning a Rare Presentation
Authors: Al-Aabassi Abdulla , Murad Basil A.
Published: August 2005

Objective: To report a rare case of extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) with an asymptomatic intrapelvic mass in a patient with thalassemia major. Clinical Presentation: The patient presented with a pelvic mass discovered by ultrasonography before undertaking laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstones. Technetium-99m MDP bone scan failed to differentiate EMH from malignancy. A fine-needle aspiration smear was misdiagnosed when atypical megakaryocytes were interpreted as malignant cells. EMH was suggested by magnetic resonance imaging and confirmed by an ultrasound-guided Tru-Cut biopsy. Conclusion: This case report illustrates the need to consider EMH in the differential diagnosis of patients with chronic hematological disorders and mass lesions in extramedullary sites.
Final Height in Children with Medulloblastoma Treated with Growth Hormone
Authors: Ranke Michael B. , Price David A. , Lindberg Anders , Wilton Patrick , Darendeliler Feyza , Reiter Edward O.
Published: August 2005

Background: Medulloblastoma is the most frequent primary solid central nervous system tumour in children. The 5-year survival rate is at present at about 60%. Height in general is severely compromised in survivors. The present study is an extension of the investigation by the author’s group of the effect of exogenous growth hormone (GH) among medulloblastoma patients. Methods: A total of 113 patients with medulloblastoma (out of 682 cases documented in KIGS, Pfizer International Growth Database) were treated with GH till final height was achieved. At the start of GH therapy (median dose 0.18 mg/kg/week), patients were 8.9 years old and had a median height SDS of –1.6. Results: After 6.8 years of GH, final height SDS was –1.9, reflecting an overall loss in height of 0.3 SDS. This contrasted with an age-matched group of patients with idiopathic growth hormone deficiency (iGHD, n = 1,986), whose gain in height was 1.6 SDS on the same dose. The index of responsiveness averaged –0.9 during the first prepubertal year and –2.0 during total pubertal growth, thus indicating a major impairment in responsiveness to GH as compared to iGHD. Height at GH start, which correlated positively with the age at disease onset, was found to be the major determinant of final height. Conclusions: Our findings show that attempts to improve the height outcome in medulloblastoma must involve earlier recognition and treatment with higher-than-replacement doses of GH; additionally, modifications in cancer treatment programs need to be considered, such as lowering the dose of craniospinal irradiation or avoiding it as far as possible.
Cytokine and Antibody Responses in Birch-Pollen-Allergic Patients Treated with Genetically Modified Derivatives of the Major Birch Pollen Allergen Bet v 1
Authors: Gafvelin Guro , Thunberg Sarah , Kronqvist Marianne , Grönlund Hans , Grönneberg Reidar , Troye-Blomberg Marita , Akdis Mübeccel , Fiebig Helmut , Purohit Ashok , Horak Friedrich , Reisinger Jürgen , Niederberger Verena , Akdis Cezmi A. , Cromwell Oliver , Pauli Gabrielle , Valenta Rudolf , van Hage Marianne
Published: August 2005

Background: Recently, recombinant hypoallergenic derivatives of the major birch pollen allergen, Bet v 1, were used to treat birch-pollen-allergic patients in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-centre immunotherapy study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of vaccination with aluminium-hydroxide-adsorbed recombinant Bet v 1 derivatives versus placebo on T-cell, cytokine and antibody responses in a subgroup of patients. Methods: Blood was drawn from patients of the Swedish centre (n = 27; rBet v 1 fragments: n = 10; rBet v 1 trimer: n = 8, and placebo-aluminium hydroxide: n = 9) before the start and after completion of the treatment. PBMC were stimulated with rBet v 1 and analysed for cytokine (IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13 and IFN-γ)-secreting cells by ELISpot. Bet v 1-specific antibody levels in serum (IgG1–4, IgE and IgA) were measured by ELISA. Skin prick tests with defined Bet v 1 concentrations were performed before and 10–11 months after the beginning of the study. Results: Bet v 1-specific IgG levels, consisting of IgG1, IgG2 and IgG4, were significantly increased after treatment with recombinant allergen derivatives. Treatment with rBet v 1 trimer led to a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of Bet v 1-reactive IL-5- and IL-13-producing cells, reflecting a reduced Th2 response. In addition, a decreased number of Bet v 1-reactive IL-4 producing (p = 0.07) and an increase of IL-12-producing (p = 0.06) cells was noted in the trimer-treated patients. In contrast to placebo, active treatment resulted in significantly reduced immediate-type skin reactions to Bet v 1 even 10–11 months after treatment. Conclusion: Vaccination with recombinant hypoallergenic Bet v 1 derivatives induces a Bet v 1-specific IgG response and leads to reduced skin reactivity in allergic patients. A reduction of Bet v 1-specific Th2 responses was observed in trimer-treated patients, which may reflect the intrinsic property of this allergen derivative.
Endogenous Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists Inhibit Neurogenic Inflammations in Guinea Pig Airways
Authors: Yoshihara Shigemi , Morimoto Hiroshi , Ohori Makoto , Yamada Yumi , Abe Toshio , Arisaka Osamu
Published: August 2005

Background: Although neurogenic inflammation via the activation of C fibers in the airway must have an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma, their regulatory mechanism remains uncertain. Objective: The pharmacological profiles of endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonists on the activation of C fibers in airway tissues were investigated and the mechanisms how cannabinoids regulate airway inflammatory reactions were clarified. Methods: The effects of endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonists on electrical field stimulation-induced bronchial smooth muscle contraction, capsaicin-induced bronchoconstriction and capsaicin-induced substance P release in guinea pig airway tissues were investigated. The influences of cannabinoid receptor antagonists and K+ channel blockers to the effects of cannabinoid receptor agonists on these respiratory reactions were examined. Results: Both endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonists, anandamide and palmitoylethanolamide, inhibited electrical field stimulation-induced guinea pig bronchial smooth muscle contraction, but not neurokinin A-induced contraction. A cannabinoid CB2 antagonist, SR 144528, reduced the inhibitory effect of endogenous agonists, but not a cannabinoid CB1 antagonist, SR 141716A. Inhibitory effects of agonists were also reduced by the pretreatment of large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (maxi-K+ channel) blockers, iberiotoxin and charybdotoxin, but not by other K+ channel blockers, dendrotoxin or glibenclamide. Anandamide and palmitoylethanolamide blocked the capsaicin-induced release of substance P-like immunoreactivity from guinea pig airway tissues. Additionally, intravenous injection of palmitoylethanolamide dose-dependently inhibited capsaicin-induced guinea pig bronchoconstriction, but not neurokinin A-induced reaction. However, anandamide did not reduce capsaicin-induced guinea pig bronchoconstriction. Conclusions: These findings suggest that endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonists inhibit the activation of C fibers via cannabinoid CB2 receptors and maxi-K+ channels in guinea pig airways.
Therapeutic Mechanism of Saikosaponin-d in Anti-Thy1 mAb 1-22-3-Induced Rat Model of Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Li Ping , Gong Yuewen , Zu Ning , Li Yajun , Wang Bin , Shimizu Fujio
Published: August 2005

Aims: Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis is a common kidney disease and at present, there is no effective treatment. Our previous studies have demonstrated that Sairei-to can significantly prevent progression of experimental glomerulonephritis in rats. Although we have reported that the active component of Sairei-to in treatment of glomerulonephritis was Saikosaponin-d (Ssd), mechanism of Ssd in prevention of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis progression is still unknown. Therefore, current study examines the effects of Ssd on progression of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis induced by anti-Thy1 monoclonal antibody 1-22-3 (mAb 1-22-3) in uninephrectomized rats. Methods: Eighteen female Wistar rats first received uninephrectomy and mAb 1-22-3 injection and were then divided into 3 groups: treated daily with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), 0.6 or 1.8 mg/kg of Ssd. Urinary protein concentration and systolic blood pressure were evaluated and the kidneys were collected and subjected to histological and immunohistological evaluation. The mRNA and protein of the kidneys were extracted and subjected to reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results: Ssd reduced the amount of urinary protein and systolic blood pressure. Ssd administration also decreased extracellular matrix expansion, crescentic formation as well as infiltration of macrophages and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Moreover, Ssd significantly reduced expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) and type I collagen in the kidneys. Conclusion: Ssd inhibits the progression of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis through reduction of the expression of TGF-β1 and the infiltration of macrophages and CD8+ T lymphocytes.
Quality of Life Assessment of Growth Hormone Deficiency in Adults (QoL-AGHDA): Comparison of Normative Reference Data for the General Population of England and Wales with Results for Adult Hypopituitary Patients with Growth Hormone Deficiency
Authors: Kołtowska-Häggström Maria , Hennessy Susan , Mattsson Anders F. , Monson John P. , Kind Paul
Published: August 2005

Background/Aim:Age- and gender-specific reference values for the quality of life (QoL) measures used in assessing the impact of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) are important. The objective of this study was to develop such data for the QoL-AGHDA instrument for the population of England and Wales and to demonstrate the QoL deficit in patients with GHD. Methods: For the purpose of this study, a questionnaire was developed that contained the EurQoL EQ-5D, QoL-AGHDA, questions recording an individual’s general situation and social functioning, and a self-reported five-point rating scale of general health. The questionnaire was mailed out to a sample of 1,190 individuals drawn from the general population of England and Wales. Corresponding data for 836 patients were retrieved from KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database). The postal survey data were weighted to ensure that they were representative of the general population. Results: The mean weighted QoL-AGHDA scores for the general population were 6.2 and 7.1 for men and women, respectively, compared with 13.6 and 15.7 for patients. For both males and females the differences in mean QoL-AGHDA scores between the general population and patients were statistically significant for all age categories (p < 0.01). In the general population the mean QoL-AGHDA score for each category of self-assessed health status increased progressively, indicating a poorer QoL as health status declined. Conclusions: This study reports QoL-AGHDA normative values for the population of England and Wales and confirms the extent of QoL impairment in patients with GHD in comparison with the general population.
From Atoxyl to Salvarsan: Searching for the Magic Bullet
Authors: Riethmiller Steven
Published: August 2005

March 15th of 2004 marked the 150th anniversary of the birth of Paul Ehrlich. He was the founder of modern chemotherapy and in fact coined the word and invented the science of chemical therapy. He and his chemist Al fred Bertheim were the first people to do three things: (1) identify a substance, either man-made or from natural products, which showed promise in killing certain invading organisms; (2) determine the correct structure of the active compound in this substance, and (3) modify the chemical structure of this compound to make it more potent to invading organisms and less harmful to the host.
Increased Expression of CD86 and Reduced Production of IL-12 and IL-10 by Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells from Allergic Asthmatics and Their Effects on Th1- and Th2-Type Cytokine Balance
Authors: Chen Xue-Qin , Yang Jiong , Hu Su-Ping , Nie Han-Xiang , Mao Guang-Yu , Chen Hong-Bin
Published: August 2005

Background: In allergic asthma, allergen-specific T cells have a Th2-biased phenotype, and it is thought that dendritic cells (DCs) contribute to the induction of allergic immune responses. Therefore, we hypothesized that DCs from allergic asthmatics and healthy donors differ with regard to their preference to induce Th1 or Th2 immune responses. Objectives: To investigate differences in DC-expressed costimulatory molecules and DC-secreted cytokines between allergic asthmatics and healthy donors, and their influence on the Th1- and Th2-type cytokine balance. Methods: Circulating monocytes from patients with allergic asthma and healthy donors were cultured with GM-CSF and IL-4, respectively, for 5 days and subsequently with lipopolysaccharide for 2 days to create mature DCs (mDCs). CD1a, CD83, CD40 and CD86 expression on mDCs was examined using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter. IL-12 and IL-10 secreted by mDCs were measured by ELISA. Naïve cord blood T cells were primed by mDCs from two groups, and IL-4 and IFN-γ production by polarized T-helper cells (Th) was measured by ELISA. Results: (1) CD86 expression on mDCs from allergic asthmatics was higher than that from healthy donors. (2) IL-12, IL-12p40 and IL-10 production by mDCs from allergic asthmatics was significantly lower than that from healthy donors, respectively. (3) IL-4 production by Th cells primed by mDCs from allergic asthmatics was increased compared with that from healthy donors. Conclusions: mDCs from allergic asthmatics preferentially priming naïve T cells towards Th2-cell development might be due to increased expression of CD86 and reduced production of IL-12 and IL-10.
Pulmonary Infection with Cryptococcus neoformans in the Face of Underlying Sarcoidosis
Authors: Boyton Rosemary J. , Altmann Daniel M. , Wright Andrew , Kon Onn Min
Published: August 2005

We present a case of limited pulmonary cryptococcal infection following exposure to pigeon excreta in a patient with sarcoidosis. The pathogenicity of Cryptococcus neoformans depends on the interplay between the immune status of the host and the virulence of the infecting strain. It can range from asymptomatic lung colonization in the immunocompetent host to rapidly progressive meningitis in immunocompromised patients. Immunological models of respiratory disease emphasize a distinction between infections associated with immune suppression on the one hand and diseases such as sarcoidosis believed to involve an excessive Th1-mediated immune response on the other. This case exemplifies the complex nature of immunological responses in the lung and highlights the importance of considering the possibility of co-existent fungal infection in individuals with sarcoidosis. Novel immunotherapeutic options for cryptococcal infection are discussed.
In vivo Study to Evaluate the Protective Effects of Amifostine on Radiation-Induced Damage of Testis Tissue
Authors: Nalca Andrieu Meltem , Kurtman Cengiz , Hicsonmez Ayse , Ozbilgin Kemal , Eser Erhan , Erdemli Esra
Published: August 2005

Objective: To investigate the early protective effects of amifostine against radiation-induced damage on rat testis tissue. Methods: Eighty adult male Wistar rats were randomized to 4 groups: Saline solution was given to group A for control, 200 mg/kg amifostine (WR-2721) to group B, a single fraction of 6 Gy local irradiation to testes in group C and 200 mg/kg amifostine 15–30 min before 6 Gy testicular irradiation to group D. Animals were sacrificed 3 weeks after treatment and their testes were removed for macroscopic, microscopic and ultrastructural histopathological examination. Results: The weights, widths and lengths of testes in the last 3 groups had decreased significantly when compared with the control group, but the decrease in widths after irradiation was found to be significantly less only in the amifostine plus radiation group. There was a significant reduction of testis weights in relation to the individual body weights in the irradiated testes compared with the other groups (p < 0.005), while there was no significant change of testis weight/total body weight ratio in amifostine plus irradiation group. Spermatogonium A and primary spermatocyte counts were also less in the treatment groups, and primary spermatocyte numbers were significantly higher in amifostine plus radiation group when compared with radiation alone group (p < 0.005). Pretreatment with amifostine reduced the decrease of primary spermatocyte counts by a factor of 1.28. Electron microscopic analysis did not show any cytotoxic effect of amifostine alone, and furthermore, ultrastructural findings were normal with the addition of amifostine prior to irradiation, though there was damage in the radiation exposure group. Conclusion: Amifostine when given alone by itself appears to cause adverse alterations in testis tissue; however, it has a radioprotective effect on spermiogenetic cells when used prior to radiation.
Anti-Progressive Effect of Neutral Endopeptidase 24.11 (NEP/CD10) on Cervical Carcinoma in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Terauchi Mikio , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Shibata Kiyosumi , Ino Kazuhiko , Mizutani Shigehiko , Kikkawa Fumitaka
Published: August 2005

Objectives: Neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (NEP) is known to play important roles in the maintenance of homeostasis or in neoplastic transformation and tumor progression in certain human malignancies through the enzymatic inactivation of bioactive peptides such as endothelin-1 (ET-1), angiotensin-II, and bombesin. Methods: In this study, we first investigated NEP expression in cervical carcinoma by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis. Next, we examined NEP functions in vitro and in vivo by generating NEP-overexpressing cervical carcinoma cells. Results: We found a significant decrease in cellular proliferative and invasive abilities with a reduced ET-1 concentration in the conditioned medium by NEP overexpression in cervical carcinoma CaSki cells, which have an ET-1 autocrine loop. In addition, these potentials were cancelled by blockade of NEP activity with a specific inhibitor. Although vector-transfected CaSki cells could grow even in serum-free media, NEP-overexpressing cells failed to proliferate in these media. Furthermore, we demonstrated that NEP suppressed tumor formation of subcutaneous xenografts using nude mice. Conclusions: Our results indicated that NEP functions as a tumor-suppressor gene in cervical carcinoma cells, and its expression may have prognostic significance. Further elucidation of the mechanism underlying the observed effect of NEP will contribute to a better understanding of its role in the pathophysiology of cervical carcinoma.
Correlation between Laminin-5 γ2 Chain and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Fukai Yasuyuki , Masuda Norihiro , Kato Hiroyuki , Fukuchi Minoru , Miyazaki Tatsuya , Nakajima Masanobu , Sohda Makoto , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Nakajima Takashi
Published: August 2005

Objectives: Laminin-5 γ2 chain (LN-5 γ2) is an extracellular matrix protein that plays an important role in cell migration and tumor invasion. We evaluated the association of LN-5 γ2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Methods: LN-5 γ2 and EGFR expression was evaluated in 110 esophageal SCC patients by immunohistochemistry, and was confirmed using esophageal SCC cell lines by Western blot analysis. Results: LN-5 γ2 expression in the invasive front of the tumor was correlated with the depth of invasion (p = 0.0001), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.0011) and pathological stage (p = 0.0001). The strong expression of EGFR was also correlated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.0456) and the pathological stage (p = 0.0055). In patient survival, LN-5 γ2 positivity and/or strong EGFR expression showed a significantly low survival rate as compared with those with lesser expression of LN-5 γ2 and EGFR. Immunohistochemically, LN-5 γ2 expression was significantly correlated with EGFR expression (p < 0.0001). Western blot analysis also confirmed the correlated expression of LN-5 γ2 and EGFR in SCC cell lines except 2 of the 5 cell lines. Conclusions: This study suggests that coexpression of LN-5 γ2 and EGFR is closely related to the progression and poor prognosis of esophageal SCC.
Superoxide Contributes to Development of Salt Sensitivity and Hypertension Induced by Nitric Oxide Deficiency
Authors: Kopkan Libor , Majid Dewan S. A.
Published: August 2005

This study was performed to examine the role of superoxide (O
2
−
) in the development of salt sensitivity and hypertension induced by inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) generation. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with diet containing either normal salt (NS) (0.4% NaCl) or high salt (HS) (4% NaCl). These rats were treated with or without an NO synthase inhibitor, nitro-
l
-arginine methylester (
l
-NAME) (15 mg/kg/d) and O
2
−
scavenger, tempol (30 mg/kg per day) in the drinking water for 4 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured by tail-cuff plethysmography and urine collection was performed during the course of experimental periods. At the end of 4 weeks,
l
-NAME treatment resulted in greater increases in SBP in HS rats (127±2 to 172±3 mm Hg; n=8) than in NS rats (130±2 to 156±2 mm Hg; n=9). Co-administration of tempol with
l
-NAME markedly attenuated these SBP responses to a similar level in both HS (128±3 to 147±2 mm Hg; n=8) and NS rats (126±2 to 142±3 mm Hg; n=8). Urinary 8-isoprostane excretion (U
Iso
V) increased in response to
l
-NAME treatment that was higher in HS (10.6±0.5 to 21.5±0.8 ng/d) than in NS rats (10.8±0.7 to 16.9±0.6 ng/d). Co-treatment with tempol completely abolished these U
Iso
V responses to
l
-NAME in both HS and NS rats but did not alter urinary H
2
O
2
excretion rate. The decreases in urinary nitrate/nitrite excretion in response to
l
-NAME treatment were not altered by co-administration of tempol in both HS and NS rats. These data suggest that enhancement of O
2
−
activity during NO inhibition contributes to the development of salt sensitivity that is associated with NO-deficient hypertension.
Distal Protection Improved Reperfusion and Reduced Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Who Had Angioscopically Defined Ruptured Plaque
Authors: Mizote Isamu , Ueda Yasunori , Ohtani Tomohito , Shimizu Masahiko , Takeda Yasuharu , Oka Takafumi , Tsujimoto Masahiko , Hirayama Atsushi , Hori Masatsugu , Kodama Kazuhisa
Published: August 2005

Background—

Distal protection, in the Saphenous Vein Graft Angioplasty Free of Emboli (SAFER) trial, is demonstrated to prevent distal embolism in the percutaneous coronary intervention of saphenous vein graft. However, in the Enhanced Myocardial Efficacy and Recovery by Aspiration of Liberated Debris (EMERALD) trial, it was not effective in the percutaneous coronary intervention of native coronary arteries in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We hypothesized that its effectiveness would be determined by lesion characteristics. Therefore, we classified the type of culprit lesion by angioscopy and examined its influence on the effectiveness of distal protection, comparing patients with AMI treated with and without distal protection.

Methods and Results—

Consecutive patients with AMI treated without distal protection (n=110) from July 2000 to July 2002 and those treated with distal protection (n=81) from July 2002 to July 2004 were included. Patients in each group were subdivided according to whether or not they had angioscopically defined ruptured plaque at culprit lesion. Among those groups, incidence of no-reflow phenomenon, ST-segment resolution, myocardial blush grade, and left ventricular ejection fraction at 6 months were compared. Aspirated samples by distal protection were semiquantitatively and histologically analyzed and compared between patients with and without ruptured plaque. No-reflow phenomenon was most frequently (
P
<0.05) observed in patients with ruptured plaque treated without distal protection. ST-segment resolution (68±15% versus 40±21%,
P
<0.001), myocardial blush grade (2.6±0.5 versus 1.8±0.3,
P
<0.001), and left ventricular ejection fraction (47.2±6.7% versus 41.0±9.7%,
P
<0.01) were improved by distal protection among patients with ruptured plaque but not among patients without ruptured plaque. Aspirated samples >1 mm were detected more frequently (97.3% versus 78.5%,
P
<0.05) in patients with ruptured plaque than those without ruptured plaque. Histologically, aspirated samples contained plaque debris (95.3% versus 31.1%,
P
<0.05) more frequently in patients with ruptured plaque than in those without ruptured plaque.

Conclusions—

Distal protection reduced microcirculation damage and left ventricular dysfunction in patients with AMI who had angioscopically defined ruptured plaque. Distal embolization of plaque debris was detected more frequently in patients with ruptured plaque. These results suggest that microcirculation damage and left ventricular dysfunction are increased mainly by distal embolization of plaque debris rather than of thrombus.
Incidence and Clinical Relevance of Slow Ventricular Tachycardia in Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Recipients
Authors: Sadoul Nicolas , Mletzko Ralph , Anselme Frédéric , Bowes Robert , Schöls Wolfgang , Kouakam Claude , Casteigneau Gaëlle , Luise Raffaele , Iscolo Nicolas , Aliot Etienne
Published: August 2005

Background—

This study aims to assess the incidence and clinical relevance of slow ventricular tachycardia (VT) and the effectiveness and/or deleterious effects of antitachycardia pacing in slow VT in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator recipients.

Methods and Results—

This multicenter prospective randomized study included 374 patients (326 men) without prior history of slow VT (<148 bpm) implanted with a dual-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Patients had a 3-zone detection configuration: a slow VT zone (101 to 148 bpm), a conventional VT zone (>148 bpm), and a ventricular fibrillation zone. Patients were randomized to a treatment group (n=183) with therapy activated in the slow VT zone or a monitoring group (n=191) with no therapy in the slow VT zone. During follow-up (11 months), 449 slow VTs occurred in 114 patients (30.5% slow VT incidence); 181 VTs (54 patients) occurred in the monitoring group; 3 were readmitted to the hospital; and lightheadedness and palpitations occurred in 4 and 250 (60 patients) in the treatment group treated by antitachycardia pacing (89.8% success rate) and shock delivery (n=2). There were 10 crossovers from the monitoring to treatment group and 3 crossovers from the treatment to monitoring group (
P
=0.09). Quality of life scores were not different between groups.

Conclusions—

Slow VT incidence (<150 bpm) is high (30%) in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator recipients without prior history of slow VT, has limited clinical relevance, and is efficiently and safely terminated by antitachycardia pacing.
Factors Associated With Injection and Noninjection Drug Use During Incarceration Among Puerto Rican Drug Injectors in New York and Puerto Rico
Authors: Andía Jonny F. , Deren Sherry , Robles Rafaela R. , Kang Sung-Yeon , Colón Héctor M. , Oliver-Velez Denise , Finlinson Ann
Published: August 2005

This study examines factors related to injection and noninjection drug use during the last incarceration among injection drug users in East Harlem, New York (n = 555), and Bayamón, Puerto Rico (n = 241). Injecting drugs during the last incarceration episode was more likely in the sample in Puerto Rico (31% vs. 12%, p < .001), and noninjection drug use was more likely in the New York sample (37% vs. 14%, p < .001). Gang affiliation and length of incarceration were related to injection and noninjection drug use. Interventions for incarcerated drug users, including harm reduction efforts and drug treatment programs, should be enhanced. Further study of the role of gangs in influencing inmate HIV risk behaviors should be undertaken.
Labor Support for Incarcerated Pregnant Women: The Doula Project
Authors: Schroeder Carole , Bell Janice
Published: August 2005

Women of childbearing age are the fastest growing segment of the incarcerated population, but few resources exist for women who deliver an infant while in jail. This article presents data from a multiagency, collaborative study providing trained labor and birth support (doulas) to pregnant women who delivered while in jail custody. Satisfaction surveys and qualitative interviews showed high program feasibility and satisfaction and low program costs. The most compelling findings of the study were the interviews with the inmate mothers that outlined a grim and repetitive trajectory of childhood abuse, violence, and neglect that led to school failure, problematic relationships with men, early drug use, arrest, incarceration, and eventual loss of children. Policy recommendations centered around early intervention, harm reduction, and reunification conclude the article.
Parole and Revocation: Perspectives of Young Adult Offenders
Authors: Hanrahan Kate , Gibbs John J. , Zimmerman Sherwood E.
Published: August 2005

This article presents the findings of an exploratory study of parole release and parole failure as seen through the eyes of inmates who have been returned to prison following parole revocation. The small sample of revoked inmates was limited to parolees of a young adult offender (YAO) program. The YAO program was designed for young men who were (a) under the age of 18 at the time of conviction, (b) waived to the adult system, and (c) sentenced to a term of imprisonment in an adult prison. This research project used qualitative interviews to explore perceptions about parole supervision and revocation. The men described their experiences and thoughts about parole from the perspective of parole failure. The authors believe the insights of the men can inform discussions about reentry and efforts to enhance parole services for recently released inmates.
Scheduling Simulation in a Distributed Wireless Embedded System
Authors: Chen Yinong , Huang Hai , Tsai Wei-Tek
Published: August 2005

The aims of the research are to develop a distributed simulation environment and to investigate techniques that support efficient task-scheduling algorithms in fault-tolerant, real-time, distributed, and wireless embedded systems. Techniques developed include deadline-based real-time scheduling, priority-based scheduling, and redundant resource allocation for fault-tolerant, energy-aware, and signal strength-aware scheduling. A system model is proposed, and a prototype of the distributed simulation environment is implemented. Three scheduling algorithms and sample applications are designed and implemented in the environment. Experiment data are collected for analyzing the effectiveness of the algorithms.
PI-PD Controller for Adaptive and Robust Active Queue Management for Internet Congestion Control
Authors: Ryu Seungwan , Ryu Byunghan , Jeong Myoungki , Park Seikwon
Published: August 2005

Since random early detection (RED) was proposed in 1993, many active queue management (AQM) algorithms have been proposed to support better end-to-end Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) congestion control. In this article, the authors introduce and analyze a feedback control model of the TCP/AQM dynamics. Then they suggest the concept of an AQM algorithm that can detect and avoid congestion proactively. Finally, they propose the proportional-integral (PI) proportional-derivative (PD) controller using proportional-integral-derivative (PID) feedback control to overcome the reactive control behavior of existing AQM proposals. The PI-PD controller is able to provide proactive congestion avoidance and control using an adaptive congestion indicator and a control function. A comparative simulation study under a variety of network environments shows that the PI-PD controller outperforms RED and the PI controller in terms of the queue length dynamics, the packet loss rates, and the link utilization.
Protection from money laundering with minimum impact
Authors: Vickers Annalie
Published: August 2005

The ease of transferring vast sums of money around the globe using computer networks provides opportunities for corruption. To help combat international terrorism and drug trafficking, the legislation relating to money laundering has recently been strengthened and extended to new business sectors. In this article we will explore the elements of the legislation that have changed and look at what information professionals can do to ensure that their systems are compliant while minimizing the impact and hassle-factor for clients, prospects and staff.