bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Triptolide on Apoptosis of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) Cells
Authors: Lin J , Chen L-Y , Lin Z-X , Zhao M-L
Published: February 2013

Triptolide, derived from the traditional Chinese herb, Tripterygium wilfordii, sensitizes cancer cells to apoptosis. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), which accounts for most cases of central nervous malignancy, has a very poor prognosis and lacks effective therapeutic inventions. We, therefore, investigated the effects of different concentrations of, and different periods of exposure to, triptolide on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the glioma cell lines, U251MG and U87MG, and in normal human fetal astrocytes. Cell proliferation was investigated by MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and growth curve analysis, and apoptosis was assessed from genomic DNA fragmentation. Triptolide showed dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in glioma cells. It also increased the ratio of the pro-apoptotic protein, Bax, to the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2. Since U87MG has the wild-type p53 gene whereas U251MG harbours a mutated p53 gene, our results indicate that triptolide induces apoptosis in GBM cells via a p53-independent pathway. The dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis by triptolide may involve upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2.
Influence of Glutamine on Intestinal Inflammatory Response, Mucosa Structure Alterations and Apoptosis following Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats
Authors: Feng D , Xu W , Chen G , Hang C , Gao H , Yin H
Published: February 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can induce a persistent inflammatory response, histopathological changes and apoptosis in the intestine. Glutamine has been shown to reduce bacterial translocation and maintain intestine mucosal integrity, but its effects on the inflammatory response, structural alterations and apoptosis in intestinal mucosa following TBI have not been previously investigated. Using the weight-drop method, a right parietal cortical contusion was induced in rats and, for the next 5 days, they were fed either chow alone or chow mixed with glutamine. Intestinal tissue samples were then removed for analysis. Following TBI, glutamine supplementation was found to: decrease intestinal concentrations of interleukin (IL) −1β, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-6; downregulate intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression; attenuate TBI-induced damage to the intestine structure; and reduce apoptosis. These results suggest that post-TBI glutamine administration could suppress intestinal inflammation, protect intestinal mucosal structure and reduce mucosal apoptosis.
Epidemiological and Virological Assessment of Influenza Activity in Apulia, Italy, during the Seasons 2004–2005 and 2005–2006
Authors:   And The Influenza Collaborative Group, De Donno A , Quattrocchi M , Errico P , Lobreglio G , Sanapo F , Guido M
Published: February 2013

This study evaluated the impact of influenza and vaccination coverage in Apulia, Italy, during the 2004–2005 and 2005–2006 seasons, using epidemiological and virological surveillance data collected through the Italian Net of Surveillance of Influenza (InfluNet) organized by the Superior Institute of Health (ISS) and the Inter-University Centre of Research on Influenza (CIRI). Vaccination coverage was calculated from the number of doses administered to individuals aged ≤ 65 years. Sentinel physicians reported weekly influenza-like illness (ILI) and acute respiratory illness (ARI) occurrences among patients. Influenza viruses were isolated and identified by cell culture on Madin-Darby Canine Kidney cells and polymerase chain reaction techniques. Vaccination coverage reached 72.7% and 77.0% during the 2004–2005 and 2005–2006 seasons, respectively. Incidence of ILI was higher during the 2004–2005 season compared with the 2005–2006 season, whereas the incidence ARI appeared to show a more constant trend. Incidence rates for ILI and ARI were higher in the 0 − 14-year age group. The increase in vaccination coverage and implementation of a network of epidemiological and virological surveillance are fundamental for the control and prevention of influenza.
The Correlation between Plasma Fibrinogen Levels and the Clinical Features of Patients with Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Y , Qian Y , Lv W
Published: February 2013

Pre-operative plasma levels of fibrinogen, plasma prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time (TT) were retrospectively examined in 105 patients with ovarian carcinoma and 21 control patients with benign ovarian tumour. Plasma cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels, pathological type, age, body mass index and blood group were evaluated. The TTs of patients with stage III and stage IV ovarian carcinoma were significantly shorter than in controls. Levels of plasma fibrinogen in patients with stage III and IV ovarian carcinoma were higher than those in patients with stage I and II ovarian carcinoma and the controls. There was a positive relationship between levels of plasma CA-125 and plasma fibrinogen in patients with stage II malignancy. There were no significant differences between plasma fibrinogen levels in patients of different age, BMI, blood group and pathological type. Shorter TT was an indication of advanced stage ovarian carcinoma, and fibrinogen was associated with the peritoneal carcinomatosis of ovarian carcinoma.
Magnesium, Zinc and Copper Status in Osteoporotic, Osteopenic and Normal Post-menopausal Women
Authors: Mutlu M , Argun M , Kilic E , Saraymen R , Yazar S
Published: February 2013

Serum concentrations of magnesium, zinc and copper were measured in post-menopausal women with osteoporosis ( n = 40), osteopenia ( n = 40) or normal bone mineral density ( n = 40) as classified on the basis of the T-score of the femur neck and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry results. Mean concentrations of magnesium and zinc were significantly lower in osteoporotic women than in both osteopenic women and normal women. In addition, magnesium and zinc concentrations in osteopenic women were significantly lower than in normal women. There were no statistically significant differences observed between the osteopenic, osteoporotic and control groups with respect to copper levels. The clinical significance of these changes needs further elucidation, but trace element supplementation, especially with magnesium and zinc and perhaps copper, may have beneficial effects on bone density.
Comparison of Tuberculin Skin Test and a Specific T-cell-based Test, T-Spot™. TB, for the Diagnosis of Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Ozekinci T , Ozbek E , Celik Y
Published: February 2013

There is substantial evidence that the detection of T cells specific for the proteins ESAT-6 and CFP-10 using the ex vivo enzyme-linked immunospot technique is a marked improvement on the existing tuberculin skin test (TST). This new technique, which detects γ-interferon-producing T cells, is now available as the commercial assay, T-Spot™.TB. We compared the T-Spot™.TB test with the TST for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in different groups of subjects. Significant accordance (85.7%) between the tests was found in subjects with active lung tuberculosis and in tuberculosis clinic and laboratory personnel (63.6%) but accordance was lowest and not significant amongst house contacts of tuberculosis patients (53.6%). We conclude that, in countries where vaccination is routinely performed, the T-Spot™.TB test is a useful diagnostic test for LTBI in high-risk groups when carried out either together with the TST and/or to confirm the TST result.
Lack of Platelet Activation Reflected by Circulating Soluble Glycoprotein V in Pre-eclampsia
Authors: Acar K , Sucak A , Beyazit Y , Genc G , Haznedaroglu IC , Aksu S , Danisman N
Published: February 2013

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a human pregnancy-specific disorder of unknown aetiology. Although the quantitative relationship between platelet aggregation in PE is not clearly defined yet, we aimed to investigate the possible relationship between PE and platelet glycoprotein V (GPV), which is an integral platelet membrane protein involved in the function of the GPIb-V-IX receptor. Fifty patients with PE and 37 normotensive pregnant women (controls) were enrolled in this study. Fasting blood samples were collected and soluble GPV (sGPV) levels were determined using a commercially available enzyme immunoassay. No statistically significant difference in sGPV was found between PE patients and control subjects. There was no correlation between sGPV and platelet counts or between pregnancy duration and platelet counts. Further clinical and experimental investigations are needed to elucidate the pathological processes involved in the development of PE in complicated pregnancies.
Detection of let-7a MicroRNA by Real-time PCR in Colorectal Cancer: a Single-centre Experience from China
Authors: Fang W-J , Lin C-Z , Zhang H-H , Qian J , Zhong L , Xu N
Published: February 2013

Colorectal cancer, a heterogeneous disease arising from a complex series of molecular changes, is one of the world's leading causes of cancer deaths. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), an extensive class of small non-coding RNAs, have been implicated in cancer development and progression. One of the first miRNAs to be identified was let-7 miRNA, which has recently been found to be expressed at reduced levels in human lung cancer cells. We used a rapid stem-loop reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction method to quantify human let-7a miRNA expression in samples of human colorectal cancer. This method was able to detect let-7a miRNA in as little as 0.05 ng of total RNA from colorectal mucosa and its specificity was high (100%). Our results showed that the expression of let-7a miRNA was considerably reduced in two of eight patients. To our knowledge, this is the first study of Chinese patients to show reduced expression of endogenous let-7 miRNA in colorectal cancer.
Treating Phenylketonuria: A Single Centre Experience
Authors: Giovannini M , Riva E , Salvatici E , Fiori L , Paci S , Verduci E , Agostoni C
Published: February 2013

Hyperphenylalaninaemia (HPA) is an inherited disorder that results in raised plasma phenylalanine levels with a range of severities, including phenylketonuria (PKU). Since the first attempts at treatment using a low-phenylalanine diet and after more than 50 years of research, considerable progress has been made so we are now at a stage where mental retardation caused by high plasma phenylalanine can be prevented. We must, however, be aware of the new challenges we face in managing PKU. These include: maintaining optimal growth by providing enough phenylalanine without jeopardizing the child's psychomotor development; providing an optimal nutritional status that ensures other essential nutrients, such as long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, are not excluded from the diet; ensuring optimal compliance to the dietary intervention; and considering patients' quality of life. New strategies, such as tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) supplementation, need to be evaluated with regard to safety, efficacy and expected outcomes in specific types of HPA.
Correlation between the In Vitro ATP-based Chemosensitivity Assay and HER2/neu Expression in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Woo SU , Bae JW , Kim HG , Choi SH , Kang DH , Lee JB , Koo BW
Published: February 2013

Several in vitro chemosensitivity tests have been developed to predict the chemotherapeutic response of tumours prior to initiation of individualized treatment for breast cancer. This study investigated whether the in vitro chemosensitivity response of cell lines derived from breast cancer patients was affected by HER2/neu expression. We cultured breast cancer cell lines from 50 patients and the adenosine triphosphate-based chemotherapy response assay (ATP-CRA) was performed with 5-fluorouracil, gemcitabine, docetaxel, doxorubicin, methotrexate, vinorelbine and paclitaxel. 5-Fluorouracil combined a high median cell death rate (32.4%) with the narrowest range of cytotoxic effects (7.3 − 65.7%). In addition, gemcitabine showed significantly greater activity in HER2/neu-positive patients. In contrast, docetaxel was significantly less effective in HER2/neu-positive patients. No significant correlation was found between the other agents and HER2/neu expression. The use of the ATP-CRA test for metastatic tissue from patients with recurrent disease might be a useful approach to determine the most effective chemotherapy regimen.
Antihypertensive Efficacy of Amlodipine and Losartan after Two ‘Missed’ Doses in Patients with Mild to Moderate Essential Hypertension
Authors:   On Behalf of the Latin American Hypertension Study (LAMHYST) Group, Ribeiro AB , Mion D , Marin MJ , Majul C , Botero R , López NR , Gonzalez S , Izurieta H , Francischetti EA
Published: February 2013

We compared the effects of amlodipine (5 − 10 mg, n = 94) and losartan (50 − 100 mg, n = 94) on the lowering of blood pressure (BP) at steady state and after two missed doses, as well as on tolerability. This was a randomized, double-blind study of 12 weeks of active treatment followed by 2 days of placebo treatment. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and office BP measurements were performed at baseline, week 12 and after the 2-day drug holiday. After 12 weeks, amlodipine was significantly more effective than losartan in reducing both 24-h systolic blood pressure (SBP) (−18.0 versus −10.8 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (−10.6 versus −8.0 mmHg). While mean SBP and DBP for both treatments increased comparably during the drug holiday, BP values remained significantly lower than baseline for both treatments. The superior BP-lowering effect of amlodipine compared with losartan was maintained during the drug holiday.
Target-controlled Propofol Infusion for Sedation in Patients Undergoing Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy
Authors: Park JY , Park SJ , Choi SU , Shin HW , Lee HW , Lim HJ , Yoon SM , Chang SH
Published: February 2013

The efficacy and safety of the routine use of target-controlled infusion of propofol for the sedation of patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy were assessed. The optimal level of sedation was also evaluated. A total of 250 patients were randomized into five groups according to sedation level determined by the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (OAA/S) scale. As the level of sedation was increased, the overall pain and discomfort score decreased and the satisfaction rate tended to increase, although hypoxia meant that intervention occurred more frequently at higher sedation levels. Target-controlled infusion of propofol provided safe and effective sedation during transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy, particularly if moderate sedation (OAA/S score of 3) was achieved. The effect-site concentration of propofol for this level of sedation was about 1.5 μg/ml.
Mechanisms Underlying B-cell Tolerance Induction by Antigen–Immunoglobulin G Gene Transfer
Authors: Wang R , Wang J , Han G , Song L , Chen G , Xu R , Yu M , Qian J , Shen B , Li Y
Published: February 2013

Previous studies on the mechanisms underlying tolerance induction in diabetes have mainly focused on T cells, however B cells also have an important role in diabetes. Based on our previous studies that splenocytes, transduced with glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) 65 fused to immunoglobulin (Ig) G carrier, reduced antibody-mediated response in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, here we examined the mechanisms underlying B-cell tolerance in this system. We found that GAD–IgG-transduced splenocytes did not reduce CD40 expression on B cells in NOD mice, but they did downregulate CD40 ligand (CD40L) expression. Furthermore, anti-CD40L injection reduced autoantibody levels in NOD mice and in vitro experiments demonstrated that CD40L blockade reduced the antigen-presenting capability of B-cells. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that downregulation of CD40L may be one mechanism underlying the induction of B-cell tolerance in GAD-IgG-treated NOD mice.
The Cardiovascular Safety Profile of Renzapride, a Novel Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Meyers NL , Hickling RI
Published: February 2013

The cardiac safety of renzapride, a novel benzamide currently under clinical development for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, was investigated in a four-way randomized crossover electrocardiographic clinical study in healthy human subjects and also in an in vitro cardiac conductivity study in sheep isolated Purkinje fibres. The primary endpoint in the clinical study was prolongation of the individually corrected QT interval (QTci). No clinically or statistically significant prolongation of QTci after 4 or 20 mg renzapride compared with placebo was observed. The relative effects of renzapride and cisapride in the in vitro study showed that the cardiac action potential duration was unaltered by 0.2 and 2 μM renzapride, shortened by 20 μM renzapride, and prolonged by 1 μM cisapride. Cisparide was also a 1000-fold more potent inhibitor of human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) channels in HEK293 cells than renzapride. These studies indicate that therapeutic doses of renzapride are unlikely to prolong cardiac action potentials and, therefore, are also unlikely to cause cardiac arrhythmias in clinical use.
Remifentanil and Etomidate for Laryngeal Mask Airway Insertion
Authors: Uzun Ş , Gözaçan A , Canbay Ö , Özgen S
Published: February 2013

Etomidate does not depress the upper airway reflexes, making it difficult to insert a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) when using it for anaesthesia. This study investigated the effect of adding remifentanil to etomidate for LMA insertion. Fifty adult patients, undergoing cystoscopy, were randomized to two groups. The propofol-remifentanil group ( n = 25) received propofol anaesthesia induction (2.5 mg/kg) and a remifentanil bolus of 0.5 μg/kg, followed by a 2-min remifentanil infusion of 0.05 μg/kg per min. The etomidate–remifentanil group ( n = 25) received etomidate anaesthesia induction (0.3 mg/kg) and remifentanil as described. The LMA was inserted by a blinded anaesthetist who assessed a number of parameters. Only 13 LMAs were inserted at the first attempt in the etomidate–remifentanil group compared with 23 in the propofol-remifentanil group. Gagging, chest rigidity and myoclonus occurred significantly more frequently in the etomidate–remifentanil group. We conclude that the addition of remifentanil to etomidate anaesthesia induction does not improve LMA insertion.
Bay w 9798, a Dihydropyridine Structurally Related to Nifedipine with No Calcium Channel-blocking Properties, Inhibits Tumour Necrosis Factor-α-induced Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 Expression in Endothelial Cells by Suppressing Reactive Oxygen Species Generation
Authors: Matsui T , Yamagishi S , Nakamura K , Inoue H
Published: February 2013

Dihydropyridine-based calcium antagonists (DHPs) are widely used to treat hypertension. We have previously shown that nifedipine, one of the most popular DHPs, blocks tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 as well as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression in endothelial cells by suppressing reactive oxygen species generation (ROS). The molecular mechanism is still to be elucidated, however, because endothelial cells do not possess voltage-operated L-type calcium channels. The aim of this study was to determine in TNF-α-exposed human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) whether and how Bay w 9798, a dihydropyridine structurally related to nifedipine with no calcium antagonistic properties, may suppress VCAM-1 expression, a key molecule which mediates the adhesion of monocytes to vasculature in the early stages of atherosclerosis. In HUVECs, 10 ng/ml TNF-α for 4 h stimulated ROS generation and subsequently upregulated VCAM-1 mRNA levels, both of which were dose-dependently blocked by Bay w 9798. The results demonstrated that Bay w 9798 inhibited VCAM-1 expression in TNF-α-exposed cells by suppressing ROS generation. They suggest that the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties of nifedipine and Bay w 9798 may be ascribed to the dihydropyridine structure, which is common to both molecules and has no calcium antagonistic ability.
Aqueous Humour Levels of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) are Correlated with Pigment Epithelium-derived Factor (PEDF) in Patients with Uveitis
Authors: Yoshida Y , Yamagishi S , Ueda S , Yoshimura K , Okuda S , Yamakawa R
Published: February 2013

The association between the aqueous humour levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) was evaluated. Aqueous humour levels of ADMA and PEDF were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively, in 31 uveitis samples and nine cataract control samples. Aqueous humour ADMA and PEDF levels were significantly higher in infectious and noninfectious uveitis patients than in controls (0.67 ± 0.04 nmol/ml and 0.55 ± 0.03 nmol/ml versus 0.43 ± 0.04 nmol/ml for ADMA; 8.22 ± 1.45 μg/ml and 5.22 ± 0.95 μg/ml versus 1.32 ± 0.22 μg/ml for PEDF). A significant positive correlation between ADMA and PEDF levels in aqueous humour was found in control and uveitis patients. These results demonstrated that the aqueous humour level of ADMA is correlated with PEDF in humans and suggest that both ADMA and PEDF in aqueous humour may be elevated in response to inflammation in uveitis.
Pigment Epithelium-derived Factor Inhibits Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-induced Vascular Hyperpermeability Both In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Yamagishi S , Abe R , Jinnouchi Y , Matsui T , Imaizumi T , Inoue H
Published: February 2013

Administration of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) inhibits advanced glycation end products-elicited retinal vascular hyperpermeability, as well as cold injury-induced brain oedema in rats. However, the underlying molecular mechanism by which PEDF blocks the hyperpermeability in vivo is not fully understood. This study investigated whether PEDF could inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced vascular hyperpermeability both in vitro and in vivo. The Miles assay revealed that, after intradermal injection of VEGF in nude mice, simultaneous administration of PEDF inhibited vascular hyperpermeability in a dose-dependent manner. The in vitro permeability assay also showed that PEDF blocked the VEGF-induced barrier dysfunction in endothelial cells. These results demonstrated that PEDF could inhibit the VEGF-induced vascular hyperpermeability both in vitro and in vivo, and suggest that PEGF may be suitable to be considered as a novel therapeutic agent for various vasopermeable disorders in which VEGF is involved.
Melkersson–Rosenthal Syndrome with Isolated Immunoglobulin E Hypogammaglobulinaemia
Authors: Nakane T , Hatakeyama K , Nakamura K , Aihara M , Nakazawa S
Published: February 2013

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare disorder classically presenting with a triad of recurrent orofacial swelling, facial palsy and a fissured tongue. This case report describes a case of MRS in a patient with isolated immunoglobulin E (IgE) hypogammaglobulinaemia. The 52-year-old woman presented with puffy eyelids, lower lip swelling and right facial nerve palsy. Fissures of the tongue were also noted. On investigation she was found to have a markedly low serum IgE level. This case report clearly indicates that IgE-mediated reactions do not play a significant role in the development of MRS.
A Comparison of Midazolam with Remifentanil for the Prevention of Myoclonic Movements following Etomidate Injection
Authors: Hwang J-Y , Kim J-H , Oh A-Y , Do S-H , Jeon Y-T , Han S-H
Published: February 2013

Etomidate is a popular anaesthetic induction agent, but it frequently causes myoclonic movements. Although both benzodiazepines and opioids reduce myoclonus, there has been no comparative study between these agents. Thus, we conducted a prospective, randomized study to compare midazolam and remifentanil as pre-treatment agents for reducing etomidate-induced myoclonus in 90 adults undergoing surgery. Patients were pre-treated before the etomidate injection, either with saline (Group C), midazolam 0.5 mg/kg (Group M) or remifentanil 1 μg/kg (Group R). Both Groups M and R showed a significantly lower incidence of myoclonus compared with Group C (17%, 17% and 77%, respectively). The incidence of myoclonus was not significantly different between Groups M and R, but 10% ( n = 10) of the patients in Group R experienced remifentanil-related side-effects. We conclude that midazolam is probably a better choice than remifentanil for reducing etomidate-induced myoclonus during anaesthesia induction.
The Role of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) and Leptin in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Atamer A , Ilhan N , Kocyigit Y , Toprak G , Ozbay M , Celik Y
Published: February 2013

We investigated the role of leptin and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in uncomplicated hypertension. We also investigated their relationship with insulin resistance and serum levels of several metabolic parameters, including homocysteine, lipoprotein(a) and malondialdehyde (MDA). A total of 34 untreated newly-diagnosed hypertensive patients (seven men and 27 women; mean age, 57.4 ± 10.1 years) and 38 normotensive healthy subjects (20 men and 18 women; mean age, 55.9 ± 8.7 years) were studied prospectively. Serum leptin, homocysteine, lipoprotein(a), MDA and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were significantly higher in hypertensive patients compared with normotensive subjects. There were no significant differences in ADMA, insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 between the two groups. No correlation was found between serum ADMA and leptin levels. Our findings suggest that high serum leptin and homocysteine levels, oxidative stress and insulin resistance may be important risk factors for atherosclerosis among patients with uncomplicated hypertension.
Pramipexole Safely Replaces Ergot Dopamine Agonists with either Rapid or Slow Switching
Authors: Takahashi H , Nogawa S , Tachibana H , Kawamura J , Abe T , Ogino Y , Kashihara K , Hamada T , Kowa H ,   for the Pramipexole Switching Study (PraSS) Group
Published: February 2013

This prospective, open-label, multicentre study examined the efficacy and safety of rapidly (overnight) or slowly (after 2 weeks of concomitant usage) switching patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) from conventional ergot dopamine agonists (DAs) to the non-ergot DA, pramipexole. Fifty-nine early-to-advanced PD patients with motor symptoms that were inadequately controlled by ergot DAs were enrolled. Patients were switched from ergot derivatives to pramipexole and evaluated every 2 weeks for 12 weeks by Hoehn and Yahr staging, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and a modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale (mESS). The UPDRS III subscores and total UPDRS scores significantly improved, independent of switching method. Adverse events, all of which were mild, occurred in 29.2% of patients. No sudden onset of excessive daytime sleepiness or significant worsening in mESS was seen. Switching patients with PD from ergot DA to pramipexole, using either a slow or rapid switching method, appeared to be well tolerated and effective, although further dose adjustment may be necessary in some patients after the switch.
Functional Involvement of the Organic Cation Transporter 2 (rOct2) in the Renal Uptake of Organic Cations in Rats
Authors: Umehara K-I , Iwatsubo T , Noguchi K , Kamimura H
Published: February 2013

This study examined the contribution made by organic cation transporters (hOCT/rOct) to the saturable component of the renal uptake of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium, tetraethylammonium (TEA), cimetidine and metformin into rOct2-expressing HEK293 cells and rat kidney slices. All the test compounds accumulated in the rat kidney slices in a carrier-mediated manner. The Michaelis–Menten constant ( Km) values for saturable uptake of TEA, cimetidine and metformin into rat kidney slices were relatively comparable with those for the rOct2-expressing HEK293 cells. In addition, the relative uptake activity values of TEA, cimetidine and metformin in rat kidney slices were similar to those in rOct2-expressing HEK293 cells. This suggests that the saturable components involved in the renal uptake of TEA, cimetidine and metformin are mediated mainly by rOct2. The saturable uptake profile of cationic compounds into rat kidney can be evaluated in both cDNA-expressing cells and rat kidney slices, as well as the transporter expression pattern. This approach can also be used to estimate the saturable uptake mechanism of cationic compounds into the human kidney when human kidney slices and hOCT2-expressing cells are used.
Effects of High-monounsaturated Fatty Acid Enteral Formula versus High-carbohydrate Enteral Formula on Plasma Glucose Concentration and Insulin Secretion in Healthy Individuals and Diabetic Patients
Authors: Yokoyama J , Someya Y , Yoshihara R , Ishii H
Published: February 2013

We investigated the effects of high-monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) versus high-carbohydrate enteral formula on post-prandial plasma glucose concentration and insulin response in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy Japanese volunteers. Ten healthy volunteers aged 20.8 ± 1.2 years and 12 diabetic patients with good glycaemic control (glycosylated haemoglobulin < 7%) aged 58.6 ± 7.7 years were randomly assigned to take high-MUFA or high-carbohydrate formula after a 12-h overnight fast. The patients switched to the other formula after 7 days. Post-prandial plasma glucose and insulin response were significantly lower in all subjects after taking high-MUFA formula compared with high-carbohydrate formula. No differences were observed in free fatty acids, triglycerides and plasma glucagon between the two diet groups. In conclusion, a high-MUFA enteral formula suppresses post-prandial hyperglycaemia without exaggerated insulin secretion compared with a high-carbohydrate enteral diet in patients with type 2 diabetes and healthy subjects.
Diagnostic Value of Ischaemia-modified Albumin for Predicting Myocardial Ischaemia during Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy
Authors: Cingozbay BY , Özmen N , Canbolat N , Aparci M , Kardeşoğlu E , Narin Y , Gultepe M , Cebeci BS , Dincturk M
Published: February 2013

During acute ischaemia the N-terminal site of albumin is altered, reducing its binding capacity; the modified protein is termed ischaemia-modified albumin (IMA). IMA is a sensitive marker of acute myocardial ischaemia but its diagnostic value in chronic angina pectoris patients is unclear. We investigated changes in blood levels of IMA during myocardial perfusion scintigraphy in patients with chronic angina pectoris in a study including 26 male and 20 female patients, with mean age 60 years. Technetium 99m perfusion imaging detected myocardial ischaemia in 26 patients. Coronary angiography was carried out in these 26 ischaemic patients. Mean IMA values at rest and peak exercise were significantly higher in the ischaemic than the non-ischaemic group. All IMA values were considered negative for cardiac ischaemia. Peak exercise IMA was significantly lower than the pre-exercise level only in the non-ischaemic group. IMA measurements during myocardial perfusion scintigraphy are not helpful in the diagnosis of myocardial ischaemia in patients with stable angina pectoris.
A Clinical Pilot Study of Fresh Frozen Plasma versus Human Albumin in Paediatric Craniofacial Repair
Authors: Kerner T , Machotta A , Kerner S , Ahlers O , Haberl H , Riess H , Hildebrandt B
Published: February 2013

Paediatric craniofacial surgery (pCFS) regularly requires transfusion of packed red blood cells (pRBC). In this clinical pilot study two different transfusion regimens were prospectively compared concerning pRBC transfusions, postoperative bleeding and other clinical parameters. Thirty infants (aged < 12 months) scheduled for pCFS were assigned to receive fresh frozen plasma (FFP-group, n = 15) or 5% human albumin (HA-group, n = 15) during the entire surgical procedure. Perioperative amounts of pRBC, postoperative bleeding, major complications, duration of stay in the intensive care unit and overall hospital stay were compared. Differences in pRBC transfusions, postoperative bleeding, and duration of intensive care unit stay were not significant and no major complications occurred in either group. A significantly shorter overall hospital stay was observed in favour of the FFP-group. Volume replacement during pCFS can be safely performed with both applied protocols. Our data do not demonstrate a major advantage for FFP use, but further evaluation is necessary.
Giant Hydatid Cyst in the Posterior Fossa of a Child: A Case Report
Authors: Kayaoglu CR
Published: February 2013

A 10-year-old boy was admitted with a 4-month history of ataxic gait, headache, vomiting and diplopia. The headaches had worsened in month 4 and were associated with vomiting during head movement. Cranial computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans revealed a hydatid cyst located in the posterior fossa. The patient underwent suboccipital craniotomy and a cerebellar hydatid cyst (approximately 5 cm in diameter) was removed using Dowling's technique. The diagnosis was confirmed during surgery and by histological examination of a tissue sample from the cyst. The patient was treated with the antihelmintic agent albendazole in combination with antibiotics. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged after 1 week. In conclusion, when a cystic lesion is detected on CT or MRI scans, hydatid disease should be taken into consideration in countries where hydatid infestation is endemic.
Evidence-based Therapy of Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: An Algorithm-guided Approach
Authors: Deja M , Hommel M , Weber-Carstens S , Moss M , von Dossow V , Sander M , Pille C , Spies C
Published: February 2013

Despite considerable research and constantly emerging treatment modalities, the mortality associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has remained virtually unchanged over the last decade. Clinical studies have been unable to show a reduction in mortality for most therapeutic interventions except for low tidal volume ventilation. Failure to prove a mortality benefit might be a result of the varying severity of ARDS in the patients studied. Nevertheless, positive responses to single supportive measures (inhaled nitric oxide, prone positioning and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) have been demonstrated in multiple trials. Criteria for administration, weaning and discontinuation of these supportive interventions have never been described in detail. In this context, implementation of an evidence-based algorithm might facilitate clinical management of severe ARDS. This review summarizes the current evidence base and proposes a new treatment algorithm that aims to prioritize the administration of advanced strategies in a multimodal approach for ARDS.
Telmisartan, an Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blocker, Inhibits Advanced Glycation End-product (AGE)-elicited Hepatic Insulin Resistance via Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor-γ Activation
Authors: Yoshida T , Yamagishi S , Matsui T , Nakamura K , Ueno T , Takeuchi M , Sata M
Published: February 2013

This study examined whether telmisartan, a unique angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker (ARB) with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ)-modulating activity, improved insulin resistance in advanced glycation end-product (AGE)-exposed human hepatoma (Hep3B) cells. AGE increased phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) at serine-307 residues in Hep3B cells. It also decreased tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 and, subsequently, reduced the association of the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase with IRS-1 and glycogen synthesis in insulin-exposed Hep3B cells, all of which were inhibited by telmisartan. The insulin-sensitizing properties of telmisartan in AGE-exposed Hep3B cells were significantly blocked by GW9662, an inhibitor of PPAR-γ. Candesartan, another ARB, did not affect AGEs-induced serine phosphorylation of IRS-1 at serine-307 residues in Hep3B cells. Our study suggests that telmisartan could improve AGE-elicited insulin resistance in Hep3B cells by inhibiting serine phosphorylation of IRS-1, at least in part, via activation of PPAR-γ. Telmisartan may play a protective role against hepatic insulin resistance in diabetes.
Tamsulosin Treatment of Chronic Non-bacterial Prostatitis
Authors: Ye ZQ , Lan RZ , Yang WM , Yao LF , Yu X
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of tamsulosin in the treatment of chronic non-bacterial prostatitis was evaluated in a randomized clinical observation of 105 male outpatients conducted for 90 days. Patients were randomly divided into five groups ( n = 21 per group) according to prostatitis type IIIA or IIIB and therapy regimens (tamsulosin, levofloxacin, or tamsulosin plus levofloxacin combination therapy). National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index scores, expressed prostatic massage test and urodynamic urethral pressure and urethral closure pressure tests were performed to evaluate clinical efficacy of the treatments. Scores for pain, urinary symptoms and quality of life were significantly improved by days 45 and 90 after all treatments in both prostatitis categories. Improvements in symptom scores in the combined treatment group were significantly superior to those in the single treatment groups. Tamsulosin and levofloxacin are both effective in the treatment of, and may have an additive effect in, the treatment of non-bacterial prostatitis.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction by using Otogeneous Hamstring Tendons with Home-based Rehabilitation
Authors: Ugutmen E , Ozkan K , Kilincoglu V , Ozkan FU , Toker S , Eceviz E , Altintas F
Published: February 2013

We investigated patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using otogeneous hamstring tendons with a cross-pin technique to compare a post-operative home-based rehabilitation programme with a clinic-based programme. ACL reconstruction was performed on 104 patients (103 male) by the same surgeon. The mean age of the patients was 31.5 years (range 18–43 years) and the mean time interval between injury and operation was 34.3 months. Patients were randomly allocated to either a home-based ( n = 52) or clinic-based rehabilitation programme ( n = 52). Mean follow-up was 31.1 months (range 12–66 months). Patients underwent a series of examinations before and after surgery in order to evaluate functional recovery of their injured knee. The results demonstrated that using otogeneous hamstring tendons for ACL reconstruction was safe and produced satisfactory results. The study also demonstrated that a home-based rehabilitation programme was as effective as a clinic-based programme.
Does the Atopic Phenotype Prevent Development of Active Tuberculosis Infection?
Authors: Kutlu A , Ciftci F , Bozkanat E , Bozkurt B , Gorur R , Ozturk S , Kartaloglu Z , Taskapan O
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the relationship between the atopic phenotype and the development of active tuberculosis. A total of 82 human immunodeficiency virus-negative males with active pulmonary tuberculosis and 88 healthy controls were enrolled into this prospective study. Serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were measured and skin prick tests performed before initiation of treatment. Skin prick tests were positive in 34.1% of the tuberculosis patients and 39.8% of the controls. Allergic respiratory symptoms were significantly less frequent in skin prick test positive tuberculosis patients (21.4%) compared with skin prick test positive controls (62.9%). Median IgE levels in atopic tuberculosis patients were significantly higher than in atopic controls. The low rate of atopic respiratory complaints seen in the tuberculosis patients, despite having similar allergic skin prick test sensitivities to the controls, could be attributed to a weak T-helper (Th) 2 immune reaction and its effects on Th1–Th2 interaction.
Prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome in Autism: A Prospective Observer-rated Study
Authors: Obaydi H , Puri BK
Published: February 2013

A systematic, prospective observer-rated study was carried out to determine the prevalence of late luteal phase dysphoric disorder (premenstrual syndrome) in women with autism. A group of women with autism and learning disability ( n = 26) was compared with a group of women with a non-autism learning disability ( n = 36) matched for age, in-patient status, intelligence, marital status, parity, behavioural problems and ethnicity. Observers rated DSM-IV symptoms of late luteal phase dysphoric disorder every day from each subject over three consecutive menstrual cycles. Using a premenstrual increase in DSM-IV symptoms of ≥ 30% as evidence of fulfilment of diagnostic criteria, the prevalence of late luteal phase dysphoric disorder was 92% in the autism group compared with 11% in the control group. This difference was highly statistically significant. The principal conclusion from this study is that there is a marked increase in premenstrual syndrome in women with autism compared with matched controls.
Increased Expression of Paxillin is Found in Human Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Tissue Microarray Study
Authors: Li B-Z , Lei W , Zhang C-Y , Zhou F , Li N , Shi S-S , Feng X-L , Chen Z-L , Hang J , Qiu B , Wan J-T , Shao K , Xing X-Z , Tan X-G , Wang Z , Xiong M-H , He J
Published: February 2013

Oesophageal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Currently, the tumour, node, metastasis (TNM) staging system is the primary method for determining its extent and prognosis, however, data suggest this system does not predict prognosis accurately. Research has, therefore, concentrated on searching for specific biomarkers. Paxillin has been shown to play an important role in controlling cell spread and migration. Its over-expression is considered to correlate with the prognosis of some types of cancers, however, the relationship between paxillin expression and clinical outcome in oesophageal cancer has not been investigated. This study determined the expression of paxillin by immunohistochemistry on the tissue microarray of 100 oesophageal squamous cell cancer patients followed up for a mean of 55 months. Paxillin was over-expressed in tumours in 27/100 cases, compared with 6/100 cases for adjacent non-tumoural cells. No correlation occurred between expression of paxillin and overall patient survival, hence paxillin is not an effective prognostic marker in these patients.
The Relationship between Renal Injury and Change in Vitamin D Metabolism in Aged Rats with Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Huang CQ , Ma GZ , Tao MD , Ma XL , Feng J , Liu QX
Published: February 2013

Insulin resistance (IR), IR treated with vitamin D, IR treated with 1α-hydroxyvitamin D (1α-(OH)D), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), T2DM treated with vitamin D and T2DM treated with 1a-(OH)D were studied in animal models using aged Wistar rats. Glucose infusion rates and levels of urinary albumin (UA), serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D) and 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1, 25-(OH)2D) were measured. T2DM rats had higher UA than IR or normal rats, and levels of 25-(OH)D in all models were similar. IR rats had higher 1, 25-(OH)2D levels than T2DM rats, and had lower 1, 25-(OH)2D levels than normal rats. Treating IR or T2DM rats with vitamin D had no effect on 25-(OH)D or 1, 25-(OH)2D. Administration of 1α-(OH)D significantly increased 1, 25-(OH)2D in IR rats to above-normal levels, and significantly increased 1, 25-(OH)2D in T2DM rats to normal levels. In IR or T2DM, abnormal vitamin D metabolism is characterized by 1, 25-(OH)2D deficiency and is related to renal injury.
Influence of Vaccination and Surgery on HLA-DR Expression in Patients with Upper Aerodigestive Tract Cancer
Authors: Spies CD , Kip M , Lau A , Sander M , Breuer JP , Meyerhoefer J , Paschen C , Schumacher G , Volk HD , Wernecke KD , von Dossow V
Published: February 2013

Major surgery is associated with an increased risk of post-operative immunosuppression and infections. We investigated the influence of influenza vaccination on cell-mediated immune responses in cancer patients undergoing either surgical or conservative therapy. Forty patients with an upper aerodigestive tract tumour were allocated to either a surgical or non-surgical treatment course. Patients within each group were randomized to the vaccination or non-vaccination group. Vaccination was performed twice before surgery or conservative treatment. Human leucocyte antigen receptor (HLA-DR) expression on monocytes was analysed by flow cytometry. In the surgical patients, HLA-DR expression on day 1 after surgery decreased in both the vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups. Vaccinated non-surgical patients showed significantly increased HLA-DR expression levels compared with the non-vaccinated patients. This pilot study demonstrated that vaccination increased monocyte HLA-DR expression in conservatively-treated cancer patients whereas surgery abrogated this response. Vaccination before surgery, therefore, might not help to maintain immune reactivity after surgery.
Anatomical Variations of the Coronary Sinus Ostium Area of the Human Heart
Authors: Pejković B , Krajnc I , Anderhuber F , Kos̆utić D
Published: February 2013

Classic anatomical dissection of 150 heart specimens from adults aged 18–80 years was performed. The Thebesian valve was absent in 20% of cases and, in these, 4% had a large ostial valve of the middle cardiac vein in front of the coronary sinus ostium. Fibres of Chiari were found in 10% of cases. Ostia of the middle cardiac vein, posterior veins of the left ventricle, small cardiac vein and deep cardiac veins were present in the distal 10 mm of the coronary sinus. Some samples had ostial and/or parietal valves or antivalves that sometimes contained muscular fibres. Distal accessory parietal valves (2%) and antivalves (1%) of the coronary sinus wall were found at a distance of 4–7 mm from its ostium. The frequency and variability of anatomical structures in the area of the coronary sinus ostium probably influence the haemodynamics of this area. Knowledge of and being able to identify these anatomical variations may help in identifying and overcoming potential difficulties in treating arrythmias and in cardiosurgery.
Multiple Primary Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumours within the Spinal Epidural Space with Non-concurrent Onset
Authors: Feng JF , Liang YM , Bao YH , Pan YH , Jiang JY
Published: February 2013

A case of multiple primary primitive neuroectodermal tumours (PNETs), which occurred at different levels of the spinal epidural space successively over a period of 8 months, is reported. A 24-year-old male, presenting with rapidly progressive paralysis, hyperthesia and a posterior epidural mass extending from T8 to T10 revealed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), exhibited a good recovery after initial emergency surgery. Lower back pain, chest pain and paralysis were subsequently reported. Spinal MRI in month 7 revealed a mass extending from T12 to L1 and another mass extending from T4 to T5 was detected epidurally in month 8. Additional operations were performed and radiotherapy was given. Pathological findings were consistent with PNETs and symptoms improved with treatment, particularly following each surgical excision.