bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel mechanism of immune regulation: interferon‐γ regulates retention of CD4+ T cells during delayed type hypersensitivity
Authors: Seabrook Tim J. , Borron Paul J. , Dudler Lisbeth , Hay John B. , Young Alan J.
Published: September 2005

The local immune response is characterized by an increase in the rate of entry of lymphocytes from the blood into regional lymph nodes and changes in the output of cells in lymph. While significant data are available regarding the role of inflammation‐induced vascular adhesion processes in regulating lymphocyte entry into inflamed tissues and lymph nodes, relatively little is known about the molecular processes governing lymphocyte exit into efferent lymph. We have defined a novel role for lymphatic endothelial cells in the regulation of lymphocyte exit during a delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response to mycobacterial purified protein derivative (PPD). Soluble, pro‐adhesive factors were identified in efferent lymph concomitant with reduced lymphocyte output in lymph, which significantly increased lymphocyte binding to lymphatic endothelial cells. While all lymphocyte subsets were retained, CD4+ T cells appeared less susceptible than others. Among a panel of cytokines in inflammatory lymph plasma, interferon (IFN)‐γ alone appeared responsible for this retention. In vitro adhesion assays using physiological levels of IFN‐γ confirmed the interaction between recirculating lymphocytes and lymphatic endothelium. These data demonstrate a new level of immune regulation, whereby the exit of recirculating lymphocytes from lymph nodes is selectively and sequentially regulated by cytokines in a manner equally as complex as lymphocyte recruitment.
Cholesterol depletion inhibits src family kinase‐dependent calcium mobilization and apoptosis induced by rituximab crosslinking
Authors: Unruh Tammy L. , Li Haidong , Mutch Cathlin M. , Shariat Neda , Grigoriou Lana , Sanyal Ratna , Brown Christopher B. , Deans Julie P.
Published: September 2005

The monoclonal antibody (mAb) rituximab produces objective clinical responses in patients with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma and antibody‐based autoimmune diseases. Mechanisms mediating B‐cell depletion by rituximab are not completely understood and may include direct effects of signalling via the target antigen CD20. Like most but not all CD20 mAbs, rituximab induces a sharp change in the solubility of the CD20 protein in the non‐ionic detergent Triton‐X‐100, reflecting a dramatic increase in the innate affinity of CD20 for membrane raft signalling domains. Apoptosis induced by rituximab hypercrosslinking has been shown to require src family kinases (SFK), which are enriched in rafts. In this report we provide experimental evidence that SFK‐dependent apoptotic signals induced by rituximab are raft dependent. Cholesterol depletion prevented the association of hypercrosslinked CD20 with detergent‐insoluble rafts, and attenuated both calcium mobilization and apoptosis induced with rituximab. CD20 cocapped with the raft‐associated transmembrane adaptor LAB/NTAL after hypercrosslinking with CD20 mAbs, regardless of their ability to induce a change in the affinity of CD20 for rafts. Taken together, the data demonstrate that CD20 hypercrosslinking via rituximab activates SFKs and downstream signalling events by clustering membrane rafts in which antibody‐bound CD20 is localized in a high‐affinity configuration.
Regulation of immune cell adhesion and migration by regulator of adhesion and cell polarization enriched in lymphoid tissues
Authors: Kinashi Tatsuo , Katagiri Koko
Published: September 2005

Rap1 has emerged as an important regulator of adhesion in multicellular organisms. In the immune system, Rap1 functions as an inside‐out signalling molecule for leucocyte integrins following stimulation with chemokines or antigens. Regulator of adhesion and cell polarization enriched in lymphoid tissues (RAPL) is a novel Rap1 effector molecule that mediates Rap1 signalling to integrins. The Rap1–RAPL complex regulates the spatial distribution of the integrin lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 as well as cell polarization. The linking of inside‐out signalling with polarization synergistically promotes highly efficient lymphocyte trafficking. Targeted deletion of RAPL in mice has demonstrated multiple indispensable roles for this protein in lymphocyte and dendritic cell trafficking critical for immunosurveillance.
Natural killer T cells are required for the development of a superantigen‐driven T helper type 2 immune response in mice
Authors: Nomizo Auro , Postol Edilberto , De Alencar Raquel , Cardillo Fabíola , Mengel José
Published: September 2005

We show, here, that one single injection or weekly injections of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), starting in 1‐day‐old newborn mice, induced a powerful immune response with a T helper type 2 (Th2) pattern, as judged by the isotype and cytokine profile, with the production of large amounts of SEB‐specific immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1), detectable levels of SEB‐specific IgE and increased production of interleukin‐4 by spleen cells. These protocols also induced an increase in the levels of total IgE in the serum. Memory of SEB was transferred to secondary recipients by using total spleen cells from primed animals. The secondary humoral response in transferred mice was diminished if spleen cells from SEB‐treated mice were previously depleted of CD3+ or Vβ8+ T cells or NK1.1+ cells. In vivo depletion of NK1.1+ cells in adult mice resulted in a marked reduction in the SEB‐specific antibody response in both the primary and secondary immune responses. Additionally, purified NK1.1+ T cells were able to perform SEB‐specific helper B‐cell actions in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that NK1.1+ T cells are required for the full development of humoral immunological memory, whilst making neonatal tolerance to SEB unachievable.
In ovo vitelline duct ligation results in transient changes of bursal microenvironments
Authors: Felföldi Balázs , Imre Gergely , Igyártó Botond , Iván Judit , Mihalik Rudolf , Lackó Erzsébet , Oláh Imre , Magyar Attila
Published: September 2005

The avian bursa of Fabricius has a direct connection to the cloaca via the bursal duct. Using the bursal duct ligation technique, it has been clearly shown that the B cells of the bursal follicles develop under the influence of cloacal antigens. These antigens have been suggested to be present on the bursal secretory dendritic cells in immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐containing complexes. We studied the effect of maternal (yolk) antigens on the early development of B cells and the appearance of IgG‐containing complexes of the bursal dendritic cells with a novel embryo manipulation technique, in ovo vitelline duct ligation. This operation blocked the direct (intestinal) transport of yolk substances into the intestine, but left the vitelline circulation intact. Vitelline duct ligation performed on embryonic day 17 resulted in serious but transient bursal underdevelopment during the first week of life: (1) IgG and the follicular dendritic cell marker 74·3 were not detectable on the bursal secretory dendritic cells, in spite of a normal serum IgG level and free communication with the cloacal lumen; (2) the number of B cells in the follicles was greatly reduced and they showed an altered phenotype, resembling that of the prebursal B cells. The intracloacal administration of different proteins effectively restored the bursal phenotype. These data suggest that maternal antigens indirectly help the maturation of bursal secretory dendritic cells and concomitantly that of B cells during the first week of life.
Numeracy for adults with Down syndrome: it's a matter of quality of life
Authors: Faragher R. , Brown R. I.
Published: September 2005

Background  Numeracy development is widely accepted as critical for adults in the general community which is equally the case for adults with Down syndrome. This paper reports some of the findings of a study including the research question: What is the justification for numeracy development for adults with Down syndrome? Investigating this question led to the search for a framework to support the ongoing development of numeracy.

Method  The research used a case study methodology. Five adults were observed and interviewed in two contexts each. The data were analyzed to identify links to the quality of life model.

Results  The research illustrates how a quality of life approach can be used to justify and guide the lifelong development of numeracy. Data from the case studies linked numeracy to quality of life under the principles of personal contexts, variability, life‐span perspective, values, choices and personal control, perceptions and self‐image.

Conclusions  The principles of quality of life can provide a framework for the development of numeracy in the context of adulthood and Down syndrome. Preparation for the numeracy needs of a long and satisfying adulthood should begin in early childhood, continue in schools with the teaching of underlying mathematics concepts and skills, and be modified and refined throughout adulthood by the use of a numeracy development plan. Carers and professionals interacting in the contexts need to adopt a teaching role for numeracy.
Health issues and quality of life in women with intellectual disability
Authors: Kyrkou M.
Published: September 2005

Background  Although there is anecdotal evidence of an increase in both period pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women with intellectual disabilities (ID), there are only brief mentions of it in the literature.

Method  Questionnaires were distributed to parents of women with Down syndrome (DS) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), resulting in 24 respondents from Australia and New Zealand. The purpose of the study was to ascertain how period pain and PMS presents in women with ID.

Results  Results were analyzed by disability group, and communication ability. Women with DS were more often able to state that they had pain, or point to the location of the pain than women with either autism or Asperger Syndrome (AS). Additionally, women with DS or ASD appeared to have a higher rate of period pain than women in the general population, but the presence of pain more often had to be deduced from behavioural changes.

Conclusion  Further research with a larger number of women with disability, and across a wider range of disabilities is required to determine generalizability of these findings.
Factor structure of the Schalock and Keith Quality of Life Questionnaire (QOL‐Q): validation on Mexican and Spanish samples
Authors: Caballo C. , Crespo M. , Jenaro C. , Verdugo M. A. , Martinez J. L.
Published: September 2005

Background  The Quality of Life Questionnaire (QOL‐Q) is used widely to evaluate the quality of life of persons with intellectual disability (ID). Its validity for use with Spanish‐speaking cultures has been demonstrated for individuals with visual disabilities, but not for those with physical or intellectual disabilities. Such was the purpose of the present study.

Method  Two samples were administered the QOL‐Q under standardized procedures. The first sample was composed of 209 Mexican participants with physical disabilities; the second was composed of 424 Spanish participants with ID. The hypothesis tested was: the applicability (i.e. etic properties) of the measure across countries and respondents would be demonstrated if reliability data and if factor composition were similar to the original measure. Cronbach's alpha was used to test reliability and exploratory factor analyses were used to test validity (i.e. factor structure).

Results  Data indicated that the reliability and factor structure was similar to that reported in the questionnaire's standardization manual and consistent with that reported in a number of Anglo‐Saxon countries.

Conclusion  The present study offers additional support for the valid use of the QOL‐Q with Spanish‐speaking populations.
Spanish adaptation and validation of the Family Quality of Life Survey
Authors: Verdugo M. A. , Córdoba L. , Gómez J.
Published: September 2005

Background Assessing the quality of life (QOL) for families that include a person with a disability have recently become a major emphasis in cross‐cultural QOL studies. The present study examined the reliability and validity of the Family Quality of Life Survey (FQOL) on a Spanish sample.

Method and results The sample comprised 385 families who were administered the FQOL in Cali, Columbia. The FQOL showed adequate temporal stability (r = 0.68 on Importance andr = 0.78 on Satisfaction) and excellent internal consistency: Cronbach's alpha of 0.96 for Importance and 0.95 for Satisfaction. The confirmatory factor analysis yielded high fit indices, thus confirming that the factor structure of the FQOL as adapted for Spanish people fitted the five‐factor model proposed by the survey's authors.

Conclusions The study provides a valid instrument for the research of the QOL of those families that have a child with a disability within Spanish‐speaking community.
Quality of life is not only for people served – it is also for staff: the Multi‐Focal Approach
Authors: Baum N.
Published: September 2005

Background  To date, little attention has been given to the concept of quality of life around human resources employment programmes for staff working with persons with a dual diagnosis.

Method  This article describes the implementation of quality of life principles to service provision for people with dual diagnosis and its application to staff training.

Results  This type of experiential training facilitated change in staff's attitude to, and treatment of, the people served.

Conclusion  Human resources development programmes should be based on the same core quality of life principles and domains that guide service delivery on the individual level.
Hepatic lipase polymorphism and increased risk of peripheral arterial disease
Authors: ELLER P. , SCHGOER W. , MUELLER T. , TANCEVSKI I. , WEHINGER A. , ULMER H. , FOEGER B. , HALTMAYER M. , RITSCH A. , PATSCH J. R.
Published: September 2005

Background.  Hepatic lipase plays a key role in the metabolism of pro‐atherogenic and anti‐atherogenic lipoproteins affecting their plasma level as well as their physico‐chemical properties. We hypothesized single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of the hepatic lipase gene to be associated with an increased risk for peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Methods.  A total of 241 patients with PAD and 241 controls matched for sex and age (±2 years) were genotyped cross‐sectionally for the −250 single nucleotide polymorphism in the hepatic lipase promoter.

Results.  The frequency for the −250A allele in patients with PAD was 0.203, whereas it was 0.147 in the controls (P = 0.022). Hepatic lipase promoter polymorphism distribution remained significantly different between cases and controls after multivariate logistic regression analysis (P = 0.021). The odds ratio of the −250A hepatic lipase allele for the PAD was 1.69 (95% confidence interval of 1.08–2.64), when adjusted for current smoking, arterial hypertension, cholesterol, triglycerides, HbA1C, total homocysteine and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein.

Conclusion.  Previous data in patients with ischaemic heart disease have suggested a pro‐atherogenic role of low hepatic lipase levels. Our results extend these data to the vascular territory of the lower limbs, such that hepatic lipase promoter variation represents a genetic risk factor of PAD.
The paraoxonase‐2‐310 polymorphism is associated with the presence of microvascular complications in diabetes mellitus
Authors: MACKNESS B. , Mcelduff P. , MACKNESS M. I.
Published: September 2005

Objective.  To investigate the paraoxonase‐2 (PON2)‐C/S310 polymorphism and its relationship to the presence of diabetic complications and glycaemic control.

Design.  Case–control study.

Setting.  One study centre at University hospital.

Materials and methods.  The subjects were people with type 2 diabetes (n = 252), type 1 diabetes (n = 152) and healthy controls (n = 282). The PON2‐C/S310 polymorphism was measured by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Lipids and lipoproteins were measured by standard clinical chemistry methods. Diabetes and diabetic complications were defined by World Health Organization criteria.

Results.  There was an over‐representation of the C/C310 genotype in those with diabetes and microvascular complications (type 2 diabetes P = 0.043, type 1 diabetes P = 0.052, both populations combined P = 0.014). The PON2‐C/S310 polymorphism was also associated with glycaemic control. C310/C310 homozygotes had the highest HbA1c concentration (P = 0.020 type 2 diabetes, P = 0.065 type 1 diabetes, P = 0.035 both populations combined). There was no association between the PON2‐310 polymorphism and lipid and lipoprotein concentrations.

Conclusions.  PON2 could be directly involved in protecting critical enzymes or organelles against oxidative damage; PON2 may thus predispose to the development of microvascular complications.
Mitochondrial phylogeography of the Eurasian beaverCastor fiberL.
Authors: DURKA WALTER , BABIK WIESLAW , DUCROZ JEAN‐FRANCOIS , HEIDECKE DIETRICH , ROSELL FRANK , SAMJAA RAVČIGIJN , P. SAVELJEV ALEXANDER , STUBBE ANNEGRET , ULEVIČIUS ALIUS , STUBBE MICHAEL
Published: September 2005

Nucleotide variation in an approximately 490 bp fragment of the mitochondrial DNA control region (mtDNA CR) was used to describe the genetic variation and phylogeographical pattern in the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) over its entire range. The sampling effort was focused on the relict populations that survived a drastic population bottleneck, caused by overhunting, at the end of the 19th century. A total of 152 individuals grouped into eight populations representing all currently recognized subspecies were studied. Sixteen haplotypes were detected, none of them shared among populations. Intrapopulation sequence variation was very low, most likely a result of the severe bottleneck. Extreme genetic structure could result from human‐mediated extinction of intermediate populations, but it could also be an effect of prior substantial structuring of the beaver populations with watersheds of major Eurasian rivers acting as barriers to gene flow. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of two mtDNA lineages: eastern (Poland, Lithuania, Russia and Mongolia) and western (Germany, Norway and France), the former comprising more divergent haplotypes. The low level of sequence divergence of the entire cytochromebgene among six individuals representing six subspecies suggests differentiation during the last glacial period and existence of multiple glacial refugia. At least two evolutionary significant units (ESU) can be identified, the western and the eastern haplogroup. The individual relict populations should be regarded as management units, the eastern subspecies possibly also as ESUs. Guidelines for future translocations and reintroductions are proposed.
Colonization and dispersal in a social species, the Bechstein's bat (Myotis bechsteinii)
Authors: KERTH GERALD , PETIT ERIC
Published: September 2005

Metapopulation genetic models consider that colonization and dispersal are distinct behaviours. However, whether colonization and dispersal indeed reflect different biological processes in nature is unclear. One possibility to test this assumption is to assess patterns of autosomal and mitochondrial genetic structure in species with strict female philopatry, such as the communally breeding Bechstein's bat. In this species, mitochondrial DNA can spread only when females establish new colonies, and autosomal DNA is transmitted among colonies only when females mate with solitary males born in foreign colonies. Investigating the genetic structure among 37 colonies, we found that autosomal genes followed an island model on a regional scale and a model of isolation by distance on a larger geographical scale. In contrast, mitochondrial genetic structure revealed no pattern of isolation by distance at a large scale but exhibited an effect of ecological barriers on a regional scale. Our results provide strong empirical evidence that colonization and dispersal do not follow the same behavioural rules in this bat, supporting the assumption of metapopulation genetic models.
Gap, a mycobacterial specific integral membrane protein, is required for glycolipid transport to the cell surface
Authors: Sondén Berit , Kocíncová Dana , Deshayes Caroline , Euphrasie Daniel , Rhayat Lamya , Laval Françoise , Frehel Claude , Daffé Mamadou , Etienne Gilles , Reyrat Jean‐Marc
Published: September 2005

The cell envelope of mycobacteria is a complex multilaminar structure that protects the cell from stresses encountered in the environment, and plays an important role against the bactericidal activity of immune system cells. The outermost layer of the mycobacterial envelope typically contains species‐specific glycolipids. Depending on the mycobacterial species, the major glycolipid localized at the surface can be either a phenolglycolipid or a peptidoglycolipid (GPL). Currently, the mechanism of how these glycolipids are addressed to the cell surface is not understood. In this study, by using a transposon library of Mycobacterium smegmatis and a simple dye assay, six genes involved in GPLs synthesis have been characterized. All of these genes are clustered in a single genomic region of approximately 60 kb. We show by biochemical analyses that two non‐ribosomal peptide synthetases, a polyketide synthase, a methyltransferase and a member of the MmpL family are required for the biosynthesis of the GPLs backbone. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a small integral membrane protein of 272 amino acids named Gap (gap: GPL addressing protein) is specifically required for the transport of the GPLs to the cell surface. This protein is predicted to contain six transmembrane segments and possesses homologues across the mycobacterial genus, thus delineating a new protein family. This Gap family represents a new paradigm for the transport of small molecules across the mycobacterial envelope, a critical determinant of mycobacterial virulence.
Occurrence of fungal pathogens of carrots on wooden boxes used for storage
Authors: Kora C. , McDonald M. R. , Boland G. J.
Published: September 2005

Infested wooden boxes, previously used for carrot storage, were sampled in four commercial carrot production farms in Bradford Marsh, Ontario, and screened for fungal occurrence. At least 128 and 465 fungal isolates were recovered from these boxes in 2001 and 2002, respectively, and were classified into 10 taxonomic groups, including Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium spp., Mucor spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizoctonia carotae, Rhizopus spp., Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Trichoderma spp. A subsample of 27 putative pathogenic isolates was further tested for the ability to cause disease on carrots and to colonize wood surfaces under growth room and cold storage conditions. Approximately 60% of the taxa growing on wood caused lesions upon contact with intact carrots in cold storage. Isolates of S. sclerotiorum, B. cinerea and R. carotae caused the most severe diseases, developed most extensively on wooden surfaces in cold storage, and represented 12% of the recovered fungi. Isolates of Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Mucor spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp. and Trichoderma spp. caused negligible or no disease on carrots and represented 88% of recovered fungi. Several of these fungi, however, showed potential to colonize wooden surfaces and cause disease on sliced carrots. This study suggests that pathogenic inocula occurring on used wooden boxes can initiate disease upon contact with healthy carrots and reusing infested boxes can affect carrots in storage.
Effects of foliar‐ and root‐applied silicon on the enhancement of induced resistance to powdery mildew in Cucumis sativus
Authors: Liang Y. C. , Sun W. C. , Si J. , Römheld V.
Published: September 2005

Two cucumber (Cucumis sativus) cultivars differing in their resistance to powdery mildew, Ningfeng No. 3 (susceptible) and Jinchun No. 4 (resistant), were used to study the effects of foliar‐ and root‐applied silicon on resistance to infection by Podosphaera xanthii (syn. Sphaerotheca fuliginea) and the production of pathogenesis‐related proteins (PRs). The results indicated that inoculation with P. xanthii significantly suppressed subsequent infection by powdery mildew compared with noninoculation, regardless of Si application. Root‐applied Si significantly suppressed powdery mildew, the disease index being lower in Si‐supplied than in Si‐deprived plants, regardless of inoculation treatment. The resistant cultivar had a more constant lower disease index than the susceptible cultivar, irrespective of inoculation or Si treatment. Moreover, with root‐applied Si, activities of PRs (for example peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase and chitinase) were significantly enhanced in inoculated lower leaves or noninoculated upper leaves in inoculated plants of both cultivars. Root‐applied Si significantly decreased the activity of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase in inoculated leaves, but increased it in noninoculated upper leaves. However, Si treatment failed to change significantly the activity of PRs in plants without fungal attack. Compared to the control (no Si), foliar‐applied Si had no effects either on the suppression of subsequent infection by P. xanthii or on the activity of PRs, irrespective of inoculation. Based on the findings in this study and previous reports, it was concluded that foliar‐applied Si can effectively control infections by P. xanthii only via the physical barrier of Si deposited on leaf surfaces, and/or osmotic effect of the silicate applied, but cannot enhance systemic acquired resistance induced by inoculation, while continuously root‐applied Si can enhance defence resistance in response to infection by P. xanthii in cucumber.
New severe strains of Melon necrotic spot virus: symptomatology and sequencing
Authors: Kubo C. , Nakazono‐Nagaoka E. , Hagiwara K. , Kajihara H. , Takeuchi S. , Matsuo K. , Ichiki T. U. , Omura T.
Published: September 2005

New strains of Melon necrotic spot virus (MNSV), designated MNSV‐YS and MNSV‐KS, caused much more severe growth retardation on melon plants than MNSV‐NH, which was previously reported as the most severe strain of MNSV in Japan. MNSV‐YS spread much more quickly than MNSV‐NH in infected plants, and induced more severe growth retardation, even though the appearance of necrotic lesions on inoculated cotyledons was much slower. MNSV‐KS had properties intermediate between those of the other two strains. The results suggest that faster‐spreading strains can multiply more rapidly as a result of lower levels of activity in inducing necrotic lesions in melon plants. The complete sequences of MNSV‐YS and MNSV‐KS were determined, and an RT–PCR–RFLP method based on these sequences was successfully developed to detect and discriminate between the three strains.
Variability in the coat protein of Lily symptomless virus isolates infecting various lily species
Authors: Singh A. K. , Hallan V. , Ram R. , Zaidi A. A.
Published: September 2005

The coat protein sequences were characterized of Lily symptomless virus (LSV) isolates infecting Lilium longiflorum, Lilium tigrinum, Hymenocalis littoralis (spider lily) and Asiatic and Oriental hybrid lilies in India. The Indian isolates showed 78–96% homology with each other. With LSV isolates from elsewhere in the world, the Indian isolates showed 83–98% homology. The LSV‐L (L. longiflorum) and LSV‐A (Asiatic hybrid) isolates had unique stretches in the middle portion of the protein not found in other LSV isolates, even the Indian ones. The LSV gene sequence from the spider lily isolate (LSV‐S) was reported for the first time outside the Liliaceae. LSV‐S was 84–96% similar to the other Indian isolates at the protein level. The isolate infecting tiger lily (LSV‐T) was found to be different from the characterized isolates from elsewhere in the world (78–84% homology at the protein level). At the same time, LSV‐T showed much variability in the C‐terminal of the protein. A stretch of 41 amino acids in the C‐terminal was unique to this isolate. LSV‐T is proposed as a distinct isolate of LSV infecting L. tigrinum indigenous to India.
K+ current regulates calcium‐activated chloride current‐induced afterdepolarization in axotomized sensory neurons
Authors: Hilaire Cécile , Campo Brice , André Sylvain , Valmier Jean , Scamps Frédérique
Published: September 2005

One of the major electrophysiological effects of axotomy is a hyperexcitability of injured afferents that is thought to be involved in peripheral neuropathic pain. The molecular determinants of injured sensory neuron excitability are complex and not all have been identified. We have previously shown that sciatic nerve section upregulates the Ca2+‐activated Cl– current in subsets of medium and large sensory neurons. In the peripheral nervous system, the Ca2+‐activated Cl– current can promote afterdepolarization (ADP) and may therefore be involved in excitability. In this study, we set the conditions for Ca2+‐activated Cl– current activation during the electrical activity of axotomized sensory neurons. We used the whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique and Ca2+ fluorescence measurements to record electrical activity or ionic currents associated with intracellular Ca2+ transients. An analysis of Ca2+ fluorescence variation under Ca2+‐activated Cl– current activation showed that the Ca2+ sensitivity of the Ca2+‐activated Cl– current did not allow activation upon one action potential (AP) but instead necessitated intracellular Ca2+ loading under high‐frequency electrical activity or AP lengthening. Nevertheless, ADP was exclusively recorded under AP lengthening following K+ current inhibition with either extracellular tetraethylammonium or intracellular Cs+. The measurement of APs and ionic currents associated with the use of niflumic acid to inhibit Cl– currents showed that the Ca2+‐activated Cl– current was responsible for the ADP observed during K+ current inhibition. Thus, the Ca2+‐activated Cl– current‐induced ADP in axotomized sensory neurons is regulated by K+ current density.
6‐Hydroxydopamine‐induced alterations in blood–brain barrier permeability
Authors: Carvey P. M. , Zhao C. H. , Hendey B. , Lum H. , Trachtenberg J. , Desai B. S. , Snyder J. , Zhu Y. G. , Ling Z. D.
Published: September 2005

Vascular inflammation is well known for its ability to compromise the function of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Whether inflammation on the parenchymal side of the barrier, such as that associated with Parkinson's‐like dopamine (DA) neuron lesions, similarly disrupts BBB function, is unknown. We assessed BBB integrity by examining the leakage of FITC‐labeled albumin or horseradish peroxidase from the vasculature into parenchyma in animals exposed to the DA neurotoxin 6‐hydroxydopamine (6OHDA). Unilateral injections of 6OHDA into the striatum or the medial forebrain bundle produced increased leakage in the ipsilateral substantia nigra and striatum 10 and 34 days following 6OHDA. Microglia were markedly activated and DA neurons were reduced by the lesions. The areas of BBB leakage were associated with increased expression of P‐glycoprotein and β3‐integrin expression suggesting, respectively, a compensatory response to inflammation and possible angiogenesis. Behavioural studies revealed that domperidone, a DA antagonist that normally does not cross the BBB, attenuated apomorphine‐induced stereotypic behaviour in animals with 6OHDA lesions. This suggests that drugs which normally have no effect in brain can enter following Parkinson‐like lesions. These data suggest that the events associated with DA neuron loss compromise BBB function.
Aerophagia and anesthesia: an unusual cause of ventilatory insufficiency in a neonate
Authors: LALWANI KIRK
Published: September 2005

We describe a healthy neonate with abdominal distention, inadequate ventilation, and delayed extubation during anesthesia for minor surgery. Following rectal decompression and successful extubation, extreme abdominal distention recurred postoperatively after ingestion of clear fluids. We elicited a history of frequent and excessive flatus from the parents, and abdominal radiography revealed distended loops of small bowel with small lung volumes suggestive of aerophagia. The differential diagnosis of aerophagia is reviewed, the anesthetic implications discussed, and relevant literature pertaining to this condition summarized.
Three cases of PICU sedation with isoflurane delivered by the ‘AnaConDa®’
Authors: SACKEY PETER V. , MARTLING CLAES‐ROLAND , RADELL PETER J.
Published: September 2005

Prolonged sedation in the pediatric intensive care unit may be difficult because of tolerance, drug dependence and withdrawal, drug interactions and unwanted drug effects. We present three patients sedated with isoflurane via the Anesthetic Conserving Device, AnaConDa®. AnaConDa® is a modified heat and moisture exchanger that allows evaporation and delivery of inhalational anesthetics without an anesthesia machine, vaporizer or adapted ventilator. Two patients with abdominal complications and prolonged sedation for mechanical ventilation were converted to isoflurane sedation for several days. The third patient with refractory status epilepticus received isoflurane to treat epileptiform electroencephalogram activity. Patients weighing 40 and 30 kg were treated with AnaConDa® placed at the Y‐piece, while the patient weighing 20 kg was treated with AnaConDa® in the inspiratory limb of the respiratory circuit. Adequate sedation was achieved with endtidal isoflurane concentration of 0.3–0.4%, while antiepileptic effect was achieved at a higher dose, 0.9%. Intravenous sedatives could be reduced or discontinued during isoflurane sedation. Inhaled sedation of isoflurane with AnaConDa® was effective in these patients. It may provide an alternative in difficult cases needing prolonged sedation and should be evaluated further.
Continuous Three‐Dimensional Examination of Interior Hair Structure
Authors: Tanaka K.‐I. , Tango Y. , Shimmoto K.
Published: September 2005

The ability to continuously examine the interior hair structure throughout a treatment process is very important in designing effective hair products. Microscopy is commonly used to observe the interior of hair, but this method requires a sliced sample, making continuous observation impossible. Use of X‐ray computed tomography (CT) as a non‐destructive measurement has been proposed, but this method has a disadvantage in that it is impossible to obtain full‐color interior images of the sample. Thus, a non‐destructive method for continuous, full‐color examination of the interior hair structure has been lacking. In this study a new method is proposed that enables non‐destructive and continuous measurement of the interior hair structure with color information. In our method, optical CT is used for reconstruction of the interior hair structure. Our new theories enabled us to solve the crucial problem of the large observational error of traditional optical CT systems caused by internal light scattering and to make its practical application possible. A new optical CT system based on our method was implemented. This system displayed sufficient accuracy when the phantom image was measured, and clear and full‐color cross‐sectional images were obtained without destruction of the sample when human hair was observed. When the bleaching and dyeing processes were continuously measured, changes in the interior hair with time could be observed. These results clearly indicate that our new method provides a powerful tool for research and product development.
Compatibility Testing of Colored Cosmetics – A New Tool for Objective Testing Near Infrared Remission Spectroscopy (NIR‐RS)
Authors: Rohr M. , Ernst N. , Schrader A.
Published: September 2005

Previous methods for skin compatibility testing of colored cosmetics were limited by their ability to detect erythema reactions (reddening) underneath non‐transparent products. The objective of this study is to present a new spectroscopic method to quantify reddening of human skin in vivo below colored cosmetics (e.g. hair dye, lipstick, makeup). The skin compatibility of non‐transparent cosmetic products was determined by detection of a remission band in the near‐infrared spectral region.

In this study a spectrophotometer with a short arc xenon lamp and a single monochromator on the excitation side as well as an emission monochromator with a near‐infrared photodiode (NIR photodiode) on the detection side was used. To induce an erythema reaction different test areas were treated with a 1 molar solution of ammonia. Afterwards they were colored with a permanent oxidative hair dye or lipstick. Before the coloring procedure, the baseline state of the test areas was documented by measuring the remission in the range from 1050 nm to 1250 nm. This measurement was repeated after the erythema reaction had been covered by a colored cosmetic.

The results of data analysis revealed a remission band at approximately 1150 nm that was directly linked to the intensity of the erythema reaction. Non‐visible reddening of the skin thus becomes measurable with this new method regardless of the optical properties of the product tested.
Anti‐Wrinkle Therapy: Significant New Findings in the Non‐Invasive Cosmetic Treatment of Skin Wrinkles with Beta‐Glucan
Authors: Pillai R. , Redmond M. , Röding J.
Published: September 2005

Oat beta‐glucan is a water soluble, linear polymer of glucose consisting of 1,4 (70%) and 1,3 (30%) linkages with an average molecular weight of 1 × 106 Da. Scientific reports indicate beta‐glucan is a film‐forming moisturizer, a biological response modifier, and a promoter of wound healing. Our objective was to study the penetration of oat (1,4:1,3) beta‐glucan in human skin models and to evaluate clinically its efficacy for reducing fine‐lines and wrinkles. Penetration studies performed on human abdominal skin used a single application of 0.5% beta‐glucan solution at a dose of 5 mg per cm2. The results showed that beta‐glucan, despite its large molecular size, deeply penetrated the skin into the epidermis and dermis. A clinical study of 27 subjects was performed to evaluate the effects of beta‐glucan on facial fine‐lines and wrinkles. After 8 weeks of treatment, digital image analysis of silicone replicas indicated a significant reduction of wrinkle depth and height, and overall roughness.

This work is the first ex vivo and in vivo demonstration of the physiological effects of beta‐glucan in the penetration and restructuring of human tissue. The study supports the use of oat beta‐glucan in the care and maintenance of healthy skin and the cosmetic treatment of the signs of aging.
Tracking Intersensory Properties of Cosmetic Products via Psycho‐Physiological Assessment
Authors: Eisfeld W. , Schaefer F. , Boucsein W. , Stolz C.
Published: September 2005

Intersensory phenomena frequently occur during the subjective assessment of consumer products and are very difficult to measure properly in an objective way. In earlier studies, the objective emotional assessment (OEA) technique based on the evaluation of psycho‐physiological reactions and parameters had proven to be highly suitable for determining emotional consumer response. The aim of the present study was to assess the intersensory effects of color and scent via OEA. The experiment was designed in a way that matched combinations of color and fragrance were compared with apparently mismatched combinations in transparent gels. A special apparatus was constructed for presentation of the various stimuli to the volunteers. Furthermore, the order of stimuli presentation was varied according to a prime‐probe concept. Data analysis was carried out with multivariate statistics, which allowed identification of characteristic discriminant functions for thevarious experimental conditions and interpretation of their practical meaning in a straightforward way. In summary, we found that OEA could be successfully applied to such weak stimuli as color and scent and there was a good differentiation of matched and mismatched combinations with respect to their activation and emotional effect on volunteers. A very subtle separation of stimuli was achieved, which allows deep insight into the mutual interdependency of color and scent.
Hospitalization because of diabetes and bereavement: a national cohort study of parents who lost a child
Authors: Olsen J. , Li J. , Precht D. H.
Published: September 2005

Aims  To examine whether parents who lost a child have an increased risk of hospitalization because of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  We identified all parents who lost a child in Denmark from 1980 to 1996 (stress exposed), and compared them with parents randomly selected from all other parents in the country at that time without such a bereavement. Fifteen non‐bereaved families were matched to each bereaved family for family size and the age of the children. First hospitalizations for Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes were monitored in these two groups up to 18 years after the bereavement. There were 21 062 parents in the bereaved cohort and 293 745 parents in the non‐bereaved cohort. The study was based upon linkage of several national registers, and first‐time hospitalization with diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2) was the end point.

Results  Five hundred and fifty‐one cases were hospitalized because of Type 1 diabetes and 1569 cases because of Type 2 diabetes. There was a 29% higher risk of hospitalization because of Type 1 diabetes [95% CI −5 to 75%; corresponding to a relative risk (RR) of 1.29; 95% CI 0.95–1.75] and a 44% higher risk of hospitalization because of Type 2 diabetes (95% CI 21–71%; corresponding to an RR of 1.44; 95% CI 1.21–1.71) in the bereaved cohort. The high risk of hospitalization because of Type 2 diabetes following bereavement was only statistically significant for mothers.

Conclusions  Psychological stress may be a contributing cause of, or have prognostic importance for, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but a statistically significant association was only seen for Type 2 diabetes.
Psychosocial problems and barriers to improved diabetes management: results of the Cross‐National Diabetes Attitudes, Wishes and Needs (DAWN) Study
Authors: Peyrot M. , Rubin R. R. , Lauritzen T. , Snoek F. J. , Matthews D. R. , Skovlund S. E.
Published: September 2005

Aims  To examine patient‐ and provider‐reported psychosocial problems and barriers to effective self‐care and resources for dealing with those barriers.

Methods  Cross‐sectional study using face‐to‐face or telephone interviews with diabetic patients and health‐care providers in 13 countries in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. Participants were randomly selected adults (n = 5104) with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and providers (n = 3827), including primary care physicians, diabetes specialist physicians and nurses.

Results  Regimen adherence was poor, especially for diet and exercise; provider estimates of patient self‐care were lower than patient reports for all behaviours. Diabetes‐related worries were common among patients, and providers generally recognized these worries. Many patients (41%) had poor psychological well‐being. Providers reported that most patients had psychological problems that affected diabetes self‐care, yet providers often reported they did not have the resources to manage these problems, and few patients (10%) reported receiving psychological treatment.

Conclusions  Psychosocial problems appear to be common among diabetic patients worldwide. Addressing these problems may improve diabetes outcomes, but providers often lack critical resources for doing so, particularly skill, time and adequate referral sources.
Sources of evidence for systematic reviews of interventions in diabetes
Authors: Royle P. L. , Bain L. , Waugh N. R.
Published: September 2005

Aims  To analyse the effect on systematic reviews in diabetes interventions of including only trials that are indexed in medline, and to assess the impact of adding trials from other databases and the grey literature.

Methods  All systematic reviews of diabetes interventions which included a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials, and were published since 1996, were selected. The impact on the meta‐analysis of including only those trials indexed in medline, and the effect of then adding trials from other sources, was assessed. Where possible this was measured quantitatively, by redoing the meta‐analysis, otherwise a qualitative estimate was made.

Results  Forty‐four systematic reviews met our inclusion criteria. There were 120 articles reporting trial data which were not indexed in medline. These came from 52% of the reviews. In 34% of the reviews, basing a meta‐analysis on a search of only medline would miss trials that could affect the result. Sources of non‐medline data which had the biggest effect on the meta‐analyses were journal articles from central and embase (mainly in Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolism) and unpublished data (mainly from industry). The exceptions were journal articles on herbal medicine, mostly indexed in Chinese language databases.

Conclusions  A search of only the medline database is insufficient for systematic reviews of diabetes, because in about 34% of reviews the missed trials could affect the results of the meta‐analysis. It is recommended that central (on the Cochrane Library) also be searched. Scanning meeting abstracts, and seeking unpublished data are also recommended if the intervention has only recently been introduced.
Inequalities in glycaemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes in primary care
Authors: Bebb C. , Kendrick D. , Stewart J. , Coupland C. , Madeley R. , Brown K. , Burden R. , Sturrock N.
Published: September 2005

Aims  To quantify relationships between patient and practice factors and glycaemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  A cross‐sectional study involving 1534 patients with Type 2 diabetes from 42 general practices in Nottingham, UK was undertaken. Patient characteristics were assessed by a clinical interview and case note review and practice characteristics by a questionnaire. The outcome measure was serum HbA1c concentration measured at entry to the study. Random effects linear regression was used to model patient and practice factors associated with glycaemic control.

Results  In multivariable regression analysis, HbA1c increased with increasing body mass index (BMI) [change in HbA1c for one unit increase in BMI: 0.03%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01, 0.04], and was higher in those using oral medication (mean difference 0.75%, 95% CI 0.59, 0.92) or insulin compared with diet (mean difference 1.36%, 95% CI 1.10, 1.62). There was a dose–response relationship between HbA1c and increasing time since diagnosis. HbA1c was negatively associated with age (change per year −0.01%, 95% CI −0.02, −0.004). Patients registered at the most deprived practices had higher HbA1c values than those in the least deprived practices (mean difference 0.42%, 95% CI 0.14, 0.71), as did those in practices where annual reviews were carried out by the nurse alone (mean difference 0.24%, 95% CI 0.04, 0.44).

Conclusions  Several patient and practice factors are related to glycaemic control. Poorer glycaemic control was associated with practice level deprivation and nurses undertaking annual reviews alone. Further research is required to explore outcomes of annual reviews undertaken by nurses alone. Greater resources may be needed by primary care teams working in deprived areas to address inequalities in diabetic control.