bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Characterization of
Campylobacter jejuni
Lipooligosaccharide Outer Cores Associated with Guillain-Barré and Miller Fisher Syndromes
Authors: Godschalk Peggy C. R. , Kuijf Mark L. , Li Jianjun , St. Michael Frank , Ang C. Wim , Jacobs Bart C. , Karwaski Marie-France , Brochu Denis , Moterassed Ali , Endtz Hubert P. , van Belkum Alex , Gilbert Michel
Published: February 2007

Molecular mimicry between lipooligosaccharides (LOS) of
Campylobacter jejuni
and gangliosides in peripheral nerves plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of
C. jejuni
-related Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). We have analyzed the LOS outer core structures of 26
C. jejuni
strains associated with GBS and its variant, Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS), by capillary electrophoresis coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Sixteen out of 22 (73%) GBS-associated and all 4 (100%) MFS-associated strains expressed LOS with ganglioside mimics. GM1a was the most prevalent ganglioside mimic in GBS-associated strains (10/22, 45%), and in eight of these strains, GM1a was found in combination with GD1a mimics. All seven strains isolated from patients with ophthalmoplegia (GBS or MFS) expressed disialylated (GD3 or GD1c) mimics. Three out of 22 GBS-associated strains (14%) did not express sialylated ganglioside mimics because their LOS locus lacked the genes necessary for sialylation. Three other strains (14%) did not express ganglioside mimics because of frameshift mutations in either the
cstII
sialyltransferase gene or the
cgtB
galactosyltransferase gene. It is not possible to determine if these mutations were already present during
C. jejuni
infection. This is the first report in which mass spectrometry combined with DNA sequence data were used to infer the LOS outer core structures of a large number of neuropathy-associated
C. jejuni
strains. We conclude that molecular mimicry between gangliosides and
C. jejuni
LOS is the presumable pathogenic mechanism in most cases of
C. jejuni
-related GBS. However, our findings suggest that in some cases, other mechanisms may play a role. Further examination of the disease etiology in these patients is mandatory.
Contributions of Histamine, Prostanoids, and Neurokinins to Edema Elicited by Edema Toxin fromBacillus anthracis
Authors: Tessier Jeffrey , Green Candace , Padgett Diana , Zhao Wei , Schwartz Lawrence , Hughes Molly , Hewlett Erik
Published: February 2007

Bacillus anthracisedema toxin (ET), composed of protective antigen and an adenylate cyclase edema factor (EF), elicits edema in host tissues, but the target cells and events leading from EF-mediated cyclic-AMP production to edema are unknown. We evaluated the direct effect of ET on several cell types in vitro and tested the possibility that mediators of vascular leakage, such as histamine, contribute to edema in rabbits given intradermal ET. ET increased the transendothelial electrical resistance of endothelial monolayers, a response that is mechanistically inconsistent with the in vivo vascular leakage induced by ET. Screening of several drugs by intradermal treatment prior to toxin injection demonstrated reduced ET-induced vascular leakage with a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor (indomethacin), agents that interfere with histamine (pyrilamine or cromolyn), or a neurokinin antagonist (spantide). Systemic administration of indomethacin or celecoxib (cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors), pyrilamine, aprepitant (a neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist), or indomethacin with pyrilamine significantly reduced vascular leakage associated with ET. Although the effects of pyrilamine, cromolyn, or aprepitant on ET-induced vascular leakage suggest a possible role for mast cells (MC) and sensory neurons in ET-induced edema, ET did not elicit degranulation of human skin MC or substance P release from NT2N cells in vitro. Our results indicate that ET, acting indirectly or directly on a target yet to be identified, stimulates the production/release of multiple inflammatory mediators, specifically neurokinins, prostanoids, and histamine. These mediators, individually and through complex interactions, increase vascular permeability, and interventions directed at these mediators may benefit hosts infected withB. anthracis.
Tendon and ligament injuries: the genetic component
Authors: September Alison V , Schwellnus Martin P , Collins Malcolm
Published: February 2007

Tendons and ligaments within the upper and lower limbs are some of the more common sites of musculoskeletal injuries during physical activity. Several extrinsic and intrinsic factors have been shown to be associated with these injuries. More recently, studies have suggested that there is also, at least in part, a genetic component to the Achilles tendon, rotator cuff and anterior cruciate ligament injuries. However, specific genes have not been suggested to be associated with rotator cuff or anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Sequence variants of the tenascin C (TNC) gene, on the other hand, have been shown to be associated with Achilles tendinopathies and Achilles tendon ruptures, whereas a variant of the collagen V α 1 (COL5A1) gene has also been shown to be associated with Achilles tendinopathies. Both genes encode for important structural components of tendons and ligaments. TheCOL5A1gene encodes for a component of type V collagen, which has an important role in regulating collagen fibre assembly and fibre diameters. TheTNCgene, on the other hand, encodes for TNC, which regulates the tissue’s response to mechanical load. To date, only variants in two genes have been shown to be associated with Achilles tendon injuries. In addition, although specific genes have not been identified, investigators have suggested that there is also a genetic component to both rotator cuff and anterior cruciate ligament injuries. In future, specific genotypes associated with increased risk of injury to specific tendons and ligaments can prevent these injuries by identifying individuals at higher risk.
A new prescription for empirical ethics research in pharmacy: a critical review of the literature: Table 1
Authors: Cooper R J , Bissell P , Wingfield J
Published: February 2007

Empirical ethics research is increasingly valued in bioethics and healthcare more generally, but there remain as yet under-researched areas such as pharmacy, despite the increasingly visible attempts by the profession to embrace additional roles beyond the supply of medicines. A descriptive and critical review of the extant empirical pharmacy ethics literature is provided here. A chronological change from quantitative to qualitative approaches is highlighted in this review, as well as differing theoretical approaches such as cognitive moral development and the four principles of biomedical ethics. Research with pharmacy student cohorts is common, as is representation from American pharmacists. Many examples of ethical problems are identified, as well as commercial and legal influences on ethical understanding and decision making. In this paper, it is argued that as pharmacy seeks to develop additional roles with concomitant ethical responsibilities, a new prescription is needed for empirical ethics research in pharmacy—one that embraces an agenda of systematic research using a plurality of methodological and theoretical approaches to better explore this under-researched discipline.
Effect of Tai Chi on Body Balance: Randomized Controlled Trial in Men with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis
Authors: Maciaszek J. , Osiński W. , Szeklicki R. , Stemplewski R.
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of 18-week Tai Chi training on body balance in dynamic trial among elderly men. The study covered 49 subjects from age 60 to 82.1 years, who had osteopenia or osteoporosis. The subjects were recruited from the community by direct mailings and community efforts to participate in studies. The participants were randomly assigned to either the exercise intervention ( n = 25) or control groups ( n = 24). The Tai Chi group participated in an 18-week exercise class held for 45 min, twice a week. Body balance was assessed using a Computer Posturographic System PE 90 produced by the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine in Warsaw with modified software made in Pro-Med. During the measurement of body balance, the capacity to perform specific tasks was analyzed (deflections in the set scope and direction). In the Tai Chi group, an increase ( p ≤ 0.01) in effectiveness of balance task performance was noted from 80.95% to 84.45% after the training. In the control group, no statistically significant improvement in the level of body balance was found in the same period. Thus, an 18-week period of Tai Chi exercises twice a week for 45 min is beneficial for dynamic balance. It can be important for reducing fall risk factors.
ANOTHER MODEL WITH INTERACTING COMPOSITES
Authors: HORTAÇSU M. , TAŞKIN F.
Published: February 2007

We show that we can construct a model in 3+1 dimensions where it is necessary that composite vector particles take place in physical processes as incoming and outgoing particles. Cross-section of the processes in which only the constituent spinors take place goes to zero. While the spinor–spinor scattering goes to zero, the scattering of composites gives nontrivial results.
TARGET SPACE DUALITY AND MODULI STABILIZATION IN STRING GAS COSMOLOGY
Authors: CHATRABHUTI AUTTAKIT
Published: February 2007

Motivated by string gas cosmology, we investigate the stability of moduli fields coming from compactifications of string gas on torus with background flux. It was previously claimed that moduli are stabilized only at a single fixed-point in moduli space, a self-dual point of T-duality with vanishing flux. Here, we show that there exist other stable fixed-points on moduli space with nonvanishing flux. We also discuss the more general target space dualities associated with these fixed-points.
UNIVERSAL OPEN-STRING SINGLET INTERACTION
Authors: BURIKHAM PIYABUT
Published: February 2007

We argue the existence of a universal open-string interaction induced by open-string singlet exchange from the universality of gravity diagram involving open strings. At the tree level, the interaction is induced by stringy massive excitations of spin-1 and spin-2 at the leading order. The origin of this interaction is purely stringy in nature with the massless contributions canceling each other at the tree level and therefore has no field theory correspondence. The effective dimension-8 interactions at low energies for both spin-1 and spin-2 are given for the four-fermion processes. The spin-2 piece of the interaction to a pair of vector bosons is twice as strong as when it couples to a pair of fermions as a result of the SUSY constraint on the amplitudes and angular momentum decomposition. The massive spin-2 piece of the interaction is separately universal for fermions and vector bosons, in contrast to conventional massive gravity.
Bioenergy and Sustainable Development?
Authors: Sagar Ambuj D. , Kartha Sivan
Published: February 2007

Traditional biomass remains the dominant contributor to the energy supply of a large number of developing countries, where it serves the household energy needs of over a third of humanity in traditional cookstoves or open fires. Efforts to reduce the enormous human health, socioeconomic, and environmental impacts by shifting to cleaner cookstoves and cleaner biomass-derived fuels have had some success, but much more needs to be done, possibly including the expanded use of fossil-derived fuels. Concurrently, biomass is rapidly expanding as a commercial energy source, especially for transport fuels. Bioenergy can positively contribute to climate goals and rural livelihoods; however, if not implemented carefully, it could exacerbate degradation of land, water bodies, and ecosystems; reduce food security; and increase greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. For large-scale commercial biofuels to contribute to sustainable development will require agriculturally sustainable methods and markets that provide enhanced livelihood opportunities and equitable terms of trade. The challenge lies in translating the opportunity into reality.
Structure and genetic mapping of the Cytochrome P450 gene (CYP1A5) in the turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
Authors: Reed K.M. , Mendoza K.M. , Coulombe Jr R.A.
Published: February 2007

Cytochromes P450 (P450) are a superfamily of membrane-bound hemoproteins that oxidize a large number of endogenous and exogenous compounds. The recently cloned P450 gene (CYP1A5) encodes the primary protein responsible for epoxidation of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in the turkey, an animal extremely sensitive to this mycotoxin. Hypersensitivity of turkeys to AFB1 was first demonstrated by association with ‘Turkey X Disease’ which caused widespread deaths of turkeys and other poultry throughout Europe in the 1960s, later shown to be caused by AFB1-contaminated feed. In this study, comparative genomic approaches were used to selectively amplify and sequence the introns and 3′ flanking region of CYP1A5. The structure of the CYP1A5 gene in the turkey is shown to be equivalent to that of the human CYP1A genes with seven exons of 38, 858, 127, 90, 124, 87 and 307 bp, respectively, and six introns. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the 3′ UTR was used to assign CYP1A5 to turkey linkage group M16 (equivalent to chicken chromosome 10). The results of this study provide the framework for identifying allelic variants of this biochemically important P450 gene in poultry.
Etiology of Vocal Cord Paralysis
Authors: Chen Hsin-Chien , Jen Yee-Min , Wang Chih-Hung , Lee Jih-Chin , Lin Yaoh-Shiang
Published: February 2007

Objective: Vocal cord paralysis (VCP) is a sign of a certain underlying disease, a diagnosis which can be attributed to various causes. This study intends to analyze the contemporary etiology of VCP in a tertiary medical center. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of medical records from June 2000 to December 2004 of hospitalized patients with VCP was done to determine the etiology. Results: Two hundred and ninety-one patients with a determined etiology were identified, consisting of 176 males and 115 females. Unilateral VCP was present in 259 patients, while 32 presented with bilateral VCP. The causes were surgical in 40.2%, neoplastic in 29.9%, idiopathic in 10.7%, traumatic in 8%, central in 3.8%, radiation-induced in 3.4%, inflammatory in 2%, cardiovascular in 1.7% and other causes in 0.3% of the cases. Thyroidectomy represented the most common surgery for VCP and was the cause in 57 patients. Lung cancer was responsible for 34 cases and was the most common neoplastic etiology. In males, neoplasm was the most common cause occurring in 63 of 176 males, whereas surgery was most frequent in 59 of 115 females. Conclusion: Surgical trauma, mainly thyroidectomy, is the most common cause of VCP in hospitalized patients. The possibility of a neoplasm must be ruled out before VCP is labeled idiopathic. A benign thyroid tumor could also cause VCP. Besides, radiation-induced cranial nerve paralysis in head and neck cancer may play a significant role.
Postinfarct Cortical Plasticity and Behavioral Recovery
Authors: Nudo Randolph J.
Published: February 2007

Plasticity phenomena in the cerebral cortex after ischemic injury have been documented repeatedly over the past 2 decades both in animal models and in human stroke survivors. This review highlights many of the major neuroanatomic and neurophysiological changes that characterize poststroke plasticity in experimental animals. Spared regions adjacent to the infarct and far removed from the infarct undergo functional alterations that are modified by behavioral experience. Recent evidence is also reviewed, demonstrating that long-range intracortical pathways can be rerouted to completely novel territories. The implications of this new finding for understanding the brain’s capacity for recovery are discussed.
Blood Genomics in Human Stroke
Authors: Baird Alison E.
Published: February 2007

Advances in microarray technology and the sequencing of the human genome are opening up new possibilities for applying genomic information in clinical medicine, using information about structural polymorphisms in DNA and changes in gene expression as measured by mRNA. Gene expression profiling studies in cancer samples have led to the identification of clinical signatures that are already being applied in some centers. In stroke, it may be possible to use peripheral blood as a source of mRNA to study gene expression. After stroke, there is a selective recruitment and migration of white blood cells to the ischemic focus in the brain. This appears to involve all white cell types and is believed to impact significantly on tissue and clinical outcome through the exacerbation of ischemic injury, particularly after reperfusion, on the one hand, and conversely contributing to tissue remodeling and repair days to weeks after stroke. The first results from clinical studies in ischemic stroke suggest that a gene expression signature can be demonstrated from peripheral white blood cells and that this represents at least a partial adaptation to the altered cerebral microenvironment. Further studies are indicated to see whether these methods may lead to new management approaches for stroke.
A Novel Immune-Based Therapy for Stroke Induces Neuroprotection and Supports Neurogenesis
Authors: Ziv Yaniv , Finkelstein Arseny , Geffen Yona , Kipnis Jonathan , Smirnov Igor , Shpilman Suzi , Vertkin Irena , Kimron Michal , Lange Aya , Hecht Torsten , Reyman Klaus G. , Marder Jonathan B. , Schwartz Michal , Yoles Eti
Published: February 2007

The ability of the central nervous system to cope with stressful conditions was shown to be dependent on proper T-cell–mediated immune response. Because the therapeutic window for neuroprotection after acute insults such as stroke is relatively narrow, we searched for a procedure that would allow the relevant T cells to be recruited rapidly. Permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced in adult rats. To facilitate a rapid poststroke T cell activity, rats were treated with poly-YE using different regimens. Control and poly-YE–treated rats were assessed for functional recovery using neurological severity score and Morris water maze. Neuroprotection, neurogenesis, growth factor expression, and microglial phenotype were assessed using histological and immunofluorescence methods. Administration of poly-YE as late as 24 hours after middle cerebral artery occlusion yielded a beneficial effect manifested by better neurological performance, reduced neuronal loss, attenuation of behavioral deficits, and increased hippocampal and cortical neurogenesis. This compound affected the subacute phase by modulating microglial response and by increasing local production of insulin-like growth factor-I, known to be a key player in neuronal survival and neurogenesis. The relative wide therapeutic window, coupled with its efficacy in attenuating further degeneration and enhancing restoration, makes poly-YE a promising immune-based candidate for stroke therapy.
Ca
2+
Signals and Neuronal Death in Brain Ischemia
Authors: Bano Daniele , Nicotera Pierluigi
Published: February 2007

Although Ca
2+
signals are necessary for cell communication and survival, abnormal cellular Ca
2+
load can trigger different cell death programs. Ca
2+
mediates cell death by activating proteases (ie, calpains), by reinforcing signals leading to caspase activation or by triggering other catabolic processes mediated by lipases and nucleases. Failure in the clearance of excitatory amino acid is a critical determinant of neuronal loss in the ischemic brain. Glutamate activates glutamate-ionotropic receptors at synaptic and extra-synaptic sites, causing prolonged neuronal depolarization and triggering deregulation of cellular ion homeostasis, mainly intracellular calcium and sodium. The mechanisms leading to the sustained calcium deregulation in excitotoxic conditions are only in part elucidated. Recently, we have shown that calpains mediate the inhibition of calcium efflux in primary dissociated neurons challenged with excitotoxic glutamate concentrations. Calpains cleave the sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) and inhibit its capability to remove calcium accumulated as a consequence of the excitotoxic stimulus. Our findings highlight the link between calcium-dependent proteases, calcium overload and neuronal degeneration after an excitotoxic insult.
Mobilization of CD34-Positive Bone Marrow–Derived Cells After Coronary Stent Implantation
Authors: Inoue Teruo , Sata Masataka , Hikichi Yutaka , Sohma Ryoichi , Fukuda Daiju , Uchida Toshihiko , Shimizu Minoru , Komoda Hiroshi , Node Koichi
Published: February 2007

Background—

Recently, accumulating evidence has indicated that bone marrow–derived stem cells are capable of differentiating into vascular cells. It has been hypothesized that the inflammatory response after vascular injury triggers the mobilization of endothelial and smooth muscle progenitor cells from bone marrow.

Methods and Results—

We measured circulating CD34-positive mononuclear cells, activation of integrin Mac-1 on the surface of neutrophils, and plasma granulocyte-colony stimulating factor levels in 40 patients undergoing coronary stenting. After bare-metal stenting, CD34-positive cells increased, reaching a maximum on day 7 after stenting. The maximum change compared with baseline before stenting was more striking in patients with restenosis than without restenosis (332±108% versus 148±49%;
P
<0.05). In contrast, CD34-positive cells decreased after sirolimus-eluting stenting (72±21% on day 7). The change in CD34-positive cells on day 7 relative to baseline was closely correlated with that in activated Mac-1 at 48 hours (
R
=0.52,
P
<0.01) and that in granulocyte-colony stimulating factor levels at 24 hours (
R
=0.42,
P
<0.05). Cell culture assay on day 7 showed that mononuclear cells differentiated into CD31-positive endothelium-like cells after bare-metal stenting. In patients with restenosis, mononuclear cells differentiating into α-smooth muscle actin–positive smooth muscle–like cells also were observed. Implantation of sirolimus-eluting stents suppressed both types of differentiation.

Conclusions—

Stent implantation may induce differentiation of bone marrow cells into endothelial or smooth muscle cells. Endothelial cells may participate in reendothelialization, a protective reaction against vascular injury, whereas smooth muscle cells may participate in neointimal thickening and restenosis. Sirolimus-eluting stents appear to inhibit the mobilization and differentiation of bone marrow cells.
On Time and the Origin of the Theory of Evolution
Authors:   Hancock
Published: February 2007

This paper presents a perspective upon how the confluence of three differing faces of time may have served as fundamental stimulus for Charles Darwin's formulation of the theory of evolution. The first temporal perspective is represented in Lyell's exposition of 'deep' geological time. This provided Darwin the temporal canvas upon which to conceive the possibility of the prolonged process of change upon which the conceptual basis of the theory of evolution is founded. The second face of time is epitomized in the linguistic treatment of temporality by the Polynesian culture, in whose environs Darwin found himself studying these respective processes of change. The linguistic and conceptual emphasis of this culture on the immediacy of a continual 'specious' present in perception and action provides evident examples of naming transformations of objects and entities well within the observational lifetime of a single individual. The juxtaposition of these conflicting, enormously 'deep' and exceptionally 'shallow' perspectives on time permits the step of insight on the process of change and consistency that became the bedrock of evolution itself. The final element of time, crucial to this whole process of understanding, was the necessary interval of duration for this synthesis to emerge. As a gentleman-scholar aboard the Beagle, Darwin possessed this boon of contemplative time in which to recognize and reconcile these vastly different yet eventually, deeply compatible views of time. Darwin's studious and painstaking development of evolution theory stands in stark contrast to the equivalent, but much more sudden brisance of understanding on behalf of Alfred Wallace whose own insight I shall argue is an exemplar of another form of time's influence.
The Implications of Relativistic Time Dilation on the Nature of Physical Time: A Non-Newtonian Interpretation of Special Relativity
Authors: McGee Ben Wright
Published: February 2007

The Theory of Relativity, in both the Special and General cases, possesses profound inferences concerning the nature of time as a physical component of universal structure, and not as either an abstract concept or a universal entropic progression as is commonly perceived. While the time-slowing observations of what is known as Relativistic "time dilation" are well documented, the temporal interpretations of such dilation effects were critically affected by a Newtonian view of universally invariant time. Consequently, the most sophisticated interpretations of time dilation were parasitically molded by archaic views of physical time and have remained essentially unchallenged for a century, inhibiting any attempts to functionally integrate the observations of Relativity with Newtonian Mechanics. By freeing relativistic observations from the limited paradigm of Newtonian temporal concepts, an alternative, robust interpretation of Special Relativity, one acting in concert with the actions of bodies as described by Newtonian Mechanics, is produced and discussed.
Development of a set of activities to evaluate the arm and hand function in children with obstetric brachial plexus lesion
Authors: Boeschoten K H , Folmer K B , van der Lee J H , Nollet F
Published: February 2007

Objective: To develop an observational instrument that can be used to evaluate the quality of arm and hand skills in daily functional activities in children with obstetric brachial plexus lesion (OBPL). A set of functional activities was constructed and standardized, and the intra-observer reliability of the assessment of this set of activities was studied.

Setting: Department of Occupational Therapy and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, VU University Medical Centre.

Subjects: Twenty-six children with OBPL in the age range of 4 -6 years.

Interventions: The children were asked to perform 47 bimanual activities, which were recorded on videotape.

Main measures: The videotapes were scored twice by the same occupational therapist.

Results: The percentage of agreement in scoring ‘hand-use’, ‘speed’ and ‘assistance’ was over 80% for a substantial number of activities, indicating a strong agreement. However, in scoring ‘deviations in movements and body posture’ the percentage of agreement was insufficient in most activities.

Conclusions: This set of activities has good potential for assessment of the performance of functional activities in children with OBPL. This study, however, showed a number of difficulties in observing and scoring the activities that have to be considered when developing a standardized video observation.
On being a university head of department
Authors: Smith Bob
Published: February 2007

This article describes the role of the head of department in chartered and statutory British universities, drawing upon five research studies carried out over the past eight years. It describes how heads are appointed, their main activities, their main problems and how the role compares in chartered and statutory universities. The role is a crucial one for universities and is characterised by complexity and long working hours. Lack of preparedness for, and inadequate induction into, the role is problematic, especially in chartered universities where heads are often elected for relatively short fixed terms. The main problems encountered by heads relate to staffing issues and to being at the interface between the university and the department. Many heads feel inadequately supported either by senior managers or by the university’s non-academic ‘support’ departments.The most significant difference between the role in the two types of university is the different emphases on research.
Relation of Social-Cognitive Factors to Academic Satisfaction in Engineering Students
Authors: Lent Robert W. , Singley Daniel , Sheu Hung-Bin , Schmidt Janet A. , Schmidt Linda C.
Published: February 2007

Lent (2004) posited a model of domain-specific and overall life satisfaction in which social-cognitive variables (self-efficacy, outcome expectations, environmental supports, and perceived goal progress) play key roles. In this study, the authors examined the relation of these variables to academic satisfaction. Participants were 153 engineering students. Results of structural equation modeling analyses indicated that the social-cognitive model fit the data well overall and that each of the predictors, except for outcome expectations, explained unique variation in students’ academic satisfaction. The authors consider the implications of the findings for further research and practice on academic and work satisfaction.
Profile of cytokine gene polymorphisms in Iranian multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Amirzargar A , Khosravi F , Dianat S , Hushmand F , Maryousef P , Foroushani Ar , Lotfi J , Nikbin B
Published: February 2007

Background

Cytokine gene polymorphisms have been extensively studied in association with different diseases. The role of cytokine gene polymorphisms in multiple sclerosis (MS), as a chronic immune-mediated neurodegenerative disease, has been previously reported.

Materials and methods

DNA samples were collected from 44 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and 140 unrelated healthy subjects. All participants in this study were matched for ethnicity. Cytokine gene SNPs were determined using the PCR-SSP method.

Results and discussion

We found no significant differences between MS patients and controls in most of the studied cytokine genes. Remarkable results were obtained for IL-2 GG —330 genotype (P = 0.06), IL-6 C —174 allele (P = 0.06), CG and GG genotypes (P < 0.001), and GG (P = 0.02) and CG (P < 0.001) haplotypes, and TNF-α A —238 allele (P < 0.001), GG (P = 0.003) and GA (P < 0.001) haplotypes. These results suggest that polymorphic variations of these pro-inflammatory cytokines play an important role in susceptibility to MS. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 253–255. http://msj.sagepub.com
A three-dimensional approach for understanding the spectrum of idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating disorders: importance of the ‘attack-related severity’ axis
Authors: Fukazawa T , Kikuchi S
Published: February 2007

Understanding the spectrum of idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating disorders (IIDD) of the central nervous system is an important issue for accurate diagnosis and advancing research on the pathogenesis as well as treatment strategies, but the nosology and the classification of the IIDD remains confusing. Until now, we have tried to apply each disorder within the spectrum to an adequate co-ordinate on a two-dimensional plane. One axis is clinical course and the other is lesion distribution. We reviewed some disorders of the IIDD spectrum, and our recent findings on the fulminant nature of each attack and the expansion of each lesion, which we called attack-related severity in Japanese multiple sclerosis (MS). From our findings and the literature, attack-related severity appears to be a third important factor, in addition to lesion distribution and clinical course. Introduction of the third axis produces a three-dimensional space for a better understanding of the heterogeneous characteristics of IIDD and ‘MS’ syndrome, and can advance treatment strategies for these disorders. As severe attacks seem to be relatively common in Asians but rare in the west, ethnic-related heterogeneity should be considered in understanding the spectrum of IIDD, and there is an urgent need to develop a common general concept of the spectrum, especially for MS. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 199–207. http://msj.sagepub.com
Brain magnetic resonance imaging findings in relapsing neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Cabrera-Gómez José A , Quevedo-Sotolongo L , González-Quevedo A , Lima S , Real-González Y , Cristófol-Corominas M , Romero-García K , Ugarte-Sánchez C , Jordán-González J , Nuez Je González De La , Lahera J García , Tellez R , Pedroso-Ibañez I , Roca R Rodríguez , Cabrera-Núñez Ay
Published: February 2007

Background

Some studies showed abnormalities in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of relapsing neuromyelitis optica (R-NMO) from 12 to 46%. These abnormalities are described as compatible/non-compatible with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective

To describe the abnormal brain MRI lesions in R-NMO with imaging studies conducted with more sensitive white matter change techniques.

Methods

Thirty patients with R-NMO were selected. All MRI brain studies were performed with a 1.5-T Siemens MRI system according to the Standardized MR Imaging Protocol for Multiple Sclerosis from the Consortium of MS Centers Consensus Guidelines.

Results

Brain MRI images were evaluated in 29 R-NMO cases because in one case the MRI images were not appropriate for the study. Of these 29 brain MRI studies, 19 cases (65.5%) had at least one or more lesions (1–57) and 10 were negative (34.4%). Brain MRI findings in 19 cases were characterized in T2/fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) by the presence of subcortical/deep white matter lesions in 16 (84.2%) cases (1–50), most of them < 3 mm and without juxtacortical localization. Periventricular lesions were observed in 13 (68.4%) cases, but morphologically they were not oval, ovoid or perpendicularly orientated. Infratentorial lesions, all >3 mm, were observed in 4 (21.05%) cases without cerebellar involvement. T1 studies demonstrated absence of hypointense regions. Optic nerve enhancement was observed in 6/19 patients (31.5%). None of the brain MRI abnormalities observed were compatible with Barkhof et al. criteria of MS.

Conclusions

This study, based on a Cuban patient population, with long duration of disease, good sample size and detailed characterization by MRI, demonstrated the brain MRI pattern of R-NMO patients, which is different from MS. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 186–192. http://msj.sagepub.com
Ginkgo biloba for the improvement of cognitive performance in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lovera J. , Bagert B. , Smoot K. , Morris C.D. , Frank R. , Bogardus K. , Wild K. , Oken B. , Whitham R. , Bourdette D.
Published: February 2007

Objectives To determine if Ginkgo biloba (GB) improves the cognitive performance of subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of GB, 120 mg twice a day or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were: the long delay free recall from the California Verbal Learning Test-II; the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test; the Controlled Oral Word Association Test; the Symbol Digit Modalities Test; Useful Field of View Test; and the color-word interference condition from the Stroop Color and Word Test.

Results On completion, the GB group (n=20) was 4.5 seconds (95% confidence interval (CI) (7.6, 0.9), P=0.015) faster than the placebo group (n=18) on the color-word interference condition of the Stroop test. Subjects who were more impaired at baseline experienced more improvement with GB (treatment*baseline interaction, F=8.10, P=0.008). We found no differences on the other neuropsychological tests. Subjects on GB reported fewer cognitive difficulties in the Retrospective Memory Scale of the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire than subjects on placebo (1.5 points, 95% CI (2.6, 0.3), P=0.016). No serious drug related side-effects occurred and GB did not alter platelet function assays.

Conclusion Overall, GB did not show a statistically significant improvement in cognitive function. A treatment effect trend, limited to the Stroop test, suggests that GB may have an effect on cognitive domains assessed by this test, such as susceptibility to interference and mental flexibility. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 376-385. http://msj.sagepub.com
Correlations between Epstein-Barr virus antibody levels and risk factors for multiple sclerosis in healthy individuals
Authors: Nielsen T.R. , Pedersen M. , Rostgaard K. , Frisch M. , Hjalgrim H.
Published: February 2007

Background Female gender, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DR2, tobacco smoking and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are established risk factors for multiple sclerosis (MS). Their possible interaction however, has been sparsely studied.

Objectives To investigate possible associations between EBV antibody levels and a range of other recognized MS risk factors.

Design, setting and study population Cross-sectional study undertaken in Denmark based on 517 healthy individuals selected from the Danish population.

Methods We measured change in mean log (anti-Epstein-Barr viral capsid antigen (VCA) immune globulin G) using linear regression.

Results Anti-Epstein-Barr VCA immune globulin G levels were positively correlated with female gender and HLA DR2. Furthermore, current smoking and cumulative tobacco consumption were positively associated with EBV antibody levels.

Conclusion The association between Epstein-Barr VCA antibody levels and non-viral MS risk factors support the view that EBV is critically involved in the etiology of MS. These non-viral MS risk factors may be linked with MS risk through EBV-specific immune responses. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 420-423. http://msj.sagepub.com
A notice of the occurrence of native arsenic in Cornwall ; of bismuthinite at Shap, Westmorland ; and of smaltite and niccolite at Coniston, Lancashire
Authors: Russell Arthur
Published: February 2007

Native arsenic has hitherto ranked as a distinctly doubtful British species. The following notes contain, however, an account of its occurrence at two localities in Cornwall. John Garbyin his ‘Catalogue of Minerals found in Cornwall’ states that native arsenic had been found in Dolcoath mine, Camborne, associated with ores of cobalt. Greg and Lettsom repeat this statement with a doubtful qualification. J. H. Collins also mentions Cooks Kitchen mine, Illogan, as another doubtful locality. The occurrence as an associate of smaltite and native bismuth, minerals that have on several occasions been found in Dolcoath, is by no means unlikely, although, as far as I have been able to ascertain, no specimens of native arsenic from any of these reported localities have been preserved.
Spatial and sex-specific dissection of the Anopheles gambiae midgut transcriptome
Authors: Warr Emma , Aguilar Ruth , Dong Yuemei , Mahairaki Vassiliki , Dimopoulos George
Published: February 2007

Background

The midgut of hematophagous insects, such as disease transmitting mosquitoes, carries out a variety of essential functions that mostly relate to blood feeding. The midgut of the female malaria vector mosquito Anopheles gambiae is a major site of interactions between the parasite and the vector. Distinct compartments and cell types of the midgut tissue carry out specific functions and vector borne pathogens interact and infect different parts of the midgut.

Results

A microarray based global gene expression approach was used to compare transcript abundance in the four major female midgut compartments (cardia, anterior, anterior part of posterior and posterior part of posterior midgut) and between the male and female Anopheles gambiae midgut. Major differences between the female and male midgut gene expression relate to digestive processes and immunity. Each compartment has a distinct gene function profile with the posterior midgut expressing digestive enzyme genes and the cardia and anterior midgut expressing high levels of antimicrobial peptide and other immune gene transcripts. Interestingly, the cardia expressed several known anti-Plasmodium factors. A parallel peptidomic analysis of the cardia identified known mosquito antimicrobial peptides as well as several putative short secreted peptides that are likely to represent novel antimicrobial factors.

Conclusion

The A. gambiae sex specific midgut and female midgut compartment specific transcriptomes correlates with their known functions. The significantly greater functional diversity of the female midgut relate to hematophagy that is associated with digestion and nutrition uptake as well as exposes it to a variety of pathogens, and promotes growth of its endogenous microbial flora. The strikingly high proportion of immunity related factors in the cardia tissue most likely serves the function to increase sterility of ingested sugar and blood. A detailed characterization of the functional specificities of the female mosquito midgut and its various compartments can greatly contribute to our understanding of its role in disease transmission and generate the necessary tools for the development of malaria control strategies.
Treatment of social phobia: randomised trial of
internet-delivered cognitive-behavioural therapy with telephone
support
Authors: Carlbring Per , Gunnarsdóttir Magdalena , Hedensjö Linda , Andersson Gerhard , Ekselius Lisa , Furmark Tomas
Published: February 2007

Background

Although effective therapies for social phobia exist, many individuals
refrain from seeking treatment owing to the embarrassment associated with
help-seeking. Internet-based cognitive-behavioural self-help can be an
alternative, but adherence is a problem.

Aims

To evaluate a 9-week programme of internet-based therapy designed to
increase treatment adherence by the addition of short weekly telephone
calls, nine in all, with a total duration of 95 min.

Method

In a randomised controlled trial the effects of internet-based cognitive–
behavioural therapy in the treatment group (n=29) were
compared with a waiting-list control group (n=28).

Results

Compared with the control group the treated participants experienced
greater reductions on measures of general and social anxiety avoidance
and depression. Adherence to treatment was high, with 93% finishing the
complete treatment package. One year later all improvements were
maintained.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence to support the use of internet-based
treatment supplemented by short, weekly telephone calls.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with recurrent
self-harm
Authors: Hallahan Brian , Hibbeln Joseph R. , Davis John M. , Garland Malcolm R.
Published: February 2007

Background

Trials have demonstrated benefits of long-chain omega-3 essential fatty
acid (n-3 EFA) supplementation in a variety of psychiatric disorders.

Aims

To assess the efficacy of n-3 EFAs in improving psychological well-being
in patients with recurrent self-harm.

Method

Patients (n=49) presenting after an act of repeated
self-harm were randomised to receive 1.2 g eicosapentaenoic acid plus 0.9
g decosahexaenoic acid (n=22) or placebo
(n=27) for 12 weeks in addition to standard
psychiatric care. Six psychological domains were measured at baseline and
end point.

Results

At 12 weeks, the n-3 EFA group had significantly greater improvements in
scores for depression, suicidality and daily stresses. Scores for
impulsivity aggression and hostility did not differ.

Conclusions

Supplementation achieved substantial reductions in surrogate markers of
suicidal behaviour and improvements in well-being. Larger studies are
warranted to determine if insufficient dietary intake of n-3 EFAs is a
reversible risk factor for self-harm.
Reducing emotional distress in people caring for patients
receiving specialist palliative care
Authors: Walsh Kiri , Jones Louise , Tookman Adrian , Mason Christina , McLoughlin Joanne , Blizard Robert , King Michael
Published: February 2007

Background

Caring for relatives with advanced cancer may cause psychological and
physical ill health.

Aims

To evaluate the effectiveness of increased support for distressed,
informal carers of patients receiving palliative care.

Method

The sample was composed of 271 informal carers who scored over 5 on the
28-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). The intervention comprised
six weekly visits by a trained advisor. Primary outcome was carer
distress (GHQ-28) at 4-week, 9-week and 12-week follow-up. Secondary
outcomes were carer strain and quality of life, satisfaction with care,
and bereavement outcome.

Results

Scores on the GHQ-28 fell below the threshold of 5/6 in a third of
participants in each trial arm at any follow-up point. Mean scores in the
intervention group were lower at all time points but these differences
were not significant. No difference was observed in secondary outcomes.
Carers receiving the intervention reported qualitative benefit.

Conclusions

The intervention might have been too brief, and ongoing help might have
had accruing benefits. Alternatively, informal carers of patients with
cancer may already receive considerable input and the advisor's help gave
little additional advantage; or caring for a dying relative is extremely
stressful and no amount of support is going to make it much better.
Association between the Polymorphism of CCR5 and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: BALISTRERI CARMELA RITA , GRIMALDI MARIA PAOLA , VASTO SONYA , LISTI FLORINDA , CHIAPPELLI MARTINA , LICASTRO FEDERICO , LIO DOMENICO , CARUSO CALOGERO , CANDORE GIUSEPPINA
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in Western society. The prevalence of AD is greater in women than in men, largely due to longevity and survival differences favoring women. However, some studies suggest that incidence rates may really be increased in women. One possible factor influencing AD incidence in women is the loss of ovarian estrogens production after menopause, which might be involved in AD pathogenesis. Estrogens seem to influence some neuronal functions. Many of these actions appear beneficial (i.e., neuroprotective action against a variety of insults, as oxidative stress, and reduction of β‐amyloid plaques formation). Furthermore, several studies have shown that proinflammatory genotypes seem to significantly contribute to AD risk. In the present study, we evaluated whether the anti‐inflammatory allele of chemokine receptor CCR5 is a component of the genetic protective background versus AD neuronal degeneration. We genotyped for Δ32 (a 32‐bp deletion of the CCR5 gene that causes a frameshift at amino acid 185) in 191 AD patients (133 women and 58 men; age range: 53–98 years; mean age: 74.88 ± 8.44) and 182 controls (98 women and 84 men; age range: 65–93; mean age 73.21 ± 8.24) from northern Italy. No different distribution of the CCRΔ32 deletion in the two cohorts was clearly evident. Statistical analysis by gender stratification, demonstrated no differences in genotype distribution and allelic frequency both in women and in men. Further, studies should focus on identification of proinflammatory genetic variants involved in AD pathogenesis in women.
Anti‐inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effect of a Phytoestrogen Compound on Rat Microglia
Authors: MAROTTA F. , MAO G.S. , LIU T. , CHUI D.H. , LORENZETTI A. , XIAO Y. , MARANDOLA P.
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Ovariectomized Wistar rats received orally 15 mg/kg of a phytoestrogen compound (genistein, daidzein, glycitein, black cohosh, angelica sin., licorice, vitex agnus) for 2 weeks to test its ability to modulate inflammatory microglia response. Microglial proliferation was tested by trypan blue and by absorbance. Serial supernatant sampling was performed for 24 h to check TNF‐α, IL‐β, IL‐6, and TGF‐β. LPS caused a time course increase of all cytokines, with IL‐β and TNF‐α peaking at the 12th hour, whereas IL‐6 and TGF‐β peaked at the 24 h observation. Rats fed with the phytoestrogen displayed a significantly lower level of proinflammatory cytokines and a higher level of TGF‐β, as shown also by Western blot analysis. This finding may offer promise in the field of nutraceutical intervention.