bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balance in Single-Limb Stance in Patients with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Ageberg Eva , Roberts David , Holmström Eva , Fridén Thomas
Published: July 2005

Background

It has been shown previously that an anterior cruciate ligament injury may affect postural control, measured by balance in single-limb stance. To our knowledge, no studies have reported the influence of measures of impairment on postural control after such an injury.

Purpose

To assess the influence of knee laxity, proprioception, and muscle strength on balance in single-limb stance and to study the correlation between balance in single-limb stance and subjective estimation of extremity function.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

A total of 36 patients with a unilateral, nonoperated, nonacute anterior cruciate ligament injury were examined with regard to anterior knee laxity, proprioception, muscle strength, and stabilometry (amplitude and average speed of the center of pressure movements). Subjective estimation of extremity function was measured on a visual analog scale.

Results

The multiple regression analysis showed that high knee laxity values were associated with high amplitude values and low average speed. Poor proprioception and high muscle strength values were associated with low average speed among the women only. Low amplitude values correlated with better subjective function.

Conclusion

Anterior knee laxity, proprioception, and muscle strength seem to play a role in maintaining balance in single-limb stance. Patients with low amplitude values in stabilometry were those with better subjective function.
Making Sense of Illness: The Experiences of Users of Complementary Medicine
Authors: Cartwright Tina , Torr Rebecca
Published: July 2005

The present study investigated the experiences of users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) using a qualitative approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 frequent users and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Results indicated that the patient-practitioner relationship and explanatory frameworks provided by CAM were perceived as important components of the therapeutic process, irrespective of treatment efficacy. CAM served a variety of functions beyond the explicit relief of symptoms by increasing energy and relaxation, facilitating coping and enhancing self/other awareness. It is therefore important that these wider effects are taken into account when evaluating complementary medicine in order to reflect patients’ experiences accurately.
Relation of exaggerated cytokine responses of CF airway epithelial cells to PAO1 adherence
Authors: Kube Dianne M , Fletcher David , Davis Pamela B
Published: July 2005

In many model systems, cystic fibrosis (CF) phenotype airway epithelial cells in culture respond to P. aeruginosa with greater interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-6 secretion than matched controls. In order to test whether this excess inflammatory response results from the reported increased adherence of P. aeruginosa to the CF cells, we compared the inflammatory response of matched pairs of CF and non CF airway epithelial cell lines to the binding of GFP-PAO1, a strain of pseudomonas labeled with green fluorescent protein. There was no clear relation between GFP-PAO1 binding and cytokine production in response to PAO1. Treatment with exogenous aGM1 resulted in greater GFP-PAO1 binding to the normal phenotype compared to CF phenotype cells, but cytokine production remained greater from the CF cell lines. When cells were treated with neuraminidase, PAO1 adherence was equalized between CF and nonCF phenotype cell lines, but IL-8 production in response to inflammatory stimuli was still greater in CF phenotype cells. The polarized cell lines 16HBEo-Sense (normal phenotype) and Antisense (CF phenotype) cells were used to test the effect of disrupting tight junctions, which allows access of PAO1 to basolateral binding sites in both cell lines. IL-8 production increased from CF, but not normal, cells. These data indicate that increased bacterial binding to CF phenotype cells cannot by itself account for excess cytokine production in CF airway epithelial cells, encourage investigation of alternative hypotheses, and signal caution for therapeutic strategies proposed for CF that include disruption of tight junctions in the face of pseudomonas infection.
Spatial variation in the management and outcomes of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Vanasse Alain , Niyonsenga Théophile , Courteau Josiane , Grégoire Jean-Pierre , Hemiari Abbas , Loslier Julie , Bénié Goze
Published: July 2005

Background

Regional disparities in medical care and outcomes with patients suffering from an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have been reported and raise the need to a better understanding of links between treatment, care and outcomes. Little is known about the relationship and its spatial variability between invasive cardiac procedure (ICP), hospital death (HD), length of stay (LoS) and early hospital readmission (EHR). The objectives were to describe and compare the regional rates of ICP, HD, EHR, and the average LoS after an ACS in 2000 in the province of Quebec. We also assessed whether there was a relationship between ICP and HD, LoS, and EHR, and if the relationships varied spatially.

Methods

Using secondary data from a provincial hospital register, a population-based retrospective cohort of 24,544 patients hospitalized in Quebec (Canada) for an ACS in 2000 was built. ACS was defined as myocardial infarction (ICD-9: 410) or unstable angina (ICD-9: 411). ICP was defined as the presence of angiography, angioplasty or aortocoronary bypass (CCA: 480–483, 489), HD as all death cause at index hospitalization, LoS as the number of days between admission and discharge from the index hospitalization, and EHR as hospital readmission for a coronary heart disease ≤30 days after discharge from hospital. The EHR was evaluated on survivors at discharge.

Results

ICP rate was 43.7% varying from 29.4% to 51.6% according to regions. HD rate was 6.9% (range: 3.3–8.2%), average LoS was 11.5 days (range: 7.5–14.4; median LoS: 8 days) and EHR rate was 8.3% (range: 4.7–14.2%). ICP was positively associated with LoS and negatively with HD and EHR; the relationship between ICP and LoS varied spatially. An increased distance to a specialized cardiology center was associated with a decreased likelihood of ICP, a decrease in LoS, but an increased likelihood of EHR.

Conclusion

The main results of this study are the regional variability of the outcomes even after accounting for age, gender, ICP and distance to a cardiology center; the significant relationships between ICP and HD, LoS and EHR, and the spatial variability in the relationships between ICP and LoS.
Hospitalization for pertussis: profiles and case costs by age
Authors: O'Brien Judith A , Caro J Jaime
Published: July 2005

Background

Pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory illness, affects people of all ages and can have serious clinical consequences. It has been reported that from 1997–2000, 20% of all pertussis cases required hospitalization in the US. This analysis examined demographics, case fatality rate, resource use and costs of hospital care related to pertussis by age.

Methods

ICD-9 codes (033.0, 033.9) were used to identify cases of pertussis in hospital discharge databases from roughly 1,000 US hospitals in 4 states (California, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts). Data from 1996–1999 were examined by age group. Separate analyses were done for infants (<1 year) and children (1–11 years); however, adolescent and adult cases were combined into one group (12+ years), due to the small number of cases. Databases were used to determine demographics, health service utilization and care costs. Cost estimates include accommodations, ancillary and physician services, reported in 2002 US$.

Results

Of the 2,518 cases identified, 90% were infants. The inpatient case fatality rate was <1%. Of survivors, 99% were discharged home (6% with home health care); 1% required further sub-acute inpatient care. For the 2,266 infants, the mean LOS was 6 days at a cost of $9,586 per stay. Children (n = 191) had a mean LOS of 3.7 and cost of $4,729; adolescents/adults (n = 61, mean age 40 years) stayed on average 3.4 days with a cost of $5,683 per hospitalization.

Conclusion

Infants are responsible for the bulk of hospitalizations and generate higher inpatient costs. Costly hospital care occurs, however, in patients with pertussis at all ages.
Microarray comparative genomic hybridization detection of chromosomal imbalances in uterine cervix carcinoma
Authors: Hidalgo Alfredo , Baudis Michael , Petersen Iver , Arreola Hugo , Piña Patricia , Vázquez-Ortiz Guelaguetza , Hernández Dulce , González José , Lazos Minerva , López Ricardo , Pérez Carlos , García José , Vázquez Karla , Alatorre Brenda , Salcedo Mauricio
Published: July 2005

Background

Chromosomal Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH) has been applied to all stages of cervical carcinoma progression, defining a specific pattern of chromosomal imbalances in this tumor. However, given its limited spatial resolution, chromosomal CGH has offered only general information regarding the possible genetic targets of DNA copy number changes.

Methods

In order to further define specific DNA copy number changes in cervical cancer, we analyzed 20 cervical samples (3 pre-malignant lesions, 10 invasive tumors, and 7 cell lines), using the GenoSensor microarray CGH system to define particular genetic targets that suffer copy number changes.

Results

The most common DNA gains detected by array CGH in the invasive samples were located at the RBP1-RBP2 (3q21-q22) genes, the sub-telomeric clone C84C11/T3 (5ptel), D5S23 (5p15.2) and the DAB2 gene (5p13) in 58.8% of the samples. The most common losses were found at the FHIT gene (3p14.2) in 47% of the samples, followed by deletions at D8S504 (8p23.3), CTDP1-SHGC- 145820 (18qtel), KIT (4q11-q12), D1S427-FAF1 (1p32.3), D9S325 (9qtel), EIF4E (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E, 4q24), RB1 (13q14), and DXS7132 (Xq12) present in 5/17 (29.4%) of the samples.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the presence of a specific pattern of chromosomal imbalances in cervical carcinoma and define specific targets that are suffering DNA copy number changes in this neoplasm.
Variations in rates of nosocomial infection among Canadian neonatal intensive care units may be practice-related
Authors: Aziz Khalid , McMillan Douglas D , Andrews Wayne , Pendray Margaret , Qiu Zhenguo , Karuri Stella , Lee Shoo K ,   The Canadian Neonatal Network
Published: July 2005

Background

Nosocomial infection (NI), particularly with positive blood or cerebrospinal fluid bacterial cultures, is a major cause of morbidity in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Rates of NI appear to vary substantially between NICUs. The aim of this study was to determine risk factors for NI, as well as the risk-adjusted variations in NI rates among Canadian NICUs.

Methods

From January 1996 to October 1997, data on demographics, intervention, illness severity and NI rates were submitted from 17 Canadian NICUs. Infants admitted at <4 days of age were included. NI was defined as a positive blood or cerebrospinal fluid culture after > 48 hrs in hospital.

Results

765 (23.5%) of 3253 infants <1500 g and 328 (2.5%) of 13228 infants ≥1500 g developed at least one episode of NI. Over 95% of episodes were due to nosocomial bacteremia. Major morbidity was more common amongst those with NI versus those without. Mortality was more strongly associated with NI versus those without for infants ≥1500 g, but not for infants <1500 g. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that for infants <1500 g, risk factors for NI included gestation <29 weeks, outborn status, increased acuity on day 1, mechanical ventilation and parenteral nutrition. When NICUs were compared for babies <1500 g, the odds ratios for NI ranged from 0.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.1 to 0.4) to 8.6 (95% CI 4.1 to 18.2) when compared to a reference site. This trend persisted after adjustment for risk factors, and was also found in larger babies.

Conclusion

Rates of nosocomial infection in Canadian NICUs vary considerably, even after adjustment for known risk factors. The implication is that this variation is due to differences in clinical practices and therefore may be amenable to interventions that alter practice.
The Herdecke questionnaire on quality of life (HLQ): Validation of factorial structure and development of a short form within a naturopathy treated in-patient collective
Authors: Ostermann Thomas , Büssing Arndt , Beer Andre-Michael , Matthiessen Peter F
Published: July 2005

Background

Quality of life (QoL) of patients has become a central evaluation parameter that also acts as an aid for decisions related to treatment strategies particularly for patients with chronic illnesses. In Germany, one of the newer instruments attempting to measure distinct QoL aspects is the "Herdecke Questionnaire for Quality of Life" (HLQ). In this study, we aimed to validate the HLQ with respect to its factorial structure, and to develop a short form. The validation has been carried out in relation to other questionnaires including the SF-36 Health Survey, the Mood-Scale Bf-S, the Giessen Physical Complaints Questionnaire GBB-24 and McGill's Pain Perception Scale SES.

Methods

Data for this study derived from a model project on the treatment of patients using naturopathy methods in Blankenstein Hospital, Hattingen. In total, 2,461 patients between the ages of 16 and 92 years (mean age: 58.0 ± 13.4 years) were included in this study. Most of the patients (62%) suffered from rheumatic diseases. Factorial validation of the HLQ, it's reliability and external consistency analysis and the development of a short form were carried out using the SPSS software.

Results

Structural analysis of the HLQ-items pointed to a 6-factor model. The internal consistency of both the long and the short version is excellent (Cronbach's α is 0.935 for the HLQ-L and 0.862 for the HLQ-S). The highest reliability in the HLQ-L was obtained for the "Initiative Power and Interest" scale, the lowest for the 2-item scales "Digestive Well-Being" and the "Physical Complaints". However, the scales found by factor analysis herein were only in part congruent with the original 5-scale model which was approved a multitrait analysis approach. The new instrument shows good correlations with several scales of other relevant QoL instruments. The scales "Initiative Power and Interest", "Social Interaction", "Mental Balance", "Motility", "Physical Complaints", "Digestive Well-Being" sufficiently differentiate the diagnostic groups, particularly between the patients suffering on connective tissue and soft tissue disorders from those with metabolic and nutritional disorders or hypersensitivity reactions.

Conclusion

Both the factorial validation and the development of a consistent short-form of the HLQ are important steps forward for researchers in the field of QoL who wish to use the HLQ as a reliable and valid instrument. The results indicate that the HLQ is a unique QoL-instrument that can be used for both in-patient and out-patient-treatment. However, to improve to profile of the HLQ, there is still the need for strengthening the Questionnaire in the dimensions of physical well-being. This is the subject of a separate ongoing study.
Public beliefs about treatment and outcome of mental disorders: a comparison of Australia and Japan
Authors: Jorm Anthony F , Nakane Yoshibumi , Christensen Helen , Yoshioka Kumiko , Griffiths Kathleen M , Wata Yuji
Published: July 2005

Background

Surveys of the public in a number of countries have shown poor recognition of mental disorders and beliefs about treatment that often diverge from those of health professionals. This lack of mental health literacy can limit the optimal use of treatment services. Australia and Japan are countries with very different mental health care systems, with Japan emphasising hospital care and Australia more oriented to community care. Japan is also more collectivist and Australia more individualist in values. These differences might influence recognition of disorders and beliefs about treatment in the two countries.

Methods

Surveys of the public were carried out in each country using as similar a methodology as feasible. In both countries, household interviews were carried out concerning beliefs in relation to one of four case vignettes, describing either depression, depression with suicidal thoughts, early schizophrenia or chronic schizophrenia. In Australia, the survey involved a national sample of 3998 adults aged 18 years or over. In Japan, the survey involved 2000 adults aged between 20 and 69 from 25 regional sites spread across the country.

Results

The Japanese public were found to be more reluctant to use psychiatric labels, particularly for the depression cases. The Japanese were also more reluctant to discuss mental disorders with others outside the family. They had a strong belief in counsellors, but not in GPs. They generally believe in the benefits of treatment, but are not optimistic about full recovery. By contrast, Australians used psychiatric labels more often, particularly "depression". They were also more positive about the benefits of seeking professional help, but had a strong preference for lifestyle interventions and tended to be negative about some psychiatric medications. Australians were positive about both counsellors and GPs. Psychiatric hospitalization and ECT were seen negatively in both countries.

Conclusion

There are some major differences between Australia and Japan in recognition of disorders and beliefs about treatment. Some of these may relate to the different health care systems, but the increasing openness about mental health in Australia is also likely to be an explanatory factor.
Anti-proteinase 3 antibodies (c-ANCA) prime CD14-dependent leukocyte activation
Authors: Hattar Katja , van Bürck Sandra , Bickenbach Annette , Grandel Ulrich , Maus Ulrich , Lohmeyer Jürgen , Csernok Elena , Hartung Thomas , Seeger Werner , Grimminger Friedrich , Sibelius Ulf
Published: July 2005

In Wegener's granulomatosis (WG), a pathogenetic role has been proposed for circulating anti-neutrophil-cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) targeting proteinase 3 (PR3). Disease activation in WG appears to be triggered by bacterial infections. In the present study, we characterized the effect of anti-PR3 antibodies on in vitro activation of isolated monocytes and neutrophils by the bacterial cell-wall components lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA). Although sole incubation of monocytes and neutrophils with monoclonal anti-PR3 antibodies induced the release of minor quantities of the chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8), preincubation with anti-PR3 antibodies, but not with isotype-matched control immunogloblin G (IgG), resulted in a markedly enhanced IL-8 liberation upon LPS challenge. The priming response was evident after 2 h of preincubation with anti-PR3 and peaked after 6 h. The anti-PR3-related priming was also observed for tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and IL-6 synthesis. Comparable priming occurred when leukocytes were preincubated with ANCA-IgG derived from WG serum but not with normal IgG. The priming effect of the anti-PR3 antibody pretreatment was reproduced for LTA challenge of monocytes and neutrophils but not for leukocyte stimulation with TNF-α. Flow cytometric analysis revealed an increase in monocyte and neutrophil membrane CD14 expression during the anti-PR3 priming. We conclude that cytoplasmic ANCA specifically prime CD14-dependent monocytes and neutrophils for activation. The resulting enhanced responsiveness to bacterial pathogens may contribute to the development and maintenance of inflammatory lesions during active WG.
Leukotriene B4 mediates p47phox phosphorylation and membrane translocation in polyunsaturated fatty acid-stimulated neutrophils
Authors: Serezani Carlos H C , Aronoff David M , Jancar Sonia , Peters-Golden Marc
Published: July 2005

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) are involved in many inflammatory and physiological conditions. The role of arachidonic acid (AA) and linoleic acid (LA) in promoting the assembly of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunits is well known, but the involvement of LTB4 and other 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway metabolites of AA in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production by PUFA-stimulated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) has not been investigated. We examined this question by determining H2O2 production as well as phosphorylation and membrane translocation of the p47phox subunit of NADPH oxidase. Elicited peritoneal PMNs from rats and from 5-LO-deficient or wild-type mice were pretreated with or without inhibitors of LT biosynthesis and antagonists of the receptors for LTB4 and cysteinyl LTs for 20 min before stimulation with AA (at 5 and 20 μM) or LA (at 20 μM). PUFAs elicited H2O2 production in a dose-dependent manner, and pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of LT synthesis decreased H2O2 production by ∼40% when compared with untreated controls. LTB4 was the moiety responsible for H2O2 production, as revealed by studies using receptor antagonists and its exogenous addition. LTB4 itself also promoted p47phox phosphorylation and translocation. These results identify a heretofore unrecognized role for activation of 5-LO and subsequent production of LTB4 in stimulation of PMN NADPH oxidase activation by PUFAs.
On real-time control and process monitoring of wastewater treatment plants: real-time process monitoring
Authors: Wade M. J. , Sánchez A. , Katebi M. R.
Published: July 2005

This paper reports on the design, implementation and real-time operation of advanced process monitoring techniques for wastewater treatment plants. The paper presents the development of a software platform and its implementation in a full-scale wastewater treatment plant. The software platform allows the real-time execution of advanced process monitoring techniques that are used for fault and process upset detection and identification. The statistical methods are part of a supervisory control level that allows for integration of the different facets of process monitoring and control, including fault detection, knowledge extraction and controller action. Results obtained by the real-time execution of such algorithms are presented.
A neural software sensor for online prediction of coagulant dosage in a drinking water treatment plant
Authors: Lamrini B. , Benhammou A. , Le Lann M.-V. , Karama A.
Published: July 2005

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been applied to an increasing number of real-world problems of considerable complexity. Considered good pattern recognition engines, they offer ideal solutions to a variety of problems such as prediction and modelling where the industrial processes are highly complex. The present paper reports on the elaboration and the validation of a ‘software sensor’ using ANNs for online prediction of optimal coagulant dosage from raw water quality measurements, in a drinking water treatment plant. In the first part, the main parameters affecting the coagulant dosage are determined using a Principal Component Analysis. A brief description of this statistical study is given and experimental results are included. The second part of this work is dedicated to the development of a neural software sensor and the generation of an uncertainty indicator attached to the prediction. Bootstrap sampling has been used to generate a confidence interval for the model outputs. The ANN model was developed using the Levenberg-Marquardt method in combination with ‘weight decay’ regularization to avoid over-fitting. A linear regression model has also been developed for comparison with the ANN model. Experimental and performance results obtained from real data are presented and discussed.
A software platform for real-time control and monitoring of a wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Sánchez A. , Wade M. , Katebi M. R.
Published: July 2005

This paper reports on the design, implementation and real-time operation of advanced process control and monitoring techniques for wastewater treatment plants. The paper presents the development of a software platform and its implementation in a full-scale wastewater treatment plant. The software platform allows the real-time execution of advanced process control techniques as model predictive control, subspace identification, and statistical process analysis using principal component analysis methods. Results obtained by the real-time execution of such algorithms are also presented.
The interpretation of online measurements of optical fibre diameter
Authors: Law Susan H. , Barton Geoffrey W. , Phan Thanh N. , Barton Matthew J.
Published: July 2005

The requirements for optical fibre diameter measurement for feedback control during drawing and for quality assurance in precision applications are different. The signal from a 1000-Hz scanning laser gauge measuring 125-mm nominal diameter fibre was examined to see if this instrument could service both applications. Static measurements showed that sensor noise was largely unaffected by the measurement position of the fibre, the sampling rate or external electrical/acoustic noise. In each case the sensor noise was essentially normally distributed with a standard deviation of 0.13 mm. Offline fibre measurements (using a video grey-scale analyser) showed significant diameter variations on a 40-mm length scale. The distribution of this diameter variation was consistent with that from the online laser gauge. It was concluded that the current default option (scanning at 1000 Hz and using window-based averaging to give an effective sampling rate of 8 Hz) is adequate if the objective is to ensure a nominal average diameter on a long-length scale via feedback control. However, such an approach will prove inadequate for quality assurance in emerging precision applications. The latter objective will require a combination of a faster scanning rate with more sophisticated signal filtering to provide a means for monitoring short-scale diameter variations while simultaneously providing a signal for use by a controller more responsive than simple feedback. Such monitoring is also a necessary prerequisite for quantifying the extent of flow instabilities in the vicinity of the drawing fibre as a function of furnace design.
Application of unnormalized quasi-velocities integrals
Authors: Herman Przemyslaw
Published: July 2005

This paper presents considerations concerning usefulness of integrals of unnormalized quasi-velocities. These quasi-velocities described by Jain and Rodriguez (IEEE Transactions on Robotics and Automation 11, 571 -84, 1995) are obtained as a result of diagonalization of the manipulator mass matrix in velocity space. Equations of motion are expressed in terms of generalized coordinates and an unnormalized velocity vector. Both quasi-velocities and their integrals can serve as a tool for improvement of manipulator dynamics. It is shown that sometimes there exist integrals of these quasi-velocities in explicit analytical form for a 2 d.o.f. manipulator. In other cases one can calculate integrals of unnormalized quasi-velocities using numerical methods. The numerically procedure was used for 3 d.o.f. three-dimensional DDArm robot.
Comparative toxic potency ranking of chlorophenols
Authors: Pepelko William E , Gaylor David W , Mukerjee Debdas
Published: July 2005

Chlorophenols are prevalent in all media of the environment. The most common environmental source of pentachlorophenol (PCP) and other chlorinated phenols are via the lumber industry as a wood preservative and as a pesticide in plant production. The US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) contaminant candidate list (CCL) includes a majority of these compounds as unregulated contaminants. Except for pentachlorophenol, there is a lack of human or animal data base which can be used for human health risk assessment. The specific aim of this study is to develop a rationale to use in vivo nonmammalian, in vitro mammalian and nonmammalian, micro-organism toxicity data base, structural activity, mechanistic and toxicokinetic data bases for developing a relative toxic potency ranking scheme of chlorophenols. Although the toxic potency of chlorophenols was found to increase with the number of chlorines, the potency decreases if the chlorines are attached in the ortho position of the molecules. Based on the LOAELs and mammalian in vitro data, the relative potency of chlorophenols determined to be best estimated by the ratios of log Kow to the 0.55 power. The relationship of the toxic potency derived from such an approach is largely presumptive.
Acute ®Confidor (imidacloprid-N-methyl pyrrolidone) insecticides intoxication with mimicking cholinergic syndrome
Authors: Hung Yao-Min , Meier Kathryn H
Published: July 2005

Confidor, consisting of two major components - imidacloprid and the solvent N-methyl pyrrolidone is a relatively new class of insecticide. Reports of acute overdose or adverse effects after human exposure have been few, despite wide usage. We report a case of acute confidor intoxication with mimicking cholinergic syndrome, the patient ultimately dying of nosocominal pneumonia. Patients ingesting large volumes of imidacloprid-N-methyl pyrrolidone insecticide formulations require close observation and supportive treatment.
Use of QEESI© questionnaire for a screening study in Japan
Authors: Hojo Sachiko , Yoshino Hiroshi , Kumano Hiroaki , Kakuta Kazuhiko , Miyata Mikio , Sakabe Kou , Matsui Takako , Ikeda Koichi , Nozaki Atsuo , Ishikawa Satoshi
Published: July 2005

QEESI© (Miller and Prihoda, 1999a: Toxicology and Industrial Health, 15, 370) was applied to 498 subjects, recruited from the general population of Miyagi prefecture, Japan, who had not been diagnosed previously as having multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) or sick building syndrome. Seventeen (3.8%) of 440 subjects who returned valid completed questionnaires were classified as having symptoms ‘very suggestive’ of MCS using the four-classification system of Miller and Prihoda (1999a). We conducted detailed telephone interviews with these 17 individuals. All were visiting local hospitals on an outpatient basis with diagnoses other than MCS and had either current or previous presumed chemical exposure. Therefore, we recommended they undergo a medical check by MCS medical experts and indoor air quality assessment.

Seven subjects participated in both the medical check and indoor air quality monitoring, six subjects participated in indoor air quality monitoring only and four subjects participated in neither. The seven subjects who participated in both the medical check and monitoring were diagnosed as having MCS by the above expert physicians. In nine houses of 13 subjects who participated in indoor environmental quality (IEQ) survey, acetaldehyde (9/9), formaldehyde (8/9), total volatile compounds (TVOCs) (6/9) and paradichlorobenzene (3/9) levels were above the respective guideline values for indoor air concentrations, outlined by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan and were presumed to act as factors contributing to the subjects’ hypersensitivity and onset or development of symptoms.

These results suggested that there might still be a population of patients not properly diagnosed as having MCS by clinicians in Japan. Therefore, we verified the efficacy of QEESI (Japanese version) for screening of MCS patients.

The results of indoor air quality analysis suggested the manifestation and deterioration of MCS in Japan might be precipitated by indoor air pollutants, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, volatile compounds (VOCs) and paradichlorobenzene.
Cytotoxicity of organotin compounds in different cultured cell lines
Authors: Hoth Annett , Johannisson Reiner , Ali Sarwar Syed , Schulze Johannes , Siegers Claus-Peter
Published: July 2005

Organotin as monobutyltin (MBT), dibutyltin (DBT) and tributyltin (TBT) compounds are used as fungicides and anti-fouling compounds; small amounts are added to the new European Euro bills. Little is known about the toxicological profile of these compounds uptake and metabolism. We, therefore, studied the cytotoxicity of these agents in different cell lines, i.e., liver HepG2, renal LLCMK2 and ocular CEC cells. As a measure of cell growth and death, the neutral red assay and the release of LDH into the medium were used. IC50 values for growth inhibition by TBT were calculated as 160 nM in LLC-MK2, 150 nM in HepG2 and 180 nM in CEC cells; for DBT the corresponding values were higher, i.e., 500 nM DBT for LLC-MK2 cells, 300 nM for HepG2 cells and 220 nM for CE cells. ED50 values for LDH release indicating disturbances of the outer cell membrane was > 250 nM for TBT and > 350 nM for DBT in all cells. MBT was not toxic in concentrations up to 500 nM. Electron microscopic studies of cells treated with 300 nM tributyltin indicated severe mitochondrial damage with much less effect seen in other cell structures. We conclude that no differences exist between different cell lines that may serve as examples of tissues relevant for organotin exposure (eye), metabolism (liver) and specific metalloid damage (kidney). Growth inhibition was affected at organotin concentrations between 150 and 500 nM. This concentration is approximately 70-200 fold higher than values estimated in environmental samples.
Circulating levels of interleukin-18 in asbestos-exposed workers
Authors: Gangemi Sebastiano , Rapisarda Venerando , Minciullo Paola Lucia , Di Pasquale Giuseppe , Lombardo Giuseppe , Valentino Matteo , Fenga Concettina
Published: July 2005

Occupational exposure to asbestos has been associated with the development of pulmonary diseases through a persistent inflammatory response initiated by reactive oxygen species and the subsequent release of proinflammatory mediators such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-a. Recently, IL-18, a pleiotropic proinflammatory cytokine and potent inducer of gene expression and synthesis of INF-g, TNF-a and IL-1 in immunocompetent cells, has been described. IL-18 serum concentrations were measured in 20 asbestos-exposed workers and in a group of 20 healthy donors. The workers underwent physical examination, pulmonary function tests and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). IL-18 levels were assayed in peripheral blood using the immunoenzymatic method with a commercial kit. The pulmonary function tests revealed a restrictive ventilatory deficit in nine (45%) cases and an obstructive ventilatory deficit in five (25%). The remaining six (30%) workers exhibited normal spirometric values. HRCT findings were: bilateral pleural plaques in 8 (40%) workers and bilateral parenchymal fibrosis in 12 (60%), with mean scores of 2.559 / 1.89. The exposed workers displayed significantly higher IL-18 concentrations than controls and those with parenchymal fibrosis displayed significantly higher values than workers with pleural plaques (P=0.001). In subjects with parenchymal fibrosis, HRCT scores significantly correlated with serum levels of IL-18 (P=0.001). Although the mechanisms leading to IL-18 release in asbestosis are unknown, the present preliminary results underscore the potential role of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of pulmonary toxicity.
The comparison of the efficacy of scoring systems in organophosphate poisoning
Authors: Bilgin Tugsan Egemen , Camdeviren Handan , Yapici Davud , Doruk Nurcan , Altunkan Ali Aydm , Altunkan Zeliha , Oral Ugur
Published: July 2005

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II scoring systems for organophosphate poisoning (OPP) in an intensive care unit (ICU). The following data were collected on all consecutive patients who were admitted to the ICU between June 1999 and December 2004. Demographic data, GCS, APACHE II and SAPS II scoring systems were recorded. Predicted mortality was calculated using original regression formulas. Standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was computed with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The sensitivity and specificity for each scoring system were evaluated by calculating the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves. The actual mortality in OPP was 21.9%. Predicted mortality by all systems was not significantly different from actual mortality [SMR and 95% CI for GCS: 1.00 (0.65-1.35), APACHE II: 0.87 (0.54-1.03), SAPS II: 1.40 (0.98-1.82)]. The area under the ROC curve for APACHE II is largest, but there is no statistically significant difference when compared with SAPS II and GCS (GCS 0.9009 / 0.059, APACHE II 0.9299 / 0.045 and SAPS II 0.8919 / 0.057). In our ICU group of patients, in predicting the mortality rates in OPP, the three scoring systems, which are GCS, APACHE II and SAPS II, had similar impacts; however, GCS system has superiority over the other systems in being easy to perform, and not requiring complex physiologic parameters and laboratory methods.
In vitro cytotoxicity testing of airborne formaldehyde collected in serum-free culture media
Authors: Bakand S , Hayes A , Winder C , Khalil C , Markovic B
Published: July 2005

The purpose of this study was to identify a suitable sampling model for on-site toxicity assessment of soluble air contaminants such as formaldehyde, a well known industrial and indoor air contaminant. The in vitro cytotoxicity of formaldehyde, the selected model for soluble air contaminants, was studied using the MTS (tetrazolium salt) assay in two carcinoma cell lines, A549 epithelial lung and HepG2 hepatocarcinoma, and in skin fibroblasts. The cytotoxic effects of airborne formaldehyde were evaluated using test atmospheres in concentrations below 10 ppm (12.3 mg/m3), generated by a dynamic diffusion method and bubbled (0.3 L/min) through serum-free culture media for one or four hours. Human cells were treated with formaldehyde air samples, and cell viability was determined after four hours incubation. In parallel, the concentration of airborne formaldehyde was monitored, using the 3500 NIOSH method. Cell viability of the HepG2 cells exposed to formaldehyde air samples (8.75 ppm-4 h) was reduced to less than 50% (31.69/1.24%). The HepG2 cell lines were found to be more sensitive (IC50=103.799/23.55 mg/L) to formaldehyde than both A549 cell lines (IC50=198.369/9.54 mg/L) and skin fibroblasts (IC50=196.689/36.73 mg/L) (PB/0.01). An average of 96.8% was determined for collection efficiency of formaldehyde in serum-free culture media. The results of this study suggest that absorption of soluble air contaminants, such as formaldehyde, in serum-free culture media can be used as a suitable sampling model for on-site toxicity assessments.
DNA damage as an early biomarker of effect in human health
Authors: Mussali-Galante P , Avila-Costa MR , Piñón-Zarate G , Martínez-Levy G , Rodríguez-Lara V , Rojas-Lemus M , Avila-Casado MC , Fortoul TI
Published: July 2005

In the last few decades the need for new approaches to assess DNA damage has been increasing due to the implications that different insults on genetic material may have on human health. In this context, the identification of how chemical agents with different mechanisms of action (i.e., antineoplastic drugs) damage DNA provides a good model to investigate some cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the basis of genetic toxicology. The nasal epithelium is the first barrier with which environmental pollutants interact, and for this reason this epithelium can be useful as a sentinel in order to assess the interactions between the environment and the living organisms. Taking these phenomena into account and using a simple, sensitive and rapid method such as the single cell gel electrophoresis, we could obtain information and an initial approach on the DNA status. This assay in combination with other techniques that provide more information about other molecular parameters could give us a better view of the biological status of the living cell.
Photo-induced DNA damage and photocytotoxicity of retinyl palmitate and its photodecomposition products
Authors: Yan Jian , Xia Qingsu , Cherng Shu-Hui , Wamer Wayne G , Howard Paul C , Yu Hongtao , Fu Peter P
Published: July 2005

Retinyl palmitate (RP) is an ester of retinol (vitamin A) and the predominant form of retinol found endogenously in the skin. We have previously reported that photoirradiation of RP with UVA light resulted in the formation of anhydroretinol (AR), 5,6-epoxyretinyl palmitate (5,6-epoxy-RP) and other photodecomposition products. While AR was formed through an ionic photodissociation mechanism, 5,6-epoxy-RP was formed through a light-mediated, free radical-initiated chain reaction. In the current study, the phototoxicity of RP, AR and 5,6-epoxy-RP in human skin Jurkat T-cells with and without light irradiation was determined using a fluorescein diacetate assay. Under similar conditions, the Comet assay was used to assess damage to cellular DNA. Nuclear DNA was not significantly damaged when the cells were irradiated by UVA plus visible light in the absence of a retinoid; however, when the cells were illuminated with UVA plus visible light in the presence of either RP, 5,6-epoxy-RP or AR (50, 100, 150 and 200 mM), DNA fragmentation was observed. Cell death was observed for retinoid concentrations of 100 mM or higher. When treated with 150 mM of RP, 5,6-epoxy-RP or AR, cell death was 52, 33 and 52%, respectively. These results suggest that RP and its two photodecomposition products, AR and 5,6-epoxy-RP, induce DNA damage and cytotoxicity when irradiated with UVA plus visible light. We also determined that photoirradiation of RP, AR and 5,6-epoxy-RP causes single strand breaks in supercoiled FX174 plasmid DNA. Using a constant dose of UVA light (50 J/cm2), the level of DNA cleavage was highest in the presence of AR, followed by 5,6-epoxy-RP, then RP. The induced DNA strand cleavage was inhibited by NaN3. These results suggest that photoirradiation of RP, 5,6-epoxy-RP and AR with UVA light generates free radicals that initiate DNA strand cleavage.
Ambient air particulate dry deposition, concentrations and ionic species study at Taichung Harbor near Taiwan Strait
Authors: Wu Yuh-Shen , Fang Guor-Cheng , Chen Jhy-Cherng , Rau Jui-Yeh , Huang Shih-Han
Published: July 2005

The characterization for watersoluble species of dry deposition flux, total suspended particulate (TSP), fine particle (particle matter with aerodynamical diameter 2.5 mm, PM2.5), coarse particle (particle matter with aerodynamical diameter 2.5-10 mm, PM2.5 10), and dry deposition velocity were studied at Taichung Harbor sampling sites of central Taiwan during February-August 2004. The average downward dry deposition flux, TSP, PM10 concentrations obtained in Taichung Harbor were about 0.51, 0.3, and 3.4 times more than those values obtained by traffic sampling site in central Taiwan. Average dry deposition velocity for mass, Cl, NO3, SO42, Na, NH4, Mg2, and Ca2were 9, 3.8, 0.3, 0.25, 0.46, 0.18, 0.51 and 2.28 cm respectively at the harbor sampling site. In general, average particle mass dry deposition velocity was about 1.8 times more than those values obtained at the traffic sampling site. Chemical analysis, also indicated that three major soluble inorganic species concentrations (sulfate-nitrate-ammonium) accounted for 59.8% and 80.6% of the PM2.5 and PM2.5 10 mass concentrations, respectively at the Taichung Harbor sampling site.
IgE and FcεRI Regulation
Authors: MacGLASHAN DONALD
Published: July 2005

Abstract:A central feature of allergic reactions is the aggregation of the high‐affinity IgE receptor, FcεRI, to initiate a change in the behavior of the cell expressing the receptor. It is now clear that a number of cell types can express this receptor, which broadens the biology that revolves around IgE antibody. It is also quite clear that the presence of monomeric IgE antibody alters the expression of FcεRI. There remains considerable uncertainty about the importance of independent regulation of the FcεRIβ subunit or its splice variant βT, in terms of regulating both expression and function of FcεRI. There is also only primitive understanding of the role of various polymorphisms in the subunit genes on the atopic phenotype. There are, however, many efforts being made to resolve these issues and to discover other factors that regulate expression of this receptor. Of particular interest for understanding the variation in expression in atopy among patients, the role of this receptor on non‐mast cell/basophils will be important to elucidate.
Differential Regulation of the IL‐10 Gene in Th1 and Th2 T Cells
Authors: KANG KYU‐HO , IM SIN‐HYEOG
Published: July 2005

Abstract:Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), an immunoregulatory cytokine, modulates the function of various immune and nonimmune cells, yet little information is available on the molecular mechanism of transcriptional regulation at the chromatin level. During T cell differentiation from naive T cells into Th1 and Th2 cells, the expression of IL‐10 in Th1 cells slowly disappears, whereas Th2 cells produce more IL‐10. We examined the chromatin structural changes associated withIL‐10gene transcription by naive and differentiated murine Th1 and Th2 cells. Naive T cells lack DNase I hypersensitivity (HS) sites in the vicinity of theIL‐10gene, whereas differentiated T cells display a strong 3′ constitutive HS site as well as several inducible sites. In committed Th1 cells, the mechanism ofIL‐10gene silencing is associated with a closed chromatin structure, the lack of an HS site at the promoter region, and the development of repressive histone modification near theIL‐10promoter and introns 3 and 4. We confirm that the majority of HS sites coincide with conserved noncoding sequences (CNSs) identified by comparative genomic sequence alignment between human and mouse genomes. Potential transcription factor binding sites were located by comparing CNSs with the TRANSFAC database. Predictedin vivobinding of specific factors on the CNS locus were confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Our results suggest that the combination of HS site and comparative genomic approaches allows identification of regulatory elements involved in differentialIL‐10gene expression between Th1 and Th2 cells during T cell differentiation.
What Makes an Autoantigen an Autoantigen?
Authors: WU CHIH‐TE , GERSHWIN M ERIC , DAVIS PAUL A.
Published: July 2005

Abstract: Multiple classes of proteins are modified to tailor them for specific physiological roles. The nature of these posttranslational modifications of proteins, as well as the relationships between them including those of the immune system proteins themselves, and immune system responses are reviewed. Aspects of protein posttranslational modification and their relationship to the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases and primary biliary cirrhosis are highlighted.
Cross‐Reactivity of IgM and IgG Anticardiolipin Antibodies with Oxidized‐Low Density Lipoproteins
Authors: DAMOISEAUX J , JEYASEKHARAN A D , THEUNISSEN R , COHEN TERVAERT J W
Published: July 2005

Abstract: Anticardiolipin antibodies (aCLAs) and antibodies to oxidized‐low density lipoproteins (oxLDL) are associated with two distinct diseases: the antiphospholipid syndrome and atherosclerosis. Because both diseases may be apparent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), it is important to establish the relationship between these two types of antibodies. In the present study, we examined whether sera containing IgM and/or IgG aCLAs also react with LDL that has been oxidized by conjugation with malondialdehyde (MDA‐LDL) or by incubation with copper ions (Cu‐LDL). Results revealed a clear correlation between IgM aCLAs and IgM anti‐MDA‐LDL antibodies, and a weak correlation between IgG aCLAs and IgG anti‐Cu‐LDL antibodies. Cross‐reactivity between both antibodies seemed to be limited. Because aCLAs are heterogeneous, only a minor subset of these antibodies may cross‐react with oxLDL. Therefore, identification of both antibodies may be relevant for determination of the prognosis of accelerated atherosclerosis in SLE patients.