bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary patterns in clinical subtypes of multiple sclerosis: an exploratory study
Authors: Ramsaransing Geeta SM , Mellema Sanne A , De Keyser Jacques
Published: August 2009

Backround

Multiple sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disorder with a wide range in disease course severity. Many factors seem to be implicated in multiple sclerosis disease course, and diet has been suggested to play a role. Because limited data is present in the literature it was investigated whether variations in dietary intake may be related to the severity of the disease course in multiple sclerosis.

Methods

Using a food diary during 14 days, the dietary intake of 23 nutrients and vitamins was measured in patients with primary progressive (n = 21), secondary progressive (n = 32), and benign multiple sclerosis (n = 27) and compared to each other. The intake measured was also compared to the intake of the Dutch population and to the recommended daily allowance.

Results

Compared to the other MS groups, the secondary progressive MS patients had a lower intake of magnesium, calcium and iron. The total group of MS patients had, compared to the Dutch population, a lower intake of folate, magnesium and copper and a lower energy intake. Compared to the daily recommended allowance, the MS patients had a lower than recommended intake of folic acid, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

Conclusion

Magnesium, calcium and iron intake may possibly be related to MS disease progression, and should receive further attention. This is important because no effective neuroprotective treatment for MS patients is available.
Identification of protein functions using a machine-learning approach based on sequence-derived properties
Authors: Lee Bum Ju , Shin Moon Sun , Oh Young Joon , Oh Hae Seok , Ryu Keun Ho
Published: August 2009

Background

Predicting the function of an unknown protein is an essential goal in bioinformatics. Sequence similarity-based approaches are widely used for function prediction; however, they are often inadequate in the absence of similar sequences or when the sequence similarity among known protein sequences is statistically weak. This study aimed to develop an accurate prediction method for identifying protein function, irrespective of sequence and structural similarities.

Results

A highly accurate prediction method capable of identifying protein function, based solely on protein sequence properties, is described. This method analyses and identifies specific features of the protein sequence that are highly correlated with certain protein functions and determines the combination of protein sequence features that best characterises protein function. Thirty-three features that represent subtle differences in local regions and full regions of the protein sequences were introduced. On the basis of 484 features extracted solely from the protein sequence, models were built to predict the functions of 11 different proteins from a broad range of cellular components, molecular functions, and biological processes. The accuracy of protein function prediction using random forests with feature selection ranged from 94.23% to 100%. The local sequence information was found to have a broad range of applicability in predicting protein function.

Conclusion

We present an accurate prediction method using a machine-learning approach based solely on protein sequence properties. The primary contribution of this paper is to propose newPNPRDfeatures representing global and/or local differences in sequences, based on positively and/or negatively charged residues, to assist in predicting protein function. In addition, we identified a compact and useful feature subset for predicting the function of various proteins. Our results indicate that sequence-based classifiers can provide good results among a broad range of proteins, that the proposed features are useful in predicting several functions, and that the combination of our and traditional features may support the creation of a discriminative feature set for specific protein functions.
Diffuse anorectal melanoma; review of the current diagnostic and treatment aspects based on a case report
Authors: Stoidis Christos N , Spyropoulos Basileios G , Misiakos Evangelos P , Fountzilas Christos K , Paraskeva Panorea P , Fotiadis Constantine I
Published: August 2009

Primary anorectal melanoma is a rare and aggressive disease. Patients commonly complain for changes in bowel habits and rectal bleeding, and proctoscopically they mostly appear as non pigmented or lightly pigmented polypoid lesions. Such a lesion should always raise a high index of suspicion in any gastroenterologist or surgeon to prompt surgery, since early radical excision is the only treatment option.

Herein, we report a case of a 57-year-old man with a diffuse anal canal melanoma and give reference to the current diagnostic and treatment options.
Exercise therapy, quality of life, and activities of daily living in patients with Parkinson disease: a small scale quasi-randomised trial
Authors: Yousefi Bahram , Tadibi Vahid , Khoei Ali Fathollahzadeh , Montazeri Ali
Published: August 2009

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a 10-week exercise therapy regimen on activities of daily living (ADL) and perceived health status in patients with Parkinson disease.

Methods

Twenty-four Parkinson's disease patients entered into the study. Participants were allocated into the experimental (n = 12) or control group (n = 12). ADL was assessed using the Short Parkinson Evaluation Scale/Scale for Outcomes in Parkinson Disease (SPES/SCOPA) and perceived health status was measured using the Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life (PDQL) questionnaire. Patients in the experimental group received pharmacological therapy plus a 1-hour exercise therapy session 4 times a week, while patients in the control group received pharmacological therapy only. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison.

Results

The mean age of participants was 59.8 (SD = 3.0) and 58.2 (SD = 3.4) years in the experimental and control groups, respectively. The median Hoehn and Yahr stage was 3.0 for both groups. There were no significant differences in all subscales and overall scores between two groups at baseline. However, after the intervention, except for the emotional functioning (P = 0.27), there were significant differences between the two groups for Parkinson symptoms, systemic symptoms, social functioning, and overall scores of the PDQL (all P values < 0.05), and the ADL (P = 0.01) indicating that quality of life was improved in the experimental group.

Conclusion

The findings from this small scale quasi-randomised trial showed that exercise therapy was effective in improving activities of daily living and perceived health status in patients with Parkinson's disease. Indeed, exercise therapy could be offered to patients with Parkinson disease, considering that it is low in cost and usually has no negative side effects.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN98825027
Implantable Port Devices Are Catheters of Choice for Administration of Chemotherapy in Pediatric Oncology Patients—A Clinical Experience in Pakistan
Authors: Hooda Barkat , Lalani Gulrose , Fadoo Zehra , Billoo Ghaffar
Published: August 2009

Phlebitis and cellulitis are commonly encountered problems in oncology patients receiving chemotherapy through peripherally inserted intravenous catheters. Use of central venous access devices (CVAD) is desirable. We have seen a steady increase in the use of CVADs in our oncology service with frequent use of indwelling ports, particularly during the last 2 years. In this study we have attempted to elucidate advantages of CVAD and compared them to peripheral catheters. This is a retrospective study with chart review of all oncology patients admitted in our oncology service at the Aga Khan University Hospital from March 2003 to March 2005. A survey was also conducted from a randomly selected sample of parents of children with cancer to elicit parental views regarding their choice of a particular catheter. Catheter‐related infections were quite common (over 50%) in patients with peripheral lines, resulting in increased costs and prolonged hospitalization. Externalized CVADs were found difficult to care for, carried a risk of being accidentally pulled out or punctured, and were deemed undesirable for older female patients for cosmetic reasons. We found that the internalized CVADs (portacath) were superior to the externalized or peripheral lines and resulted in better patient and family satisfaction. Use of peripheral lines must be gradually phased out of pediatric oncology practice in Pakistan. Indwelling CVADs have become the standard of care internationally and should be considered for most patients in developing countries whenever resources are available.
Estrogen Receptor α Gene Polymorphism and Breast Cancer
Authors: Siddig Awatif , Mohamed Abdelrahim Osman , Awad Salma , Hassan Ahmed H. , Zilahi Erika , Al‐Haj Mohammed , Bernsen Roos , Adem Abdu
Published: August 2009

Estrogen and estrogen receptors play important roles in the proliferation and development of breast cancer. Several genetic alterations identified in the estrogen receptor α gene (ESR1) are thought to influence the expression or function of this protein, and many have been evaluated for their role in breast cancer predisposition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the C325G single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ESR1 in predisposition to breast cancer. The candidate SNP C325G in ESR1, exon 4 was genotyped in breast cancer patients and in healthy controls that were age and sex matched. Genotyping was performed using both single‐stranded conformational polymorphism (SSCP) and a higher throughput allelic discrimination method using real‐time PCR. Data on clinical features and demographic details were collected. Significant association of breast cancer risk was shown in the subgroup of women 50 years and younger who had the C allele (OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.10–4.72) (P= 0.03). However, the overall susceptibility to breast cancer was not significant, although all estimates were in the direction of a higher risk in women with CC genotypes. This study found significant evidence that polymorphism within the low penetrance ESR1 is associated with breast cancer susceptibility in women of 50 years or younger. There is also an indication that G allele is protective (compared to C allele).
Targeted Intra‐operative Radiotherapy—TARGIT for Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Baum Michael , Vaidya Jayant S.
Published: August 2009

Breast conservation by wide local excision for early breast cancer is now considered safe and should be considered default therapy wherever possible. Unfortunately, this requires access to costly radiotherapy centers. Many women in the developing world or for that matter in wealthy countries with large land masses and small populations do not have access to radiotherapy and are therefore denied the option of breast‐conserving surgery. Whole‐breast radiation by external beam after tumorectomy is predicated on the belief that latent foci of subclinical cancer outside the index quadrant are responsible for local recurrence. We do not think this is the case, as over 90% of these recurrences occur in the index quadrant. In this paper we describe a novel system for intra‐operative radiotherapy using a mobile unit that should, in theory, be able to replace 6 weeks of external beam from a linear accelerator. The technique, TARGIT, is currently undergoing a multinational clinical trial in comparison with conventional external beam. If we can prove at least equivalence in outcome, then breast‐conserving surgery might become available to all women in the developing world and to those living long distances from the nearest radiotherapy center.
Cellular Origin of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Karam Sherif M.
Published: August 2009

Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Although the link between Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric cancer is well established, little is known about the early development and detection of this malignant disease. Cancer is the disease of epithelia and recently, it has been suggested that some cancers originate in adult stem cells. Advances have been made in identifying the gastric epithelial stem cells and their immediate descendents, which act as progenitors giving rise to mucus‐, acid‐, pepsinogen‐, and hormone‐secreting cell lineages. Analyses of some genetically manipulated animal models in which the proliferation and differentiation program of the gastric stem/progenitor cells was altered by different approaches have provided some clues to the cellular origin of gastric cancer. Despite the challenges and the similarity between gastric epithelial progenitors and their differentiation program in mice and humans, it remains to be determined whether observations made in genetically engineered mice are also applicable to humans.
Review of the Apoptosis Pathways in Pancreatic Cancer and the Anti‐apoptotic Effects of the Novel Sea Cucumber Compound, Frondoside A
Authors: Li X. , Roginsky A. B. , Ding X.‐Z. , Woodward C. , Collin P. , Newman R. A. , Bell, Jr R. H. , Adrian T. E.
Published: August 2009

Pancreatic cancer cells are resistant to the growth‐inhibitory and apoptosis‐inducing effects of conventional chemotherapeutic agents. There are multiple genetic and epigenetic events during the process of carcinogenesis that enable the cancer cells to avoid normal growth constraints and apoptosis. Investigation of the mechanisms involved has led to multiple strategies that encourage cell death and apoptosis to occur. The pathways involved are summarized in this review, together with some recently developed strategies to promote cell death in this cancer and with a particular focus on the frondoside A, a novel triterpenoid glycoside isolated from the Atlantic sea cucumber,Cucumaria frondosa. Frondoside A inhibited proliferation of AsPC‐1 human pancreatic cancer cells in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner, as measured by3H‐thymidine incorporation and cell counting. In concert with inhibition of cell growth, frondoside A induced significant morphological changes consistent with apoptosis. Propidium iodide DNA staining showed an increase of sub‐G0/G1 cell population of apoptotic cells induced by frondoside A. Frondoside A–induced apoptosis was confirmed by annexin V binding and TUNEL assay. Furthermore, western blotting showed a decrease in expression of Bcl‐2 and Mcl‐1, an increase in Bax expression, activation of caspases 3, 7, and 9, and an increase in the expression of the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor, p21. These findings show that frondoside A induced apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells through the mitochondrial pathway and activation of the caspase cascade. Finally, a very low concentration of frondoside A (10 μg/kg/day) inhibited growth of AsPC‐1 xenografts in athymic mice. In conclusion, new chemotherapeutic agents are desperately needed for pancreatic cancer because of the poor responsiveness to currently available treatment options. Frondoside A has potent growth inhibitory effects on human pancreatic cancer cells, and the inhibition of proliferation is accompanied by marked apoptosis. Frondoside A may be valuable for the treatment or chemoprevention of this devastating disease.
Recent London Improvements in Curative Radiation Therapy for Relevant Early Prostate Cancer
Authors: Plowman P. N.
Published: August 2009

Since the advent of PSA screening, the detection of early (organ confined) prostate cancer has improved. Although some indolent cancers in the elderly may be safely watched, the early diagnosis in younger men requires curative treatment. Two exciting modernized radiation therapy methods provide alternatives to major surgery and lead to cure rates equivalent to surgery. Modern intensity modulated external beam radiotherapy (IMRT) allows high‐dose treatment to the prostate (+/− seminal vesicles) while maximally sparing the rectum (due to the extraordinary capability of creating a concavity in a high‐dose radiation therapy volume). This has allowed escalation in the therapy dose to the prostate and improved cure rates. We have recently compared two different IMRT methods. Our introduction of “axial limits” rectal definition allows more accurate quantitation of relevant rectal sparing. Prostate radiation seed brachytherapy (Seattle 125‐iodine method) provides a sophisticated, single‐session radiation therapy method that has become the most popular curative method by busy men who want minimum interruption to their lives. The implant is “tailored” for the individual's gland size and shape, and in the London adaptation of the method there is interoperative monitoring of seed implantation, such that if any seed is slightly misplaced the information of deposition site is relayed back to a computer, which reconfigures the deposition of all subsequent seeds such that an ideal plan is achieved—dynamic, iterative, computer assisted implantation. The popularity of these two radiation techniques is largely due to the lesser rate of morbidity compared to surgery and the usual fast return to everyday life.
Implicit Learning in Control, Dyslexic, and Garden‐Variety Poor Readers
Authors: Stoodley Catherine J. , Ray Nicola J. , Jack Anthea , Stein John F.
Published: August 2009

Developmental dyslexia is diagnosed when children fail to acquire literacy skills despite adequate education and intellectual ability. There is evidence of impaired implicit learning in dyslexia, and it is possible that poor implicit learning in dyslexic children affects their acquisition of complex skills such as reading. To assess whether children with dyslexia show evidence of poor implicit motor learning, 45 dyslexic children completed a serial reaction time task (SRTT). Age‐matched controls (n= 44) and nondyslexic poor readers (“garden‐variety” poor readers, n= 20) were used as comparison groups. The inclusion of the garden‐variety poor‐reader group allows us to address the specificity of implicit learning deficits to dyslexics, as opposed to poor readers who do not have a discrepancy between their intellectual and literacy skills. There were no significant differences between the three groups in performance accuracy. However, whereas the controls and garden‐variety poor readers showed good implicit learning (measured by a significant reduction in response times from a block of random to a block of sequenced trials), the dyslexic group did not. These data suggest that implicit motor learning deficits may underlie the laborious learning seen in developmental dyslexia. Because garden‐variety poor readers were as able as control children to use the sequence cues to achieve better task performance, there may be differences in how garden‐variety poor readers and dyslexic children acquire knowledge. This has important implications for remediation programs that are specific to children with dyslexia and for distinguishing among varieties of poor readers.
Visual Skills and Cross‐Modal Plasticity in Deaf Readers
Authors: Dye Matthew W.G. , Hauser Peter C. , Bavelier Daphne
Published: August 2009

Most research on reading skill acquisition in deaf individuals has been conducted from the perspective of a hearing child learning to read. This approach may limit our understanding of how a deaf child approaches the task of learning to read and successfully acquires reading skills. An alternative approach is to consider how the cognitive skills that a deaf child brings to the reading task may influence the route by which he or she achieves reading fluency. A review of the literature on visual spatial attention suggests that deaf individuals are more distracted by visual information in the parafovea and periphery. We discuss how this may have an influence upon the perceptual processing of written text in deaf students.
Impact of Cerebellar Lesions on Reading and Phonological Processing
Authors: Ben‐Yehudah Gal , Fiez Julie A.
Published: August 2009

The relationship between cerebellar function and reading abilities is unclear. One theory of developmental dyslexia implicates the cerebellum in this reading disorder. Neuroimaging studies in normal readers consistently show cerebellar activation in tasks that involve reading. However, neuropsychological evidence for a relationship between cerebellar function and skilled reading is sparse. To further examine the role of the cerebellum in reading, we assessed reading skills and phonological processing in a group of patients with focal damage to the cerebellum. The patients' accuracy in naming single words and nonwords and their reading fluency and comprehension did not differ from that of age‐ and education‐matched healthy controls. The patients' performance on phonological awareness and phonological memory tasks was also within the range of the control group, although their performance was highly variable. In contrast, cerebellar damage did significantly compromise performance in two other tasks associated with phonological processing. In a visual rhyme judgment task, a subset of the patient group was impaired on items with a mismatch between orthographic and phonological information. On a verbal working memory task, the cerebellar compared to the control group recalled fewer items from a list of nonwords, but not from lists of familiar items. On the basis of the patients' pattern of behavioral impairments, we propose that cerebellar damage affects an articulatory monitoring process. Our findings indicate that intact cerebellar function is not necessary for skilled reading; however, we cannot exclude the potential contribution of the cerebellum to reading acquisition.
Motor Sequence Learning and Developmental Dyslexia
Authors: Orban Pierre , Lungu Ovidiu , Doyon Julien
Published: August 2009

Beyond the reading‐related deficits typical of developmental dyslexia (DD), recent evidence suggests that individuals afflicted with this condition also show difficulties in motor sequence learning. To date, however, little is known with respect to the characteristics of the learning impairments, nor to the neural correlates associated with this type of procedural deficit in DD patients. Here, we first summarize the results of the few behavioral and brain imaging studies that have investigated the effects of DD on motor sequence learning. To help guide research in this field, we then discuss relevant psychophysical and neuroimaging work conducted in healthy volunteers in relation to three different conceptual perspectives: when, how, and what. More specifically, we examine the cognitive boundaries that affect performance across the different stages of learning (i.e., “when”), the different cognitive processes (i.e., “how”) under which learning occurs, and the mental representations (i.e., “what”) that are elicited when acquiring this type of skilled behavior. It is hoped that this conceptual framework will be useful to researchers interested in further studying the nature of the motor learning impairment reported in DD.
Impaired Serial Visual Search in Children with Developmental Dyslexia
Authors: Sireteanu Ruxandra , Goebel Claudia , Goertz Ralf , Werner Ingeborg , Nalewajko Magdalena , Thiel Aylin
Published: August 2009

In order to test the hypothesis of attentional deficits in dyslexia, we investigated the performance of children with developmental dyslexia on a number of visual search tasks. When tested with conjunction tasks for orientation and form using complex, letter‐like material, dyslexic children showed an increased number of errors accompanied by faster reaction times in comparison to control children matched to the dyslexics on age, gender, and intelligence. On conjunction tasks for orientation and color, dyslexic children were also less accurate, but showed slower reaction times than the age‐matched control children. These differences between the two groups decreased with increasing age. In contrast to these differences, the performance of dyslexic children in feature search tasks was similar to that of control children. These results suggest that children with developmental dyslexia present selective deficits in complex serial visual search tasks, implying impairment in goal‐directed, sustained visual attention.
Role of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase‐Activating Polypeptide in the Pancreatic Endocrine System
Authors: Ahrén Bo
Published: August 2009

In the pancreatic islets, pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) is expressed in β cells and autonomic nerve terminals; the majority of these nerve terminals are parasympathetic. PACAP binds to three types of G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs): VPAC1 receptors, VPAC2 receptors, and PAC1 receptors. All these receptor types are expressed in pancreatic islets. PACAP stimulates insulin and glucagon secretion. These actions are achieved in part through increased formation of cAMP after activation of adenylate cyclase and in part through increase in cytosolic calcium, achieved through increase in calcium uptake and release from intracellular calcium stores. Deletion of PAC1 receptors or VPAC2 receptors results in impaired insulin secretion and glucose intolerance. Studies in PAC1 receptor gene deleted mice have suggested that PACAP may be of physiological importance in mediating prandial insulin secretion and in contributing to the glucagon response to hypoglycemia. Animal studies have also suggested that activation of the receptors, in particular VPAC2 receptors, may be used as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Hence, PACAP is an islet neuropeptide with a potential role in islet physiology and as a basis for development of islet‐promoting therapy in type 2 diabetes.
Role of Various Neurotransmitters in Mediating the Long‐Term Endocrine Consequences of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Authors: Lee Soon , Choi Irene , Kang Sang , Rivier Catherine
Published: August 2009

Adult rats and mice born to dams exposed to alcohol (fetal alcohol–exposed [FAE]) exhibit enhanced activity of their hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis when exposed to stressors. However, the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon remain incompletely understood. Here two possibilities are reviewed: one that pertains to nitric oxide (NO), an unstable gas that stimulates the HPA axis; and one that focuses on catecholamines, which also stimulate this axis. Significant alterations were not observed in levels of NO synthase, the enzyme responsible for NO formation, in the paraventricula nucleus (PVN) of FAE rats. However, the stimulatory influence of this gas on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis was enhanced in these animals, thereby providing a mechanism likely to participate in the neuroendocrine hyperactivity that is the hallmark of this model. It was also recently shown that, while the ability of catecholamines to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was comparable in control rats and rats exposed to alcohol during embryonic development, there was a significant upregulation of the C1 brain‐stem region when these latter animals were exposed to mild footshocks. Since this region sends prominent projections to the PVN, its increased activity may participate in the HPA axis hyperactivity observed in FAE offspring. Finally, microarray technology was used to search for potential differences in genes present in the brains of control and FAE mice. When these brains were collected on day 17.5 of embryonic development, several genes were upregulated, while others were downregulated, which may provide potential new candidates that mediate the influence of prenatal alcohol on the HPA axis of adult offspring.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide–Mediated Th17 Differentiation
Authors: Yadav Mahesh , Goetzl Edward J.
Published: August 2009

Interactions between neural and immune effector pathways serve a vital role in mammalian defenses against foreign pathogens and toxins. The immune system initiates processes leading to the release of diverse mediators and cytokines that recruit neural and endocrine involvement in immunity. Inversely, transmitters released from nerves innervating immune organs regulate the development and functions of the immune cells. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is the quantitatively and functionally most prominent immunoregulatory neuropeptide that participates in local tissue immune responses by potently affecting T cell and macrophage migration, proliferation, and cytokine production. T cells, macrophages, and mast cells express the VIP G protein–coupled receptors (GPCR) VPAC1 and VPAC2 that transduce the effects of VIP on immunity. The VIP–VPAC axes also are coupled to abnormal T cell functions in different autoimmune conditions. Recently, it has been shown that VIP also enhances the differentiation of distinctive type of proinflammatory Th17 cells by a VPAC1‐dependent mechanism. This unique VIP–VPAC1 signaling in Th17 cell differentiation expands our understanding of VIP immune functions, provides new insights into the immune roles of individual VPAC receptors, and offers meaningful possibilities for improving therapeutic potential of VIP in immune disorders.
Perinatal Maternal Fat Intake Affects Metabolism and Hippocampal Function in the Offspring
Authors: Walker Claire‐Dominique , Naef Lindsay , D'Asti Esterina , Long Hong , Xu Zhifang , Moreau Alain , Azeddine Bouziane
Published: August 2009

Both undernutrition and overnutrition of the mother during pregnancy and lactation produce a syndrome of altered energy balance in the offspring and has long‐lasting consequences on CNS systems regulating food intake, metabolism, and food reward. Homeostatic circulating factors like insulin, glucocorticoids, and leptin that are generally increased by exposure to high fat/high caloric diets constitute important signals in these processes. They trigger functional activation of specific intracellular cascades mediating cellular sensitivity, survival, and synaptic plasticity. Using a model whereby the late fetal and neonatal rat is exposed to increased high fat (HF) via HF feeding of the mother, we investigated the proximal (neonatal) and distal (adult) consequences on metabolism and hippocampal function in the offspring. Adult offspring of HF‐fed mothers displayed several of the physiological and behavioral changes susceptible to leading to metabolic complications. These include elevated circulating concentrations of leptin and corticosterone, increased body weight gain and food intake, modest preference for fat‐containing food types, as well as the onset of hypothalamic leptin resistance. In the hippocampus, HF‐fed offspring or neonates treated with leptin show similar increases in neurogenesis and survival of newborn neurons. We identified some of the direct effects of leptin to increase synaptic proteins, N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA), and glucocorticoid receptors, and to reduce long‐term potentiation (LTP) prior to weaning. While these studies have documented effects in animal models, concepts can easily be translated to human nutrition in order to help design better perinatal diets and nutritional preventive measures for mothers in a coordinated effort to curb the obesity trend.
The Sall2 Transcription Factor Is a Novel p75NTR Binding Protein That Promotes the Development and Function of Neurons
Authors: Pincheira Roxana , Donner David B.
Published: August 2009

Nerve growth factor (NGF) regulates the functions of neurons by binding the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and TrkA receptors. It is shown here that it has been found that the Sall2 transcription factor forms a complex with p75NTR. NGF dissociates Sall2 from p75NTR and also activates TrkA, which promotes translocation of Sall2 into the nucleus. Nuclear Sall2 activates target genes that modulate the growth and development of neurons. Thus, one way that p75NTR and TrkA can modulate the functions of neurons is by regulating the localization and actions of Sall2.
Human Mast Cells Stimulate Activated T Cells
Authors: Theoharides Theoharis C. , Kempuraj Duraisamy , Kourelis Taxiarchis , Manola Akrivi
Published: August 2009

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system mainly mediated by Th1 and/or Th17 cells, which cross the blood–brain barrier. Recent evidence indicates that Th2 cells and mast cells, typically associated with allergic reactions, are also involved. Brain mast cells are critically located perivascularly and secrete numerous proinflammatory and vasoactive molecules that can disrupt the blood–brain barrier, a finding that precedes clinical or pathologic signs of multiple sclerosis. Brain mast cells in multiple sclerosis are activated by neural factors, including substance P, myelin basic protein, and corticotropin‐releasing hormone, caused by acute stress, which induce release of several inflammatory mediators. Mast cells can stimulate activated T cells coming in contact with them at the blood–brain barrier, as well as after stimulation with myelin basic protein or substance P. Pretreatment with the flavone luteolin blocks mast cell stimulation and T cell activation, as well as experimental autoimmune encephalitis. Interactions between mast cells and T cells could constitute a new and unique therapeutic target for multiple sclerosis.
Epidemiological Scenario of Giardiosis in Dogs from Central Italy
Authors: Paoletti Barbara , Iorio Raffaella , Capelli Gioia , Sparagano Olivier A. E. , Giangaspero Annunziata
Published: August 2009

In order to update and implement the data on the epidemiological situation of giardiosis in the Italian arena, stool samples from 240 dogs living in the Abruzzo region (central Italy) were examined for prevalence, risk factors, and genotypes. Giardia duodenalis cysts were detected in 26.6% of the dogs and kennel dogs tested. Dogs younger than 12 months (38%) and with diarrhea (46%) were statistically more affected. Species‐specific G. duodenalis assemblages (C and D) were identified in kennel and in privately owned dogs, while the zoonotic assemblage A was identified in privately owned dogs. In light of these results, giardiosis in dogs, and mainly in well‐cared dogs, is still a problem of concern and may pose a public health risk.
Localization of Entamoeba histolytica Amebopore in Amebic Liver Abscesses in Hamsters
Authors: González A. , Monterrubio D. , Nequiz M. , López R. , Olivos A. , De Léon C. García , Tello E. , Salaiza N. , Ramos E. , Gudiño M. , Montfort I. , Pérez‐Tamayo R.
Published: August 2009

Amebopore was purified from axenically grown trophozoites of the Entamoeba histolytica strain HM1:IMSS. The purification procedure involved Mono Q anion‐exchange chromatography and electroelution. Sequence analysis of the final product revealed that amebopore A was completely pure. Polyclonal antibodies against the purified amebopore were obtained from rabbits, and Western blot studies demonstrated their specificity. Sections of experimental, acute (1, 2, 3, and 4 days), amebic liver abscesses produced in hamsters were stained with the anti‐amebopore antibody; in all the analyzed stages, amebopore appeared as a constitutively expressed cytoplasmic molecule in trophozoites. No extracellular or hepatocyte‐membrane amebopore was found. This study is the first to trace amebopore in an in vivo model of amebic liver abscesses.
Presence of Trypanosoma theileri in Spanish Cattle
Authors: Villa Aleida , Gutierrez Carlos , Gracia Elena , Moreno Bernardino , Chacón Gema , Sanz Pablo Varela , Büscher Philippe , Touratier Louis
Published: August 2009

Trypanosoma theileri (Laveran, 1902) has been diagnosed in many countries and is commonly considered as a nonpathogenic hemoparasite, although some authors have described clinical signs in cattle infected with T. theileri. In April and May, 2005, 12 blood samples were received at the Exopol Diagnostic Laboratory (Zaragoza, Spain) from a Spanish bull‐fighting farm located at Seville province. Clinical exploration of the animals revealed fever, progressive weight loss, anemia, and frequent recumbent position. Microscopic examination showed Theileria spp. in all cases (12), and in four of them, T. theileri was also observed. The clinical picture observed in the animals could be compatible with T. theileria infection. However, the contribution of T. theileri to the clinical signs seen at least in four cases is unknown. Further studies are necessary to determine the pathogenicity of T. theileri in the different animal species. To our knowledge, this is the first isolation of T. theileri in Spain.
Leishmania DNA Quantification by Real‐time PCR in Naturally Infected Dogs Treated with Miltefosine
Authors: Manna Laura , Gravino Angelo Elio , Picillo Esther , Decaro Nicola , Buonavoglia Canio
Published: August 2009

A new drug that has just become available in India for treatment of human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is miltefosine, an alkyphospholipid that was originally developed as an oral antineoplastic agent. Miltefosine is not only directly toxic for Leishmania parasite, but it also enhances both T cell and macrophage activation and production of microbicidal reactive nitrogen and oxygen intermediates. It is highly effective in the treatment of Leishmania infection in mice and human beings. However, adverse effects in dogs treated with miltefosine have been reported, but there are no data on the efficacy of this drug for the treatment of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL). The aim of this study was to use a real‐time PCR assay to monitor the Leishmania load in the blood samples and lymph node aspirates of 18 naturally infected dogs before and after treatment with miltefosine (2 mg/kg for 30 days). The results of our study showed that the therapy with miltefosine shows a drastic and progressive reduction of parasite load in lymph node aspirates, but does not suppress the parasite in lymph nodes. In all dogs the real‐time PCR assay demonstrated an irregular presence of parasites in blood. Therefore, blood does not seem a suitable substrate for the purpose of quantifying Leishmania DNA.
Use of Plant‐derived Products to Control Arthropods of Veterinary Importance: A Review
Authors: George David R. , Guy Jonathan H. , Arkle Sam , Harrington David , De Luna Carlos , Okello Edward J. , Shiel Robert S. , Port Gordon , Sparagano Olivier A. E.
Published: August 2009

The use of synthetic products in veterinary pest management is becoming increasingly problematic. Issues, including pest resistance, product withdrawal, undesirable environmental persistence, and high mammalian toxicity associated with synthetic pesticides, are driving research to identify new pest management approaches. One approach employs the repellent/toxic effects of plant‐derived products (PDPs). Several pesticides based on PDPs are already available in some areas of pest management. This review highlights instances in which such products have been used with success against pests of domestic animals, livestock, apiculture, and poultry.
Effect of Amblyomma cajennense Ticks on the Immune Response of BALB/c Mice and Horses
Authors: Castagnolli Karina Carrão , Ferreira Beatriz Rossetti , Franzin Alessandra Mara , De Castro Márcio Botelho , Szabó Matias Pablo Juan
Published: August 2009

This work evaluated the effect of the Amblyomma cajennense tick on the immune response of BALB/c mice and on horse lymph node cell proliferation. We observed that mice do not develop resistance to nymphs of this tick species and that lymphocyte proliferation of this host is inhibited by tick saliva, nymphal extract, or infestations. Horse lymph node cell proliferation is inhibited by tick saliva as well. Mice lymphocytes under the effect of tick saliva, nymphal extract, or infestations display a predominantly Th‐2 cytokine production pattern. Observed results partially explain this tick's disease vectoring capacity and broad host range.
msa‐1 and msa‐2c Gene Analysis and Common Epitopes Assessment in Mexican Babesia bovis Isolates
Authors: Borgonio Veronica , Mosqueda Juan , Genis Alma D. , Falcon Alfonso , Alvarez J. Antonio , Camacho Minerva , Figueroa Julio V.
Published: August 2009

Babesia bovis msa‐1 and msa‐2c genes belong to the variable merozoite surface antigen gene family. These genes code for antigenic proteins present on the merozoite surface (MSA) and are involved in the parasite invasion to the bovine erythrocyte. Previous studies carried out on MSA‐1 have evidenced antigen allelic variation in B. bovis isolates from similar endemic regions, as well as in isolates from different geographic regions of the world (Argentina, Australia, Israel). Studies conducted on MSA‐2c, however, have shown that this antigen is widely conserved on isolates from distinct geographic regions. In this study, it was hypothesized that MSA‐1 and MSA‐2c antigens would contain common epitopes despite the presence of nucleotide sequence differences found in 13 B. bovis isolates and strains collected in geographically distant regions of Mexico. Bioinformatics analysis of the primary structure from DNA fragments derived from PCR amplification, cloning, and sequencing of msa‐1 and msa‐2c genes from the 13 B. bovis populations revealed that the msa‐1 gene product present in the various isolates tested is less conserved among isolates obtained within a similar geographic region in Mexico (51–99.7% sequence identity). Results obtained by immunoblot analysis of B. bovis protein extracts reacted with a monoclonal antibody to MSA‐1 42‐kDa antigen, conclusively showed cross‐reactive common epitopes only in Mexican isolates having high sequence identity (≥99%, eight isolates). Sequence analysis and multiple alignment of deduced MSA‐2c demonstrated a high degree of sequence identity (90–100%) among the Mexican B. bovis isolates and strains. Immunoblot results using a polyclonal antibody to MSA‐2c reacted against the protein extracts recognized conserved epitopes in at least nine of the B. bovis isolates. The results obtained in this study agree with those previously reported by other researchers and confirm that, based in sequence identity conservation in Mexican B. bovis isolates and strains so far collected and analyzed, MSA‐2c represents an ideal antigen worth evaluating as a vaccine candidate.
Improved Molecular Tools for Detection of Babesia bigemina
Authors: Petrigh Romina , Ruybal Paula , Thompson Carolina , Neumann Roberto , Moretta Rosalia , Wilkowsky Silvina , Draghi Graciela , Echaide Ignacio , De Echaide Susana Torioni , Farber Marisa
Published: August 2009

Molecular detection of Babesia bigemina involves a nested PCR protocol and reverse line blot hybridization (RLBH) assay based on the 18S gene. In this study, we report the development of molecular tools for improving B. bigemina detection in bovine blood—a one‐step PCR assay based on the amplification of rap‐1a paralogous and a new RLBH Babesia spp. 18S probe. The one‐step PCR assay is highly specific, with an estimated analytical sensitivity corresponding to 0.00002% parasitemia. The RLBH assay, with a new B. bigemina probe, allows the detection of all tested B. bigemina isolates showing no cross‐hybridization with B. bovis 18S gene. By developing this highly specific and sensitive one‐step PCR and upgrading the RLBH assay for B. bigemina, we have improved molecular assays which, together with serologic methods, provide valuable tools for epidemiologic studies of bovine babesiosis.
Comparison between Different Polymerase Chain Reaction Methods for the Diagnosis of Ehrlichia canis Infection
Authors: Aguirre Enara , Tesouro Miguel A. , Amusategui Inmaculada , Rodríguez‐Franco Fernando , Sainz Angel
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to compare different polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for the detection of Ehrlichia canis in blood samples and to relate these results to clinical findings and serology to E. canis using the indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test. Nine seropositive and nine seronegative dogs were included in this study. DNA was extracted once and used in one simple PCR and five nested PCR protocols previously described. In selected dogs (three seropositive and one seronegative) blood samples were aseptically collected in order to attempt the isolation of E. canis in the DH82 cell line. Results show that nested PCR protocols seem to be more sensitive than the simple PCR. Considering only nested PCR protocols, 33% of the IFA‐positive samples were PCR positive using the five different protocols. The rest of the IFA‐positive samples were PCR positive or negative depending on the protocol used. Clinical signs and laboratory findings compatible with canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) were found in 67% of dogs positive by the IFA test. All samples positive by both techniques (IFA test and PCR) were from dogs suffering from clinical CME. IFA‐negative samples were PCR negative, except 22% that were PCR positive when using only one of the nested PCR protocols. Isolation of the agent was exclusively achieved in the only case in which the IFA test and all the PCR protocols were also positive.
New Epidemiological and Molecular Insights into Feline Lungworm Infection
Authors: Iorio Raffaella , Traversa Donato
Published: August 2009

Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (Nematoda, Strongylida) lives in the terminal respiratory bronchioles and alveolar ducts of cats. The infection may present with respiratory signs of varying severity and can be life threatening. Despite the importance of A. abstrusus in feline medicine and recent reports of clinical cases of aelurostrongylosis in Italy, epidemiological data are sparse and molecular information available on the parasite are lacking. The present work reports recent insights into the epidemiology of feline lungworm infection in Italy and contributes to the molecular knowledge of A. abstrusus. Individual stool samples were collected from 100 animals and examined with flotation and Baermann methods. The risk factors were analyzed by binary logistic multiple‐regression models. All positive fecal samples (n= 16) were subjected to the PCR‐coupled sequencing of the rDNA internal trancribed spacer 2 (ITS2). The detected infection rate differs significantly from data reported in the literature, and stray and free‐ranging cats and the presence of respiratory symptoms were risk factors for the infection. The molecular characterization showed that the ITS2 sequence is a promising genetic target for a holistic approach to the study of cat lungworm infection. Epidemiological and molecular insights and avenues are discussed.
Burden of Zoonotic Diseases in Venezuela during 2004 and 2005
Authors: Benitez Jesus A. , Rodriguez‐Morales Alfonso J. , Vivas Paul , Plaz Jorge
Published: August 2009

Emerging zoonotic diseases have increased in importance in human and animal health during the last 10 years. Each of these diseases has emerged from an unsuspected quarter and has caused severe problems. In countries, such as Venezuela, the burden of these zoonoses has been understudied. In this report we analyze the status of such diseases in Venezuela for the period 2004–2005. During this period a significant number of animal and human cases of these diseases have been found, particularly for rabies, encephalitis, leishmaniasis, and cysticercosis among others. Surveillance needs to be reinforced for these zoonoses.