bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does ‘Idiopathic Pleuritis’ Exist? Natural History of Non-Specific Pleuritis Diagnosed after Thoracoscopy
Authors: Venekamp L.N. , Velkeniers B. , Noppen M.
Published: March 2005

Background: Even after a complete work-up including thoracoscopic biopsies, a significant number of patients with pleural exudates are diagnosed with ‘non-specific pleuritis’, and no specific diagnosis can be made. The natural evolution of these patients is poorly understood. Objectives: To study the natural evolution of patients with non-specific pleuritis diagnosed after thoracoscopy and to evaluate whether the histological diagnosis of non-specific pleuritis corresponds with the clinical diagnosis of ‘idiopathic pleuritis’. Methods: We retrospectively studied the evolution of 75 patients between 1992 and 2002 (49 men and 26 women), mean (± SD) age 63.4 (± 13.3) years, who underwent diagnostic thoracoscopy because of an unexplained exudative pleural effusion, and in whom the histological diagnosis of non-specific pleuritis was made. Follow-up data were obtained through medical files and/or telephone contacts with general practitioners. Results: Of these 75 patients, 8.3% eventually developed a malignancy during the follow-up period. In the remaining patients (91.7%), the clinical evolution followed a benign course. Ultimately, a probable cause was established on clinical grounds in 40 patients. True idiopathic pleuritis was finally observed in 25% of patients with the histological diagnosis of non-specific pleuritis. Recurrence of the effusion occurred in 10 out of 60 (16.7%) patients, after a mean period of 26.2 months. Conclusions: The majority of non-specific pleuritis patients (91.7%) followed a benign course, with a spontaneous resolution of the effusion in 81.8% of cases. In the majority of patients, a probable cause of the pleuritis was identified. True ‘idiopathic benign pleuritis’ hence occurs in only a minority (25%) of patients.
Does Rigid Bronchoscopy Induce Bacterial Translocation?
Authors: Ozkurt S. , Herek O. , Atalay H. , Kaleli I. , Kara C.O.
Published: March 2005

Background: Although some reports suggest that bronchoscopy induces bacterial translocation (BT), the mechanisms of BT remain unclear. Objective: We aimed to assess whether bronchoscopy or hypoxemia during bronchoscopy is responsible for BT. Methods: We evaluated 24 rats divided into three subgroups: the control group (group 1, n = 8); the rigid bronchoscopy group (group 2, n = 8), and the group receiving bronchoscopy + mechanical ventilation (group 3, n = 8). Oxygen saturation (SaO2) was measured during the bronchoscopic procedure. Blood and tissue cultures from mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), liver, spleen and cecal contents were obtained 24 h following bronchoscopy. Results: In group 2, SaO2 was significantly lower than in groups 1 and 3 (p < 0.01). In group 2, BT significantly increased (6/8, 75%; p < 0.01 vs. group 1, and p < 0.05 vs. group 3). The main site of translocation was MLNs (6/8, 75%) in group 2, while BT was detected in only 1 rat in group 3 (1/8, 12.5%). Conclusion: Hypoxemia during rigid bronchoscopy resulted in intestinal mucosal damage in a rat model. Hypoxemia may have been the trigger for BT from the intestine following bronchoscopy.
Drugs in Clinical Development for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Molfino Néstor A.
Published: March 2005

Many drugs may be potentially useful in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but relatively few become available for human use due to lack of safety, lack of efficacy, or both. This is an inherent risk in the drug development process, which coupled with the limited understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of COPD, has produced a trend toward improving existing compounds rather than to develop new compounds. This review focuses on improved existing compounds and newly discovered compounds that are in clinical trials, but not yet marketed. The improved existing compounds include: isomers of the long-acting bronchodilators, once-daily b2-adrenoceptor agonists, anticholinergics and corticosteroids. The pool of novel compounds is in constant fluctuation and comprises anti-inflammatory drugs, antioxidants, leukotriene modifiers and a number of compounds aimed at treating different aspects of COPD such as pulmonary hypertension and hypophosphatemia.
Severe and Steroid-Resistant Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Michetti Pierre , Mottet Christian , Juillerat Pascal , Felley Christian , Vader John-Paul , Burnand Bernard , Gonvers Jean-Jacques , Froehlich Florian
Published: March 2005

Patients with moderate to severe disease and patients with steroid-refractory or steroid-dependent disease differ in their management, as the latter groups usually include patients with less acute situations. Systemic corticosteroids represent the mainstay of the management of moderate to severe disease and remain the first-line therapy in this setting. Infliximab is the choice alternative for patients who do not respond to steroids or in whom steroids are contraindicated. Purine analogues, methotrexate and infliximab have shown efficacy in achieving steroid-free remission in patients with steroid-refractory or -dependent disease. Other fast-acting immunosuppressors showed little benefit. Surgery may be indicated in this setting. Nataluzimab may prove useful in patients refractory to infliximab.
Maintenance of Remission in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Gonvers Jean-Jacques , Juillerat Pascal , Mottet Christian , Felley Christian , Burnand Bernard , Vader John-Paul , Michetti Pierre , Froehlich Florian
Published: March 2005

When remission of Crohn’s disease is achieved, the next goal is to maintain long-term remission. Aminosalicylates may be recommended for maintenance remission, even though the results are less consistent than those observed in ulcerative colitis. The benefit is mainly observed in the post-surgical setting and in patients with ileitis, and with a prolonged disease duration. Corticosteroids are not effective in maintaining remission and should not be used for this indication. Azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine are effective in maintaining remission. Maintenance benefits remain significant for patients who continued with the therapy for up to 5 years. Methotrexate has also been found to be effective in maintaining remission in Crohn’s disease in patients who have responded acutely to methotrexate. Cyclosporine has not been found to be an effective maintenance agent. Mycophenolate mofetil could be considered a therapy in patients who are either allergic to azathioprine or in whom azathioprine failed to induce remission. The use of infliximab may change the future approach to maintenance therapy for Crohn’s disease. Patients who responded clinically to infliximab have maintained their clinical response when receiving repeat infusions at 8-week intervals. In patients refractory to other therapies, infliximab may be effective in maintaining remission.
Treatment of Postoperative Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Froehlich Florian , Juillerat Pascal , Felley Christian , Mottet Christian , Vader John-Paul , Burnand Bernard , Michetti Pierre , Gonvers Jean-Jacques
Published: March 2005

At 1 year after a first resection, up to 80% of patients show an endoscopic recurrence, 10–20% have clinical relapse, and 5% have surgical recurrence. Smoking is one of the most important risk factors for postoperative recurrence. Preoperative disease activity and the severity of endoscopic lesions in the neoterminal ileum within the first postoperative year are predictors of symptomatic recurrence. Mesalamine is generally the first-line treatment used in the postoperative setting but still provokes considerable controversy as to its efficacy, in spite of the results of a meta-analysis. Immunosuppressive treatment (azathioprine, 6-MP) is based on scant evidence but is currently used as a second-line treatment in postsurgical patients at high risk for recurrence, with symptoms or with early endoscopic lesions in the neoterminal ileum. Nitroimidazole antibiotics (metronidazole, ornidazole) are also effective in the control of active Crohn’s disease in the postoperative setting. Given their known toxicity, they may be used as a third-line treatment as initial short-term prevention therapy rather than for long-term use. Conventional corticosteroids, budesonide or probiotics have no proven role in postoperative prophylaxis. Infliximab has not as yet been studied for use in the prevention of relapse after surgery.
Course of Autism Signs in the First Year of Life
Authors: Maestro S. , Muratori F. , Cesari A. , Cavallaro M.C. , Paziente A. , Pecini C. , Grassi C. , Manfredi A. , Sommario C.
Published: March 2005

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are thought to be present right from birth, even if a minority of children displays a normal course during infancy followed by a regression during the second year of life. However, established criteria are not yet available to differentiate these different courses of ASD, and data coming from different sources have not yet been organized into a clear definition. The aim of this study was to elucidate the time of onset, as well as type, frequency and stability of symptoms during the first year of life in ASD. The behavioral summarized evaluation scale, applied to 40 home movies of children later diagnosed as having ASD, showed that most of the subjects (87.5%) display symptoms within the first year of life, when only a small group (12.5%) is completely symptom free. A group of more rated symptoms was found, constituting a typical pattern characterized by being withdrawn, and displaying poor social initiative, hypoactivity, and lack of emotional modulation. The importance of these findings is discussed in relation to early diagnosis and treatment.
Serum Alpha- and Gamma-Tocopherol Levels in Atopic Mothers and Their Infants Are Correlated
Authors: Hoppu Ulla , Salo-Väänänen Pirjo , Lampi Anna-Maija , Isolauri Erika
Published: March 2005

Background: Vitamin E may have immunomodulatory properties beyond its antioxidant function. The objective here was to assess the α- and γ-tocopherol status and its correlation between atopic mothers and their infants. Methods: Mothers with atopic disease were recruited at the end of gestation and their infants were followed up. Serum samples from mothers and infants were collected at the infants’ age of 1 month. Atopic dermatitis was diagnosed during the 1st year of life and skin prick tests were performed at 1 year. Results: Infants’ serum γ- and α-tocopherol to fat ratios were significantly correlated with maternal serum ratios (r = 0.70, p < 0.0001 and r = 0.52, p = 0.004, respectively). In infants the serum α-tocopherol/fat was higher and the γ-tocopherol/fat ratio lower than in mothers. Serum tocopherol levels were not associated with skin prick test reactions or atopic dermatitis in the infants. Conclusions: Maternal tocopherol status determines that of the infant. Different tocopherol forms may have different serum levels and roles in the regulation of inflammatory diseases.
The Diffusion-Weighted Lesion in Acute Stroke: Heterogeneous Patterns of Flow/Metabolism Uncoupling as Assessed by Quantitative Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Guadagno Joseph V. , Warburton Elizabeth A. , Jones Peter S. , Fryer Tim D. , Day Diana J. , Gillard Jonathan H. , Carpenter T. Adrian , Aigbirhio Franklin I. , Price Christopher J. , Baron Jean-Claude
Published: March 2005

Background: To investigate what the hyperintense lesion in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of acute ischaemic stroke represents metabolically, we prospectively imaged acute carotid-territory stroke patients with DWI along with fully quantitative positron emission tomography (PET), which gives physiological maps of cerebral blood flow (CBF), the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) and the oxygen extraction fraction (OEF). Method: Of 10 patients who consented, 5 (3 males, 2 females, 53–84 years, NIHSS 6–16) completed the imaging protocol of back-to-back DWI and PET within 21 (mean 15.7, range 7–21) h of stroke onset. All images were co-registered with the DWI lesion forming a region of interest (ROI) that was transferred to the PET parametric maps (OEF, CBF, CMRO2). Patterns of blood flow and metabolism were assessed within the DWI ROI. Results: Within the DWI lesions, the following patterns were observed: very low CBF and CMRO2/variable OEF; low CBF/high OEF, and high CBF/low OEF. There was a heterogeneity of patterns between and within DWI lesions. In addition, areas of hyperperfusion (with low OEF) and areas of hypoperfusion (with high OEF) were seen outside the DWI lesions. Conclusion: The DWI lesion does not have a single flow/metabolism counterpart, suggesting that it reflects various stages of the ischaemic process.
Neurotrophic Factor Expression after Focal Brain Ischemia Preceded by Different Preconditioning Strategies
Authors: Pera Joanna , Zawadzka Malgorzata , Kaminska Bozena , Szczudlik Andrzej
Published: March 2005

Background: Both prolonged brain ischemia and preconditioning (PC) induce expression of neurotrophic factors. However, the influence of PC on their expression after a long-term ischemia remains vague. Previously, we have found various effects of PC on mRNA levels of different cytokines after focal brain ischemia. Thus, we investigated mRNA expression of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor after 90-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) preceded by ischemic or chemical PC. Methods: MCAo was induced in rats using the suture method. PC had been carried out 3 days earlier. There were 4 experimental groups: MCAo alone; ischemic PC and MCAo; chemical PC and MCAo, and sham-operated rats. Expression of mRNAs in the ipsi- and contralateral cortex was studied by semiquantitative RT-PCR at 12 and 24 h after MCAo. Results: Despite clearly neuroprotective effects of both PC strategies, mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors were similar in tolerant and nontolerant rats. Only BDNF mRNA expression, 12 h after reperfusion, was lower when ischemic PC was applied prior to long-term ischemia. Conclusions: These results suggest that PC generally does not change the expression of neurotrophic factor expression after a long-term focal brain ischemia compared to the nontolerant state.
Bendrofluazide Fails to Reduce Elevated Blood Pressure Levels in the Immediate Post-Stroke Period
Authors: Eames Penelope J. , Robinson Thompson G. , Panerai Ronney B. , Potter John F.
Published: March 2005

Introduction: Blood pressure (BP) levels, beat-to-beat blood pressure variability, dynamic cerebral autoregulation and cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity are frequently abnormal following acute stroke and are associated with an adverse short- and long-term prognosis. Thiazide diuretics are effective antihypertensive agents in preventing primary and secondary stroke, but their hypotensive and cerebral autoregulatory effects in the immediate post-stroke period have not been studied. Methods: Thirty-seven hypertensive neuroradiologically proven ischaemic stroke patients were randomized in a double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group study to bendrofluazide 2.5 mg daily or matching placebo, within 96 h of stroke onset, for a 7-day period. Casual and non-invasive beat-to-beat arterial BP levels, cerebral blood flow velocity, ECG and transcutaneous carbon dioxide levels were measured within 70 ± 20 h of cerebral infarction and again 7 days later. Dynamic cerebral autoregulatory indices, pulse interval, BP variability and cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity were also calculated. Results: Small, non-significant falls were seen in casual and beat-to-beat BP levels over the 7-day period in both active and placebo-treated patients with no differences between treatments. No significant changes were seen in dynamic cerebral autoregulation or in cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity during the follow-up in either group. Conclusion: Following acute ischaemic stroke, the standard dose of bendrofluazide at 2.5 mg daily in this study sample did not lower systemic BP levels over the subsequent 7-day period. There was no evidence that bendrofluazide significantly altered cerebral autoregulation or improved cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity post-ictus. Bendrofluazide appears to be an ineffective hypotensive agent at the standard dosage in the initial post-stroke period.
Safety and Feasibility of a Lower Dose Intravenous TPA Therapy for Ischemic Stroke beyond the First Three Hours
Authors: Uchino Ken , Alexandrov Andrei V. , Garami Zsolt , El-Mitwalli Ashraf , Morgenstern Lewis B. , Grotta James C.
Published: March 2005

Background: The most common reason that patients do not receive intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is the inability to meet the strict 3-hour treatment window. The risk/benefit ratio is more unfavorable beyond this time, but some patients might still benefit. We designed a pilot study with the hypothesis that lower dose TPA might be safe in selected patients treated beyond 3 h. Subjects and Methods: To determine the range of symptomatic hemorrhage and good outcome, we prospectively gave IV TPA 0.6 mg/kg up to 60 mg (15% bolus, 85% infusion over 30 min) to patients with ischemic stroke beyond the first 3 h after last known to be normal. Other eligibility criteria were: NIH Stroke Scale ≧4, normal head CT scan, and clinical suspicion or transcranial Doppler (TCD) evidence of a proximal arterial occlusion. Results: 28 patients were treated, median age 65 (range 24–88) years, median baseline NIHSS score 18 (range 7–34) points. TPA bolus was given 372 ± 158 min after stroke onset (range 189–720). Symptomatic hemorrhage occurred in 3/28 (11%) patients, including 1 fatal bleed. Overall mortality was 6/28 (21%). Partial or complete recanalization was found in 8/20 (40%) TCD monitored patients within 2 h after TPA bolus. Early major improvement occurred in 4/28 (14%) patients. Conclusions: Lower dose IV TPA in patients presenting beyond 3 h carries a risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. However, recanalization with dramatic recovery can still occur.
Detection of Renal Dysfunctions in Family Members of Patients with Balkan Endemic Nephropathy
Authors: Arsenović Aleksandra , Bukvić Danica , Trbojević Staljinka , Marić Ivko , Djukanović Ljubica
Published: March 2005

Background/Aim: Recent studies have questioned whether new cases of Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) are occurring. The aim of the present study was to find out whether new members with renal dysfunctions can be identified among family members of BEN patients from the Kolubara region. Methods: The study included 47 family members of 5 BEN patients on hemodialysis (HD) and 17 members of 3 non-BEN patients on HD. Their medical and epidemiological histories were taken, an objective survey made, and all persons were examined for global and tubular kidney function. Results: Seven BEN family members (2 with previously known BEN) had creatinine clearance (Ccr) below the 75th percentile rank according to sex and age. All non-BEN family members had normal Ccr and no evidence of previous renal disorders. Hypertension was found in 20 (43%) BEN and 6 (35%) non-BEN family members. No significant differences in the frequency of renal function disorders (proteinuria, α1-microglobulinuria, urine specific gravity, osmolality, functional excretion of sodium, tubular phosphate resorption) or anemia were found between the groups. Renal disorders were detected in 18 BEN family members without previously detected disease, 3 of whom fulfilled criteria for a diagnosis of BEN and another 2 for BEN-suspected persons. Conclusion: New cases of BEN are still arising among the affected families in the Kolubara region.
Glomerular Localization of Erythropoietin Receptor mRNA and Protein in Neonatal and Mature Mouse Kidney
Authors: Echigoya Masayo H. , Obikane Katsuyuki , Nakashima Taiji , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: March 2005

Background/Aims: Erythropoietin (EPO) possesses well-established hematopoietic properties as the primary stimulator of red blood cell formation by binding to its receptor (EPO-R). Recent evidence suggests pathophysiological roles of EPO in several non-hematopoietic tissues including kidney. Our aim was to further clarify the glomerular localization of EPO-R in normal kidney, as well as changes in its expression during glomerulogenesis. Methods:We analyzed EPO-R mRNA and protein expression in neonatal and adult mouse kidney by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. To confirm the precise localization and developmental changes of EPO-R expression in podocytes in mature and developing glomeruli, we examined co-expression with the podocyte markers WT-1 and synaptopodin. Results: In addition to tubular expression as reported recently, EPO-R expression was observed in podocytes as well as endocapillary cells in the glomeruli from adult mice. In newborn kidney, EPO-R mRNA and protein expression was first observed in developing podocytes in S-shaped bodies with expression subsequently increasing in glomeruli at the capillary-loop and maturing stages. Immunoelectron microscopy also demonstrated cytoplasmic expression of EPO-R that was prominent at the basal sides of podocytes in glomeruli at the late capillary-loop and maturing stage. Conclusion: EPO-R is expressed in developing and mature podocytes in mouse kidney, suggesting a possible role for EPO in podocyte biology.
Signals Which Build a Tubule
Authors: Karihaloo Anil , Nickel Christian , Cantley Lloyd G.
Published: March 2005

The phenomenon of branching morphogenesis is a fundamental process critical for development of several tubular organs including lung, mammary gland, and kidney. In the case of kidney, the ureteric bud (UB) that extends out from a pre-existing epithelial tube, the Wolffian duct, gives rise to the branched collecting duct system while the surrounding metanephric mesenchyme undergoes mesenchymal-epithelial transition to form the proximal parts of the nephron. These events are mediated by several soluble factors that act in a cooperative fashion either as pro or anti tubulogenic factors. Among the growing list of such molecules are the members of the FGF, TGF-β, and Wnt families as well as GDNF, HGF, and EGF. Cells respond to these soluble factors by initiating signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, cell migration and cell morphogenesis. These signaling pathways are also regulated in parallel by cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, leading to the complex events necessary for tubule formation. Recent in-vitro and in-vivo studies have begun to shed light on the overall regulation of this phenomenon while the specific subcellular mechanisms are only beginning to be understood. This review focuses on our understanding of the morphogenic responses that regulate in-vitro tubulogenesis and how they may help us to ultimately understand this process in vivo in the kidney.
Altered Metabolic Profiles among Older Mothers with a History of Preeclampsia
Authors: Innes Kim E. , Weitzel Lindsay , Laudenslager Mark
Published: March 2005

Preeclampsia has been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease and, more recently, to reduced risk for breast cancer later in life. The altered chronic disease risk associated with prior preeclampsia may reflect underlying metabolic differences. In this case-control study, we examined the metabolic profiles of older mothers with and without a history of preeclampsia in their first pregnancies. At the time of the study, subjects were non-pregnant, non-smoking women who completed their first pregnancies at age 30 or older, were pre-menopausal, and were free of serious chronic disease. Cases were 13 women who experienced preeclampsia in their first pregnancies; controls were 13 women with uncomplicated first pregnancies, frequency matched to cases on race/ethnicity, current age, and age at delivery. A fasting blood sample was collected from each subject during the luteal phase (day 19–22) of the menstrual cycle and assayed for specific factors thought to be linked to hypertensive disease or breast cancer. Compared to women with uncomplicated pregnancies, those with a history of preeclampsia had significantly elevated levels of fasting serum triglycerides, insulin and glucose, and a higher fasting insulin resistance index, suggesting that women with prior preeclampsia were relatively insulin resistant. In addition, cases had higher levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) and a higher molar ratio of IGFBP-3 to IGF-1 than did controls. Adjustment for obesity and other potential confounders did not appreciably alter the magnitude of these associations. This preliminary study suggests that women with a history of preeclampsia have persistent metabolic abnormalities consistent with their observed excess risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and their apparent reduced risk for breast cancer later in life.
Plasma Catecholamine Levels after Fluoxetine Treatment in Depressive Patients
Authors: Blardi Patrizia , de Lalla Arianna , Auteri Alberto , Iapichino Sonia , Dell’Erba Alice , Castrogiovanni Paolo
Published: March 2005

It is known that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, widely used as antidepressive drugs, act by inhibiting the cell reuptake of serotonin, but their effect on the catecholaminergic system is not yet completely understood. In this study, we investigated plasma concentrations of norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine after acute and chronic administration of fluoxetine in depressive patients. Twelve patients affected by major depression received a single oral dose of fluoxetine in the morning, 5 mg in the first 5 days, 10 mg from the 6th to the 10th day and 20 mg from the 11th to the 40th day. Twelve healthy subjects received a placebo under identical testing procedures. Blood samples were collected at baseline and 7, 10 and 24 h after drug administration on the 1st day of fluoxetine administration at a dose of 5 mg, and on the 1st and the 30th day of fluoxetine administration at a dose of 20 mg (days 11 and 40 of treatment, respectively). We found that plasma norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine levels significantly increased after acute and chronic treatment (p < 0.001), reaching the highest concentrations on the last day. No significant changes of these parameters were observed in control patients.
Season of Birth in Danish Children with Language Disorder Born in the 1958–1976 Period
Authors: Hauschild Karen-Marie , Mouridsen Svend Erik , Nielsen Søren
Published: March 2005

Two preliminary studies have indicated a variation in season of birth in severely language-disordered children. In the current study, the season of birth in 472 Danish children with language disorder born between 1958 and 1976 was compared with the season of birth of all Danish live-born children in the same period. For some part of the period (1964–1969), an excess of boys born in November was found. Particular attention was given to the inconsistent findings also found in language-related disorders like infantile autism and dyslexia and the choice of statistical method to determine seasonality.
Trends in Overweight, Obesity and Central Fat Accumulation among Tehranian Adults between 1998–1999 and 2001–2002: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Azizi Fereidoun , Azadbakht Leila , Mirmiran Parvin
Published: March 2005

Aims: Recent estimates show the prevalence of obesity to be increasing at alarming rates. This study was conducted to examine trends of prevalence in overweight, obesity and central fat accumulation among Tehranian adults between 1998 and 2002. Methods: Height and weight of 2,102 adults, aged 20–80 years, participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, were measured in 1998–1999 and remeasured in 2001–2002, after 3 years. Criteria used to state prevalence of overweight and obesity were body mass index (BMI) 25–29.9 and ≧30, respectively. Central fat accumulation was defined as waist-hip ratio (WHR) ≧0.8 in women and ≧0.9 in men. Individuals were divided into 10-year groups and the prevalence of obesity was compared according to sex and age. Results: In 1998–1999 and 2001–2002, mean BMI was 26.1 ± 4.1 and 26.7 ± 4.1 kg/m2 in men (p < 0.001) and 27.8 ± 4.9 and 28.7 ± 5.9 kg/m2 in women (p < 0.001), respectively. Mean WHR in women was 0.84 ± 0.08 in 1998–1999 and 0.88 ± 0.08 in 2001–2002 (p < 0.001). The prevalence of overweight in men was 42.5 and 46% and 40 and 39.5% in women in the two mentioned periods. The prevalence of obesity was 32.7 and 40.3% in men and 16.5 and 20.8% in women in 1998–1999 and 2001–2002 respectively. In both sexes the fastest increasing trends in obesity and central fat accumulation were seen in the 30- to 40- and 20- to 30-year-old age groups. Comparison of the 50th percentile of BMI in all age groups showed a significant increase in 2001–2002 as compared to 1998–1999 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The findings demonstrate significant rises in the prevalence of both total and central fat accumulation, calling for urgent action to educate people in lifestyle modifications.
Erythrocyte Plasma Membrane Perturbations in Rats Fed a Cholesterol-Rich Diet: Effect of Drinking Sulphurous Mineral Water
Authors: Nasuti Cinzia , Gabbianelli Rosita , Cantalamessa Franco , Falcioni Giancarlo
Published: March 2005

Aims: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the ability of calcic and magnesic-sulphate-sulphurous spring mineral water (SMW) to reduce total and erythrocyte plasma membrane cholesterol in rats fed a cholesterol-rich diet. Methods: By using different fluorescent probes, 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH), 1-[4-(trimethylamino)phenyl]-6-phenylhexa-1,3,5-triene (TMA-DPH) and Laurdan, a possible correlation was evaluated between cholesterol content changes of the membranes and membrane fluidity. Results: The results clearly show that hydropinic treatment reduced cholesterol level. No significant change was observed in DPH and TMA-DPH anisotropy values. By using Laurdan, an increase was observed in generalized polarization (GP340) in both groups of rats (the one that drank tap water and the one that drank SMW) compared with the controls. The rate of haemolysis was reduced in those erythrocyte suspensions in which cholesterol was increased, even if the enzymatic activity of glutathione peroxidase and catalase decreased. Conclusion: Hydropinic treatment with SMW is of interest from the biomedical point of view, because it could represent an alternative approach in interventions aimed at ameliorating biological injury deriving from hypercholesterolaemia.
Food and Nutrient Intake, Anthropometric Measurements and Smoking according to Alcohol Consumption in the EPIC Heidelberg Study
Authors: Ruf T. , Nagel G. , Altenburg H.-P. , Miller A.B. , Thorand B.
Published: March 2005

Aims: The study was carried out to determine associations of reported alcohol intake with dietary habits, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and smoking. Subjects and Methods: 24,894 subjects who participated in the baseline examination of the German part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) in Heidelberg and were between 35 and 65 years of age at baseline were included in the present cross-sectional analysis (11,617 men, 13,277 women). Diet and alcohol consumption were assessed with a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Analysis of covariance with age as a covariate was used to analyse the association between alcohol intake and dietary consumption patterns, BMI, WHR and smoking. Results: Alcohol did not replace other food items, but was an addition to the diet. Among alcohol consumers, fat and protein intake as a percentage of energy was slightly higher and carbohydrate intake was slightly lower than among abstainers. Alcohol consumers had a lower intake of fruits, dairy products, cereal products, and added vegetable fat and a higher intake of animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and added animal fat than abstainers. The prevalence of current smoking showed a U-shaped relation to alcohol intake in men and women. In men, a U-shaped association was also seen between the prevalence of former smoking and alcohol intake, while the prevalence of former smoking increased linearly with alcohol intake in women. Conclusion: The results show that alcohol consumption is associated with dietary consumption patterns and smoking. Therefore, it will be important to consider dietary patterns and other lifestyle parameters when investigating the health effects of alcohol intake in the future.
Serum Concentration of Vitamins A and E and Lipid in a Rural Population of North Cameroon
Authors: Gouado Inocent , Ejoh Richard Aba , Kenne Martin , Ndifor Fombotioh , Mbiapo Félicité Tchouanguep
Published: March 2005

Background: Vitamin A deficiency is still a major health problem mostly affecting people in developing countries. It contributes to increased mortality and morbidity through current infection. In Cameroon, it is a public health problem mostly in the northern part where palm oil, which is a principal source of provitamin A in the south of the country, is not consumed. Aim: We carried out this research to discover the relationship between vitamins (A and E) and blood lipids in a normal rural population living in vitamin A-deficiency area. Design: A cross-sectional study with 81 healthy volunteers (40 men and 41 women) aged 3–61 (mean 18.32 ± 1.63) years and living in two neighboring villages (Doyan and Larao) in the northern part of Cameroon, where previous studies revealed a prevalence of vitamin A deficiency of 33.3%. Methods: Serum concentrations of vitamins A and E were measured by fluorometric methods. Serum cholesterol and lipids were assayed by enzymatic methods. Results: The mean ± standard error for vitamin A and E were 15.09 ± 0.82; 526.99 ± 29.57 µg/100 ml, respectively. The concentrations of the serum parameters analyzed were similar for both sexes, whereas the atherogenic ration of cholesterol (ARC) was significantly (p < 0.036) higher in women. Serum lipids (total lipids, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein and phospholipids) correlated with vitamins A and E (p < 0.05). Vitamins A and E were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). Age was positively associated with vitamin A (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and vitamin E (r = 0.29, p < 0.01). Deficiency of vitamins A and E constitutes a public health problem with more than 56% of the subjects having low levels of these vitamins, while subjects tested had a low risk for cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: In this population we noticed normal lipid levels and vitamin A deficiency probably resulting from diets poor in provitamin A.
TEAVIGOTM (Epigallocatechin Gallate) Supplementation Prevents Obesity in Rodents by Reducing Adipose Tissue Mass
Authors: Wolfram Swen , Raederstorff Daniel , Wang Ying , Teixeira Sandra R. , Elste Volker , Weber Peter
Published: March 2005

Background: This study investigated the antiobesity effects of TEAVIGOTM, a product providing the most abundant green tea catechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), in a pure form. Two models of diet-induced obesity and an in vitro adipocyte differentiation assay were employed. Methods: Prevention and regression of diet-induced obesity by dietary supplementation with EGCG was studied in C57BL/6J mice and Sprague-Dawley rats, respectively. Expression of genes regulating lipid metabolism was assessed in adipose tissue. The effects of EGCG on adipocyte differentiation were investigated in vitro. Results: In C57BL/6J mice, EGCG supplementation prevented diet-induced increases in body weight and in fed state plasma levels of glucose, triglycerides, and leptin. EGCG decreased subcutaneous and epididymal adipose tissue weights. Supplementation of EGCG reversed the established obesity in Sprague-Dawley rats. Fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase-1 mRNA levels were markedly decreased in adipose tissue of EGCG-supplemented mice. EGCG dose dependently inhibited adipocyte differentiation in vitro. Conclusion: This study shows for the first time that supplementation with the most abundant green tea polyphenol, EGCG, abolishes diet-induced obesity. This effect is at least partly mediated via a direct influence on adipose tissue. Thus, dietary supplementation with EGCG should be considered as a valuable natural treatment option for obesity.
Effects of Estrogen on Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors in the Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Cardoso Camila C. , Pereira Renato T.S. , Koyama Cristiane A. , Porto Catarina S. , Abdalla Fernando M.F.
Published: March 2005

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether different estrogen manipulations have effects on the expression of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) in the adult female rat hippocampus. Hippocampus was obtained from rats in proestrus (control), ovariectomized for 2, 10 and 15 days, ovariectomized for 15 days and treated with 17β-estradiol for 7 days, and treated with 17β-estradiol immediately after ovariectomy for 21 days. Rats’ estrogen status was monitored by measuring estradiol plasma levels and uterus relative weight. [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]QNB) binding studies indicated that ovariectomy time-dependently increases the number of mAChRs in hippocampus when compared to those obtained from control rats. Estradiol treatments for 21 days avoid the effect of ovariectomy. However, the estradiol treatments for 7 days after 15 days of ovariectomy slightly change the number of mAChRs. In conclusion, these results showed that ovariectomy time-dependently increases mAChRs number in the rat hippocampus. In addition, these data suggest that treatment with estradiol initiated within a specific period of time after the loss of ovarian function may be effective at preventing specific effects of hormone deprivation on hippocampus.
Is Immunotherapy-Induced Birch-Pollen-Specific IgG4 a Marker for Decreased Allergen-Specific Sensitivity?
Authors: Bodtger U. , Ejrnaes A.M. , Hummelshoj L. , Jacobi H.H. , Poulsen L.K. , Svenson M.
Published: March 2005

Background: The role of IgG4 during allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) is still controversial. The available studies present paramount differences in in vitro techniques, allergens, and clinical outcome parameters. By implementing a sensitive method, and pivotal clinical outcome parameters, we wanted to ascertain the utility of IgG4 as a clinical marker of decreased allergen-specific sensitivity to a common aeroallergen. Methods: Sera were drawn from 23 birch-pollen-allergic patients during a placebo-controlled clinical trial on birch pollen SIT. Seventeen patients received active treatment. Blood samples were drawn at 0, 2, 4, 7, and 30 treatment weeks, and 36 months. The binding activity of autologous IgG, IgG4, IgE, and IgE- and/or IgG-depleted serum to 125I-labelled recombinant Bet v 1 was assessed in a fluid-phase radioimmunoassay. Disease severity was assessed subjectively on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and objectively by intradermal late-phase reaction diameters. Results: Before SIT IgG4 fraction of IgG-allergen binding varied from 4 to 74%, with a median of 36%, increasing to 71% after 36 months. Changes in IgG4 or IgG4/IgG fraction were not correlated to clinical outcome parameters. Changes in IgG allergen binding and VAS were significantly correlated (σ = 0.72; p < 0.05). SIT increased the serum-blocking activity of IgE allergen binding from 25% before SIT to 80% after SIT. No changes were observed in the placebo group. Conclusion: The data suggest that IgG4 per se is a poor marker of decreased allergen-specific sensitivity to birch pollen, both as a single measurement and as delta values.
Mouse Strain Specificity of the IgE Response to the Major Allergens of Phleum pratense
Authors: Seitzer Ulrike , Bussler Holm , Kullmann Birgit , Petersen Arnd , Becker Wolf-Meinhard , Ahmed Jabbar
Published: March 2005

Background: IgE immune responses against major allergens from Phleum pratense in low- and high-responder mouse strains were compared and the influence of alum was assessed, in order to evaluate the effect of the genetic background and adjuvants on IgE reactivity in a mouse model for P. pratense allergy. Methods: Different mouse strains and F1 offspring were sensitized with P. pratense pollen extract. Serum IgE levels, the induction of specific IgE antibodies and immediate cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions were monitored by ELISA, Western blot and a skin test, respectively. Results: All mouse strains investigated mounted an IgE response and exhibited a positive skin test to pollen extract. Differences were seen in the level of total serum IgE and in specific IgE reactivity to different major allergens of P. pratense. Notable differences were seen in IgE reactivity and immediate hypersensitivity against Phl p 1, which were only observed in SJL/j mice. The foremost influence of alum was on total IgE production levels. Conclusions: Alum is not necessary as an adjuvant to elicit IgE reactivity against the clinically relevant allergens of P. pratense, since even low-responder mouse strains mounted a hypersensitivity reaction after sensitization without the adjuvant using otherwise identical sensitization strategies. Moreover, when analyzing the allergenicity of a compound, the hypersensitivity response of different mouse strains should be considered, as implicated by the differential results obtained for IgE reactivity against Phl p 1. Lastly, a genetic component may be involved in IgE reactivity to Phl p 1.
Roles of NF-κB and Bcl-2 in Two Differential Modes of Cell Death of Mouse Cortical Collecting Duct Cells
Authors: Song J.M. , Lee R.H. , Jung J.S.
Published: March 2005

Recent data have implicated nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) and Bcl-2 in the regulation of apoptotic and necrotic cell death in various cells. However, mechanisms of their effects on cell death of renal epithelial cells are not clear. First, we investigated the effect of specific inhibition of NF-ĸB and overexpression of Bcl-2 on necrotic cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide or cisplatin in renal collecting duct cells. M-1 cells, which were derived from outer cortical collecting duct, were stably transfected with the non-phosphorylatable mutant of inhibitory-ĸBα (I-ĸBα) and Bcl-2. Overexpression of I-ĸBα and Bcl-2 did not affect cisplatin-induced necrotic cell death, but overexpression of I-ĸBα significantly decreased H2O2-induced cell death. Regarding apoptotic cell death induced by cisplatin, serum deprivation and contact inhibition was increased by overexpression of I-ĸBα, whereas overexpression of bcl-2 inhibited the apoptotic cell death. I-ĸBα overexpression increased Bax expression and decreased cIAP-1 and -2 expression compared to vector-transfected cells, but did not alter SAPK/JNK activity in the presence or absence of cisplatin. NF-ĸB activity was significantly higher in bcl-2-overexpressing cells than in control cells. These data show that activation of NF-ĸB mediates H2O2-induced necrotic injury, but inhibits apoptotic cell death in renal collecting duct cells, and that Bcl-2 selectively protects apoptotic cell death in M-1 cells.
Clustering of Allergic Outcomes within Families and Households in Areas Endemic for Helminth Infections
Authors: Wahyuni Sitti , Sartono Erliyani , Supali Taniawati , van der Zee Jaring S. , Mangali Andarias , van Ree Ronald , Houwing-Duistermaat Jeanine J. , Yazdanbakhsh Maria
Published: March 2005

Background: Allergy and helminth infections share key immunological features in terms of Th2 responses. Although in industrialized countries clustering of allergic disorders within families has been frequently reported, such information is lacking from areas where helminth infections are endemic. Methods: A total of 466 subjects from 29 families and 112 households participated in this study. Filarial infection, skin test reactivity and IgE to mite as well as total IgE were measured in all samples. Clustering of the allergy-related outcomes due to genetic and household factors was tested. Results: Genetic factors contributed significantly to the clustering of total IgE and allergen-specific IgE, whereas only household factors contributed to the clustering of SPT positivity. Conclusion: Similar to several studies conducted in western populations, total IgE and allergen-specific IgE are influenced by genetic factors in a population resident in a helminth endemic area. However, clustering of SPT positivity due to genetic factors was not significant in the current study raising the question of whether the presence of helminth infections may override genes that are associated with the expression of tissue reactivity to allergens in the west.
Diabetic Nephropathy: The Proteinuria Hypothesis
Authors: Williams Mark E.
Published: March 2005

Background/Aims: Proteinuria, nearly a universal finding in progressive kidney disease, has been the subject of frequent recent analyses in the renal literature. Proteinuria is a hallmark of diabetic nephropathy: microalbuminuria is the principal early predictor for progression of diabetic glomerulopathy, and proteinuria may be viewed as a measure of the severity and promoter of progression of nephropathy. Methods: This article critically reviews for the first time the full scope of diabetic proteinuria – complex molecular mechanisms, natural history, and analysis of treatment trials – in order to address the validity of ‘the proteinuria hypothesis’, i.e., that diabetic proteinuria is a modifiable determinant of renal progression. This hypothesis is analyzed in detail, including recent studies on the primary therapy of diabetic nephropathy, renin-angiotensin blockade. Results: As fully developed, this hypothesis consists of three postulates: that higher amounts of proteinuria predict progressive loss of function, that proteinuria reduction correlates with slowing progression, and that proteinuria is a surrogate endpoint for clinical trials. The latter postulate has not before been adequately linked to growing information about the first two postulates as they apply to diabetic kidney disease. Conclusion: While diabetic nephropathy is a disease model for the potential use of proteinuria as a surrogate marker for renal progression, this shift in perspective will require prospective data from additional clinical trials, particularly of non-renin-angiotensin blocking drugs, to be complete.
The Special Court for Sierra Leone: Challenging the Tradition of Impunity for Gender-based Crimes?
Authors: Damgaard Ciara
Published: March 2005

The focus of this article is the Special Court for Sierra Leone and the extent to which it can be said that the Special Court has already challenged, or will, in the future, challenge the tradition of impunity for gender-based crimes. In this regard, an analysis is undertaken of the Special Court's Statute, Rules of Procedure and Evidence and practice to date, in order to determine its treatment of gender-based crimes and whether it can be said that the Special Court for Sierra Leone challenges the tradition of impunity for gender-based crimes.