bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of urine pH changed by dietary intervention on uric acid clearance mechanism of pH-dependent excretion of urinary uric acid
Authors: Kanbara Aya , Miura Yoshisuke , Hyogo Hideyuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Seyama Issei
Published: June 2012

Background

The finding reported in a previous paper - alkalization of urine facilitates uric acid excretion - is contradictory to what one might expect to occur: because food materials for the alkalization of urine contain fewer purine bodies than those for acidification, less uric acid in alkaline urine should have been excreted than in acid urine. To make clear what component of uric acid excretion mechanisms is responsible for this unexpected finding, we simultaneously collected data for the concentration of both creatinine and uric acid in serum as well as in urine, in order to calculate both uric acid and creatinine clearances.

Methods

Within the framework of the Japanese government’s health promotion program, we made recipes which consisted of protein-rich and less vegetable-fruit food materials for H + -load (acidic diet) and others composed of less protein and more vegetable-fruit rich food materials (alkaline diet). This is a crossover study within some limitations. Healthy female students, who had no medical problems at the regular physical examination provided by the university, were enrolled in this consecutive 5-day study for each test. From whole-day collected urine, total volume, pH, organic acid, creatinine, uric acid, titratable acid and all cations (Na+,K+,Ca2+,Mg2+,NH4
+) and anions (Cl−,SO4
2−,PO4
−) necessary for the estimation of acid–base balance were measured. In the early morning before breakfast of the 1st, 3rd and 5th experimental day, we sampled 5 mL of blood to estimate the creatinine and uric acid concentration in serum.

Results and discussion

Urine pH reached a steady state 3 days after switching from ordinary daily diets to specified regimens. The amount of acid generated ([SO4
2−] + organic acid − gut alkali)was linearly related with the excretion of acid (titratable acid + [NH4
+] − [HCO3
−]), indicating that H + in urine is generated by the metabolic degradation of food materials. Uric acid and excreted urine pH retained a linear relationship, as reported previously. Among the five factors which are associated with calculating clearances for both uric acid and creatinine, we identified a conspicuous difference between acidic and alkaline diets in the uric acid concentration in serum as well as in urine; uric acid in the serum was higher in the acidic group than in the alkaline group, while uric acid in the urine in the acidic group was lower than that in the alkaline group. These changes of uric acid in acidic urine and in serum were reflected in the reduction of its clearance. From these observations, it is considered that uric acid may be reabsorbed more actively in acidic urine than in alkaline urine.

Conclusion

We conclude that alkalization of urine by eating nutritionally well-designed alkaline -prone food is effective for removing uric acid from the body.
Retinoic acid and liver X receptor agonist synergistically inhibit HIV infection in CD4+ T cells by up-regulating ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux
Authors: Jiang Hong , Badralmaa Yunden , Yang Jun , Lempicki Richard , Hazen Allison , Natarajan Ven
Published: June 2012

Background

Retinoic acids regulate the reverse cholesterol transport by inducing the ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) dependent cholesterol efflux in macrophages, neuronal as well as intestine cells. In the present study, we aim to test the effect of all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on ABCA1 expression in human CD4+ T cells and the involvement of cholesterol in ATRA mediated anti-HIV effect.

Results

Treatment with ATRA dramatically up-regulated ABCA1 expression in CD4+ T cells in a time and dose dependent manner. The expression of ABCA1 paralleled with increased ABCA1-dependent cholesterol efflux. This induction was dependent on T cell receptor (TCR) signaling and ATRA failed to induce ABCA1 expression in resting T cells. Moreover, ATRA and liver X receptor (LXR) agonist-TO-901317 together had synergistic effect on ABCA1 expression as well as cholesterol efflux. Increased ABCA1 expression was associated with lower cellular cholesterol staining. Cells treated with either ATRA or TO-901317 were less vulnerable to HIV-1 infection. Combination of retinoic acid and TO-901317 further inhibited HIV-1 entry and their inhibitory effects could be reversed by cholesterol replenishment.

Methods

ABCA1 RNA and protein were determined by real-time PCR and immuno blot methods in cells treated with ATRA. Cholesterol efflux rate was measured in cells treated with ATRA and TO-901317.

Conclusions

ATRA up-regulates ABCA1 expression and cholesterol efflux in CD4+ T cells and combination of ATRA and liver X receptor ( LXR) agonist further enhanced these effects. Increased cholesterol efflux contributed to reduced HIV-1 entry, suggesting that anti-HIV effect of ATRA is mediated through ABCA1.
Short term effects of different omega-3 fatty acid formulation on lipid metabolism in mice fed high or low fat diet
Authors: Tang Xiao , Li Zhao-Jie , Xu Jie , Xue Yong , Li Jin-Zhang , Wang Jing-Feng , Yanagita Teruyoshi , Xue Chang-Hu , Wang Yu-Ming
Published: June 2012

Background

Bioactivities of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) depend on their chemical forms. The present study was to investigate short term effects of triglyceride (TG), ethyl ester (EE), free fatty acid (FFA) and phospholipid (PL) forms of omega-3 fatty acid (FA) on lipid metabolism in mice, fed high fat or low fat diet.

Method

Male Balb/c mice were fed with 0.7% different Omega-3 fatty acid formulation: DHA bound free fatty acid (DHA-FFA), DHA bound triglyceride (DHA-TG), DHA bound ethyl ester (DHA-EE) and DHA bound phospholipid (DHA-PL) for 1 week, with dietary fat levels at 5% and 22.5%. Serum and hepatic lipid concentrations were analyzed, as well as the fatty acid composition of liver and brain.

Result

At low fat level, serum total cholesterol (TC) level in mice fed diets with DHA-FFA, DHA-EE and DHA-PL were significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Hepatic TG level decreased significantly in mice fed diets with DHA-TG (P < 0.05), DHA-EE (P < 0.05) and DHA-PL (P < 0.05), while TC level in liver was significantly lower in mice fed diets with TG and EE compared with the control group (P < 0.05). At high fat level, mice fed diets with DHA-EE and DHA-PL had significantly lower hepatic TC level compared with the control diet (P < 0.05). Hepatic PL concentration experienced a significant increase in mice fed the diet with PL at high fat level (P < 0.05). Furthermore, both at low and high fat levels, hepatic DHA level significantly increased and AA level significantly decreased in all forms of DHA groups (P < 0.05), compared to control groups at two different fat levels, respectively. Additionally, cerebral DHA level in mice fed diets with DHA-FFA, DHA-EE and DHA-PL significantly increased compared with the control at high fat level (P < 0.05), but no significant differences were observed among dietary treatments for mice fed diets with low fat level.

Conclusion

The present study suggested that not only total dietary fat content but also the molecular forms of omega-3 fatty acids contributed to lipid metabolism in mice. DHA-PL showed effective bioactivity in decreasing hepatic and serum TC, TG levels and increasing omega-3 concentration in liver and brain.
Influence of Zeolite on fatty acid composition and egg quality in Tunisian Laying Hens
Authors: Fendri Imen , Khannous Lamia , Mallek Zouhir , Traore Al Ibrahim , Gharsallah Néji , Gdoura Radhouane
Published: June 2012

Background

The health benefits of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are generally recognized. Unfortunately, in most Mediterranean countries, the recommended daily intake of these compounds is rarely met. Therefore, enrichment of commonly occurring foods can boost intake of these fatty acids. In this regard, eggs are an interesting target, as they form an integral part of the diet.

Result

Zeolite (Clinoptilolites) was added to Laying Hens feed at concentrations 1% or 2% and was evaluated for its effects on performance of the production and on egg quality. The Laying Hens were given access to 110 g of feed mixtures daily that was either a basal diet or a ‘zeolite diet’ (the basal diet supplemented with clinoptilolite at a level of 1% or 2%). It was found that zeolite treatment had a positive and significatif (p < 0.05) effect on some parameters that were measured like egg height and eggshell strength. While dietary zeolite supplementation tended to/or has no significant effects on total egg, eggshell, yolk and albumen weights. It was found also that zeolite mainly increases level of polyunsaturated fatty acids in egg.

Conclusion

This study showed the significance of using zeolite, as a feed additive for Laying Hens, as part of a comprehensive program to control egg quality and to increase level of polyunsaturated fatty acids on egg.
Comparative proteomics between natural Microcystis isolates with a focus on microcystin synthesis
Authors: Tonietto Ângela , Petriz Bernardo A , Araújo Wérika C , Mehta Ângela , Magalhães Beatriz S , Franco Octávio L
Published: June 2012

Background

Microcystis aeruginosa is a species of cyanobacteria commonly found in a number of countries and frequently related to animal poisoning episodes due to its capacity to produce the cyanotoxin known as microcystin. Despite vast literature on microcystin structures and their deleterious effects, little is known about its synthesis by cyanobacteria. Therefore, this study used proteomic tools to compare two M. aeruginosa strains, contrasting them for microcystin production.

Results

2-DE gels were performed and 30 differential protein spots were chosen. Among them, 11 protein spots were unique in the toxin producing strain and 8 in the non-toxin producing strain, and 14 protein spots were shown on both 2-DE gels but expressed differently in intensity. Around 57% of the tandem mass spectrometry identified proteins were related to energy metabolism, with these proteins being up-regulated in the toxin producing strain.

Conclusions

These data suggest that the presence of higher quantities of metabolic enzymes could be related to microcystin metabolism in comparison to the non-toxin producing strain. Moreover, it was suggested that the production of microcystin could also be related to other proteins than those directly involved in its production, such as the enzymes involved in the Calvin cycle and glycolysis.
QLiS – development of a schizophrenia-specific quality-of-life scale
Authors: Franz Michael , Fritz Michael , Gallhofer Bernd , Meyer Thorsten
Published: June 2012

Background

The aim of the project was to develop an instrument for the assessment of subjective quality of life specific to schizophrenic persons on the basis of patients’ views on their own life and on sound psychometric principles.

Methods

The project applied a six-step multiphase development process with six distinct studies. (1) The elicitation of schizophrenic persons’ views on their quality of life was based on open-ended interviews with interviewees from different settings (acute ward inpatients, long-term care patients, community care patients; n = 268). (2) A cross-sectional study with schizophrenic and healthy persons was conducted to quantify the relative importance of the various aspect of quality of life that emerged from the qualitative study (n = 143). (3) We conducted an empirical comparison of response formats with schizophrenic persons (n = 32). (4) A scale construction- and reliability-testing study was performed (n = 203) as well as (5) a test-retest reliability study (n = 49). (6) The final questionnaire (QLiS, quality of life in schizophrenia) was tested in an additional study on convergent and discriminant validity (n = 135).

Results

The QLiS comprises 52 items (plus 2 optional items related to work) in 12 subscales: social contacts, appreciation by others, relationship to family, appraisal of pharmacotherapy, appraisal of psychopathological symptoms, cognitive functioning, abilities to manage daily living, appraisal of accommodation/housing, financial situation, leading a ’normal‘ life, confidence, general life-satisfaction. An item response format with four response categories was preferred by the schizophrenic persons. The mean values of the subscales clustered around the theoretical mean of the subscales and only minimal ceiling effects were found. The reliability (test-retest-reliability and internal consistency) was with one exception > .70 for all subscales.

Conclusion

Taking the low numbers of items per subscale into account, the QLiS can be regarded as an accurate assessment instrument of subjective quality of life in schizophrenia with good content validity.
Developing a new self-reported scale of oral health outcomes for 5-year-old children (SOHO-5)
Authors: Tsakos Georgios , Blair Yvonne I , Yusuf Huda , Wright William , Watt Richard G , Macpherson Lorna M D
Published: June 2012

Background

Information on the impact of oral health on quality of life of children younger than 8 years is mostly based on parental reports, as methodological and conceptual challenges have hindered the development of relevant validated self-reported measures. This study aimed to develop and assess the reliability and validity of a new self-reported oral health related quality of life measure, the Scale of Oral Health Outcomes for 5-year-old children (SOHO-5), in the UK.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of two phases. First, consultation focus groups (CFGs) with parents of 5-year-olds and review by experts informed the development of the SOHO-5 questionnaire. The second phase assessed its reliability and validity on a sample of grade 1 (5-year-old) primary schoolchildren in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area, Scotland. Data were linked to available clinical oral health information and analysis involved associations of SOHO-5 with subjective and clinical outcomes.

Results

CFGs identified eating, drinking, appearance, sleeping, smiling, and socialising as the key oral impacts at this age. 332 children participated in the main study and for 296 (55% girls, mean d3mft: 1.3) clinical data were available. Overall, 49.0% reported at least one oral impact on their daily life. The most prevalent impacts were difficulty eating (28.7%), difficulty sleeping (18.5%), avoiding smiling due to toothache (14.9%) and avoiding smiling due to appearance (12.5%). The questionnaire was quick to administer, with very good comprehension levels. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.74 and item-total correlation coefficients ranged between 0.30 and 0.60, demonstrating the internal consistency of the new measure. For validity, SOHO-5 scores were significantly associated with different subjective oral health outcomes (current toothache, toothache lifetime experience, satisfaction with teeth, presence of oral cavities) and an aggregate measure of clinical and subjective oral health outcomes. The new measure also discriminated between different clinical groups in relation to active caries, pulp involvement, and dental sepsis.

Conclusions

This is the first study to develop and validate a self-reported oral health related quality of life measure for 5-year-old children. Initial reliability and validity findings were very satisfactory. SOHO-5 can be a useful tool in clinical studies and public health programs.
Right Kocher’s incision: a feasible and effective incision for right hemicolectomy: a retrospective study
Authors: Theodosopoulos Theodosios , Yiallourou Anneza I , Dafnios Nicolaos , Polymeneas George , Papaconstantinou Ioannis , Staikou Chrysoula , Vassiliou Ioannis , Smyrniotis Vassilis , Fotopoulos Alexios
Published: June 2012

Background

The choice of surgical incision is determined by access to the surgical field, particularly when an oncological resection is required. Special consideration is also given to other factors, such as postoperative pain and its sequelae, fewer complications in the early postoperative period and a lower occurrence of incisional hernias. The purpose of this study is to compare the right Kocher’s and the midline incision, for patients undergoing right hemicolectomy, by focusing on short- and longterm results.

Methods

Between 1995 and 2009, hospital records for 213 patients that had undergone a right hemicolectomy for a right- sided adenocarcinoma were retrospectively studied. 113 patients had been operated via a Kocher’s and 100 via a midline incision. Demographic details, operative data (explorative access to the peritoneal cavity, time of operation), recovery parameters (time with IV analgesic medication, time to first oral fluid intake, time to first solid meal, time to discharge), and oncological parameters (lymph node harvest, TNM stage and resection margins) were analyzed. Postoperative complications were also recorded. The two groups were retrospectively well matched with respect to demographic parameters and oncological status of the tumor.

Results

The median length of the midline incision was slightly longer (12 vs. 10 cm, p < 0.05). The duration of the surgery for the Kocher’s incision group was significantly shorter (median time 70 vs 85 min, p < 0.001). In three patients we performed wedge resection of liver metastasis and in one patient we performed a typical right hepatectomy that lasted 190 min. No major operative complications were noted. There was no immediate or 30- day postoperative mortality. The Kocher’s incision group had a significantly shorter hospital stay (median time 5 vs 8 days). All patients underwent wide tumor excision and clear resection margins were obtained in all cases. No significant difference was noted regarding analgesia requirements and early postoperative complications. Late postoperative complications included 2 incisional hernias and three patients presented with one episode of obstructive ileus, that resolved conservatively.

Conclusions

The Kocher’s incision approach for right- sided colon cancer is technically feasible, safe and overall very well tolerated. It can achieve the same standards of tumor resection and surgical field accessibility as the midline approach, while reducing postoperative recovery.
Preparation and characterization of silk fibroin as a biomaterial with potential for drug delivery
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Ling-ling , Dai Fang-yin , Zhang Hao-hao , Ni Bing , Zhou Wei , Yang Xia , Wu Yu-zhang
Published: June 2012

Background

Degummed silk fibroin from Bombyx mori (silkworm) has potential carrier capabilities for drug delivery in humans; however, the processing methods have yet to be comparatively analyzed to determine the differential effects on the silk protein properties, including crystalline structure and activity.

Methods

In this study, we treated degummed silk with four kinds of calcium-alcohol solutions, and performed secondary structure measurements and enzyme activity test to distinguish the differences between the regenerated fibroins and degummed silk fibroin.

Results

Gel electrophoresis analysis revealed that Ca(NO3)2-methanol, Ca(NO3)2-ethanol, or CaCl2-methanol treatments produced more lower molecular weights of silk fibroin than CaCl2-ethanol. X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed that CaCl2-ethanol produced a crystalline structure with more silk I (α-form, type II β-turn), while the other treatments produced more silk II (β-form, anti-parallel β-pleated sheet). Solid-State 13C cross polarization and magic angle spinning-nuclear magnetic resonance measurements suggested that regenerated fibroins from CaCl2-ethanol were nearly identical to degummed silk fibroin, while the other treatments produced fibroins with significantly different chemical shifts. Finally, enzyme activity test indicated that silk fibroins from CaCl2-ethanol had higher activity when linked to a known chemotherapeutic drug, L-asparaginase, than the fibroins from other treatments.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results suggest that the CaCl2-ethanol processing method produces silk fibroin with biomaterial properties that are appropriate for drug delivery.
Pyrene-POSS nanohybrid as a dispersant for carbon nanotubes in solvents of various polarities: its synthesis and application in the preparation of a composite membrane
Authors: Majeed Shahid , Filiz Volkan , Shishatskiy Sergey , Wind Jan , Abetz Clarissa , Abetz Volker
Published: June 2012

In this study we report the preparation of nanohybrid dispersant molecules based on pyrene and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes for non-covalent functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The prepared dispersant improves the dispersion of MWCNTs in organic solvents with very different polarities such as tetrahydrofuran, toluene, and n-hexane. The functionalized MWCNTs were used to introduce conductivity into polydimethylsiloxane membranes which can be used for electrostatic discharge applications.
A reduced-complexity scheme using message passing for location tracking
Authors: Chiou Yih-Shyh , Tsai Fuan , Wang Chin-Liang , Huang Chin-Tseng
Published: June 2012

This article presents a low-complexity and high-accuracy algorithm using message-passing approach to reduce the computational load of the traditional tracking algorithm for location estimation. In the proposed tracking scheme, a state space model for the location-estimation problem can be divided into many mutual-interaction local constraints based on the inherent message-passing features of factor graphs. During each iteration cycle, the message with reliability information is passed efficiently with an adaptive weighted technique and the error propagation law, and then the message-passing approach based on prediction-correction recursion is to simplify the implementation of the Bayesian filtering approach for location-estimation and tracking systems. As compared with a traditional tracking scheme based on Kalman filtering (KF) algorithms derived from Bayesian dynamic model, the analytic result and the numerical simulations show that the proposed forward and one-step backward tracking approach not only can achieve an accurate location very close to the traditional KF tracking scheme, but also has a lower computational complexity.
Heterogeneous virulence of pandemic 2009 influenza H1N1 virus in mice
Authors: Farooqui Amber , Leon Alberto J , Lei Yanchang , Wang Pusheng , Huang Jianyun , Tenorio Raquel , Dong Wei , Rubino Salvatore , Lin Jie , Li Guishuang , Zhao Zhen , Kelvin David J
Published: June 2012

Background

Understanding the pathogenesis of influenza infection is a key factor leading to the prevention and control of future outbreaks. Pandemic 2009 Influenza H1N1 infection, although frequently mild, led to a severe and fatal form of disease in certain cases that make its virulence nature debatable. Much effort has been made toward explaining the determinants of disease severity; however, no absolute reason has been established.

Results

This study presents the heterogeneous virulence of clinically similar strains of pandemic 2009 influenza virus in human alveolar adenocarcinoma cells and mice. The viruses were obtained from patients who were admitted in a local hospital in China with a similar course of infection and recovered. The A/Nanchang/8002/2009 and A/Nanchang/8011/2009 viruses showed efficient replication and high lethality in mice while infection with A/Nanchang/8008/2009 was not lethal with impaired viral replication, minimal pathology and modest proinflammatory activity in lungs. Sequence analysis displayed prominent differences between polymerase subunits (PB2 and PA) of viral genomes that might correlate with their different phenotypic behavior.

Conclusions

The study confirms that biological heterogeneity, linked with the extent of viral replication, exists among pandemic H1N1 strains that may serve as a benchmark for future investigations on influenza pathogenesis.
Assessment of adherence to the CONSORT statement for quality of reports on randomized controlled trial abstracts from four high-impact general medical journals
Authors: Ghimire Saurav , Kyung Eunjung , Kang Wonku , Kim Eunyoung
Published: June 2012

Background

The extended Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) Statement for Abstracts was developed to improve the quality of reports of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) because readers often base their assessment of a trial solely on the abstract. To date, few data exist regarding whether it has achieved this goal. We evaluated the extent of adherence to the CONSORT for Abstract statement for quality of reports on RCT abstracts by four high-impact general medical journals.

Methods

A descriptive analysis of published RCT abstracts in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), The Lancet, The Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA), and the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in the year 2010 was conducted by two reviewers, independently extracting data from a MEDLINE/PubMed search.

Results

We identified 271 potential RCT abstracts meeting our inclusion criteria. More than half of the abstracts identified the study as randomized in the title (58.7%; 159/271), reported the specific objective/hypothesis (72.7%; 197/271), described participant eligibility criteria with settings for data collection (60.9%; 165/271), detailed the interventions for both groups (90.8%; 246/271), and clearly defined the primary outcome (94.8%; 257/271). However, the methodological quality domains were inadequately reported: allocation concealment (11.8%; 32/271) and details of blinding (21.0%; 57/271). Reporting the primary outcome results for each group was done in 84.1% (228/271). Almost all of the abstracts reported trial registration (99.3%; 269/271), whereas reports of funding and of harm or side effects from the interventions were found in only 47.6% (129/271) and 42.8% (116/271) of the abstracts, respectively.

Conclusions

These findings show inconsistencies and non-adherence to the CONSORT for abstract guidelines, especially in the methodological quality domains. Improvements in the quality of RCT reports can be expected by adhering to existing standards and guidelines as expressed by the CONSORT group.
Ileocolic intussusception due to a cecal endometriosis: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Emmanuel Rivkine , Léa Marciano , Claude Polliand , Antonio Valenti , Marianne Ziol , Christophe Poncelet , Christophe Barrat
Published: June 2012

Cecal endometriosis and ileocolic intussusception due to a cecal endometriosis is extremely rare. We report a case of a woman who presented an ileocecal intussusception due to a cecal endometriosis. The patient gave two months history of chronic periombilical pain requiring regular hospital admission and analgesia. The symptoms were not related to menses. A laparotomy was performed and revealed an ileocolic intussusception. The abdominal exploration did not find any endometriosis lesion. Ileocaecal resection was performed. Microscopic examination showed a cystic component, lined by a regular cylindric epithelium. Foci of endometrial tissu were oberved in the cecal subserosa and muscularis mucosal, with irregular endometrial glands lined by cylindric epithelium without atypia immunostained with CK7, and characteristic endometrial stroma immunostained with CD10. Cecal endometriosis and ileocolic intussusception due to a cecal endometriosis is extremely rare. Diagnose of etiology remains challenging due to the absence of clinical and radiological specific characteristics.

Virtual slide

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/2975867306869166
A cross-sectional single-centre study on the spectrum of Pompe disease, German patients: molecular analysis of the GAA gene, manifestation and genotype-phenotype correlations
Authors: Herzog Andreas , Hartung Ralf , Reuser Arnold J J , Hermanns Pia , Runz Heiko , Karabul Nesrin , Gökce Seyfullah , Pohlenz Joachim , Kampmann Christoph , Lampe Christina , Beck Michael , Mengel Eugen
Published: June 2012

Background

Pompe disease (Glycogen storage disease type II, GSD II, acid alpha-glucosidase deficiency, acid maltase deficiency, OMIM # 232300) is an autosomal-recessive lysosomal storage disorder due to a deficiency of acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA, acid maltase, EC 3.2.1.20, Swiss-Prot P10253). Clinical manifestations are dominated by progressive weakness of skeletal muscle throughout the clinical spectrum. In addition, the classic infantile form is characterised by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Methods

In a cross-sectional single-centre study we clinically assessed 3 patients with classic infantile Pompe disease and 39 patients with non-classic presentations, measured their acid alpha-glucosidase activities and analysed their GAA genes.

Results

Classic infantile patients had nearly absent residual enzyme activities and a typical clinical course with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy until the beginning of therapy. The disease manifestations in non-classic patients were heterogeneous. There was a broad variability in the decline of locomotive and respiratory function. The age of onset ranged from birth to late adulthood and correlated with enzyme activities. Molecular analysis revealed as many as 33 different mutations, 14 of which are novel. All classic infantile patients had two severe mutations. The most common mutation in the non-classic group was c.-32-13 T > G. It was associated with a milder course in this subgroup.

Conclusions

Disease manifestation strongly correlates with the nature of the GAA mutations, while the variable progression in non-classic Pompe disease is likely to be explained by yet unknown modifying factors. This study provides the first comprehensive dataset on the clinical course and the mutational spectrum of Pompe disease in Germany.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of the rectum with scapular metastasis: a case report
Authors: Selcukbiricik Fatih , Tural Deniz , Ozturk Mehmet Akif , Dervisoglu Sergulen , Sager Sait , Hız Murat , Mandel Nil Molinas
Published: June 2012

Introduction

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare tumors. They commonly metastasize within the abdominal cavity, particularly to the liver. Less commonly, metastases can be found in the bone.

Case presentation

We here present a case of metastasis to the scapula in a 54-year-old Caucasian male patient with an advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor, which was subsequently successfully treated with resection and sunitinib.

Conclusion

The present study is, to the best of our knowledge, the second to describe scapular metastasis of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Our patient was treated by scapulectomy. The overwhelming majority of scapular tumors are metastases that arise from soft tissue, hepatocellular and thyroid tumors. Gastrointestinal stromal tumor metastasis occurs rarely. Scapular surgery can successfully provide local control of the disease. After the surgery, patients should continue with medical treatment.
Reasons physicians do not recommend and patients refuse adjuvant chemotherapy for stage III colon cancer: a population based chart review
Authors: El Shayeb Mohamed , Scarfe Andrew , Yasui Yutaka , Winget Marcy
Published: June 2012

Background

Surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy has been the standard of care for the treatment of stage III colon cancer since the early 1990’s. Despite this, large proportions of patients do not receive adjuvant chemotherapy. We aimed to identify physicians’ and patients’ reasons for treatment decisions.

Methods

A retrospective population based study was conducted that included all surgically treated stage III colon cancer patients diagnosed in Alberta between 2002 and 2005 who had an oncologist-consult to discuss post-surgical treatment options. Patient demographics and stage were obtained from the Alberta Cancer Registry. Chart reviews were conducted to extract treatment details, the oncologists’ reasons for not recommending chemotherapy, and patients’ reasons for refusing chemotherapy. The number and proportion of patients who were not recommended or refused chemotherapy were calculated.

Results

A total of 613 patients had surgery followed by an oncologist-consult. Overall, 168 (27%) patients did not receive chemotherapy. It was not recommended for 111 (18%) patients; the most frequent reason was presence of one or more co-morbidities (34%) or combination of co-morbidity and age or frailty (22%). Fifty-eight (9%) patients declined chemotherapy, 22% of whom declined due to concerns about toxicity.

Conclusion

Some co-morbidities are clinical indications for not receiving adjuvant chemotherapy, however, the high percentage of patients who were not recommended adjuvant chemotherapy due to co-morbidities according to clinical notes but who had a low Charlson co-morbidity score suggests variation in practice patterns of consulting oncologists. In addition, patients’ reasons for refusing treatment need to be systematically assessed to ensure patients’ preferences and treatment benefits are properly weighed when making treatment decisions.
First report of Toxoplasma gondii infection in market-sold adult chickens, ducks and pigeons in northwest China
Authors: Cong Wei , Huang Si-Yang , Zhou Dong-Hui , Xu Min-Jun , Wu Song-Ming , Yan Chao , Zhao Quan , Song Hui-Qun , Zhu Xing-Quan
Published: June 2012

Background

Toxoplasma gondiiinfection is a global concern, affecting a wide range of warm-blooded animals and humans worldwide, including poultry. Domestic and companion birds are considered to play an important role in the transmission ofT. gondiito humans and other animals. However, little information onT. gondiiinfection in domestic birds in Lanzhou, northwest China was available. Therefore, this study was performed to determine the seroprevalence ofT. gondiiinfection in domestic birds in Lanzhou, northwest China.

Methods

In the present study, the seroprevalence ofT. gondiiantibodies in 413 (305 caged and 108 free-range) adult chickens, 334 (111 caged and 223 free-range) adult ducks and 312 adult pigeons in Lanzhou, northwest China, were examined using the modified agglutination test (MAT).

Results

30 (7.26%) chickens, 38 (11.38%) ducks and 37 (11.86%) pigeons were found to be positive forT. gondiiantibodies at the cut-off of 1:5. The prevalences in caged and free-range chickens were 6.23% and 10.19% respectively, however, statistical analysis showed that the difference was not significant (P > 0.05). The seroprevalences in caged and free-range ducks were 6.31% and 13.90% respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of the present survey indicated the presence ofT. gondiiinfection in adult chickens, ducks and pigeons sold for meat in poultry markets in Lanzhou, northwest China, which poses a potential risk forT. gondiiinfection in humans and other animals in this region. This is the first seroprevalence study ofT. gondiiinfection in domestic birds in this region.
The role of Src kinase in the biology and pathogenesis of Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah , Iqbal Junaid , Maugueret Marie-josée , Khan Naveed Ahmed
Published: June 2012

Background

Acanthamoebaspecies are the causative agents of fatal granulomatous encephalitis in humans. Haematogenous spread is thought to be a primary step, followed by blood–brain barrier penetration, in the transmission ofAcanthmaoebainto the central nervous system, but the associated molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the role of Src, a non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase in the biology and pathogenesis ofAcanthamoeba.

Methods

Amoebistatic and amoebicidal assays were performed by incubating amoeba in the presence of Src kinase-selective inhibitor, PP2 (4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine) and its inactive analog, PP3 (4-amino-7-phenylpyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine). Using this inhibitor, the role of Src kinase inA. castellaniiinteractions withEscherichia coliwas determined. Zymographic assays were performed to study effects of Src kinase on extracellular proteolytic activities ofA. castellanii. The human brain microvascular endothelial cells were used to determine the effects of Src kinase onA. castellaniiadhesion to and cytotoxicity of host cells.

Results

Inhibition of Src kinase using a specific inhibitor, PP2 (4-amino-5-(4 chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo [3,4-d] pyrimidine) but not its inactive analog, PP3 (4-amino-7-phenylpyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimidine), had detrimental effects on the growth ofA. castellanii(keratitis isolate, belonging to the T4 genotype). Interestingly, inhibition of Src kinase hampered the phagocytic ability ofA. castellanii, as measured by the uptake of non-invasive bacteria, but, on the contrary, invasion by pathogenic bacteria was enhanced. Zymographic assays revealed that inhibition of Src kinases reduced extracellular protease activities ofA. castellanii. Src kinase inhibition had no significant effect onA. castellaniibinding to and cytotoxicity of primary human brain microvascular endothelial cells, which constitute the blood–brain barrier.

Conclusions

For the first time, these findings demonstrated that Src kinase is involved inA. castellaniiproliferation, protease secretions and phagocytic properties. Conversely, invasion ofAcanthamoebaby pathogenic bacteria was stimulated by Src kinase inhibition.
Properties and usefulness of aggregates of synovial mesenchymal stem cells as a source for cartilage regeneration
Authors: Suzuki Shiro , Muneta Takeshi , Tsuji Kunikazu , Ichinose Shizuko , Makino Hatsune , Umezawa Akihiro , Sekiya Ichiro
Published: June 2012

Introduction

Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from synovium is a promising therapy for cartilage regeneration. For clinical application, improvement of handling operation, enhancement of chondrogenic potential, and increase of MSCs adhesion efficiency are needed to achieve a more successful cartilage regeneration with a limited number of MSCs without scaffold. The use of aggregated MSCs may be one of the solutions. Here, we investigated the handling, properties and effectiveness of aggregated MSCs for cartilage regeneration.

Methods

Human and rabbit synovial MSCs were aggregated using the hanging drop technique. The gene expression changes after aggregation of synovial MSCs were analyzed by microarray and real time RT-PCR analyses. In vitro and in vivo chondrogenic potential of aggregates of synovial MSCs was examined.

Results

Aggregates of MSCs cultured for three days became visible, approximately 1 mm in diameter and solid and durable by manipulation; most of the cells were viable. Microarray analysis revealed up-regulation of chondrogenesis-related, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic genes in aggregates of MSCs. In vitro studies showed higher amounts of cartilage matrix synthesis in pellets derived from aggregates of MSCs compared to pellets derived from MSCs cultured in a monolayer. In in vivo studies in rabbits, aggregates of MSCs could adhere promptly on the osteochondral defects by surface tension, and stay without any loss. Transplantation of aggregates of MSCs at relatively low density achieved successful cartilage regeneration. Contrary to our expectation, transplantation of aggregates of MSCs at high density failed to regenerate cartilage due to cell death and nutrient deprivation of aggregates of MSCs.

Conclusions

Aggregated synovial MSCs were a useful source for cartilage regeneration considering such factors as easy preparation, higher chondrogenic potential and efficient attachment.
Viral dsRNA-activated human dendritic cells produce IL-27, which selectively promotes cytotoxicity in naïve CD8+ T cells
Authors: de Groot Rosa , van Beelen Astrid J , Bakdash Ghaith , Taanman-Kueter Esther W M , de Jong Esther C , Kapsenberg Martien L
Published: June 2012

Upon viral stimulation, human BDCA1+ dendritic cells produce IL-12 to promote inflammatory cytokines, and IL-27 to enhance cytotoxic responses in developing effector CD8+ T cells.

Viral recognition programs DCs to express Signal 3 molecules that promote the differentiation of effector CD8+ T cells. Besides IL-12, another DC-derived IL-12 family member, IL-27, has been reported to contribute herein, but its specific role is not well understood. Here, we show that whereas IL-12 potently induces inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IFN-γ and TNF-α, but not IL-2), IL-27 excels in inducing proliferation and a cytotoxic profile (GrB, cytotoxicity of target cells) in human naïve CD8+ T cells. Compared with bacterial cell-wall peptidoglycan, viral dsRNA-mimic poly (I:C) is superior in priming human BDCA1+ peripheral blood DCs to produce IL-12 and IL-27, which promote inflammatory cytokines and a cytotoxic profile in differentiating CD8+ T cells, respectively. These data support the concept that viral dsRNA-activated human DCs produce IL-27 to act as a specialized procytotoxic, antiviral cytokine in the development of effector CD8+ T cells.
Integrated data analysis for mineral exploration: A case study of clustering satellite imagery, airborne gamma-ray, and regional geochemical data suites
Authors: Eberle Detlef G. , Paasche Hendrik
Published: June 2012

Partitioning cluster algorithms have proven to be powerful tools for data-driven integration of large geoscientific databases. We used fuzzy Gustafson-Kessel cluster analysis to integrate Landsat imagery, airborne radiometric, and regional geochemical data to aid in the interpretation of a multimethod database. The survey area extends over [Formula: see text] and is located in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. We carefully selected five variables for cluster analysis to avoid the clustering results being dominated by spatially high-correlated data sets that were present in our database. Unlike other, more popular cluster algorithms, such as k-means or fuzzy c-means, the Gustafson-Kessel algorithm requires no preclustering data processing, such as scaling or adjustment of histographic data distributions. The outcome of cluster analysis was a classified map that delineates prominent near-to-surface structures. To add value to the classified map, we compared the detected structures to mapped geology and additional geophysical ground-truthing data. We were able to associate the structures detected by cluster analysis to geophysical and geological information thus obtaining a pseudolithology map. The latter outlined an area with increased mineral potential where manganese mineralization, i.e., psilomelane, had been located.
Viabilities of seismic ray impedance and elastic impedance for hydrocarbon-sand discrimination
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wang Yanghua , Li Xiang-Yang
Published: June 2012

Theoretical evaluation of the elastic impedance (EI) and the ray impedance (RI) reveals that RI has a more reliable value range and is less sensitive to noise than EI. We devised a new measurement [Formula: see text] to estimate the ray impedance from elastic impedance derived by existing techniques. The recovered [Formula: see text] was expressed in the form of a normalization of EI. It solved the range variability problem of EI and had the same interpretation capability as RI. In addition, reflection coefficients represented by [Formula: see text] showed good agreement with the Zeoppritz equation even at postcritical angle of incidence. Tests of these three attributes (RI, [Formula: see text], and EI) were performed on the log data of three different types of reservoir: a typical Class III marine gas-sand, a Class I tight gas-sand, and a Class II oil-bearing sand in thin sand-mud interbedded layers. Although the crossplots of EI against acoustic impedance (AI) showed visually similar characteristics for a gas-sand as that of RI, based on the linear/quadratic discrimination analysis, RI appeared to be more applicable than EI for characterizing gas sands, especially tight gas sands. [Formula: see text], estimated from EI, had a comparable value range to the AI, and retained the interpretation ability of the original RI. Application on real seismic data showed that existing EI inversion results could be improved straightforwardly by means of the introduced transformation.
Common-reflection-surface imaging of shallow and ultrashallow reflectors
Authors: Deidda Gian Piero , Battaglia Enzo , Heilmann Zeno
Published: June 2012

We analyzed the feasibility of the common-reflection-surface (CRS) stack for near-surface surveys as an alternative to the conventional common midpoint (CMP) stacking procedure. The data-driven, less user-interactive CRS method could be more cost efficient for shallow surveys, where the high sensitivity to velocity analysis makes data processing a critical step. We compared the results for two field data sets collected to image shallow and ultrashallow reflectors: an example of shallow P-wave reflection for targets in the first few hundred meters, and an example of SH-wave reflection for targets in the first 10 m. By processing the shallow P-wave records using the CMP method, we imaged several nearly horizontal reflectors with onsets from 60 to about 250 ms. The CRS stack produced a stacked section more suited for a subsurface interpretation, without any preliminary formal and time-consuming velocity analysis, because the imaged reflectors possessed greater coherency and lateral continuity. With CMP processing of the SH-wave records, we imaged a dipping bedrock interface below four horizontal reflectors in unconsolidated, very low velocity sediments. The vertical and lateral resolution was very high, despite the very shallow depth: the image showed the pinchout of two layers at less than 10 m depth. The numerous traces used by the CRS stack improved the continuity of the shallowest reflector, but the deepest overburden reflectors appear unresolved, with not well-imaged pinchouts. Using the kinematic wavefield attributes determined for each stacking operation, we retrieved velocity fields fitting the stacking velocities we had estimated in the CMP processing. The use of CRS stack could be a significant step ahead to increase the acceptance of the seismic reflection method as a routine investigation method in shallow and ultrashallow seismics.
Targeted inactivation of nuclear interaction partner of ALK disrupts meiotic prophase
Authors: Illert Anna Lena , Kawaguchi Hiroyuki , Antinozzi Cristina , Bassermann Florian , Quintanilla-Martinez Letitia , von Klitzing Christine , Hiwatari Mitsuteru , Peschel Christian , de Rooij Dirk G. , Morris Stephan W. , Barchi Marco , Duyster Justus
Published: June 2012

NIPA (nuclear interaction partner of ALK) is an F-box-like protein that monitors the timing of mitotic entry. Constitutively active NIPA delays mitotic entry by preventing accumulation of nuclear cyclin B1. Here, we have investigated the consequences of Nipa inactivation by using a conditional knockout strategy. Nipa-deficient animals are viable but show a lower birth rate and reduced body weight. Furthermore, Nipa-deficient males are sterile owing to a block of spermatogenesis during meiotic prophase. Whereas Nipa−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts show no severe phenotype, Nipa−/− spermatocytes arrest during stage IV of the epithelial cycle with subsequent TUNEL-positive apoptosis resulting from improper synapsis, defects in the repair of DNA double-stranded breaks and synaptonemal complex formation. Moreover, we show nuclear accumulation of cyclin B1 with a subsequent premature increase in G2/M kinase activity in Nipa−/− spermatocytes. Together, these results reveal a novel role for NIPA in meiosis.
„Un conflitto intestino e una malattia dell’anima“: ΝΟΣΟΣ E ΣΤΑΣΙΣ nel Sofista di Platone (Soph. 228 A 7–8)
Authors: Grimaudo Sabrina
Published: June 2012

In Sophist 228a7–8 the reading of Plato’s manuscripts διαφορᾶς διαφϑοράν is defended on the basis of a reconsideration of the Galenic passages of De placitis Hippocratis et Platonis (V 2, p. 302, 18–19 and V 3, p. 310, 26 De Lacy) usually advanced in order to maintain that it is corrupt and is to be changed into in διαφϑορᾶς διαφοράν. The analysis of several other passages of the Platonic corpus concerning στάσις and νόσος, and the comparison with Plutarch’s De Stoicorum repugnantiis 1041b, which shows a textual history very similar to the considered passage of Plato’s Sophist, further support the reading in the manuscripts.