bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Focus‐Immunoassay for Borna Disease Virus‐Specific Antigens
Authors: Pauli G. , Grunmach J. , Ludwig H.
Published: August 2010

Borna Disease virus and its antigens have been assayed by the fluorescence antibody technique. A focus‐immunoassay, termed PELISA, was established. It is based on fixation of the cells with 3% formaldehyde, treatment with 1% Triton X‐100, incubation with antibodies and the corresponding species‐specific antibodies coupled to horseradish peroxidase followed by the enzyme/substrate (3‐amino‐9‐ethyl‐carbazole, H202) reaction. This assay can be applied to detect antigens. It allows quantitation of virus as well as titration of antibodies. It greatly facilitates studies on Borna Disease virus and its antigens and is approx. 10 to 100‐fold more sensitive than the fluorescence antibody test used previously.

Focus‐Immuntest zum Nachweis von virus‐spezifischen Antigenen bei der Borna Krankheit

Eine Borna Virus Infektion sowie Borna Virus‐spezifische Antigene wurden bisher mittels der Fluoreszenzantikörper‐Technik nachgewiesen. Es wird über einen empfindlichen Focus‐Immuntest, genannt PELISA, berichtet. Er basiert auf der Fixation von Zellen mit 3% Formaldehyd, Behandlung mit 1% Triton X‐100, Inkubation mit Antikörpern und den entsprechenden speziesspezifischen, Peroxidase markierten Antikörpern. Die Antikörperbindung wird durch eine Enzym/Substrat (3‐Amino‐9‐Ethyl‐Carbazol, H202) Reaktion nachgewiesen. Dieser Test kann zur Antigendarstellung genutzt werden. Er erlaubt die Quantifizierung von Virus ebenso wie die Titration von Antikörpern und ist etwa 10–100fach empfindlicher als der bis jetzt verwendete Fluoreszenzantikörpertest. Untersuchungen am Virus der Borna Krankheit sowie seiner Antigene werden mit diesem Test erheblich vereinfacht.

La prueba inmunitaria focal para los antígenos específicos del virus de la enfermedad de Borna

Hasta la fecha se ponían en evidencia una infección por virus Borna y los antígenos específicos del mismo virus mediante la técnica de anticuerpos fluorescentes. Se informa sobre una prueba inmunitaria focal sensible, llamada PELISA. Esta técnica se basa en la fijación de células con un 3% de aldehido metílico, tratamiento con 1% de Triton X‐100, incubación con anticuerpos y con los anticuerpos correspondientes específicos de especie, marcados con peroxidasa de rábano rusticano. La fijación de anticuerpos se pone en evidencia por medio de una reacción de enzima/substrato (3‐amino‐9‐etil‐carbazol, H202). Esta prueba se puede utilizar para detectar antígenos. Permite cuantificar virus, titular anticuerpos y es de 10–100 veces más sensible que la prueba de anticuerpos fluorescentes que se venía utilizando hasta ahora. Con esta prueba se han simplificado mucho los estudios referentes al virus de la enfermedad de Borna y a sus antígenos.
Diagnostic Serologique de la Maladie de Newcastle par les Tests d'inhibition de l'Hemagglutination et Elisa Cinétique des différentes classes d'anticorps vaccinaux1
Authors: Meulemans G. , Carlier M. C. , Gonze M. , Petit P. , Halen Ph.
Published: August 2010

Les tests ELISA et d'inhibition de l'hémagglutination ont été comparés pour la recherche des anticorps Newcastle lors de vaccination par goutte oculaire au moyen de virus type La Sota.

Les deux tests sont positifs dès le 6ème jour, moment où seules des IgM spécifiques sont observées. Les IgG spécifiques apparaissent entre le 7ème et le 8ème jour. On ne trouve pas d'IgA spécifiques dans le sérum des volailles vaccinées. Une fixation non spécifique des IgM sur l'antigène s'observe en méthode ELISA.

Le test d'inhibition de l'hémagglutination est aussi sensible et plus spécifique que le test ELISA pour la recherche des anticorps Newcastle.

Serologische Diagnostik der Newcastle Disease durch Hämagglutinationshemmungstests und ELISA Kinetik der verschiedenen vakzinalen Antikörperklassen

Die ELISA‐ und Hämagglutinationshemmungstests wurden, um die Newcastle‐Antikörper bei der Vakzinierung durch Augentropfen mittels Virus des Types La Sota zu untersuchen, verglichen.

Die beiden Tests sind ab dem 6. Tag, wenn nur die spezifischen IgM beobachtet werden, positiv. Die spezifischen IgG erscheinen zwischen dem 7. und 8. Tag. Es gibt keine spezifischen IgA im Serum des vakzinierten Geflügels. Eine unspezifische Verbindung der IgM am Antigen wird mit dem ELISA beobachtet.

Um die Newcastle‐Antikörper zu untersuchen, ist der Hämagglutinationshemmungstest gleich sensible und spezifischer als der ELISA‐Test.

Serological diagnosis of Newcastle Disease by haemagglutination inhibition and ELISA tests Kinetics of different classes of vaccinal antibodies

The ELISA and HI tests were compared in investigating the antibody response following eyedrop vaccination with La Sota types of Newcastle Disease virus.

Both were positive from day 6, when only specific IgM was detected. Specific IgG in the serum of vaccinated fowls appeared between days 7 and 8. No specific IgA was detected in the serum of vaccinated birds. A non‐specific binding of IgM to the antigen was revealed by the ELISA test.

For the study of ND antibodies the HI test is just as sensitive and more specific than the ELISA test.

El diagnóstico de la enfermedad de Newcastle por las pruebas de inhibición de la hemaglutinación y ELISA

Se compararon las pruebas ELISA y de inhibición de la hemaglutinación para examinar los anticuerpos Newcastle en la vacunación por gota ocular mediante virus tipo La Sota.

Ambas pruebas son positivas a partir del día 6°, si solo se tienen en cuenta las IgM específicas. Las IgG específicas aparecen entre el día 7° y 8°. No hay ninguna IgA específica en el suero sanguíneo de las aves vacunadas. Se observa con la ELISA una fijación inespecífica de las IgM als antígeno.

Para estudiar los anticuerpos Newcastle, la prueba de inhibición de la hemaglutinación es más sensible y específica que la prueba ELISA.
Assessment of the dose of the immunological adjuvant Quil A in mice and guinea pigs, using sheep red blood cells as model antigen*
Authors: Dalsgaard K.
Published: August 2010

The immunological adjuvant Quil A (isolated from Quillaria saponaria Molina) was tested in a dose dependent manner for its ability to elicit a significant adjuvant effect. For this purpose sheep red blood cells (SRBC) were used as antigen; mice and guinea pigs served as experimental animal species.

Quil A had a highly significant adjuvant effect when given in doses above 10 micrograms to mice or above 50 micrograms to guinea pigs. There is no advantage in increasing the doses above 25 and 50 micrograms, respectively. These doses produced no adverse clinical reactions.

Das Immun‐Adjuvans Quil A (gewonnen aus dem Baum Quillaria saponaria Molina) wurde dosisabhängig auf seine Eigenschaften als Adjuvans bei Immunisierungsvorgängen getestet. Zu diesem Zweck wurden Schaferythrozyten (SRBC) als Antigen und Mäuse sowie Meerschweinchen als Versuchstiere gewählt.

Quil A hatte eine hoch signifikante Adjuvans‐Wirkung in einer Dosierung von über 10 Mikrogramm bei Mäusen bzw. von über 50 Mikrogramm bei Meerschweinchen. Es brachte keinen Vorteil die Dosis auf über 25 bzw. 50 Mikrogramm zu erhöhen. Diese Dosen verursachten keinerlei klinische Nebenwirkungen.

Avalúo de la dosis del adyuvante inmunológico Quil A en ratones y cobayos, usando hematíes de oveja como antígeno modelo

El adyuvante inmunitario Quil A (extraído del árbol sudamericano Quillaya saponaria Molina, el quillay) se contrastó, dependiendo de la dosificación, en cuanto a sus propiedades como adyuvante en los procesos de inmunización. Para este fin se eligieron los eritrocitos ovinos (SRBC) como antígeno, y ratones y conejillos de Indias como animales de ensayo.

Quil A tenía un efecto adyuvante altamente significante a una dosificación superior a 10 microgramos en ratones resp. superior a 50 microgramos en cobayos. El aumento de las dosis a más de 25 y 50 microgramos, resp. Las dosis mencionadas no produjeron ninguna clase de reacciones clínicas secundarias adversas.
Rapid diagnosis of rinderpest by Countercurrent Immuno‐electro‐osmo‐phoresis in Nigeria
Authors: Durojaiye O. A.
Published: August 2010

Nineteen samples of tissues obtained at autopsy in recent suspected outbreaks of rinderpest in Nigeria were tested by the Ouchterlony gel diffusion and countercurrent immuno‐electro‐osmo‐phoresis (CIEOP) techniques. Rinderpest virus antigen was detected by CIEOP in 11 samples (within 30 minutes) and by the Ouchterlony technique in 8 of the samples.

Schnell‐Diagnose der Rinderpest durch gegenläufige Immun‐Elektroosmophorese in Nigeria

Neunzehn bei der Autopsie gewonnene Gewebeproben nach einigen fraglichen, in letzter Zeit aufgetretenen Ausbrüchen von Rinderpest in Nigeria wurden mit der Ouchter‐lony‐Geldiffusions‐Technik und der gegenläufigen Immun‐Elektroosmophorese (CIEOP) untersucht. Rinderpestvirus‐Antigen konnte mit der CIEOP in elf Proben nachgewiesen werden (und zwar innerhalb 30 Minuten), mit der Ouchterlony‐Technik in acht der Proben.

El diagnóstico rápido de la peste bovina mediante inmunoelectroosmoforesis de contracorriente en Nigeria

Diecinueve muestras de tejidos obtenidas durante las autopsias tras algunos brotes sospechosos recientes de peste bovina en Nigeria fueron examinadas con la técnica de Ouchterlony de difusión en gelosa y la de inmunoelectroosmoforesis de contracorriente (CIEOP). Antígeno de virus peste bovina se pudo poner en evidencia con la CIEOP en once muestras (en el espacio de 30 minutos), mientras que con la técnica de Ouchterlony en ocho muestras.
Isolation of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus from a Cow with Mastitis
Authors: Rahman H. , Baxi K. K.
Published: August 2010

A case of clinical mastitis in a cow with Acinetobacter calcoaceticus was recorded. The isolate was sensitive to neomycin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin and streptomycin, and of resistant to penicillin, tetracycline and nitrofurantoin.
Vergleichende Untersuchungen zur Anwendung eines Enzyme‐linked‐Immunosorbent‐Assay (ELISA) zum Antikörpernachweis gegen den Erreger der Aviären Encephalomyelitis*
Authors: Richter R. , Kösters J. , Kuhavanta‐Kalkosol S.
Published: August 2010

Auf Grundlage eines teilgereinigten und konzentrierten AEV‐Antigens aus infiziertem embryonalen Gehirn wurde ein ELISA entwickelt. In vergleichenden Untersuchungen mit AGP, VN und EET wurde festgestellt, daß der ELISA eine genügend hohe Sensitivität besitzt, um quantitative Aussagen machen zu können. Die Methode ist empfindlicher als der AGP. Der ELISA ist für die routinemäßige Untersuchung von Hühnerseren auf Antikörper gegen AEV geeignet. Die Lagerfähigkeit beschichteter vorbereiteter ELISA‐Platten ist auf 4 Wochen bei + 4°C bzw. 5 Wochen bei −20 °C beschränkt.

Comparative studies on the use of an Enzyme‐linked Irnmunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for the Dethction of Antibodies against the Avian Encephalomyelitis‐Virus (AEV)

The present work was concerned with assessing an ELISA on the basis of a partially purified and concentrated AEV‐antigen from infected embryonic brain tissue.

In comparison with the agar‐gel‐precipitin‐test (AGP), virus neutralization test and embryo susceptibility test it was shown that the ELISA is sensitive enough to ensure a quantitative result. The method is more sensitive than AGP. The ELISA is suitable for the routine diagnosis of AEV‐antibodies in chicken sera.

The storage of antigen‐covered prepared ELISA plates is possible for 4 weeks at 4 °C and for 5 weeks at −20 °C.

Recherches comparées sur l'utilisation d'un Enzyme‐linked‐immunosorbent‐Assay (ELISA) pour la mise en évidence d'anticorps contre l'agent de l'encéphalomyélite aviaire Un test ELISA a été développé sur la base d'un antigéne AEV partiellement purifié et concentré à partir d'un cerveau embryonnaire infecté. Dans des recherches comparées avec AGP, VN et EET, il a été établi que l'ELISA posséde une sensibilité suffisamment élevée pour pouvoir donner des résultats quantitatifs. La méthode est plus sensible que AGP. ELISA peut être utilisé dans les examens de routine pour la recherche des anticorps contre AEV dans des sérums de volaille. La durée de conservation des plaques ELISA préparées est limitée à 4 semaines à + 4°C et à 5 semaines à — 20°C.

Estudios comparativos sobre la aplicación de un ensayo inmunosorbente ligado a la enzima (ELISA) para la puesta en evidencia de anticuerpos frente al agente etiológico de la encefalomielitis aviar

Se desarrolló un ELISA sobre la base de un antígeno semipurificado y concentrado de AEV procedente de cerebro embrionario infectado. En investigaciones comparadas con AGP, VN y EET se comprobó que el ELISA posee una sensitividad elevada suficiente para poder hacer aseveraciones cuantitativas. Este método es más sensible que el de la AGP. El ELISA resulta apropiado para el análisis rutinario de sueros sanguíneos de gallina en cuanto a anticuerpos frente a AEV. Se halla limitado a 4 semanas a ± 4 °C o a 5 semanas a −20 °C, resp. El tiempo de almacenamiento de placas ELISA preparadas por estratos.
The existence of three different viral agents in a tumour bearing European eel (Anguilla anguilla)
Authors: Ahne W. , Thomsen I.
Published: August 2010

Three different viral agents were isolated from a tumour bearing eel. Two of the agents were identified as IPNV‐subtype Ab and as Rhabdovirus anguilla subtype EVX. The third syncytia‐forming agent has not as yet been classified.

Das Vorkommen 3 verschiedener Viren bei einem Aal mit Stomatopapillom

Von einem tumortragenden Aal konnten 3 verschiedene Viren isoliert werden. 2 der Erreger wurden als IPNV‐Subtyp Ab und als Rhabdovirus anguilla‐Subtyp EVX identifiziert. Das 3.syncytienbildende Agens konnte bisher noch nicht klassifiziert werden.

Présence de trois virus différents dans un stomatopapillome chez une anguille

Trois virus différents ont pu être isolés chez une anguille atteinte d'une tumeur. Deux virus ont été identifiés comme IPNV — sous‐type Ab et comme Rhabdovirus anguilla, sous‐type EVX. Le troisième agent, syncytia‐formateur, n'a pas pu être encore classé.

La existencia de tres agentes virales diferentes en una anguila europea (Anguilla anguilla) con estomatopapiloma

De una anguila, que era portadora de un tumor, se pudieron aislar 3 virus diferentes. 2 de estos agentes fueron identificados como IPNV‐subtipo Ab y como Rhabdovirus anguilla — subtipo EVX. El tercer agente, sinciciógeno, no pudo ser clasificado hasta la fecha.
The Effect of Sex Hormones on Total Immunoglobulin Level in the Serum of Moulting Hens
Authors: Bobek S. , Mika M. , Niezgoda J. , Pierzchala K.
Published: August 2010

Oestradiol given separately increased the concentration of immunoglobulin in the blood plasma of moulting hens. Progesterone decreased the level of Ig, while testosterone had no effect, but both hormones potentiated the effect of oestradiol.

Der Einfluß von Geschlechtshormonen auf die Serum‐Immunglobulinspiegel in Hühnern während der Mauser

Die gesonderte Gabe von Oestradiol erhöhte die Immunglobulinkonzentration im Plama von Hühnern während der Mauser. Progesteron wirkte depressiv auf die Ig‐Spiegel, Testosteron war ohne Effekt. Bei gleichzeitiger Verabreichung potenzierten beide jedoch den Effekt von Oestradiol.
Inhibición del crecimiento de poblaciones bacterianas mediante beta glucósidos extraídos de Myzodendron punctulatum B y S3
Authors: García‐Quintana H. G. , Barrera D. , Reyes A. , Polette M.
Published: August 2010

Se analiza el efecto antibacteriano de tres nuevos beta glucósidos extraídos de M. punctulatum B y S sobre 24 clones bacterianos pertenecientes a seis especies diferentes. El product 04(4‐hidroxi‐3‐O‐glucosil fenil)‐z‐butanona es el que posee mayor efecto inhibito‐rio. Por su parte St. aureus resulta la especie más sensible. Se continúan los estudios tendientes a incrementar la actividad inhibitoria de estas sustancias.

Die hemmende Wirkung sekundärer Metaboliten von Myzodendron punctulatum B und S auf das Wachstum verschiedener Bakterienstämme

Es wurde die letale oder hemmende Wirkung von drei neuen sekundären Metaboliten, isoliert von Myzodendron punctulatum B und S, an 24 Bakterienstämmen aus 6 verschiedenen Gruppen untersucht. Es zeigte sich, daß der Metabolit 4‐(4‐hydroxi‐3‐0‐glucosyl phenyl)‐2‐butanone die größte hemmende Wirkung aufwies. Dieser Effekt wurde an 8 Stämmen beobachtet. Bei den Bakterienstämmen reagierte Staphylococcus aureus am empfindlichsten. Es werden weitere Untersuchungen durchgeführt werden, um die hemmende Wirkung dieser Substanzen zu erhöhen.

Inhibitory effect on bacterial growth by beta glucosids obtained from Myzodendron punctulatum B and S

The lethal or inhibitory effect of three new secondary metabolites obtained from Myzodendron punctulatum B and S was studied on 24 bacterial strains of six different species. It was concluded that the substance with more inhibitory activity was the metabolite 4‐(4‐hydroxi‐3‐O‐glucosyl phenyl)‐2‐butanone as it was active on eight strains. On the other hand Staphylococcus aureus was found to be the most sensitive species. Further studies are being carried out to increase the inhibitory activity of these substances.

Effet inhibiteur des métabolites secondaires de Myzodendron punctulatum B et S sur la croissance de différentes souches bactériennes

L'effet létal ou inhibiteur de trois nouveaux métabolites secondaires isolés de Myzodendron punctulatum B et S a été examiné sur 24 souches de bactiries de 6 groupes différents. Le metabolite 4‐(4‐hydroxi‐3‐0‐glucosyl phenyl)‐2‐butanone a présenté le plus grand effet inhibiteur. Cet effet a été observé sur 8 souches. Staphylococcus aureus a été le plus sensible parmi les souches bactériennes. D'autres recherches ont été entreprises pour augmenter I'effet inhibiteur de ces substances.
Notable names in the history of surgery: 2. William Arbuthnot Lane (1856–1943)
Authors: Fu Louis Kuo‐Tai
Published: August 2010

Surgery today owes much to the services of early practitioners who made their advances as a result of wide clinical experience and compassion. This two‐part series explores the careers of Percivall Pott and William Arbuthnot Lane. Sir William Arbuthnot Lane was the most brilliant technical surgeon in Britain during the first half of the 20th century. He was one of the many famous physicians and surgeons to train at Guy's Hospital in London since its founding in 1724. Although some of his ideas may be controversial, he had made many original contributions and innovations in a variety of surgical techniques. He introduced mastoid drainage in purulent otitis media with specially designed chisels and gouges; resection of the cervical oesophagus for cancer and reconstruction by skin graft; and the repair of cleft lip and palate in neonates. His greatest contribution must be the introduction of the ‘no‐touch technique’ in open reduction and plating of long bone fractures by Lane's steel plates. In later life, Lane became obsessed with the role of regular bowel motion in health. To combat various real or imagined ailments, he first short‐circuited and later resected the whole large intestine. When surgery failed to resolve the problem, Lane advised regularly taking paraffin oil for the relief of constipation. He was a firm believer as well as a pioneer in alternative or homeopathic medicine. Lane's concept of chronic intestinal stasis is a classic case of a flawless surgical technique subservient to a faulty hypothesis.
Association of DRD4 polymorphism with severity of oppositional defiant disorder, separation anxiety disorder and repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Gadow Kenneth D. , DeVincent Carla J. , Olvet Doreen M. , Pisarevskaya Victoria , Hatchwell Eli
Published: August 2010

The objective was to examine whether a common polymorphism in the dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4) might be a potential biomarker for behavioral variation within the autism spectrum disorder clinical phenotype. Children (N = 66) were evaluated with a validated mother‐ and teacher‐completed DSM‐IV‐referenced rating scale. Partial eta‐squared (ηp2) was used to gauge the magnitude of group differences: 0.01−0.06 = small, 0.06−0.14 = moderate and > 0.14 = large. Children who were 7‐repeat allele carriers had more severe oppositional defiant disorder behaviors according to mothers’ (ηp2 = 0.10) and teachers’ (ηp2 = 0.06) ratings than noncarriers, but the latter was marginally significant (P = 0.07). Children who were 7‐repeat allele carriers also obtained more severe maternal ratings of tics (ηp2 = 0.07) and obsessions–compulsions (ηp2 = 0.08). Findings for maternal ratings of separation anxiety were marginally significant (P = 0.08, ηp2 = 0.05). Analyses of combined DRD4 and dopamine transporter gene (DAT1) genotypes approached significance (P = 0.05) for teachers’ ratings of oppositional behavior and mothers’ ratings of tics. DRD4 allelic variation may be a prognostic biomarker for challenging behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder, but these exploratory findings remain tentative pending replication with larger independent samples.
NARRATIVES OF DISPLAY AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON
Authors: SMITH CHARLES SAUMAREZ
Published: August 2010

This article looks at the history of methods of display at the National Gallery, London, since the appointment of Kenneth Clark in 1934 and traces the changing philosophies and attitudes to the collection through an examination of the surviving documentation. In describing the different approaches to the display, it is possible to deduce an archaeology of changing ideas as to how works of art should be viewed: either in isolation from their surroundings, as was the orthodoxy during the 1960s or surrounded by richly opulent, neo‐Victorian interiors, the orthodoxy of the 1980s, or with supplementary information on the contents of individual galleries, as introduced in 2004.
Moderating effect of situational strength on the relationship between personality traits and counterproductive work behaviour
Authors: Smithikrai Chuchai
Published: August 2010

The present study investigated the extent to which the strength of situations moderates the relations between personality traits and counterproductive work behaviour (CWB). It was hypothesized that the relations between personality traits and CWB would vary across strong and weak situations. In addition, there would be an interaction between conscientiousness and agreeableness in predicting CWB. As predicted, the results showed that the effect of personality on CWB depended on the strength of situations. The results also indicated that, in a weak situation only, conscientiousness has a stronger, negative relation to CWB when agreeableness is low than when agreeableness is high.
Immunohistochemical analysis of the progression of flat and papillary preneoplastic lesions in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinogenesis in hepatolithiasis
Authors: Itatsu Keita , Zen Yoh , Ohira Shusaku , Ishikawa Akira , Sato Yasunori , Harada Kenichi , Ikeda Hiroko , Sasaki Motoko , Nimura Yuji , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: August 2010

Background: Two types of precursor lesions, flat‐type ‘biliary intraepithelial neoplasia (BilIN)’ and papillary‐type ‘intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB)’, are proposed in the tumorigenesis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) in hepatolithiasis.

Methods: In this study, the participation of cancer‐related molecules in the progression of these two precursor lesions was examined, using 64 hepatolithiatic livers with BilIN lesions (45 livers) and IPNB lesions (19 livers) and 10 hepatolithiatic livers without neoplastic lesions as a control. The expression of E‐cadherin, β‐catenin, matrix metalloproteinase‐7 (MMP‐7), membrane type 1‐MMP (MT1‐MMP), cyclin D1 and c‐myc was immunohistochemically examined.

Results: The membranous expression of β‐catenin decreased along with the progression in both BilIN and IPNB lineages. Membranous expression of E‐cadherin was significantly decreased in invasive ICC with BilIN and IPNB in comparison with non‐invasive counterparts. MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP were commonly expressed in invasive ICC with BilIN (100%), while non‐invasive lesions (BilIN‐1, ‐2, ‐3) and the IPNB lineage were only occasionally and weakly positive for these molecules. Cyclin D1 and c‐myc, target molecules of Wnt signalling, were frequently positive in the IPNB lineage (65 and 54% respectively), and interestingly nuclear β‐catenin staining, reflecting activation of Wnt signalling, was observed only in the IPNB lineage (22%) (P<0.05).

Conclusions: Decreased membranous expression of β‐catenin and E‐cadherin is an early event in the tumorigenesis of both BilIN and IPNB lineages. The expression of MMP‐7 and MT1‐MMP was closely associated with invasive growth of the BilIN lineage. The Wnt signalling pathway may play an important role in the tumorigenesis of the IPNB lineage.
Intra‐operative ultrasound for detection of liver metastases from colorectal cancer
Authors: Mazzoni Gianluca , Napoli Alessandro , Mandetta Saverio , Miccini Michelangelo , Cassini Diletta , Gregori Matteo , Colace Lidia , Tocchi Adriano
Published: August 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of intra‐operative ultrasound (IOUS) imaging in detecting liver secondaries at the time of primary colorectal surgery and to evaluate the impact of IOUS on patient management.

Methods: Data from 167 patients with primary colorectal cancer who were admitted for elective surgery between January 1995 and December 2003 were prospectively evaluated and analysed. All patients underwent pre‐operative abdominal ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (CT), as well as IOUS. The final diagnosis of liver metastases was made by means of histological examination of either biopsy or surgical specimens. The sensitivities of pre‐operative US and CT were compared with the sensitivity of IOUS, referred to histology. Changes in surgical management owing to IOUS findings were noted.

Results: IOUS supplied additional information in the case of 31 patients. In 28 of these patients, this information had a major impact on the intra‐operative strategy, in that the procedure was altered.

Conclusions: IOUS is safe, simple to perform and more accurate than pre‐operative imaging. It reduces the number of patients subjected to superfluous surgery. The use of IOUS is therefore encouraged during colorectal cancer surgery.
Non‐transplant surgical approach to liver‐based hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia: a first report
Authors: Orlando Giuseppe , Sabbà Carlo , Carino Nicola De Liguori , Scelzo Chiara , Tariciotti Laura , Bonanni Luigi , Angelo Maurizio D' , Baiocchi Leonardo , Lerut Jan , Tisone Giuseppe
Published: August 2010

A 55‐year‐old woman with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) underwent a left lateral liver bisegmentectomy (removal of segments 2 and 3) for hepatic‐based arteriovenous malformations. This lesion determined a progressive fatigue and invalidating effort dyspnoea. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient is currently doing well at 4 years after surgery. To our knowledge, this is the first case of hepatic‐based HHT treated with liver resection. This anecdotal report should promote the evaluation of this approach in order to define its role in the treatment of liver involvement in this rare disease.
Methylprednisolone injection via the portal vein suppresses inflammation in acute liver failure induced in rats by lipopolysaccharide and d‐galactosamine
Authors: Higuchi Nobito , Kato Masaki , Kotoh Kazuhiro , Kohjima Motoyuki , Aishima Shinichi , Nakamuta Makoto , Fukui Yoshinori , Takayanagi Ryoichi , Enjoji Munechika
Published: August 2010

Background: We have reported that hepatic arterial steroid injection is an effective therapy to rescue patients from fulminant or severe acute hepatic failure. We speculate that a high concentration of steroid suppresses inflammatory processes in the liver directly by restraining activated inflammatory cells, including macrophages. To analyse the detailed mechanism, steroid injection via the portal vein was performed in an experimental model of liver damage.

Methods: Rats subjected to lipopolysaccharide and d‐galactosamine injection were treated with a methylprednisolone injection via the tail vein or the portal vein. The survival rate, serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic cell counts in the liver were analysed.

Results: The survival rate was significantly improved by steroid injection, especially via the portal vein. Serum values of alanine aminotransferase, tumor necrosis factor‐α and interferon‐γ were reduced in the treated groups, especially the group given portal venous injections. Apoptotic cell counts in the liver were significantly lower in the group injected with steroid via the portal vein.

Conclusion: In the model rats, high concentrations of steroid in the liver acted on inflammatory cells and suppressed inflammatory cytokines and liver cell death. The mechanism is suggested to be the same for arterial steroid injection therapy in patients with acute hepatic failure.
Acute hepatitis in a patient with familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Migita Kiyoshi , Abiru Seigo , Tanaka Mototsugu , Ito Masahiro , Miyashita Taichiro , Maeda Yumi , Koga Tomohiro , Nakamura Minoru , Komori Atsumasa , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Ida Hiroaki , Eguchi Katsumi , Hirayama Kenji , Yasunami Michio , Ishibashi Hiromi
Published: August 2010

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a hereditary syndrome characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and serositis. In this report, we describe a Japanese patient with FMF and Sjögren's syndrome, in whom acute elevations of transaminase occurred. The histological findings from the liver biopsy specimens demonstrated a nonspecific hepatitis, with liver cell necrosis and interlobular inflammatory cell invasion, without the presence of interface hepatitis or bile duct injury. This case underscores the possibility that MEFV mutations contribute to hepatic inflammation, as seen in this case, by way of an alteration of the pyrin function.
Connective tissue growth factor, steatosis and fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Hora Caroline , Negro Francesco , Leandro Giacchino , Oneta Carl M. , Rubbia‐Brandt Laura , Muellhaupt Beat , Helbling Beat , Malinverni Raffaele , Gonvers Jean‐Jacques , Dufour Jean‐François ,   the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study Group
Published: August 2010

Background/Aim: Both steatosis and insulin resistance have been linked to accelerated fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a major role in extracellular matrix production in fibrotic disorders including cirrhosis, and its expression is stimulated in vitro by insulin and glucose. We hypothesized that CTGF may link steatosis, insulin resistance and fibrosis.

Methods: We included 153 chronic hepatitis C patients enrolled in the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study and for whom a liver biopsy and plasma samples were available. CTGF expression was assessed quantitatively by immunohistochemistry. In 94 patients (57 with genotypes non‐3), plasma levels of glucose, insulin and leptin were also measured. CTGF synthesis was investigated by immunoblotting on LX‐2 stellate cells.

Results: Connective tissue growth factor expression was higher in patients with steatosis (P=0.039) and in patients with fibrosis (P=0.008) than those without these features. CTGF levels were neither associated with insulinaemia or with glycaemia, nor with inflammation. By multiple regression analysis, CTGF levels were independently associated with steatosis, a past history of alcohol abuse, plasma leptin and HCV RNA levels; when only patients with genotypes non‐3 were considered, CTGF levels were independently associated with a past history of alcohol abuse, plasma leptin levels and steatosis. Leptin stimulated CTGF synthesis in LX‐2 cells.

Conclusions: In patients with chronic hepatitis C and steatosis, CTGF may promote fibrosis independently of inflammation. CTGF may link steatosis and fibrosis via increased leptin levels.
Changes in serum hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) levels associated with the emergence of YMDD mutants in HBeAg non‐seroconverted patients during lamivudine therapy
Authors: Yen Yi‐Hao , Lu Sheng‐Nan , Chen Chien‐Hung , Wang Jing‐Houng , Wu Chun‐Mei , Hung Chao‐Hung , Tseng Po‐lin , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Changchien Chi‐Sin , Lee Chuan‐Mo
Published: August 2010

Background: To elucidate the associations between the changing patterns of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) levels and the emergence of tyrosine–methionine–aspartate–aspartate (YMDD) mutants in HBeAg non‐seroconverted patients undergoing lamivudine therapy.

Methods: This study analysed 76 HBeAg‐positive naïve chronic hepatitis B patients treated with lamivudine. The median duration of therapy was 52 weeks. The YMDD mutants were detected in 35 patients. The changing patterns of HBeAg levels were categorized into three groups: Descending, Descending–Ascending and Fluctuation. HBeAg breakthrough was defined as progressive HBeAg decreasing to <10% of pretreatment levels, followed by increases exceeding 50 S/Co [the ratio of the sample (S) to the cut‐off (Co)] above nadir levels.

Results: Of 76 patients, the sensitivity and specificity for predicting YMDD mutants by the Descending–Ascending pattern were 66 and 100% respectively. Of 17 patients with YMDD mutants in the Descending–Ascending group, hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA first increased, followed by increased HBeAg levels and finally by biochemical breakthrough. The median intervals between virological breakthrough and HBeAg breakthrough, between HBeAg breakthrough and biochemical breakthrough and between virological breakthrough and biochemical breakthrough were 4, 24 and 33 weeks respectively.

Conclusions: Serial HBeAg levels are useful in predicting YMDD mutant emergence in HBeAg non‐seroconverted patients during lamivudine therapy.
Protective effect of Kalpaamruthaa in combating the oxidative stress posed by aflatoxin B1‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma with special reference to flavonoid structure–activity relationship
Authors: Umarani Mohanasundaram , Shanthi Palanivelu , Sachdanandam Panchanadham
Published: August 2010

Aims/Background: Aflatoxin B1(AFB1) is a potent hepatotoxic and hepatocarcinogenic mycotoxin. It has been postulated to play a major role in the aetiology of primary human liver cancer. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) is one of the main manifestations of oxidative damage and has been found to play an important role in the toxicity and carcinogenesis of many carcinogens. The present investigation aimed at assessing the effect of Kalpaamruthaa (KA), a modified Siddha preparation, on AFB1‐mediated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Methods: The drug was administered orally (300 mg/kg body weight/day) for 28 days to HCC‐bearing rats. The level of lipid peroxides, antioxidant enzymes, glutathione and glutathione‐metabolizing enzyme activity were determined in the plasma, haemolysate and liver homogenate of control and experimental rats.Results: Rats subjected to AFB1showed a decline in the thiol capacity of the cell, accompanied by high malondialdehyde levels along with lowered activities of enzymic and non‐enzymic antioxidant and glutathione‐metabolizing enzyme levels. KA treatment restored the deranged LPO and enzyme activities almost to control levels, thereby suggesting hepatoprotection.Conclusion: This study highlighted the beneficial effect of KA in reversing the damage posed by AFB1and thereby bringing about an improvement in the antioxidant status to combat the oxidative stress.
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance in patients with chronic hepatitis C: comparison with hepatitis B virus‐infected and hepatitis C virus‐cleared patients
Authors: Imazeki Fumio , Yokosuka Osamu , Fukai Kenichi , Kanda Tatsuo , Kojima Hiroshige , Saisho Hiromitsu
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and development of diabetes mellitus (DM) or insulin resistance (IR) in comparison with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and eradication of HCV infection by interferon treatment.

Methods: This study consisted of 952 outpatients, including 544 HCV‐infected (HCV+chronic), 286 HBV‐infected (HBV+chronic) and 122 patients whose HCV was cleared by interferon treatment (HCV+cleared) (diabetes study). Among 849 without overt DM, IR was assessed in 423 patients, including 232 HCV‐infected (HCV+chronic), 135 HBV‐infected (HBV+chronic) and 56 HCV‐eradicated patients (HCV+cleared) (IR substudy).

Results: The prevalence of DM in the HBV+chronic, HCV+chronic and HCV+cleared groups was 6.3, 13.6 and 9.0%, respectively (HBV+chronic vs HCV+chronic, P<0.005), in the diabetes study, and the prevalence of IR in the HCV+chronic group (54.3%) was also higher than that in the HBV+chronic (36.3%) (P<0.005) and HCV+cleared groups (35.7%) (P<0.05) in the IR substudy. However, HCV infection was not shown to be independently associated with DM development [odds ratio (OR) 1.669; P=0.0936] and with IR (OR 1.531; P=0.2154) by multivariate analysis in comparison with HBV infection as control.

Conclusions: HCV‐infected patients showed a higher prevalence of DM and IR than those with HBV infection. However, in Japan, other confounding factors appeared to be more important risk factors for the development of disturbance in glucose metabolism.
An enormous hepatitis B virus‐related liver disease burden projected in Vietnam by 2025
Authors: Nguyen Van Thi Thuy , Law Matthew G. , Dore Gregory J.
Published: August 2010

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the major cause of chronic liver disease in Vietnam. This study aimed to estimate and project chronic HBV prevalence and HBV‐related liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for the period 1990–2025.

Method: The Vietnamese population for the period 1990–1999 was derived from census data to 1999 and from 2000 to 2025 based on projection data from the United States Census Bureau. Population chronic HBV prevalence for males and females was estimated based on age‐specific HBV prevalence from Vietnamese community‐based studies. Universal infant HBV vaccination from 2003 was assumed to reduce HBV infection by 90% in subsequent birth cohorts. Incidences of HBV‐related LC and HCC by HBV DNA levels from the Taiwanese REVEAL studies were applied to the chronic HBV population to estimate and project HBV‐related liver disease burden.

Results: Estimated chronic HBV prevalence increased from 6.4 million cases in 1990 to around 8.4 million cases in 2005 and was projected to decrease to 8.0 million by 2025. Estimated HBV‐related LC and HCC incidence increased linearly from 21 900 and 9400 in 1990 to 58 650 and 25 000 in 2025. Estimated HBV‐related mortality increased from 12 600 in 1990 to 40 000 in 2025.

Conclusion: Over the next two decades, universal infant HBV vaccination will reduce chronic HBV prevalence in Vietnam but HBV‐related liver disease burden will continue to rise. A national HBV strategy is required to address this expanding burden of liver disease.
Antimitochondrial antibody‐negative primary biliary cirrhosis: a subset of primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Liu Bin , Shi Xu Hua , Zhang Feng Chun , Zhang Wen , Gao Li Xia
Published: August 2010

Objective: Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are the hallmark in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC); nevertheless, it has long been recognized that 5–10% patients with typical features compatible with PBC do not have detectable AMA, and they were referred to as ‘AMA‐negative PBC’. This study aimed to evaluate whether AMA‐negative/positive PBC represents different clinical entities.

Methods: We compared the clinical, laboratory, percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in peripheral blood, liver biopsy features and response to treatment of the two groups of patients. The first group was comprised of 12 patients with ‘AMA‐negative PBC’. The second was made up of another 12 PBC patients with positive AMA.

Results: Antimitochondrial antibodies‐negative/positive patients were remarkably similar in terms of clinical manifestations, liver biochemistries and histological findings. The frequency of anti‐nuclear antibodies, anti‐smooth‐muscle antibody, anti‐gp210 and anti‐sp100 antibody showed no significant difference between the two groups. A significantly lower mean percentage of CD4+CD25high T cells was observed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of AMA‐negative/positive PBC patients compared with that of the 12 control subjects (5.8±1.8 and 5.4±1.4% vs. 7.6±1.7% respectively; P=0.014 and 0.004). However, no difference could be found between AMA‐negative and AMA‐positive PBC patients (P=0.599). After 1 year treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid, the two groups showed similar response.

Conclusion: Antimitochondrial antibody‐negative/positive PBC patients are similar in clinical, laboratory, percentage of Treg in peripheral blood, liver biopsy features and response to treatment. This suggests that AMA‐negative PBC may be a variant of AMA‐positive PBC rather than a separate clinical entity.
Renal hepatitis C in the absence of detectable serum or hepatic virus
Authors: Fowell Andrew J. , Sheron Nicholas , Rosenberg William M. C.
Published: August 2010

We report an apparently unique case where hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA was identified in renal tissue from a patient with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and treated chronic hepatitis C, despite the absence of detectable virus in the serum or liver (COBAS Amplicor qualitative assay, lower limit of detection 50 IU/ml). The implications of this finding are discussed, with particular reference to current concepts regarding ‘occult’ hepatitis C infection.
Zinc modulates lithium‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Chadha Vijayta Dani , Bhalla Punita , Dhawan Devinder Kumar
Published: August 2010

Aim: The present study explored the hepatoprotective role of zinc in lithium‐induced hepatotoxicity.

Methods: Rats received either lithium treatment in diet at a dose level of 1.1 g/kg diet, zinc alone at a dose level of 227 mg/L in drinking water, and combined lithium plus zinc or drinking water alone for different time durations of 1, 2 and 4 months. This study explored the hepatic marker enzymes, antioxidant status and histopathological investigations in the liver of rats following different treatments.

Results: The activities of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were found to be elevated significantly following 2 and 4 months of lithium treatment. Lithium‐treated rats showed a significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase and a significant inhibition in the levels of reduced glutathione, catalase and glutathione‐S‐transferase, following 2 and 4 months of treatment. However, zinc co‐administration revealed significant improvement in the altered activities of hepatic marker and antioxidant enzymes in comparison with lithium‐treated animals. Lithium‐treated rats also indicated drastic alterations in hepatic histoarchitecture and zinc co‐administration resulted in improvement in the structure of hepatocytes.

Conclusion: The present study suggests the protective potential of zinc in lithium‐induced hepatotoxicity.
Atorvastatin induces apoptosis by a caspase‐9‐dependent pathway: an in vitro study on activated rat hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Aprigliano Isabella , Dudas Joszef , Ramadori Giuliano , Saile Bernhard
Published: August 2010

Background: Statins are shown to have cholesterol‐independent properties such as anti‐inflammation and immunomodulation. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) acquire the capacity to synthesize matrix proteins in damaged liver. We tested the hypothesis that atorvastatin may be capable of inducing apoptosis in HSCs.

Methods: Primary cultures of rat HSCs were exposed to atorvastatin, mevalonic acid and U0126. Quantification of living, apoptotic and necrotic HSCs was performed by flow cytometry and laser‐scan microscopy. Cell‐cycle analysis was performed by flow cytometry. Pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic factors were investigated by Western blot and electrophoresis mobility shift assay. Protease activity of caspases was calculated using a colorimetric kit.

Results: Atorvastatin leads to a G2‐arrest and induces apoptosis in activated HSCs. Atorvastatin‐mediated apoptosis could be blocked by co‐administration of mevalonic acid and U0126. No effects of atorvastatin on gene expression of CD95, CD95L, NF‐κB, p53 and p21WAF1 could be observed. Atorvastatin‐induced apoptosis in activated HSCs is related to an increased protease activity of caspase‐9 and ‐3. Gene expression of the major proteins of the bcl‐system shows that truncated Bid is involved in apoptosis mediated by atorvastatin. By blocking the extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) activation by adding U0126, we could prevent the apoptosis induced by atorvastatin. By Western blot we could not detect any change in the activation of c‐jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK).

Conclusions: Atorvastatin induces apoptosis in activated HSCs acting through an ERK‐dependent cleavage of Bid and a highly increased protease activity of caspase‐9 and ‐3. JNK is not involved in atorvastatin‐mediated apoptosis in HSCs.
Cardiotrophin‐1 enhances regeneration of cirrhotic liver remnant after hepatectomy through promotion of angiogenesis and cell proliferation
Authors: Yang Zhen Fan , Lau Chi Keung , Ngai Patricia , Lam Shuk Pik , Ho David W. , Poon Ronnie Tung‐Ping , Fan Sheung Tat
Published: August 2010

Background/Aim: Hepatic resection is not applicable to a certain proportion of hepatocellular carcinoma patients owing to an insufficient liver function reserve. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of cardiotrophin‐1 (CT‐1) on improving the function of CCl4‐induced cirrhotic liver remnant after major hepatectomy.

Methods: CT‐1 was administered to rats after hepatectomy according to different protocols.

Results: A double‐dose CT‐1 protocol improved liver function, enlarged the volume of liver remnant, upregulated the expression of von Willebrand factor and increased the number of BrdU+ or Ki‐67+ hepatocytes. Administration of CT‐1 enhanced the expression of nuclear factor‐κB (P65), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CyclinD1 and p42/44 in the liver remnant. However, the effects of CT‐1 were blocked by a VEGF receptor blocker, PTK787. Although the expression of gp130, a receptor of CT‐1, was downregulated in the diseased hepatocytes isolated from the cirrhotic liver, CT‐1 could still stimulate the cell proliferation. CT‐1 administration enhanced the expression of P65 and VEGF in the diseased hepatocytes, but the augmented P65 and VEGF expression was blocked by PTK787 administration.

Conclusion: Short‐term administration of CT‐1 could improve the function of cirrhotic liver remnant and stimulate liver regeneration through promotion of angiogenesis and cell proliferation.