bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Existential Concerns in Families with Huntington's Disease
Authors: Huniche Lotte
Published: February 2009

This article takes its point of departure from a qualitative study of the personal conduct of everyday life in Danish families at risk for Huntington's Disease (HD). The study focused on how awareness and understanding of the personal implications of HD arise in everyday life and among family members and how concrete life conditions and personal relations unfold and change over time in the context of present-day genetic knowledge and technology. In this article theoretical insights from existential psychology shed light on how existential concerns arise in lives marked by HD. A critique is directed at clinically orientated and psychoanalytically inspired existential psychology for staging specific existential concerns as ontological preconditions. These theories tend to decontextualize and individualize the understanding of the person in opposition to theoretical positions within the broader tradition of existential philosophy, and other constructivist and research-orientated areas of existential psychology. As a consequence, existential concerns are likely to be understood and handled as `inner-self' projects, particularly in the context of psychotherapy, rather than as relational concerns that arise in concrete circumstances.
Noonan syndrome associated with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lisbona MP , Moreno M , Orellana C , Gratacos J , Larrosa M
Published: February 2009

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a developmental disorder characterised mainly by cardiac defects and craniofacial dysmorphia. An association between NS and some autoimmune diseases, such as thyroiditis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), has been suggested. We report the case of a 28-year-old man with a diagnosis of NS and autoimmune hypothyroidism who developed symptoms and immunologic features of SLE.
Systemic lupus erythematosus and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome in an Italian patient
Authors: Monteferrante G , Giani M , van den Heuvel MC
Published: February 2009

Systemic lupus erythematosus has not yet been associated with mutations in the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome gene; moreover, the time courses of platelet number and size in patients with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome are unknown. In this case, we present the time trends of platelet count and volume and the histopathology of the kidney of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and a mutation in the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome gene. The patient suffered from congenital recessive X-linked thrombocytopenia, and he developed systemic lupus erythematosus at the age of 12 years. Thus, his disease was reclassified as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, class 5. The g.257G > A mutation in the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome gene and reduced expression of the specific messenger were revealed by molecular analyses.
Clinical, biological and ultrasonographic remission in a patient with musculoskeletal systemic lupus erythematosus with rituximab
Authors: Torrente-Segarra V , Lisbona-Pérez MP , Rotes-Sala D , Castro-Oreiro S , Carbonell-Abelló J
Published: February 2009

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multiorganic autoimmune disease that affects skin, osteoarticular and kidney frequently. Rituximab showed efficacy in treatment of osteoarticular and haematological SLE, but its use has been generalised for renal disease. In our case, we showed efficacy of rituximab in SLE articular disease, showing an ultrasonographic improvement.
The ethyl acetate extract of alfalfa sprout ameliorates disease severity of autoimmune-prone MRL-lpr/lpr mice
Authors: Hong YH , Huang CJ , Wang SC , Lin BF
Published: February 2009

Previous study showed that soy isoflavone supplement alleviates disease severity in autoimmune-prone mice. As the ethyl acetate extract of alfalfa sprout (AS) has selective oestrogenic and anti-inflammatory activity, this study evaluated the effects of alfalfa sprout ethyl acetate extract (ASEA) on disease severity of systemic lupus erythematosus, using autoimmune-prone female MRL- lpr/lpr mice. In Experiment 1, five groups of 12-week-old female mice were per oral treated with vehicle (control), lyophilized AS (550 mg wt/kg BW), ASEA (ASEA, 25 mg/kg BW), coumestrol (CUM, 0.075 mg/kg BW) and tamoxifen (TAM, 0.375 mg/kg BW) as the positive control. The onset of proteinuria was delayed, and the life span was significantly longer in the ASEA and TAM groups but neither in the AS nor in the CUM groups, compared to the control. To examine the changes in the immunological parameters related to disease process, three more groups of MRL- lpr/lpr female mice (control, ASEA and TAM) were fed in a similar manner for 6 weeks in the Experiment 2. Flow cytometric analysis of splenocytes showed a significantly lower percentage of activated T cells in the ASEA and TAM groups. The ex-vivo interferon-γ and interleukin (IL)-4 production from splenocytes and tumour necrosis factor-α and IL-1β production from peritoneal exudate cells were also significantly lower in the ASEA group compared with the control. The ASEA group also had less severe glomerulonephritis. Thus, ASEA attenuated cytokine and inflammatory responses of self-reactive lymphocytes, decreased the disease severity, increased survival and life span of the autoimmune-prone MRL- lpr/lpr mice, suggesting a potential of ASEA in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Raised expression of cytokine receptor gp130 subunit on peripheral lymphocytes of patients with active lupus. A useful tool for monitoring the disease activity?
Authors: De La Torre M , Urra JM , Blanco J
Published: February 2009

The glycoprotein gp130 is a signal traducing subunit with a membrane domain of the IL-6 receptor. In addition, gp130 is shared among the receptors for IL-6 superfamily, and it is critically involved in generating signal transduction through these receptors. The aim of the study is to evaluate the expression of the IL-6 superfamily receptor molecule gp130 on TCD4+ and B cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Surface expression of gp130 on TCD4+ and B lymphocytes was higher in patients with SLE than in healthy controls (2.79 vs 0.36% and 8.36 vs 0.37%, respectively). Patients with active lupus had higher expression of gp130 (relapsed 15.1%, new onset 26.6%) than stable patients (2.83%), in B-cell subset, but not in TCD4 lymphocytes. An important reduction in the gp130 expression on B lymphocytes was observed when the activity of the disease had disappeared after readjusting its immunosuppressive treatment (20.8–3.8%). In addition, there was significant correlation between the activity of the disease, measured like systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index score, and surface expression of gp130 in lymphocytes B ( rs = 0.5880, P = 0.0002). According with our results and roc curve analysis, a cut-off in 6.7% of B cells with gp130 expression were defined, who discriminates active/stable SLE with a sensitivity of 0.93 and a specificity of 0.75. In conclusion, there is an altered expression of gp130 in the patients with SLE. The disease activity as well as immunotherapy seems to influence the pattern of expression of gp130 on B-cell subsets in patients with SLE.
Systemic lupus erythematosus pregnancies: a case series from a tertiary, East Malaysian hospital
Authors: Teh CL , Wong JS , Ngeh NKN , Loh WLH
Published: February 2009

We performed a retrospective study of all systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pregnancies during a two-year period (2006–2007) to describe the clinical features, maternal and foetal outcomes in our centre. There were 17 pregnancies in 16 women with SLE. Our patients have a mean age of 28.31 years (SD 5.24) and a mean disease duration of 38.62 months (SD 38.03). Our patients have complicated pregnancies: 35.3% have SLE flares, 21.1% have preeclampsia and 47.4% needed caesarean sections. There were 15.8% foetal losses and 12.5% preterm deliveries in our patients. All the foetal losses occurred in patients with severe SLE flares during pregnancies. Lupus pregnancies in our centre generally have a good maternal and foetal outcome comparable with developed countries. The low incidence of antiphospholipid syndrome, the high usage of hydroxychloroquine and the high SLE remission rate in our patients before conceptions are the possible factors contributing to the good outcome.
Chloroquine –Induced Hair Depigmentation
Authors: Di Giacomo TB , Valente NYS , Nico MMS
Published: February 2009

A case of hair depigmentation induced by chloroquine diphosphate subacute overdosage in an 11-year-old patient with dermatomyositis is presented. Normal coloured hair growth occurred after normalisation of chloroquine dosage. A discussion on possible pathomechanisms of this phenomenon is made based on experimental data and previously reported patients with the same condition.
Stiffness parameters, intima-media thickness and early atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Cacciapaglia F , Zardi EM , Coppolino G , Buzzulini F , Margiotta D , Arcarese L , Vadacca M , Amoroso A , Afeltra A
Published: February 2009

Detection of early carotid vascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is considered mandatory for evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis (ATS), and various ultrasonographic (US) parameters have been proposed. In the present investigation, 33 SLE and 33 healthy age-matched females have been studied by colour-coded sonography of the common carotid artery, assessing intima-media thickness (IMT), vascular strain (VS), vascular distensibility (VD), vascular stiffness (VSf) and pressure-strain elastic modulus (PSEM) as possible markers of early ATS. Patients with SLE, despite equivalent exposure to “traditional” cardiovascular risk factors, presented a higher mean IMT of the common carotid artery than healthy subjects (0.7 ± 0.2 mm vs 0.5 ± 0.1 mm – P < 0.0001). Of the stiffness parameters, patients with lupus showed a mean VSf of 0.72 ± 0.38 vs 0.54 ± 0.14 in controls ( P < 0.0001) and a mean PSEM of 6.0 ± 2.8 Pa vs 3.0 ± 1.4 Pa in controls ( P < 0.0001). Mean VS and VD were significantly lower in patients with SLE than in healthy subjects ( P < 0.0001). Among individuals with IMT < 0.6 mm, patients with SLE presented more compromised stiffness parameters. IMT was shown to be a useful parameter in the evaluation of vascular damage, even in a “sub-clinical” phase, while stiffness parameters provide additional details regarding endothelial and vessel functional state. Combined evaluation may allow ATS to be detected in the early stages in patients with SLE.
Ultra Low-cost Adaptations of Electro-mechanical Impedance Technique for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Bhalla Suresh , Gupta Ashok , Bansal Sahil , Garg Tarun
Published: February 2009

This article outlines new low-cost hardware set-ups as viable substitutes for conventionally employed cost-intensive impedance analyzers/LCR meters for implementation of the electro-mechanical impedance (EMI) technique for SHM/NDE. The proposed solutions warrant basic low-cost equipment, such as function generator and digital multimeter, which are commonly available in most laboratories. Unlike the case of impedance analyzers/LCR meters, only the absolute admittance (i.e., magnitude) is measured. A simple computational approach is outlined for effective utilization of the absolute admittance function for SHM after filtering the passive component. Comparison of results with LCR measurements shows that the measurement accuracy of the proposed set-up is fairly good, repeatability excellent, and the damage sensitivity comparable to that of the cost-intensive conventional hardware. The proposed adaptation is, therefore a suitable candidate for the widespread industrial applications of the EMI technique.
Testing Protocols
Authors: Stepans Mary Beth Flanders , Wilhelm Susan L. , Rodehorst T. Kim , Smith Derek , Weinert Clarann
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this study is to evaluate collection, transport, and storage protocols of urine and air allergen samples from infants in a rural setting. Infant urine and aeroallergen samples ( n = 21) are collected in the home setting in rural areas where time and distance to the central laboratory is a consideration. Urine samples are analyzed using ELISA tests after being transported using three different techniques: (a) ambient temperature, (b) dry ice, and (c) packaged on dry ice and shipped commercially. Following initial ELISA testing for levels of cytokines, urine samples are frozen at -70 degrees Celsius for 6 months. Samples are then reanalyzed for levels of cytokines. Dust samples are analyzed for levels of aeroallergens, stored at 4 degrees for 6 months, and reanalyzed. The integrity of samples varies by biomarker, shipment temperature, and storage time, creating a high degree of variability in results.
Warm Climates and Sonority Classes
Authors: Munroe Robert L. , Fought John G. , Macaulay Ronald K. S.
Published: February 2009

Previous research has shown that speakers in warm-climate languages make use of relatively more vowels, and speakers in cold-climate languages relatively more consonants. The high sonority (audibility) of the vowel, and its adaptive value under certain conditions, have been invoked to account for its greater frequency in warmer climates. We show here, however, that the above generalization is over-broad, and that sound classes vary across climate zones in complex ways. One new finding is that speakers in warm-climate languages make more use of the so-called “sonorant” consonants, that is, consonants with some of the qualities of vowels. We offer a provisional framework that continues to find value in the concept of sonority and its relation to climate, but attempts to incorporate the new results and provide a more comprehensive explanation.
Heparin-induced Thrombocytopenia in Two Patients Undergoing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery
Authors: Sugimoto Takaki , Matsuo Takefumi , Wanaka Keiko
Published: February 2009

We have experienced 2 cases of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia during unfractionated heparin treatment for disseminated intravascular coagulation after surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. In the first case, as a symptom of disseminated intravascular coagulation gradually improved with antithrombin concentrates and heparin treatment, mesenteric artery thrombosis suddenly occurred, associated with a >50% decrease in platelet count on the 11th day. Although the platelet counts were increasing due to heparin cessation, clinical symptom and coagulation abnormalities worsened to multiple organ failure. In the second case, the platelet count decreased to <10 × 104/µL on the 13th day after the start of unfractionated heparin anticoagulation along with continuous hemodiafiltration, which was indicated for postoperative renal failure. The extracorporeal circuit clotted frequently under an adequate dose of unfractionated heparin. Serologically, heparin—platelet factor 4 complex antibodies were repeatedly detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Argatroban, a direct thrombin inhibitor, was introduced as an alternative to unfractionated heparin, and the platelet count improved with a decrease in titers of the antibodies. Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a common complication in cases of abdominal aortic aneurysm and is usually treated in association with unfractionated heparin. It is important to recognize the onset of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia that acute declines in the platelet count and appearance of thrombosis with positive for heparin—platelet factor 4 complex antibodies would suddenly occur in clinical course of disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Book Review
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jacki
Published: February 2009

Book reviewed in this article:

Hernández‐Sheets, R. (2005). Diversity Pedagogy: Examining the Role of Culture in the Teaching‐Learning Process (1st ed.)
Book Review
Authors: Koivunen Julie M.
Published: February 2009

Book reviewed in this article:

Pipher, M. (2002). The Middle of Everywhere: Helping Refugees Enter the American Community
Cultural Diversity and Non‐Western Course Content in Interior Design Education
Authors: Sohoni Ashutosh
Published: February 2009

The Council for Interior Design Accreditation's professional standards for accreditation requires that graduates draw on the experience of diverse cultures as part of the learning processes. Interior design education has failed to address issues of cultural diversity in human population. Dominated by Eurocentric ideas, it has reinforced generalizations that devalue the role of non‐Western social, cultural, aesthetic, and other creative traditions that shape the built environments. This introductory article, based on the author's experience as a designer and educator, draws attention to an understudied area of cultural diversity and interior design pedagogy. It argues that the consequences of not being meaningfully diverse may result, not only in the loss of social and cultural capital but also economic opportunities for current and future designers.
Reverse Acculturation: A New Cultural Phenomenon Examined Through an Emerging Wedding Practice of Korean Americans in the United States
Authors: Kim Younghee , Park Sung‐Yeon
Published: February 2009

Relatively recent Korean immigration to the United States has brought a new development in acculturation, which is recognized asreverse acculturation. The term is coined here for the first time to refer to the cultural practice wherein a fully acculturated U.S.‐born minority member introduces the heritage culture to the U.S. society. At the individual level, the cultural development goes from full assimilation/integration to incorporation/reinforcement of heritage culture. At the societal level, the cultural exchange starts at the center of the host society instead of its periphery. Global exchange, advanced computer and communication technology, and multiculturalism in the United States are identified as the facilitators. As an example, reverse acculturation is illustrated here via wedding ceremonies of some Korean Americans who integrate part of traditional Korean wedding with conventional Western wedding. As fully acculturated members of the mainstream U.S. society, these young Korean Americans learn their heritage culture through international travels and advanced communication channels such as the Internet; they then introduce the heritage culture to their non‐Korean spouse and family. The implications of reverse acculturation are further discussed for teaching, research, and practice of family and consumer sciences.
Art as a Mode of Action
Authors: Morphy Howard
Published: February 2009

This article is a dialogue with the theoretical arguments of Alfred Gell's book Art and Agency. While strongly supporting an action-oriented perspective on art it is argued that Gell's argument deflects attention away from human agency by attributing agency to the objects themselves. It is argued that the very properties of art that Gell excludes from his definition of art objects and largely from his analyses — aesthetics and semantics — are integral to understanding art as a way of acting in the world and to understanding the impact that art works have on people.
Your Trash Is Someone's Treasure
Authors: Reno Joshua
Published: February 2009

This article discusses scavenging and dumping as alternative approaches to deriving value from rubbish at a large Michigan landfill. Both practices are attuned to the indeterminacy and power of abandoned things, but in different ways. Whereas scavenging relies on acquiring familiarity with an object by getting to know its particular qualities, landfilling and other forms of mass disposal make discards fungible and manipulable by stripping them of their former identities. By way of examining the different ways in which people become invested in the politics of value at the landfill, whether as part of expressions of gender and class or for personal enjoyment, different comportments toward materiality are revealed to have underlying social and moral implications. In particular, it is argued that different approaches to the evaluation of rubbish involve competing understandings of human and material potential.
Just a Lobbyist?
Authors: Varela Diego
Published: February 2009

The role of the European Parliament (EP) under the consultation procedure has been widely neglected by rational choice models of legislative decision-making in the European Union (EU). This paper offers a new understanding of the procedure by means of a computational model in which lobbyists provide legislators with policy options. Transaction costs of assimilating information lead to rationing of access to the agenda-setter (i.e. the Commission). In this context, consultation converts the EP into an indirect channel to the agenda-setter for some lobbyists. I argue that the resulting pool of policy options, together with the right to be heard by the Commission and the latter's degree of rational ignorance, provides the EP with a legislative power that the literature has not so far recognized. The implications of this finding extend to other legislative procedures of the EU and to consultative committees in other political systems.
Asylum Cooperation among Asymmetric Countries
Authors: Czaika Mathias
Published: February 2009

This article argues that cooperation to tackle the consequences of large asylum migration inflows is possible only among fairly symmetrical countries. Highly asymmetric countries have no incentives to join and remain in a stable coalition. The distinction between cost and spillover asymmetries shows that financial transfers may release constraints on participation, and thus make asylum cooperation feasible, only if they are focused on tackling this asymmetry. This result becomes relevant when applied to the context of the enlarged European Union. I argue that there is the potential for a future cooperative burden-sharing regime for asylum, particularly if unanimity is replaced by the double majority principle in European Council votes, as suggested in the EU reform treaty.
EEG Markers Discriminate Among Different Subgroup of Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Moretti D.V. , Pievani M. , Geroldi C. , Binetti G. , Zanetti O. , Rossini P.M. , Frisoni G.B.
Published: February 2009

Aim of the study is to discriminate among participants with mild cognitive impairment through electroencephalography brain rhythms. A total of 79 participants with MCI were classified into 4 subgroups based on the beginning of memory complaints up to the time of first visit. All participants underwent electroencephalography recording, magnetic resonance imaging, apolipoprotein E characterization, and volumetric morphometry estimation of hippocampal region. Electroencephalography markers show 2 distinct patterns: (1) increase of theta/ delta power ratio and highest value of alpha2 band power in the group with shorter duration of disease, the greater right-left hippocampal volume difference and worst memory performance; (2) the highest value of alpha3 band power and the highest alpha3/alpha2 power ratio in the group with the lesser total hippocampal volume but preserved memory performance. Apolipoprotein E4 is linked to a major risk of early beginning of disease. Electroencephalography markers allow a mean correct percentage of correct classification up to 89%.
A Critical Analysis of Freirean Pedagogy
Authors: Hodgkins Andrew P.
Published: February 2009

This article examines indigenous responses to oil and gas development in Canada's Northwest Territories. Drawing from the works of Paulo Freire, the role of adult educators as cultural workers engaged in political literacy is problematized in relation to Freire's pedagogy and understanding of the oppressed. Using the case of development in northern Canada, the author argues that Freire's dialectic of oppressor-oppressed and the central role ascribed to educators in his pedagogy is fraught with difficulties. Marxian class analyses are incorporated into the general rubric of Freirean thought to argue that resolution of the oppressor-oppressed dialectic is an attainable and realistic goal for those located on the margins of mainstream society.
The World at America's Doorstep
Authors: McBrien J. Lynn
Published: February 2009

Immigration trends in the United States necessitate the preparation of new K-12 teachers to teach diverse populations and to recognize the capabilities of immigrant and refugee children. Transformative learning that results from service learning offers a promising opportunity for preservice teachers to gain awareness and change their attitudes toward these children. This study examined the role of service learning where undergraduate education students tutored at a local refugee agency or elementary school. An analysis of their journal entries indicated changes in beliefs and attitudes toward refugee and other immigrant children, including the acknowledgement of their motivation and determination when confronted by challenges not faced by students born in the United States.
Interiority and Education
Authors: Hart Tobin
Published: February 2009

This article explores the concept of interiority as it relates to education and contemplation. Primarily, four general dimensions of consciousness related to learning are examined: presence, clarity, detachment, and resilience. The direct experience of these states and processes are described and explored in light of contemporary research on the neuro-physiologic correlates of various contemplative practices. This neurophenomenological approach considers the evidence and argument for the value of contemplation in education.
Toward a Global Culture of Peace
Authors: Turay Thomas Mark , English Leona M.
Published: February 2009

This article develops a model of transformative peace education that incorporates dimensions of justice and transformation, as well as insights from existing models of transformative learning. The authors begin with a discussion of the literature then move to a description of three different models (University of Peace, Costa Rica; Pearson Peace Centre, Canada; the Institute of Extra-Mural Studies, Sierra Leone). Building on the strengths and challenges of these three models, the authors propose a transformative model of peace education that has five key sensitivities: diversity, participatory learning, globalized perspectives, indigenous knowing, and spiritual underpinnings. Suggestions for how this model might be implemented conclude the discussion.
HIV-Related Liver Disease: ARV Drugs, Coinfection, and Other Risk Factors
Authors: Puoti Massimo , Nasta Paola , Gatti Francesca , Matti Alessandro , Prestini Katiela , Biasi Luciano , Carosi Giampiero
Published: February 2009

Highly-active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has proven remarkably effective for prolonging the life of patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, while most HAART agents are safe, many have the potential to cause liver toxicity. Physicians must therefore consider the possibility of drug-induced liver injury in the management of HIV-infected patients, especially those with certain risk factors such as coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), female gender, alcohol abuse, older age, or obesity. Understanding how, when, and why drug-related liver damage occurs is key to managing these patients safely and effectively. Knowledge of HAART-related liver effects will help ensure that patients receive the most benefit with the least toxicity from any given drug regimen. As more information about the mechanisms of drug related liver injury is known, clinicians will be better able to tailor therapies to suit individual situations, resulting in greater patient safety and outcomes.
Outcomes of a Remote, Decentralized Health Center-Based HIV/AIDS Antiretroviral Program in Zambia, 2003 to 2007
Authors: Elema Riekje , Mills Clair , Yun Oliver , Lokuge Kamalini , Ssonko Charles , Nyirongo Nashiola , Mtonga Velepi , Zulu Henry , Tu David , Verputten Meggy , O'Brien Daniel P.
Published: February 2009

A cross-sectional study of patients living with HIV/ AIDS treated during 2003 to 2007 in decentralized, rural health centers in Zambia was performed to measure virological outcomes after 12 months of antiretroviral therapy and identify factors associated with virological failure. Data from 228 patients who started antiretroviral therapy >12 months prior were analyzed. In all, 93% received stavudine + lamivudine + nevirapine regimens, and median antiretroviral therapy duration was 23.5 months (interquartile range 20-28). Of the 205 patients tested for viral load, 177 (86%) had viral load <1000 copies/mL. Probability of developing virological failure (viral load >1000 copies/mL) was 8.9% at 24 months and 19.6% at 32 months. Predictors for virological failure were <100% adherence, body mass index <18.5 kg/m2, and women <40 years old. Of those with virological failure who underwent 3 to 6 months of intensive adherence counseling, 45% obtained virological success. In a remote, resource-limited setting in decentralized health centers, virological and immunological assessments of patients on antiretroviral therapy >12 months showed that positive health outcomes are achievable.
High Seroprevalence But Low Incidence of HCV Infection in a Cohort of Patients With Sexually Transmitted HIV in Andalusia, Spain
Authors: Palacios Rosario , Mata Rosario , Aguilar Isabel , Muñoz Leopoldo , Ríos M. José , Vergara Salvador , Rivero Antonio , Merino Dolores , López-Cortés Luis F. , Peña Alejandro , Santos Jesús ,   Group for the Study of Viral Hepatitis of SAEI
Published: February 2009

Purpose. To analyze the prevalence and the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) seropositivity in sexually transmitted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients. Methods. Observational study of 1468 sexually transmitted HIV-infected patients from 7 hospitals (Southern Spain). Characteristics of HCV cases, and incidence of HCV seroconversion was assessed. Results. Seroprevalence of HCV was 16.1%, higher among heterosexual than homosexual patients, and similar between heterosexual men and women. Seroincidence was 0.16 cases per 100 patient-years, similar between homosexual and heterosexual patients. HCV patients had a mean CD4 of 523 cells/μL, 82.0% were on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and 72.0% had undetectable HIV viral load. Serum HCV-RNA was positive in 79.0% cases, and only 16.0% had ever received HCV treatment. Conclusions. HCV seroprevalence among sexually transmitted HIV-infected patients is more frequent than in the general population; however, incidence of HCV infection is currently low. Patients with sexually transmitted HIV coinfected with HCV have their HIV infection well controlled, but HCV infection was treated in few cases.
Anchoring of FLT3 in the endoplasmic reticulum alters signaling quality
Authors: Schmidt-Arras Dirk , Böhmer Sylvia-Annette , Koch Sina , Müller Jörg P. , Blei Lutz , Cornils Hauke , Bauer Reinhard , Korasikha Sridhar , Thiede Christian , Böhmer Frank-D.
Published: February 2009

The mechanism of cell transformation by Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is incompletely understood. The most prevalent activated mutant FLT3 ITD exhibits an altered signaling quality, including strong activation of the STAT5 transcription factor. FLT3 ITD has also been found partially retained as a high-mannose precursor in an intracellular compartment. To analyze the role of intracellular retention of FLT3 for transformation, we have generated FLT3 versions that are anchored in the perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum (ER) by appending an ER retention sequence containing a RRR (R3) motif. ER retention of R3, but not of corresponding A3 FLT3 versions, is shown by biochemical, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and immunocytochemical analyses. ER anchoring reduced global autophosphorylation and diminished constitutive activation of ERK1/2 and AKT of the constitutively active FLT3 versions. ER anchoring was, however, associated with elevated signaling to STAT3. Transforming activity of the FLT3 D835Y mutant was suppressed by ER anchoring. In contrast, ER-anchored FLT3 ITD retained STAT5-activating capacity and was transforming in vitro and in vivo. The findings highlight another aspect of the different signaling quality of FLT3 ITD: It can transform cells from an intracellular location.
The molecular signature of CD8+ T cells undergoing deletional tolerance
Authors: Parish Ian A. , Rao Sudha , Smyth Gordon K. , Juelich Torsten , Denyer Gareth S. , Davey Gayle M. , Strasser Andreas , Heath William R.
Published: February 2009

Peripheral tolerance induction is critical for the maintenance of self-tolerance and can be mediated by immunoregulatory T cells or by direct induction of T-cell anergy or deletion. Although the molecular processes underlying anergy have been extensively studied, little is known about the molecular basis for peripheral T-cell deletion. Here, we determined the gene expression signature of peripheral CD8+ T cells undergoing deletional tolerance, relative to those undergoing immunogenic priming or lymphopenia-induced proliferation. From these data, we report the first detailed molecular signature of cells undergoing deletion. Consistent with defective cytolysis, these cells exhibited deficiencies in granzyme up-regulation. Furthermore, they showed antigen-driven Bcl-2 down-regulation and early up-regulation of the proapoptotic protein Bim, consistent with the requirement of this BH3-only protein for peripheral T-cell deletion. Bim up-regulation was paralleled by defective interleukin-7 receptor α (IL-7Rα) chain reexpression, suggesting that Bim-dependent death may be triggered by loss of IL-7/IL-7R signaling. Finally, we observed parallels in molecular signatures between deletion and anergy, suggesting that these tolerance pathways may not be as molecularly distinct as previously surmised.
Comprehensive characterization of neuroblastoma cell line subtypes reveals bilineage potential similar to neural crest stem cells
Authors: Acosta Sandra , Lavarino Cinzia , Paris Raquel , Garcia Idoia , de Torres Carmen , Rodríguez Eva , Beleta Helena , Mora Jaume
Published: February 2009

Background

Neuroblastic tumors (NBT) derive from neural crest stem cells (NCSC). Histologically, NBT are composed by neuroblasts and Schwannian cells. In culture, neuroblastic (N-), substrate-adherent (S-) and intermediate phenotype (I-) cell subtypes arise spontaneously.

Methods

Here, neuroblastoma (NB) cell line subtypes were characterized according to embryonic peripheral nervous system development markers (GAP43, Phox2b, Sox10, c-kit, GD2, NF68, vimentin, S100β, calcyclin and ABCG2), morphological features, gene expression and differentiation potential. I-type cells were investigated as a bipotential (neuronal and glial) differentiation stage.

Results

Positive immunostaining of NCSC (GAP43, c-kit, NF68, vimentin and Phox2b) and undifferentiated cell (ABCG2) markers was observed in all NB subtypes. N- and I-type cells displayed cytoplasmic membrane GD2 staining, while nuclear calcyclin was restricted to S-type. N- and I-type cells showed similar phenotype and immunoreactivity pattern. Differential gene expression was associated with each cell subtype. N- and I-type cells displayed similar differentiation capacity towards neuronal and glial lineage fates. S-type cells, upon induction, did not show a neuronal-like phenotype, despite gene expression changes.

Conclusion

Results suggest that N- and I-type NB cell subtypes represent an immature bilineage stage, able to progress towards neuronal and glial fates upon induction of differentiation. S-type cells appear irreversibly committed to a glial lineage fate.
NF-κB activation by Helicobacter pylorirequires Akt-mediated phosphorylation of p65
Authors: Takeshima Eriko , Tomimori Koh , Kawakami Hirochika , Ishikawa Chie , Sawada Shigeki , Tomita Mariko , Senba Masachika , Kinjo Fukunori , Mimuro Hitomi , Sasakawa Chihiro , Fujita Jiro , Mori Naoki
Published: February 2009

Background

The inflammatory response inHelicobacter pylori-infected gastric tissue is mediated bycagpathogenicity island (PAI)-dependent activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling is known to play a role in NF-κB activation, but little information is available on the relationship betweenH. pyloriand PI3K/Akt signaling in gastric epithelial cells. We examined whetherH. pyloriactivates Akt in gastric epithelial cells, the role ofcagPAI in this process and the role of Akt in regulatingH. pylori-induced NF-κB activation.

Results

Phosphorylated Akt was detected in epithelial cells ofH. pylori-positive gastric tissues. Although Akt was activated in MKN45 and AGS cells by coculture withcagPAI-positiveH. pyloristrains, acagPAI-negative mutant showed no activation of Akt.H. pylorialso induced p65 phosphorylation. PI3K inhibitor suppressedH. pylori-induced p65 phosphorylation and NF-κB transactivation, as well as interleukin-8 expression. Furthermore, transfection with a dominant-negative Akt inhibitedH. pylori-induced NF-κB transactivation. Transfection with small interference RNAs for p65 and Akt also inhibitedH. pylori-induced interleukin-8 expression.

Conclusion

The results suggest thatcagPAI-positiveH. pyloriactivates Akt in gastric epithelial cells and this may contribute toH. pylori-mediated NF-κB activation associated with mucosal inflammation and carcinogenesis.
A case-control study of sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in Switzerland: analysis of potential risk factors with regard to an increased CJD incidence in the years 2001–2004
Authors: Ruegger Jessica , Stoeck Katharina , Amsler Lorenz , Blaettler Thomas , Zwahlen Marcel , Aguzzi Adriano , Glatzel Markus , Hess Klaus , Eckert Tobias
Published: February 2009

Background

In 2001, the observed annual mortality from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in Switzerland increased from less than 1.5 to 2.6 per million inhabitants. An underlying cause could not be identified.

Methods

To analyse potential risk factors for sCJD in Switzerland, close relatives of 69 sCJD-patients and 224 frequency age-matched controls were interviewed in a case-control study using a standardised questionnaire. 135 potential risk factors including socio-demographics, medical history, occupation and diet were analysed by logistic regression adjusting for age, sex and education.

Results

sCJD patients were more likely to have travelled abroad, worked at an animal laboratory, undergone invasive dental treatment, orthopaedic surgery, ophthalmologic surgery after 1980, regular GP visits, taken medication regularly, and consumed kidney. No differences between patients and controls were found for residency, family history, and exposure to environmental and other dietary factors.

Conclusion

Although some factors were significantly more frequent among sCJD-cases, this study did not reveal specific explanations for the increased incidence of deaths due to sporadic CJD observed in Switzerland since 2001. Results have to be interpreted with caution due to multiple testing and possible recall bias in association with a long incubation period. The most plausible reason for the increase in Swiss sCJD cases after 2000 is an improved case ascertainment. Therefore, underreporting of cases might well have occurred before the year 2001, and the "real" yearly incidence of sCJD might not be lower than, but rather above 2 per million inhabitants.
Peritoneal carcinomatosis: patients selection, perioperative complications and quality of life related to cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Glockzin Gabriel , Schlitt Hans J , Piso Pompiliu
Published: February 2009

Background

Peritoneal tumor dissemination arising from colorectal cancer, appendiceal cancer, gastric cancer, gynecologic malignancies or peritoneal mesothelioma is a common sign of advanced tumor stage or disease recurrence and mostly associated with poor prognosis.

Methods and results

In the present review article preoperative workup, surgical technique, postoperative morbidity and mortality rates, oncological outcome and quality of life after CRS and HIPEC are reported regarding the different tumor entities.

Conclusion

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) provide a promising combined treatment strategy for selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis that can improve patient survival and quality of life. The extent of intraperitoneal tumor dissemination and the completeness of cytoreduction are the leading predictors of postoperative patient outcome. Thus, consistent preoperative diagnostics and patient selection are crucial to obtain a complete macroscopic cytoreduction (CCR-0/1).
A new plasmid vector for DNA delivery using lactococci
Authors: Guimarães Valeria , Innocentin Sylvia , Chatel Jean-Marc , Lefèvre François , Langella Philippe , Azevedo Vasco , Miyoshi Anderson
Published: February 2009

Background

The use of food-grade lactococci as bacterial carriers to DNA delivery into epithelial cells is a new strategy to develop live oral DNA vaccine. Our goal was to develop a new plasmid, named pValac, for antigen delivery for use in lactococci. The pValac plasmid was constructed by the fusion of: i) a eukaryotic region, allowing the cloning of an antigen of interest under the control of the pCMV eukaryotic promoter to be expressed by a host cell and ii) a prokaryotic region allowing replication and selection of bacteria. In order to evaluate pValac functionality, the gfp ORF was cloned into pValac (pValac:gfp) and was analysed by transfection in PK15 cells. The applicability of pValac was demonstrated by invasiveness assays of Lactococcus lactis inlA+ strains harbouring pValac:gfp into Caco-2 cells.

Results

After transfection with pValac:gfp, we observed GFP expression in PK15 cells. L. lactis inlA+ were able to invade Caco-2 cells and delivered a functional expression cassette (pCMV:gfp) into epithelial cells.

Conclusion

We showed the potential of an invasive L. lactis harbouring pValac to DNA delivery and subsequent triggering DNA expression by epithelial cells. Further work will be to examine whether these strains are able to deliver DNA in intestinal cells in vivo.
Inducible mutant huntingtin expression in HN10 cells reproduces Huntington's disease-like neuronal dysfunction
Authors: Weiss Andreas , Roscic Ana , Paganetti Paolo
Published: February 2009

Background

Expansion of a polyglutamine repeat at the amino-terminus of huntingtin is the probable cause for Huntington's disease, a lethal progressive autosomal-dominant neurodegenerative disorders characterized by impaired motor performance and severe brain atrophy. The expanded polyglutamine repeat changes the conformation of huntingtin and initiates a range of pathogenic mechanisms in neurons including intracellular huntingtin aggregates, transcriptional dysregulation, energy metabolism deficits, synaptic dystrophy and ultimately neurodegeneration. It is unclear how these events relate to each other or if they can be reversed by pharmacological intervention. Here, we describe neuronal cell lines expressing inducible fragments of normal and mutant huntingtin.

Results

In HN10 cells, the expression of wild type and mutant huntingtin fragments was dependent on the induction time as well as on the concentration of the RheoSwitch®inducing ligand. In order to analyze the effect of mutant huntingtin expression on cellular functions we concentrated on the 72Q exon1 huntingtin expressing cell line and found that upon induction, it was possible to carefully dissect mutant huntingtin-induced phenotypes as they developed over time. Dysregulation of transcription as a result of mutant huntingtin expression showed a transcription signature replicating that reported in animal models and Huntington's disease patients. Crucially, triggering of neuronal differentiation in mutant huntingtin expressing cell resulted in the appearance of additional pathological hallmarks of Huntington's disease including cell death.

Conclusion

We developed neuronal cell lines with inducible expression of wild type and mutant huntingtin. These new cell lines represent a reliablein vitrosystem for modeling Huntington's disease and should find wide use for high-throughput screening application and for investigating the biology of mutant huntingtin.
Pneumococcal sepsis presenting as acute compartment syndrome of the lower limbs: a case report
Authors: Doddi Sudeendra , Singhal Tarun , Sinha Prakash
Published: February 2009

Introduction

Acute compartment syndrome is a surgical emergency requiring immediate fasciotomy. Spontaneous onset of acute compartment syndrome of the lower limbs is rare. We present a very rare case of pneumococcal sepsis leading to spontaneous acute compartment syndrome.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old Caucasian man presented as an emergency with spontaneous onset of pain in both legs and signs of compartment syndrome. This was confirmed on fasciotomy. Blood culture grew Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Conclusion

Sepsis should be strongly suspected in bilateral acute compartment syndrome of spontaneous onset.
Relapsing massive metal bezoar: a case report
Authors: Prieto-Aldape Manuel Rodrigo , Almaguer-García Francisco Issac , Figueroa-Jiménez Sandra Edith , Fernández-Díaz Oscar , Mora-Huerta José Antonio , González-Ojeda Alejandro
Published: February 2009

Introduction

Bezoars are uncommon findings in the gastrointestinal tract and are composed of a wide variety of materials. We report a case of a relapsing metal bezoar in a man with schizophrenia.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old man presented with a history of sub-acute onset of mild diffuse abdominal pain and abdominal distention. Physical examination revealed dullness to percussion in the upper and lower left quadrants. Past medical history was remarkable for epilepsy, schizophrenia and previous abdominal surgery for intestinal occlusion. Plain radiographs revealed objects of metal density contained within a dilated stomach. Celiotomy was performed revealing more than 350 metal objects inside the stomach. The patient was discharged and referred to a psychiatric facility.

Conclusion

Intestinal occlusion in patients with psychiatric disorders can result from rare causes such as bezoars. This report alerts surgeons to rule out bezoars in the differential diagnosis of intestinal occlusion in people with mental health problems.
Experimental obstructive cholestasis: the wound-like inflammatory liver response
Authors: Aller María-Angeles , Arias Jorge-Luis , García-Domínguez Jose , Arias Jose-Ignacio , Durán Manuel , Arias Jaime
Published: February 2009

Obstructive cholestasis causes hepatic cirrhosis and portal hypertension. The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the development of liver disease are multiple and linked. We propose grouping these mechanisms according to the three phenotypes mainly expressed in the interstitial space in order to integrate them.

Experimental extrahepatic cholestasis is the model most frequently used to study obstructive cholestasis. The early liver interstitial alterations described in these experimental models would produce an ischemia/reperfusion phenotype with oxidative and nitrosative stress. Then, the hyperexpression of a leukocytic phenotype, in which Kupffer cells and neutrophils participate, would induce enzymatic stress. And finally, an angiogenic phenotype, responsible for peribiliary plexus development with sinusoidal arterialization, occurs. In addition, an intense cholangiocyte proliferation, which acquires neuroendocrine abilities, stands out. This histopathological finding is also associated with fibrosis.

It is proposed that the sequence of these inflammatory phenotypes, perhaps with a trophic meaning, ultimately produces a benign tumoral biliary process – although it poses severe hepatocytic insufficiency. Moreover, the persistence of this benign tumor disease would induce a higher degree of dedifferentiation and autonomy and, therefore, its malign degeneration.