bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saliva Secretion in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Elad Sharon , Heisler Stela , Shalit Meir
Published: August 2006

Background: Allergic rhinitis is manifested by watery discharge; however its clinical effect on the watery volume in the oral cavity is unknown. In addition, the low incidence of dry mouth due to treatment with the new generation antihistamines is based on subjective patients’ reports only. This study aimed to examine the effect of loratadine and fexofenadine on the salivary gland function in patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis compared to untreated allergic patients and healthy individuals. Methods: A comparative observational study assessed parameters related to the patients’ perception of dry mouth as well as clinically observed parameters in fexofenadine-treated patients (group A) and in loratadine-treated patients (group B). Allergic patients without pharmacological treatment (group C) and healthy individuals (group D) served as a double control in order to evaluate the effect of allergy itself on dry mouth. A total of 36 patients were enrolled. Results: Patients in groups A and C reported the highest intensity of xerostomia. Sialometry values were significantly lower in these 2 groups compared to the healthy controls (p = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively). Average sialometry was over 0.2 ml/min in all groups and subjective dry mouth sensation ranged in the lower quarter of the visual analogue scale. Conclusions: In this pilot study, patients diagnosed with allergy presented a significant difference in salivary flow rate compared to healthy controls. Unlike the effect of loratadine, fexofenadine-treated patients showed significantly lower salivary flow rates compared to healthy individuals. In all cases the intensity of dry mouth was low.
No Effect of Anti-Interleukin-5 Therapy (Mepolizumab) on the Atopy Patch Test in Atopic Dermatitis Patients
Authors: Oldhoff J.M. , Darsow U. , Werfel T. , Bihari I.C. , Katzer K. , Laifaoui J. , Plötz S. , Kapp A. , Knol E.F. , Bruijnzeel-Koomen C.A.F.M. , Ring J. , de Bruin-Weller M.S.
Published: August 2006

Background: The atopy patch test (APT) is an in vivo model to study the induction of eczema by inhalant allergens in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients. Mepolizumab is a monoclonal antibody to interleukin-5, which reduces peripheral blood eosinophils. Previously, we reported that mepolizumab treatment did not result in clinical improvement in AD. The current study investigates the effect of mepolizumab therapy on the APT in the same patients. Methods: Mepolizumab treatment was given at days 0 and 7 in a double-blind placebo-controlled design. The APT was applied at days –2, 0, 14 and 28. Clinical evaluation of each APT was conducted 48 h after application at days 0, 2, 16 and 30. Skin biopsies were taken at days 0, 2 and 16 for eosinophil counts. Results: The mepolizumab-treated group showed no significant reduction in macroscopic outcome of the APT. Tissue eosinophils were reduced in the mepolizumab-treated group at day 16 compared with placebo; however, this was not significant. Conclusion: Mepolizumab therapy cannot prevent the eczematous reaction induced by the APT. Furthermore, the influx of tissue eosinophil numbers in the APT is not significantly inhibited after mepolizumab treatment compared with placebo, despite a significant reduction in peripheral blood eosinophils.
Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice Over-Expressing Human Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 1 Are Protected against Aneurysm Formation but Not against Atherosclerotic Plaque Development
Authors: Cuaz-Pérolin Clarisse , Jguirim Imen , Larigauderie Guilhem , Jlassi Awatef , Furman Christophe , Moreau Martine , Chapman M. John , Fruchart Jean-Charles , Slimane Mohamed Naceur , Mezdour Hafid , Rouis Mustapha
Published: August 2006

Aims: We investigated the effect of plasma levels of human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (hTIMP)-1 on arterial lesion development and aneurysm formation in apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice (ApoE–/–). Methods: Control and transgenic mice were fed either a chow diet or a high-fat diet for 90 and 180 days. Results: hTIMP-1 has a tendency to decrease atherosclerotic lesions, but did not attain significance (approximately 6% reduction in hTIMP-1+/+, p = 0.075, and approximately 4% in hTIMP-1+/0, p = 0.088 vs. control). Immunohistological and histological analyses revealed a reduction in macrophage accumulation (23% of control in hTIMP+/0, p = 0.065, and 49% of control in hTIMP+/+, p < 0.05) but not in collagen degradation within the lesion in transgenic mice. Moreover, elastin degradation in sites of pseudo-microaneurysms was reduced in transgenic mice (37% of control in hTIMP-1+/0, p < 0.05, and 50% of control in hTIMP-1+/+, p < 0.05). DNA array analysis of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression followed by real-time PCR quantification revealed a significant up-regulation of MMP-3, MMP-12 and MMP-13 in arterial lesions of ApoE–/– mice fed a high-fat diet in comparison with the same mice fed a chow diet. Conclusion: These data show that hTIMP-1 reduces aneurysm formation in ApoE–/– mice but does not protect them against the development of arterial lesions.
Rapid Disappearance of an Endothelial Ulceration in the Left Main Coronary Artery
Authors: Bokhari Ismail A.H. , Bokhari Ravia , Alpert Joseph S.
Published: August 2006

A case is presented of a 65-year-old male who presented with an acute anterior wall myocardial infarction. An initial coronary angiogram demonstrated an ulcerated atherosclerotic plaque in the left main coronary artery. After 48 h of aggressive medical therapy including a 2b3a glycoprotein blocking agent, repeat angiography demonstrated resolution of the ulcerated plaque. The process of atherosclerotic plaque rupture is of dynamic nature.
Both Nitric Oxide and Endothelin-1 Influence Cerebral Blood Flow Velocity at Rest and after Hyper- and Hypocapnic Stimuli in Hypertensive and Healthy Adolescents
Authors: Katona Éva , Settakis Georgios , Varga Zsuzsa , Juhász Mária , Paragh György , Bereczki Dániel , Fülesdi Béla , Páll Dénes
Published: August 2006

Background and Purpose: Nitric oxide (NO)/endothelin imbalance may play a role in the regulation of cerebral blood flow. The aim of the present study was to assess whether these endothelial factors influence middle cerebral artery blood flow velocities (MCAV) and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) in healthy and hypertensive adolescents. Subjects and Methods: 106 adolescents (61 hypertensive and 45 normotensive) underwent transcranial Doppler measurements of the middle cerebral artery at rest and after 30 s of breath-holding (BH) and 60 s of hyperventilation (HV). Additionally, NO and endothelin-1 (ET-1) concentrations of the serum were assessed. The correlation between NO and ET-1 levels as well as MCAV and CVR values was analyzed. Results: Resting MCAVs were higher among hypertensive teenagers (76.5 ± 24 vs. 62.8 ± 15.6 cm/s, respectively, p < 0.001). CVR values did not differ between hypertensive and healthy adolescents after the BH and HV procedure. A significant negative correlation was found between absolute MCAV values and NO concentrations. ET-1 was positively related to MCAV. Conclusions: Cerebral blood flow velocities, but not CVR values, are associated with serum NO and ET-1 concentrations in adolescents.
Cardiac Structure and Apnea/Hypopnea Index in Patients with Arterial Hypertension and Excessive Weight
Authors: Nunes José Pedro L. , Oliveira Nuno Pardal
Published: August 2006

Background/Aims: Arterial hypertension is frequently associated with sleep apnea, excessive weight, and with changes in the echocardiographic characteristics of the left cardiac chambers. The present investigation was conducted in order to search for a possible relation between left cardiac structure and sleep apnea magnitude in patients with arterial hypertension and excessive weight. Methods: A group of 56 patients with arterial hypertension and mean body mass index of 30.6 ± 3.8 (weight in kilograms/height in meters squared) was studied by echocardiography, sleep study and electrocardiography. Results: A relatively high mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was found (17.9 ± 17.2 episodes/h sleep), but this parameter was not found to be correlated with cardiac echocardiographic diameters. Patients with an AHI <5 episodes/h had smaller mean values for left atrial diameter, left ventricular mass index and left ventricular relative wall thickness, when compared to patients with an AHI value of ≧5. The mean corrected QT interval was found to be longer in female patients, whereas left ventricular end-diastolic diameter was smaller than in male patients. Conclusion: In patients with arterial hypertension and excessive weight, significant apnea seems to be very common. In such patients, left ventricle wall thickness, left ventricle mass index and the left atrium diameter may act as surrogate markers for significant sleep apnea. Thus, the hypothesis is raised that hypoxia may lead to changes in heart structure.
Fenoldopam Improves Corticomedullary Oxygen Delivery and Attenuates Angiogenesis Gene Expression in Acute Ischemic Renal Injury
Authors: Aravindan Natarajan , Samuels Joshua , Riedel Bernhard , Shaw Andrew
Published: August 2006

Background/Aims: Vasoactive compounds are known to affect intrarenal hemodynamics and gene transcription, but specific effects of fenoldopam in the setting of acute renal ischemia are not known. We utilized a rat model of acute ischemic nephropathy to test the hypothesis that fenoldopam improves corticomedullary tissue oxygen tension (PtO2) and attenuates angiogenesis gene expression in acute renal ischemia. Methods: Rats anesthetized with 50 mg/kg urethane were divided into 4 groups (n = 6 each): (1) sham with infusion of 0.9% saline; (2) sham with infusion of 0.1 µg·kg–1·min–1 fenoldopam; (3) unilateral renal ischemia followed by 6 h of reperfusion with saline, and (4) ischemia/reperfusion with fenoldopam. Renal artery blood flow (RBF), renal cortical perfusion (RCP), and PtO2 were recorded throughout. Total RNA from left kidneys was used to probe microarrays. Gene expression was measured as percent positive control (GAPDH) and confirmed using RT-PCR. Results: Fenoldopam significantly increased RBF (p < 0.05), RCP (p < 0.01) and PtO2 (p <0.01) in both non-ischemic and post-ischemic kidneys. Fenoldopam attenuated 11 of the 13 ischemia-induced genes and 44 of 78 ischemia-suppressed genes. This attenuation was statistically significant (p <0.05) for five genes. Conclusion: Data from this rat model of ischemic nephropathy suggest that fenoldopam improves intrarenal hemodynamics and attenuates ischemia-related changes in angiogenesis gene expression.
Measurement of PTH Fragments for Assessment of Renal Bone Disease in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Fehr Thomas , Garzoni Daniela , Staub Tanja , Binet Isabelle , Wüthrich Rudolf P.
Published: August 2006

Background: Renal bone pathology involves a spectrum from ‘high-turnover’ to ‘low-turnover bone disease’ (adynamic bone disease, classical osteomalacia). The diagnosis of the latter usually requires bone biopsy. Inhibitory parathyroid hormone (PTH) fragments may be useful for its noninvasive diagnosis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in 54 patients on chronic hemodialysis which involved measurements of intact PTH (iPTH; Nichols assay), total PTH (tPTH; Scantibodies assay), and the cyclase-activating PTH fragment (CAP). The level of cyclase-inactive PTH fragment (CIP) was calculated. At the same time, serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels as well as the current therapy for secondary hyperparathyroidism were recorded. In selected patients, bone radiographs were evaluated for osteitis fibrosa. Results: A high correlation (r = 0.94) was found between iPTH and tPTH, with the tPTH levels being lower by 30–40%. A similar association was also found for CAP (r = 0.988) and for CIP (r = 0.93). 3 out of the 54 patients had a CAP/CIP ratio of ≤1 which has been associated with adynamic bone disease. A higher CIP ratio was significantly associated with the use of aluminum-hydroxide- and calcium-containing phosphate binders. Conclusions: iPTH and tPTH assays are highly correlated. In a general hemodialysis patient population, low-turnover bone disease appears to be rare, when the CAP/CIP ratio is used as a marker. A high CIP value was associated with therapy using aluminum hydroxide, a drug known to carry a risk of adynamic bone disease.
Comparative Effects of the Addition of Mutton or Beef to a Bean Seed Ragout on Iron Status in Growing Rats
Authors: Chabchoub-Ellouze Soufia , Hamdaoui Mohamed Hédi
Published: August 2006

Aims: The objective was to compare the effects of the addition of mutton or beef to a bean seed ragout (BSR) on iron status in growing rats. In addition, we have studied the possible interference of fat from mutton on iron status because this type of animal contains a high amount of subcutaneous fat. Methods: The iron status was investigated through the exploration of the total iron in the blood and the reserve of iron stored in the liver, spleen, intestine, heart and tibia. Results: Our findings showed that the iron concentration in the total blood significantly increased in the BSR + beef (reference group), an increase of 23% (p < 0.008) as compared to the control group (BSR). However, it significantly decreased in BSR + mutton and BSR + mutton fat groups by 23% and 30%, respectively. The reserve of iron stored in the liver and intestine significantly increased only in the BSR + beef group by 69.5% and 120% (p < 0.01), respectively. Therefore, this reserve was lower in the BSR + mutton or mutton fat groups than BSR + beef group. The iron content in the tibia significantly increased only in the BSR + beef group, an increase of 88% (p < 0.05). However, it was unchanged or decreased in the BSR + mutton and mutton fat groups as compared to the control group. Only, the reserve of iron stored in the spleen significantly increased in all groups. In the heart, our results demonstrated no significant increase of the iron level among all the groups. Conclusion: This preliminary study suggested that mutton, in contrast to beef, has a small or negative effect on the iron status. This negative effect might be related to the high fat, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids content in mutton.
Anti-Atherosclerotic Effect of a New Synthetic Functional Oil Containing Mono- and Diacylglycerol from Corn Oil
Authors: Cho Kyung-Hyun , Han Jong-Min , Jeong Tae-Sook , Kim Hyoung-Chin , Lee Jong-Ho , Lee Jeung-Hee , Lee Ki-Teak
Published: August 2006

Synthetic oil containing diacylglycerol and monoacylglycerol, called ‘functional oil’ (FO), was newly produced and evaluated for its putative anti-atherosclerotic potential by in vitro assays and in vivo test using hypercholesterolemic mice (C57BL/6). The FO revealed good inhibitory activities against both liver acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase and serum lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2. The FO showed enhanced activities on lipoprotein interaction such as HDL particle rearrangement to produce different sizes of HDL species. In control mice, hypercholesterolemia was induced by consumption of high-cholesterol, high-fat (HCHF) diet that contained 1.25% cholesterol/15% fat/0.5% Na-cholate with or without 5% of corn oil. In experimental mice, 5% of the FO + HCHF diet was fed during the same period. After the 4-week administration of the diet, serum total cholesterol concentration of the FO-fed group decreased by 38 or 20% when compared to the HCHF diet control group or corn oil (99.9% of triacylglycerol) diet group, respectively. The percentage of HDL cholesterol to total cholesterol was 36% of HDL cholesterol in the FO-fed group, while the HCHF control group and corn oil-fed group showed 21 and 25%, respectively. These results indicate that the FO possesses a blood cholesterol-lowering effect in mouse model and inhibition effects against the atherogenic enzymes.
Actions of Short-Term Fasting on Human Skeletal Muscle Myogenic and Atrogenic Gene Expression
Authors: Larsen A.E. , Tunstall R.J. , Carey K.A. , Nicholas G. , Kambadur R. , Crowe T.C. , Cameron-Smith D.
Published: August 2006

Background: Skeletal muscle mass is governed by multiple IGF-1-sensitive positive regulators of muscle-specific protein synthesis (myogenic regulatory factors which includes myoD, myogenin and Myf5) and negative regulators, including the atrogenic proteins myostatin, atrogin-1 and muscle ring finger 1 (MuRF-1). The coordinated control of these myogenic and atrogenic factors in human skeletal muscle following short-term fasting is currently unknown. Method: Healthy adults (n = 6, age 27.6 years) undertook a 40-hour fast. Skeletal muscle biopsy (vastus lateralis) and venous blood samples were taken 3, 15 and 40 h into the fast after an initial standard high-carbohydrate meal. Gene expression of the myogenic regulator factors (myoD, myogenin and Myf5) and the atrogenic factors (myostatin, atrogin-1 and MuRF-1) were determined by real-time PCR analysis. Plasma myostatin and IGF-1 were determined by ELISA. Results: There were no significant alterations in either the positive or negative regulators of muscle mass at either 15 or 40 h, when compared to gene expression measured 3 h after a meal. Similarly, plasma myostatin and IGF-1 were also unaltered at these times. Conclusions: Unlike previous observations in catabolic and cachexic diseased states, short-term fasting (40 h) fails to elicit marked alteration of the genes regulating both muscle-specific protein synthesis or atrophy. Greater periods of fasting may be required to initiate coordinated inhibition of myogenic and atrogenic gene expression.
No Benefit of Hemodiafiltration over Hemodialysis in Lowering Elevated Levels of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine in ESRD Patients
Authors: Kalousová Marta , Kielstein Jan T. , Hodková Magdaléna , Zima Tomáš , Dusilová-Sulková Sylvie , Martens-Lobenhoffer Jens , Bode-Boger Stefanie M.
Published: August 2006

Background: It has been suggested that hemodiafiltration (HDF) is more efficient than hemodialysis (HD) in lowering plasma levels of the endogenous nitric oxide synthase inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), which is a strong and independent predictor of overall mortality in ESRD patients. Methods/Patients: Twenty ESRD patients (11 women) were studied during both a single online HDF session and a single HD session. In each patient, ADMA, L-arginine, SDMA, β2-microglobulin and urea were measured at several time points. Results: Although HDF was clearly superior to HD in decreasing plasma β2-microglobulin, there was no difference in the elimination characteristics of ADMA. However, HDF but not HD eliminated the nitric oxide synthase substrate L-arginine, making HD superior in increasing the L-arginine/ADMA ratio. Conclusion: Neither HD nor HDF sufficiently removes the putative uremic toxin ADMA. The clinical significance of HD better improving the L-arginine/ADMA ratio (parameter of NO production) as compared to HDF needs to be determined.
Cardiac Vascular Calcification and QT Interval in ESRD Patients: Is There a Link?
Authors: Di Iorio Biagio R. , Bortone Sara , Piscopo Carmine , Grimaldi Pellegrino , Cucciniello Emanuele , D’Avanzo Ernesto , Mondillo Fiorentino , Cillo Nicola , Bellizzi Vincenzo
Published: August 2006

We will present our experience and our preliminary data about the correlation between cardiac calcification and QT interval (and QT dispersion) in uraemia. We studied 32 haemodialysis (HD) patients (age 69 ± 16 years, time on dialysis 32 ± 27 months) and 12 chronic kidney disease stage 4 (CKD-4) patients (age 66 ± 17 years, uraemia duration 38 ± 16 months). The patients were characterized by a good mineral control, as shown by serum phosphate levels (3.6 ± 1.3 mg/dl in CKD-4 and 4.3 ± 1.6 mg/dl in HD patients) and Ca × P product (46 ± 17 and 49 ± 16 mg2/dl2, respectively). The parathyroid hormone levels were higher in HD than CKD-4 patients (p < 0.0001). A TC score >400 was found to be highly prevalent in both groups. Significantly more HD patients (62.5%) showed cardiac calcification than CKD-4 patients (33%; p = 0.01). The patients were matched for TC scores higher or lower than 400. The two groups differed by gender (p < 0.05), age (p = 0.026), frequency of diabetes mellitus (p < 0.01), uraemia follow-up period (p < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (p = 0.009), Ca × P product (p = 0.002), parathyroid hormone level (p < 0.0001), and corrected QT dispersion (p < 0.0001). The QT interval was higher in HD and CKD-4 patients with higher TC scores (approximately 11%), but QT interval dispersion was significantly higher in patients with TC scores >400. QT dispersion showed a linear correlation with TC scores in both groups (r = 0.899 and p < 0.0001 and r = 0.901 and p < 0.0001). Male gender, age, time (months) of uraemia, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, albumin, calcium × phosphorus product, parathyroid hormone, and TC score are important determinants of QT dispersion. Our data show that it is possible to link dysrhythmias and cardiac calcification in uraemic patients.
Development of a Neuropsychological Battery for the Leukoaraiosis and Disability in the Elderly Study (LADIS): Experience and Baseline Data
Authors: Madureira Sofia , Verdelho Ana , Ferro José , Basile Anna-Maria , Chabriat Hugues , Erkinjuntti Timo , Fazekas Franz , Hennerici Michael , O’Brien John , Pantoni Leonardo , Salvadori Emilia , Scheltens Philip , Visser Marieke C. , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Waldemar Gunhild , Wallin Anders , Inzitari Domenico
Published: August 2006

The relationship between age-related white matter changes and cognitive performance in independent elderly people is still not clear. The Leukoaraiosis and Disability in the Elderly study (LADIS) involves 11 European centers. It aims to assess the role of the age-related white matter changes as an independent factor in the transition to disability, and in cognitive performance of an independent elderly population. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery was constructed in order to harmonize the cognitive assessment across countries. Patients were evaluated at baseline and during the 3-year follow-up with the Mini-Mental State Examination, a modified version of the VADAS-Cog (Alzheimer’s Dementia Assessment Scale plus tests of Delayed recall, Symbol digit, Digit span, Maze, Digit cancellation and Verbal fluency), Trail making and Stroop test. Six hundred thirty-eight patients (mean age 74 ± 5 years; mean educational level 10 ± 4, F/M: 351/287) were included in this study. Neuropsychological data were analyzed test by test and also grouped in three compound measures (executive, memory and speed/motor control domains). Older subjects (>74 years) performed significantly worse than younger subjects on the ADAS-Mod and on the tests of memory (t631 = 3.25; p = 0.001), executive functions (t581 = 4.68; p = 0.001) and speed/motor control (t587 = 4.01; p = 0.001). Participants with higher educational level (>8 years of school) showed better performances on the compound measures for memory (t631 = 3.25; p = 0.001), executive functions (t581 = 4.68; p = 0.001) and speed/motor control (t587 = 4.01; p = 0.001). Using multiple regression analysis models to study the influence of demographic variables on cognitive performance, age and education remained important variables influencing test performance. In the LADIS population baseline data, older age and lower educational levels negatively influence neuropsychological performance.
Carotid Atherosclerosis Is Associated with Brain Atrophy in Japanese Elders
Authors: Kin Tesseki , Yamano Shigeru , Sakurai Ritsuro , Kajitani Miyuki , Okahashi Yumiko , Nishiura Noriko , Saito Yoshihiko , Ueno Satoshi
Published: August 2006

Background: The relation between atherosclerosis and brain atrophy remains unclear in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Objective: This study was performed to clarify the relation between brain atrophy and carotid atherosclerosis. Methods: A total of 142 patients (78 women and 64 men, mean age 74 years) with no neurologic disturbances were studied. Brain atrophy was evaluated on the basis of the brain atrophy index (BAI, BAI = brain parenchyma/intracranial space A 100%), calculated by means of digitized computed tomographic scans obtained at the level of the basal ganglia. Carotid atherosclerosis was evaluated on the basis of the plaque score (PS), defined as the sum of all plaque heights in both carotid arteries, intima-media thickness (IMT), and vessel diameter (VD) of the common carotid artery as assessed by ultrasonography. Results: Age negatively correlated with BAI in both men (r = –0.587, p < 0.001) and women (r = –0.724, p < 0.001). PS of the carotid artery also negatively correlated with BAI in men (r = –0.502, p < 0.001) as well as women (r = –0.480, p < 0.001). VD and IMT of the right carotid artery negatively correlated with BAI in women (VD; –0.256, p < 0.05, IMT; –0.216, p < 0.05) but not in men. Other characteristics were unrelated to BAI. Multiple regression analysis showed that age and PS were independent predictors of brain atrophy in both sexes. The percentage of variance of BAI values explained by this model in women (51.9%) was much greater than that in men (35.5%). Conclusion: Carotid atherosclerosis may be a useful morphological index of brain atrophy.
Increase in Core Body Temperature of Alzheimer’s Disease Patients as a Possible Indicator of Chronic Neuroinflammation: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Klegeris Andis , Schulzer Michael , Harper David G. , McGeer Patrick L.
Published: August 2006

Background: Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Increased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels have been reported in the brain and cerebro-spinal fluid of individuals affected by this neurodegenerative disorder. These same cytokines, including interleukin -1, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, are also believed to be involved in thermoregulation. Furthermore, their effects are thought to be mediated through the induction of cyclooxygenases resulting in increased production of inflammatory prostaglandins. Such increases have been observed in AD brains. We hypothesized that these increased levels of inflammatory mediators could lead to an increase in core body temperature in AD patients. Objective: To determine whether clinical signs of AD are accompanied by an increase in core body temperature. Methods: Analysis of the scientific literature identified six studies that used continuous rectal measurements of core body temperature in AD and control patients. Meta-analysis was performed on these published data. Results: Meta-analysis showed that the mean core body temperature in AD patients was significantly increased by 0.10°C when compared to healthy elderly subjects. The two-sided p value was 0.0355, and the 95% confidence interval was 0.0068–0.1950. The severity of AD pathology did not appear to contribute significantly (p = 0.235) to the heterogeneity in the core body temperature among different groups of AD patients. Conclusion: The significant increase in core body temperature in AD patients could be a direct consequence of local inflammatory reactions in the brain. Although the changes observed are probably too small to be of any diagnostic value, these observations lend further support to the neuroinflammatory hypothesis of AD pathology.
The Effect of Functional Tasks Exercise and Resistance Exercise on Health-Related Quality of Life and Physical Activity
Authors: de Vreede Paul L. , van Meeteren Nico L. , Samson Monique M. , Wittink Harriet M. , Duursma Sijmen A. , Verhaar Harald J.
Published: August 2006

Background: Data regarding the effect of exercise programmes on older adults’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and habitual physical activity are inconsistent. Objective: To determine whether a functional tasks exercise programme (enhances functional capacity) and a resistance exercise programme (increases muscle strength) have a different effect on the HRQOL and physical activity of community-dwelling older women. Methods: Ninety-eight women were randomised to a functional tasks exercise programme (function group), a resistance exercise programme (resistance group), or normal activity group (control group). Participants attended exercise classes three times a week for 12 weeks. The SF-36 Health Survey questionnaire and self-reported physical activity were obtained at baseline, directly after completion of the intervention (3 months), and 6 months later (9 months). Results: At 3 months, no difference in mean change in HRQOL and physical activity scores was seen between the groups, except for an increased SF-36 physical functioning score for the resistance group compared with the control group (p = 0.019) and the function group (p = 0.046). Between 3 and 9 months, the self-reported physical functioning score of the function group decreased to below baseline (p = 0.026), and physical activity (p = 0.040) decreased in the resistance group compared with the function group. Conclusions: Exercise has a limited effect on the HRQOL and self-reported physical activity of community-living older women. Our results suggest that in these subjects HRQOL measures may be affected by ceiling effects and response shift. Studies should include performance-based measures in addition to self-report HRQOL measures, to obtain a better understanding of the effect of exercise interventions in older adults.
Biliopancreatic and Pancreatobiliary Refluxes in Cases with and without Pancreaticobiliary Maljunction: Diagnosis and Clinical Implications
Authors: Kamisawa Terumi , Okamoto Atsutake
Published: August 2006

The sphincter of Oddi is located at the distal end of the pancreatic and bile ducts and regulates the outflow of bile and pancreatic juice. A common channel can be so long that the junction of the pancreatic and bile ducts is located outside of the duodenal wall, as occurs in pancreaticobiliary maljunction; in such cases, the action of the sphincter does not functionally affect the junction. Thus, biliopancreatic and pancreatobiliary refluxes occur, resulting in various pathological conditions in the biliary tract and in the pancreas. Biliopancreatic reflux could be confirmed by operative or postoperative T tube cholangiography, computed tomography combined with drip infusion cholangiography, histological detection of gallbladder cancer cells in the main pancreatic duct, and reflux of bile on the cut surface of the pancreas. Pancreatobiliary reflux could be diagnosed on the basis of an elevated amylase level in the bile, secretin-stimulated dynamic magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, and pancreatography via the minor duodenal papilla. Recently, it has become obvious that these refluxes can occur in individuals without pancreaticobiliary maljunction. Biliopancreatic reflux is related to the occurrence of acute pancreatitis, and pancreatobiliary reflux might be related to biliary carcinogenesis even in some individuals without pancreaticobiliary maljunction. Since few systemic studies exists with respect to diagnostic imaging techniques and clinical relevance of these refluxes in individuals with a normal pancreaticobiliary junction, further prospective clinical studies including appropriate management should be performed.
Subtype of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Progression to Dementia and Death
Authors: Yaffe Kristine , Petersen Ron C. , Lindquist Karla , Kramer Joel , Miller Bruce
Published: August 2006

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a common cognitive state between normal cognitive aging and dementia. There is limited information about the heterogeneity of MCI and how this heterogeneity may influence the clinical course of MCI. We determined the longitudinal course of subtypes of MCI and assessed the rate of progression to dementia and to death. Methods: As part of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers of California, we studied 327 patients with MCI (250 with amnestic MCI, 34 with single nonmemory MCI, and 43 with multiple domain MCI) who were followed longitudinally. We determined if subtype of MCI was independently associated with time to dementia diagnosis and time to death using Cox proportional hazard models, and type of dementia using Fisher’s exact test. Results: Mean age of the patients with MCI was 72.9 ± 9.3 years and mean Mini-Mental State Examination score was 25.7 ± 4.3. After a mean follow-up of 3.1 years, 199 (65%) progressed to dementia and 80 (24%) died. After multivariate adjustment, compared to those with amnestic MCI, patients with single nonmemory or multiple subtype MCI were less likely to receive a diagnosis of dementia (HR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.35–1.05 and HR = 0.71; 95% CI 0.44–1.14) but more likely to die (HR = 2.57; 95% CI 1.13–5.84 and HR = 1.73; 95% CI 0.72–4.18), but these results were of borderline statistical significance. There were significant differences in the type of dementia diagnosed across MCI subtypes (p = 0.006). Among the patients who progressed to Alzheimer’s disease, 76% had prior amnestic MCI; of the patients who progressed to vascular dementia, 50% had prior amnestic MCI; all patients who progressed to a frontal dementia syndrome had single nonmemory MCI previously. Conclusions: The majority of patients with MCI progressed to dementia and a significant proportion died. Subtype of MCI may influence rates of progression to death and to dementia and has a major influence on subsequent type of dementia diagnosis.
Prostaglandin D2 Induces IL-8 and GM-CSF by Bronchial Epithelial Cells in a CRTH2-Independent Pathway
Authors: Chiba Takahito , Kanda Akira , Ueki Shigeharu , Ito Wataru , Kamada Yumiko , Oyamada Hajime , Saito Norihiro , Kayaba Hiroyuki , Chihara Junichi
Published: August 2006

Background: Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), a major prostanoid produced by activated mast cells, has long been implicated in allergic diseases. PGD2 demonstrates its effects through two G-protein-coupled receptors, DP and CRTH2. The PGD2/CRTH2 system mediates chemotaxis of eosinophils, basophils, and Th2 cells, which are involved in the induction of allergic inflammation. Although recent studies have shown that the specific receptors for PGD2, DP, and CRTH2 are expressed in various human tissues, the role of PGD2 is unknown in human bronchial epithelial cells. In this study, we investigated the expression and function of CRTH2/DP on NCI-H292 and NHBE cells. Method: The CRTH2/DP expression was examined by RT-PCR and flow-cytometric analysis. NCI-H292 and NHBE cells were cultured in the presence of various stimulants. The resulting supernatants were measured by ELISA. Results: We demonstrated that PGD2 induced production of IL-8 and GM-CSF in NCI-H292 and NHBE cells. DK-PGD2 (CRTH2 agonist) and latanoprost (FP, a prostaglandin F receptor, agonist) failed to augment the production of these cytokines. Pretreatment with ramatroban (CRTH2 antagonist) and AL8810 (FP antagonist) did not reduce the production of these cytokines. The PGD2-induced cytokine production was inhibited by pertussis toxin or specific inhibitors for MAP/ERK kinase (PD98059) and p38 MAP kinase (SB202190). Conclusion: These results suggest that PGD2 is a potent inducer of IL-8 and GM-CSF production with MAP/ERK and p38 MAP kinase activation, but this is independent of CRTH2 activation.
Short-Term Administration of a Cell-Permeable Caveolin-1 Peptide Prevents the Development of Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension and Right Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Jasmin Jean-François , Mercier Isabelle , Dupuis Jocelyn , Tanowitz Herbert B. , Lisanti Michael P.
Published: August 2006

Background—Caveolins (Cavs), the principal structural proteins of caveolar microdomains, have been implicated in the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Mice with homozygous deletion of the Cav-1 gene develop PH and right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH). Reductions in pulmonary Cav-1 expression have been shown in several animal models of PH and in patients with severe PH. Whether in vivo modulation of Cav-1 expression could affect the development of PH and RVH remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effect of in vivo administration of a Cav-1 mimetic peptide on the development of monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PH.

Methods and Results—Thirty minutes after injection of saline or 60 mg/kg MCT, rats were assigned to receive a daily injection of saline, a peptide corresponding to the homeodomain of theDrosophilatranscription factorantennapedia(AP; 2.5 mg · kg−1· d−1), or a peptide consisting of the Cav-1–scaffolding domain coupled to AP (AP-Cav; 2.5 mg · kg−1· d−1) for 2 weeks. MCT and MCT+AP rats developed PH with respective right ventricular systolic pressures of 40.2±1.5 and 39.6±1.5 mm Hg. Administration of AP-Cav to MCT rats significantly reduced the right ventricular systolic pressure to 30.1±1.3 mm Hg. MCT and MCT+AP rats also developed pulmonary artery medial hypertrophy and RVH, which was normalized by administration of AP-Cav. Mechanistically, the development of PH was associated with reduced expression of pulmonary Cav-1 and Cav-2, hyperactivation of the STAT3 signaling cascade, and upregulation of cyclin D1 and D3 protein levels, all of which were prevented by administration of AP-Cav.

Conclusions—Short-term administration of a Cav-based cell-permeable peptide to MCT rats prevents the development of pulmonary artery medial hypertrophy, PH, and RVH.
Effect of Celecoxib on Cardiovascular Events and Blood Pressure in Two Trials for the Prevention of Colorectal Adenomas
Authors: Solomon Scott D. , Pfeffer Marc A. , McMurray John J.V. , Fowler Rob , Finn Peter , Levin Bernard , Eagle Craig , Hawk Ernest , Lechuga Mariajosé , Zauber Ann G. , Bertagnolli Monica M. , Arber Nadir , Wittes Janet
Published: August 2006

Background—

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors have been shown to reduce colorectal adenomas but have been associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

Methods and Results—

The Adenoma Prevention With Celecoxib (APC) trial studied celecoxib 200 mg twice daily and 400 mg twice daily and the Prevention of Spontaneous Adenomatous Polyps (PreSAP) trial used 400 mg once daily to test the efficacy and safety of celecoxib against placebo in reducing colorectal adenoma recurrence after polypectomy. An independent safety committee for both studies adjudicated and categorized serious cardiovascular events and then combined individual patient data from these long-term trials to improve the estimate of the cardiovascular risk and blood pressure changes associated with celecoxib compared with placebo. For adjudicated cardiovascular events, 77% and 54% in APC and PreSAP, respectively, had 37 months of follow-up. For APC and PreSAP combined, 83 patients experienced cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or heart failure. The hazard ratio for this prespecified composite end point was 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 6.1) in patients taking 200 mg twice daily, 3.4 (95% CI, 1.5 to 7.9) in patients taking 400 mg twice daily in APC, and 1.3 (95% CI, 0.6 to 2.6) in patients taking 400 mg once daily in PreSAP (
P
for heterogeneity=0.13 comparing the combined doses in APC with the dose in PreSAP). The overall hazard ratio for this composite end point was 1.9 (95% CI, 1.1 to 3.1). Both dose groups in APC showed significant systolic blood pressure elevations at 1 and 3 years (200 mg twice daily: 1 year, 2.0 mm Hg; 3 years, 2.6 mm Hg; 400 mg twice daily: 1 year, 2.9 mm Hg; 3 years, 5.2 mm Hg); however, the 400 mg once daily group in PreSAP did not (
P
<0.0001 between studies).

Conclusions—

Celecoxib at 200 or 400 mg twice daily or 400 mg once daily showed a nearly 2-fold–increased cardiovascular risk. The trend for a dose-related increase in cardiovascular events and blood pressure raises the possibility that lower doses or other dose intervals may be associated with less cardiovascular risk.
Liminal Lives
Authors: Sargent Carolyn F. , Larchanché-Kim Stéphanie
Published: August 2006

Strategies of state surveillance shape the construction of migrant identities in France. Focusing on migrants from the Senegal River Valley in West Africa, the authors suggest that ideological and institutional constraints concerning legal status and family reunification create a shifting world of unstable identities for these migrants. The fall 2005 riots across France have been widely cited as an illustration of the failure of the French model of immigrant integration. Restrictive legislation since 1975 has challenged gender relations in migrant communities. The gendered production of immigrant identities merits special attention; women's and men's diverse experiences require differing strategies of adjustment. During the past 30 years, anti-immigrant discourse/practice has effectively contested the state policy of integration and its emphasis on achieving nationality as the ultimate immigrant objective. The gendered strategies of West African migrants demonstrate that state polices have created a new category of migrants whose everyday lives seem permanently in transition.
Migrant Mirrors
Authors: Castellanos Erick
Published: August 2006

Based on fieldwork in Bergamo, Italy, this research examines how foreign immigrants use the dominant ideologies found in Italy to negotiate their place within the community. Historically, political culture in Italy has been characterized by the ideological polarization of society into the Communist world and the Catholic world. In the past decade, a third ideological camp has emerged to challenge the other two: localism. These divisions transcend the realm of politics into all aspects of Italian social life. Consequently, foreign immigrants need to identify and incorporate these ideologies into their lives as a strategy for survival in their new environment.
“But they claimed to be police, not la migra!”
Authors: Adler Rachel H.
Published: August 2006

In Chambersburg, a neighborhood in Trenton, New Jersey, an ethnic transition is under way. Just several decades ago, the district was a solidly Italian enclave. Today, the few remaining Italians must contend with an influx of new immigrants from Latin America. The transition from Italian to Latino has been infused with conflict that is not immediately obvious but rather lingers just under the surface. Add to this already tense situation the activities of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which has been conducting frequent immigration raids, banging on doors with deportation orders for individual Guatemalans in the wee hours of the morning. This article explores the implications of residency status in a post–PATRIOT Act United States and argues that it is fundamental to understanding ethnic relations both among migrants from different nations and between immigrants and nonimmigrants.
The New Indians
Authors: Bhalla Vibha
Published: August 2006

This article looks at the processes of identity formation among Indian immigrants in the United States in the decade of the 1970s. Using letters to the editor of the expatriate Indian newspaper India Abroad, the article draws attention to two themes of identity formation. The first theme focuses on Indian immigrants' attempts at forming a pan-Indian identity in the United States that was markedly different from India; this identity excluded ethnic, religious, or caste affiliations. Although this attempt failed, Indian immigrants were successful in formulating a religious pan-Indian identity. The second theme draws attention to discourse among the Indian community regarding becoming a racial/ethnic minority in the United States.
Women about Town
Authors: Kaul Shonaleeka
Published: August 2006

Most historiographical attempts to draw on early Indian narrative literary works, specifically kāvyas, for insights into the past remain circumscribed either by the apprehension that such literature contains conventional, idealized and stereotyped descriptions that are historically sterile, or by the very opposite tendency to take these descriptions at face value and come up with uncritical, historically thin accounts. Diverging from both these approaches, this article proceeds with the proposition that kāvyas are a potentially rich and complex source of history, provided these are handled in ways sensitive to literary logic. Working in the main with a number of classical Sanskrit kāvyas, this article explores the representation of feminine character types textually located in the city. Of these, the gaṇikā and the kulastrī provide a useful frame of binaries to unravel the extraordinary literary grasp of patriarchal constructs, as well as contradictions and contraventions, worked into the treatment of apparently stereotyped female characters. The courtesan is an object of both public celebration and condemnation; the family woman that of respectability and confinement, but she may also find surreptitious release. Together they signify multiple, criss-crossing sexual roles and attitudes played out in an urban context.
The Transformation of African Academies of Science: The Evolution of New Institutions
Authors: Michelson Evan S.
Published: August 2006

Over the past few years, a push to reverse the overall paltry state of science academies in the developing world has emerged as a central theme in numerous reports and has garnered the attention of a variety of organizations, including The National Academies in the United States. In particular, the establishment and maintenance of well-organized and functioning national academies of science throughout Africa is becoming an increasingly essential and crucial element of their overall prospects for development. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to analyze the particular institutional traits and characteristics related to African science academies—including their small member-ships, lack of finances, little experience with policy advising, and worries about government backlash—and to argue that, because of these factors, these institutions must work to find suitable activities that will allow them to leverage whatever resources they do have to become effective policy advisors for government.
Cyclic Gun–Human Evolution: Soldiers, Guns, Machine Logic, and the Future
Authors: Blackmore Tim
Published: August 2006

Guns, slug-throwing weapons, have evolved as humans have increased their grasp of the mechanical arts. In the near future, however, it seems likely that soldiers' rifles operating at punishing cyclic rates of fire face the limits of physics and materials science— heat and speed will cost accuracy and distance. This article considers not only the near future of the personal weapon carried by soldiers in battlespace but also the rifle's evolution as an index of alterations in 20th-and 21st-century war fighting. The arc traced by multiple-fire weapons, from the Gatling to the laser rifle, is a narrative of humans, machinery, and their cocreative symbiotic relationship. This article begins by examining some current examples of late-generation rifles and their imagined futures, continues by pursuing the linkages between guns and soldiers, and finally asks what new guns will mean for soldiers being born now.
Bad Bedfellows: Disability Sex Rights and Viagra
Authors: Wentzell Emily
Published: August 2006

The disability rights movement grounds material critiques of the treatment of people with disabilities in a social constructionist perspective, locating disability in the social rather than physical realm, and demedicalizing the concept of disability. However, this conceptualization is threatened by the medicalization of nonnormative erections as the biomedical pathology erectile dysfunction (ED). Although use of medical treatments for ED can have positive outcomes for individuals, the medical community's tendency to include sexual difference in the rubric of disability threatens to remedicalize that category. Furthermore, medicalized conceptions of ED often serve to refocus sexuality around phallocentric, normative sex acts and gender roles, undoing the deconstructive work of disability sex studies. Finally, although aging Western populations targeted for ED treatment represent potentially expanded bases for disability movement activism, the pathologizing of nonnormative sexuality may have the power to instead focus this group on individualistic use of medical interventions geared toward “normalcy.”