bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Neural and Mechanical Influences in Maintaining Normal Fast and Slow Muscle Properties
Authors: Ohira Yoshinobu , Yoshinaga Tomoo , Ohara Makoto , Kawano Fuminori , Wang Xiao Dong , Higo Yoko , Terada Masahiro , Matsuoka Yoshikazu , Roy Roland R. , Edgerton V. Reggie
Published: August 2006

The relative importance of neural and mechanical influences in maintaining normal slow and fast muscle properties remains unclear. To address this issue, we studied the effects of 10 days of hindlimb unloading (HU) with or without tenotomy and/or denervation on the cross-sectional area (CSA), myosin heavy chain (MHC) expression (immunohistochemistry) and composition (gel electrophoresis), and myonuclear number in soleus and plantaris fibers in adult male Wistar rats. In general, the adaptations in fiber type and size were similar using either single fiber gel or immunohistochemical analyses. HU resulted in atrophy of type I and I+IIa/x MHC fibers in the soleus and in type I, I+IIa/x, IIa/x, IIa/x+IIb, and IIb MHC fibers in the plantaris. Addition of tenotomy and/or denervation in HU rats had minimal effects on fiber CSA in the soleus, but fiber CSA in the plantaris further decreased, particularly in fibers expressing only fast MHCs. HU resulted in a de novo appearance of type I+IIa/x+IIb and IIa/x+IIb MHC fibers in the soleus and of type I+IIa/x+IIb MHC fibers in the plantaris.Tenotomy and/or denervation in HU rats had no further effect on the fiber type composition of either muscle. Mean myonuclear number/mm of type I fibers was decreased in the soleus of HU rats, and increased in type I and I+IIa/x fibers in HU plus tenotomy (HU+Ten) rats. In the plantaris, mean myonuclear number/mm of type IIa/x, IIa/x+IIb, and IIb fibers was lower after HU with or without tenotomy and/or denervation. Mean cytoplasmic volume/myonucleus ratio of type I and I+IIa/x fibers in the soleus of the HU group tended to be smaller than in controls. The largest decrease was noted in the HU+Ten group. In the plantaris, this ratio was unaffected by HU alone, but was decreased by addition of tenotomy and/or denervation when all fiber types were combined. These data indicate that the major cause of fiber atrophy and adaptations in myonuclear domain size in the slow soleus of HU rats is the chronic reduction in force generation, whereas the elimination of neuromuscular contact via denervation results in additional fiber atrophy and adaptations in myonuclear domain size in the fast plantaris.
Marsupial Hypoblast: Formation and Differentiation of the Bilaminar Blastocyst in Sminthopsis macroura
Authors: Kress Annetrudi , Selwood Lynne
Published: August 2006

Hypoblast formation in Sminthopsis macroura starts in blastocysts with a size between 1.0 and 1.4 mm, in which cells appear to be similar to each other, and finishes at the complete 2.6- or 2.7-mm bilaminar blastocyst, which is fully lined with hypoblast cells. When hypoblast cells begin allocation, the pluriblast region progressively differentiates from the trophoblast. Some pluriblast cells, which are otherwise undistinguished, lying on one side near the boundary of the circular pluriblast, move to the inside as hypoblast cells by mitosis or migration. They initially line the pluriblast and then the trophoblast. Hypoblast cells continue to leave the pluriblast/epiblast and intercalate into the underlying hypoblast layer until the advanced stages of bilaminar blastocysts. Associated with the origin of the hypoblast cells, the residual surface epiblast cells become less flatted and more cuboidal or rounded in shape. Characteristics are increased density of ribosomes, granular endoplasmic reticulum and a marked apical-basal polarity related to apical microvilli and endocytosis and more vesicles with flocculent content and a loss of the crystalloid deposits that were typical for earlier stages. Trophoblast cells become flat and elongated with only few vesicles, and they transform into extra-embryonic ectoderm cells, which are broader, rather square and with a higher density of ribosomes. Hypoblast cells are characterized by a relatively high level of ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum, fewer small vesicles and no noticeable endocytotic processes and initially form a reticulum because the cells preferentially migrate along cell-cell boundaries by extension of long filopodia. Once hypoblast cells reach the boundary of the embryonic area and extend to line the trophoblast, they progressively consolidate into a squamous epithelium. It is suggested that the origin of the hypoblast from one side of the pluriblast and its invasion under the trophoblast from proliferating centres at the edge of the embryonic area provide mechanisms for patterning epiblast, hypoblast, trophoblast and extra-embryonic ectoderm.
Muscle Growth and Fiber Type Composition in Hind Limb Muscles during Postnatal Development in Pigs
Authors: Wank Veit , Fischer Martin S. , Walter Bernd , Bauer Reinhard
Published: August 2006

Rapid postnatal development in pigs is reflected by differentiation in skeletal muscle. This process depends on muscle function and demands, but a comprehensive overview of individual developmental characteristics of quickly growing leg muscles in pigs is still missing. This study focused on the development of 10 hind limb muscles in pigs. To determine these changes in mass, fiber type patterns and fiber diameters were analyzed 0, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28, 42, 56 and 400 days after birth. Generally, the proportion of slow fibers increased from birth to 8 weeks. Thereafter, only minor changes in muscle fiber type composition were observed. The majority of the muscles contained less then 10% slow-twitch fibers at birth, increasing to between 12 (Musculus vastus lateralis) and 38% (M. gastrocnemius medialis) in adult pigs. By contrast, postural muscles already had 20–30% slow fibers at birth, and this contribution increased up to 65% in adults (i.e. M. vastus intermedius). From birth to the 2nd week, only in slow fibers could activity of oxidative enzymes be detected. A differentiation of fast-twitch fibers into subtypes with high (comparable to type IIA) and low oxidative metabolism (equivalent to type IIB) occurred between the 2nd and 4th week of life. The ratio between type II fibers with high and low oxidative enzyme activity did not change markedly through development in any muscle, although there was a trend towards an increasing proportion of type IIA fibers in the soleus. In the majority of the muscles investigated, the fast-twitch fibers with low oxidative metabolism (IIB) obtained the largest cross-sectional area. In contrast, at birth no remarkable differences in the diameter of fast and slow fibers were found. The rapid increase in muscle mass compared to body mass reflects the high performance in meat production of the cross pig investigated.
Relations between Radiograph Texture Analysis and Microcomputed Tomography in Two Rat Models of Bone Metastases
Authors: Blouin S. , Moreau M.F. , Baslé M.F. , Chappard D.
Published: August 2006

Aims: Osteolytic (Walker 256, W256) and osteoblastic (MatLyLu, MLL) metastases were induced to investigate their effect on bone architecture by microcomputed tomography (microCT) and texture analysis of radiographs. Methods: Fischer and Copenhagen rats received an intracardiac injection with W256/MLL cells, respectively. Femur and tibia radiographs were analyzed by texture analysis with run lengths and fractal algorithms. Microarchitecture was analyzed on primary and secondary spongiosa by microCT. Results: W256 and MLL induced a decrease of trabecular bone mass, a disconnection of trabeculae and an increased conversion of plates into pillars. On radiographs and 3-dimensional models of W256 rats, a disappearance of the primary spongiosa was observed. On radiographs and 3-dimensional models of MLL rats, osteolytic lesions were observed as disseminated dark areas. Run length and fractal analyses were altered in both metastases. Conclusion: W256 and MLL cells induced two different patterns of osteolysis. Texture analysis of radiographs is a useful technique to explore trabecular bone changes.
Age-Related Changes of the Human Fetal Kidney Size
Authors: Vlajkoviç Slobodan , Vasoviç Ljiljana , Dakoviç-Bjelakoviç Marija , Čukuranoviç Rade
Published: August 2006

Early prenatal diagnostics and the importance of genetic counseling are of great interest for echosonographic evaluation of normal fetus anatomy. Development of the human fetal kidney runs through a series of continual and mutually dependent changes during which the kidney obtains its morphological and functional maturity. This study was created to estimate the changes in kidney size during gestation in fetuses from the 4th to the 10th lunar month, to evaluate the dynamics of their growth, as well as to establish the validity of the volume calculated from these dimensions. Serial measurements of kidney dimensions (length, width, thickness) were performed in 110 fetuses. Photomicrographs of kidneys from the 4th, 6th, 8th and 10th lunar months are also presented. On the basis of the results obtained by our examination, we concluded that the period from the 14th to 16th week of intrauterine life is the fastest period of kidney growth during fetal development. Using the ellipsoid formula for calculating the fetal renal volume offers an underestimation of about 32–33% on average. The importance of this study lies in determining the average fetal kidney dimensions, which could be used as standard values in obstetrics.
Assessing a Non-Traditional View of Adipogenesis: Adipocyte Dedifferentiation – Mountains or Molehills?
Authors: Fernyhough Melinda E. , Vierck Janet L. , Dodson Michael V.
Published: August 2006

Based on our studies we propose the following hypothesis: mature, lipid-containing adipocytes possess the ability to undergo symmetrical or asymmetrical cell division, without losing lipid. While our research to discern the mechanism(s) involved in what we have termed ‘dedifferentiation’ of adipocytes is ongoing, we have identified several roadblocks to our work in this area. However, due to the newness of this research, we believe that none of these problems discounts the potential importance of our initial observations, or the excitement of contributing knowledge in the area. In this manuscript we address some of these problems and suggest possible solutions in an attempt to make ‘molehills’ out of ‘mountains.’
The Impact of Environment in Comparison with Moderate Physical Exercise and Dietary Restriction on BDNF in the Cerebral Parietotemporal Cortex of Aged Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Strasser Alois , Skalicky Monika , Hansalik Michaela , Viidik Andrus
Published: August 2006

Background and Aims: Moderate physical exercise, dietary restriction as well as enriched environment in separate studies have been reported to delay some of the adverse effects of aging on brain function, parallel to an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In order to elucidate these influences in a comparative setting, we examined the tissue concentrations of BDNF in the cerebral parietotemporal cortex of old Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into six groups, living from 5 months (baseline group BL) up to 23 months of age as follows: voluntary running in wheels (RW), food restricted by feeding to pair weight with RW animals (PW), forced running on treadmills (TM), and sedentary controls with ad libitum access to food, either housed individually (S1) or in groups of 4 animals (S4). BDNF concentrations were determined by a commercially available ELISA. Results: We found higher BNDF concentrations in the 5 months old animals than in the 23 months old animals of group S1. The old sedentary group S4 showed significantly higher BNDF concentrations in comparison with the old individually caged groups RW, TM, PW and S1. Their BNDF concentrations were even higher than those of the young baseline group. Conclusions: Our data suggest that housing and social interactions have more influence on BDNF concentrations in the cerebral parietotemporal cortex of aging Sprague-Dawley rats than physical exercise and food restriction.
Is Anaemia a Risk Factor for Delirium in an Acute Geriatric Population?
Authors: Joosten Etienne , Lemiengre Joke , Nelis Tine , Verbeke Geert , Milisen Koen
Published: August 2006

Background/Objective: Delirium is a common clinical problem in elderly patients. We aim to investigate whether anaemia is a risk factor for delirium in a hospitalized geriatric population. Methods: During a 5-month prospective study, we investigated 190 elderly patients aged 70 years and older with a baseline Mini-Mental State Examination (short version), Confusion Assessment Method, demographic, clinical and laboratory data. Results: Thirty-four patients were identified as delirious and 95 as anaemic according to the WHO criteria. Stepwise logistic regression revealed that anaemia (haemoglobin level <12 g/l in women and <13 g/l in men), male sex and a diagnosis of dementia were independent risk factors for delirium in the total study group. After adjustment for sex, age, diagnosis of dementia and dehydration, the odds ratio (OR) for anaemia (2.4; 95 CI = 1.02–5.54) remained significantly associated with delirium. When the study population was classified in groups according to sex, anaemia remained a significant risk factor for delirium in men (OR = 3.7; 95% CI = 1.03–15.6) after adjustment for the multiple variables but not in women (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = 0.48–4.9). When the haemoglobin levels were stratified into sex-specific quartiles, the adjusted OR for delirium for men with a haemoglobin level less than 11.1 g/dl was 13.1 (95%CI = 1.17–146). Conclusion: Anaemia is an independent risk factor for delirium and adds valuable information to previously validated predictive models in men but not in women and lower haemoglobin levels were associated with higher risk levels.
Changing Relative Prevalence of Alzheimer Disease versus Non-Alzheimer Disease Dementias: Have We Underestimated the Looming Dementia Epidemic?
Authors: Ross Elliott D. , Shah Santosh N. , Prodan Calin I. , Monnot Marilee
Published: August 2006

The relative prevalence of neurodegenerative dementias in our Veterans’ Affairs dementia clinic has shifted from predominantly Alzheimer disease (AD) to predominantly non-AD diagnoses. Because our clinic was the only Veterans’ Affairs clinic in Oklahoma that could initiate cholinesterase inhibitors, we had a captured patient referral source. If future epidemiologic studies establish that non-AD dementias are as, or more, prevalent than AD, then the looming dementia epidemic in the United States will be greater in magnitude than currently predicted.
Sensory and Cognitive Association in Older Persons: Findings from an Older Australian Population
Authors: Tay Tien , Wang Jie Jin , Kifley Annette , Lindley Richard , Newall Philip , Mitchell Paul
Published: August 2006

Background: Explanations for associations found between sensory and cognitive function remain unclear. Objective: To assess in an older Australian population: (1) the correlation between sensory and cognitive function across groups with a narrow age range; (2) any independent association between sensory and cognitive impairment. Methods: We examined 3,509 non-institutionalised residents aged 50+ years in the second cross-sectional survey of the Blue Mountains Eye Study (1997–2000). Visual impairment was defined for best-corrected visual acuity (VA) <6/12 in the better eye, moderate to severe hearing loss for hearing threshold >40 dB (better ear), and likely cognitive impairment for Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) <24 points. Results: We found likely cognitive impairment in 3.3%, vision impairment in 2.7% and moderate to severe hearing loss in 10.5% of this population. Correlation between VA or hearing threshold and MMSE score increased with age. After adjusting for age, weak but significant correlation was evident in the normal ageing sample between vision and MMSE (r = 0.12 with vision items included and r = 0.11 with vision items excluded, both p < 0.0001), and between hearing thresholds and MMSE (r = –0.12, p < 0.0001). After adjusting for age, sex, education and history of stroke, persons with vision impairment had a lower mean MMSE score than those with normal vision, regardless of whether vision-related items were included (27.1 vs. 28.6, p < 0.001) or excluded (19.8 vs. 21.0, p < 0.001). Similarly, persons with moderate to severe hearing loss had a lower mean MMSE score than those without hearing loss (28.1 vs. 28.7, p < 0.001). Persons with likely cognitive impairment also had lower mean VA and higher mean hearing threshold than those without, after adjustment. Conclusions: We have documented an age-related correlation between sensory and cognitive function in a normal ageing sample. The association between sensory impairment and likely cognitive impairment remained significant after excluding vision-related MMSE items and adjusting for confounding factors. Our data suggest that age-related decline and the effect of visual impairment on the measurement of cognition only partly explain the association between sensory and cognitive impairments in older persons.
Variations in the Viral NS5B Region in Japanese Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1b Infection
Authors: Sugihara Kanji , Orito Etsuro , Tanaka Yasuhito , Kato Takanobu , Lau Johnson Y.N. , Ohno Tomoyoshi , Hayashi Katsuo , Ogino Masataka , Hirashima Noboru , Sakakibara Kenji , Mizuno Yoshiki , Kato Hideaki , Suzuki Seiji , Ueda Ryuzo , Mizokami Masashi
Published: August 2006

Objective: A recent study suggested that the substitution of amino acid 415 of HCV NS5B from phenylalanine to tyrosine in patients with HCV genotype 1a infection is induced by ribavirin and responsible for resistance to ribavirin therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether specific variations in the HCV NS5B sequence in Japanese patients with HCV genotype 1b (HCV/1b) infection are associated with treatment response or selected by treatment with interferon-α/ribavirin combination therapy. Methods: Eighteen Japanese patients with HCV/1b infection receiving interferon-α/ribavirin combination therapy for 24 weeks were studied. Five patients treated with interferon-α monotherapy for 24 weeks were also studied as controls. The entire HCV NS5B sequence before and after therapy was determined. Results: All HCV isolates had tyrosine at position 415 of NS5B before and after therapy. Further analysis showed that no specific amino acid substitutions were identified to associate with clinical response and no specific amino acid substitutions were induced/selected by the clinical treatment. Conclusion: No specific HCV NS5B nucleotide/amino acid sequence variations, including amino acid 415 of NS5B, were identified as being associated with clinical treatment response or selected by the combination therapy in Japanese patients with HCV/1b infection.
Measurement of Human Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 in the Blood Is Useful for Predicting the Occurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinomas from Chronic Hepatitis C and Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Moriyama Mitsuhiko , Matsumura Hiroshi , Shioda Jiro , Aoki Hiroshi , Nakamura Hitomi , Arakawa Yasuo , Nirei Kazushige , Yamagami Hiroaki , Kaneko Miki , Tanaka Naohide , Arakawa Yasuyuki
Published: August 2006

Objective: We measured the concentrations of serum intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1) in patients with C-viral chronic liver diseases and started prospective studies immediately thereafter, in order to determine whether the concentration of sICAM-1 is useful for predicting the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) following C-viral chronic hepatitis (CH) and liver cirrhosis (LC). Methods: We studied 74 patients with CH, 18 with LC, and 28 patients with HCC who visited our institute from 1993 through 1996. All were positive for hepatitis C virus RNA in the blood. The concentrations of sICAM-1 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The expression of ICAM-1 in the liver was detected by indirect immunoperoxidase staining. Results: The concentrations of sICAM-1 were significantly higher in patients with LC and HCC than in patients with CH. The sICAM-1 concentrations were high in patients whose platelet counts were low. ICAM-1 in the liver was localized to the endoplasmic reticulum or the membrane of cancer cells. The cumulative rate of occurrence of HCC from CH or LC was significantly higher in the high-sICAM-1 group (>400 ng/ml) than in the low-sICAM-1 group. Multivariate analysis revealed that elevation of the sICAM-1 concentration is a significant risk factor for the occurrence of HCC. Conclusion: Evaluation of the sICAM-1 concentration is useful for prediction of the occurrence of HCC in patients with C-viral CH or LC.
Long-Term Follow-Up of HBeAg-Positive Young Adult Japanese Patients Treated with Corticosteroid Withdrawal Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Sezaki Hitomi , Suzuki Fumitaka , Hosaka Tetsuya , Akuta Norio , Someya Takashi , Kobayashi Masahiro , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Saitoh Satoshi , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: August 2006

Objectives: To evaluate the long-term effects of corticosteroid withdrawal therapy (CSWT) in young adult Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis B (CH-B) virus infection. Methods: The subjects were 106 patients with CH-B who received CSWT, were less than 35 years of age and had been followed for more 10 years after CSWT. Results: Retreatment was not required in 41 patients (38.7%; retreatment(–) group) while 65 (61.3%) received treatment after the initial CSWT (retreatment(+) group). Larger proportions of patients of the retreatment(–) group were females, had liver histology stage F2/F3, high ICG R15, and genotypes A/B/D/E, compared with the retreatment(+) group. At the last follow-up examination, the HBeAg seronegative rate was 90.2% in the retreatment(–) group and 98.5% in retreatment(+) group. In the retreatment(–) group, the rate of liver cirrhosis (LC; 7.3%, 3 patients) was lower, but the rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 12.2%, 5 patients) was higher than in the retreatment(+) group (20%, 13 patients, and 4.6%, 3 patients, respectively). At the 10-year period, the overall HBsAg loss, LC and HCC rates were 2.8, 13.2 and 1.9%, respectively. Conclusions: Our results suggest that CSWT is good short-term therapy and has possible long-term effects in young adult Japanese patients with CH-B.
Evolution of Hepatitis C Virus Quasispecies during Ribavirin and Interferon-Alpha-2b Combination Therapy and Interferon-Alpha-2b Monotherapy
Authors: Arataki Keiko , Kumada Hiromitsu , Toyota Kiyomi , Ohishi Waka , Takahashi Shoichi , Tazuma Susumu , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: August 2006

Objective: Ribavirin and interferon combination therapy is more effective than interferon monotherapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. To test the hypothesis that ribavirin induces nucleotide substitutions in the viral genome and reduces viral load by forcing it into error catastrophe in the combination therapy, we investigated the molecular evolution of HCV quasispecies in 3 patients who received combination therapy and 2 patients who received interferon monotherapy. Methods: The quasispecies were analyzed before and after therapy by sequencing at least 8 clones in five regions of the HCV genome; 5′ untranslated region, EI, E2, NS5A and NS5B. Results: Marked genetic drift was observed in the NS5A and NS5B regions in patients treated with combination therapy. However, genetic distances between clones obtained after therapy were closer than those obtained before therapy. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the combination therapy modified HCV quasispecies, but that this did not reflect the induction of error catastrophe by ribavirin. Modification of quasispecies by this therapy requires further investigation in a larger number of patients to elucidate the possible mechanism of viral resistance against the combination therapy.
Prolonged Negative HCV-RNA Status Led to a Good Outcome in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients with Genotype 1b and Super-High Viral Load
Authors: Kohno Hiroshi , Aimitsu Shiomi , Kitamoto Mikiya , Aisaka Yasuyuki , Kawakami Hiroiku , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: August 2006

Objective: We examined whether a sustained negative HCV-RNA status for 48 weeks affects the outcome in patients with genotype 1b and super-high viral load, and also investigated whether the outcome is affected by the induction therapy of twice-daily pre-administrated interferon (IFN)-β. Methods: 78 eligible patients were divided into four groups. 40 were patients assigned to the short treatment protocol. 13 patients received 3 MU IFN-β twice daily for 2 weeks followed by IFN-α2b+ribavirin for 22 weeks (β-induction group: group 1). 27 patients received IFN-α2b+ribavirin for 24 weeks (standard combination group: group 2). 38 patients were assigned to the maintenance treatment protocol. All of the 13 in the β-induction group (group 3) and 21 of 25 patients in the standard combination group (group 4) who were negative HCV-RNA PCR at week 24 had IFN monotherapy to maintain a negative HCV-RNA result for 48 weeks. Results: An HCV-RNA-negative status at week 24 was observed in 96% (25/26) of groups 1 and 3 versus in 79% (41/52) of groups 2 and 4 (p < 0.01). The sustained virological response (SVR) was 38% (5/13) in group 1 and 11% (3/27) in group 2 (p < 0.05). In the maintenance treatment, SVR was observed in 46% (6/13) of group 3 and 32% (8/25) of group 4 (NS). Conclusions: A sustained negative HCV-RNA status for 48 weeks might be associated with viral elimination in patients with genotype 1 and super-high viral load.
Assessing the Risk of Transmission of Viral Diseases in Flooded Areas: Viral Load of the River Elbe in Dresden during the Flood of August 2002
Authors: Rohayem Jacques , Dumke Roger , Jaeger Katrin , Schröter-Bobsin Ute , Mogel Michael , Kruse Alex , Jacobs Enno , Rethwilm Axel
Published: August 2006

In order to assess the risk of transmission of viral diseases during floods, the viral burden in flooded areas of the city of Dresden (Germany) in August 2002 was investigated. Water samples were collected from 9 sampling sites and tested for the presence of 11 enteric viral pathogens. As a control, water samples from the same sites were analyzed in seasonal intervals over the following year. A total of 36 samples were collected, 92% (33/36) being positive for at least one virus. Adenovirus type 40/41 was the most frequently detected (53%), followed by astrovirus (50%) and enterovirus (50%). In all samples, low levels of bacteriophages were detected with no specificity as to sampling site and season, indicating a moderate river contamination with wastewater. A striking association between water temperature and viral genome detection was observed, as illustrated in August 2002 (mean water temperature of 17.8°, 8 sites positive for 17 viruses), in comparison to November 2002 (mean water temperature of 7.6°, 9 sites positive for 45 viruses). Importantly, hepatitis A viral RNA was not detected in the flooded area. In conclusion, our results indicate no increased risk for transmission of viral diseases through water contact in flooded areas.
Familial Occurrence of Dementia and Parkinsonism
Authors: Kurz Martin Wilhelm , Schlitter Anna Melissa , Larsen Jan Petter , Ballard Clive , Aarsland Dag
Published: August 2006

Parkinson’s disease with dementia (PDD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are common clinical dementias characterized neuropathologically by the presence of cortical Lewy body pathology and with distinct clinical and neurobiological similarities. Importantly, genetic factors seem to play a key role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. In the current article, we examine the evidence for a genetic component to DLB and PDD by reviewing studies of familial PDD and DLB as well as familial coincidental PDD and DLB, and report the genes involved. There is a convincing genetic overlap between both syndromes, suggesting that they share a common etiological factor.
Polymorphisms of Fas Gene: Relationship with Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Decline
Authors: Chiappelli M. , Nasi M. , Cossarizza A. , Porcellini E. , Tumini E. , Pinti M. , Troiano L. , Franceschi M. , Licastro F.
Published: August 2006

The Fas antigen (CD95) is a cell surface receptor that mediates cell apoptosis signalling. Recent investigations have shown that Fas-regulated apoptosis was linked to neurodegenerative lesions in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here data regarding the association of two polymorphisms of the Fas promoter region with AD patient’s cognitive deterioration are reported. The polymorphism at position –1377 was associated with the risk of developing AD and with a differential rate of cognitive decline during a 2-year follow-up. The polymorphism at position –670 was not associated with the risk of AD and with the cognitive decline during the follow-up. Our data suggest that different genetic background in the Fas gene may influence the risk and clinical progression of the disease by affecting neurodegenerative processes leading to neuronal loss.
Assessment of Memory and New Learning Ability following Stereotaxy-Guided Transcortical Resection of Anterior Third Ventricular Colloid Cysts
Authors: Moorthy Ranjith K. , Vinolia Hannah , Tharyan Prathap , Rajshekhar Vedantam
Published: August 2006

In a prospective study, memory and new learning ability functions were assessed pre-operatively (17 patients) and in the early post-operative period (22 patients) at 7–26 days following surgery in patients undergoing stereotactic transcortical excision of their colloid cysts. Pre-operative assessment detected impaired memory in 5 patients, 2 of whom had no memory-related complaints. Impaired new learning ability was detected pre-operatively in 7 patients. There was a statistically non-significant trend towards improvement in the dysfunction scores post-operatively in most patients. No correlation was detected between the cyst size, presence of raised intracranial pressure at presentation, hydrocephalus and the pre-operative dysfunction scores. Stereotactic transcortical resection of colloid cysts does not impair these functions in the majority of patients and might improve these functions in some. In the absence of clinical or radiological predictors of dysfunction of memory and new learning ability, pre-operative neuropsychological assessment has a role in detecting impaired memory and new learning ability in patients with anterior third ventricular colloid cysts who may not even complain of them.
Design of an Artificial Neural Network for Diagnosis of Facial Pain Syndromes
Authors: Limonadi Farhad M. , McCartney Shirley , Burchiel Kim J.
Published: August 2006

A classification scheme for facial pain syndromes describing seven categories has previously been proposed. Based on this classification scheme and a binomial (yes/no) facial pain questionnaire, we have designed and trained an artificial neural network (ANN) and as an initial feasibility assessment of such an ANN system examined its ability to recognize and correctly diagnose patients with different facial pain syndromes. One hundred patients with facial pain were asked to respond to a facial pain questionnaire at the time of their initial visit. After interview, an independent diagnosis was assigned to each patient. The patients’ responses to the questionnaire and their diagnoses were input to an ANN. The ANN was able to retrospectively predict the correct diagnosis for 95 of 100 patients (95%), and prospectively determine a correct diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia Type 1 with 84% sensitivity and 83% specificity in 43 new patients. The ability of the ANN to accurately predict a correct diagnosis for the remaining types of facial pain was limited by our clinic sample size and hence less exposure to those categories. This is the first demonstration of the utilization of an ANN to diagnose facial pain syndromes.
Growth Hormone Deficiency and Replacement in Patients with Treated Cushing’s Disease, Prolactinomas and Non-Functioning Pituitary Adenomas: Effects on Body Composition, Glucose Metabolism, Lipid Status and Bone Mineral Density
Authors: Colson A. , Brooke A.M. , Walker D. , Besser G.M. , Chew S.L. , Grossman A.B. , Jenkins P.J. , Drake W.M. , Monson J.P.
Published: August 2006

Background/Aims: This study was designed to determine whether previous Cushing’s disease (CD) or prolactinoma (PRL) could exert adverse effects additional to those of growth hormone (GH) deficiency as a consequence of variable degrees of prior hypogonadism or hypercatabolism. We report the effects of 5 years GH treatment in 124 GH deficiency adults; 42 patients with non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA), 43 with treated PRL and 39 with treated CD. Methods: Fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipoprotein profile, anthropometry and bone mineral density (BMD) were measured at baseline, 6 months and annually up to 5 years. Results: Mean body mass index remained unchanged in the PRL group and tended to increase in the NFPA group. In contrast, body mass index decreased in the CD group. Decreases in waist and waist/hip ratio were seen in all groups at 6 months. Decreases in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were seen in all groups and remained sustained at 5 years. Plasma glucose and HbA1c increased at 6 months. Subsequently, plasma glucose returned to baseline values at 5 years; in contrast, HbA1c remained unchanged at the end of the study. Baseline lumbar spine and hip BMD were lower in the PRL and CD groups than in the NFPA group, decreased over 1 year in all groups and subsequently increased by 2 years in NFPA with a subsequent increase in lumbar spine BMD in PRL and CD groups delayed to 3–5 years. Conclusions: Baseline characteristics and response to GH replacement are qualitatively similar in NFPA, PRL and CD patients. Because improvements in BMD occur later in PRL and CD patients, an extended trial of GH therapy may be indicated in those patients who were commenced on GH therapy as an additional treatment for reduced BMD.
Identification of Two Sex-Specific Quantitative Trait Loci in Chromosome 11q for Hip Bone Mineral Density in Chinese
Authors: Huang Qing-Yang , Ng Mandy Y.M. , Cheung Ching-Lung , Chan Vivian , Sham Pak-Chung , Kung Annie W.C.
Published: August 2006

Background: Chromosome 11q has not only been found to contain mutations responsible for the several Mendelian disorders of the skeleton, but it has also been linked to bone mineral density (BMD) variation in several genome-wide linkage studies. Furthermore, quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting BMD in inbred mice and baboons have been mapped to a region syntenic to human chromosome 11q. The aim of the present study is to determine whether there is a QTL for BMD variation on chromosome 11q in the Chinese population. Methods: Nineteen microsatellite markers were genotyped for a 75 cM region on 11q13-25 in 306 Chinese families with 1,459 subjects. BMD (g/cm2) was measured by DXA. Linkage analyses were performed using the variance component linkage analysis method implemented in Merlin software. Results: For women, a maximum LOD score of 1.62 was achieved at 90.8 cM on 11q21 near the marker D11S4175 for femoral neck BMD; LOD scores greater than 1.0 were observed on 11q13 for trochanter BMD. For men, a maximum LOD score of 1.57 was achieved at 135.8 cM on 11q24 near the marker D11S4126 for total hip BMD. Conclusion: We have not only replicated the previous linkage finding on chromosome 11q but also identified two sex-specific QTL that contribute to BMD variation in Chinese women and men.
The Future in Diagnosis and Staging of Lung Cancer
Authors: Sienel Wulf , Dango Sebastian , Ehrhardt Peter , Eggeling Stephan , Kirschbaum Andreas , Passlick Bernward
Published: August 2006

Lung cancers at the same stage of disease have markedly different rates of disease progression. In this review, we will address current molecular techniques which provide new opportunities according to diagnosis, prediction of survival or selection of therapy. New molecular techniques might be helpful in TNM staging and lead to additional individual prognostic information. A revised TNM system could include a TNM component and a molecular supplemental component allowing new markers to be evaluated without undermining the value of classic TNM staging. Furthermore, molecular techniques might be helpful in the early or differential diagnosis of lung cancer. Since many new targeted agents are effective only if their respective molecular markers are mutated or expressed at sufficient levels, DNA-based or RNA-based techniques have the potential to influence treatment selection in the future. Overall, we can expect that molecular markers will contribute to a more personalized lung cancer treatment.
Comparison between Compliance of Fluticasone Propionate Diskhaler and of Fluticasone Propionate Diskus in Adult Bronchial Asthma Patients
Authors: Hasegawa Takashi , Suzuki Eiichi , Fujimori Katsuya , Sakagami Takuro , Toyabe Shinichi , Akazawa Kouhei , Kawano Kenji , Haraguchi Michihiko , Toyama Joji , Arakawa Masaaki , Satoh Hiroshi , Gejyo Fumitake
Published: August 2006

Background and Objectives: Because inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) play a central role in the management of asthma, new drug delivery systems for fluticasone propionate, Diskhaler (FPdh) and Diskus (FPdk), were developed. However, few studies have focused on compliance with these drug delivery systems, which can influence drug efficacy. Hence, we compared compliance with FPdk versus that with FPdh. Methods:Data were obtained from a survey of pharmacists dispensing anti-asthmatic drugs to adult asthma patients who visited participating pharmacies between October 2002 and November 2003. Patients were limited to regular users of FPdh or FPdk whose medication had not been changed for >6 months before the survey. Compliance and daily administration frequency of ICS were evaluated on the basis of pharmaceutical records. Data on asthma status and various other factors affecting ICS compliance were obtained by questionnaire. Results: Data were acquired on 337 patients. There were no significant differences in gender, age, and duration between the FPdk and FPdh groups. Although FPdk compliance was significantly higher than that of FPdh, conversely there was no significant difference in daily dose and administration frequency between the 2 groups. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the rate of concomitant drug and in various influencing factors associated with drug compliance. Regarding compliance of concomitant drug, that of oral sustained-released theophylline was significantly lower in FPdk versus FPdh users. Conclusion:In the area of drug compliance, FPdk is superior to FPdh. Although the reason for this is unclear, it is probably due to the characteristics of FPdk itself.
Influence of Insulin Resistance and Body Mass Index at Age 13 on Systolic Blood Pressure, Triglycerides, and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol at Age 19
Authors: Sinaiko Alan R. , Steinberger Julia , Moran Antoinette , Hong Ching-Ping , Prineas Ronald J. , Jacobs David R.
Published: August 2006

The association of insulin resistance and body mass index (BMI) at age 13 years and change in insulin resistance and BMI from ages 13 to 19 years with systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol at age 19 years was studied in black and non-Hispanic white children. Insulin clamps were conducted at mean ages 13 (N=357), 15 (N=309), and 19 (N=224) years with insulin resistance adjusted for lean body mass. A repeated-measures multiple regression model was used to predict the 3 risk factors and the clustering of the factors with fasting insulin (the insulin resistance [metabolic] syndrome score) at age 19 years from levels of insulin resistance and BMI at age 13 and their changes from ages 13 to 19 years. The tracking correlation between ages 13 and 19 was 0.85 for BMI and 0.42 for insulin resistance. It was 0.18 for fasting insulin (
P
=0.01) and
P
=0.11 after adjustment for BMI. In a multiple regression analysis, BMI at 13 years did not predict any of the risk factors at age 19; change in BMI predicted all 3 of the factors and score; insulin resistance at 13 years predicted systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and score; change in insulin resistance predicted triglycerides and score. These results show an effect for insulin resistance that is independent of BMI, consistent with the hypothesis that reducing insulin resistance, in addition to weight, may be needed to reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular risk.
Expression of Heat Shock Protein 27 in Human Atherosclerotic Plaques and Increased Plasma Level of Heat Shock Protein 27 in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Park Haing Kee , Park Eui-Chul , Bae Sung Won , Park Mi Young , Kim Seon Woon , Yoo Hwan Soo , Tudev Munkhtsetseg , Ko Young Hye , Choi Yoon-Ho , Kim Sungjoo , Kim Dong-Ik , Kim Young Wook , Lee Byung Boong , Yoon Jong-Bok , Park Jeong Euy
Published: August 2006

Background—

We intended to identify proteins that are differentially expressed in human atherosclerotic plaques.

Methods and Results—

Comparative 2-dimensional electrophoretic analysis on carotid atherosclerotic endarterectomy specimens (n=10) revealed that heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) expression was significantly increased in the nearby normal-appearing area compared with the plaque core area from the same vessel specimen, which was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. The Hsp27 expression in the adjacent normal-appearing vessel areas was much higher than that in nonatherosclerotic reference arteries. The phosphorylation of Hsp27 showed a gradation in the degree of phosphorylation: greatest in the reference arteries, intermediate in the adjacent normal-appearing area, and lowest in plaque core area. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the phosphorylation of Hsp27 of smooth muscle cells in the carotid endarterectomy specimens was decreased compared with that in the reference artery specimen. The mean plasma level of Hsp27 was significantly higher in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (n=27; 106.1±74.1 ng/mL) than in the normal reference subjects (n=29; 45.8±29.5 ng/mL;
P
<0.005). The plasma levels of Hsp27 were significantly correlated with those of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) (
r
=0.422,
P
<0.0005), with adjustment for ACS/reference status.

Conclusions—

In the atherosclerotic lesion, Hsp27 expression is increased in the normal-appearing vessel adjacent to atherosclerotic plaque, whereas levels in the plaque itself are significantly decreased. Both plaque and adjacent artery show decreased Hsp27 phosphorylation compared with reference vessel. In ACS, plasma Hsp27 and Hsp70 are increased, and levels of Hsp27 correlate with Hsp70, C-reactive protein, and CD40L levels.
Specific Temporal Profile of Matrix Metalloproteinase Release Occurs in Patients After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Webb Carson S. , Bonnema David D. , Ahmed S. Hinan , Leonardi Amy H. , McClure Catherine D. , Clark Leslie L. , Stroud Robert E. , Corn William C. , Finklea Laura , Zile Michael R. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: August 2006

Background—

Changes in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) contribute to left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). We tested the hypothesis that a specific plasma MMP/TIMP profile would emerge after MI and be associated with the degree of LV dilation.

Methods and Results—

LV end-diastolic volume and MMP/TIMP plasma profiles were determined in 53 age-matched control subjects and 32 post-MI patients from day 1 through 180 after MI. LV end-diastolic volume increased by >38% at day 90 after MI (
P
<0.05). MMP-9 increased by >150% from control at day 1 after MI (
P
<0.05) and remained elevated. MMP-8 rose to >120% at day 3 after MI (
P
<0.05) and fell to control values by day 5. TIMP-1 increased by >60% from control at day 1 after MI (
P
<0.05), whereas TIMP-2 increased only at later time points. Cardiac-specific TIMP-4 fell by 40% at day 5 after MI and remained reduced. A persistent or elevated MMP-9 at day 5 was accompanied by a 3-fold end-diastolic volume increase at day 28 (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

A specific temporal pattern of MMP/TIMPs occurred in post-MI patients that included an early and robust rise in MMP-9 and MMP-8 and a uniform fall in TIMP-4. These findings suggest that a specific MMP/TIMP plasma profile occurs after MI and holds both prognostic and diagnostic significance.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement on Screening for Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Beckman Joshua A. , Jaff Michael R. , Creager Mark A.
Published: August 2006

Under the auspices of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently released an update to its 1996 Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Screening Recommendation Statement. The USPSTF recommended against PAD screening, giving the practice a “D” level recommendation. This level suggests that little or no benefit could accrue from PAD screening and that screening-associated harm could occur. The present commentary disputes the Task Force’s recommendation. The USPSTF statement omitted important peer-reviewed data on the prevalence, screening efficacy, and short-term adverse prognosis of patients with PAD and failed to consider the beneficial outcomes that probably would result from timely diagnosis and treatment of this important manifestation of atherosclerosis. The Task Force implied that screening may lead to unnecessary tests, including increased risk associated with use of contrast angiographic studies. However, most patients with PAD have neither classic symptoms of leg claudication nor threatened limbs but have an extraordinarily high rate of adverse cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and death—events that should serve as a key rationale for screening. Medical therapy, including risk factor modification and antiplatelet medications, is known to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates in these patients. The Task Force’s recommendation against PAD detection may itself adversely result in inadequate recognition and treatment of PAD, with adverse public health consequences. We encourage the USPSTF to reevaluate the extant data, add vascular specialty expertise to its review group, and reconsider its recommendation.