bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Within‐subject variation of seminal parameters in men with infertile marriages
Authors: Francavilla F. , Barbonetti A. , Necozione S. , Santucci R. , Cordeschi G. , Macerola B. , Francavilla S.
Published: January 2007

As little information exists on the semen variability in infertile men, this study aimed at analysing the within‐subject variability of semen from men with infertile marriages included in an intrauterine insemination (IUI) programme. Five ejaculates from each of 436 men (2180 specimens) were analysed. The within‐subject coefficients of variation (CVw) were high for all parameters (semen volume, sperm concentration, forward motility and combined parameters), ranging from 0.73 for the total motile sperm count to 0.27 for the semen volume. Nevertheless, within‐subject fluctuations were smaller than the between‐subject variability, as indicated by high Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) values, which, however, significantly lowered when ≤3 samples were analysed against five samples. Neither seasonality nor the length of abstinence between 3 and 7 days significantly affected within‐subject semen variability, whereas total motile sperm count was significantly and negatively affected at 2 days of abstinence. In 253 cycles of double IUI, performed in two consecutive days, semen volume and parameters including volume decreased in the second sample, but semen quality improved in most cases of oligo‐ and/or asthenozoospermia. Useful information for clinical purposes is provided.
Clinical impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors therapy with bleeding risks
Authors: Turner M. S. , May D. B. , Arthur R. R. , Xiong G. L.
Published: January 2007

The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are extensively used for the treatment of multiple psychiatric conditions. In vitro and ex vivo data with these agents indicate they may have varying degrees of antiplatelet activity via multiple receptors. Reports of bleeding in patients receiving SSRIs appeared soon after their introduction. A review of the literature suggests SSRI therapy may increase the risk of bleeding especially with concomitant aspirin or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents. Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing these agents in high risk patients and maintain awareness of the potential contribution of SSRIs to unexplained bleeding episodes.
Biochemical and bioimaging markers for risk assessment and diagnosis in major cardiovascular diseases: a road to integration of complementary diagnostic tools
Authors: Marcovina S. M. , Crea F. , Davignon J. , Kaski J. C. , Koenig W. , Landmesser U. , Pieri P. L. , Schulz‐Menger J. , Shaw L. J. , Sobesky J.
Published: January 2007

This report from the first International Course on Integrated Biomarkers, Biochemical and Bioimaging Endpoints in Cardiovascular Diagnosis, Prevention, Therapy and Drug Development provides the basis for optimizing diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic information in four areas of cardiovascular medicine: primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases, acute coronary syndromes, heart failure and stroke. Risk stratification and treatment strategies can be refined and enhanced through integration of bioimaging and biochemical markers to characterize sub‐clinical and clinical atherosclerosis. For the integrative approach to be useful, each of the biomarkers must be validated and cost‐effective. Clinical decision is the primary level of integration and is based on clinical evaluation and the use of a combination of bioimaging and biochemical markers. The decision to initiate preventive or therapeutic intervention must take into account the factors affecting the levels of expression of the biomarker and the potential input the biomarker has on metabolic processes or modulation of other biomarkers. The optimal approach to intervention must take into consideration the risk–benefit and cost–effectiveness ratios.
Ultrasonographic thickness and electromyographic activity of masseter muscle of human females
Authors: GEORGIAKAKI I. , TORTOPIDIS D. , GAREFIS P. , KILIARIDIS S.
Published: January 2007

summary  The aims of this study were to assess the thickness of the masseter muscle by means of ultrasonography and to investigate the relationship between masseter electromyographic activity and muscle thickness bilaterally, during maximum voluntary clenches. Participants in the study consisted of 52 young female adults (mean age 23·7 ± 2·5 years) without craniomandibular disorders and with full natural dentitions. The thickness of the masseter muscle was measured with a real‐time ultrasound equipment. Electromyographic activity was recorded with bipolar surface electrodes, during maximum voluntary clenches. The error of the methods was calculated by double recordings in 15 subjects in a 4‐week interval. The measurement error for the right muscle was 0·16 mm in thickness and 16·44 μV in electromyographic activity. For the left masseter the corresponding values were 0·19 mm and 18·01 μV. The relationship of masseter muscle thickness to its electromyographic activity was estimated by Pearson's correlation coefficient. The mean masseter thickness under contracted conditions was 13·9 ± 1·5 mm for the right side and 13·9 ± 1·4 mm for the left side. The mean maximum electromyographic activity was 379·0 ± 56·0 μV for the right muscle and 372·3 ± 73·2 μV for the left. Muscle thickness was strongly correlated to electromyographic maximum activity in the right masseter (r = 0·721, P ≤ 0·001) and moderately correlated in the left muscle (r = 0·407, P ≤ 0·01). The difference between the two sides is possibly because of the larger method error in the left side. It is apparent that ultrasonography can be used as a useful tool to assess masseter muscle functional capacity during full effort in healthy individuals.
Masticatory problems after balloon compression for trigeminal neuralgia: a longitudinal study1
Authors: DE SIQUEIRA S. R. D. T. , DA NÓBREGA J. C. M. , TEIXEIRA M. J. , DE SIQUEIRA J. T. T.
Published: January 2007

summary Idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN) is a chronic neuropathic pain that affects the masticatory system. The objective of this study was to identify orofacial pain and temporomandibular characteristics, including temporomandibular disorder (TMD), in a sample of 105 ITN patients treated with compression of the trigeminal ganglion. The evaluations occurred before, 7, 30 (1 month), 120 (3 months) and 210 days (7 months) after surgery. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), the Clinical Questionnaire (EDOF‐HC) and Helkimo Indexes were used. Findings before neurosurgery were used as control for parameters. McNemar test and variance analysis for repetitive measurements were used for statistical analysis; 45·3% of the edentulous patients presented severe dental occlusion index; numbness was an important masticatory complaint in 42·6%; mastication became bilateral, but its discomfort continued during all period; headache and body pain reduced after surgery; TMD, present in 43·8% before surgery, increased but normalized after 7 months; jaw mobility compromise was still present, but daily activities improved after 7 months. We concluded that: (i) ITN relief reduced headache, body pain, depression and unspecific symptoms; and (ii) TMD before surgery and at 7 months suggests that this may be a contributory factor to patients’ pain complaints.
Three‐dimensional analysis of the occlusal plane related to the hamular–incisive–papilla occlusal plane in young adults
Authors: FU P.‐S. , HUNG C.‐C. , HONG J.‐M. , WANG J.‐C.
Published: January 2007

summary  The planes which serve as references for cranium and face in dental clinical application included the occlusal plane, Frankfort plane, Camper's plane and hamular–incisive–papilla (HIP) plane. The HIP occlusal plane is a horizontal plane passing through the bilateral hamular notches and the incisive papilla (Dent Surv. 1975;51:60). The aim of this study was to estimate the relationship between the various occlusal planes and the HIP plane in Taiwanese young adults with approximately optimal occlusion. Study casts of 100 young adults (50 men and 50 women) were selected in this study. All market points on the maxillary casts were measured by a three‐dimensional precise measuring device. The angular relationship between the four various occlusal planes and the HIP plane were investigated. The vertical distances between the cusp tips and incisal edges of maxillary teeth to the HIP plane were measured. Data were performed by the Statistic analysis software programme (JMP 4.02). The Student's t‐test and Pearson's correlation test were used to test the statistical significance (P < 0·05). The results showed that the occlusal plane defined as the incisal edge of maxillary central incisor to mesiobuccal cusp tips of maxillary second molars had the smallest included angle with the HIP plane (2·61 ± 0·81°). The incisal edge of maxillary right central incisal to mesiopalatal cusp tips of maxillary first molars had the largest included angle with the HIP plane (7·72 ± 1·60°). The curve is drawn through the buccal cusp tips of maxillary teeth had better parallelism with the HIP plane.
Influence of prefabricated post dimensions on restored maxillary central incisors
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ‐CERVANTES P. J. , SANCHO‐BRU J. L. , BARJAU‐ESCRIBANO A. , FORNER‐NAVARRO L. , PÉREZ‐GONZÁLEZ A. , SÁNCHEZ‐MARÍN F. T.
Published: January 2007

summary  The aim of this study was to test the following hypothesis: biomechanical performance (fracture strength and stress distribution) of restored teeth is less sensitive to post diameter and post length when using glass fibre posts than when using stainless steel posts. First, an experimental fracture strength test was performed on 80 extracted human maxillary central incisors. Teeth were decoronated, treated endodontically and restored (40 with glass fibre posts and 40 with stainless steel posts), and the length and diameter of the posts varied uniformly. Failure loads were recorded and results were compared using an ancova analysis. Secondly, the finite element technique was used to develop a model of the restored tooth. The post diameter had a significant effect on the biomechanical performance of teeth restored with stainless steel posts. Lower failure loads were found as post diameter increased. However, the post diameter of those teeth restored with glass fibre posts, and the post length for both post systems under consideration, did not affect the biomechanical performance of restored teeth to a significant degree. The stress distributions predicted by the developed model corroborated these findings, confirmed the assumed hypothesis, and permitted the proposal of the use of glass fibre posts to achieve a restorative technique that is less sensitive to post dimensions, and thus more robust.
Is hepatitis C virus NS3 protease quasispecies heterogeneity predictive of progression from cirrhosis to hepatocellular carcinoma?
Authors: Vallet S. , Gouriou S. , Nkontchou G. , Hotta H. , Vilerio M. , Legrand‐Quillien M. C. , Beaugrand M. , Trinchet J. C. , Nousbaum J. B. , Dény P. , Gaudy C. , Goudeau A. , Picard B. , Payan C.
Published: January 2007

Summary.  We investigated whether an HCV NS3 protease quasispecies heterogeneity was associated with progression from viral cirrhosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The NS3 protease quasispecies structure of 10 HCV‐1b cirrhotic patients (controls) was compared with that of 10 paired HCV‐1b cirrhotic patients who displayed progression to HCC (cases). NS3 protease genetic complexity and diversity did not differ significantly between cases and controls. Amino acid substitutions were detected at 20 (11%) and 25 (14%) sites in at least two variants of the NS3 protease in cases and controls, respectively. Significant differences in the percentage of substituted clones were observed for 10 NS3 sites. Mutations Y56F, I71V, T72I, Q86P, P89S, S101G/D, R117H, S122G/T/N, V132I and V170I were more frequently observed in the NS3 protease sequences of controls than in those of cases. Residue V107 was substituted in NS3 cases but not in controls. However, these differences did not allow the definition of a specific NS3 profile related to HCC occurrence. The NS3 secondary structure B1‐1 previously identified as potentially predictive of HCC was identified with a higher frequency in cases quasispecies (84.2%) than in controls (55.9%; P < 0.05). Our results suggest that there may be a relationship to fibrosis progression when diversity parameters are considered together with secondary structure profiles. Further investigations are required to determine the cellular interactions of HCV NS3 protease in the context of carcinogenesis.
Estimating the future health burden of chronic hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus infections in the United States
Authors: Deuffic‐Burban S. , Poynard T. , Sulkowski M. S. , Wong J. B.
Published: January 2007

Summary.  The aim of this work was to estimate the future disease burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in the United States until the year 2030. Two back‐calculation models of the HIV and the HCV epidemic were developed. They were based on US epidemiological data regarding prevalence, age and gender of incident cases, AIDS, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality and general population mortality from the Centers for Disease Control and WHO. Based on the HCV back‐calculation model, HCV incidence peaked in 1984 at 350 000 new infections and then fell to about 77 000 in 1998. Based on the HIV back‐calculation model, HIV incidence reached its maximum in 1989 at 142 000 new infections and then declined to 79 000 in 1998. Mortality related to HCV (death from liver failure or HCC) rose from about 3700 in 1998 and is expected to peak at about 13 000 in 2030. Predicted HCV mortality would fall only if increased access to or more effective antiviral therapy occurs. For comparison, observed HIV‐related mortality was 14 400 in 1998 and projected to be 4200 for 2030. With the availability of effective highly active antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection, mortality from HIV appears to have declined substantially, whereas HCV‐related deaths as a result of pre‐1999 infections will likely continue to increase over the next 25 years.
Transformation in Streptococcus pneumoniae: formation of eclipse complex in a coiA mutant implicates CoiA in genetic recombination
Authors: Desai Bhushan V. , Morrison Donald A.
Published: January 2007

CoiA is a transient protein expressed specifically during competence and required for genetic transformation in Streptococcus pneumoniae, but not for DNA uptake. It is widely conserved among Gram‐positive bacteria but its function is unknown. Here we report that although the rate of DNA uptake was not affected in a coiA mutant, the internalized donor DNA did not recombine into the host chromosome to form a physical and genetic heteroduplex. Instead, DNA taken up by a coiA mutant accumulated in the form of a single‐stranded (ss) DNA–protein complex indistinguishable from the eclipse complex formed as a recombination intermediate in wild‐type competent cells. Internalized donor DNA in a dprA mutant did not accumulate either as ss DNA or as an eclipse complex. Together, these results establish that a coiA mutant exhibits a phenotype different from that of dprA or recA mutants, and that CoiA functions at a later step in promoting recombination during genetic transformation in Streptococcus pneumoniae.
A horizontally acquired filamentous phage contributes to the pathogenicity of the plague bacillus
Authors: Derbise Anne , Chenal‐Francisque Viviane , Pouillot Flavie , Fayolle Corinne , Prévost Marie‐Christine , Médigue Claudine , Hinnebusch Bernard Joseph , Carniel Elisabeth
Published: January 2007

Yersinia pestis, the plague bacillus, has an exceptional pathogenicity but the factors responsible for its extreme virulence are still unknown. A genome comparison with its less virulent ancestor Yersinia pseudotuberculosis identified a few Y. pestis‐specific regions acquired after their divergence. One of them potentially encodes a prophage (YpfΦ), similar to filamentous phages associated with virulence in other pathogens. We show here that YpfΦ forms filamentous phage particles infectious for other Y. pestis isolates. Although it was previously suggested that YpfΦ is restricted to the Orientalis branch, our results indicate that it was acquired by the Y. pestis ancestor. In Antiqua and Medievalis strains, YpfΦ genome forms an unstable episome whereas in Orientalis isolates it is stably integrated as tandem repeats. Deletion of the YpfΦ genome does not affect Y. pestis ability to colonize and block the flea proventriculus, but results in an alteration of Y. pestis pathogenicity in mice. Our results show that transformation of Y. pestis from a classical enteropathogen to the highly virulent plague bacillus was accompanied by the acquisition of an unstable filamentous phage. Continued maintenance of YpfΦ despite its high in vitro instability suggests that it confers selective advantages to Y. pestis under natural conditions.
Genetic mechanisms involved in the repression of flagellar assembly by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in human mucus
Authors: Jyot Jeevan , Sonawane Avinash , Wu Weihui , Ramphal Reuben
Published: January 2007

Pseudomonas aeruginosa downregulates flagellin transcription when it is grown in purulent mucus from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and non‐CF bronchiectasis. This response possibly abrogates the potent inflammatory response mediated by the interaction of flagellin with Toll‐like receptor 5. The molecular mechanisms involved are thus far unknown. Known flagellar transcriptional regulators were not involved, thus Tn5 mutagenesis was used to ascertain whether novel regulators existed. Five clones with independent Tn5 insertions in flgM showed derepression of flagellin synthesis, suggesting that FlgM was involved in this phenomenon. Furthermore, examination of mucus‐grown bacteria showed FlgM accumulation and overexpression of fliA in mucus‐grown bacteria reversed the repression of flagellin synthesis. A related study from our laboratory had identified neutrophil elastase in mucus as the molecule responsible for fliC repression, therefore we examined whether loss of the flagellar hook (FlgE), by proteolysis was involved, because the flagellar hook is required for FlgM export. Western immunoblot of membranes from mucus‐grown bacteria showed the absence of FlgE, despite the fact that the protein is made and the operon encoding FlgE is upregulated in mucus. A model is proposed wherein neutrophil elastase in mucus proteolytically cleaves the flagellar hook, thus completion of the hook basal body is never sensed, resulting in FlgM accumulation within the cell, causing repression of flagellin synthesis. We speculate that the cyclical bouts of inflammation observed in CF patients may result from flagellin synthesis and its repression, caused by presence of neutrophils at the site of infection.
A PerR‐regulated metal transporter (PmtA) is an interface between oxidative stress and metal homeostasis inStreptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Brenot Audrey , Weston Benjamin F. , Caparon Michael G.
Published: January 2007

InStreptococcus pyogenes, mutation of the peroxide sensor PerR results in avirulence despite producing hyper‐resistance to peroxide stress. To understand the basis of this effect, global transcription profiling was conducted revealing one highly downregulated gene (czcD), and five highly upregulated genes in the mutant. Of the latter, onlypmtAcontained a binding site for PerR, whilephtY,phtD,lspandrpsN2harboured an AdcR motif and were regulated by AdcR, a repressor of an ABC‐type metal transporter. Furthermore, only the PerR‐regulatedpmtA(PerR‐regulated metal transporter A), a putative metal transporter, contributed to resistance against peroxide stress, while AdcR and the other AdcR‐regulated genes did not. However, overexpression ofpmtAresulted in upregulation of several AdcR‐regulated genes, suggesting that the AdcR regulon is sensitive to PerR regulation of metal homeostasis. Finally, examination ofS. pyogenesfollowing murine subcutaneous infection revealed that whilepmtAwas not upregulated in a late infection, the AdcR‐regulated genes were. Taken together, these data suggest that PerR has a greater impact on the transcriptome than can be predicted by its binding sites and thatpmtAfunctions to link metal homeostasis and oxidative stress responses.
Protection of antiterminator RNA by the transcript elongation complex
Authors: Sloan Sieghild , Rutkai Edit , King Rodney A. , Velikodvorskaya Tatyana , Weisberg Robert A.
Published: January 2007

Nascent transcripts encoded by the putL and putR sites of phage HK022 bind the transcript elongation complex and suppress termination at downstream transcription terminators. We report here that the chemical stability of putL RNA is considerably greater than that of the typical Escherichia coli message because the elongation complex protects this RNA from degradation. When binding to the elongation complex was prevented by mutation of either putL or RNA polymerase, RNA stability decreased more than 50‐fold. The functional modification conferred by putL RNA on the elongation complex is also long‐lived: the efficiency of terminator suppression remained high for at least 10 kb from the putL site. We find that RNase III rapidly and efficiently cleaved the transcript just downstream of the putL sequences, but such cleavage changed neither the stability of putL RNA nor the efficiency of antitermination. These results argue that the continuity of the RNA that connects put sequences to the growing point is not required for persistence of the antiterminating modification in vivo.
A plasmodesmata‐associated β‐1,3‐glucanase in Arabidopsis
Authors: Levy Amit , Erlanger Michael , Rosenthal Michal , Epel Bernard L.
Published: January 2007

Plasmodesmal conductivity is regulated in part by callose turnover, which is hypothesized to be determined by β‐1,3‐glucan synthase versus glucanase activities. A proteomic analysis of an Arabidopsis thaliana plasmodesmata (Pd)‐rich fraction identified a β‐1,3‐glucanase as present in this fraction. The protein encoded by the putative plasmodesmal associated protein (ppap) gene, termed AtBG_ppap, had previously been found to be a post‐translationally modified glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) lipid‐anchored protein. When fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP) and expressed in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) or Nicotiana benthamiana epidermal cells, this protein displays fluorescence patterns in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane system, along the cell periphery and in a punctate pattern that co‐localizes with aniline blue‐stained callose present around the Pd. Plasma membrane localization was verified by co‐localization of AtBG_ppap:GFP together with a plasma membrane marker N‐[3‐triethylammoniumpropyl]‐4‐[p‐diethylaminophenylhexatrienyl] pyridinium dibromide (FM4‐64) in plasmolysed cells. In Arabidopsis T‐DNA insertion mutants that do not transcribe AtBG_ppap, functional studies showed that GFP cell‐to‐cell movement between epidermal cells is reduced, and the conductivity coefficient of Pd is lower. Measurements of callose levels around Pd after wounding revealed that callose accumulation in the mutant plants was higher. Taken together, we suggest that AtBG_ppap is a Pd‐associated membrane protein involved in plasmodesmal callose degradation, and functions in the gating of Pd.
Arabidopsis thaliana nicotinate/nicotinamide mononucleotide adenyltransferase (AtNMNAT) is required for pollen tube growth
Authors: Hashida Shin‐nosuke , Takahashi Hideyuki , Kawai‐Yamada Maki , Uchimiya Hirofumi
Published: January 2007

While mammals and fungi possess nicotinate/nicotinamide mononucleotide adenyltransferase (NMNAT) isoforms, Arabidopsis thaliana only contains a single NMNAT gene, AtNMNAT (At5g55810). We analyzed the enzymatic activity of the AtNMNAT‐encoded protein to determine the role of AtNMNAT in plant development. AtNMNAT catalyzed the synthesis of nicotinate adenine dinucleotide (NaAD) from nicotinate mononucleotide (NaMN) in the Preiss–Handler‐dependent pathway, and of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) from nicotiamide mononucleotide (NMN) in the Preiss–Handler‐independent pathway. Prominent AtNMNAT expression was detected in the male gametophyte. Moreover, AtNMNAT expression was spatio‐temporally regulated during microspore development and pollen tube growth. Disruption of the AtNMNAT gene (atnmnat mutant) was characterized by a decrease in NAD content in pollen. Cytological examinations revealed that the atnmnat mutant was gametophytically impaired in in vivo and in vitro pollen tube growth. Our results suggest that metabolic fulfillment via the NAD pathway is indispensable for normal pollen growth and subsequent normal seed production.
Obtaining concomitant control of allergic rhinitis and asthma with a nasally inhaled corticosteroid
Authors: Camargos P. , Ibiapina C. , Lasmar L. , Cruz A. A.
Published: January 2007

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma coexist frequently and a dual treatment is recommended by prescribing topical nasal plus oral inhaled corticosteroids. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of a nasally inhaled corticosteroid aiming at concomitant control of AR and asthma. A controlled trial was conducted among 60 patients with AR and asthma, aged 6–18 years, who were randomized into two groups. During 8 weeks, the experimental group (30 patients) received exclusively fluticasone propionate hydrofluoroalkane (FP‐HFA) inhaled through the nose (mouth closed) using a large volume spacer attached to a face mask. The comparison group (30 patients) received a nasal spray of isotonic saline plus oral inhalation of FP‐HFA through a mouthpiece attached to the same spacer. Clinical scores for AR and asthma, nasal inspiratory peak flow (NIPF), and spirometry were assessed by blinded observers. There was a significant improvement in AR scores and NIPF in the experimental group (P ≤ 0.01) up to week 8, when a worsening was observed after the intervention was interrupted. Asthma symptoms score, forced expiratory volume (FEV)1, and FEF25−75% were not statistically different between groups at the baseline visit or along follow‐up visits (P ≥ 0.20). Prebronchodilator FEV1 (% predicted value) improved by 10% in both groups, comparing values at inclusion with those obtained at the end of follow up. Our results suggest that nasally inhaled FP‐HFA through a spacer may control AR and asthma in children and adolescents. This approach is likely to result in higher compliance, lower costs, and fewer side effects.
Severe cryptosporidiosis in a seven‐year‐old renal transplant recipient – Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hong David K. , Wong Cynthia J. , Gutierrez Kathleen
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Cryptosporidium is an intracellular protozoa that can cause gastroenteritis in humans. In immunocompromised hosts, infection can be severe, leading to life‐threatening persistent diarrhea. There is limited experience in treating this infection in solid organ transplants. Although newer drugs active against Cryptosporidium exist, they are only licensed in the USA for treatment of immunocompetent hosts. Here we describe a seven‐year‐old renal transplant recipient with severe cryptosporidiosis. He had a protracted course of diarrhea of up to 2 L/day. He was successfully managed with combination antimicrobial therapy including nitazoxanide, paromomycin, and azithromycin. In conjunction with this regimen, he had a reduction in immunosuppression and complete bowel rest. His stool pattern normalized in four weeks and he has had no recurrence after six months of follow up.
Demand for evaluation of vaccination antibody titers in children considered for renal transplantation
Authors: Prelog M. , Pohl M. , Ermisch B. , Fuchshuber A. , Huzly D. , Jungraithmayr Th. , Forster J. , Zimmerhackl L. B.
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Vaccinations are recommended for achieving protection against vaccine‐preventable infections in solid‐organ transplant recipients. In order to evaluate the protection at the time of renal transplantation, the antibody titers against measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, hepatitis B, diphtheria, and tetanus were determined in 35 children one month prior to transplantation. Only 26% of patients on dialysis listed for transplantation showed protective antibodies against all tested pathogens. Particularly, low protection was found for hepatitis B. Children younger than four yr showed significantly lower protective antibody titers compared with older children for almost all vaccines. Children who completed vaccination in the last six months to six yr prior to renal transplantation showed higher rates of protective antibody titers against all pathogens compared with children who had vaccination more than six yr before transplantation. Preventive strategies in children with chronic renal failure include repeated measurements of serum antibodies and appropriate revaccination if titers decline. Our results underline the demand for continuous surveillance of specific antibody titers against vaccine‐preventable diseases in the risk group of renal transplant recipients.
Effect of chronic oxidative/corticosterone‐induced stress on ascorbic acid metabolism and total antioxidant capacity in chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Maurice D. , Lightsey S. F. , Toler J. E. , Canty S.
Published: January 2007

The consequences of chronic corticosterone‐induced stress (CCIS) on ascorbic acid (AsA) metabolism in chickens, an animal that syntheses the vitamin, are not known. This study was conducted to determine whether CCIS alters AsA synthesis, as measured by l‐gulonolactone oxidase (GLO) activity, tissue AsA, lipid peroxides and tissue total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Stress was induced by dietary administration of corticosterone from 2 to 4 weeks of age and measurements were made at 0, 7 and 14 days post‐treatment. Ascorbic acid synthesis was not influenced by CCIS but hepatic, cardiac, renal, bursal and duodenal AsA concentrations were significantly decreased and plasma TAC and uric acid concentrations were significantly elevated. Stress caused significant hepatomegaly and hepatic lipidosis but hepatic peroxides were not elevated despite the slight decrease in hepatic TAC. Tissue TAC varied in different organs. It was markedly elevated in the kidney, reduced by 49% in the spleen, and changes were not detected in the heart and duodenum even though AsA concentration was significantly decreased in all tissues. We conclude that CCIS caused a significant reduction in tissue AsA concentration but did not inhibit GLO activity. The change in AsA concentration was associated with increase, decrease or no change in TAC in tissues examined. The findings suggest that CCIS may alter AsA recycling, influx or turnover in different tissues of chickens.
Responses of non‐starch polysaccharide‐degrading enzymes on digestibility and performance of growing pigs fed a diet based on corn, soya bean meal and Chinese double‐low rapeseed meal
Authors: Fang Z. F. , Peng J. , Liu Z. L. , Liu Y. G.
Published: January 2007

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of two distinct enzyme preparations on nutrients’ digestibility and growth performance of growing pigs fed diets based on corn, soya bean meal and Chinese double‐low rapeseed meal (DLRM). The two enzyme preparations were Enzyme R, a preparation extracted from fermentation of a non‐GMO fungus Penicillum funiculosum, developed for multi‐grain and multi‐animal species; and Enzyme P, a xylanase preparation from Trichoderma longibrachiatum, for pigs fed corn‐based diets only. Both enzymes were tested at 0, 0.25 and 0.50 g/kg feed using 70 crossbred male pigs (Large Yorkshire × Landrace) in five dietary treatments and seven replicates in each treatment, for growth period from 27 to 68 kg live weight in 49 days. Results showed that the supplementation of both enzymes (1) increased total‐tract digestibility of dietary energy from 77.5% (control) to 81.4% (Enzyme R, p < 0.05) and 81.9% (Enzyme P, p < 0.05); of neutral detergent fibre from 41.0% (control) to 57.8% (Enzyme R, p < 0.05) and 60.0% (Enzyme P, p < 0.05); (2) improved average daily gain from 786 g (control) to 829 g (Enzyme R, p < 0.05) and 846 g (Enzyme P, p < 0.05); and numerical increases in feed intake from 1.96 kg/pig/day (control) to 2.01 (Enzyme R) and 2.00 (p > 0.05) and feed conversion ratio from 2.50 (control) to 2.42 (Enzyme R) and 2.36 (Enzyme P, p < 0.05); (3) there was a dose response but no significant differences were observed in enzyme efficacy between the two enzyme preparations. The present study demonstrated beneficial effects of applying xylanase‐based enzymes to improve feeding values of pig diets based on corn, soya bean meal and DLRM.
Yttrium oxide (Y2O3) as an inert marker in digestibility studies with dogs, blue foxes and mink fed diets containing different protein sources
Authors: Vhile S. G. , Skrede A. , Ahlstrøm Ø. , Hove K.
Published: January 2007

The study evaluated the use of yttrium oxide (Y2O3) as an inert marker in studies of apparent total tract digestibility in dogs, blue foxes and mink. Comparison was made with total faecal collection, and use of chromic oxide (Cr2O3) as marker respectively. Four experimental diets were added 0.1 g/kg yttrium oxide and 10 g/kg chromic oxide and fed to four animals of each species. Faecal recovery of yttrium oxide was 94.4% (SEM ± 1.0), and of chromic oxide 105.8% (SEM ± 1.5). The digestibilities of dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, starch and total carbohydrates obtained by total collection and yttrium oxide as marker showed close similarity, and in most cases not significant differences, independent of species and diets. In dogs, overall digestibilities of main nutrients with chromic oxide as marker were not significantly different from overall means obtained with yttrium oxide (p > 0.05). Overall digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and total carbohydrates in blue foxes and mink was significantly higher with chromic oxide than with yttrium oxide (p < 0.05). In dogs and blue foxes, digestibilities of individual amino acids determined by use of yttrium oxide were not different from values obtained using total collection of faeces, both within diets and for overall mean (p > 0.05). Overall amino acid digestibilities in dogs determined with chromic oxide as marker were similar to corresponding figures for yttrium oxide, whereas use of chromic oxide resulted in significantly higher digestibilites for a number of amino acids compared with yttrium oxide in foxes and mink (p < 0.05). The digestibilities of most main nutrients and amino acids revealed no interaction between diet and method (p > 0.05). The study showed that yttrium oxide can be used in low concentration in the feed, and allows high accuracy of analyses and thereby precise digestibility determination. It is concluded that yttrium oxide is an alternative inert marker to chromic oxide in the studied species.
Sources of Resistance to Anthracnose in Traditional Common Bean Cultivars from Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Vidigal Filho P. S. , Gonçalves‐Vidigal M. C. , Kelly J. D. , Kirk W. W.
Published: January 2007

Pathogenicity of physiologically distinct races of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum originating from Andean (races 7, 19 and 55) and Mesoamerican (races 9, 31, 65, 69, 73, 81, 89, 95 and 453) locations of the new world were evaluated on 26 landrace genotypes of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) from Paraná State, Brazil. Races 7 (Andean), 65, 73 and 89 (Mesoamerican) were the most pathogenic, while race 31 (Mesoamerican) was the least pathogenic. Most of the landrace genotypes evaluated (88%) were resistant to race 31, except Carioca 3, Preto 1 and Preto 2. In addition, about 50% of the landrace genotypes had resistance to races 9, 19, 55 and 453; and about 30% to races 7, 65, 69, 73, 81, 89 and 95. The resistance index, which measured the pathogenicity response averaged across all the physiologically distinct Andean and Mesoamerican races of C. lindemuthianum, of the landrace genotypes ranged from 8% to 83%. The most resistant cultivars were Carioca Pintado 1, Carioca Pintado 2, Jalo Vermelho and Jalo de Listras Pretas. In contrast, the most susceptible cultivars were Jalo Pardo, Jalo Pintado 1 and Bolinha that showed resistance only to the least pathogenic race 31. These results indicated that many of the common bean landrace cultivars evaluated have genes that could be useful in breeding programmes to enhance resistance to Andean and Mesoamerican races of C. lindemuthianum.
Doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system versus tamsulosin for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A study in Chinese patients
Authors: Xue Zhaoying , Zhang Yuanfang , Ding Qiang , He Zhishong , Wang Jiangong , Xu Ke
Published: January 2007

Aim:  The efficacy and safety profiles of two α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists, doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system, a controlled‐release formulation of doxazosin, and tamsulosin, were compared in Chinese men with confirmed benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods:  After a 2‐week placebo run‐in phase, 117 patients were randomized to daily treatment with doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system (4 mg doxazosin) (n = 60) or 0.2 mg tamsulosin (n = 57) for 6 weeks with no titration of study medications. Efficacy was measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score, maximum urinary flow rate, postvoid residual urine volume, and quality‐of‐life score from the International Prostate Symptom Score. Adverse events were recorded.

Results:  Both drugs significantly improved the International Prostate Symptom Score (total, irritative subscore and obstructive subscore) and maximum urinary flow rate. Doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system reduced postvoid residual urine volume significantly more than tamsulosin (−25 ± 5 mL vs 2 ± 5 mL, P = 0.041) in patients with residual volume >0 mL at baseline. Other differences between groups were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:  The doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system and tamsulosin were effective and well tolerated for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in Chinese men.
Relapsed prostate cancer with neuroendocrine differentiation and high serum levels of carcinoembryonic antigen without elevation of prostrate‐specific antigen: A case report
Authors: Kinebuchi Yoshiaki , Noguchi Wataru , Irie Kyoko , Nakayama Tsuyoshi , Kato Haruaki , Nishizawa Osamu
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  A 62‐year‐old man had been treated with combined androgen blockade due to cT2bN1M0 prostate cancer, and his serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels decreased and remained under the level of 0.5 ng/mL during therapy. Approximately 40 months after the initial therapy, difficulty on urination and constipation developed gradually, and serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and pro‐gastrin‐releasing peptide (ProGRP) levels were high at this point. He underwent transrectal and transurethral biopsy of the prostate, which revealed adenocarcinoma positive for CEA and chromogranin A. He received palliative pelvic irradiation, and oral estramustine phosphate and etoposide combined therapy. Tumor markers decreased and clinical symptoms improved for several months. The patient died of encephalopathy of unknown etiology approximately 11 months after the relapse.
Anterior urethral valves in children: A possible association between anterior urethral valves and Cowper’s duct cyst
Authors: Kajiwara Mitsuru , Inoue Katsumi , Kato Masao , Usui Akihiro , Matsubara Akio , Usui Tsuguru
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  To elucidate the pathophysiology of congenital obstruction of the anterior urethra and to investigate the association between anterior urethral valves and syringocele. Three boys with congenital obstruction of the anterior urethra diagnosed at our department between 1997 and 2004 were analyzed retrospectively. All three boys had congenital obstruction in the bulbar urethra. The presenting symptoms and age of each patient were varied. Whereas continuity between Cowper’s duct and the diverticulum was not demonstrated radiographically in all of the boys, it was speculated endoscopically in all. Our series has suggested a possible association between anterior urethral valves (diverticulum) and syringocele. These congenital anomalies of the anterior urethra should be considered in the differential diagnosis of obstructive lesions of the urinary tract.
Combined assay of CYFRA21‐1, telomerase and vascular endothelial growth factor in the detection of bladder transitional cell carcinoma
Authors: Bian Wei , Xu Zhishun
Published: January 2007

Background:  CYFRA21‐1, telomerase and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are regarded as useful tumor markers in the detection of bladder transitional cell carcinoma. However, the sensitivity of each single marker seemed to be unsatisfactory. In the current study, we assessed the sensitivity of the combined assay of these three markers in the detection of human bladder transitional cell carcinoma.

Methods:  Voided urine samples of 100 patients with bladder transitional cell carcinoma were obtained and each sample was aliquoted for the various assay. Urinary CYFRA21‐1 and VEGF were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and telomerase detected by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol. The sensitivity of combined assay was compared to that of each single marker and urinary cytology, respectively.

Results:  In the 100 patients, the sensitivity was 74% for urinary CYFRA21‐1, 71% for telomerase, 69% for VEGF, and 38% for cytology. CYFRA21‐1, telomerase and VEGF proved significantly more sensitive than cytology, respectively (P = 0.000). The sensitivity of the combined assay in the current study was 94% and it was significantly higher than that of cytology, urinary telomerase, CYFRA21‐1 or VEGF (P = 0.000). In 50 patients with hematuria but without bladder cancer, the overall specificity of the assays was 78% for CYFRA21‐1, 84% for telomerase, 88% for VEGF, and 92% for cytology.

Conclusions:  Combined assay of the markers which show different characteristics of the tumor behaviors seemed to be of interest in the detection of bladder transitional cell carcinoma.
Hemolytic‐uremic syndrome and myocardial dysfunction in a 9‐month‐old boy
Authors: TOBIAS JOSEPH D.
Published: January 2007

Cardiovascular dysfunction in patients with hemolytic‐uremic syndrome (HUS) may be related to secondary issues such as volume overload, hypertension or electrolyte disturbances including hyperkalemia. Additionally, primary myocardial involvement has been increasingly recognized as a potential comorbid feature of HUS. We report a 9‐month‐old child with HUS who developed clinical signs of poor myocardial function with depressed myocardial function noted by echocardiography. Supportive care including mechanical ventilation and inotropic agents were necessary for approximately 10 days. Follow‐up echocardiography revealed return of normal ventricular function. Previous reports of primary cardiac involvement with HUS have included thrombotic microangiopathy of the coronary vasculature resulting in myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction or depressed myocardial function, myocarditis, congestive heart failure with dilated cardiomyopathy and pericardial effusion with tamponade. Given the potential for morbidity and mortality during the preoperative period in patients with HUS, anesthesiologists involved in the care of such patients should be aware of the potential for myocardial involvement in this disease process. Preoperatively, the routine evaluation of myocardial function may be indicated.
Survival of a child without sequelae after tracheoarterial fistula
Authors: GHAI BABITA , MAKKAR JEETINDER KAUR , BAKSHI JAYAMANTI , RANA SHELLY , SINGH RANA SANDIP , BHAGAT SANJEEV
Published: January 2007

Tracheoarterial fistula (TAF) involves erosion through the tracheal wall into the innominate artery resulting in bleeding. It is a rare but lethal complication of tracheostomy. Mortality is 100% without operative interference. Even with appropriate management, a survival rate of only 14.3% has been reported. We report a case of TAF in a child, where rapid institution of resuscitative and operative measures resulted in survival. Initial temporary control of bleeding was achieved by hyperinflation of cuff. Computed tomography (CT) angiography confirmed the diagnosis. The damaged segment of the eroded artery was resected and ligated. This case highlights the role of early diagnosis and prompt aggressive therapy for management of this potentially lethal complication.
Prospective study of the diagnostic evaluation of faecal incontinence and leakage in male patients
Authors: Titi M. , Jenkins J. T. , Urie A. , Molloy R. G.
Published: January 2007

Objective  Male faecal incontinence (FI) has received little attention. No consistent pathophysiological abnormality has been identified in those studies that have specifically assessed male patients with FI or faecal leakage (FL). This study was designed to re‐examine the different theories relating to the pathophysiology of male incontinence and to assess if manometric and ultrasound assessment yields clinically relevant information that directs patient care.

Method  This was a prospective study of all men referred to a Coloproctology clinic with incontinence. The Wexner Incontinence score was used to assess severity of symptoms. Specific investigations included anal manometry, rectal sensation and endo‐anal ultrasound (EAUS). Results were compared with a group of 20 normal male controls.

Results  A total of 59 symptomatic male patients were investigated (36 FI, 23 FL). FL and control groups had similar maximum resting (MRP) and maximum squeeze pressure (MSP). The incontinence group had a significantly lower MRP & MSP compared with controls [MRP: FI 58 (42–75.5) vs control 85 (72–104)] (P < 0.0001), [MSP: FI 167 (125–215) vs control 248 (192–302)] (P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in rectal sensation between the groups and the defecation index was also similar. EAUS detected only one external anal sphincter defect amongst the 23 male patients with FL. One external sphincter defect and three internal sphincter defects were identified amongst the 36 patients with incontinence. Of these five patients with sphincter defects, four had previously undergone anorectal surgery. [Results expressed as median (interquartile range): manometry expressed as mmHg].

Conclusion  Male patients presenting with faecal incontinence frequently show impaired sphincter function which may be associated with sphincter defects. In contrast, those presenting predominantly with FL have no morphological or physiological changes that might account for their symptoms. Investigating such patients with anorectal physiology and EAUS is usually unhelpful and can be omitted.