bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negative correlation between maorophage proooagulant and migraion ability in the course of inflammation
Authors: Vilić I. , Prokić L. M.
Published: March 2007

The importance of macrophage procoagulant activity (PCA) to cell migration is presumed. In this study we assayed the relationship between the two functions in guinea‐pig peritoneal resident macrophages and cells elicited by a sterile inflammation induction, which lasted up to 6 days. The findings pointed to an in vivo induction of PCA in macrophages, which declined with time during inflammation. A clear negative correlation between PCA and random migration ability was demonstrated. Our results suggest that the local induction of coagulation by macrophages may immobilize the cells at the site of inflammation.
Inhibitory effect of esculentoside A on tumour necrosis factor α production by human monocytes
Authors: Wang H-B. , Fang J. , Zheng Q-Y.
Published: March 2007

Esculentoside A (EsA) is a saponin isolated from the roots of Phytolacca esculenta. Previous experiments have shown that it has strong anti‐inflammatory effects. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a very important inflammatory mediator. It is known that there are two types of TNF—TNFα is from macrophages/monocytes and TNFβ is from activated lymphocytes. In order to study the mechanism of the anti‐inflammatory effect of EsA, it was determined whether TNFα production from human peripheral monocytes was altered by EsA under lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated conditions. EsA was found to decrease TNFα production in a dose‐dependent manner at concentrations higher than 1 μmol/l EsA. Recent studies have shown that EsA has a curative effect on chocolate cyst and other inflammatory diseases. Our previous studies have shown that EsA could reduce the release of platelet activating factor (PAF) from rat macrophages, and inhibit interleukin‐1 and interleukin‐6 production from routine macrophages. The reducing effects of EsA on the release of TNFα, IL‐1, IL‐6 and PAF may explain its anti‐inflammatory effect.
Syntheses of two deacetyl‐thymosin α1 analogues and their effects on low E‐rosette‐forming lymphocytes of uraemic patients
Authors: Abiko T. , Sekino H.
Published: March 2007

Two deacetyl‐thymosin α1 analogues containing Phe (4Br) or D‐Phe (4Br) residue—[D‐Phe(4Br)21]deacetyl‐thymosin α1 and [Phe(4Br)21]deacetyl‐thymosin α1, respectively—were synthesized by the manual solid‐phase method and their immunological effects on the low E‐rosette‐forming lymphocytes of uraemic patients were examined. One of the synthetic analogues, [Phe(4Br)21deacetyl‐thymosin α1, demonstrated a restorative effect on the low E‐rosette‐forming lymphocytes of uraemic patients, which was stronger than that of deacetyl‐thymosin α1, but the other analogue, [D‐Phe(4Br)21]deacetyl‐thymosin α1, showed no restorative effect under the same conditions.
Nitric oxide modulates interleukin‐2‐induced proliferation in CTLL‐2 cells
Authors: Padrón J. , Glaría L. , Martinez O. , Torres M. , Lopez E. , Delgado R. , Caveda L. , Rojas A.
Published: March 2007

The role of the L‐arginine–nitric oxide metabolic pathway was explored for interleukin‐2‐induced proliferation in the cytotoxic T lymphocyte clone CTLL‐2. Specific inhibition of nitric oxide synthase significantly diminished, in a concentration‐dependent manner, 3H‐thymidine uptake of CTLL‐2 cells in response to different concentrations of interleukin 2. Withdrawal of L‐arginine from culture medium resulted as potent as the higher inhibition obtained when blocking nitric oxide synthase with L‐arginine analogues. Furthermore, intermedial concentrations of Larginine and exogenous nitric oxide donors were found for achieving optimal IL2‐induced proliferation of CTLL‐2. These findings prompted us to suggest that intra‐ and/or inter‐cellular nitric oxide signalling may contribute to the modulation of the IL2 mitogenic effect upon cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
Regulation of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 messenger RNA level in Y‐79 retinoblastoma cells: potential implications for human stress response and immune/inflammatory reaction
Authors: Vamvakopoulos N. C. , Sioutopoulou T. O. , Mamuris Z. , Marcoulatos P. , Avgerinos P. C.
Published: March 2007

We report the regulation of type 1 receptor mRNA in Y‐79 human retinoblastoma cells, grown in the absence or presence of pharmacological levels of phorbol esters, forskolin, glucocorticoids and their combinations. To control for inducibility and for assessing the sensitivity of the Y‐79 system to glucocorticoids, corticotropin releasing hormone mRNA levels were measured in parallel. All treatments stimulated corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 gene expression relative to baseline. A weak suppression of corticotropin releasing hormone mRNA level was observed during dexamethasone treatment. The cell line expressed ten‐fold excess of receptor to ligand mRNA under basal conditions. The findings predict the presence of functional phorbol ester, cyclic AMP and glucocorticoid response elements in the promoter region of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor type 1 gene and support a potential role for its product during chronic stress and immune/inflammatory reaction.
Degranulation of rat omental mast cells by A1 receptor agonists in vitro
Authors: Northover A. M. , Northover B. J.
Published: March 2007

The haemodynamic effects of adenosine are thought to result in part from a release of mast cell amines via A3 receptor stimulation. To investigate the nature of the receptors involved in adenosine‐induced mast cell degranulation in the rat isolated omentum we have used adenosine analogues with varying specificities as activators of the A1, A2 and A3 receptors, and antagonists with differing specificities for A1 and A2 receptors. Analogues which act predominantly as A1 (e.g. N6‐cyclopentyladenosine) or as mixed A1/A2 receptor agonists (e.g. adenosine, inosine, 5′‐(Nethylcarboxamido) adenosine) caused mast cell degranulation, whereas a predominantly A3 receptor agonist (IB‐MECA) was inactive. Pre‐treatment of the omentum with the A1/A2 receptor antagonist 8‐phenyltheophylline or with the more specific A1 receptor antagonist 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine significantly reduced agonist‐induced degranulation. Pre‐treatment with disodium cromoglycate or with BN52021 also reduced degranulation of mast cells in response to N6‐cyclopentyladenosine. In the rat isolated omental mast cell we conclude that degranulation is an indirect result of A1 receptor stimulation. Platelet‐activating factor release appears to mediate at least part of the degranulation.
Differential inhibition of polymorphonuclear leukocyte recruitment in vivo by dextran sulphate and fucoidan
Authors: Osselaer N. Van , Rampart M. , Herman A. G.
Published: March 2007

The selectin‐mediated rolling of leukocytes along the endothelial cells is a prerequisite step followed by firm adhesion and extravasation into the inflamed tissue. This initial contact can be suppressed by sulphated polysaccharides. We have studied the effect of sulphated polysaccharides on the ultimate polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) recruitment and plasma leakage in rabbit skin in response to intradermal injection of various inflammatory mediators. PMN infiltration evoked by various PMN chemoattractants (FMLP, C5a desArg, LTB4 and IL‐8) was significantly inhibited after intravenous injection of dextran sulphate (25 mg/kg), heparin (2 × 90 mg/kg) or fucoidan (1 mg/kg). PMN‐dependent plasma leakage was equally well reduced by the different sulphated polymers. Vascular permeability induced by histamine or thrombin acting via a PMN‐independent mechanism was not reduced. Fucoidan was the only polysaccharide able to suppress IL‐1‐induced PMN infiltration for 60–70%. Local administration of dextran sulphate had no effect on PMN‐dependent plasma leakage. Differential inhibition of PMN recruitment was determined after injection of dextran sulphate or fucoidan depending on the type of insult. Therefore, these results suggest that different adhesion pathways are utilized during PMN recruitment in vivo in response to chemoattractants and IL‐1.
Plasma macrophage colony‐stimulating factor levels during cardiopulmonary bypass with extracorporeal circulation
Authors: Denizot Y. , Fixe P. , Cornu E. , Nathan N.
Published: March 2007

Leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia occur during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Elevated circulating concentrations of macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) are reported during thrombocytopenia and leukopenia of different origins. We have assessed M‐CSF concentrations in 40 patients undergoing CPB with ECC. Plasma M‐CSF concentrations were stable during ECC and increased at the 6th (7.3 ± 0.7 IU/μg protein) and 24th (8.6 ± 0.8 IU/μg protein) postoperative hour compared with pre‐ECC values (4.9 ± 0.5 IU/μg protein). A deep thrombocytopenia was found during ECC and until the 24th postoperative hour. A drop of leukocyte counts was found during ECC followed by an increase after ECC weaning. While no correlation was found between M‐CSF concentrations and the leukocyte counts, M‐CSF values were positively correlated with platelet counts only before and during ECC. Thus, M‐CSF is not implicated in the thrombocytopenia and the leukopenia generated during CPB with ECC. However the elevated levels of M‐CSFa few hours after the end of ECC might play a role in the inflammatory process often observed after CPB.
Induction of annexin‐1 at transcriptional and post‐transcriptional level in rat brain by methylprednisolone and the 21‐aminosteroid U74389F
Authors: Voermans P. H. , Go K. G. , Horst G. J. Ter , Ruiters M. H. J. , Solito E. , Parente L.
Published: March 2007

Brain tissue of rats pretreated with methylprednisolone or with the 21‐aminosteroid U74389F, and that of untreated control rats, was assessed for the expression of annexin‐1 (Anx‐1) and the transcription of its mRNA. For this purpose Anx‐1 cDNA was amplified and simultaneously a T7‐RNA‐polymerase promoter was incorporated into the cDNA using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Then digoxigenin‐11‐UTP was incorporated into the transcribed cRNA with T7‐RNA‐polymerase. With this probe in situ hybridization was carried out on sections of the brain. The probe was visualized by an immunoassay using an antidigoxigenin antibody conjugate. Anx‐1 protein was assessed by means of immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal antibody. The various brain areas of the control animals showed an appreciable amount of Anx‐1 at mRNA or protein level; on the other hand, the animals which had been pretreated with either steroid, showed a more intense Anx‐1 mRNA signal than the controls in many areas. In the pretreated animals Anx‐1 immunostaining was unchanged in cortex, basal ganglia, amygdala and septum, but more intense in hippocampus, hypothalamus and thalamus. In ependyma, choroid plexus, meninges, and vascular walls there was no Anx‐1 mRNA transcription detectable. An opposite profile was shown by the Anx‐1 immunoreactivity, the protein was present in control animals as well as the steroid‐pretreated animals, suggesting that here the protein was either from systemic origin, or has diffused from adjacent structures. The results indicated that Anx‐1 mRNA transcription is upregulated by either steroid, and that in the untreated animals there is a resting level of Anx‐1 mRNA transcription, presumably reflecting physiological influences on Anx‐1 expression.
Apoptotic cell death, detected ex vivo in peripheral blood lymphocytes of HIV‐1 infected persons
Authors: Velde L. F. te , Vermes I. , Haanen C. , Reutelingsperger C. P. M. , Napel C. H. H. ten
Published: March 2007

In HIV‐1 infection the ongoing depletion of CD4+ T‐lymphocytes is believed, to a large extent, to be due to apoptosis. Until now quantitative information about in vivo apoptosis of lymphocytes in HIV‐patients is scarce because of the very nature of the apoptotic process. Successful detection of apoptosis ex vivo requires the recognition of the initial phase of this process, because at a later stage the cells may not remain any longer in the circulation. We measured quantitatively the amount of early apoptotic peripheral blood lymphocytes directly ex vivo in HIV‐1 infected patients using a recently described flow cytometric assay. With this method we observed in an unselected heterogenous group of twelve HIV‐infected individuals a median percentage of apoptotic lymphocytes to be significantly higher than in ten healthy controls. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of ex vivo observed increased apoptosis of peripheral blood lymphocytes in HIV‐infected persons.
A blinded comparison of fluticasone propionate with budesonide via powder devices in adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma: a clinical evaluation
Authors: Ringdal N. , Swinburn P. , Backman R. , Plaschke P. , Sips A. P. , Kjaersgaard P. , Bratten G. , Harris T. A. J.
Published: March 2007

In Vitro and in vivo data have demonstrated that there are detectable differences between inhaled corticosteroids commonly used to treat asthma. However, controversy still remains as to whether these differences translate into clinical benefits. This 12‐week, international, randomized, doubleblind, parallel‐group study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and safety of fluticasone propionate (FP) 800 μg daily, administered as a powder via the Diskhaler®, and budesonide (BUD) 1600 μg daily, administered using the Turbuhaler®, in adult patients with moderate‐tosevere asthma. A total of 518 patients participated in the study, 256 of whom received FP and 262 BUD. Assessment of mean morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) over the 12‐week treatment period revealed a statistically significant difference in efficacy between FP 800 μg daily and BUD 1600 μg daily in favour of FP (p = 0.003), with an overall improvement of 20.9 l/min with FP compared with 12.4 l/min on BUD. Statistically significant differences in favour of FP were seen over the 12 weeks for mean evening PEF (p = 0.04), diurnal PEF variation (p = 0.03) and percentage predicted PEF (p = 0.003), as well as forced expiratory volume (p = 0.008), forced vital capacity (p = 0.02) and PEF (p = 0.005) measured at clinic visits. The median percentage of symptom‐free nights increased over the 12‐week study period in both treatment groups, with similar changes seen for the median percentage of days with symptom score < 2, rescue medication use and exacerbations of asthma. The incidence of adverse events was found to be comparable in the two treatment groups. The geometric mean ratios of serum cortisol levels were found to be 1.03 for FP, indicating no mean hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis suppression from baseline, and 0.93 for BUD (p = 0.0002 compared with FP). In summary, FP 800 μg daily showed a greater efficacy/safety ratio in the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe asthma than BUD 1600 μg daily.
Chemokines: structure, receptors and functions. A new target for inflammation and asthma therapy?
Authors: Acker F. A. A. van , Voss H-P. , Timmerman H.
Published: March 2007

Five to 10% of the human population have a disorder of the respiratory tract called ‘asthma’. It has been known as a potentially dangerous disease for over 2000 years, as it was already described by Hippocrates and recognized as a disease entity by Egyptian and Hebrew physicians. At the beginning of this decade, there has been a fundamental change in asthma management. The emphasis has shifted from symptom relief with bronchodilator therapies (e.g. β2‐agonists) to a much earlier introduction of anti‐inflammatory treatment (e.g. corticosteroids). Asthma is now recognized to be a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, involving various inflammatory cells and their mediators. Although asthma has been the subject of many investigations, the exact role of the different inflammatory cells has not been elucidated completely. Many suggestions have been made and several cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma, such as the eosinophils, the mast cells, the basophils and the lymphocytes. To date, however, the relative importance of these cells is not completely understood. The cell type predominantly found in the asthmatic lung is the eosinophil and the recruitment of these eosinophils can be seen as a characteristic of asthma. In recent years much attention is given to the role of the newly identified chemokines in asthma pathology. Chemokines are structurally and functionally related 8–10 kDa peptides that are the products of distinct genes clustered on human chromosomes 4 and 17 and can be found at sites of inflammation. They form a superfamily of proinflammatory mediators that promote the recruitment of various kinds of leukocytes and lymphocytes. The chemokine superfamily can be divided into three subgroups based on overall sequence homology. Although the chemokines have highly conserved amino acid sequences, each of the chemokines binds to and induces the chemotaxis of particular classes of white blood cells. Certain chemokines stimulate the recruitment of multiple cell types including monocytes, lymphocytes, basophils, and eosinophils, which are important cells in asthma. Intervention in this process, by the development of chemokine antagonists, might be the key to new therapy. In this review we present an overview of recent developments in the field of chemokines and their role in inflammations as reported in literature.
Cytokines as cellular communicators
Authors: Debets R. , Savelkoul H. F. J.
Published: March 2007

Cytokines and their receptors are involved in the pathophysiology of many diseases. Here we present a detailed review on cytokines, receptors and signalling routes, and show that one important lesson from cytokine biology is the complex and diverse regulation of cytokine activity. The activity of cytokines is controlled at the level of transcription, translation, storage, processing, posttranslational modification, trapping, binding by soluble proteins, and receptor number and/or function. Translation of this diverse regulation in strategies aimed at the control of cytokine activity will result in the development of more specific and selective drugs to treat diseases.
Changes in TNF and IL‐6 production after diphtheria toxoid vaccination: drug modulation of the cytokine levels
Authors: Pukhalsky A. L. , Bliacher M. S. , Danilina A. V. , Kalashnikova E. A. , Lopatina T. K. , Fedorova I. M.
Published: March 2007

The effect of vaccination with diphtheria toxoid (AD‐M) on TNF and IL‐6 production has been studied in humans. In the present study it was demonstrated that immunization with AD‐M resulted in changes of in vitro TNF and IL‐6 production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. TNF release was suppressed but IL‐6 production was stimulated. On the other hand, serum levels of TNF were markedly increased over a period of 3 weeks. It was also demonstrated that the postvaccinal cytokine production disturbances may be corrected by pretreatment with a new synthetic hexapeptid (Imunofan®). It is possible that the imunofan treatment could prevent some postvaccinal complications.
Leukotriene C4 biosynthesis in isolated August rat peritoneal leukocytes
Authors: Huebner J. M. , Eversole R. R. , Jackson W. F. , Mackenzie C. D. , Stapleton S. R. , Beuving L. J.
Published: March 2007

The mixed leukocyte population obtained from the peritoneum of the August rat is a potentially important experimental model of inherent eosinophilia that has not been well characterized. In the present study, isolated cell preparations generated a concentration‐dependent release of leukotriene (LT) C4 when exposed to the Ca2+ ionophore A23187, reaching maximal stimulation at 5.0 μM. This response was inhibited by the 5‐lipoxygenase activating protein antagonist MK‐886 (0.1 μM), nominally Ca2+ and Mg2+‐free incubation media and by activation of protein kinase C via phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (50 nM). These findings establish a model system for investigating LTC4 profiles contingent with innate peritoneal eosinophilia and are consistent with the hypothesis that cellular LTC4 biosynthesis is phosphoregulated.
The effect of an interleukin receptor antagonist (IL‐1ra) on colonocyte eicosanoid release
Authors: Smith G. S. , Rieckenberg C. , Longo W. E. , Kaminski D. L. , Mazuski J. E. , Deshpande Y. , Miller T. A.
Published: March 2007

We investigated whether an interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1ra) altered cellular release of prostanoids and leukotrienes in a transformed colonic cell line (CACO‐2) in the presence of proinflammatory stimuli. Cellular inflammation was induced by treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or the cytokine, interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β). In a separate set of experiments, cells were pretreated with IL‐1ra prior to exposure to LPS or IL‐1β. Prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) levels were quantified by ELISA assays. Both LPS and IL‐1β exposure were noted to stimulate cellular PGE2 release, a response which was significantly inhibited by IL‐1ra treatment. Either stimulant when administered alone failed to stimulate release of LTB4. When administered after IL‐1ra pretreatment however, both stimuli caused a significant increase in LTB4 release. These results suggest that a cytokine receptor antagonist can selectively influence eicosanoid production in this cell line. Furthermore, this study suggests that a IL‐1ra may have a future clinical role in the treatment of inflammatory disorders of the colon which are intimately linked to enhanced eicosanoid synthesis.
Identification of Patients at High Risk of Noncompliance in Substance Dependence Treatment
Authors: de Weert-van Oene G.H. , Burger H. , Grobbee D.E. , Schrijvers A.J.P.
Published: March 2007

Noncompliance in substance dependence treatment seriously threatens its effectiveness. Pretreatment identification of those at the highest risk allows targeting of specific compliance enhancing interventions to those who may benefit most from it. In a cohort of 292 patients entering a 30-day treatment program for substance abuse treatment, several potential predictors of noncompliance were recorded before treatment. Compliance was registered when treatment was discontinued before the 30th day. Logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of noncompliance and the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was quantified to assess their joint predictive value. Mean age was 35 years, 80% were male. During follow-up 31% became noncompliant. Independent predictors of noncompliance were male gender, less than 10 years of education, severity of medical and drug problems, and behavioral intention to comply with treatment. The area under the ROC curve was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.64–0.76). In conclusion, noncompliance in a substance abuse treatment program can be predicted using five easy to assess patient characteristics. These results may be useful in preventing noncompliant behavior early in treatment by motivational counseling strategies.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Dutch Version of the Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS)
Authors: Dijkstra Boukje A.G. , Krabbe Paul F.M. , Riezebos Truus G.M. , van der Staak Cees P.F. , de Jong Cor A.J.
Published: March 2007

Aim: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Dutch version of the 16-item Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale (SOWS). The SOWS measures withdrawal symptoms at the time of assessment. Methods: The Dutch SOWS was repeatedly administered to a sample of 272 opioid-dependent inpatients of four addiction treatment centers during rapid detoxification with or without general anesthesia. Examination of the psychometric properties of the SOWS included exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and criterion validity. Results: Exploratory factor analysis of the SOWS revealed a general pattern of four factors with three items not always clustered in the same factors at different points of measurement. After excluding these items from factor analysis four factors were identified during detoxification (‘temperature dysregulation’, ‘tractus locomotorius’, ‘tractus gastro-intestinalis’ and ‘facial disinhibition’). The 13-item SOWS shows high internal consistency and test-retest reliability and good validity at different stages of withdrawal. Conclusion: The 13-item SOWS is a reliable and valid instrument to assess opioid withdrawal during rapid detoxification. Three items were deleted because their content does not correspond directly with opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Developmental Outcome in Children with Intrauterine Exposure to Substances
Authors: Steinhausen H.-C. , Blattmann B. , Pfund F.
Published: March 2007

The developmental outcome of children born to Swiss substance-dependent mothers in a residential treatment program was studied in a sample of 61 children ranging from infancy to preadolescence (mean age = 5.10, SD = 3.10 years) by use of age-appropriate tests of intelligence. A large list of biological and psychosocial risk factors was tested for associations with outcome in the children. The mean profile of test findings across all age ranges was significantly lower than population norms and there was an excess of children with subnormal intellectual functioning. Performance IQ was associated negatively only with intrauterine substance exposure, but with none of the other risk factors. Among the various substances, predominantly heroin or methadone were responsible for this association when controls for nicotine or cannabis consumption were made. The study provides further evidence that intrauterine exposure to heroin and methadone negatively affects the developmental outcome in the offspring of substance-dependent mothers.
Human Cytomegalovirus Glycoprotein B Genotype Correlates with Different Symptoms of Infected Infants
Authors: Jin Hong , Wang Xiuxia , Li Shuomin
Published: March 2007

Objectives: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the pathogen of cytomegalic inclusion disease of infants. HCMV strains can be classified into four genotypes of glycoprotein B (gB). There are limited data concerning links between clinical symptoms and HCMV genotypes. The aims of the present study were to determine the genotype of HCMV isolates from pediatric patients who have different symptoms on the assumption that the gB genotype may influence the outcomes of congenital and prenatal HCMV infection. Methods: The gB types of HCMV were determined in urine specimens from 208 infected infants using nested polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: These data showed the dominance of the gB1 genotype in HCMV-infected infants. The distributions of HCMV gB genotypes in jaundice, malformation, and pneumonia patients are different. Conclusion: There are some relationships between the gB genotypes and the different symptoms of HCMV infection. The four gB genotypes of HCMV may have different clinical outcomes in infected infants.
Recurrent Anaphylaxis due to Non-Ruptured Hepatic Hydatid Cysts
Authors: Gelincik Asli , Özşeker Ferhan , Büyüköztürk Suna , Çolakoğlu Bahattin , Dal Murat , Alper Aydin
Published: March 2007

Background: Hydatid disease, a parasitic infestation of humans, is endemic in the Mediterranean region, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East, and mostly involves the liver. Anaphylactic reactions, which sometimes are the first manifestations of the disease, frequently occur due to cyst rupture after a minor/major trauma, though they may also be spontaneously seen on rare occasions. In extremely few studies, anaphylactic shock has been reported in patients without macroscopic rupture of the hydatid cysts. Case Report: Our patient had recurrent anaphylactic episodes without any trauma and had been misdiagnosed for several years even though the patient was living in a region endemic for hydatid disease. Conclusion: We emphasize that physicians should be highly aware of hydatid disease as a possible etiology for seemingly idiopathic anaphylactic reactions, especially in endemic regions.
The Role of Endothelium-Derived Mediators in Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction
Authors: Zietkowski Ziemowit , Bodzenta-Lukaszyk Anna , Tomasiak Maria Magdalena , Skiepko Roman , Szmitkowski Maciej , Mroczko Barbara
Published: March 2007

Background: Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a highly prevalent condition whose pathogenesis and effect on airways remain unclear. The aim of the study was to evaluate the changes in endothelial-derived mediators following intensive exercise in asthmatic patients. Methods: The study was conducted in a group of 25 asthmatic patients (15 with EIB, 10 without EIB) and 8 healthy volunteers. Changes induced by intensive exercise in the plasma concentrations of endothelin-1 (ET-1), thrombomodulin and soluble E-selectin were determined. Moreover, the possible correlations of these measurements with the results of baseline lung function, bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR), exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), baseline eosinophil cationic protein, peripheral blood eosinophilia and total IgE were investigated. Results: In the group of asthmatics with EIB, statistically significantly higher baseline concentrations of ET-1 and soluble E-selectin compared with asthmatics with negative exercise test results were revealed. In this group of patients, ET-1, thrombomodulin and soluble E-selectin concentrations significantly increased after exercise. Baseline concentrations of ET-1 as well as an increase in soluble E-selectin concentrations 60 min after exercise showed a statistically significant correlation with baseline eosinophil cationic protein, FENO and BHR. The increase in plasma concentrations of ET-1 15 min after exercise and soluble E-selectin 60 min after exercise showed a statistically significant correlation with the increase in FENO and BHR to histamine 24 h after exercise. Conclusions: We suggest that during EIB changes in the function of pulmonary endothelium occur and these changes may influence inflammation of the airway and remodeling in asthmatic patients.
Association Study between Vesicle-Associated Membrane Protein 2 Gene Polymorphisms and Fluvoxamine Response in Japanese Major Depressive Patients
Authors: Saito Shinichi , Takahashi Nagahide , Ishihara Ryoko , Ikeda Masashi , Suzuki Tatsuyo , Kitajima Tsuyoshi , Yamanouchi Yoshio , Iwata Nakao , Yamada Mitsuhiko , Yoshida Keizo , Inada Toshiya , Ozaki Norio
Published: March 2007

Background: Vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2) is a key component of the synaptic vesicle docking/fusion machinery and its mRNA reportedly increases in the frontal cortex of rats following chronic antidepressant and electroconvulsive treatment. VAMP2 is therefore thought to be involved in the mechanism of action of antidepressants and may alter their efficacy. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the VAMP2 gene is associated with clinical responses to a specific antidepressant, fluvoxamine. Methods: A total of 106 patients with major depressive disorder were given fluvoxamine (50–200 mg/day) for 8 weeks and assessed for severity of depression using the Semi-Structured Interview Guide of the Hamilton Depressive Scale (SIGH-D; 17 items) at 0 and 8 weeks. We defined a clinical response as more than a 50% reduction in baseline SIGH-D within 8 weeks, and defined clinical remission as a SIGH-D score of less than 7 at 8 weeks. Genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP. Results: Analysis of haplotype tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms as well as haplotype analysis did not reveal any significant associations. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the VAMP2 gene is unlikely to play a major role in the efficacy of fluvoxamine.
Successful Full-Term Twin Pregnancy in Hemoglobin Brockton: A Rare Hemoglobinopathy – Case Report
Authors: Dane Cem , Dane Banu , Cetin Ahmet , Yayla Murat
Published: March 2007

Introduction: Hemoglobin Brockton is indicated by the hemolytic anemia, which is rare qualitative variant of aspect of the hemoglobinopathies. Hemoglobin disorders in pregnancy are associated intrauterine growth retardation, premature birth, and low birth weight. One of the unstable hemoglobinopathies, Hb Brockton associated with pregnancy has not been previously mentioned in the literature. In this case presentation and things to be done in case of a pregnant patient with rare hemoglobinopathy have been reviewed in reference to the literature. Case Report: Twin pregnancy of a 26-year-old patient with Hb Brockton disorder which was diagnosed at the age of 11, and has led to minor hemolytic anemia crisis over the years, was observed. Due to decrease in hemoglobin level, 8 units of transfusion were made. A twin pregnancy continued without any problems until the 38th week when a caesarean section was performed due to breech-breech presentations. The hemoglobin pattern of the newborn was studied at birth and after 1 year; the variant in the mother was not found. Discussion: During pregnancies with unstable hemoglobinopathy, observation of hemoglobin levels every 3 weeks and carrying out blood transfusions when below 8 g/dl can stabilize the pregnancy in terms of the development of the baby and the mother. Patients with hemoglobinopathy carry an increased risk for complications and should therefore seek medical care early in pregnancy and be managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
Pregnancy on Intensified Hemodialysis: Fetal Surveillance and Perinatal Outcome
Authors: Bamberg Christian , Diekmann Fritz , Haase Michael , Budde Klemens , Hocher Berthold , Halle Horst , Hartung John
Published: March 2007

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of intensive fetal surveillance via Doppler ultrasound and fetal non-stress test on the perinatal outcome of pregnant women undergoing an intensified hemofiltration scheme. Methods: Five consecutive pregnancies of women undergoing intensified hemodialysis were analyzed due to the following parameters: maternal background, hemodialysis schedule during pregnancy, blood pressure, occurrence of fetal complications, occurrence of obstetric complications, gestational week at delivery, mode of delivery, and newborn outcome and follow-up. Results: All pregnancies resulted in a live birth, mean gestational age was 32 weeks. Intrauterine growth restriction occurred in 4 fetuses, pathological umbilical artery flow velocity waveforms in 2. The mean birth weight was 1,764 g (range 1,274–2,465 g). Cesarean section was performed in 3 patients because of fetal distress. None of the patients developed severe complications like pre-eclampsia. Conclusions: Although intensified dialysis enables the maintenance of stable uteroplacental and fetal perfusion, intensive fetal monitoring is mandatory to reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality in pregnant women on maintenance dialysis.
An Evaluation of the Neonatal Immune System Using a Listeria Infection Model
Authors: Byun Hyun-Jung , Jung Woon-Won , Lee Jong-Bae , Chung Hee Yong , Sul Donggeun , Kim Sang Joon , Park Chung-Gyu , Choi Inho , Hwang Kwang Woo , Chun Taehoon
Published: March 2007

Background: T helper 1 (Th1)/T helper 2 (Th2)-biased cytokine regulation may be another reason that neonates are much more susceptible to infectious disease than are adults. Objectives: We attempted to determine the ability of neonatal mice to direct the Th1 phenotype against Listeria monocytogenes (LM), because LM, an intracellular Gram-positive bacterium, induces profound cellular immunity by Th1 cells in vivo. Methods: In order to determine whether neonatal mice evidence strong Th1 activity during LM infection, neonatal mice were compared with adult mice with regard to susceptibility to LM, cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity, and cytokine profiles. Neonatal gene profiles relevant to Th1 and Th2 differentiation during LM infection were also compared between neonatal and adult mice, via real-time PCR and RT-PCR. Results: Neonatal mice were found to be far more susceptible to LM infection than adult mice, due to a lack in the induction of cytotoxic T cell activity, coupled with poor IFN-γ secretion. Further, LM-infected neonatal mice evidenced much lower levels of expression of Th1-type immune components, including IL-12, IFN-γ, Delta-4 and T-bet, as compared to those features in adult mice. These results may be due to the comparably lower expressions of mannose-bind lectins and some of toll-like receptors (TLRs) such as TLR-5, -6 and -9, necessary mediators to develop Th1 immune responses. Conclusions: Neonatal mice may not mount an adequate Th1 type immune response due to a significantly lower expression of Th1-type immune components as compared to adult mice, even when forced into a Th1-prone environment.
Induction of Apoptosis by (Z)-Stellettic Acid C, an Acetylenic Acid from the Sponge Stelletta sp., Is Associated with Inhibition of Telomerase Activity in Human Leukemic U937 Cells
Authors: Park Cheol , Kim Gi-Young , Kim Won Il , Hong Sang Hoon , Park Dong Il , Kim Nam Deuk , Bae Song-Ja , Jung Jee H. , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: March 2007

Background: (Z)-Stellettic acid C, an acetylenic acid from the marine sponge Stelletta sp., has been shown to have cytotoxic activity in some cancer cells; however, its mechanisms on malignant cell growth are not known. In this study, the potential of (Z)-stellettic acid C to induce apoptosis in human leukemic U937 cells and its effects on telomerase activity were investigated. Methods: Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assays. Apoptosis was detected using DAPI staining and annexin V fluorescein. The mRNAs of Bcl-2, inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) family and Fas/FasL system were determined by RT-PCR. Caspases and telomerase activities were measured using colorimetric assay and telomeric repeat amplification protocol enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (TRAP-ELISA), respectively. Results: Exposure of U937 cells to (Z)-stellettic acid C resulted in growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, which was associated with the modulation of Bcl-2 family expression, activation of caspases and downregulation of IAPs family members. (Z)-Stellettic acid C treatment markedly inhibited the activity of telomerase in a dose-dependent fashion. Additionally, the expression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase, a main determinant of the telomerase enzymatic activity, was progressively downregulated by (Z)-stellettic acid C treatment. Conclusions: These results suggest that (Z)-stellettic acid C could have a possible cancer therapeutic potential.
Sulfasalazine-Induced Reduction of Glutathione Levels in Breast Cancer Cells: Enhancement of Growth-Inhibitory Activity of Doxorubicin
Authors: Narang Vishal S. , Pauletti Giovanni M. , Gout Peter W. , Buckley Donna J. , Buckley Arthur R.
Published: March 2007

Background: We previously showed that the anti-inflammatory drug, sulfasalazine (salicylazosulfapyridine, SASP), can arrest proliferation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 mammary cancer cells by inhibiting uptake of cystine via the xc– cystine/glutamate antiporter. Here we examined SASP with regard to reduction of cellular glutathione (GSH) levels and drug efficacy-enhancing ability. Methods: GSH levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Cellular drug retention was determined with 3H-labeled methotrexate, and drug efficacy with a colony formation assay. Results: Incubation of the mammary cancer cells with SASP (0.3–0.5 mM) led to reduction of their GSH content in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Similar to MK-571, a multidrug resistance-associated protein inhibitor, SASP increased intracellular accumulation of methotrexate. Preincubation of cells with SASP (0.3 mM) significantly enhanced the potency of the anticancer agent doxorubicin (2.5 nM). Conclusions: SASP-induced reduction of cellular GSH levels can lead to growth arrest of mammary cancer cells and enhancement of anticancer drug efficacy.
Soy Protein and Isoflavones Influence Adiposity and Development of Metabolic Syndrome in the Obese Male ZDF Rat
Authors: Davis Jeremy , Higginbotham Allan , O’Connor Timothy , Moustaid-Moussa Naima , Tebbe Adam , Kim Young-Cheul , Cho Kae Won , Shay Neil , Adler Stuart , Peterson Richard , Banz William
Published: March 2007

Background/Aims: Previously, we demonstrated that soy protein ameliorates the diabetic phenotype in several rodent models of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS). This study was designed to further elucidate factors related to adiposity, glycemic control, and renal function in male Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF/Leprfa) rats. Methods: Animals were randomly assigned to one of four diets: control, casein (C); low isoflavone (LIS) soy protein; high isoflavone (HIS) soy protein, or casein + rosiglitazone (CR) for 11 weeks. At sacrifice, physiological, biochemical, and molecular parameters were determined. Results: Body weight and total adiposity were higher in LIS and CR diet groups despite lower food intake. Additionally, these animals exhibited differential regulation of adipose-specific proteins (PPAR-γ and GLUT4) and enzyme activity (FAS and GPDH). HIS-fed animals had reduced total and liver adiposity. Glycemic control was prolonged in both soy-based and rosiglitazone (RGZ) groups. Renal dysfunction was significantly reduced in soy-fed and RGZ-treated rodents as demonstrated by lower levels of proteinuria and dilated tubules with proteinaceous casts. Conclusion: Collectively, these data provide evidence that soy protein with low or high isoflavone content may have therapeutic significance in reducing severity of diabetes, MS, and renal disease as demonstrated in this preclinical model.
Effect of Pioglitazone, a Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonist, on Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Cao Zeling , Ye Ping , Long Chaoliang , Chen Kai , Li Xiaowei , Wang Hai
Published: March 2007

Two groups of rats were used to examine the effect of pioglitazone, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist, on rat hearts using an in vivo model of ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) to elucidate potential mechanisms. One group was the 30-min reperfusion group, which was further subdivided into sham (n = 5), vehicle (n = 6) and pioglitazone (3 mg·kg–1, n = 7) treatment groups with 30 min ischemia followed by 30 min reperfusion to detect data related to cardiac function and the area of myocardial infarction. The other group was the 120-min reperfusion group, subdivided into sham (n = 5), vehicle (n = 6), and pioglitazone 0.3 mg·kg–1 (n = 6), 1 mg·kg–1 (n = 7) and 3 mg·kg–1 (n = 6) treatment groups. Immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) and DNA agarose gel electrophoresis were performed to detect apoptosis and expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, caspase 3, MMP-2 and PPARγ protein, and MMP-2 and PPARγ mRNA. We found that, after acute treatment with pioglitazone, the ratio of necrosis to area at risk decreased by 28% (p < 0.01) and that of necrosis to left ventricle was reduced by 32% (p < 0.01), compared with the vehicle group. Heart rate and +dp/dtmax, representing the cardiac systolic function, as well as –dp/dtmax, the indicator of cardiac diastolic function, improved significantly at 1 and 30 min after reperfusion (p < 0.05–0.01). Furthermore, myocardial apoptosis was significantly suppressed by acute treatment with pioglitazone as evidenced by the decreased number of TUNEL-positive myocytes and DNA ladder, enhanced Bcl-2 protein expression, reduced Bax and caspase 3 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner compared with vehicle-treated rats. In addition, acute treatment with pioglitazone dose-dependently increased PPARγ expression and decreased MMP-2 expression at protein and mRNA levels. Our findings demonstrate that a PPARγ agonist may protect the heart from I/R injury. The protective effect is likely to occur by reducing cardiomyocyte apoptosis and inhibiting MMP-2.
Preclinical Dementia: An Italian Multicentre Study on Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Perri R. , Serra L. , Carlesimo G.A. , Caltagirone C.
Published: March 2007

Background: Different rates and cognitive predictors of conversion to dementia have been reported in subjects with different kinds of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods: A prospective, 24-month follow-up study, involving 269 subjects who strictly fulfilled criteria for the amnestic MCI. Results: Conversion rate to dementia was 21.4% per year. Seventy-nine out of the 83 individuals who developed dementia were affected by probable Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Among others, at the 24-month follow-up 24.1% were still affected by amnestic MCI, 13.3% had changed their neuropsychological profile of impairment and 17.2% were cognitively normalised. Compared to subjects who did not convert to AD, those who did convert showed poorer immediate and delayed recall and recognition of verbal and visual material at baseline as well as reduced executive abilities. A combination of age, Clinical Dementia Rating boxes and scores on delayed recall and recognition of verbal and visual material accurately identified 86% of the subjects who developed AD. Conclusions: Elderly subjects affected by an isolated memory disorder have a high probability of developing AD. The ability of verbal and visual measures to predict incipient dementia of memory impairment may be increased by the simultaneous assessment of individual features, such as age or rate of functional impairment.
The Biochemical Analysis of Methadone Modulation on Morphine-Induced Tolerance and Dependence in the Rat Brain
Authors: He Li , Whistler Jennifer L.
Published: March 2007

We have recently demonstrated that the combination of methadone and morphine enhances the ability of morphine to induce µ-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor endocytosis. As a result, rats receiving both drugs show reduced morphine tolerance and dependence. In the present study, we identify the biochemical basis for the protective effect of the drug combination. In rats treated with morphine alone, the inhibitory effect of DAMGO on forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity was significantly reduced in a brain-region- selective manner. Importantly, these reductions were prevented in animals receiving the drug combination. We found that these changes were not due to alterations in MOP receptor density, or MOP receptor-G protein coupling, as no significant change in these parameters was observed. Together these data demonstrate that neither changes in receptor number nor function are required for morphine tolerance and dependence. Rather, brain-region-selective changes in adenylyl cyclase signal transduction are critical, and both these biochemical changes and the behavioral effects are prevented by facilitating endocytosis of the MOP receptor.