bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Microcapillary Cytometry Technology and Flow Cytometry for CD4
+
and CD8
+
T-Cell Estimation
Authors: Kandathil A. J. , Kannangai R. , David S. , Nithyanandam G. , Solomon S. , Balakrishnan P. , Abraham O. C. , Subramanian S. , Rupali P. , Verghese V. P. , Pulimood S. , Sridharan G.
Published: August 2005

An alternative technology for the estimation of T cells based on a microcapillary technique (Guava Technologies, Hayward, CA) was compared to FACSCount (Becton Dickinson, San Jose, CA). Samples from 51 human immunodeficiency virus-infected and 21 healthy individuals were tested. The correlation (
r
) of the two systems for CD4
+
T cells was 0.994, and the coefficient of variation was 6.5%, establishing equable performance between the two technologies.
Role of Thromboxane A2in the Induction of Apoptosis of Immature Thymocytes by Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Rocha Paulo N. , Plumb Troy J. , Robinson Lisa A. , Spurney Robert , Pisetsky David , Koller Beverly H. , Coffman Thomas M.
Published: August 2005

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) causes apoptotic deletion of CD4+CD8+thymocytes, a phenomenon that has been linked to immune dysfunction and poor survival during sepsis. Given the abundance of thromboxane-prostanoid (TP) receptors in CD4+CD8+thymocytes and in vitro evidence that thromboxane A2(TXA2) causes apoptosis of these cells, we tested whether enhanced generation of TXA2plays a role in LPS-induced thymocyte apoptosis. Mice injected with 50 μg of LPS intraperitoneally displayed a marked increase in generation of TXA2and prostaglandin E2in the thymus as well as apoptotic deletion of CD4+CD8+thymocytes. Administration of indomethacin or rofecoxib inhibited prostanoid synthesis but did not affect thymocyte death. In contrast, thymocyte apoptosis in response to LPS was significantly attenuated in TP-deficient mice. These studies indicate that TXA2mediates a portion of apoptotic thymocyte death caused by LPS. The absence of an effect of global inhibition of prostanoid synthesis suggests a complex role for prostanoids in this model.
Lipoprotein-Dependent and -Independent Immune Responses to Spirochetal Infection
Authors: Salazar Juan C. , Pope Constance D. , Moore Meagan W. , Pope Jonathan , Kiely Thomas G. , Radolf Justin D.
Published: August 2005

In this study, we used the epidermal suction blister technique, in conjunction with multiparameter flow cytometry, to analyze the cellular and cytokine responses elicited by intradermal injection of human volunteers with synthetic analogs for spirochetal lipoproteins and compared the responses to findings previously reported from patients with erythema migrans (EM). Compared with peripheral blood (PB), lipopeptides derived from the N termini of theBorrelia burgdorferiouter surface protein C and the 17-kDa lipoprotein ofTreponema pallidum(OspC-L and 17-L, respectively) elicited infiltrates enriched in monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) but also containing substantial percentages of neutrophils and T cells. Monocytoid (CD11c+) and plasmacytoid (CD11c−) DCs were selectively recruited to the skin in ratios similar to those in PB, but only the former expressed the activation/maturation surface markers CD80, CD83, and DC-SIGN. Monocytes/macrophages and monocytoid DCs, but not plasmacytoid DCs, displayed significant increases in surface expression of Toll-like receptor 1 (TLR1), TLR2, and TLR4. Staining for CD45RO and CD27 revealed that lipopeptides preferentially recruited antigen-experienced T-cell subsets; despite their lack of antigenicity, these agonists induced marked T-cell activation, as evidenced by surface expression of CD69, CD25, and CD71. Lipopeptides also induced significant increases in interleukin 12 (IL-12), IL-10, gamma interferon, and most notably IL-6 without corresponding increases in serum levels of these cytokines. Although lipopeptides and EM lesional infiltrates shared many similarities, differences were noted in a number of immunologic parameters. These studies have provided in situ evidence for a prominent “lipoprotein effect” during human infection while at the same time helping to pinpoint aspects of the cutaneous response that are uniquely driven by spirochetal pathogens.
Interlaboratory Standardization of the Measurement of Serum Bactericidal Activity by Using Human Complement against Meningococcal Serogroup B, Strain 44/76-SL, before and after Vaccination with the Norwegian MenBvac Outer Membrane Vesicle Vaccine
Authors: Borrow Ray , Aaberge Ingeborg S. , Santos George F. , Eudey T. Lynn , Oster Philipp , Glennie Anne , Findlow Jamie , Høiby E. Arne , Rosenqvist Einar , Balmer Paul , Martin Diana
Published: August 2005

There is currently no standardized serum bactericidal antibody (SBA) assay for evaluating immune responses to meningococcal outer membrane vesicle or protein vaccines. Four laboratories, Manchester Health Protection Agency (MC HPA), New Zealand Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (NZ ESR), Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), and Chiron Vaccines (Chiron), measured SBA titers in the same panel of human sera (
n
= 76) from laboratory staff (
n
= 21) vaccinated with MenBvac. Blood samples were collected prevaccination, prior to each of the three doses of MenBvac given at 6-week intervals, and 6 weeks following the third dose. Initial results showed a number of discrepancies in results between the four participating laboratories. The greatest effect on titers appeared to be due to differences among laboratories in the maintenance of the meningococcal serogroup B test strain, 44/76-SL. A repeat study was conducted using the same frozen isolate (meningococcal serogroup B test strain 44/76-SL), freshly distributed to all four laboratories. Using SBA titers from the tilt method for all samples, and using MC HPA as the comparator, the results were as follows for NZ ESR, NIPH, and Chiron, respectively, using log
10
titers: correlation coefficients (
r
) were 0.966, 0.967, and 0.936; intercepts were 0.08, 0.15, and 0.17; and slopes were 0.930, 0.851, and 0.891. In both prevaccination and postvaccination samples from 15 subjects assayed by all four laboratories, similar increases in SBA (fourfold or greater) were observed (for 11, 11, 9, and 9 subjects for MC HPA, NZ ESR, NIPH, and Chiron, respectively), and similar percentages of subjects with SBA titers of ≥4 prevaccination and 6 weeks following each dose were found. The SBA assay has been harmonized between the four different laboratories with good agreement on seroconversion rates,
n
-fold changes in titers, and percentages of subjects with SBA titers of ≥4.
Cytokine Expression in PediatricHelicobacter pyloriInfection
Authors: Lopes Ana I. , Quiding-Jarbrink Marianne , Palha Ana , Ruivo José , Monteiro Lurdes , Oleastro Mónica , Santos Andrea , Fernandes Afonso
Published: August 2005

Helicobacter pyloriinfection is one of the most common gastrointestinal infections worldwide and almost invariably causes chronic gastritis in the infected host. A predominant Th1 profile has been demonstrated inH. pylori-infected mucosa from adults, but no previous study has evaluated in situ cytokine expression in children. We therefore examined expression of proinflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and regulatory cytokines by immunohistochemistry in cryopreserved antral biopsy specimens from 10H. pylori-infected and 10 uninfected children and correlated expression of cytokines with histology scores. Concomitant expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), IL-4, transforming growth factor β, and tumor necrosis factor alpha was seen in 8/10H. pylori-infected cases and in 5/10 noninfected cases; allH. pylori-infected subjects showed staining for at least two of the cytokines. The proportion of epithelial cytokine-specific staining did not differ significantly between the groups, either in surface or glandular epithelium. Furthermore, no significant differences were noticed between intraepithelial or lamina propria lymphocyte staining in the groups. There was, however, a tendency of higher numbers of IFN-γ- and IL-8-positive cells in theH. pylori-infected group. IFN-γ and IL-8 lamina propria lymphocyte expression correlated significantly with antrum chronic inflammation, but there was no correlation between histology scores and epithelial cytokine expression. When the same techniques were used, the cytokine response appeared to be smaller inH. pylori-infected children than in adults, and there was no clear Th1 dominance. These results therefore suggest a different mucosal immunopathology in children. It remains to be determined whether the gastric immune response is downregulated in children withH. pyloriinfection and whether this is relevant to the outcome of infection.
Gastric epithelioid haemangioendothelioma: a rare cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Sanjay P , Raman S , Shannon J , Williams G T , Woodward A
Published: August 2005

Vascular tumours of the stomach are rare, representing 0.9%–3.3% of all gastric neoplasms. A 58 year old man was admitted as an emergency with a one day history of haematemesis and melaena. He underwent an emergency laparotomy for a tumour in the lesser curve of the stomach. The tumour showed the characteristic histological and immunohistochemical features of epithelioid haemangioendothelioma. Surgery in the form of wide excision seems to be the treatment of choice for this rare neoplasm. This case highlights the difficulty in diagnosing this rare tumour preoperatively and emphasises the need for long term follow up in view of its uncertain metastatic potential.
Laparoscopic colorectal surgery: learning curve and training implications
Authors: Shah P R , Joseph A , Haray P N
Published: August 2005

Aims

This paper is a review of experience of laparoscopic colorectal surgery at a district general hospital with particular emphasis on the learning curve and training implications.

Methods

All patients undergoing colorectal surgery where laparoscopy was attempted between March 1998 and October 2003 were included in this study.

Results

There were 80 patients of which 49 had malignancy. Twenty eight stomas and 52 bowel resections were performed laparoscopically. The conversion rate for bowel resection was 32% (decreasing from 38% to 44% to 22%). This was significant (p = 0.001) when compared with stoma formation (7%). The firm has support from a specialist registrar and staff grade surgeon. In 22% of cases, one of the middle grades was the principal operating surgeon, mainly laparoscopic mobilisation and stoma formation. Only 6% of resections were performed by the middle grades. Conversely, a middle grade was the main operating surgeon in 66% of open resections and 61% of stoma formations during the same period. There were in all two deaths and 14 postoperative complications. All patients who had laparoscopic resections for malignancy had clear resection margins.

Conclusion

This audit highlights that there is a long learning curve in laparoscopic colorectal surgery with decrease in conversion rates with increasing experience. There is also a reduction in training opportunities in open surgery during the learning phase of the consultant, although this may be counterbalanced by the exposure to laparoscopic techniques. Laparoscopic colonic mobilisation, as a part of stoma formation, is a good starting point for specialist registrar training.
Meeting the non-clinical education and training needs of new consultants
Authors: Higgins R , Gallen D , Whiteman S
Published: August 2005

This review highlights the non-clinical training needs of new consultants, identifying strategies for meeting these needs. Non-clinical activities are integral to the consultant’s role and senior clinicians need training in these areas. Concerns over the quantity and quality of current provision are compounded by changes the European Working Time Directive and Modernising Medical Careers initiative will bring. Accelerated progression to senior level and reduction in time for training suggest a pressing need to respond to the needs of new consultants. Ad hoc initiatives in a range of healthcare contexts offer examples of how training needs may be met, including mentoring and continuing professional development schemes. A multi-professional strategy, incorporating elements of higher professional education in general practice and other NHS initiatives (particularly management/leadership training), may offer an appropriate framework within which to capitalise on existing opportunities. There are, however, resource implications that need to be addressed.
Do weekend plan standard forms improve communication and influence quality of patient care?
Authors: Grainge C , Traer E , Fulton J
Published: August 2005

Weekends are critical times in an inpatient stay, when daily review of patients is not routine and the usual team of doctors responsible for a patient’s care is often not available. Communication between the patient’s own doctors and the on call team is vital for continuity of care and to maintain patient safety. The provision and completeness of weekend plans was assessed before and after the introduction of a standard form. The introduction of the form led to a significant improvement in the proportion of notes containing a weekend plan and the proportion of notes containing a resuscitation decision (p<0.05), which will have a significant impact on patient care.
ALGEBRAS ASSOCIATED TO PSEUDO-ROOTS OF NONCOMMUTATIVE POLYNOMIALS ARE KOSZUL
Authors: PIONTKOVSKI DMITRI
Published: August 2005

Quadratic algebras associated to pseudo-roots of noncommutative polynomials have been introduced by I. Gelfand, Retakh, and Wilson in connection with studying the decompositions of noncommutative polynomials. Later they (with S. Gelfand and Serconek) showed that the Hilbert series of these algebras and their quadratic duals satisfy the necessary condition for Koszulity. It is proved in this note that these algebras are Koszul.
UNAVOIDABLE AND ALMOST UNAVOIDABLE SETS OF WORDS
Authors: BELL JASON P.
Published: August 2005

A set of words over a finite alphabet is called an unavoidable set if every word of sufficiently long length must contain some word from this set as a subword. Motivated by a theorem from automata theory, we introduce the notion of an almost unavoidable set and prove certain asymptotic estimates for the size of almost unavoidable sets of uniform length.
BERGMAN AND BALANCED METRICS ON COMPLEX MANIFOLDS
Authors: LOI ANDREA
Published: August 2005

In this paper we find sufficient conditions for a Bergman Einstein metric on a complex manifold to be balanced in terms of its Bochner's coordinates.
SYMMETRY REDUCTION IN THE VARIATIONAL APPROACH TO LIOUVILLE DYNAMICS
Authors: GAETA GIUSEPPE , MORANDO PAOLA , TURGUT OSMAN TEOMAN
Published: August 2005

In a recent paper, a variational principle for Liouville dynamics (vector fields preserving a volume form) was introduced. In the present paper, we discuss the relation between symmetries and conservation laws in Liouville dynamics. We recall a result by Crampin relating symmetries and conserved quantities in Liouville dynamics, and discuss how symmetry reduction is implemented in the frame of the variational principle for Liouville dynamics.
The Evolution of Polyandry: Sperm Competition, Sperm Selection, and Offspring Viability
Authors: Simmons Leigh W.
Published: August 2005

▪ Abstract  In contrast to Bateman's principle, there is now increasing evidence that female fitness can depend on the number of mates obtained. A number of genetic benefits have been proposed for the evolution of polyandry. A meta-analysis of available data suggests that polyandry, rather than multiple mating, can have a weak but significant general effect on embryo viability, as indicated by egg hatching success. Although this effect is generally regarded as evidence in favor of the genetic incompatibility hypothesis, appropriate data that test for intrinsic sire effects on embryo viability are generally unavailable. Moreover, maternal effects that could generate the result have not been adequately controlled, and there is little unequivocal evidence to suggest that fertilization is biased toward sperm bearing genotypes that would enhance offspring viability. Greater effort is required in these areas to elucidate the mechanisms underlying observed fitness effects of polyandry.
TOWARD REALISTIC INTERSECTING D-BRANE MODELS
Authors: Blumenhagen Ralph , Cvetič Mirjam , Langacker Paul , Shiu Gary
Published: August 2005

▪ Abstract  We provide a pedagogical introduction to a recently studied class of phenomenologically interesting string models known as Intersecting D-Brane Models. The gauge fields of the Standard Model are localized on D-branes wrapping certain compact cycles on an underlying geometry, whose intersections can give rise to chiral fermions. We address the basic issues and also provide an overview of the recent activity in this field. This article is intended to serve non-experts with explanations of the fundamental aspects of string phenomenology and also to provide some orientation for both experts and non-experts in this active field.
Effects of the prostaglandins PGF2αand PGE2on calcium signaling in rat hepatocyte doublets
Authors: Koukoui O. , Boucherie S. , Sezan A. , Prigent S. , Combettes L.
Published: August 2005

Coordination of intercellular Ca2+signals is important for certain hepatic functions including biliary flow and glucose output. Prostaglandins, such as PGF2αand PGE2, may modify these hepatocyte functions by inducing Ca2+increase, but very little is known about the organization of the Ca2+signals induced by these agonists. We studied Ca2+signals induced by PGF2αand PGE2in fura-2 AM-loaded hepatocyte doublets. Even though both prostaglandins induced Ca2+oscillations, neither PGF2αnor PGE2induced coordinated Ca2+oscillations in hepatocyte doublets. Gap junction permeability (GJP), assessed by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, showed that this absence of coordination was not related to a defect in GJP. Inositol ( 1 , 4 , 5 )trisphosphate [Ins( 1 , 4 , 5 )P3] assays and the increase in Ins( 1 , 4 , 5 )P3receptor sensitivity to Ins( 1 , 4 , 5 )P3observed in response to thimerosal suggested that the absence of coordination was a consequence of the very small quantity of Ins( 1 , 4 , 5 )P3formed by these prostaglandins. Furthermore, when PGE2and PGF2αwere added just before norepinephrine, they favored the coordination of Ca2+signals induced by norepinephrine. However, GJP between hepatocyte doublets was strongly inhibited by prolonged (≥2 h) treatment with PGF2α, thereby preventing the coordination of Ca2+oscillations induced by norepinephrine in these cells. Thus, depending on the time window, prostaglandins, specially PGF2α, may enhance or diminish the propagation of Ca2+signals. They may therefore contribute to the fine tuning of Ca2+wave-dependent functions, such as nerve stimulation, hormonal regulation of liver metabolism, or bile secretion, in both normal and pathogenic conditions.
Comparative studies of duodenal and macrophage ferroportin proteins
Authors: Canonne-Hergaux François , Donovan Adriana , Delaby Constance , Wang Hui-jun , Gros Philippe
Published: August 2005

Intestinal epithelial cells and reticuloendothelial macrophages are, respectively, involved in diet iron absorption and heme iron recycling from senescent erythrocytes, two critical processes of iron homeostasis. These cells appear to use the same transporter, ferroportin (Slc40a1), to export iron. The aim of this study was to compare the localization, expression, and regulation of ferroportin in both duodenal and macrophage cells. Using a high-affinity purified polyclonal antibody, we analyzed the localization and expression of ferroportin protein in the spleen, liver, and duodenum isolated from normal mice as well as from well-characterized mouse models of altered iron homeostasis. Ferroportin was found to be predominantly expressed in enterocytes of the duodenum, in splenic macrophages, and in liver Kupffer cells. Interestingly, the protein species detected in these cells migrated differently on SDS-PAGE. These differences in apparent molecular masses were partly explained by posttranslational complex N-linked glycosylations. In addition, in enterocytes, the transporter was mostly expressed at the basolateral membrane, whereas in bone marrow-derived macrophages, ferroportin was found predominantly localized in the intracellular vesicular compartment. However, some microdomains positive for ferroportin were also detected at the plasma membrane of macrophages. Despite these differences, we observed a parallel upregulation of ferroportin expression in tissue macrophages and enterocytes in response to iron-restricted erythropoiesis, suggesting that iron homeostasis is likely maintained through coordinate expression of the iron exporter in both intestinal and phagocytic cells. Our data also confirm a predominant regulation of ferroportin through systemic regulator(s) likely including hepcidin.
Colonic blood flow responses in experimental colitis: time course and underlying mechanisms
Authors: Mori Mikiji , Stokes Karen Y. , Vowinkel Thorsten , Watanabe Naoyuki , Elrod John W. , Harris Norman R. , Lefer David J. , Hibi Toshifumi , Granger D. Neil
Published: August 2005

Human inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are associated with significant alterations in intestinal blood flow, the direction and magnitude of which change with disease progression. The objectives of this study were to determine the time course of changes in colonic blood perfusion that occur during the development of dextran-sodium-sulfate (DSS)-induced colonic inflammation and to address the mechanisms that may underlie these changes in blood flow. Intravital microscopy was used to quantify blood flow (from measurements of vessel diameter and red blood cell velocity) in different-sized submucosal arterioles of control and inflamed colons in wild-type (WT) mice. A significant (18–30%) reduction in blood flow was noted in the smallest arterioles (<40 μm diameter) on days 4–6 of DSS colitis. The arteriolar responses to bradykinin in control and DSS-treated WT mice revealed an impaired endothelium-dependent, but not endothelium-independent, vasodilation in the inflamed colon. However, this impaired vasodilatory response to bradykinin after DSS treatment was not evident in mutant mice that overexpress Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase. Rescue of the bradykinin-induced vasodilation during DSS colitis was also observed in mice that are genetically deficient in the NAD(P)H oxidase subunit gp91phox. These findings indicate that the decline in blood flow during experimental colitis may result from a diminished capacity of colonic arterioles to respond to endogenous endothelium-dependent vasodilators like bradykinin and that NAD(P)H oxidase-derived superoxide plays a major role in the induction of the inflammation-induced endothelium-dependent arteriolar dysfunction.
Mechanism of sudden cardiac death in pigs with viable chronically dysfunctional myocardium and ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fallavollita James A. , Riegel Brian J. , Suzuki Gen , Valeti Uma , Canty John M.
Published: August 2005

Pigs with viable chronically dysfunctional myocardium and ischemic cardiomyopathy are at high risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). We sought to identify the arrhythmic mechanism of SCD, the relation to changes in left ventricular (LV) function, and inducibility of malignant arrhythmias before SCD. Juvenile pigs ( n = 72) were instrumented with chronic stenoses on proximal left anterior descending and circumflex arteries. Survival was only 29% 3 mo after instrumentation, and all deaths were sudden and without prodromal symptoms of heart failure. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining demonstrated necrosis in only nine animals averaging 2.3 ± 0.9% of the LV, with no difference between SCD animals and survivors. Implantable loop recorders ( n = 13) documented both ventricular fibrillation ( n = 6) and bradyasystole ( n = 2) as the arrhythmic mechanism of death. Although regional and global function were depressed [anteroseptal wall thickening 1.8 ± 0.2 vs. 4.2 ± 0.2 mm in Sham animals ( P < 0.001); fractional shortening 21 ± 2 vs. 31 ± 1% in Sham animals ( P < 0.01)], there were no differences between SCD animals and survivors. LV mass increased in animals with ischemic cardiomyopathy and was greater in animals with SCD (4.0 ± 0.2 vs. 3.1 ± 0.1 g/kg in survivors; P < 0.001). Serial programmed ventricular stimulation failed to induce any sustained arrhythmias. We conclude that pigs with viable dysfunctional myocardium and globally reduced LV function have a high rate of SCD with a spectrum of arrhythmias similar to patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. The risk is independent of necrosis but appears to increase with LV hypertrophy. Like patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, programmed stimulation is insensitive to predict SCD when viable dysfunctional myocardium is the pathological substrate.
Nitrogen dioxide enhances allergic airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in the mouse
Authors: Poynter Matthew E. , Persinger Rebecca L. , Irvin Charles G. , Butnor Kelly J. , van Hirtum Hans , Blay Wendy , Heintz Nicholas H. , Robbins Justin , Hemenway David , Taatjes Douglas J. , Janssen-Heininger Yvonne
Published: August 2005

In addition to being an air pollutant, NO2 is a potent inflammatory oxidant generated endogenously by myeloperoxidase and eosinophil peroxidase. In these studies, we sought to determine the effects of NO2 exposure on mice with ongoing allergic airway disease pathology. Mice were sensitized and challenged with the antigen ovalbumin (OVA) to generate airway inflammation and subsequently exposed to 5 or 25 ppm NO2 for 3 days or 5 days followed by a 20-day recovery period. Whereas 5 ppm NO2 elicited no pathological changes, inhalation of 25 ppm NO2 alone induced acute lung injury, which peaked after 3 days and was characterized by increases in protein, LDH, and neutrophils recovered by BAL, as well as lesions within terminal bronchioles. Importantly, 25 ppm NO2 was also sufficient to cause AHR in mice, a cardinal feature of asthma. The inflammatory changes were ameliorated after 5 days of inhalation and completely resolved after 20 days of recovery after the 5-day inhalation. In contrast, in mice immunized and challenged with OVA, inhalation of 25 ppm NO2 caused a marked augmentation of eosinophilic inflammation and terminal bronchiolar lesions, which extended significantly into the alveoli. Moreover, 20 days postcessation of the 5-day 25 ppm NO2 inhalation regimen, eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation, pulmonary lesions, and AHR were still present in mice immunized and challenged with OVA. Collectively, these observations suggest an important role for NO2 in airway pathologies associated with asthma, both in modulation of degree and duration of inflammatory response, as well as in induction of AHR.
Altered taste sensitivity in obese, prediabetic OLETF rats lacking CCK-1 receptors
Authors: Hajnal Andras , Covasa Mihai , Bello Nicholas T.
Published: August 2005

Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF) rats lack the CCK-1 receptor, are hyperphagic, progressively become obese, and develop type-2 diabetes. We recently demonstrated an increased preference for both real and sham feeding of sucrose in this strain, suggesting altered orosensory sensitivity. To investigate taste functions, we used an automated gustometer with 10-s access to different concentrations of various sapid stimuli. Tests were repeated at 10 and 18 wk of age to assess the early and advanced stages of prediabetes, respectively. Compared with age-matched, nonmutant controls, the OLETF rats showed higher avidity for sucrose at both ages. This difference increased as a function of age and tastant concentration. An exaggerated response also occurred for saccharin, alanine, and fructose, but not for Polycose. Similarly, OLETF rats consumed monosodium-glutamate more at the lower concentrations compared with controls, an effect that age also accentuated. In contrast, there was no statistical strain or age differences in responses to NaCl, MgCl2, citric acid, quinine-HCl, and the trigeminal stimulus capsaicin. These findings demonstrate that compared with controls, OLETF rats differ in their gustatory functions with an overall augmented sensitivity for sweet that progresses during prediabetes. This effect explains their overconsumption of sweet solutions and may contribute to the overall hyperphagia and obesity in this strain.
Physical activity alters the brain Hsp72 and IL-1β responses to peripheralE. colichallenge
Authors: Nickerson M. , Elphick G. F. , Campisi J. , Greenwood B. N. , Fleshner M.
Published: August 2005

Physically active rats have facilitated heat shock protein 72 (Hsp72) responses after stressor exposure in both brain and peripheral tissues compared with sedentary rats ( 11 ). This study verifies that physically active animals do not have elevated Hsp72 levels compared with sedentary animals in the hypothalamus, pituitary, or dorsal vagal complex. We then examined whether 1) physically active rats respond more efficiently than sedentary rats to a bacterial challenge; 2) peripheral immune challenge elicits brain induction of Hsp72; 3) this induction is facilitated by prior freewheel running; and 4) Hsp72 upregulation produced by peripheral immune challenge results in a commensurate decrease in the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Adult male Fischer 344 rats were housed with either a mobile or locked running wheel. Six weeks later, rats were injected intraperitoneally with saline or Escherichia coli and killed 30 min, 2.5 h, 6 h, and 24 h later. Serum endotoxin and IL-1β, and peritoneal fluid endotoxin and E. coli colony-forming units (CFUs) were measured. Hsp72 and IL-1β were measured in hypothalamus, pituitary, and dorsal vagal complex. The results were that physically active rats had a faster reduction in endotoxin and E. coli CFUs and lower levels of circulating endotoxin and cytokines compared with sedentary rats. E. coli challenge elicited significantly greater time-dependent increases of both Hsp72 and IL-1β in hypothalamus, pituitary, and dorsal vagal complex of physically active animals but not sedentary animals. Contrary to our hypothesis, increases in Hsp72 were positively correlated with IL-1β. This study extends our findings that physical activity facilitates stress-induced Hsp72 to include immunological stressors such as bacterial challenge and suggests that brain Hsp72 and IL-1β responses to peripheral immune challenge may contribute to exercise-mediated resistance to long-term sickness.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Japanese Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – Effectiveness of Behavior Therapy and Fluvoxamine
Authors: Nakatani Eriko , Nakagawa Akiko , Nakao Tomohiro , Yoshizato Chika , Nabeyama Maiko , Kudo Akiko , Isomura Kayoko , Kato Naoko , Yoshioka Kazuko , Kawamoto Midori
Published: August 2005

Background: The aim of this study was to confirm and compare the efficacy of fluvoxamine (the only licensed SSRI for treatment for OCD in Japan) and behavior therapy in treating Japanese patients with OCD. In addition, we investigated predictors of these treatments. Methods: Thirty-one outpatients meeting the DSM-III-R criteria for OCD without any axis I disorder were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions: BT (behavior therapy ± pill placebo), FLV [autogenic training (a psychological placebo for OCD) ± fluvoxamine] and control group [autogenic training (psychological placebo) ± pill placebo] for 12 weeks of treatment. The Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) and the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement Scale (CGI-I) were administered blindly at baseline and week 4, 8 and 12. Results: Twenty-eight patients completed this study. Patients in the BT and FLV groups showed significantly more improvement than those in the control group in the mean score of total Y-BOCS; moreover, the BT group showed significantly more reduction in total Y-BOCS score at the end of treatment than the FLV group (BT > FLV, p < 0.01). Patients with lower baseline total Y-BOCS, past history of a major depressive episode and absence of cleaning compulsion improved more with fluvoxamine. Conclusions: We confirmed the effectiveness of behavior therapy and fluvoxamine for Japanese patients with OCD. Behavior therapy improved the condition of OCD patients more than fluvoxamine.
Effects of Mind-Body Therapy on Quality of Life and Neuroendocrine and Cellular Immune Functions in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Elsenbruch Sigrid , Langhorst Jost , Popkirowa Kalina , Müller Twyla , Luedtke Rainer , Franken Ulla , Paul Anna , Spahn Günther , Michalsen Andreas , Janssen Onno E. , Schedlowski Manfred , Dobos Gustav
Published: August 2005

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mind-body therapy on neuroendocrine and cellular immune measures, health-related quality of life and disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in remission. Methods: Thirty UC patients in remission or with low disease activity were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 15) or a usual-care waiting control group (n = 15). Intervention consisted of a structured 60-hour training program over 10 weeks which included stress management training, moderate exercise, Mediterranean diet, behavioral techniques and self-care strategies. Quality of life, perceived stress and disease activity were assessed with standardized questionnaires (IBDQ, SF-36, PSS, CAI). In addition, the distribution of circulating lymphocytes and lymphocyte subsets as well as the β-adrenergic modulation of TNF-α production in vitro were analyzed. Urine catecholamines and plasma cortisol, prolactin and growth hormone were measured pre- and postinterventionally, and were compared with a healthy control group (n = 10). Results: In response to therapy, patients in the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in the SF-36 scale Mental Health and the Psychological Health Sum score compared with changes observed in the usual-care waiting control group. Patients in the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement on the IBDQ scale Bowel Symptoms compared with the control group. However, no significant group differences in circulating lymphocyte subsets or endocrine parameters were observed in response to therapy. In addition, no significant effects of intervention on either the basal levels of TNF-α or the suppressive action of the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol on TNF-α production were observed. Conclusion: Mind-body therapy may improve quality of life in patients with UC in remission, while no effects of therapy on clinical or physiological parameters were found, which may at least in part be related to selective patient recruitment.
Prodromal Symptoms in Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ottolini Fedra , Modena Maria Grazia , Rigatelli Marco
Published: August 2005

Background: Little is known about the prodromal phase of myocardial infarction (MI). The aim of this study was to explore this phase with methodologies which have been standardized in affective disorders. The psychological evaluation of patients with MI diagnosis is currently based on DSM-IV criteria. An alternative diagnostic and conceptual framework has been proposed by an international group of psychosomatic investigators. In this study, we are going to compare these new criteria, i.e. the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR), with DSM-IV in a population where a high prevalence of psychological problems is expected. Methods: A semistructured research interview based on Paykel’s Clinical Interview for Depression for eliciting prodromal symptoms was administered to a consecutive series of 92 patients with a first episode MI diagnosis. Two interviews for the evaluation of psychological problems were administered according to DSM-IV and DCPR criteria. Results: Most of the patients reported prodromal symptoms. Irritability, depressed mood and somatic anxiety were the most common prodromal symptoms. The results also show that the number of DCPR diagnoses was higher than the number of DSM-IV diagnoses. At least one DCPR diagnosis was found in all patients, whereas at least one DSM-IV diagnosis was present in 42 (46%) patients. Conclusions: The prodromal phase of MI was found to be characterized by prodromal symptoms of affective type. The joint use of DSM-IV and DCPR criteria was found to improve the identification of psychological factors which could affect this phase. The results should alert the physician to the fact that patients presenting with irritability, depressed mood (including demoralization), anxiety and insomnia may be at risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Sun Protection in Renal Transplant Recipients: Urgent Need for Education
Authors: Szepietowski Jacek C. , Reich Adam , Nowicka Danuta , Węgłowska Jolanta , Szepietowski Tomasz
Published: August 2005

Background: Renal transplant recipients (RTR) are considered as a high-risk group of skin cancer development. Objective: The aim of the present studywas to find out the knowledge about the harmfulness of sunlight and the methods of sun protection among RTR. Material and Methods: 151 RTR (91 males and 60 females) were surveyed using a specially designed questionnaire. Results: The knowledge about the danger of sunlight exposure among RTR appeared to be very unsatisfactory. Only 40.4% of patients knew that the development of skin cancer is connected with the exposure to sunlight. Moreover, only 68.2% of investigated individuals considered RTR as a high-risk group of skin cancer development. Although 74.8% of patients were informed about the necessity of sun protection, only 11.3% could explain what the number of the SPF (sun protection factor) means. Females significantly more often knew that RTR are especially predisposed to the development of skin cancers (p = 0.0001) and significantly more frequently could explain what the SPF number means (p = 0.006). 72.8% of RTR (females significantly more often, p = 0.02) made efforts to avoid sunlight irradiation. However, only 5.3% of the examined patients routinely used creams with SPF (females significantly more often, p < 0.0001). More than a half of the patients (62.3%) did not apply any sun protection. Conclusions: The present study revealed the urgent necessity of education concerning the harmfulness of sunlight and the methods of sun protection among RTR. Moreover, it is postulated that every patient should be routinely examined by a dermatologist in a dedicated transplant patient clinic.
Value of Direct Immunofluorescence for Differential Diagnosis of Cicatricial Alopecia
Authors: Trachsler Stefan , Trüeb Ralph M.
Published: August 2005

Background: There are diverse causes of cicatricial alopecia characterized by lack of follicular ostia and irreversible loss of hair. While clinical differentiation between the causes may be difficult, particularly with regard to lichen planus (LP), lupus erythematosus (LE) and pseudopelade of Brocq (PB), it has been suggested that both histopathologic examination and direct immunofluorescence studies (DIF) are necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of DIF studies in addition to histopathology in patients with cicatricial alopecia as a clinical feature. Methods: 136 scalp biopsy specimens received for histopathology and DIF during a 5-year period were reviewed. Results: Definitive diagnosis was achieved by careful evaluation of scalp biopsies. The most prevalent diagnoses in order of frequency were LP (26%), LE (21%) and folliculitis decalvans (20%). PB was diagnosed in 10%. In most cases, the diagnosis could be made on the basis of histopathology and independently of DIF. Characteristic DIF patterns showed high specificity, but low sensitivity for LP, and high specificity and sensitivity for LE. The DIF pattern in PB showed no difference to LP. Conclusions: Histopathology permits diagnosis in the majority of cicatricial alopecias. DIF is of value in histopathologically inconclusive cases, particularly when LE is in question.
Acne Is Not a Stigma of HIV Infection: A Review of 36 Patients
Authors: Almagro M. , del Pozo J. , García-Silva J. , Pérez-García M. , Rodríguez-Lozano J. , Pértega S. , Fonseca E.
Published: August 2005

Introduction: Several diseases with follicular occlusion have been described in HIV-infected patients and can appear isolated or associated with each other in an independent disease named ‘HIV-associated follicular syndrome’. Worsening of cutaneous lesions during the course of infection in patients with previous acne vulgaris, late onset or severe forms of acne have been reported in HIV-infected patients. Patients and Methods: A prospective study of 335 HIV-infected patients was performed in our hospital. A meticulous dermatological exploration in all patients was made, and multiple data were stored into a Microsoft Access 97 program. Patients diagnosed as having acne were considered separately, and we studied their characteristics. A statistical analysis with SPSS 9.0 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) was performed. Results: Thirty-six patients (10.8%) were diagnosed as having acne. Papulopustular lesions were the most frequent clinical presentation. Most lesions were localized on the face or on the back, and 80% of patients had mild to moderate acne; 40% of them required no treatment and the remainder was treated with topical measures, oral antibiotics and isotretinoin. 85% of cases reported the onset of acne during adolescence or before HIV infection and without any relationship with this disease. No relation between acne intensity and stage of HIV infection was observed. A multivariate analysis showed that the most important variable was age. Discussion: In contrast to previous reports, no greater intensity or modifications in acne lesions were observed in our HIV-infected patients during the course of the disease. In the majority of cases, cutaneous lesions started before HIV infection, during adolescence, and the most important factor for suffering from acne was young age. In contrast to data reported in the literature, no relation of acne lesions to CD4 lymphocyte count or AIDS case criteria was found in our patients. Conclusions: Acne in HIV-infected patients has characteristics similar to those in non-HIV-infected patients. The age is the most important factor for the appearance of lesions that usually develop during adolescence. Acne lesions are not modified by HIV infection, and no relationship with the severity of HIV infection has been observed.
Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Rosacea
Authors: Nybaek Hanne , Jemec Gregor B.E.
Published: August 2005

Background: Rosacea is a common disease, with an estimated prevalence of 5–10%. Established systemic and topical treatment is often effective but requires continuous medication. Aim: We report the outcome of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in 4 patients with rosacea. Methods: Prior treatment consisted of standard treatment with tetracycline and metronidazole. The treatment was however either ineffective or the patients were dissatisfied with the need for continuous treatment. The patients all received standard treatment with PDT. Results: The treated skin cleared in 3 of the 4 patients. Treatment with light alone did not appear to have any effect. In one of the patients there has been no relapse during a 9-month follow-up. In 2 patients, remissions lasted 3 months, during which time no additional or supplementary treatment was used. Conclusion: Our observation suggests that PDT may play a role in the future treatment of selected cases of rosacea.
Cost-Effectiveness of Once-Daily Treatment with Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Dipropionate Followed by Calcipotriol Alone Compared with Tacalcitol in the Treatment of Psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Peeters Pascale , Ortonne Jean-Paul , Sitbon René , Guignard Eric
Published: August 2005

Background: Daivobet® is a once-daily treatment of psoriasis vulgaris containing betamethasone dipropionate and calcipotriol in a new ointment vehicle. Objective: To assess the cost-effectiveness of once-daily treatment with Daivobet (4 weeks) followed by calcipotriol (4 weeks) compared to tacalcitol (8 weeks). Methods: Resource utilization was assessed within a double-blind 8-week clinical trial (all treatments for psoriasis, adverse events and concomitant dermatological medication), estimated from the French societal perspective. Results: Total direct medical costs for psoriasis were comparable (Daivobet: EUR 107.53 and tacalcitol EUR 113.50) despite a higher acquisition cost for Daivobet. The probability of ≧75% reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (effectiveness criterion) was 46.6% with Daivobet and 13.9% with tacalcitol at 4 weeks, and 44.6 and 23.8%, respectively, at 8 weeks (both: p < 0.001). Over 8 weeks, Daivobet was almost twice as cost-effective as tacalcitol (EUR 241.22 per successful treatment vs. EUR 476.70); this result was robust to sensitivity assumptions. Conclusion: Daivobet is more effective and less costly than tacalcitol for treating psoriasis.
The Relation between Homocysteine Levels and Development of Alzheimer’s Disease in Mild Cognitive Impairment Patients
Authors: Annerbo Sylvia , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Lökk Johan
Published: August 2005

The aim of this study was to investigate over a 3-year period the connection between homocysteine (Hcy) levels and development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Hcy was analyzed in 68 men, mean age 65 years, and 68 women, mean age 64 years. Age, sex, cobalamin, folate, creatinine, and thyroid profiles as well as results of Mini-Mental State Examination at the first visit to the memory investigation unit of a geriatric department were recorded from patient journals collected between 1992 and 1999. The total numbers of persons who converted to AD within a period of 3 years from initial investigation with baseline Hcy sampling was 12 of 46 (26%) males, and 18 of 50 women (36%). The total percentage of men and women converting to AD was 31%. Thirty-three percent of men with Hcy levels >20 µmol/l converted to AD. The corresponding figure for men with Hcy levels 20–17 µmol/l was 50%, whereas none of the 18 men with Hcy levels <17 µmol/l converted to AD. These differences were statistically significant. There was also a statistically significant difference between the percentage of women with Hcy levels >16 µmol/l who converted to AD (45%) as compared to those with Hcy levels <16 µmol/l who converted (21%). These findings are inconsistent with the results of other studies showing a positive correlation with hyperhomocysteinemia and occurrence of AD. However, our findings tentatively suggest a possible protective effect of low/normal Hcy levels on dementia conversion in MCI patients.