bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence, Clinical Presentation and Location at Diagnosis of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Prospective Population‐Based Study in Northern France (1988‐1999)
Authors: Auvin Stéphane , Molinié Florence , Gower‐Rousseau Corinne , Brazier Franck , Merle Véronique , Grandbastien Bruno , Marti Raymond , Lerebours Eric , Dupas Jean‐Louis , Colombel Jean‐Frédéric , Salomez Jean‐Louis , Cortot Antoine , Turck Dominique
Published: July 2005

Objective:

To assess the incidence and location at diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease in children and adolescents in northern France between 1988 and 1999.

Methods:

A 12‐year prospective population‐based study was conducted by gastroenterologists and pediatric gastroenterologists of northern France (1,312,141 children <17 years of age).

Results:

From 1988 to 1999, 509 cases of childhood inflammatory bowel disease were recorded (7.2% of all inflammatory bowel disease cases in Northern France): 367 Crohn disease, 122 ulcerative colitis and 20 indeterminate colitis. The mean standardized incidence was 3.1/105 for inflammatory bowel disease as a whole (2.3 for Crohn disease, 0.8 for ulcerative colitis and 0.12 for indeterminate colitis). Crohn disease location at diagnosis was: small bowel and colon (71%), colon only (10%) and small bowel only (19%). Location of initial ulcerative colitis was: proctitis (11%), left colitis (57%) and pancolitis (32%). Although ulcerative colitis incidence remained stable (0.8), Crohn disease incidence increased from 2.1 in 1988 to 1990 to 2.6 in 1997 to 1999 (P = 0.2).

Conclusions:

The incidence of Crohn disease in the children of northern France showed an increasing trend (20%; not significant) during the 12‐year period while the incidence of ulcerative colitis remained stable. In the entire population(children and adults)the incidence of Crohn disease increased significantly (+23%; P < 0.001), while the incidence of ulcerative colitis decreased (−17%; P < 0.0001).
Intracranial Vascular Abnormalities in Patients with Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Emerick Karan M , Krantz Ian D , Kamath Binita M , Darling Crystal , Burrowes Delilah M , Spinner Nancy B , Whitington Peter F , Piccoli David A
Published: July 2005

Objectives:

To define the spectrum of intracranial events and cerebrovascular lesions in patients with Alagille syndrome using magnetic resonance imaging with angiography of the head and medical histories and to correlate the presence of lesions with the clinical outcome of bleeding or ischemic intracranial events.

Methods:

26 patients with Alagille syndrome underwent magnetic resonance imaging with angiography of the head; 22 had no symptoms and underwent study for screening purposes and 4 were symptomatic with neurologic changes. The results of studies and the history of ischemic intracranial events were reviewed.

Results:

Cerebrovascular abnormalities were detected in 10 of 26 (38%) patients (9 by head magnetic resonance imaging with angiography and 1 by necropsy). The findings included stenoses of the internal carotid arteries unilaterally (n = 5) or bilaterally (n = 3), basilar artery aneurysm (n = 1) and middle cerebral artery aneurysm (n = 1). Among the 9 patients with cerebrovascular abnormalities detected by magnetic resonance imaging with angiography, 5 had no symptoms (23%, 5 of 22) and 4 were symptomatic. Thus, 100% of symptomatic patients had detected abnormalities and 23% of screened, asymptomatic patients had detected anomalies. Screening magnetic resonance imaging with angiography failed to detect vascular anomalies in 2 asymptomatic patients who had fatal ischemic intracranial events years later. There was evidence of progression of vascular abnormalities in 4 patients. Ischemic intracranial events occurred in 10 of 26 (38%) patients and were associated with cerebrovascular abnormalities in 6 of 10 patients.

Conclusion:

The cerebral vasculopathy of Alagille syndrome predominantly involves the internal carotid arteries. It is more prevalent than would be suggested by the number of symptomatic individuals, appears to be progressive and shares many similarities with moyamoya. Magnetic resonance imaging with angiography is useful to detect these lesions and may have a valuable role in screening for treatable lesions such as aneurysms.
Helicobacter pylori Infection and Abdominal Symptoms Among Swedish School Children
Authors: Tindberg Ylva , Nyrén Olof , Blennow Margareta , Granström Marta
Published: July 2005

Background:

The role of Helicobacter pylori infection in the etiology of abdominal symptoms remains unclear. Our aim was to investigate the association between type‐specific H. pylori infection and gastrointestinal symptoms among school children in Stockholm, Sweden.

Methods:

In a community‐based cross‐sectional study, 695 children aged 10‐12 years participated with a blood sample and a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics and gastrointestinal symptoms, including minor abdominal pain not necessitating medical consultation, during the preceding six months. Infection was investigated by an enzyme‐linked immuno‐sorbent assay and confirmed by immunoblot and urea breath test.

Results:

Abdominal pain was reported by 440 (63%) children and recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) by 88 (13%). Of 112 (16%) infected children, 73% had antibodies to CagA and 59% to VacA. There was no positive association between H. pylori status and the occurrence of abdominal pain; in fact, the association with any abdominal pain report was inverse (odds ratio [OR] 0,5; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.3‐0.8), while RAP was unrelated to the infection (OR 1.0; 95% CI 0.5‐2.1) when adjusted for gender, age and family background variables. The prevalence of RAP tended to be lower among children harboring CagA+/VacA+ infections than among the uninfected (adjusted OR 0.3; 95%CI 0.1‐1.1). Furthermore, CagA+/VacA+ infected children reported less acid regurgitation (adjusted OR 0.2; 95% CI 0.1‐0.5).

Conclusions:

Taking background factors into account, the presence of H. pylori is not accompanied by an increased occurrence of abdominal symptoms in Swedish 10‐12‐year‐olds. However, unexpected differential associations with strain specific infections may indicate a so far overlooked complex relationship that needs to be further confirmed.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children and Adolescents: Recommendations for Diagnosis‐The Porto Criteria
Authors:   IBD Working Group of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN)
Published: July 2005

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease may present before the age of 20 years in 25% to 30% of all patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Reported incidence figures vary considerably depending on the collection of data. Multicenter, multinational collaboration is needed when studying pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. The essential first step is uniformity in the work‐up and criteria used for diagnosis. The Porto diagnostic criteria presented here provide the tool that is needed. These criteria are the result of consensus reached by the ESPGHAN inflammatory bowel disease working group. Diagnosis of Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis and indeterminate colitis is based on clinical signs and symptoms, endoscopy and histology and radiology. Every child suspected of inflammatory bowel disease should undergo a complete diagnostic program consisting of colonoscopy with ileal intubation, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and (in all cases except in definite ulcerative colitis) radiologic contrast imaging of the small bowel. Multiple biopsies from all segments of the gastrointestinal tract are needed for a complete histologic evaluation. A diagnosis of indeterminate colitis cannot be made unless a full diagnostic program has been performed.
A modelling approach to estimate the sensitivity of pooled faecal samples for isolation of
Salmonella
in pigs
Authors: Arnold Mark E , Cook Alasdair , Davies Rob
Published: July 2005

The objective of this study was to develop and parametrize a mathematical model of the sensitivity of pooled sampling of faeces to detect
Salmonella
infection in pigs. A mathematical model was developed to represent the effect of pooling on the probability of
Salmonella
isolation. Parameters for the model were estimated using data obtained by collecting 50 faecal samples from each of two pig farms. Each sample was tested for
Salmonella
at individual sample weights of 0.1, 0.5, 1, 10 and 25 g and pools of 5, 10 and 20 samples were created from the individual samples. The highest test sensitivity for individual samples was found at 10 g (90% sensitivity), with the 25 g test sensitivity equal to 83%. For samples of less than 10 g, sensitivity was found to reduce with sample weight. Incubation for 48 h was found to produce a more sensitive test than incubation for 24 h. Model results found increasing sensitivity with more samples in the pool, with the pools of 5, 10 and 20 being more sensitive than individual sampling, and the pools of 20 being the most sensitive of those considered.
Traffic control in transportation systems
Authors: Dridi Mahjoub , Mesghouni Khaled , Borne Pierre
Published: July 2005

Purpose

This paper deals with real‐time control of urban traffic with an emphasis on public transportation systems. The main objective is the regulation of traffic after the occurrence of disturbances. In a few words, the problem is to find a feasible schedule for some vehicles of some lines subject to certain constraints in order to design a decision support system (DSS) that detects, analyses and resolves disturbances.

Design/methodology/approach

This work is achieved in cooperation with a public transport company called SEMURVAL. It consists of developing a DSS for the future transportation network of Valenciennes (city in the north of France). As a consequence, regulators of traffic have to treat a new lot of information and it becomes necessary to assist them in order to keep up with demands and to come up to passengers' expectations and hopes.

Findings

From the case study finds that the solution proposed assures that arrival times of vehicles are more regular.

Originality/value

The solution proposed presents a good combination of scheduling decisions permitting the good regulation of traffic.
An aircraft service scheduling model using genetic algorithms
Authors: Cheung Angus , Ip W.H. , Lu Dawei , Lai C.L.
Published: July 2005

Purpose

In this paper, the authors propose the application of an intelligent engine to develop a set of computational schedules for the maintenance of vehicles to cover all scheduled flights. The aim of the paper is to maximize the utilization of ground support vehicles and enhance the logistics of aircraft maintenance activities.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model is formulated and the solution is obtained using genetic algorithms (GA). Simulation is used to verify the method using an Excel GA generator. The model is illustrated with a numerical case study, and the experience of this project is summarized.

Findings

The results indicate that this approach provides an effective and efficient schedule for deploying the maintenance equipment resources of the company, China Aircraft Service Limited.

Originality/value

The proposed model using the GA generator provides an effective and efficient schedule for the aircraft maintenance services industry.
Habitat related differences in lipid reserves of some exploited fish species in the north‐western Mediterranean continental shelf
Authors: Lloret J. , Galzin R. , Gil de Sola L. , Souplet A. , Demestre M.
Published: July 2005

At a large‐scale, the lipid content in the muscle of Pagellus acarne and Pagellus erythrinus was higher in the Gulf of Lions than in the Catalan Sea. Furthermore, there was a significant effect of depth on lipid content of Mullus barbatus, Mullus surmuletus and P. acarne, fishes with the highest lipid levels inhabiting the shallowest parts of the Gulf of Lions (all three species) and the Catalan Sea (last two species). At a small‐scale, the study revealed differences in the condition of Diplodus sargus sargus between protected (Natural Park of Cap de Creus) and the unprotected habitats. Total lipid content in the muscle of D. s. sargus during spawning was higher within the protected area than in adjacent unprotected rocky areas. Because lipids play a critical role in the health, growth and reproduction of fishes, results from this study support the relative importance of some habitats (shallow v. deeper parts of the continental shelf, the Gulf of Lions v. the Catalan Sea, and the protected bottom areas of the Natural Park of Cap de Creus v. the unprotected bottom areas) for the productivity of different Mediterranean fishes.
Diet preference reflects the ontogenetic shift in microhabitat use in Lipophrys pholis
Authors: Monteiro N. M. , Quinteira S. M. , Silva K. , Vieira M. N. , Almada V. C.
Published: July 2005

Based on the heterogenous nature of Lipophrys pholis diet, the stage of the species’ ontogenetic development when major niche shifts occurred was identified, and the causes that force this blennid to change its feeding behaviour, vertical distribution and shelter occupation were considered. The diet analysis of the different size classes consistently showed two clusters, grouping individuals < or >8 cm total length. This shift occurred simultaneously with the onset of reproduction; it seemed to be independent of inter‐ and intraspecific competition and reflected a quantitative and qualitative alteration of the dietary constituents. The analysis of the diet of other sympatric intertidal blennids, Lipophrys trigloides and Coryphoblennius galerita, showed that, apart from the first developmental stages, there seemed to be no important dietary overlap. The inevitability of this niche alteration could be explained by the combination of at least two different factors: the development of the scraping capability that enabled the fish to feed on large benthic prey, together with the limited number of suitable shelters that were available in rock pools.
Gender identification of shovelnose sturgeon using ultrasonic and endoscopic imagery and the application of the method to the pallid sturgeon
Authors: Wildhaber M. L. , Papoulias D. M. , DeLonay A. J. , Tillitt D. E. , Bryan J. L. , Annis M. L. , Allert J. A.
Published: July 2005

Monthly sampling of shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus, a biological surrogate for the endangered pallid sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus, was conducted to develop a multi‐seasonal profile of reproductive stages. Data collected included histological characteristics of gonads from wild caught fish and laboratory and field ultrasonic and endoscopic images. These data were used to compare effectiveness of ultrasonic and endoscopic techniques at identifying gender of adult shovelnose sturgeon at different reproductive stages. The least invasive method (i.e. ultrasound) was least effective while the most invasive (i.e. endoscope through an abdominal incision) was the most effective at identifying shovelnose sturgeon gender. In most cases, success rate for identifying males was greater than females, with success at identifying both genders greater in more advanced reproductive stages. Concomitantly, for most months average reproductive stage was more advanced for males than females. April and May were the months with the most advanced reproductive stage, and were the months when ultrasound was most effective. Methods were also applied in the Upper Missouri River to validate their use on pallid sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus. Ultrasound was successful at identifying pallid sturgeon gender, however, endoscopic examination through the urogenital duct was only successful at identifying pallid sturgeon gender when the urogenital duct was not opaque.
Effect of feeding level and feeding frequency on specific dynamic action in Silurus meridionalis
Authors: Fu S. J. , Xie X. J. , Cao Z. D.
Published: July 2005

The effect of feeding level (FL; 0·5 to 4% dry diet mass per wet fish body mass) and feeding frequency (once every 4 days to twice per day) on postprandial metabolic response was investigated in southern catfish Silurus meridionalis at 27·5° C. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the specific dynamic action (SDA) coefficient among the groups of different feeding levels (P > 0·05). The duration increased from 26·0 to 40·0 h and the peak metabolic rate increased from 207·8 to 378·8 mg O2 kg−1 h−1 when the feeding level was increased from 0·5 to 4%. The relationship between the peak metabolic rate (RP, mg O2 kg−1 h−1) and FL could be described as: RP = 175·4 + 47·3 FL(r2 = 0·943, n = 40, P < 0·001). The relationship between the SDA duration (D, h) and FL could be described as D=30·97FL0·248 (r2=0·729, n=40, P < 0·001).
Spawning and maternal‐care behaviours of a copulating sculpin,Radulinopsis taranetzi
Authors: Abe T. , Munehara H.
Published: July 2005

The fertilization mode, and spawning and egg‐care behaviours of the sculpinRadulinopsis taranetziwere investigated in the laboratory. Embryonic development began only after the eggs came into contact with sea water. Females spawnedc. 1000 eggs and covered them with sand using their pectoral and caudal fins. Unlike other cottids, the females guarded the egg masses after spawning. During the parental period, the supramaxillary lamina and mandibular lamina of females extended to form a disc‐like structure, which was used to ‘suck’ water from near the surface of the egg mass. The frequency and duration of this ‘sucking’ behaviour increased gradually until hatching, which occurred after 23–26 days at 8° C. The oxygen consumption of the embryos was positively related to the ‘sucking’ activity. All females in this study spawned only once during the spawning season, in contrast with the paternal‐care copulating cottids, which are multiple spawners.
Melanophore constellations allow robust individual identification of wild 0+ year Atlantic salmon
Authors: Donaghy M. J. , Youngson A. F. , Bacon P. J.
Published: July 2005

Melanophore constellation patterns on the heads of 0+ year Atlantic salmon Salmo salar allowed robust identification of individuals, and were probably unique. Reliable identification was possible from shortly after emergence until at least 16 months later. The method for recording the patterns was inexpensive, required no special equipment and had no additional physical impact on the fish.
Digestion and absorption of a pure triacylglycerol and a free fatty acid by Clupea harengus L. larvae
Authors: Morais S. , Rojas‐Garcia C. R. , Conceição L. E. C. , Rønnestad I.
Published: July 2005

The digestion, absorption and post absorptive metabolism of a radiolabelled triacylglycerol (TAG; triolein) and a free fatty acid (FFA; oleic acid), delivered by tube feeding, was studied in herring Clupea harengus larvae, using metabolic chambers and video analysis. In general, a large amount of the delivered lipid was evacuated. Most of the evacuation occurred between 2 and 6 h after tube feeding although a group of larvae responded by rapidly evacuating the lipid (>50% before 2 h). The volume of the tube‐fed lipid affected its utilization. A small volume of triolein (9·2 nl, representing c. 6% of gut filling capacity) resulted in a lower proportion of fast evacuating larvae and improved utilization (lower evacuation and higher absorption: body incorporation and catabolism) compared with 50·6 nl (c. 17% of gut filling capacity). Increases in the volume of tube fed triolein enhanced only marginally label absorption and led to a steep rise in evacuation. At a comparable high volume (50·6 nl), oleic acid, which does not require digestion, was better absorbed and less evacuated than triolein. The video observation of the lipid digestive process revealed a considerable gut contractile activity that appeared effective in processing the tube fed lipid. Also, the gut wall seemed very sensitive to physical pressure. Signs of chemical degradation during lipid digestion were also noted. The metabolic studies, together with video image analysis, suggested that the limiting step for the utilization of high dietary lipid levels may have been the lipid absorption into the enterocytes and transport into the body, rather than lipid digestion. The results support the notion that the rate of lipid digestion and absorption in fishes is slower than that of mammals.
Off balance: T-cells in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides
Authors: Lamprecht P
Published: July 2005

There is substantial evidence that T-cells are off balance in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides. Genetic risk factors may influence shaping of the TCR repertoire and regulatory control of T-cells in predisposed individuals. T-cells are found in inflammatory lesions. Vigorous Th1-type responses are seen in Wegener's granulomatosis and microscopic angiitis, whereas a Th2-type response predominates in Churg–Strauss syndrome. Oligoclonality and shortened telomers indicate antigen-driven clonal expansion and replicative senescence of T-cells in ANCA-associated vasculitides. Potent CD28– Th1-type cells displaying an effector-memory/late differentiated, senescent phenotype are expanded in peripheral blood and are found in granulomatous lesions in Wegener's granulomatosis. Differences in proliferative peripheral blood T-cell responses to the autoantigens proteinase 3 (PR3)- and myeloperoxidase (MPO) have not consistently been detected between patients with ANCA-associated vasculitides and healthy controls in vitro. To recognize an autoantigen, break tolerance, and maintain autoimmune disease T- and B-cells require particular triggers and lymphoid structures. There is preliminary evidence of lymphoid-like structures and possible maturation of autoreactive PR3-ANCA-specific B-cells in granulomatous lesions in Wegener's granulomatosis. Alteration of the T-cell response and anomalous autoantigen-presentation in lymphoid-structures could facilitate development of autoimmune disease in ANCA-associated vasculitides.
Frequent false positive beta human chorionic gonadotropin tests in immunoglobulin A deficiency
Authors: Knight A K , Bingemann T , Cole L , Cunningham-Rundles C
Published: July 2005

A patient with IgA deficiency had a series of positive serum pregnancy tests which led to medical and surgical procedures for suspected molar pregnancy. These tests were found to be falsely positive due to heterophile antibody. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of false positive βhCG assays in sera of IgA deficient patients. Sera from a panel of IgA deficient (IgA < 7 mg/dl) patients were tested for the presence of βHCG using three different assays, and also for IgG anti-goat and anti-mouse antibodies. Patients were seen at Mount Sinai Medical Center and included 54 patients (ages 1–80 years, 32 females, 22 males) with IgA deficiency. Thirty percent of 54 IgA deficient patient sera yielded positive pregnancy tests by one or more of the three βhCG assays, however, none of the patients were pregnant. In comparison to sera of normal controls, 39% of the patient sera contained significant amounts of anti-goat antibody and 18% contained significant amounts of anti-mouse antibody. While heterophile antibodies are common in IgA deficient serum, false positive assays for βhCG in IgA deficient serum have not been previously reported. The possibility of false positive test results should be considered prior to invasive procedures in IgA deficient patients.
Salvia miltiorrhizawater-soluble extract, but not its constituent salvianolic acid B, abrogates LPS-induced NF-κB signalling in intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Kim J S , Narula A S , Jobin C
Published: July 2005

Herbal medicine has become an increasing popular therapeutic alternative among patients suffering from various inflammatory disorders. The Salvia miltiorrhizae water-soluble extract (SME) have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. However, the mechanism of action and impact of SME on LPS-induced gene expression is still unknown. We report that SME significantly abrogated LPS-induced IκB phosphorylation/degradation, NF-κB transcriptional activity and ICAM-1 gene expression in rat IEC-18 cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that LPS-induced RelA recruitment to the ICAM-1 gene promoter was inhibited by SME. Moreover, in vitro kinase assay showed that SME directly inhibits LPS induced IκB kinase (IKK) activity in IEC-18 cells. To investigate the physiological relevance of SME inhibitory activity on NF-κB signalling, we used small intestinal explants and primary intestinal epithelial cells derived from a transgenic mouse expressing the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the transcriptional control of NF-κB cis-elements (cis-NF-κBEGFP). SME significantly blocked LPS-induced EGFP expression and IκBα phosphorylation in intestinal explants and primary IECs, respectively. However, salvianolic acid B, an activate component of SME did not inhibit NF-κB transcriptional activity and IκB phosphorylation/degradation in IEC-18 cells. These results indicate that SME blocks LPS-induced NF-κB signalling pathway by targeting the IKK complex in intestinal epithelial cells. Modulation of bacterial product-mediated NF-κB signalling by natural plant extracts may represent an attractive strategy towards the prevention and treatment of intestinal inflammation.
Interleukin-15 increases neutrophil adhesion onto human respiratory epithelial A549 cells and attracts neutrophilsin vivo
Authors: Pelletier M , Girard D
Published: July 2005

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a neutrophil agonist that plays a role in inflammatory disorders, including a variety of pulmonary diseases. Adhesion of neutrophils onto pulmonary cells is a major event leading to development of inflammation. Recently, elevated levels of IL-15 have been associated with different pulmonary diseases. There is no clear evidence that IL-15 modulates cell surface expression of adhesion molecules in neutrophils, or that IL-15 is involved in neutrophil adhesion onto pulmonary cells. Also, it is not clear if IL-15 induces a neutrophilic inflammation in vivo. This study was aimed at elucidation of these issues. Neutrophils were treated with IL-15 and cell surface expression of CD11a, CD11b, CD11c and CD18 was monitored by flow cytometry. The human respiratory epithelial A549 cell line was used as a substrate for the neutrophil adhesion assay and cell surface expression of CD50, CD54 and CD106 was monitored in IL-15-induced A549 cells. The murine air pouch model was used for investigating potential neutrophilic inflammation induced by IL-15 in vivo. IL-15 significantly increased neutrophil cell surface expression of CD11b and CD18 and up-regulated A549 cell surface expression of CD54. Moreover, A549 cells were found to express IL-15R components and adhesion of neutrophils onto A549 cells was increased when neutrophils or A549 cells were treated with IL-15. Finally, IL-15 induced neutrophilic inflammation in vivo and concentrations of IL-6 and CXCL2/MIP-2 were increased in IL-15-induced pouches. IL-15 might participate in inflammatory pulmonary diseases by attracting neutrophils, modulating cell surface expression molecules and increasing neutrophil adhesion onto pulmonary cells.
Pulse pressure vs. total arterial compliance as a marker of arterial health
Authors: Haluska B. A. , Jeffriess L. , Fathi R. B. , Mottram P. M. , Carlier S. G. , Marwick T. H.
Published: July 2005

Background  Brachial pulse pressure (BPP) is a predictor of outcome in epidemiologic studies, but brachial and aortic pulse pressure (AoPP) may not correspond and both are influenced by multiple parameters including arterial properties and cardiac output. We sought to what extent pulse pressure (PP) measurements reflected direct measurement of arterial properties, assessed as total arterial compliance (TAC).

Methods  We studied 123 patients (76 men; age 55 ± 11); 31 normal controls, 46 patients with coronary artery disease and 46 patients with hypertension. PP was determined from brachial cuff pressure and TAC was measured by simultaneous radial applanation tonometry and pulsed wave Doppler of the LV outflow. AoPP was calculated using a transfer function from the radial waveform.

Results  There was a significant difference between BPP and AoPP (57 ± 16 vs. 45 ± 14; P < 0·0001), although TAC correlated with BPP (r = −0·72; P = 0·01) and AoPP (r = −0·66; P = 0·01). In a multiple linear regression, the difference between BPP and AoPP was predicted by cardiac output (CO) (P = 0·002) and gender (P = 0·03). Bland‐Altman analysis showed the best correspondence between BPP and AoPP in the middle tertile (CO 4·7 to 5·7 L min−1) with less correlation in the low and high tertiles. The same analysis by gender showed a higher difference in women than men (14 ± 6 vs. 10 ± 5; P < 0·0001). The difference between BPP and AoPP showed the best correlation in the control group and the worst in the hypertension group.

Conclusion  BPP correlates with TAC in men with normal cardiac function. However, in women, in patients at the low and high extremes of function, and in patients with preclinical and overt cardiovascular disease, there appears to be incremental value in measuring TAC.
International conference on the healthy effect of virgin olive oil
Authors: Jaen
Published: July 2005

Ageing represents a great concern in developed countries because the number of people involved and the pathologies related with it, like atherosclerosis, morbus Parkinson, Alzheime's disease, vascular dementia, cognitive decline, diabetes and cancer.

Epidemiological studies suggest that a Mediterranean diet (which is rich in virgin olive oil) decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in virgin olive oil, improves the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as the lipoprotein profile, blood pressure, glucose metabolism and antithrombotic profile. Endothelial function, inflammation and oxidative stress are also positively modulated. Some of these effects are attributed to minor components of virgin olive oil. Therefore, the definition of the Mediterranean diet should include virgin olive oil.

Different observational studies conducted in humans have shown that the intake of monounsaturated fat may be protective against age‐related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.

Microconstituents from virgin olive oil are bioavailable in humans and have shown antioxidant properties and capacity to improve endothelial function. Furthermore they are also able to modify the haemostasis, showing antithrombotic properties.

In countries where the populations fulfilled a typical Mediterranean diet, such as Spain, Greece and Italy, where virgin olive oil is the principal source of fat, cancer incidence rates are lower than in northern European countries.

The protective effect of virgin olive oil can be most important in the first decades of life, which suggests that the dietetic benefit of virgin olive oil intake should be initiated before puberty, and maintained through life.

The more recent studies consistently support that the Mediterranean diet, based in virgin olive oil, is compatible with a healthier ageing and increased longevity. However, despite the significant advances of the recent years, the final proof about the specific mechanisms and contributing role of the different components of virgin olive oil to its beneficial effects requires further investigations.
An interaction between the TaqIB polymorphism of cholesterol ester transfer protein and smoking is associated with changes in plasma high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in Turks
Authors: Hodoğlugil U , Williamson DW , Huang Y , Mahley RW
Published: July 2005

Low levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) are an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. We investigated the effects of the TaqIB polymorphism of cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) on CETP activity and plasma HDL‐C levels in random nondiabetic and self‐reported diabetic subjects in a population with very low HDL‐C levels. The rare B2B2 genotype was associated with significantly higher HDL‐C levels and lower CETP activity in random subjects and with higher HDL‐C in diabetic subjects. After stratification of random subjects by smoking status, the common B1B1 genotype was associated with lower HDL‐C levels than the B2B2 genotype. Although smoking was associated with lower HDL‐C, especially in men, HDL‐C levels between smokers and nonsmokers were not different in subjects with the B1B2 or B2B2 genotypes. However, smoking (20+ cigarettes/day) was associated with a marked reduction in HDL‐C in the B1B1 subjects. The B1B1/smoking interaction was not reflected in a difference in CETP activity. High triglycerides and elevated body mass index (BMI) lower HDL‐C. The B2B2 genotype was associated with the highest HDL‐C levels, and these levels were significantly lower in the hypertriglyceridemic subjects (≥ 50th percentile). The lowest HDL‐C levels were seen in hypertriglyceridemic subjects with the B1B1 genotype. Although BMI (≥ 50th vs < 50th percentile) did not affect HDL‐C in B2B2 subjects, a high BMI was associated with markedly lower HDL‐C in B1B1 subjects. Thus, HDL‐C levels in Turks may be modulated by an interaction between the CETP TaqIB polymorphism and smoking, as well as an interaction with hypertriglyceridemia and BMI.
Functional analysis of R75Q mutation in the gene coding for Connexin 26 identified in a family with nonsyndromic hearing loss
Authors: Piazza V , Beltramello M , Menniti M , Colao E , Malatesta P , Argento R , Chiarella G , Gallo LV , Catalano M , Perrotti N , Mammano F , Cassandro E
Published: July 2005

Mutations in the gene (GJB2) coding for Connexin 26 (Cx26) are responsible for genetic forms of sensorineural hearing loss. This article describes a family characterized by congenital profound hearing loss, inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion and associated to a R75Q substitution in Cx26. Cell transfection and fluorescence imaging, dye transfer experiments and dual patch clamp recording showed that the mutant completely prevents the formation of functional channels despite assembling into junctional plaques, in communication incompetent HeLa cells. The disease is not associated with palmar and plantar keratosis in any of the family members, suggesting that R75Q substitution is not sufficient for the development of the complete syndromic phenotype. The association of palmar and plantar keratosis with profound hearing loss may be dependent on genetic background, requiring a functional interaction between the mutated Cx26 and other epidermally expressed connexins.
Rare SP‐A alleles and the SP‐A1‐6A4 allele associate with risk for lung carcinoma
Authors: Seifart C , Lin H‐M , Seifart U , Plagens A , DiAngelo S , Von Wichert P , Floros J
Published: July 2005

Next to cigarette smoking, genetic factors may contribute to lung cancer risk. Pulmonary surfactant components may mediate response to inhaled carcinogenic substances and/or play a role in lung function and inflammation. We studied associations between surfactant protein (SP) genetic variants and risk in lung cancer subgroups. Samples (n = 308) were genotyped for SP‐A1, ‐A2, ‐B, and ‐D marker alleles. These included 99 patients with small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC, n = 31), or non‐SCLC (NSCLC, n = 68) consisting of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, n = 35), and adenocarcinoma (AC) (n = 23); controls (n = 99) matched by age, sex, and smoking status (clinical control) to SCLC and NSCLC; and 110 healthy individuals (population control). We found (a) no significant marker associations with SCLC, (b) rare SP‐A2 (1A9) and SP‐A1 (6A11) alleles associate with NSCLC risk when compared with population control, (c) the same alleles (1A9, 6A11) associate with risk for AC when compared with population (6A11) or clinical control (1A9), and (d) the SP‐A1‐6A4 allele (found in approximately 10% of the population) associates with SCC, when compared with population or clinical control. A correlation between SP‐A variants and lung cancer susceptibility appears to exist, indicating that SP‐A alleles may be useful markers of lung cancer risk.
Idiopathic ulcer of the small bowel containing numerous plasma cells: Case resembling mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma
Authors: KAKEGAWA SEIICH , KOJIMA MASARU , OHWADA SUSUMU , KAWATE SUSUMU , KAWASHIMA YOSHIYUKI , YAMADA TATSUYA , SASAKI ATSUSHI , OYAMA TETSUNARI , MORISHITA YASUO
Published: July 2005

Abstract  Idiopathic ulcer of the small bowel is a poorly recognized entity. Herein is reported a case of idiopathic ulcer of the jejunum containing numerous lymphoplasmacytoid infiltrates and mimicking mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. An 82‐year‐old Japanese woman presented with nausea and vomiting. Following diagnosis of submucosal tumor, partial jejunal resection was performed. Macroscopically the resected specimen contained multiple small shallow ulcers. Histologically the lesion was composed of numerous plasma cells mixed with lymphocytes and histiocytes. Immunohistological study revealed that the plasma cells contained polytypic intracytoplasmic immunoglobulins. The patient remained free of disease after 36 months. Marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma of MALT‐type arising from small intestine occasionally shows prominent plasma cell differentiation. The present case demonstrates that idiopathic ulcer of the small bowel should be added to the differential diagnosis of MALT‐type lymphoma of the small bowel.
Genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 in patients with hepatitis C virus‐associated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: MOCHIZUKI JUNKO , MURAKAMI SHIGETO , SANJO AKIRA , TAKAGI ICHIRO , AKIZUKI SETSUKO , OHNISHI AKIHIRO
Published: July 2005

Background: The carcinogenic process can be modulated by exposure to endogenous or environmental substance(s) acting as carcinogens or protocarcinogens. Polymorphic enzymes of cytochrome P450 (CYP) that play a role in detoxication/toxication of such substances via metabolization may account for the interpatient variability of clinical course in cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Many CYP genetic polymorphisms, which may change enzyme activity, are known to exist in Japanese. The aim of the present study was to compare the frequencies of CYP polymorphisms between hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐related HCC patients and healthy subjects.

Methods: Seven mutant alleles and related genotypes of CYP in 44 HCV‐positive HCC patients were chosen as follows: *1C heterozygous, *1C homozygous and *1F homozygous for CYP1A2, *4A homozygous for CYP2A6, *2A or *3 heterozygous, *2A or *3 homozygous and *2A and *3 heterozygous for CYP2C19, and *10/*5 homozygous for CYP2D6. These mutant alleles have been reported to change the CYP enzyme activity in Japanese. The frequencies of the mutant alleles and genotypes were then compared with those reported in healthy Japanese.

Results and conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference in genetic mutant alleles between the two groups, except for the genotype of CYP2A6*4A homozygous. The frequency of this genotype in the HCC patients (0.144) is significantly higher than that in healthy Japanese (0.034; P < 0.05; odds ratio 3.36). The clinical significance related to HCC is unknown. Further evaluation of CYP2A6*4A (deletion type) in HCV‐related HCC patients is required.

© 2005 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Diagnosis and genotyping of Helicobacter pylori by polymerase chain reaction of bacterial DNA from gastric juice
Authors: DATTA SIMANTI , CHATTOPADHYAY SANTANU , CHOWDHURY ABHIJIT , SANTRA AMAL , SAHA DHIRA RANI , RAMAMURTHY T , BHATTACHARYA SUJIT KUMAR , BERG DOUGLAS E , NAIR G BALAKRISH , MUKHOPADHYAY ASISH KUMAR
Published: July 2005

Background: Efficient and accurate detection of Helicobacter pylori infection as well as identification of virulence‐associated alleles are important for the treatment of gastroduodenal diseases caused by this gastric pathogen. The present study was performed to test the efficiency of gastric juice polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for the rapid detection of H. pylori infection and to determine the bacterial genotypes without the need for culture, which is often not feasible especially in developing countries.

Methods: DNA was extracted from gastric juice samples collected from 45 subjects and was used to amplify urease B gene (ureB) for H. pylori. Results obtained from this method were further confirmed by rapid urease test (RUT), histology and culture. Genotypes of the infected strains predicted from gastric juice PCR were compared to the genotype data obtained from the isolated strains.

Results: Among 45 cases, 32 were positive by RUT, 37 by histological examination, 25 by gastric juice PCR method, while culture yielded positive results for 19 samples. Except for one case, all the 19 culture‐positive strains gave the same genotype with the gastric juice PCR result. It was found that the gastric juice PCR is more efficient for detection of multiple‐strain infection as compared to genotype data obtained from strains isolated as pooled culture.

Conclusions: This moderately sensitive technique could be employed with good efficiency, particularly in cases where it is difficult to obtain biopsy. Moreover, with this method bacterial genotype could be obtained.
Significance of RCAS1 antigen in hepatocellular, cholangiocellular and pancreatic carcinomas
Authors: ENJOJI MUNECHIKA , NAKASHIMA MANABU , YAMAGUCHI KOJI , KOTOH KAZUHIRO , NAKAMUTA MAKOTO
Published: July 2005

Since receptor‐binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells (RCAS1) was first reported as a tumor‐associated antigen of gynecologic cancer, its function and practical value as a tumor marker have been investigated in various types of carcinomas. Basic research has indicated that RCAS1 expression in cancer cells contributes to the evasion from immune surveillance and progression of carcinomas. The clinical significance of RCAS1 expression in hepatobiliary and pancreatic carcinomas has also been investigated. In this review, we summarize the clinical application of RCAS1 antigen in hepatic and pancreaticobiliary diseases. We present new data and review current knowledge about the potential of RCAS1 as a tumor marker and the relationship between RCAS1 expression and clinicopathologic parameters. We found that the clinical function of RCAS1 appeared to differ according to the type of carcinoma. In hepatocellular carcinoma, the clinical significance of histological RCAS1 expression was controversial and that of serum RCAS1 levels showed little clinical value. In pancreaticobiliary cancers, high RCAS1 expression in tissue samples was an unfavorable independent prognostic factor. Serum RCAS1 was a superior tumor marker reflecting the disease activity in biliary carcinoma. In pancreatic cancer, serum RCAS1 levels were less useful than in biliary carcinoma but may be available for genetically CA19‐9‐negative patients and for CA19‐9‐non‐producing cancer. This review also offers suggestions for future studies.
Influence of load of hepatitis A virus on disease severity and its relationship with clinical manifestations in patients with hepatitis A
Authors: SAINOKAMI SHIGEHIKO , ABE KOICHI , ISHIKAWA KAZUYOSHI , SUZUKI KAZUYUKI
Published: July 2005

Background and Aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of viral load on disease severity and analyze the possible relationship of the load of hepatitis A virus (HAV) with disease severity and laboratory findings.

Methods: Fifty‐eight patients diagnosed with acute hepatitis A were used in the current study, of whom 12 patients progressed to severe acute hepatitis (s‐AH) defined on the basis of a prothrombin time (PT) of <40% and 46 patients were diagnosed as having mild acute hepatitis (m‐AH). The load of HAV was measured with real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Peak viral load showed a significant correlation with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (r = 0.363, P = 0.0048) and PT levels (r = −0.330, P = 0.0110). In terms of disease severity, there was a significant  correlation  with  ALT  (r = 0.462,  P = 0.0012)  and  PT  levels  (r = 0.400,  P = 0.0059)  in  the m‐AH group, but not in the s‐AH group. A significant positive correlation of peak viral load with the C‐reactive protein level (r = 0.270, P = 0.0400) and a significant negative correlation of peak viral load with the platelet count (r = −0.313, P = 0.0015) was also found.

Conclusions: The load of HAV was closely correlated with liver damage and disease severity in m‐AH, but not in s‐AH. The load of HAV was also closely associated with the increase in C‐reactive protein level and enhancement of thrombocytopenia.
Late complication in patients undergoing pancreatic resection with intraoperative radiation therapy: Gastrointestinal bleeding with occlusion of the portal system
Authors: SHIMIZU YASUHIRO , YASUI KENZO , FUWA NOBUKAZU , ARAI YASUAKI , YAMAO KENJI
Published: July 2005

Background:  There are few reports of late complications in patients who have undergone pancreatic resection with intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), because carcinoma of the pancreas (PCa) and the bile duct (BCa) have a poor prognosis. The purpose of the present paper was to review gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding occurring with occlusion of the portal system (PVs) as a complication of IORT in patients surviving long term without recurrence.

Patients:  From 1990 to 1999, 45 patients underwent surgical resection of the pancreas with IORT. Eleven of these patients survived >3 years without recurrence, and occlusion of PVs was recognized in five patients at follow‐up examination. Three of these five patients received repeated blood transfusions for GI bleeding.

Results:  One patient had BCa and two had PCa, and pancreatoduodenectomy was carried out. The delivered radiation doses of IORT were 30 Gy (two patients) and 35 Gy (one patient). The postoperative periods to initial GI bleeding were 36, 26 and 9 months, respectively. In all cases, angiography revealed occlusion of PVs and the collateral circulation. The bleeding points were esophageal varix (case 1), remnant stomach varix (case 2) and a jejunal ulcer (case 3), and blood transfusions were carried out totaling 44, 60 and 16 units, respectively. The GI bleeding disappeared spontaneously in case 1, developed sporadically in case 2 and was stopped by metallic stent insertion in PVs in case 3.

Conclusion:  During long‐term follow up after pancreatectomy with IORT, it is necessary to monitor patients for GI bleeding. A clinical trial on optimum doses, long‐term safety and benefit of IORT is necessary.