bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver Pathology in Cytomegalovirus Infection Associated with Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Marinelli RMA , Monache M Delle , Gerardi R , Berardo C , Santolamazza M , Bruno G , Ricci G L
Published: January 2017

A retrospective study was carried out in 56 patients to establish the association of cytomegalovirus (CMV) with active or inactive hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection as a possible risk factor in the development of severe liver disease. Patients with positive CMV serology and active or inactive HBV infection had elevated alanine aminotransferase activity and had a relatively high incidence of more severe lesions (chronic hepatitis and active cirrhosis), In the absence of CMV, only one case of cirrhosis was identified compared with seven cases of hepatic fibrosis. By analogy with hepatitis C virus, CMV may bring about activation of the host inflammatory response against hepatocytes following HBV infection, resulting in the development of severe hepatitic disease.
Circadian Variation in the Onset of Acute Myocardial Infarction: Lack of an Effect due to Age and Sex
Authors: Gallerani M , Manfredini R , Ricci L , Goldoni C , Cocurullo A , Pareschi P L
Published: January 2017

The circadian patterns in the onset of symptoms of acute myocardial infarction were assessed in a prospective study involving 450 patients. Analysis of the data in the 424 patients in whom the time of onset was known did not show any statistically significant circadian rhythms, either for the group as a whole or for subgroups divided according to sex, age group (< 60, 60 − 69, 70 − 79 and ≥ 80 years old), or the presence or absence of diabetes mellitus. The frequency of onset of symptoms was highest in the morning (06.01 − 12.00 h) for the group as a whole (29.2%). Patients aged < 70 and ≥ 80 years old showed a peak in the morning, whereas patients aged 70 − 79 years old showed a peak in the afternoon (12.01 − 18.00 h).
Use of Prostaglandin E1 to Treat Peri-Anaesthetic Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Mitral Valve Disease
Authors: Mikawa K , Maekawa N , Goto R , Yaku H , Nishina K , Obara H
Published: January 2017

Severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) can be a critical problem during and after cardiac surgery, since it increases right ventricular afterload resulting in decreased cardiac output. A case of pulmonary hypertension associated with mitral valve disease and resistant to glyceryl trinitrate therapy during surgery is reported. The case was treated successfully with prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), indicating that PGE1 can be used peri-operatively in a patient with refractory PH resistant to glyceryl trinitrate treatment.
Effects of an Oil Contrast Medium on Fertilization in the Oviduct in Rabbits
Authors: Kanayama K , Osada H , Nariai K , Endo T , Sakuma Y
Published: January 2017

The influence of an oil contrast medium on fertilization in rabbit oviducts was investigated. The oil contrast medium (Lipiodol-UF) was injected into the catheterized oviducts of anaesthetized animals, and they were mated 1, 3, 5 or 7 days later. When mating took place 1 day after injection, none of the ova that were subsequently recovered were fertilized; the fertilization rates when mating occurred 3, 5 or 7 days after injection of the medium were 78.9, 90 and 100%. Fertilization within the oviduct was, thus, impaired by the injection of oil contrast medium, but appeared to be fully recovered 7 days later.
Friedreich's Ataxia in the Elderly
Authors: Abyad A , Kligman E
Published: January 2017

Friedreich's ataxia is one of the best defined and most common forms of hereditary ataxia of unknown aetiology. It is transmitted in an autosomal recessive manner, appearing sporadically, usually in childhood or adolescence. The case of an elderly patient with a possible diagnosis of late-onset Friedreich's ataxia is reported; this is thought to be the only such case in the literature. The 91-year-old Anglo female presented with ataxia that had been progressive over the last 5 years. Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the head revealed mild peripheral cerebellar atrophy and moderate cerebral atrophy. The patient's parents were unaffected but two of her six siblings had had Friedreich's ataxia starting in childhood, and four of her grandfather's siblings had had an undiagnosed illness that left them in wheelchairs early in life. Friedreich's ataxia was diagnosed in view of the strong family history and non-revealing magnetic resonance imaging of the brain.
Efficacy of an Intravenous Low-Molecular-Weight Dermatan Sulphate (Desmin) in Patients with Acute Proximal Deep Venous Thrombosis and Silent Pulmonary Embolism. A Pilot Study
Authors: Venosi S , Zamboni V , Irace L , Stumpo R , Massa R , Palazzini E , Valentini F Benedetti
Published: January 2017

Ten patients affected by proximal deep venous thrombosis were treated in an open study with a low-molecular-weight dermatan sulphate (Desmin), administered at doses of 400 mg (intravenous bolus) followed by 1200 mg/day infused intravenously for 10 days, without activated partial thromboplastin adjustment. The evolution of the deep vein thrombosis and the presence of silent pulmonary embolism were evaluated by phleboscintigraphy and lung scan, performed before treatment and after 10 days of treatment, and by repeated echocolour-Doppler examination (every 2 days during treatment). The evolution of deep vein thrombosis showed a considerable improvement; similarly, lung scan showed a substantial reperfusion of lung, with regression of perfusional deficit. Repeated echocolour-Doppler examination of the deep venous system during treatment did not document further thrombus extension in any patient. Tolerance and safety were excellent. No adverse effects were observed. These preliminary results indicate that the tested dose of Desmin can be effective in treating deep vein thrombosis and silent pulmonary embolism.
Role of Transforming Growth Factor-β and -β in ddY Mous Nephropathy
Authors: Ye XF , Yorioka N , Oda H , Taniguchi Y , Yamakido M
Published: January 2017

We investigated the glomerular distribution of transforming growth factor −β (TGF −β1, and TGF −β2) protein and the expression of its mRNA, and related factors, in ddY mice, aged 5 — 60 weeks, before and after the onset of nephropathy. TGF −β1 protein expression was observed from the age of 20 weeks onwards, peaking at 50 weeks, and then declining. Expression of TGF −β2 protein gradually increased from 5 to 60 weeks. TGF −β1 and TGF −β2 mRNA were both detected from 5 to 60 weeks. The mesangial matrix expansion index (MMEI) was significantly higher in mice with nephropathy than in those without nephropathy, as was the expression of TGF −β1 and TGF −β2 proteins ( P < 0.05). TGF −β2 was significantly positively correlated with the MMEI ( P < 0.05). Infiltration of CD68-positive monocytes/macrophages gradually increased until 60 weeks, and was significantly correlated with the expression of TGF −β1 ( P < 0.05) and TGF −β2 ( P < 0.01). These findings indicate that TGF −β1 and TGF −β2 were overexpressed in ddY mice with overt nephropathy compared with pre-nephropathic mice. TGF −β2 may be an important mediator of mesangial matrix expansion in ddY mouse nephropathy.
Efficacy of a Combined Diloxanide Furoate—Metronidazole Preparation in the Treatment of Amoebiasis and Giardiasis
Authors: Qureshi H , Ali A , Baqai R , Ahmed W
Published: January 2017

A combined formulation of diloxanide furoate and metronidazole was used to treat amoebiasis and giardiasis (cysts and vegetative forms) in 54 patients. Of these, 34 patients had amoebiasis, 19 had giardiasis and one had mixed infection. Each patient took one tablet (containing 500 mg diloxanide furoate and 400 mg metronidazole), three times daily for 5 days, and the response to therapy was checked by clinical examination and by examination of fresh stools on days 3, 5 and 10. Abdominal pain was completely relieved in 91% and 84% of patients with amoebiasis and giardiasis, respectively, while parasitic clearance was 100% in both groups. Tolerance to the drug was adequate.
Cleavage of Unfertilized Eggs after Repeated Administration of Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin to Hamsters
Authors: Kanayama K , Osada H , Endo T
Published: January 2017

The proportions of unfertilized eggs in the oviducts, showing abnormal cleavage, were examined in hamsters given single or repeated doses of 30 IU human gonadotrophic hormone for the induction of ovulation. In control animals ( n = 7), 1.7% of the total ovulated eggs were morphologically abnormal unfertilized eggs showing cleavage. The proportions of unfertilized eggs that were abnormal in the groups of seven hamsters treated with one, two or three doses of the gonadotrophin were 20.4%, 19.4%, and 30.4%, respectively. The proportion of unfertilized eggs showing abnormal cleavage thus appeared to increase with repeated administrations of gonadotrophin.
Zur histochemischen Charakterisierung saurer Glukosaminoglykane im Spontanamyloid
Authors: Hilgenfeld M. , Jakob W.
Published: January 2017

It was possible with the aid of suitable histochemical methods to demonstrate carboxyl and sulfate groups in amyloid deposits of animal tissues and ascribe them to various acid glycosaminoglycans and neuraminic acid. The principal glycosaminoglycan components in amyloid were hyaluronidase-resistant sulfated glycosaminoglycans. Their quantity varied within the various amyloid deposits and was apparently dependent on the age of amyloid depositions. Since special staining methods for demonstration of amyloid depend on the presence of acid radicals, the findings of this investigation explain the difficulties occasionally encountered with the histochemical demonstration of amyloid.
The Vitamin-E-Deficiency Syndrome in Pigs; III. Light- and Electron-Microscopic Studies on Myocardial Vascular Injury
Authors: Nafstad Inger
Published: January 2017

Vascular changes in the myocardium of vitamin-E-deficient pigs were studied by light and electron microscopy. The main changes shown by light microscopy were mural degeneration and multiple microthrombi in small vessels. The thrombotic material gave staining characteristics of platelets and fibrin. With electron microscopy, the main changes were endothelial damage, extravasation of platelets and erythrocytes, and the formation of thrombi composed of platelets and fibrin.

The first vascular change occurred in the endothelium; this was succeeded by the formation of thrombi.
Ulcerative Glossitis and Stomatitis Associated with Exudative Epidermitis in Suckling Swine
Authors: Andrews J. J.
Published: January 2017

Thirty piglets 1 to 4 weeks old from five herds had epidermal, foot, conjunctival and renal lesions typical of exudative epidermitis. Ten piglets had a large central ulceration of the dorsum of the tongue. Three piglets had multiple erosions of the hard palate and one had mucoid degeneration of the urinary bladder epithelium and a thick viscous material in the renal pelvis, ureters and urinary bladder.
Bad Habits in Baghdad
Authors: Jayasekera Rohan
Published: January 2017

THE MANIFEST UNFAIRNESS OF MEDIA CONTROLS IN IRAQ AND THE FAILURE OF US-SPONSORED IRAQI MEDIA TO WIN A RATINGS WAR AGAINST THEIR ARAB RIVALS SET A BAD PRECEDENT FOR THE FUTURE
Under the volcano
Authors: Garner Mandy
Published: January 2017

The government tries to keep the lid on rumbles of discontent with its authoritarian rule
The hydra grows another head
Authors: Darwish Adel
Published: January 2017

Fundamentalist Arab governments in the Gulf are buying out journalists and writers in Egypt
Urbicides, massacres, common graves
Authors: Goytisolo Juan
Published: January 2017

As Chechnya becomes the platform on which the Kremlin's political power struggle is being fought out, peace hangs in the balance. There is no certainty that the Chechen leadership will play along with one more broken promise from Moscow. A distinguished Spanish journalist, who travelled through the region in June describes scenes of devastation and remembers the long history of Chechen-Russian wars
Investors' Response to the Performance of Professional Fund Managers: Evidence from the Australian Wholesale Funds Market
Authors: Sawicki Julia
Published: January 2017

This study investigates the influence of past performance on investors' choice of professionally managed investment fund and provides evidence of a link between recent performance and the movement of assets-under-management. The sensitivity of funds flow to recent performance is estimated using data for 124 Australian wholesale funds during the 1980-to-1995 period. The results provide unequivocal evidence of the influence of prior period performance (annual and three-year average) on the movement of assets-under-management. Tests are conducted using gross return and three methods of risk adjustment with index, group average, CAPM as benchmarks. The results provide little evidence of differences in investor response to various measures of performance.
Initial and Long-Run Performance of Mining IPOs in Australia
Authors: How Janice C.Y.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the initial and long-run performance of 130 Australian mining IPOs issued from 1979 to 1990. The results show an average underpricing of 107.18%, significantly higher than that previously documented for industrial firms. The time lapse between prospectus registration and listing, and the state of the market when the IPO is issued are the main explanatory variables for the observed underpricing. Contrary to the existing evidence, mining IPOs in Australia, on average, do not appear to significantly underperform the market in the long-run. The results show that delay in listing is significantly related to the long-run performance, with some evidence of a curvilinear relationship between underpricing and the one-year and two-year share returns.
Knowledge and Perception of Consumption of Iodized Salt Among Food Handlers in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Haji Yusuf , Abdurahmen Junayde , Paulos Wondimagegn
Published: January 2017

Background:

Iodine deficiency is the world’s single most important cause of preventable mental retardation. In Ethiopia, the knowledge and perception of food handlers toward the iodized salt consumption (ISC) was very low.

Objective:

To assess knowledge and perception of food handlers toward consumption of iodized salt in Wolaita Sodo town and Sodo Zuria woreda, 2014.

Methods:

The community-based cross-sectional study design was done from May 10 to May 30, 2014 in Sodo town and Sodo Zuria woreda (district), Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia. Systematic sampling techniques were used to identify study participants. Data entered into the software Epi Info version 3.5.3 and analyzed using the software SPSS version 16. To assess an association, odds ratio was used at 95% confidence interval, whereas confounding was controlled by employing multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

Lower knowledge and perception on iodine deficiency was observed. About 239 (44.7%) of the respondents had good knowledge and 228 (42.6%) had positive attitude toward consumption of iodized salt. Most (346, 64.7%) of the participants had heard about goiter, whereas only 170 (31.8%) of them associated it with iodine deficiency. About 46.4% of respondents heard about iodized salt. Respondents’ age, education, family income, place of residence, and occupation had significant association with good knowledge and positive attitude toward consumption of iodized salt.

Conclusion:

The study revealed the existence of knowledge and perception gap in iodine deficiency disorder and ISC. Household income, education of respondents, and place of residence were determinant factors for poor knowledge and perception of iodized salt. Therefore, efforts to scale-up the knowledge and perception toward ISC should focus on households with low income, educational level, and rural residence.
Effects of Diesel Exhaust Particle Extracts on TH1 and TH2 Immune Responses in Mice
Authors: Yoshino S. , Hayashp H. , Taneda S. , Takano H. , Sagai M. , Mori Y.
Published: January 2017

The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of extracts of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) on Th1 and Th2 immune responses. In order to separate compounds from DEP different in hydrophobicity, a single DEP sample was consecutively extracted with hexane (HEX-DEP), benzene (BEN-DEP), dichloromethane (DIC-DEP), methanol (MET-DEP), and 1M ammonia (AMM-DEP). The last unextracted residue (UNE-DEP) was also used to test its effect on immune responses. To immunize mice, hen egg lysozyme (HEL) was injected i.p. (day 0). Varying doses of DEP, each DEP extract, and UNE-DEP were intranasally administered every 2 days from days 0 to 18. Anti-HEL IgG2a antibodies in sera and IFN-g secreted from spleen cells were measured as an indicator of Th1 immune responses, while anti-HEL IgG1 antibodies and IL-4 as that of Th2 responses. The results showed that treatment with DEP and DIC-DEP increased both Th1 and Th2 responses to HEL. UNE-DEP facilitated Th1 but not Th2 responses, while MET- and AMM-DEP administration was followed by enhancement of Th2 but not Th1 responses. Neither HEX- nor BEN-DEP modulated Th1 as well as Th2 responses. These results suggest that DEP contain various compounds different in hydrophobicity which may affect both Th1 and Th2, Th1 but not Th2, and Th2 but not Th1 immune responses.
Oral Desensitisation in Cow Milk Allergy: Immunological Findings
Authors: Patriarca G. , Buonomo A. , Roncallo C. , Del Ninno M. , Pollastrini E. , Milani A. , De Pasquale T. , Gasbarrini G. , Schiavino D. , Nucera E.
Published: January 2017

In the literature there are several reports dealing with the possibility of a desensitising treatment in food allergy, but there are very few studies concerning the immunological mechanisms of or al desensitisation. We studied the immunological modifications in four children who underwent oral desensitisation with cow milk. Four children with cow milk allergy underwent oral desensitisation according to a standardized protocol. Total IgE, eosinophilic cationic protein in serum, and specific IgE and IgG4 to α-lactalbumin, to β-lactoglobulin and to casein were determined at the beginning of the treatment and after 6, 12 and 18 months in the 4 children treated. All the 4 treated patients successfully completed the treatment. Specific IgE to casein showed a significant reduction (p<0.01), while specific IgG4 to α-lactalbumin (p<0.02), to β-lactoglobulin (p<0.01) and to casein (p<0.01) showed a significant increase. Total IgE, eosinophilic cationic protein, and specific IgE to a-lactalbumin and to β-Iactoglobulin did not show any significant modification. Control patients did not show any immunological modification and still had a positive double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge.

These results make us think that oral desensitisation in food allergy occurs with the same mechanisms of traditional desensitising treatments for respiratory and insect sting allergies.
Interleukin-4 and Interferon-Gamma Production during HIV-1 Infection and Changes Induced by Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Vecchiet J. , Dalessandro M. , Travasi F. , Falasca K. , Di Iorio A. , Schiavone C. , Zingariello P. , Di Ilio E. , Pizzigallo E. , Paganelli R.
Published: January 2017

Several lines of evidence indicate that a switch of the cytokine pattern from a predominant type 1 (antiviral and cell mediated response) to type 2 (polyclonal humoral immune response) occurs during the course of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) infection, and represents a key event in the progression of immunodeficiency and dysregulated immune activation. We proposed to further investigate this immunological aspect of HIV-1 disease, in naive and in patients treated with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). The prototypic cytokines chosen were Interleukin (IL)-4 and Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), whose in vitro production was determined in mononuclear cell cultures stimulated with different T lymphocyte mitogenic agents (anti-CD3, Phytohaemoagglutin-P -PHA-, E. coli B04/035 Lipopolysaccharide -LPS-).

We classified all the patients on the basis of the number of CD4+ lymphocytes and we found a progressive, even if not significant decrease in the baseline production of IFN-γ with the progression of the immunodeficiency. The mean value of baseline IFN-γ in the group of patients with CD4+>500 cells/μL was 7.79+3.1 pg/mL while in the group with CD4+<200 cells/μL it was 4.66±2.22. We didn't find significant differences in the baseline production of IL-4 in these groups and in IFN-γ and IL-4 production in LPS-stimulated cultures.

We also re-assessed 12 patients after one year's follow-up. They presented a significant increase in IFN-γ production compared to the first assessment in the LPS-stimulated cultures (baseline IFN-γ 2.87+1.17 pg/mL, after 12 months 19.15±5.19 pg/mL; p= 0.03). In the 12 patients in follow-up IL-4 production showed a decreased in PHA-stimulated cultures with mean values of 16.65±14.32 pg/mL at baseline and 6.54±6.54 pg/mL after follow-up. These results highlight the immunorestoring effects of HAART.

IL-4 production was lower in the treated subjects compared to the naive ones in PHA-stimulated cultures (mean values: IL-4=13.42 ±11.08 pg/mL in the naive patients and 9.75 ±65 pg/mL in the treated patients). The IFN-γ values in anti-CD3 stimulated cultures were also higher in the treated patients, but this increase was not significant.
Immune System Alterations in Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Mazzoccoli G. , Grilli M. , Carughi S. , Puzzolante F. , De Cata A. , La Viola M. , Giuliani A. , Urbano N. , Tarquini R. , Perfetto F.
Published: January 2017

The immune system plays an important role in the defense against neoplastic disease and immune responses show temporal changes related to circadian variations of antibodies, total lymphocytes in the peripheral blood and cell mediated immune responses. In this study we evaluate, lymphocyte subpopulations and interleukin-2 (IL-2) serum levels in peripheral blood samples collected at four-hour intervals for 24-hours starting at 06.00h from ten healthy subjects aged 65–79 years (mean age ± S.E. 67.28 ±3.11) and from ten subjects suffering from untreated non small cell lung cancer aged 65–78 years (mean age ± S.E. 68.57 ± 1.81). Areas under the curve, mean diurnal levels (mean of 06.00–10.00–14.00 h) and mean nocturnal levels (mean of 18.00–22.00–02.00 h) were calculated, and the presence of circadian rhythmicity was evaluate. When we compared AUC values there was a decrease in CD8bright (T suppressor subset) and an increase in CD16 (natural killer cells) and of IL-2 serum levels in cancer patients. When we compared mean diurnal levels, CD8 (T suppressor/cytotoxic subset) and CD8bright levels were lower, and CD16 levels were higher in cancer patients. When we compared mean nocturnal levels, CD16 and CD25 (T and B activated lymphocytes with expression of the a chain of IL-2 receptor) levels were higher, while CD8, CD8bright, CD20 (total B-cells), TcRd1 (epitope of the constant domain of d chain of T-cell receptor 1) and dTcS1 (epitope of the variable domain of d chain of T-cell receptor1) levels were lower in cancer patients. A clear circadian rhythm was validated for the time-qualified changes in CD4, CD20, HLA-DR with acrophase at night, and CD8, CD8bright, CD8dim, CD16, TcRd1 and dTcS1 with acrophase in the morning in the control group. A clear circadian rhythm was validated for the time-qualified changes in CD4 with acrophase at night, in the group of cancer patients. Results obtained in our study show that lung cancer is associated with anomalies of proportion and circadian variations of lymphocyte subsets that must be considered when adoptive immunotherapy has to be planned.
DMSO Modifies Structural and Functional Properties of RPMI-8402 Cells by Promoting Programmed Cell Death
Authors: Trubiani O. , Salvolini E. , Staffolani R. , Di Primio R. , Mazzanti L.
Published: January 2017

Apoptosis in lymphoid cells can be induced in different ways depending on cell type and acquired signal. Biochemical modifications occur at an early phase of cell death while at late times the typical morphological features of apoptosis can be visualized. The aim of this study is to verify by multiparametric analyses the plasma membrane fluidity, the intracellular Ca2+ concentration and the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity during cell death progression induced by DMSO treatment. The RPMI-8402 human pre-T lymphoblastoid cell line was induced to cell death by DMSO. Analyses rescued at early times of treatment prove a substantial modification of plasma membrane fluidity associated with an increase of intracellular Ca2+. Moreover, these modifications are associated with an up regulation of NOS activity. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that programmed cell death can be induced by up regulation of the intracellular Ca2+ associated with an increase of cell membrane fluidity. The apoptotic mechanisms seem to involve not only membrane damage and increased intracellular calcium levels but also production of nitric oxide.
Subclinical Neurophysiological Effects of Manganese in Welding Workers
Authors: He Sc. , Niu Q.
Published: January 2017

High-level occupational manganese (Mn) exposure has been reported to induce irreversible brain alterations determining a Parkinson-like disease. This study aimed to assess subclinical neurophysiological alterations in welding workers. They were employed in a machine building factory with an average Mn exposure <200 mg/m3. Sixty-eight welding workers (mean age: 34 years; mean Mn exposure duration: 16 years) and 42 flour factory workers (control group) with similar age and smoking habit were recruited. Autonomic nervous function test battery (ANSFT), composed of Valsalva maneuvre-induced heart rate variation (HR-V), heart rate variation following deep breathing (HR-DB) and heart rate variation following immediate standing up (HR-IS) was assessed. Electroencephalogram (EEG), brain electricity activity mapping (BEAM) were also performed. HR-V, HR-DB and HR-IS were significantly lower in Mn- exposed subjects showing altered autonomic nervous system activity, parasympathetic-sympathetic imbalance and, consequently, altered cardiovascular regulation and reactivity. The EEG of the Mn-exposed workers evidenced β-wave rhythms significantly reduced, Θ-waves markedly increased and abnormal wave activities of either localized or diffusive type. In the same workers, BEAM revealed higher Θ, δ and β power values in the F7 area, lower d power values in the FP1, FP2 and C4 areas as well as dissymmetry in the central area, parietal region and occipital region. This study suggests that Mn impairs neuron activity within central nervous system. In this context, brainstem parasympathetic and sympathetic centers, receiving axon projections from cortical and diencephalic areas, may reflect Mn effects on upper pathways. However, direct actions of Mn on these centers cannot be excluded.
Study on Oels for Enzyme-Containing Detergent in China
Authors: Zhang X.D. , Liang Y.X. , Lee C.S. , Jin T.Y.
Published: January 2017

This study is aimed at setting occupational exposure levels for total detergent dust and enzymes in detergent industries. The study population consisted of 795 workers from four enzyme-containing detergent manufacturing plants (A1, A2, B1 and B2), and 156 control workers from an electronic assembly factory. Work environment monitoring was conducted using high volume of air sampler for measuring the concentration of total dust (mg/m3), and analyzing the level of enzyme (ng/m3) by ELISA method. A standard questionnaires, pulmonary function test, and skin prick test are used to assess health effects. The levels of detergent total dust varied from 0.2 mg/m3 to 12.54mg/m3. For enzyme levels, in A1, B1 and B2, the concentration ranged from non-detectable to 9.92ng/m3 and in A2, the concentration was analyzed by enzyme activity methods and was expressed as Gu/m3(1 Gu/m3=16 ng/m3). The concentration is between 0.16–31.36ng/m3. Non-specific irritation rates in exposed workers were significant higher than that in controls. Based on the data collected from A1, B1 and control plants, 95% benchmark dose lower bound were calculated as 1.17 mg/m3. The difference of pulmonary function between exposed workers and controls is not significant. The results of SPT showed that neither Savinase- nor Alcalase-induced sensitization was found in controls. The prevalence rates of sensitization for Savinase and Alcalase were ranged between 3.2% and 31% in all enzyme-containing detergent manufacturers investigated. No case of occupational asthma was observed. For total dust, 1 mg/m3 is suggested as permissible concentration-time weighted average (PC-TWA), and 2 mg/m3 as permissible concentration-short term exposure limit (PC-STEL). For the enzyme Subtilisins, 15 ng/m3 is suggested as PC-TWA, and 30 ng/m3 as PC-STEL.
Study of Immune Alterations in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with Different Etiologies
Authors: Racciatti D. , Dalessandro M. , Delle Donne L. , Falasca K. , Zingariello P. , Paganelli R. , Pizzigallo E. , Vecchiet J.
Published: January 2017

The Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is characterized by symptoms lasting for at least six months and accompanied by disabling fatigue. The etiology of CFS is still unclear. At the National Center for CFS Study of the Infectious Diseases Department of Chieti University some immune investigations were performed with the purpose of detecting markers of the disease. CD4+, CD8+, NK CD56+ and B CD19+ lymphocytes were studied in 92 male and 47 female patients and in 36 control subjects. CFS patients were divided in three groups with a post-infectious onset (PI-CFS), a non post-infectious onset (NPI-CFS) and a non post-infectious onset with associated infections (NPT-CFS + AI). Both CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes were reduced in the CFS patients. However, the CD+/CD8+ ratio was increased in the CFS patients without differences between males and females. CD56+ cells of CFS patients were also reduced. In particular, blood CD56+ cell counts were significantly higher in PI-CFS patients than in NPI-CFS subjects. These data confirm our preliminary results suggesting a key-role of a dysfunction of the immune system as precipitating and/or perpetuating factor of the syndrome.
Cannabinoid Receptors and Their Relationships with Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Gambi F. , De Berardis D. , Sepede G. , Quartesan R. , Calcagni E. , Salerno R.M. , Conti C.M.V. , Ferro F.M.
Published: January 2017

Cannabinoids are the costituents of the marijuana plants. The central effects of exogenous cannabinoids are implicated in enhancing mood, altering emotional states, and interfering in the formation of short-term memory. Cannabinoid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors with seven transmembrane domains that are expressed on the cell surface with their binding domain exposed to the extracellular space. To date, two cannabinoid receptors have been cloned, CB1 and CB2. Recent evidence suggests that a third ‘CB3’ receptor may be cloned in the near future. The endocannabinoids may represent the first members of a new classes of neuromodulators, that are not stored in cell vesicles, but rather synthesised by the cell on demand. The endogenous cannabinoid system could play a central role in several neuropsychiatric disorders and is also involved in other conditions such as pain, spasticity and neuroprotection. Implication of cannabinoid system in the pathogenesis and development of schizophrenia is also discussed.
Mapk Activation Via 5-Hydroxytryptamine 1A Receptor is Involved in the Neuroprotective Effects of Xaliproden
Authors: Appert-Collin A. , Duong F.H.T. , Degrace P. Passilly , Warter J.-M. , Poindron P. , Gies J.-P.
Published: January 2017

Motoneurons require neurotrophic factors for their survival and their differentiation. Xaliproden (SR57746A) is a synthetic compound that exhibits in vivo and in vitro neurotrophic effects in several experimental studies. Here we demonstrate that neuroprotective effects of Xaliproden on motoneuron cultures are mediated by the activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase pathway. It is inhibited by PD98059, a selective and irreversible inhibitor of MEK1. The activation of this pathway seems to involve two different proteins, the protein kinase C and the Ras. Indeed, we show that Xaliproden is able to activate the MAP kinases ERK1/2 and PKC in motoneurons. In addition, the use of a 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor antagonist, Pindobind and pertussis toxin, inhibits the effect of Xaliproden on motoneuron survival, suggesting the involvement of this G-protein coupled receptor. Morever, 8-OH-DPAT, an agonist of 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor, increases the survival of mouse motoneurons but not by the same extent as BDNF or xaliproden. Since 8-OH-DPAT does not act synergistically with Xaliproden, it is likely that their neuroprotective properties involve a similar pathway. Taken together, these results indicate that neuroprotective effects of Xaliproden on mouse motoneurons are dependent on the mitogen-activated protein kinase activation via 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor.
Differential Downstream Effects of Cd40 Ligation Mediated by Membrane or Soluble CD40L and Agonistic Ab: A Study on Purified Human B Cells
Authors: Cognasse F. , Chavarin P. , Acquart S. , Sabido O. , Beniguel L. , Genin C. , Richard Y. , Garraud O.
Published: January 2017

With the addition of various cytokines, the CD40-CD40 ligand (CD40L) system can act as a T-helper cell surrogate to permit B lymphocytes to produce large amounts of polyclonal Ig. In the present study, we tested six CD40-CD40L stimulation models: (i, ii) soluble agonistic 89 and G28.5 mAbs; (iii, iv) ‘89’ and ‘G28.5’ bound via their Fc fragments on CDw32-transfected mouse fibroblasts; (v) purified, soluble, trimeric human CD40L molecules (sCD40L); and (vi) human CD40L expressed by a CD40L-transfected mouse fibroblastic cell line (LCD40L). Target B cells consisted of purified blood and tonsillar CD19+ lymphocytes cultured in the presence of CD40 stimuli and IL-2 and IL-10, added at the onset of each B cell culture. A) There was differential expression of CD69, CD80 and CD86 exposure to sCD40L and LCD40L was ensued by the strongest % MFI changes over control. B) In blood B cells, mAbs and sCD40L induced IgA, IgM and IgG production almost equally well; LCD40L proved less efficient. In contrast, in tonsil B cells, LCD40L induced significantly more IgA, IgG 1, IgG3and IgM production than other signals. Using certain CD40/CD40L stimuli to model in vitro Ig production, a system used regularly in many laboratories, may affect the interpretation based on the cell type and on the CD40/CD40L system used.
Proton Pump Inhibitor Co-Therapy Normalizes the Increased Cell Turnover of the Gastric Mucosa Both in Nsaid and Selective Cox-2 Users
Authors: Hritz I. , Herszenyi L. , Molnár B. , Tulassay Z. , Prónai L.
Published: January 2017

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) co-therapy is considered the best strategy in preventing gastrointestinal complications during non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) treatment, but there is limited information available on its effect on gastric mucosal cell kinetics. To evaluate the effect of PPI co-therapy on gastric mucosa we investigated epithelial cell proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) and p53 expression in patients on chronic non-selective NSAID or cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitor (COX-2) treatment. Gastric biopsies of the antrum were taken from 10-10 patients on chronic NSAID and COX-2, therapy prior and after 6 months PPI co-therapy, and 10 controls without any treatment. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, EGFR and p53 expression were measured by immunohistochemistry. At least 600 glandular epithel cells were encountered and results were expressed as % of total cells counted. We found increased cell proliferation in patients on chronic COX-2 but not on NSAID therapy. Patients on either NSAID or COX-2 therapy had an increased p53 and decreased EGFR expression. PPI therapy reversed not only the increased cell proliferation and p53 expression, but also the suppressed EGFR expression when administered as co-therapy.

The fewer gastrointestinal side effects observed during chronic COX-2 therapy may partially be the result of the higher cell proliferation. This effect is not mediated by the EGFR pathway. PPI co-therapy normalizes the disturbed cell kinetics irrespective of NSAID treatment used.
Inhibition of MCP-1 and MIP-2 Chemokines in Murine Trichinellosis: Effect of the Anti-Inflammatory Compound L-Mimosine
Authors: Frydas S. , Papaioannou N. , Papazahariadou M. , Hatzistilianou M. , Karagouni E. , Trakatelli M. , Brellou G. , Petrarca C. , Castellani M. L. , Conti P. , Riccioni G. , Patruno A. , Grilli A.
Published: January 2017

Mimosine, is a plant amino-acid which has been reported to block DNA replication in mammalian cells and to arrest cells reversibly towards the end of the G1 phase or at the beginning of the S phase. In this study, 42 mice were infected with T. spiralis, a nematode parasite, and treated with the anti-inflammatory compound L-mimosine, to determine if any alteration in the chronic inflammatory state occurred, by investigating the host's immunological response. MCP-1, a C-C chemokine and MIP-2, a C-X-C chemokine were tested and measured in the sera of infected animals, after 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days postinfection, by ELISA method. The diaphragm/muscle and the masseters of the infected mice, were tested for inflammatory response. We found that MCP-1 was partially inhibited by L-mimosine, while MIP-2 was totally inhibited. Moreover, in sections of the diaphragm and masseters, the infiltration of inflammatory cells such as macrophages, lymphocytes and eosinophils were more intense in untreated animals compared to those treated with L-mimosine. These findings show, that L-mimosine may have an inhibitory effect on MCP-1 and MIP-2 serum levels in Trichinellosis and may influence the recruitment of inflammatory cells and the intensity of the inflammatory reaction in this parasitic disease.
A Pilot Open Label Study of Cystoprotek® in Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: Theoharides T.C. , Sant G.R.
Published: January 2017

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a disorder of the urinary bladder characterized by urgency, frequency, nocturia and suprapubic pain. IC occurs primarily in women and symptoms are exacerbated by stress, ovulatory hormones and certain foods. IC pathogenesis is unknown, but the most consistent findings involve some dysfunction of the bladder glycosaminoglycan (GAG) protective layer and a high number of activated bladder mast cells. There is no effective therapy even through intravesical administration of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) or oral pentosanpolysulfate (PPS) have had variable success. A dietary supplement, CystoProtek®, was formulated with the natural GAG components chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate to provide urothelial cytoprotection, together with the flavonoid quercetin that has anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits activation of mast cells. Thirty-seven female patients diagnosed by the NIDDK criteria who had failed all forms of therapy took six softgel CystoProtek® capsules per day for 6 months. Global assessment scale was reduced from 9.0 ± 2.9 to 4.3 ± 2.1 (p <0.05); moreover, the O'Leary/Sant Symptom Index decreased from 16.3 ± 3.1 to 6.9 ± 4.2 (p <0.05) and the Problem Index from 13.1 ± 3.7 to 5.4 ± 4.0 (p <0.05). These results are very promising and warrant a larger study that may permit further analyses with respect to other, especially atopic, comorbid diseases.
In Vitro Effects of an Immunostimulating Bacterial Lysate on Human Lymphocyte Function
Authors: Lanzilli G. , Falchetti R. , Tricarico M. , Ungheri D. , Fuggetta M.P.
Published: January 2017

MLBL is an oral immunostimulating vaccine consisting of bacterial standardized lysates obtained by mechanical lysis of different strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria that can cause acute and chronic infections of the respiratory tract. Previous studies suggested a stimulating effect of MLBL both on humoral and cellular immune responses. In the present study, the in vitro effects of MLBL on human lymphocyte effector functions and its mechanisms of action were evaluated. The results show that the most remarkable effects of MLBL on the immune system are: i) activation of the IL-2 receptor (IL-2Rα) on different lymphocyte subsets (B, CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells) involved both in humoral and cellular immune responses; ii) induction of cytokine synthesis (IL-2, IL-10, IL-12, IFNγ) in the immune competent cells that induce and regulate immune responses; iii) generation of CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells. Overall, these results suggest that the therapeutic effect of MLBL on acute and recurrent infections of the respiratory tract is related to its ability to activate the responses of different subsets of immune competent cells both for humoral and cellular immunity. Moreover, these effects can be induced either by direct immune cell activation or through the generation and activation of immune effector cells.
Apoptotic Death of Listeria Monocytogenes-Infected Human Macrophages Induced by Lactoferricin B, A Bovine Lactoferrin-Derived Peptide
Authors: Longhi C. , Conte M. P. , Ranaldi S. , Penta M. , Valenti P. , Tinari A. , Superti F. , Seganti L.
Published: January 2017

Listeria monocytogenes, an intracellular facultative food-borne pathogen, was reported to induce apoptosis in vitro and in vivo in a variety of cell types with the exception of murine macrophages. These cells represent the predominant compartment of bacterial multiplication and die as a result of necrosis. In this study we showed that human non-activated and IFN-γ-activated macrophagic-like (THP-1) cells infected with L. monocytogenes, mainly die by necrosis rather than by an apoptotic process. Two natural products derived from bovine milk, lactoferrin and its derivative peptide lactoferricin B, are capable of regulating the fate of infected human macrophages. Bovine lactoferrin treatment of macrophages protects them from L. monocytogenes-induced death whereas lactoferricin B, its derivative peptide, determines a shifting of the equilibrium from necrosis to apoptosis.
A Limited Autoimmunity to p185neu Elicited by DNA and Allogeneic Cell Vaccine Hampers the Progression of Preneoplastic Lesions in HER-2/NEU Transgenic Mice
Authors: Lo Iacono M. , Cavallo F. , Quaglino E. , Rolla S. , Iezzi M. , Pupa S. M. , De Giovanni C. , Lollini P.-L. , Musiani P. , Forni G. , Calogero R. A.
Published: January 2017

Prevention of the progression of precancerous lesions by vaccines is a virtually uncharted territory. Their potential, however, is being assessed in transgenic mice which develop autochthonous tumors with defined stages of progression. In this paper we show that the DNA micro-array technology significantly helps assessment of the preventive efficacy of a combined DNA and cell vaccine. All female rat Her-2/neu transgenic BALB/c (BALB-neuT) mice develop an invasive carcinoma in each of their mammary glands within 25 weeks of age. This is elicited by the activated transforming rat Her-2/neu oncogene embedded in their genome. We have previously shown that vaccination of mice bearing multiple in situ carcinomas with DNA plasmids which code for the extracellular and transmembrane domain of rat p185neu, the product of the rat Her-2/neu oncogene, followed by a boost with rat p185neu+ allogeneic cells engineered to secrete interferon-γ, keeps 48% of mice tumor free until week 32. We have now extended our follow-up until mice reach one year of age and show that protection vanishes as time progresses. This observation suggests that the accuracy of the results studying immunotherapy against life-threatening tumors is a function of the length of the follow-up. The application of microarrays, and the concordance of morphologic and gene expression data led us to identify antibody as the main mechanism induced by vaccination. Protection is associated with a break of tolerance and a limited autoimmunity against the
Excessively High Magnetic Resonance Signal in Preterm Infants and Neuropsychobehavioural Follow-up at 2 Years
Authors: Domizio S. , Barbante E. , Puglielli C. , Clementini E. , Domizio R. , Sabatino G.M.D. , Albanese A. , Colosimo C. , Sabatino G.
Published: January 2017

The diffuse excessive high-signal intensity (DEHSI) findings in the T2 weighted scans of white matter (WM), besides the corresponding low signal in the T1 weighted images, are usually more evident around the periventricular regions. It is not clear whether the DEHSI should be considered as a diffuse WM injury rather than a sign of delayed maturation of the WM. Eighty nine preterm infants at the full-term equivalent age (FEA) were studied using conventional Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging of the brain. Based on the MR findings, the infants studied were divided into three groups: the control group presenting normal WM, the DEHSI group and the group with other WM lesions. Ten newborns were not included in the statistical analysis because they presented evidence of precedent germinal matrix hemorrhage (GMH-IVH) which cannot be considered as WM lesions. Seventy nine infants were enrolled in a program of neuropsychobehavioural study follow-up until 24 months of age. Each infant was evaluated for those variables which mostly affect the occurrence of neuropsychomotor disability. In the DEHSI infant group, significantly lower mean pH and mean base excess (BE) values were found in comparison to controls, while the mean birth weight (BW) was significantly higher. No significant difference was observed between the mean 1st minute Apgar Score, mean birth gestational age (GA) and assisted ventilation mean duration of controls and DEHSI groups. Finally, no significant difference between the parameters studied was found by comparing the WM lesion infants group to the DEHSI infants one. Our observations, together with follow-up studies, even up to school age, confirm that DEHSI has a clinical significance and cannot be considered as a simple indicator of delayed WM maturation.
Discrete MBL-MASP Complexes Show Wide Inter-Individual Variability in Concentration: Data from UK vs Armenian Populations
Authors: Mayilyan K.R. , Presanis J.S. , Arnold J.N. , Sim R.B.
Published: January 2017

Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) circulates in plasma in complex with MBL-associated serine proteases (MASP) −1, −2 and −3 and a smaller component, MAp19. When MBL binds to the surface of foreign material (microorganisms), MASP-1, −2, −3 are activated. MASP-2 then activates the complement system. MASP-1 and −3 may activate other (unidentified) systems. MBL levels, MBL-bound MASP-1 and MBL-bound MASP-2 activities have been evaluated in healthy individuals from UK and Armenian populations. MBL-bound MASP-2 activity declines in aging (p<0.04). MBL correlates with smoking (p<0.02). There were significant differences between the two populations in MBL-bound MASP-1 activity and in MBL, but no difference in MBL-bound MASP-2 activity. When MASP activities were normalised to MBL (i.e. MASP-1 activity/MBL, MASP-2 activity/MBL), normalised MASP-2 activity in UK individuals was more than 2 fold higher than in Armenians. The difference in normalised MASP-2 activity level between these two Caucasoid populations, suggests that concentration of the MBL-(MASP-2) complex, and therefore the function of activating complement, depends not only on the quantity of MBL in serum and its oligomeric state, but also on the quantity of MASP-2 in serum. It is likely that in individuals with high MBL concentration there is excess free MBL not occupied by MASPs, particularly not by MASP-2.