bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Studies on the Effects of Specific Immunoneutralization of Endogenous FSH or LH on Testicular Germ Cell Transformations in the Adult Bonnet Monkey (Macaca radiata)
Authors: SURESH R. , MEDHAMURTHY R. , MOUDGAL N.R.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: It is yet to be determined clearly whether the two hormones FSH and T act synergistically in the same cell type—the Sertoli cells—to control overall spermatogenesis or influence independently the transformation of specific germ cell types during spermatogenesis in the adult mammal.

METHOD: Adult male bonnet monkeys specifically deprived of either FSH or LH using immunoneutralization techniques were monitored for changes in testicular germ cell transformation by DNA flow cytometry.

RESULTS: FSH deprivation caused a significant reduction (>40%; P < 0.05) in [3H] thymidine incorporation into DNA of proliferating 2C (spermatogonial) cells, a marked inhibition (>50%) in the transformation of 2C to primary spermatocytes (4C) and a concomitant, belated reduction (50%) in the formation of round spermatids (1C). In contrast, specific LH/T deprivation led to an immediate arrest in the meiotic transformation of 4C to 1C/HC leading to an effective and significant block (<90%; P < 0.01) in sperm production.

CONCLUSION: Thus, LH rather than FSH deprivation has a more pronounced and immediate effect as the former primarily blocks meiosis (4C → 1C/HC) which controls production of spermatids. These data provide evidence for LH/T and FSH regulating spermatogenic process in the adult primate by primarily acting at specific germ cell transformation steps.
Immunohistochemical Localization of C9 Neoantigen and the Terminal Complement Inhibitory Protein CD59 in Human Endometrium
Authors: RATNOFF WILLIAM D. , BROCKMAN WENDY W. , HASTY LISA A.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Human endometrium expresses complement components, receptors, and regulatory proteins, many of which appear to be expressed in a hormone‐dependent manner. Whether terminal complement components are also present in the endometrium is unknown. CD59, a broadly expressed protein that blocks association of C9 with C8 in the membrane attack complex, is localized in reproductive tissue to human spermatozoa, seminal plasma, amniotic fluid, and placenta. The present study examines human endometrium for the presence of CD59 and terminal complement proteins.

METHOD: Endometrial biopsies were obtained from six normal women from various phases of the menstrual cycle and analyzed by immunohistochemistry, using MEM‐43 anti‐human CD59 and anti‐human SC5b‐9 murine monoclonal antibodies and the immunoperoxidase technique.

RESULTS: Both CD59 protein and SC5b‐9 (C9 neoantigen) were demonstrated to be present in endometrial glandular epithelium throughout the menstrual cycle. No specific staining was demonstrated in the stromal compartment.

CONCLUSION: CD59 protein and terminal complement proteins are expressed in glandular epithelial cells of normal human endometrium, in both proliferative and luteal phases, suggesting that expression is not hormonally dependent. These analyses further support the presence of a functionally active complement system in normal human endometrium.
Up‐Regulated Expression of CD56+, CD56+/ CD16+, and CD19+ Cells in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in Pregnant Women With Recurrent Pregnancy Losses
Authors: KWAK JOANNE Y.H. , BEAMAN KENNETH D. , GILMAN‐SACHS ALICE , RUIZ JAIME E. , SCHEWITZ DAVID , BEER ALAN E.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: To analyze immunophenotypic profiles of peripheral blood and humoral autoimmune responses in women with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA).

METHOD: Peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets by flow cytometry and autoantibodies to phospholipids and nuclear components by ELISA were measured in non pregnant and pregnant women with RSA of unknown etiology. Thirty‐five pregnant and eighty‐one nonpregnant women with RSA were studied. Seventeen nonpregnant and twenty‐two pregnant normal controls were included.

RESULTS: Natural killer (NK) cells (CD56+) were significantly elevated in nonpregnant women with RSA as compared with nonpregnant controls. Pregnant women with RSA demonstrated significantly increased NK (CD56+, CD56+/CD16+) and B cells (CD19+) as compared with pregnant controls. Women who miscarried the index pregnancy demonstrated significantly lower CD3+ cells in comparison with normal controls. Women with RSA and antiphospholipid antibodies showed significantly elevated NK cells when compared with women without antiphospholipid antibodies. Women with autoantibodies to nuclear components demonstrated significantly elevated CD19+/CD5+ cells when compared to women without autoantibodies to nuclear components.

CONCLUSIONS: Women with RSA demonstrate an abnormal cellular immune response by increasing peripheral natural killer cells and B cells as compared with normal controls.
Anamnestic Development of Lymphocytic Infiltration in Murine Experimental Autoimmune Oophoritis Is Primarily Localized in the Stroma and Theca
Authors: RAJ SHAILAJA , NAIR SHARMILA , MASTORAKOS GEORGE , NELSON LAWRENCE M.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Neonatal thymectomy performed on day 3 of life (NTX3) induces autoimmune oophoritis and ovarian failure in B6A mice. These mice develop high‐titer autoantibodies specific to oocytes, and ultimately the ovaries become fibrotic and devoid of primordial follicles. These findings implicate the oocyte as a primary target of the autoimmune process. However, in previous work we demonstrated that in developing disease the lymphocytic infiltration was confined to the stroma and theca, and not found involving oocytes. Here, we investigate the possibility that lymphocytic infiltration involving oocytes develops as part of end‐stage disease.

METHOD: We transplanted normal syngeneic ovaries to B6A mice with confirmed autoimmune ovarian failure, and, as a control, to normal oophorectomized mice. We then defined the time course and histologic distribution of lymphocytic infiltration in the transplanted ovaries. Lymphocytes were identified by morphology with the aid of an immunohistochemical leukocyte marker (CD45).

RESULTS: Autoimmune oophoritis developed by 7 days after transplantation to the NTX3 mice. Compared to control mice, in these mice we found significantly increased stromal and thecal lymphocytic infiltration. In no case did we observe lymphocytic infiltration involving oocytes.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings agree with our previous report and suggest that the ovarian failure in this model is not mediated by a direct lymphocytic attack against intact oocytes. Other immune‐mediated mechanisms are responsible. The paradoxical development of high‐titer oocyte‐specific antibodies despite the stromal and thecal location of the lymphocytic infiltration remains to be explained.
Murine Experimental Autoimmune Oophoritis Develops Independently of Gonadotropin Stimulation and is Primarily Localized in the Stroma and Theca
Authors: NAIR SHARMILA , MASTORAKOS GEORGE , RAJ SHAILAJA , NELSON LAWRENCE M.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Neonatal thymectomy performed on day 3 of life (NTX3) induces experimental autoimmune oophoritis in certain strains of mice. The disease has its onset around the time of the first estrous, suggesting the process may be gonadotropin dependent. Furthermore, one study reported that gonadotropin stimulation exacerbated the ovarian lymphocytic infiltration in NTX3 mice. Here we examine the possibility that gonadotropin stimulation of the ovary plays a role in the development of post‐thymectomy autoimmune oophoritis.

METHOD: Using immunohistochemistry we defined the time course and histologic distribution of the post‐thymectomy ovarian lymphocytic infiltration that develops in B6A mice ([C57BL6 × A/J]F1). We detected ovarian leukocytes using a monoclonal antibody against mouse CD45/T200 and counted those positive staining cells that had the morphologic appearance of lymphocytes. We then treated NTX3 mice to determine if gonadotropin stimulation could exacerbate the disease or cause the disease to appear earlier. We also treated NTX3 mice to determine if gonadotropin suppression could reduce the severity of the disease.

RESULTS: Ovarian lymphocytic infiltration was observed as early as 3 weeks after thymectomy, and, during the course of the disease, was primarily located in the stroma and theca. Gonadotropin stimulation did not exacerbate existing disease or induce an earlier onset of severe disease. Furthermore, gonadotropin suppression did not reduce the degree of lymphocytic infiltration or oocyte destruction.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that murine experimental autoimmune oophoritis develops independently of gonadotropin stimulation of the ovary.
Low‐Dose Aspirin Therapy and Placental Pathology in Women With Poor Prior Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: CUSICK WILLIAM , SALAFIA CAROLYN M. , ERNST LINDA , RODIS JOHN F. , CAMPBELL WINSTON A. , VINTZILEOS ANTHONY M.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: To determine if low dose aspirin therapy improves placental histology in women with a prior complicated pregnancy demonstrating uterine vascular pathology.

METHOD: A retrospective chart review identified patients with a prior complicated pregnancy with placental changes showing uterine vascular pathology (control pregnancy, CP). In the treated pregnancy (TP), 81 mg/day of ASA was started prior to 10 weeks. Placental reports from the CP and TP were reviewed. Pregnancy outcomes and placental histology from the CP were compared to the TP for each patient.

RESULTS: Thirteen patients were enrolled. The majority of patients (8/13, 61.5%) exhibited recurrent, histologic evidence of uterine vascular pathology in the TP. The TP was more likely to be uncomplicated (P < 0.05), delivered after 36 weeks (P < 0.05), and result in the delivery of a viable infant (P < 0.05) compared to the CP.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite an improvement in outcomes in the aspirin treated pregnancy, histologic evidence of uterine vascular pathology persisted in the majority of women with a prior complicated pregnancy demonstrating similar placental lesions. Abnormal placental histology may be useful in identifying a group of women with poor obstetrical histories who could benefit from low‐dose aspirin therapy.
Amniochorion: A Source of Interleukin‐8
Authors: FORTUNATO STEPHEN J. , MENON RAMKUMAR , SWAN KENNETH F.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Preterm labor and premature rupture of the membranes are major complications of pregnancy. We have reported the possible role of amniochorionic membrane in the production of inflammatory cytokines and the early onset of labor. This study was conducted to detect the expression of IL‐8 mRNA and peptide production in cultured fetal membranes.

METHOD: Amniochorionic membranes were collected from women undergoing elective cesarean section at term. Membranes were cultured in an organ explant system and the expression of IL‐8 was studied over a 10‐day period by RT‐PCR and in situ hybridization. IL‐8 peptide localization was accomplished using immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS: Constitutive expression of IL‐8 mRNA in cultured fetal membranes was demonstrated in both amniotic and chorionic leave cells. mRNA and peptide for IL‐8 was homogeneously distributed throughout the amniotic and chorionic cells.

CONCLUSION: Human amniochorionic membrane is a source of IL‐8 mRNA and peptide.
γδ T‐Cell Subset Distribution in Human Semen From Fertile Donors
Authors: BERTOTTO A. , SPINOZZI F. , GERLI R. , BASSOTTI G. , FABIETTI G.M. , CASTELLUCCI G. , VAGLIASINDI C. , VACCARO R.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: γδ T‐cell subset distribution has not been fully investigated in normal human semen.

METHODS: We therefore carried out experiments by using a direct immunofluorescence staining technique followed by two‐color cytofluorimetric analysis on mononuclear cell (MC) suspensions from ejaculates of ten healthy, fertile volunteers. Autologous peripheral blood MC were simultaneously analyzed and the results used for statistical comparison.

RESULTS: The proportion of normal human semen lymphocytes bearing the γδ T‐cell receptor for antigen was greatly increased compared with autologous circulating counterparts. Interestingly, the rise was mainly due to an overexpansion of cells expressing Vδl gene‐encoded determinants on their surface. This contrasts with the normal blood picture, where most γδ T cells express Vδ2 conformational epitopes.

CONCLUSIONS: The numerical and phenotypical differences in semen γδ T lymphocytes provide further evidence of a defined migrating lymphocyte subset balance in anatomically and physiologically distinct areas of the body. Their functional role, in terms of both helper and suppressor‐cytotoxic activities in the nonsterile proximal portions of the male genital tract, now needs to be explored in detail.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Endothelin‐1 in Placenta and Fetal Membranes in Term and Preterm Human Pregnancy
Authors: MARINONI EMANUELA , PICCA ARIANNA , SCUCCHI LUIGI , COSMI ERMELANDO V. , DI IORIO ROMOLO
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: The aim of the study was to determine the ET‐1 localization on human placenta and fetal membranes and to compare its distribution between term and preterm pregnancies in laboring and non‐laboring tissues.

METHODS: Tissues obtained from nine term elective cesarean section, eight spontaneous vaginal term delivery, and 13 preterm delivery from both cesarean section (N = 6) and vaginal delivery (N = 7) were studied by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS: Immunoreactive ET‐1 (IR‐ET‐1) was detected in villous and nonvillous trophoblast in all groups, although laboring tissues showed strong staining in the syncytiotrophoblast of the villi. ET‐1 immunostaining of endothelial cells was observed in all placental villous vessels with a considerable variability within groups. In the fetal membranes, intensive immunopositive staining was observed in the chorionic trophoblast following vaginal deliveries in term and preterm tissues.

CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to report the localization of IR‐ET‐1 in human fetal membranes and placenta, and suggests that amnion and trophoblast represents a source of ET‐1 production or, alternatively, a site for ET‐1 binding.
Normal Uterine Cervix: Characterization of Isolated Lymphocyte Phenotypes and Immunoglobulin Secretion
Authors: CROWLEY‐NOWICK PEGGY A. , BELL MARIA , EDWARDS ROBERT P. , MCCALLISTER DANIEL , GORE HAZEL , KANBOUR‐SHAKIR AMAL , MESTECKY JIRI , PARTRIDGE EDWARD E.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Isolation of viable cervical lymphocyte populations and characterization of their function in healthy tissue is necessary to understand immunity in the genital tract.

METHODS: Normal, cervical tissue was digested using a multi‐enzymatic digestion procedure. Lymphocytes were characterized using FACS analysis and ELISPOT analysis for immunoglobulin secreting cells.

RESULTS: Following the digestion procedure, 0.16 × 106 ± 0.8 cells/g of tissue with a viability of 90–98% were isolated from normal cervical tissue. FACS analysis determined that B lymphocytes were the predominant cell type in normal cervical tissue representing a significantly higher percentage than that found in peripheral blood (P=0.015). T lymphocytes and NK cells represented a significantly lower percentage than that found in peripheral blood (P=0.0001 and 0.026, respectively). The largest percentage of immunoglobulin secreting cells isolated were secreting IgG followed by IgA. A limited number of IgM secreting cells were detected. IgA2 secreting cells represented 34.46 ± 4.6% of the total number of IgA plasma cells.

CONCLUSION: These studies represent the first analysis of viable mononuclear cells isolated from normal cervical tissue. The results form a baseline from which it will now be possible to compare changes that occur at the cervical squamocolumnar junction in response to infection or neoplasia.
Anticardiolipin Antibodies in Patients With Pregnancy Loss Induce Factor Xa Production in the Presence of (β2‐Glycoprotein I
Authors: OGASAWARA MAYUMI , AOKI KOJI , MATSUURA EIJI , KUNIMATSU MITOSHI , OHKUBO IWAO , GALLI MONICA , SASAKI MAKOTO , YAGAMI YOSHIAKI
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) are commonly associated with recurrent pregnancy loss, though the mechanism is uncertain. Some investigators have indicated that aCL may be directed at a complex made up of cardiolipin and a blood anticoagulant, β2‐glycoprotein I (β2GPI). We therefore investigated the effects of β2GPI‐dependent aCL IgG enriched fractions, isolated from sera of patients with pregnancy losses, on blood coagulation.

METHOD: β2GPI‐dependent aCL were prepared from sera of three women with second trimester pregnancy losses, by cardiolipin affinity column chromography, following by anti‐β2GPI affinity column chromatography. The effects of β2GPI and β2GPI‐dependent aCL on the activation of factor X in vitro were examined.

RESULTS: β2GPI inhibited the activation of factor X and β2GPI‐dependent aCL blocked this inhibitory effect in a dose dependent manner.

CONCLUSION: These results imply the possibility of β2GPI‐dependent aCL induce hypercoagulation or thrombus by blocking the inhibitory effect of β2GPI on activation of factor X, which may result in pregnancy loss.
Immunoteratology: I. MHC Involvement in the Embryo Response to Teratogens in Mice
Authors: TORCHINSKY A. , FEIN A. , TODER V.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: The present study was carried out to evaluate an involvement of MHC‐associated maternal immunoreactivity in response to environmental teratogens.

METHODS: Two chemicals, cyclophosphamide (CP) and 2,3‐quinoxalinedimetanol, 1,4‐dioxide (QD) were used as the reference teratogens (RT). The response to these RT was investigated in syngeneically and allogeneically mated CBA/J and C57B1/6 mice. In part of C57B1/6 female mice, paraaortic lymph nodes were extirpated 14 days before mating to allogeneic or syngeneic males. Twenty or 40 mg/kg of CP or 300 or 600 mg/kg of QD were injected on day 12 and 9 of pregnancy, accordingly (vaginal plug indicates day 1 of pregnancy). On day 19 of pregnancy implantation sites, resorptions, live and dead fetuses were recorded and live fetuses were examined with methods routinely used in applied teratology.

RESULTS: Both mice strains showed equal response to teratogens but the RT‐induced effect was significantly weaker in allogeneic than syngeneic mouse combinations. Extirpation of draining lymph nodes dramatically increased the sensitivity to RT in allogeneically mated females but failed to alter that of syngeneically mated ones.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that fetomaternal MHC incompatibility exerts the favourable influence on teratological resistance of the embryo and MHC‐associated immunoreactivity of “mother‐fetus” axis is possibly responsible for this effect.
Detection of Monocyte Chemotactic and Activating Factor (MCAF) and Interleukin (IL)‐6 in Human Seminal Plasma and Effect of Leukospermia on These Cytokine Levels
Authors: SHIMOYA KOUICHIRO , MATSUZAKI NOBORU , IDA NOBUO , OKADA TAKAYOSHI , TANIGUCHI TAKESHI , SAWAI KEISUKE , ITOH SHINICHI , OHASHI KAZUTOMO , SAJI FUMITAKA , TANIZAWA OSAMU
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: To demonstrate whether monocyte chemotactic and activating factor (MCAF) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) are present in the seminal plasma, and whether these presence is modulated by leukospermia.

METHODS: Semen samples from 53 men were obtained by masturbation and examined for the presence of MCAF and IL‐6 by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Semen samples were obtained from 28 infertile men without leukospermia, 16 infertile men with leukospermia, and nine proven‐fertile men. The correlation between the amount of MCAF in the seminal plasma with some spermiogram parameters and other cytokines such as IL‐6 and IL‐8 was statistically evaluated.

RESULTS: Immunoreactive MCAF was detected in the seminal plasmas of all 53 subjects. The MCAF titer in the seminal plasma of patients with leukospermia (11.19 ± 2.75 μg/1) was significantly higher than that in the seminal plasma of the patients without leukospermia (3.24 ± 0.53 μg/1) and the fertile men (2.78 ± 0.35 μg/1) (P < 0.001). The IL‐6 titer in the seminal plasma of the patients with leukospermia (21.05 ± 4.49 ng/1) was also significantly higher than that in the seminal plasma of the patients without leukospermia (8.77 ± 1.92 ng/1) and the fertile men (6.94 ± 1.27 ng/1) (P < 0.01). There was a high degree of correlation among the levels of MCAF, IL‐6 and IL‐8 in the seminal plasma.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrated the presence of MCAF and IL‐6 in the seminal plasma, and that the levels of these cytokines were elevated in the seminal plasma of the infertile patients with leukospermia.
Prevalence of Embryotoxic Factor in Sera From Women With Unexplained Recurrent Abortion
Authors: THOMASON EDWARD J. , ROUSSEV ROUMEN G. , STERN J. JAROSLAV , COULAM CAROLYN B.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: The presence of embryotoxic factors in sera from women with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) has been proposed as a basis for classification of unexplained RSA. To determine the prevalence of circulating embryotoxins among women with idiopathic RSA, sera from 160 women were studied using the mouse blastocyst assay.

METHODS: Two‐cell embryos were collected from superovulated mated CB6F1/J mice and cultured in media supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS) or 10% serum at 37°C with 5% CO2 and high humidity. Each assay was run in triplicate using three mice with at least five embryos from each mouse. Results were determined by calculating the average percentage atresia for each mouse. FBS, known to support embryo proliferation, was used to control in each assay.

RESULTS: The prevalence of embryotoxic factors among women experiencing RSA was 24.4% (39/160). There is no correlation found between the presence of embryotoxicity and phospholipid antibodies, lupus anticoagulant, and thyroglobulin/microsomal antibodies.

CONCLUSION: The embryotoxicity assay can serve as a basis for a new approach for classification of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion.
The Direct Embryotoxicity of Immunoglobulin G Fractions From Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: NADLER DAVID M. , KLEIN NORMAN W. , ARAMLI LILI A. , CHAMBERS BENEDICT J. , MAVES MARGARET , WENER MARK H.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: To determine if IgG fractions from sera of individuals with systemic lupus erthymatosus (SLE) were toxic to cultures of whole rat embryos.

METHODS: Head‐fold stage rat embryos (9.5 days of gestation) were cultured on media consisting of 50% rat serum containing IgG fractions isolated from plasmapheresis plasma of six subjects with SLE and six with other autoimmune diseases. Each fraction was tested at 11 mg/ml and those toxic were also tested at 7.5 and 4 mg/ml.

RESULTS: Of the six SLE IgG fractions, four were embryotoxic (embryolethal or teratogenic) while only one of the six non‐SLE fractions were embryotoxic.

CONCLUSION: IgG fractions from subjects with SLE can be toxic to cultures of whole rat embryos in the absence of maternal tissues or influence. Such cultures of whole embryos may be useful to identify those antibodies that represent a risk for fetal loss as well as to understand their mechanisms of embryotoxicity.
Study of Antisperm Antibodies Bound to the Sperm Cell Surface and Their Relationship to Circulating ASA
Authors: GANDINI LOREDANA , LENZI ANDREA , CULASSO FRANCO , LOMBARDO FRANCESCO , PAOLI DONATELLA , DONDERO FRANCO
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Direct and indirect tests for antisperm antibody (ASA) detection are commonly used in laboratories for the diagnosis of male immunological infertility. Even though the two kinds of tests study the same immunological phenomena, frequently no perfect correlation is found even on large series of patients and with precise statistical models. The aim of the present investigation was to try to establish whether biological models can explain the antibody test results and if a predictive threshold can be established for expected positivity/negativity.

METHOD: The data relate to 667 patients, who were screened using the Direct Immunobead test (d‐IBT) for ASA bound to the sperm surface and with the gelatin and tray agglutination test (GAT and TAT) in sera for circulating ASA. Correlations were studied and cases of no correlation were further analyzed.

RESULTS: The number of patients with a clinically significant positivity to d‐IBT (binding percentage ≥ 20%) was 134 (20.1 % of total patients). The analysis of the results of direct and indirect tests shows that the discordances are due to differences in the Ig class of immunization or to the site of epitopes involved. In fact, as far the Ig class is concerned, if d‐IBT shows a prevalent or exclusive IgG or IgA positivity, this results in a poor correlation between binding percentage to d‐IBT and GAT‐TAT titers. If both the Ig classes are involved, the level of positivity of the two kinds of test are strictly related. As far as the site of Ag‐Ab reaction on the sperm surface is concerned, the wide immunization involving all the surface sperm antigens (mixed), shown by d‐IBT, is related to higher indirect test titers.

CONCLUSION: Local and systemic antisperm immunizations are strictly related and a predictive threshold of expectation can be established to explain even apparently discordant direct and indirect results.
Interaction of Heparin With Antiphospholipid Antibodies (APA) From the Sera of Women With Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)
Authors: Ermel Leann D. , Marshburn Paul B. , Kutteh William H.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: To determine if heparin may act directly with antiphospholipid antibodies (APA) to prevent recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

METHOD: Patients were seen at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Twenty women with a history of RPL (≥3 miscarriages), positive APA, and an otherwise normal evaluation were treated with heparin in two daily subcutaneous dosages during a successful pregnancy. APA levels were obtained prior to conception and again at 6, 20, and 30 weeks.

RESULTS: Heparin reduced APA binding to cardiolipin and phosphatidylserine in a dose‐dependent fashion in ELISA. Heparin affinity chromatography absorbed over 80% of the IgG anticardiolipin antibody in serum from women with high levels of APA. Women treated with increasing dosages of heparin during pregnancy had inversely decreasing levels of IgG anticardiolipin antibody.

CONCLUSION: Heparin may act by directly binding APA in vivo, thereby decreasing the adverse effects of APA in women with APA associated RPL.
Purification and Characterization of a Pregnancy‐Associated Protein: TJ6s
Authors: Mandal M. , Beaman K. D.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: Characterization of the soluble form of a novel protein, TJ6 (TJ6s) with immune suppressive activity from murine fetoplacental units.

METHOD: Preferential ammonium sulfate precipitation, gel filtration and ion‐exchange chromatography were employed to purify the protein TJ6s from murine fetoplacental units using an anti‐peptide antibody as a detection tool. Biological activity of the purified protein was studied in lymphocyte proliferation assays.

RESULTS: Purified TJ6s has a Mr of approximately 18 kDa as evidenced by SDS‐PAGE in both reducing and non reducing conditions. It exerted a strong anti‐proliferative activity in both anti‐CD3 and Con A proliferation lymphocyte proliferation assays but not in a PHA assay, suggesting that the anti‐proliferative effects on T cells are exerted only on cells specifically activated directly through T cell receptor complex.

CONCLUSION: The results indicate that TJ6s is a novel anti‐proliferative protein that has many of the characteristics that are considered necessary for survival of the fetal allograft.
Monoclonal IgM Antiphosphatidylserine Antibody Reacts Against Cytoskeleton‐Like Structures in Cultured Human Umbilical Cord Endothelial Cells
Authors: Lin Lin , Shroyer Lois , Walter Anne , Lyden Timothy W. , Ng Ah Kau , Rote Neal S.
Published: May 2013

PROBLEM: It has been proposed that antibodies against phospholipid‐dependent antigens (aPLs), induce recurrent pregnancy loss and thrombosis through modulation of endothelial cell function, yet aPLs have not been conclusively shown to bind with endothelial cells.

METHOD: Using indirect immunofluorescence we investigated the anti‐endothelial cell reactivity of three monoclonal antibodies that differentiate between the phospholipids cardiolipin (CL) and phosphatidylserine (PS): BA3B5C4 (CL+/PS+); 3SB9b (CL‐/PS+); and D11A4 (CL+/PS‐). Cultured umbilical cord endothelial cells were prepared without fixation or with cold acetone fixation.

RESULTS: None of the aPLs reacted with endothelial cells prepared without fixation. 3SB9B reacted strongly with cytoskeletal‐like components in acetone‐fixed cells, whereas BA3B5C4 and D11A4 were unreactive. The cytoskeletal‐like binding of 3SB9b was completely blocked by a monoclonal antibody against vimentin, whereas antibodies against tubulin or actin were not inhibitory. Lipid extraction of the cells destroyed the 3SB9b reactive antigen without affecting the reactivity of anti‐vimentin.

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that phospholipid‐dependent antigenic determinants are not expressed on the surface of resting endothelial cells but that a PS‐dependent antigenic determinant is associated with endothelial cell intermediate filaments.
The impact of frequently encountered cardiovascular risk factors on sexual dysfunction in rheumatic disorders
Authors: Anyfanti P. , Pyrpasopoulou A. , Triantafyllou A. , Doumas M. , Gavriilaki E. , Triantafyllou G. , Gkaliagkousi E. , Chatzimichailidou S. , Petidis K. , Avagianou P.‐A. , Zamboulis C. , Aslanidis S. , Douma S.
Published: May 2013

Traditional cardiovascular risk factors have been acknowledged as major contributors to sexual dysfunction in the general population. The purpose of this study was to explore their impact on sexual function in rheumatologic patients. A total of 557 consecutive rheumatologic patients, 449 females and 108 males, had their sexual function evaluated with the Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire respectively. Personal data regarding presence of cardiovascular risk factors were collected and analysed in association with the FSFI and IIEF scores. Mean age of the participants was 54.1 ± 14.1 years, mean body mass index was 27.5 ± 5.29 and mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure was 130.5 ± 19.82 and 79.5 ± 10.51 mmHg respectively. Hypertension was present in 39% of the participants, diabetes mellitus in 10.2%, dyslipidaemia in 33.6% and history of cardiovascular events in 8.6%, whereas smoking was recorded by 28.4% and alcohol consumption by 7.4%. Sexual dysfunction affected 68.6% of our study population (73.5% of females and 48.1% of males, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that age was the only factor associated with a significantly higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction (p < 0.001 for both genders, p = 0.013 in males and p < 0.001 in females). Increased age was identified as the only independent predictor of sexual dysfunction in our population. Apart from age, traditional cardiovascular risk factors failed to explain the increased prevalence of sexual dysfunction in these patients. Other contributing factors (physical and/or psychological) might account for the increased occurrence of sexual dysfunction in rheumatic disorders.
Predictors of Uncontrolled Hypertension in the Stroke Belt
Authors: Dave Gaurav J. , Bibeau Daniel L. , Schulz Mark R. , Aronson Robert E. , Ivanov Louise L. , Black Adina , Spann LaPronda
Published: May 2013

Inadequate control of high systolic blood pressure in older adults has been largely attributable to poor control of overall hypertension (HTN). The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7) guidelines emphasize the importance of controlling isolated systolic HTN in older adults. The study examined demographics, self‐reported health information, and clinical measures as predictors of uncontrolled HTN among individuals taking antihypertensive medications. The Community Initiative to Eliminate Stroke, a stroke risk factor screening and prevention project, collected data in two North Carolina counties. Statistical modeling of predictors included odds ratios (ORs) and logistic regression analyses. Of the 2663 participants, 43.5% and 22.8% had uncontrolled systolic and diastolic HTN, respectively. African Americans were more likely to have uncontrolled systolic (60%) or diastolic HTN (70.9%) compared with whites (40% and 29.1%, respectively). Participants 55 years and older were more likely to have uncontrolled systolic HTN compared with younger individuals. Regression analyses showed that race (OR, 1.239; P=.00), age (OR, 1.683; P=.00), and nonadherence with medications (OR, 2.593; P=.00) were significant predictors of uncontrolled systolic HTN. Future interventions should focus on improving management of isolated systolic HTN in older adults and African Americans to increase overall control of HTN.
Usefulness of a novel system for measuring glucose area under the curve while screening for glucose intolerance in outpatients
Authors: Sakamoto Kenya , Kubo Fumiyo , Yoshiuchi Kazutomi , Ono Akemi , Sato Toshiyuki , Tomita Koji , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko , Matsuhisa Munehide , Kaneto Hideaki , Maegawa Hiroshi , Nakajima Hiromu , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Kosugi Keisuke
Published: May 2013

Aims/Introduction

To realize the effectiveness of a novel system for measuring glucose area under the curve (AUC) using minimally invasive interstitial fluid extraction technology (MIET), outpatients undergoing oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were investigated for the efficacy of screening for glucose intolerance using this system.

Materials and Methods

Fifty outpatients scheduled to undergo a 75‐g OGTT for medical reasons were recruited to the study. An area of skin on the forearm was pretreated with microneedle arrays before the application of hydrogels for interstitial fluid extraction. Plasma glucose (PG) levels were measured every 30 min for 2 h to calculate reference (actual) AUC. The AUC was predicted by MIET on the basis of glucose extracted by the hydrogel using sodium ion levels as the internal standard.

Results

Good correlation between MIET‐predicted and reference AUCs obtained using PG levels was confirmed for a wide AUC range. By introducing a threshold level for AUC to separate glucose intolerance with peak glucose ≥180 mg/dL from normal glucose tolerance, the system was demonstrated to provide better screening accuracy compared with conventional methods that use HbA1c and fasting PG levels. The results of a questionnaire‐based survey administered to the subjects suggested that this system was readily accepted by the majority as a painless monitoring method.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that our glucose AUC measurement system using MIET would be useful for screening of glucose intolerance. In the future, this system may prove to be a useful aid as a screen for glucose intolerance before performing an OGTT for diagnosis.
A cluster randomised controlled trial of a nutrition education intervention in the community
Authors: Madigan S. M. , Fleming P. , Wright M. E. , Stevenson M. , MacAuley D.
Published: May 2013

Background

Patients with enteral feeding tubes are increasingly managed in their home environment and these patients require support from a range of healthcare professionals.

Methods

A cluster randomised trial of an educational intervention was undertaken among General Practitioners and nurses both in the community and in nursing home caring for patients recently discharged to primary care. This was a short, duration (<1 h), nutrition education programme delivered in the work place soon after the patient was discharged from hospital. The primary outcome was an improvement in knowledge immediately after the intervention and the secondary outcome was knowledge at 6 months.

Results

Those in the intervention group had improved knowledge, which was significantly greater than those in the control group (P < 0.001), although this knowledge was not sustained at 6 months.

Conclusions

A short, work‐based targeted nutrition education programme is effective for improving knowledge among general practitioners and nurses both in the community and in nursing homes.
The impact of nutritional supplementation on quality of life in patients infected with hepatitis C virus
Authors: Boulhosa R. S. S. B. , Oliveira L. P. M. , Jesus R. P. , Cavalcante L. N. , Lemaire D. C. , Vinhas L. , Lyra L. G. C. , Lyra A. C.
Published: May 2013

Background

The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of animal and vegetable protein supplementation on health‐related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to investigate clinical and nutritional variables related to quality of life in these patients.

Methods

One hundred and forty patients infected with HCV were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the Soy Group (SG; n = 72), where patients received a soy supplement diet and the Casein Group (CG; n = 68), where patients received casein as a supplement. Anthropometric, biochemical and clinical assessments were performed in all patients, and the Short‐Form Health Survey was applied at baseline and 12 weeks after study initiation.

Results

Before supplementation, poor HRQL scores were associated with female sex (P = 0.004) and advanced fibrosis (F3/F4; P = 0.04). Reduced HRQL scores were correlated with age (r = −0.263; P = 0.002), serum albumin levels (r = 0.245; P = 0.004), lean mass (r = 0.301; P < 0.0001) and body fat percentage (r = −0.262; P = 0.002). After 12 weeks of intervention, patients in both supplementation groups showed significantly increased HRQL scores, with no difference being observed between the SG and the CG.

Conclusions

Nutritional therapy with either soybean or casein supplementation improved quality of life in patients infected with HCV. Quality of life was influenced by anthropometric, biochemical, clinical and sociodemographic factors in patients with HCV before nutritional supplementation.
Regrowth of transected retinal ganglion cell axons despite persistent astrogliosis in the lizard (Gallotia galloti)
Authors: del Mar Romero‐Alemán María , Monzón‐Mayor Maximina , Santos Elena , Yanes Carmen M.
Published: May 2013

We analysed the astroglia response that is concurrent with spontaneous axonal regrowth after optic nerve (ON) transection in the lizard Gallotia galloti. At different post‐lesional time points (0.5, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months) we used conventional electron microscopy and specific markers for astrocytes [glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vimentin (Vim), sex‐determining region Y‐box‐9 (Sox9), paired box‐2 (Pax2)¸ cluster differentiation‐44 (CD44)] and for proliferating cells (PCNA). The experimental retina showed a limited glial response since the increase of gliofilaments was not significant when compared with controls, and proliferating cells were undetectable. Conversely, PCNA+ cells populated the regenerating ON, optic tract (OTr) and ventricular wall of both the hypothalamus and optic tectum (OT). Subpopulations of these PCNA+ cells were identified as GFAP+ and Vim+ reactive astrocytes and radial glia. Reactive astrocytes up‐regulated Vim at 1 month post‐lesion, and both Vim and GFAP at 12 months post‐lesion in the ON‐OTr, indicating long‐term astrogliosis. They also expressed Pax2, Sox9 and CD44 in the ON, and Sox9 in the OTr. Concomitantly, persistent tissue cavities and disorganised regrowing fibre bundles reaching the OT were observed. Our ultrastructural data confirm abundant gliofilaments in reactive astrocytes joined by desmosomes. Remarkably, they also accumulated myelin debris and lipid droplets until late stages, indicating their participation in myelin removal. These data suggest that persistent mammalian‐like astrogliosis in the adult lizard ON contributes to a permissive structural scaffold for long‐term axonal regeneration and provides a useful model to study the molecular mechanisms involved in these beneficial neuron–glia interactions.
The impact structured patient assessment frameworks have on patient care: an integrative review
Authors: Munroe Belinda , Curtis Kate , Considine Julie , Buckley Thomas
Published: May 2013

Aims and objectives

To evaluate structured patient assessment frameworks' impact on patient care.

Background

Accurate patient assessment is imperative to determine the status and needs of the patient and the delivery of appropriate patient care. Nurses must be highly skilled in conducting timely and accurate patient assessments to overcome environmental obstacles and deliver quality and safe patient care. A structured approach to patient assessment is widely accepted in everyday clinical practice, yet little is known about the impact structured patient assessment frameworks have on patient care.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

An electronic database search was conducted using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System, PubMed and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. The reference sections of textbooks and journal articles on patient assessment were manually searched for further studies. A comprehensive peer review screening process was undertaken. Research studies were selected that evaluated the impact structured patient assessment frameworks have on patient care. Studies were included if frameworks were designed for use by paramedics, nurses or medical practitioners working in prehospital or acute in‐hospital settings.

Results

Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. There were no studies that evaluate the impact of a generic nursing assessment framework on patient care. The use of a structured patient assessment framework improved clinician performance of patient assessment. Limited evidence was found to support other aspects of patient care including documentation, communication, care implementation, patient and clinician satisfaction, and patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Structured patient assessment frameworks enhance clinician performance of patient assessment and hold the potential to improve patient care and outcomes; however, further research is required to address these evidence gaps, particularly in nursing.

Relevance to clinical practice

Acute care clinicians should consider using structured patient assessment frameworks in clinical practice to enhance their performance of patient assessment.
Polychlorinated biphenyls disrupt cell division and tip growth in two species of fucoid algae
Authors: Hable Whitney E. , Nguyen Xuan
Published: May 2013

Environmental contaminants, including poly‐chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are enriched in coastal sediments, and despite a 1977 moratorium by theUnitedStatesEnvironmentalProtectionAgency on the production ofPCBs, levels remain high, more so near former industrial plants. The effects of these contaminants on sessile species in the intertidal zone, particularly nonanimal species such as the ubiquitous fucoid brown algae, are not well known. We investigated the developmental effects of chronicPCBtreatment beginning at fertilization on two species of marine rockweed,Fucus vesiculosusLinnaeus andSilvetia compressa(J.Agardh) E.Serrão, T.O.Cho, S.M.Boo & Brawley. A mixture of the most widely usedPCBcongeners, Aroclors 1221, 1242, and 1254, was delivered at concentrations well below levels found in contaminated sediments, and resulted in severely delayed mitosis and cytokinesis in both species. InF. vesiculosus, this delay was accompanied by abnormal spindle morphology.PCBtreatment also dramatically slowed or arrested rhizoid growth after 2–4 d, and by 7 dF. vesiculosusembryos were dead; in contrast, polar secretion of adhesive, germination, and photopolar germination were not affected. The dramatic delay in the first cell division and reduction in tip growth within the first week of development are likely to compromiseS. compressa'sability to reproduce and establish new generations. Thus, the data presented here suggest thatPCBs still present in coastal sediments may be inhibiting recruitment in these species. Moreover, as sediment dredging causes temporary spikes inPCBconcentrations, these kinds of bioremediation steps may exacerbate the disruption of fucoid development.
Statistics: using regression models
Authors: Scott M. , Flaherty D. , Currall J.
Published: May 2013

In a previous article, we asked the simple question “Are we related?” and used scatterplots and correlation coefficients to provide an answer. In this article, we will take this question and reword it to “How are we related?” and will demonstrate the statistical techniques required to reach a conclusion.
Functional redundancy and stability in plant communities
Authors: Pillar Valério D. , Blanco Carolina C. , Müller Sandra C. , Sosinski Enio E. , Joner Fernando , Duarte Leandro D. S.
Published: May 2013

Questions

Functional redundancy in assemblages may insure ecosystem processes after perturbation potentially causing temporary or permanent local species extinctions. Yet, functional redundancy has only been inferred by indirect evidence or measured by methods that may not be the most appropriate. Here, we apply an existing method to measure functional redundancy, which is the fraction of species diversity not expressed by functional diversity, to assess whether functional redundancy affects community resilience after disturbance.

Location

Subtropical grassland, south Brazil (30°05′46″S, 51°40′37″W).

Method

Species traits and community composition were assessed in quadrats before grazing and after community recovery. Grazing intensity (G) was measured in each quadrat. We used traits linked to grazing intensity to define functional redundancy (FR) as the difference of Gini–Simpson index of species diversity (D) and Rao's quadratic entropy (Q). Also, with the same traits, we defined community functional stability (S) as the similarity between trait‐based community composition before grazing and 47 and 180 d after grazing ending. Using path analysis we assessed different postulated causal models linking functional diversity (Q), functional redundancy (FR), grazing intensity (G) and community‐weighted mean traits to community stability (S) under grazing.

Results

Path analysis revealed the most valid causal model FR → S ← G, with a significant positive path coefficient for FR → S and a marginally significant negative one for S ← G. Since FR and G were independent in their covariation and in their effects on S, the model discriminated community resistance to grazing (the effect of G on S) from community resilience after grazing caused by functional redundancy (indicated by the effect of FR on S).

Conclusion

We show that expressing functional redundancy mathematically is a useful tool for testing causal models linking diversity to community stability. The results support the conclusion that functional redundancy enhanced community resilience, therefore corroborating the insurance hypothesis.