bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronary Sinus and Fossa Ovalis Ablation: Effect on Interatrial Conduction and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: OTT PETER , KIRK MALCOLM M. , KOO CHARLES , HE DING SHENG , BHATTACHARYA BAISHALI , BUXTON ALFRED
Published: January 2007

Background: Interatrial conduction occurs via discrete pathways along the coronary sinus musculature, fossa ovalis region, and Bachman's bundle. We assessed the feasibility of altering interatrial conduction by selectively ablating two of these conduction pathways using a novel mesh electrode ablation catheter.

Methods: Circular radiofrequency energy catheter ablation lesions were created in the proximal coronary sinus in four dogs and in both the fossa ovalis and the proximal coronary sinus regions in seven pigs. Interatrial conduction was assessed by analyzing intracardiac electrogram and noncontact isopotential mapping data. Inducibility of atrial fibrillation was assessed before and after ablation (in six pigs).

Results: Ablation lesions in the proximal coronary sinus eliminated interatrial conduction along the coronary sinus musculature in four dogs and five of seven pigs. Ablation lesions in the fossa ovalis region eliminated interatrial conduction via midseptal pathways in six of seven pigs. Atrial fibrillation, inducible in five of seven pigs at baseline, was rendered noninducible in all five. There was no adverse effect on AV nodal conduction.

Conclusions: (1) Using a novel mesh electrode ablation catheter, we were able to ablate interatrial conduction pathways along the proximal coronary sinus and fossa ovalis regions. (2) This altered interatrial conduction and altered atrial fibrillation inducibility and maintenance. (3) Catheter ablation of interatrial conduction pathways may be useful in the therapy of atrial fibrillation.
Anemia management in chronic kidney disease
Authors: GILLESPIE Barbara S. , INRIG Jula K. , SZCZECH Lynda A.
Published: January 2007

Anemia is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to a state of erythropoietin deficiency. Erythropoietin therapy has been used for approximately 20 years to correct anemia in CKD and to improve both subjective and objective outcomes. Guidelines that establish a hemoglobin (Hb) goal for anemia correction in CKD patients are largely based on observational data. Controversy still exists, however, because outcomes have not been consistent with various degrees of anemia correction. The number of prospective randomized trials investigating the effects of anemia correction on cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality in CKD patients, an already high‐risk group, is limited. With respect to improving CV outcomes in the CKD population, the currently available trial data caution against raising Hb levels in CKD patients to approach more “normal” physiologic ranges. The disappointing experience with the trial data must be weighed against the beneficial associations of erythropoietin therapy that have been generated from observational data. Establishing the ideal target Hb ranges for anemia correction in CKD patients remains a dynamic process and leaves many gray areas to be further elucidated. Here, we present a case that underscores the need to consider the study design when reviewing the data at a population level in order to determine what is most appropriate for our patient.
Fluid balance, dry weight, and blood pressure in dialysis
Authors: CHARRA Bernard
Published: January 2007

The total amount of sodium present in the body controls the extracellular volume. In advanced renal failure, sodium balance becomes positive and the extracellular volume expands. This leads to hypertension, and vascular changes that lead to adverse cardiovascular consequences in dialysis patients. Controlling the body sodium content and the extracellular volume allows one to better control hypertension and its consequences. This can be achieved by reducing the sodium input (sodium dietary restriction and reasonably low sodium dialysate) and/or by increasing the sodium output (ultrafiltration by convection). The discontinuous nature of hemodialysis causes saw‐tooth volume fluctuations. This has led to the concept of dry weight (DW), a crucial component of dialysis adequacy. Assessment and achievement of DW is feasible on pure clinical grounds. But its relative lack of accuracy (and the physicians' progressive lack of interest in bedside examination) has led to several nonclinical methods of assessing DW in an effort to improve the assessment of fluid status in dialysis patients.
Multiple myeloma and hypercoagulability leading to internal jugular vein thrombosis in a dialysis patient
Authors: PRATAP Balaji , GUPTA Punit , KUMAR Praveen , ABRAHAM Georgi , SANTHANAM Ramalakshmi
Published: January 2007

A 68‐year‐old male patient with end‐stage renal failure on maintenance hemodialysis using a right internal jugular dual‐lumen catheter developed thrombosis of the internal jugular vein with extension into the superior vena cava after removal of the catheter. As he developed a lower backache with MRI finding of disease of the D11 and D12 vertebrae, a bone biopsy performed showed multiple myeloma. Anticoagulant therapy led to recanalization of the thrombosed veins.
An evaluation of blood volume changes during ultrafiltration pulses and natriuretic peptides in the assessment of dry weight in hemodialysis patients
Authors: VAN DE POL Anouk C. M. , FRENKEN Leon A. , MORET Karin , BAUMGARTEN Ruben , VAN DER SANDE Frank M. , BEERENHOUT Charles M. , KOOMAN Jeroen P. , LEUNISSEN Karel M.
Published: January 2007

Changes in blood volume (BV) during dialysis as well as plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N‐terminal (NT) pro‐BNP levels are possible tools to assess dry weight in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The aim of the study was to compare these parameters with other non‐invasive techniques used to assess dry weight in HD patients, and to study their relation with intradialytic hypotension (IDH) and the presence of cardiovascular disease BV changes during HD, both during regular dialysis and during an ultrafiltration pulse, plasma levels of NT pro‐BNP and BNP, and vena cava diameter index (VCDI) were assessed in a cohort of 66 HD patients, which was subdivided according to tertiles of total body water (TBW) corrected for body weight, assessed by bioimpedance analysis. Parameters were also related to the presence of IDH and history of cardiovascular disease. The decline in BV during regular dialysis and during an ultrafiltration pulse, as well as VCDI and BNP were significantly different between the tertiles of normalized TBW, but refill after the ultrafiltration pulse and NT pro‐BNP were not. Only VCDI and the decline in BV during regular dialysis were significantly different between patients with or without IDH. Vena cava diameter index, BNP, and NT pro‐BNP were significantly higher in patients with cardiovascular disease. Using bioimpedance as the reference method, changes in BV, either during regular dialysis or during an ultrafiltration pulse, as well as VCDI and BNP are all indicative of hydration state in dialysis patients, but refill after an ultrafiltration pulse is not. Only VCDI and BV changes were related to IDH. The presence of cardiovascular disease appears to influence both VCDI as well as BNP.
Quantitative analysis of convective dose in hemofiltration and hemodiafiltration: “Predilution” vs. “postdilution” reinfusion
Authors: COLUSSI Giacomo , FRATTINI Gianmaria
Published: January 2007

In hemofiltration (HF) and hemodiafiltration (HDF), removal of medium and high‐molecular‐weight solutes is greatly enhanced by convective mechanisms as compared with simple diffusion; increasing convective flows may allow greater removal rates of these solutes. Use of “predilution” (pre‐H[D]F) may allow higher ultrafiltration rates than the “postdilution” mode (post‐H[D]F); yet, the dilution of plasma water may have unpredictable effects on “endogenous” water convection. We have applied a mathematical analysis to evaluate and compare endogenous water convective flow rates in pre‐H(D)F vs. post‐H(D)F. Endogenous plasma water recovered in ultrafiltrate was calculated according to patient (hematocrit, total protein level) and session parameters (blood flow, ultrafiltration rate, programmed weight loss), in absolute terms and as a fraction of endogenous plasma water delivery to the filter. Maximally efficient post‐H(D)F was modelled according to a preset postfilter hematocrit or filtration fraction. Nomograms were constructed expressing endogenous water convective fluxes in relation to parameters of interest (ultrafiltration rate, blood flow, hematocrit) with both post‐H(D)F and pre‐H(D)F, and “efficiency” of pre‐H(D)F vs. post‐H(D)F (as the ratio of endogenous water convective flow rate with the 2 techniques) as a function of the ultrafiltration/reinfusion rate. In post‐H(D)F, the model predicts maximal ultrafiltration rates within the limits of a preset hemoconcentration at the filter outlet; additionally, the model allows to calculate ultrafiltration/reinfusion quantities to be set in pre‐H(D)F to equal and overcome maximal convective efficiency of post‐H(D)F. This “equivalence” ultrafiltration rate may greatly vary according to patient's hematocrit and blood flow, so that the ultrafiltrate‐reinfusate volume available in the system dictates, in any patient, which mode of reinfusion may attain higher “endogenous” convective flow rates. Pre‐H(D)F may allow higher fractional and absolute “endogenous” convective flow rates as compared with post‐H(D)F, provided that adequate amounts of reinfusate are available. For lower reinfusate volumes than “equivalence” values, post‐H(D)F remains a better option.
Short‐ and long‐term periodontal evaluation of impacted canines treated with a closed surgical–orthodontic approach
Authors: Crescini Aldo , Nieri Michele , Buti Jacopo , Baccetti Tiziano , Mauro Saverio , Pini Prato Giovan Paolo
Published: January 2007

Aim: The aims were to evaluate and compare the periodontal status of unilateral impacted maxillary canines treated by a combined surgical–orthodontic technique with that of normally erupted controlateral canines.

Material and Methods: One hundred and twenty‐five patients, consecutively enrolled, aged between 12.8 and 52.0 years, 31 males and 94 females, presented one impacted maxillary canine (test group) and the controlateral canine normally erupted (control group). All cases were treated by a surgical flap and orthodontic traction directed to the centre of the crest and evaluated periodontally at the end of treatment. Fifty‐eight patients were followed up for a mean of 3.4 ± 0.5 years. Pocket depth (PD), keratinized tissue width (KT) and gingival recession were recorded. Multilevel models were created.

Results: At the end of the orthodontic treatment, PD and KT of the 125 impacted canines were slightly, but statistically significantly higher than controls. Only one treated canine showed a recession (1 mm). At follow‐up (58 patients), this difference decreased and the two groups were not significantly different.

Conclusions: The combined technique permitted the traction of the impacted canines to the centre of the crest, thus simulating a physiological eruption pattern. Correct alignment and good periodontal status were obtained.
Effect of platelet‐rich plasma on the healing of intra‐bony defects treated with a natural bone mineral and a collagen membrane
Authors: Döri Ferenc , Huszár Tamás , Nikolidakis Dimitris , Arweiler Nicole B. , Gera István , Sculean Anton
Published: January 2007

Background: Regenerative periodontal therapy with a combination of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP)+a natural bone mineral (NBM)+guided tissue regeneration (GTR) has been shown to result in significantly higher probing depth reductions and clinical attachment‐level gains compared with treatment with open flap debridement alone. However, at present, it is unknown to what extent the use of PRP may additionally enhance the clinical outcome of the therapy compared with treatment with NBM+GTR.

Aim: To clinically compare treatment of deep intra‐bony defects with NBM+PRP+GTR with NBM+GTR.

Material and Methods: Thirty patients suffering from advanced periodontal disease, and each of whom displayed one advanced intra‐bony defect were randomly treated with a combination of either NBM+PRP+collagen membrane (GTR) or NBM+GTR. The following clinical parameters were evaluated at baseline and at 1 year after treatment: plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing depth (PD), gingival recession and clinical attachment level (CAL). CAL changes were used as the primary outcome variable.

Results: No differences in any of the investigated parameters were observed at baseline between the two groups. Healing was uneventful in all patients. At 1 year after therapy, the sites treated with NBM+PRP+GTR showed a reduction in mean PD from 8.9±2.3 mm to 3.4±2.0 mm (p<0.001) and a change in mean CAL from 10.9±2.2 mm to 6.4±1.8 mm (p<0.001). In the group treated with NBM+GTR, the mean PD was reduced from 8.9±2.5 mm to 3.4±2.3 mm (p<0.001), and the mean CAL changed from 11.1±2.5 mm to 6.5±2.3 mm (p<0.001). In both groups, all sites gained at least 3 mm of CAL. CAL gains of 4 mm were measured in 80% (i.e. in 12 out of 15 defects) of the cases treated with NBM+PRP+GTR and in 87% (i.e. in 13 out of 15 defects) treated with NBM+GTR. No statistically significant differences in any of the investigated parameters were observed between the two groups.

Conclusions: Within its limits, the present study has shown that (i) at 1 year after regenerative surgery with both NBM+PRP+GTR and NBM+GTR, significant PD reductions and CAL gains were found, and (ii) the use of PRP has failed to improve the results obtained with NBM+GTR.
Prognostic model for tooth survival in patients treated for periodontitis
Authors: Faggion Clóvis M. , Petersilka Gregor , Lange Dieter E. , Gerss Joachim , Flemmig Thomas F.
Published: January 2007

Background: In patients with periodontitis, a quantitative prognostic assessment is needed in order to make evidence‐based decisions about retaining teeth or extracting and replacing them with a dental prosthesis.

Methods: One hundred and ninety eight patients receiving active periodontal treatment in 1989 or 1990 and complying with supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) over an average of 11.8±2.3 years were included in the study. A generalized linear model was established and fitted via generalized estimating equations to identify predictors for tooth loss during SPT.

Results: Of the 4559 teeth present at baseline, 166 (3.6%) were extracted during active treatment and 249 (5.5%) during SPT. Baseline findings of diabetes mellitus (OR=4.17), reduced alveolar bone levels (OR=1.04 for each 1% increment), increased tooth mobility (III versus 0: OR=5.52), multiple roots (OR=1.82), and non‐vital pulp (OR=2.24) were significant (p<0.05) predictors for tooth loss during SPT. Based on these parameters, a prognostic model was constructed that provides estimates of tooth survival probability when periodontal therapy is rendered.

Conclusion: Using a multivariate approach, a prognostic model was developed that may be of value for clinical decision making.
Effects of periodontal therapy on serum C‐reactive protein, sE‐selectin, and tumor necrosis factor‐α secretion by peripheral blood‐derived macrophages in diabetes. A pilot study
Authors: Lalla E. , Kaplan S. , Yang J. , Roth G. A. , Papapanou P. N. , Greenberg S.
Published: January 2007

Background and Objective:  Diabetes is associated with an increased risk for vascular disease and periodontitis. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of periodontal treatment in diabetes with respect to alterations in the pro‐inflammatory potential of peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Material and Methods:  Ten patients with diabetes and moderate to severe periodontitis received full‐mouth subgingival debridement. Blood samples for serum/plasma and mononuclear cell isolation were collected prior to and 4 wk after therapy. Mononuclear cells were analyzed by flow cytometry and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide or ionomycin/phorbol ester to determine the pro‐inflammatory capacity of macrophages and lymphocytes, respectively.

Results:  Following periodontal treatment, all patients demonstrated a significant improvement in clinical periodontal status (p < 0.05), despite only modest reduction in subgingival bacterial load or homologous serum immunoglobulin G titers. CD14+ blood monocytes decreased by 47% (p < 0.05), and the percentage of macrophages spontaneously releasing tumor necrosis factor‐α decreased by 78% (p < 0.05). There were no significant changes in the capacity of lymphocytes to secrete interferon‐γ. Among a number of serum inflammatory markers tested, high‐sensitivity‐C‐reactive protein significantly decreased by 37% (p < 0.01) and soluble E‐selectin decreased by 16.6% (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  These data suggest a reduced tendency for monocyte/macrophage‐driven inflammation with periodontal therapy and a potential impact on atherosclerosis‐related complications in diabetic individuals.
Local narrowband UVB phototherapy vs. local PUVA in the treatment of chronic hand eczema
Authors: Sezer Engin , Etikan Ilker
Published: January 2007

Background: Hand eczema is a chronic skin disorder characterized by a poor response to conventional therapies. Although local PUVA has been proven to be effective in the treatment of chronic hand eczema, little is known about the efficacy and safety of local narrowband UVB (TL‐01) for this condition. The aim of our study was to compare the efficacy and safety of local narrowband UVB phototherapy with paint‐PUVA in patients with chronic hand eczema of dry and dyshidrotic types unresponsive to conventional therapies.

Patients/methods: Fifteen patients (nine men and six women) with chronic hand eczema of dry and dyshidrotic types was included in this prospective, comparative study based on a left to right comparison pattern. The treatments were administered with local narrowband UVB irradiation on one hand and local paint‐PUVA using 0.1% 8‐methoxypsoralen gel on the other hand three times a week over a 9‐week period. The NB‐UVB irradiation was administered using a local NB‐UVB system equipped with TL‐01 lamps. The initial dose was 150 mJ/cm2 for each patient. An increasing percentile dose schedule based on an increase of 20% was used in every session, until a final dose of 2000 mJ/cm2 was reached. Evaluation of clinical scores was carried out every 3 weeks during the treatment period.

Results: Twelve of the 15 recruited patients completed the study. There was a statistically significant decrease in the mean clinical score at the third, sixth and nineth week in both groups. The difference in clinical response between the two treatment modalities was not statistically significant at the end of the 9‐week treatment period. In the narrowband UVB‐treated side, the tolerance of all the patients to the treatment was good all patients well‐tolerated the treatment with the exception of mild xerosis that responded to topical emollients.

Conclusion: Local narrowband UVB phototherapy regimen is as effective as paint‐PUVA therapy in patients with chronic hand eczema of dry and dyshidrotic types.
Comparison of broadband UVB, narrowband UVB, broadband UVA and UVA1 on activation of apoptotic pathways in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Tuchinda Chanisada , Lim Henry W. , Strickland Faith M. , Guzmán Esther A. , Wong Henry K.
Published: January 2007

Background/purpose: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an important therapy for immune‐mediated cutaneous diseases. Activation of early apoptotic pathways may play a role in the clinical effectiveness. Different UV wavelengths have different efficacy for various diseases, but it remains unclear whether the ability to induce apoptosis differs with respect to the wavelength, and whether they induce apoptosis through the same mechanism. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of different UV wavelengths that are used clinically on normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

Methods: PBMCs were treated with UV‐light sources broadband UVB, narrowband UVB, broadband UVA and UVA1. Initiation of apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry by staining–treated cells for activated caspases. Immunoblots were performed to measure for cleaved caspase‐3, ‐8, ‐9, cytochrome c, Bcl 2‐interacting domain and poly‐(ADP ribose) polymerase cleavage.

Results: We demonstrate that all the UV radiation sources induced caspase activation in a dose‐and time‐dependent manner. Components of both the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis were activated by all of the UV wavelengths tested, but differed in the level of energy needed for activation.

Conclusion: The greater effectiveness of UVB on initiation of apoptotic pathway suggests that apoptosis may play a role in the clinical efficacy of UVB‐responsive inflammatory cutaneous diseases.
Psoralen plus UVA vs. UVB‐311 nm for the treatment of lichen planus
Authors: Wackernagel Alexandra , Legat Franz J. , Hofer Angelika , Quehenberger Franz , Kerl Helmut , Wolf Peter
Published: January 2007

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the short‐ and long‐term therapeutic efficacy of psoralen plus UVA (PUVA) vs. UVB‐311 nm in the treatment of patients with disseminated lichen planus.

Methods: A computerized data bank search and chart review revealed that data from a total of 28 patients, including 15 patients [11 women, four men; mean age 47 years (range, 16–65 years)] treated between 1998 and 2004 with PUVA and 13 patients [10 women, three men; mean age 51 years (range, 19–69 years)] treated with UVB‐311 nm, were available at our institution for retrospective analysis.

Results: All 15 patients (100%) treated with oral PUVA had a complete [n=10 (67%)] or partial [n=5 (33%)] clinical response, whereas 10 of 13 patients (77%) treated with UVB‐311 nm showed complete [n=4 (31%)] or partial [n=6 (46%)] clinical response. Statistical analysis revealed that the initial response to PUVA was superior to that of UVB‐311 nm (P=0.0426; Wilcoxon's exact test). There were no statistically significant differences between the PUVA‐ and UVB‐311 nm‐treated patient groups with regard to mean therapy duration (10.5 vs. 8.2 weeks; P=0.1107; unpaired, two‐tailed Student's t test) or mean number of treatment exposures (25.9 vs. 22.5; P=0.1775). After a mean follow‐up period of 20.5 months (range, 2–49 months) and 35.7 months (range, 3–60 months), respectively, disease recurrence or deterioration was observed in seven of 15 PUVA‐treated patients (47%) and three of 10 UVB‐311 nm‐treated patients (30%). Kaplan–Meier lifetime table analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between the 2 treatment groups in terms of sustained overall (i.e., partial and complete) clinical response rate (P=0.8593; log‐rank test).

Conclusions: Even though oral PUVA produces a better initial clinical response rate, both oral PUVA and UVB‐311 nm are effective treatments for lichen planus that produce similar long‐term outcomes.
Allergic contact dermatitis to methyl aminolevulinate (Metvix®) cream used in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Harries Matthew J. , Street Gill , Gilmour Elizabeth , Rhodes Lesley E. , Beck Michael H.
Published: January 2007

Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is increasingly used in the treatment of superficial skin malignancies including actinic keratosis, Bowen's disease and superficial basal cell carcinoma. Contact allergy to the prodrug is rarely reported. We report a case of allergic contact dermatitis to methyl aminolevulinate cream used in PDT.
Leukocytoclastic vasculitis in urticaria induced by sun exposure
Authors: Stinco Giuseppe , Di Gaetano Luca , Rizzi Claudio , Patrone Pasquale
Published: January 2007

Background: Solar urticaria manifests itself immediately after solar or artificial light exposure and disappears a little later. Histopathologic findings of solar urticaria are essentially identical to those of classic urticaria.

Case report: We report a 41‐year‐old man who developed urticarial lesions some hours after sunlight exposure, which resolved after approximately 1 week. Histologic examination of the lesions evidenced a leukocytoclastic vasculitis.

Conclusion: In a literature review we found one case of solar urticaria with histologic aspects of leukocytoclastic vasculitis.
Immunoprofile of focal lymphocytic infiltration in minor salivary glands of healthy individuals
Authors: Yarom N , Dayan D , Buchner A , Vered M
Published: January 2007

Aim:  To characterize the immunohistochemical profile of the inflammatory cells included in the focal lymphocytic infiltration in the minor salivary glands of healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods:  Tissue samples of the labial and palatal salivary glands from 46 postmortem subjects, demonstrating the presence of focal lymphocytic infiltration were quantitatively evaluated for the presence of T‐ and B‐cell lymphocytes, plasma cells and macrophages by immunohistochemical and morphometric methods.

Results:  B‐cell lymphocytes, the predominant cell population in labial (67.5%) and palatal salivary glands (60.8%), were more frequent than T‐cell lymphocytes in both glands (P < 0.001). Among the T‐cell lymphocytes, CD4‐positive cells were significantly more prevalent than the CD8‐positive cells (P < 0.001). Plasma cells were almost absent, comprising only 0.01% of the focal lymphocytic infiltration cells of the labial and palatal salivary glands.

Conclusions:  Focal lymphocytic infiltration in the samples of the salivary glands obtained from healthy individuals is devoid of plasma cells. This can serve as an additional means to differentiate between focal lymphocytic infiltration in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, in which plasma cells are abundant, and focal lymphocytic infiltration in individuals with other causes of focal sialadenitis.
Biochemical characterization of rice trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatases supports distinctive functions of these plant enzymes
Authors: Shima Shuhei , Matsui Hirokazu , Tahara Satoshi , Imai Ryozo
Published: January 2007

Substantial levels of trehalose accumulate in bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates, where it serves as a storage carbohydrate or as a protectant against environmental stresses. In higher plants, trehalose is detected at fairly low levels; therefore, a regulatory or signaling function has been proposed for this molecule. In many organisms, trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase is the enzyme governing the final step of trehalose biosynthesis. Here we report that OsTPP1 and OsTPP2 are the two major trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase genes expressed in vegetative tissues of rice. Similar to results obtained from our previous OsTPP1 study, complementation analysis of a yeast trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase mutant and activity measurement of the recombinant protein demonstrated that OsTPP2 encodes a functional trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase enzyme. OsTPP2 expression is transiently induced in response to chilling and other abiotic stresses. Enzymatic characterization of recombinant OsTPP1 and OsTPP2 revealed stringent substrate specificity for trehalose 6‐phosphate and about 10 times lower Km values for trehalose 6‐phosphate as compared with trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase enzymes from microorganisms. OsTPP1 and OsTPP2 also clearly contrasted with microbial enzymes, in that they are generally unstable, almost completely losing activity when subjected to heat treatment at 50 °C for 4 min. These characteristics of rice trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase enzymes are consistent with very low cellular substrate concentration and tightly regulated gene expression. These data also support a plant‐specific function of trehalose biosynthesis in response to environmental stresses.
Transcriptional regulation of the desferrioxamine gene cluster of Streptomyces coelicolor is mediated by binding of DmdR1 to an iron box in the promoter of the desA gene
Authors: Tunca Sedef , Barreiro Carlos , Sola‐Landa Alberto , Coque Juan José R. , Martín Juan F.
Published: January 2007

Streptomyces coelicolor and Streptomyces pilosus produce desferrioxamine siderophores which are encoded by the desABCD gene cluster. S. pilosus is used for the production of desferrioxamine B which is utilized in human medicine. We report the deletion of the desA gene encoding a lysine decarboxylase in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2). The ΔdesA mutant was able to grow on lysine as the only carbon and nitrogen source but its desferrioxamine production was blocked, confirming that the l‐lysine decarboxylase encoded by desA is a dedicated enzyme committing l‐lysine to desferrioxamine biosynthesis. Production of desferrioxamine was restored by complementation with the whole wild‐type desABCD cluster, but not by desA alone, because of a polar effect of the desA gene replacement on expression of the downstream des genes. The transcription pattern of the desABCD cluster in S. coelicolor showed that all four genes were coordinately induced under conditions of iron deprivation. The transcription start point of the desA gene was identified by primer extension analysis at a thymine located 62 nucleotides upstream of the translation start codon. The −10 region of the desA promoter overlaps the 19‐nucleotide palindromic iron box sequence known to be involved in iron regulation in Streptomyces. Binding of DmdR1 divalent metal‐dependent regulatory protein to the desA promoter region of both S. coelicolor and S. pilosus was shown using electrophoretic mobility‐shift assays, validating the conclusion that iron regulation of the desABCD cluster is mediated by the regulatory protein DmdR1. We conclude that the genes involved in desferrioxamine production are under transcriptional control exerted by the DmdR1 regulator in the presence of iron and are expressed under conditions of iron limitation.
High and complementary expression patterns of alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases in the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Westerlund Marie , Belin Andrea Carmine , Felder Michael R. , Olson Lars , Galter Dagmar
Published: January 2007

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous movement disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of dopamine neurons in substantia nigra. We have previously presented genetic evidence for the possible involvement of alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases (ADH; ALDH) by identifying genetic variants in ADH1C and ADH4 that associate with PD. The absence of the corresponding mRNA species in the brain led us to the hypothesis that one cause of PD could be defects in the defense systems against toxic aldehydes in the gastrointestinal tract. We investigated cellular expression of Adh1, Adh3, Adh4 and Aldh1 mRNA along the rodent GI tract. Using oligonucleotide in situ hybridization probes, we were able to resolve the specific distribution patterns of closely related members of the ADH family. In both mice and rats, Adh4 is transcribed in the epithelium of tongue, esophagus and stomach, whereas Adh1 was active from stomach to rectum in mice, and in duodenum, colon and rectum in rats. Adh1 and Adh4 mRNAs were present in the mouse gastric mucosa in nonoverlapping patterns, with Adh1 in the gastric glands and Adh4 in the gastric pits. Aldh1 was found in epithelial cells from tongue to jejunum in rats and from esophagus to colon in mice. Adh3 hybridization revealed low mRNA levels in all tissues investigated. The distribution and known physiological functions of the investigated ADHs and Aldh1 are compatible with a role in a defense system, protecting against alcohols, aldehydes and formaldehydes as well as being involved in retinoid metabolism.
Protective Effect of Hydrocortisone on Iminodipropionitrile‐Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Tariq Mohammad , Khan Haseeb Ahmad , Siddiquei Mairaj M. , Al Moutaery Khalaf , Al Deeb Saleh
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Occupational and environmental exposure of synthetic nitriles is of potential relevance to human health. Iminodipropionitrile (IDPN), a prototype nitrile toxin, has been shown to produce dyskinetic syndrome in rodents. This study reports the effect of concomitant exposure of rats to hydrocortisone and IDPN on behavioural abnormalities namely excitation, circling and chorea (ECC) syndrome. Four groups of female Wistar rats were given hydrocortisone (0, 10, 30 and 60 mg/kg, gavage, for 10 days) 30 min. before IDPN (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally for 8 days). Two additional groups of rats were treated with either saline (control group) or 60 mg/kg of hydrocortisone (drug alone group). The animals were observed for neurobehavioural abnormalities including dyskinetic head movement, circling, tail hanging, air righting reflex and contact inhibition of righting reflex. After behavioural studies, the animals were killed, and the discrete brain regions and temporal bones were collected for biochemistry and inner ear histopathology, respectively. Hydrocortisone significantly and dose dependently attenuated the incidence and severity of IDPN‐induced behavioural syndrome. Administration of hydrocortisone (60 mg/kg) alone significantly increased glutathione (GSH) levels in olfactory bulb and striatum, whereas IDPN alone significantly reduced GSH levels in olfactory bulb, striatum and hippocampus. Hydrocortisone (60 mg/kg) significantly compensated IDPN‐induced depletions of GSH in different brain regions. Hydrocortisone also protected the animals against IDPN‐induced vestibular hair cell degeneration. The protective effect of hydrocortisone may be attributed to its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Effect of Honey on CYP3A4, CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 Enzyme Activity in Healthy Human Volunteers
Authors: Tushar Tewari , Vinod Thomas , Rajan Sundaram , Shashindran Chanolean , Adithan Chandrasekaran
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Honey is a common food supplement but not many studies have studied honey and drug interaction. This study investigates the influence of 7 days of honey administration on the activity of CYP3A4, CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 drug‐metabolizing enzymes in healthy volunteers by using appropriate biomarker and probe drugs. A within‐group pharmacokinetic study was done in 12 healthy volunteers. Urine samples (0–8 hr) were collected after administration of 30 mg of oral dextromethorphan (probe drug for CYP2D6) for analysis of dextromethorphan and dextrorphan. A plasma sample (4 hr) was collected after administration of 200 mg of oral proguanil (probe drug for CYP2C19) for the analysis of proguanil and cycloguanil. Urine samples (0–24 hr) were collected for the analysis of 6β‐hydroxycortisol (biomarker for CYP3A4). The volunteers were administered honey for 7 days. Subsequently blood and urine samples were collected after drug dosing as before. These samples were analysed for drug and metabolite concentrations in urine and plasma using high performance liquid chromatography method. Seven days of honey administration resulted in statistically significant increase in 24‐hr urinary excretion of 6β‐hydroxycortisol. However, the metabolic ratios of dextromethorphan and proguanil were not significantly altered after 7 days of honey administration. Honey obtained from Western Ghats of southern India may induce CYP3A4 enzyme activity but not CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 enzyme activities.
Matrine Induces Apoptosis in Angiotensin II‐Stimulated Hyperplasia of Cardiac Fibroblasts: Effects on Bcl‐2/Bax Expression and Caspase‐3 Activation
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Baohua , Zhou Chenghui , Bi Yongyi
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  The present study was designed to assess the effect of matrine, an active component of Chinese traditional medicine, on angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced hyperplastic growth of cardiac fibroblasts in vitro. Cardiac fibroblasts were prepared from hearts of neonatal Kunming mice by collagenase disruption. Cultured cardiac fibroblasts were either not treated, treated with 0.1 µM Ang II, or matrine (2.0∼4.0 mM) plus Ang II for 12–72 hr. Cell morphology was monitored under an inverted phase contrast microscope. Number of cells was counted with a haemocytometer. Cell apoptosis was determined by propidium iodide/Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry. The cleaved caspase‐3 fragment expression, anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 and pro‐apoptotic Bax protein expressions were also studied. The results show that Ang II stimulation resulted in hyperplastic growth of cardiac fibroblasts. Matrine significantly, dose and time dependently inhibited Ang II‐induced cell proliferation. Matrine addition to the culture medium led to most cells being arrested in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, the fraction of cells in S phase was markedly decreased compared to control and Ang II alone groups. Cell apoptosis in matrine treatment group was markedly increased, accompanied by down‐regulation in Bcl‐2/Bax ratio and up‐regulation in cleaved caspase‐3 activity. These results suggest that matrine can induce apoptosis and thereby inhibit Ang II‐induced hyperplasic growth of cardiac fibroblasts. The regulations of matrine on Bcl‐2/Bax expression and caspase‐3 activation may be the pro‐apoptotic mechanisms involved.
Morphology-dependent trends of galaxy age with environment in A 901/2 seen with COMBO-17
Authors: Wolf C. , Gray M. E. , Aragón-Salamanca A. , Lane K. P. , Meisenheimer K.
Published: January 2007

We investigate correlations between galaxy age and environment in the A 901/2 supercluster for separate morphologies. Using COMBO-17 data, we define a sample of 530 galaxies, complete at MV− 5 log h < −18 on an area of 3.5 × 3.5 (Mpc h−1)2. We explore several age indicators including an extinction-corrected residual from the colour-magnitude relation. As a result, we find a clear trend of age with density for galaxies of all morphologies that include a spheroidal component, in the sense that galaxies in denser environments are older. This trend is not seen among Scd/Irr galaxies since they all have young ages. However, the trend among the other types is stronger for fainter galaxies. While we also see an expected age-morphology relation, we find no evidence for a morphology-density relation at fixed age.
TEXTURE EVALUATION BY UNIAXIAL COMPRESSION OF SOME SNACK FOODS
Authors: RAVI R. , ROOPA B.S. , BHATTACHARYA S.
Published: January 2007

Three ready‐to‐eat snacks, viz., deep‐fat fried batter drops made from thick chickpea flour batter, extruded corn balls and puffed rice, were subjected to uniaxial compression at four different compression speeds of 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 mm/s to obtain maximum force, fracture strain, slope of the force–deformation curve (instrumental firmness) and the number of major and minor peaks during compression. The instrumental firmness was dependent on the compression speed and was correlated (r = 0.656, P ≤ 0.001) with sensory firmness values. Fracture strain, maximum force and number of peaks increased with compression speed. The principal component analysis indicated that the low compression speed of 0.1 or 0.01 mm/s would be appropriate for testing crisp snack foods to have a detailed fractural behavior.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The specific application of the present findings lies in the determination of specific well‐defined instrumental texture parameters based on fracture characteristics of nonuniform snacks and similar products. The advantage of the proposed method is the ease in conducting experiments that require a texture testing machine to provide the force–deformation characteristics. The method is useful for quality control of snack foods, as well as for researchers who wish to have an in‐depth look at the fracture mechanism in combination with microstructural observations. A low compression speed of 0.1 or 0.01 mm/s is desirable to visualize minor, as well as major, fractures.
EFFECTS OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE ON TEXTURAL PROPERTIES OF CHINESE BAYBERRY FRUIT
Authors: YANG ZHENFENG , ZHENG YONGHUA , CAO SHIFENG , TANG SHUANGSHUANG , MA SUJUAN , LI NA
Published: January 2007

The influence of storage temperature on textural properties of Chinese bayberry fruit was investigated by using instrumental texture profile analysis (TPA). The fruit was harvested at ripe stage and stored at 20, 10 and 1C for 60 h, 5 and 14 days, respectively, and six textural parameters were measured. There was a decrease in fruit firmness, cohesiveness, springiness, resilience and chewiness, and an increase in adhesiveness during storage. Increased storage temperature resulted in accelerated decrease in fruit firmness, cohesiveness, springiness, resilience and chewiness, and an increase in adhesiveness. There was a significant correlation among the six TPA parameters. Low temperature inhibited the decrease of total soluble solids, total titratable acidity and increase of flesh pH value, thereby maintaining better taste quality. TPA parameters could be used as suitable indicators of fruit quality and storability, and low temperature storage is beneficial for delaying textural changes and maintaining the taste quality of Chinese bayberry fruit after harvest.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The research reported in this article is relevant and of interest to both researchers and industry. Because our results confirm that TPA is a reliable instrumental measurement for evaluating the textural quality and fruit softening of Chinese bayberry fruit during storage, the measurement of TPA parameters may have the potential to provide useful information for quality control in industry, and to serve as objective indicators of fruit quality and storability for postharvest researchers to develop more suitable handling, transportation and storage techniques of Chinese bayberry fruit. Moreover, our finding that low temperature storage was beneficial for delaying textural changes and maintaining the taste quality of Chinese bayberry fruit will help industry to determine the suitable temperature for storage of this fruit.
The NeuroGrid Stroke Exemplar Clinical Trial Protocol
Authors: Wardlaw J. M. , Bath Philip , Sandercock Peter , Perry David , Palmer Jeb , Watson Graham , Lloyd Sharon , Geddes John , Farrall Andrew
Published: January 2007

Rationale

Trials of new treatments for neurological disorders like stroke require imaging as part of the patient assessment, but need to be large enough to obtain reliable results if treatment effects are likely to be modest. However, multicentre trials use many different scanners in different hospitals and present complex problems for image data collection, interpretation and analysis and long-term secure archiving.

Aims

NeuroGrid aims to develop and test grid technologies for collecting, analysing and interpreting, and secure archiving of neuroimaging data for large multicentre trials in common neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Design

A 3-year multicentre consortium of clinicians, neuroimaging centres and e-scientists are designing a Grid storage network, mechanisms for uploading, curating and retrieving image and metadata, combining image data from different scanners and an analysis tool box. Three clinical exemplars – stroke, dementia and psychosis – provide the data and ‘real-world’ clinical trial applications, and a set of specific and typical problems encountered with image data in multicentre trials for NeuroGrid to address. The stroke exemplar is using image data from two multicentre stroke trials: Third International Stroke Trial and Efficacy of Nitric Oxide in Stroke.

Outcomes

The final product is intended to appear as an integrated capability consisting of services, both database and analyses, accessed through simple portals. These will include image submission, automated scan quality control, appropriate metadata linkage, streamlined image review and coding tools and long-term secure storage for future multicentre stroke trials.
Functional Imaging of Stroke Recovery: What Have We Learnt and Where Do We Go from Here?
Authors: Johansen-Berg Heidi
Published: January 2007

Functional brain imaging techniques have been used to visualise patterns of activity following stroke and to characterise how these patterns change with recovery or rehabilitation. Some consensus is now emerging on patterns that are predictive of improved outcome, and therapeutic strategies are beginning to be guided by such findings. However, patient heterogeneity predicts that the same approach will not be appropriate for all. Future studies should aim to characterise the factors that influence this heterogeneity, and to individualise rehabilitation strategies based in part on early imaging findings. Functional imaging studies of stroke should also embrace recent methodological and conceptual advances that allow for fuller characterisation of the structural and functional properties of distributed brain networks.
What Should We Do with Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis?
Authors: Abbott Anne L. , Bladin Christopher F. , Levi Christopher R. , Chambers Brian R.
Published: January 2007

The benefit of prophylactic carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for patients with asymptomatic severe carotid stenosis in the major randomised surgical studies was small, expensive and may now be absorbed by improvements in best practice medical intervention. Strategies to identify patients with high stroke risk are needed. If surgical intervention is to be considered the complication rates of individual surgeons should be available. Clinicians will differ in their interpretation of the same published data. Maintaining professional relationships with clinicians from different disciplines often involves compromise. As such, the management of a patient will, in part, depend on what kind of specialist the patient is referred to. The clinician's discussion with patients about this complex issue must be flexible to accommodate differing patient expectations. Ideally, patients prepared to undergo surgical procedures should be monitored in a trial setting or as part of an audited review process to increase our understanding of current practice outcomes.
Modulation of mucosal permeability by vasoactive intestinal peptide or lidocaine affects the adjustment of luminal hypotonicity in rat duodenum
Authors: Nylander O. , Sjöblom M.
Published: January 2007

Aims:  To examine whether modulation of paracellular solute permeability affects the capability of the duodenum to adjust luminal osmolality.

Methods:  Proximal duodenum was perfused with a hypotonic NaCl solution and effects on paracellular permeability to 51Cr‐EDTA, motility, anion secretion, net fluid flux and perfusate osmolality determined in anaesthetized rats in the absence and presence of the COX‐2 inhibitor parecoxib. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was used to reduce and lidocaine to augment the hypotonicity‐induced increase in paracellular permeability.

Results:  Luminal hypotonicity slightly increased paracellular permeability in control animals. Parecoxib induced motility, increased electrolyte and fluid secretion, potentiated the hypotonicity‐induced rise in paracellular permeability and enhanced the capability to adjust luminal osmolality. VIP, given to control animals stimulated electrolyte and fluid secretion and augmented the capability to adjust luminal osmolality. Administration of VIP to parecoxib‐treated animals increased secretion further, markedly reduced the hypotonicity‐induced increase in permeability but did not change the osmolality‐adjusting capability. Luminal lidocaine potentiated the hypotonicity‐induced increase in permeability, reduced the hypotonicity‐induced net fluid absorption and the osmolality‐adjusting capability was 50% greater than in controls. Lidocaine, given to parecoxib‐treated animals potentiated the hypotonicity‐induced increase in permeability, reduced the hypotonicity‐induced net fluid absorption but did not change the osmolality‐adjusting capability.

Conclusions:  Vasoactive intestinal peptide reduces the osmolality‐adjusting capacity of the duodenum by inhibiting paracellular solute permeability but improves this capacity by stimulating active electrolyte and fluid secretion. In contrast, lidocaine improves the osmolality‐adjusting capability by augmenting paracellular solute transport but depresses it by reducing the hypotonicity‐induced net fluid absorption.