bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adoptive transfusion of tolerant dendritic cells prolong the survival of renal allografts: a systematic review
Authors: Xia Meng Juan , Shan Juan , Li You Ping , Zhou Yan Ni , Guo Ying Jia , Sun Gui Xiang , Wu Wen Qiao , Feng Li 
Published: November 2013

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of transfusing Tol‐DCs induced by different methods on renal transplantation and survival time.MethodPubMed and EMbase were searched for relevant articles from inception to July 20th, 2013. Renal allograft survival time was regarded as the endpoint outcome. The effects of Tol‐DCs on renal transplantation were evaluated semi‐quantitatively.ResultsSixteen articles were included. There were three sources of Tol‐DCs, including bone marrow, spleen, and thoracic duct lymph node. Rats were administrated cells intravenously and 83% of mice through the portal vein. Four subtypes of bone marrow Tol‐DCs enhanced renal allograft time: immature DCs enhanced allograft survival 4.9‐fold in rats and 2.0‐fold in mice, gene modified DCs enhanced allograft survival 4.4‐fold in rats and 2.2‐fold in mice, and drug and cytokine induced enhanced allograft survival 2.9‐fold and 2.7‐fold, respectively, in rats. Tol‐DCs from the spleen and thoracic duct lymph nodes prolonged allograft survival 2.7‐fold and 1.8‐fold, respectively, in rats. 1‐2×106 doses of Tol‐DCs extended the survival time of rats following renal transplantation. The key mechanisms by which Tol‐DCs enhance allograft and overall survival included: (i) inducing T‐cell hyporeactivity; (ii) reducing the effects of cytotoxic lymphocytes; and (iii) inducing Th2 differentiation.ConclusionBone marrow Tol‐DCs can extend allograft survival and induce immune tolerance in fully MHC‐mismatched renal transplantation in rats and mice. The effects of imDCs and gene modified Tol‐DCs in mice are less marked. In conclusion, a single‐injection of 1‐2×106 doses of bone marrow Tol‐DCs (i.v.), in combination with an immune‐suppressor, a co‐stimulator, and accessory cells can significantly extend renal allograft survival.
Coffee and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: Brewing evidence for hepatoprotection?
Authors: Chen Shaohua , Teoh Narci C , Chitturi Shiv , Farrell Geoffrey C 
Published: November 2013

AbstractCoffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Several studies consistently show that coffee drinkers with chronic liver disease have a reduced risk of cirrhosis and a lower incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma regardless of primary etiology. With the increasing prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide, there is renewed interest in the effect of coffee intake on NAFLD severity and positive clinical outcomes. This review gives an overview of growing epidemiological and clinical evidence which indicate that coffee consumption reduces severity of NAFLD. These studies vary in methodology, and potential confounding factors have not always been completely excluded. However, it does appear that coffee, and particular components other than caffeine, reduce NAFLD prevalence and inflammation of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. Several possible mechanisms underlying coffee's hepatoprotective effects in NAFLD include antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects, while a chemopreventive effect against hepatocarcinogenesis seems likely. The so‐far limited data supporting such effects will be discussed, and the need for further study is highlighted.
Rapid and reversible responses to IVIG in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases suggest mechanisms of action involving competition with functionally important autoantibodies
Authors: Berger Melvin , McCallus Daniel E. , Lin Cindy Shin‐Yi 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is widely used in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases whose pathogenesis is undefined. Many different effects of IVIG have been demonstrated in vitro, but few studies actually identify the mechanism(s) most important in vivo. Doses and treatment intervals are generally chosen empirically. Recent studies in Guillain‐Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy show that some effects of IVIG are readily reversible and highly dependent on the serum IgG level. This suggests that in some autoantibody‐mediated neuromuscular diseases, IVIG directly competes with autoantibodies that reversibly interfere with nerve conduction. Mechanisms of action of IVIG which most likely involve direct competition with autoantibodies include: neutralization of autoantibodies by anti‐idiotypes, inhibition of complement deposition, and increasing catabolism of pathologic antibodies by saturating FcRn. Indirect immunomodulatory effects are not as likely to involve competition and may not have the same reversibility and dose‐dependency. Pharmacodynamic analyses should be informative regarding most relevant mechanism(s) of action of IVIG as well as the role of autoantibodies in the immunopathogenesis of each disease. Better understanding of the role of autoantibodies and of the target(s) of IVIG could lead to more efficient use of this therapy and better patient outcomes.
Health and well‐being of secondary school students in New Zealand: Trends between 2001, 2007 and 2012
Authors: Clark Terryann , Fleming Theresa , Bullen Pat , Crengle Sue , Denny Simon , Dyson Ben , Peiris‐John Roshini , Robinson Elizabeth , Rossen Fiona , Sheridan Janie , Teevale Tasileta , Utter Jennifer , Lewycka Sonia 
Published: November 2013

AimTo describe indicators of health and well‐being for New Zealand secondary school students; explore changes between 2001, 2007 and 2012; and compare these findings to international estimates.MethodsThree national health and well‐being surveys of randomly selected New Zealand secondary school students were conducted. Data are presented as prevalence and variation over time (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)). Comparisons with international estimates were made with subsets of the data.ResultsBetween 2001 and 2012, students reported reductions in cigarette use (aOR 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23–0.32), alcohol use (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.33–0.46), marijuana use (aOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.31–0.43), sexual abuse (aOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.46–0.58), fighting (aOR 0.63, 95% CI 0.55–0.73), seatbelt use (aOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.31–1.65) and risky driving behaviours (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.33–0.45). Positive connections to school (perception that the school cares, aOR 1.22, 95% CI 1.10–1.35; liking school, aOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.33–1.82) and family (good family relationship, aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.70–1.97) also improved. Indicators that did not improve and compared poorly with international estimates were protected sex (condom use at last sexual intercourse, aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87) and healthy life‐style (daily physical activity, aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.78–0.99; overweight/obese, aOR 1.09, 95% CI 0.92–1.31). Exposure to family violence (aOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.11–1.68) and depressive symptoms (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.91–1.17) also did not improve.ConclusionsThere have been important improvements in the health and well‐being of New Zealand adolescents over a relatively short period. These findings demonstrate that population rates of adolescent risk behaviours are amenable to change. Current policy efforts should not lose momentum, while identified priority areas must be adequately resourced to ensure young people have opportunities to thrive now and in the future.
Concentrations of metronidazole in human plasma and saliva after tablet or gel administration
Authors: de C Bergamaschi Cristiane , Berto Luciana A , Venâncio Paulo C , Cogo Karina , Franz-Montan Michelle , Motta Rogério H L , Santamaria Mauro P , Groppo Francisco C 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of metronidazole (Mtz) tablet and to compare Mtz gel and tablet concentrations in both blood plasma and saliva.

Methods
In this randomized cross-over study with a 1-week washout period, 13 volunteers randomly received one (a single oral dose of 750 mg Mtz (Flagyl® – tablet) and 2) 3 g of 15% Mtz benzoate gel (applied by using a dental tray). The HPLC with ultraviolet detection was used to quantify plasma and saliva concentrations of Mtz. The pharmacokinetic parameters (PPs) areas under the curves from 0 to 48 h (AUC0–48) and from 0 to infinity (AUC0–∞), the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), the time to Cmax, volume of distribution and renal clearance were determined for Mtz tablet.

Key findings
Considering the Mtz tablet, plasma showed higher Mtz concentration from 6 to 24 h after drug administration and the highest values concerning AUC0–48h and AUC0–∞ than those obtained in saliva (P &lt; 0.05). No significant differences were observed between plasma and saliva concentrations for Mtz gel.

Conclusions
The study showed that some PPs were higher in plasma (P &lt; 0.05) than in saliva concerning Mtz tablet. Gel formulation had similar Mtz bioavailability in plasma and saliva resulting in systemic absorption.
Berberis aetnensis and B. libanotica: a comparative study on the chemical composition, inhibitory effect on key enzymes linked to Alzheimer's disease and antioxidant activity
Authors: Bonesi Marco , Loizzo Monica R , Conforti Filomena , Passalacqua Nicodemo G , Saab Antoine , Menichini Federica , Tundis Rosa 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Objectives
This study involves for the first time the evaluation of Berberis aetnensis C. Presl. and Berberis libanotica Ehrenb. ex C.K. Schneid. roots for anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties, with the aim to search compounds possibly useful for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods
Samples were evaluated for their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The antioxidant activity was assayed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and β-carotene bleaching tests. Berberine and palmatine were isolated by flash chromatography and identified by spectrometric methods as main constituents. Non-polar compounds were analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Key findings
Extracts, fractions and isolated compounds inhibited AChE and BChE to varying degrees. The methanol fractions exhibited the strongest AChE inhibitory activity with inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) of 7.6 and 16.9 μg/ml for B. aetnensis and B. libanotica, respectively. The alkaloid fraction of B. aetnensis inhibited AChE (IC50 of 24.5 μg/ml) and possessed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 value of 2.2 μg/ml in β-carotene-bleaching test after 30 min of incubation). Berberine was more potent of palmatine against AChE (IC50 of 2.2 and 7.4 μg/ml, respectively).

Conclusions
These findings raise the possibility of developing B. aetnensis and B. libanotica as a promising candidate for the treatment of AD.
Hepatitis B virus depicts a high degree of conservation during the immune‐tolerant phase in familiarly transmitted chronic hepatitis B infection: deep‐sequencing and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Sede M. , Lopez‐Ledesma M. , Frider B. , Pozzati M. , Campos R. H. , Flichman D. , Quarleri J. 
Published: November 2013

SummaryWhen intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) occurs, a virus with the same characteristics interacts with diverse hosts' immune systems and may thus result in different mutations to escape immune pressure. In this study, the HBV genomic characterization was assessed longitudinally after intrafamilial transmission using nucleotide sequence data of phylogenetic and mutational analyses, including those obtained by deep‐sequencing for the first time. Furthermore, HBeAg‐anti‐HBe profile and variability of HBV core‐derived epitopes were also evaluated. Strong evidence was obtained from intrafamilial transmission of HBV genotype D1 by phylogenetic inferences. HBV isolates exhibited high degree (~99%) of genomic conservation for almost 20 years, when patients were persistently HBeAg positive with normal amino transferase levels. This identity remained high among immune‐tolerant siblings. In contrast, it diminished significantly (P = 0.02) when the mother cleared HBeAg (immune clearance phase). By deep‐sequencing, the quantitative analysis of the dynamics of basal core promoter (BCP) (A1762T, G1764A; A1766C; T1773C; 8‐bp deletion; and other) and precore (G1896A) variants among HBV isolates from family members exhibited differences during the follow‐up. However, only those from the mother showed amino acid variations at core protein that would impair their MHC‐II binding. Hence, when intrafamilial transmission occurs, HBV was highly conserved under the immune‐tolerant phase, but it exhibited mutations more frequently during the immune clearance phase. The analysis of the HBV BCP and precore mutants after intrafamilial HBV transmission contributes to a better understanding of how they evolve over time.
Sipunculus nudus Linnaeus, 1766 (Sipuncula): cosmopolitan or a group of pseudo‐cryptic species? An integrated molecular and morphological approach
Authors: Kawauchi Gisele Y. , Giribet Gonzalo 
Published: November 2013

AbstractSipunculan taxonomy relies on a limited set of external morphological and internal anatomical characters. In addition, this marine group is characterized by an unusual large number of putatively cosmopolitan species. However, this ‘cosmopolitan’ status could be an artifact of their conserved morphology and the small number of unambiguous taxonomic characters available for delimiting species. Species delimitation can therefore be aided by molecular techniques. We investigated the case of the widespread and common species Sipunculus nudus Linnaeus, 1766 to determine its systematic validity. We analysed the morphology of multiple specimens of S. nudus collected from 11 localities around the world and undertook phylogenetic analyses using molecular sequence data from four genes (28S rRNA, 16S rRNA, histone H3 and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I). High levels of genetic differentiation are present between distantly related populations of the putative species S. nudus. Five distinct lineages were identified by phylogenetic analyses, three of which – the best‐represented populations – can be distinguished morphologically. Our phylogenetic and morphological analyses thus do not favor the cosmopolitan status of S. nudus, suggesting instead that it constitutes a complex of morphologically similar but distinguishable species.
Differential roles for the Co2+/Ni2+ transporting ATPases, CtpD and CtpJ, in Mycobacterium tuberculosis virulence
Authors: Raimunda Daniel , Long Jarukit E. , Padilla‐Benavides Teresita , Sassetti Christopher M. , Argüello José M. 
Published: November 2013

SummaryThe genome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis encodes two paralogous P1B4‐ATPases, CtpD (Rv1469) and CtpJ (Rv3743). Both proteins showed ATPase activation by Co2+ and Ni2+, and both appear to be required for metal efflux from the cell. However, using a combination of biochemical and genetic studies we found that these proteins play non‐redundant roles in virulence and metal efflux. CtpJ expression is induced by Co2+ and this protein possesses a relatively high turnover rate. A ctpJ deletion mutant accumulated Co2+, indicating that this ATPase controls cytoplasmic metal levels. In contrast, CtpD expression is induced by redox stressors and this protein displays a relatively low turnover rate. A ctpD mutant failed to accumulate metal, suggesting an alternative cellular function. ctpD is cotranscribed with two thioredoxin genes trxA (Rv1470), trxB (Rv1471), and an enoyl‐coA hydratase (Rv1472), indicating a possible role for CtpD in the metallation of these redox‐active proteins. Supporting this, in vitro metal binding assays showed that TrxA binds Co2+ and Ni2+. Mutation of ctpD, but not ctpJ, reduced bacterial fitness in the mouse lung, suggesting that redox maintenance, but not Co2+ accumulation, is important for growth in vivo.
Trichomonas vaginalis flavin reductase 1 and its role in metronidazole resistance
Authors: Leitsch David , Janssen Brian D. , Kolarich Daniel , Johnson Patricia J. , Duchêne Michael 
Published: November 2013

SummaryThe enzyme flavin reductase 1 (FR1) from Trichomonas vaginalis, formerly known as NADPH oxidase, was isolated and identified. Flavin reductase is part of the antioxidative defence in T. vaginalis and indirectly reduces molecular oxygen to hydrogen peroxide via free flavins. Importantly, a reduced or absent flavin reductase activity has been reported in metronidazole‐resistant T. vaginalis, resulting in elevated intracellular oxygen levels and futile cycling of metronidazole. Interestingly, FR1 has no close homologue in any other sequenced genome, but seven full‐length and three truncated isoforms exist in the T. vaginalis genome. However, out of these, only FR1 has an affinity for flavins, i.e. FMN, FAD and riboflavin, which is high enough to be of physiological relevance. Although there are no relevant changes in the gene sequence or any alterations of the predicted FR1‐mRNA structure in any of the strains studied, FR1 is not expressed in highly metronidazole‐resistant strains. Transfection of a metronidazole‐resistant clinical isolate (B7268), which does not express any detectable amounts of FR, with a plasmid bearing a functional FR1 gene nearly completely restored metronidazole sensitivity. Our results indicate that FR1 has a significant role in the emergence of metronidazole resistance in T. vaginalis.
Neuroimmune interactions at different intestinal sites are related to abdominal pain symptoms in children with IBS
Authors: Di Nardo G. , Barbara G. , Cucchiara S. , Cremon C. , Shulman R. J. , Isoldi S. , Zecchi L. , Drago L. , Oliva S. , Saulle R. , Barbaro M. R. , Stronati L. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractBackgroundNeuroimmune interactions and inflammation have been proposed as factors involved in sensory‐motor dysfunction and symptom generation in adult irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. In children with IBS and healthy controls, we measured ileocolonic mast cell infiltration and fecal calprotectin and evaluated the relationships between these parameters and abdominal pain symptoms and stooling pattern.MethodsIrritable bowel syndrome patients diagnosed according to Pediatric Rome III criteria and healthy controls kept a 2‐week pain/stooling diary. Ileocolonic mucosal mast cells (MC) and MC in close proximity to nerve fibers (MC‐NF) were identified immunohistochemically and quantified. Fecal calprotectin concentration was measured.Key Results21 IBS patients and 10 controls were enrolled. The MC‐NF count was significantly higher in the ileum (p = 0.01), right colon (p = 0.04), and left colon (p < 0.001) of IBS patients compared with controls. No differences in fecal calprotectin concentration were noted. Abdominal pain intensity score correlated with ileal MC count (rs = 0.47, p = 0.030) and right colon MC‐NF count (rs = 0.52, p = 0.015). In addition, children with IBS with >3 abdominal pain episodes/week had greater ileal (p = 0.002) and right colonic (p = 0.01) MC counts and greater ileal (p = 0.05) and right colonic (p = 0.016) MC‐NF counts than children with less frequent pain. No relationship was found between MC and MC‐NF and fecal calprotectin or stooling pattern.Conclusions & InferencesMast cells‐nerve fibers counts are increased in the ileocolonic mucosa of children with IBS. Mast cells and MC‐NF counts are related to the intensity and frequency of abdominal pain.
Physiological differences explain the co‐existence of different regeneration strategies in Mediterranean ecosystems
Authors: Vilagrosa Alberto , Hernández Encarnación I. , Luis Vanessa C. , Cochard Hervé , Pausas Juli G. 
Published: November 2013

Summary

Fire and drought are selective driving forces in Mediterranean plants, and thus their ability to resprout or recruit after these disturbances is of paramount importance. The contrast in regeneration niche between resprouters and seeders, and each group's different root characteristics, suggest that they are subjected to different degrees of environmental stress and, consequently, to different evolutionary forces.

We compared leaf traits, xylem traits related to hydraulic efficiency and vulnerability to cavitation, and the physiological response to an imposed drought between seedlings of resprouters and seedlings of seeders. We used 12 species co‐existing in Mediterranean basin ecosystems.

Major differences were found in the xylem architecture and leaf traits, and in the response to drought conditions. Seeders were more efficient at transporting water to leaves but formed, in turn, a safer xylem network. They also presented higher photosynthesis and transpiration rates, and earlier stomatal closure with drought, but good leaf dehydration tolerance.

Seeders and resprouters can be considered two syndromes whose different functional characteristics are related to water availability and drought responses. These characteristics, together with their differences in rooting habits, account for their distinct regeneration niches and, thus, their co‐existence.
Selective expansion of donor‐derived regulatory T cells after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in a patient with IPEX syndrome
Authors: Horino Satoshi , Sasahara Yoji , Sato Miki , Niizuma Hidetaka , Kumaki Satoru , Abukawa Daiki , Sato Atsushi , Imaizumi Masue , Kanegane Hirokazu , Kamachi Yoshiro , Sasaki Shinya , Terui Kiminori , Ito Etsuro , Kobayashi Ichiro , Ariga Tadashi , Tsuchiya Shigeru , Kure Shigeo 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIPEX syndrome is a rare and fatal disorder caused by absence of regulatory T cells (Tregs) due to congenital mutations in the Forkhead box protein 3 gene. Here, we report a patient with IPEX syndrome treated with RIC followed by allogeneic BMT from an HLA‐matched sibling donor. We could achieve engraftment and regimen‐related toxicity was well tolerated. Although the patient was in mixed chimera and the ratio of donor cells in whole peripheral blood remained relatively low, selective and sustained expansion of Tregs determined as CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cells was observed. Improvement in clinical symptoms was correlated with expansion of donor‐derived Tregs and disappearance of anti‐villin autoantibody, which was involved in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal symptoms in IPEX syndrome. This clinical observation suggests that donor‐derived Tregs have selective growth advantage in patients with IPEX syndrome even in mixed chimera after allogeneic BMT and contribute to the control of clinical symptoms caused by the defect of Tregs.
Photosensitizing medications and photocarcinogenesis
Authors: O'Gorman Susan M. , Murphy Gillian M. 
Published: November 2013

SummaryPhotosensitivity is an exaggerated or abnormal response to ultraviolet (UV) or visible light exposure. Many current medications are known photosensitizers; however, the effects of the sensitization can be subclinical and go unnoticed by the person affected. While some of these drugs are used for short and defined periods, others are used indefinitely for the treatment of chronic disease. The question of whether either of these practices translates into an increased risk of skin cancer is an important one. Numerous medications have real, distinct and well‐elucidated mechanisms that potentiate the development of skin cancer, while with some medications the mechanism for the observed carcinogenesis remains unclear. In this article we will discuss the clinical, mechanistic and epidemiological evidence supporting photochemical genotoxicity and carcinogenesis.