bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relation between neuritic plaques and depressive state in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Meynen Gerben , Van Stralen Heleen , Smit Jan H. , Kamphorst Wouter , Swaab Dick F. , Hoogendijk Witte J.G. 
Published: October 2009

Meynen G, Van Stralen H, Smit JH, Kamphorst W, Swaab DF, Hoogendijk WJG. Relation between neuritic plaques and depressive state in Alzheimer's disease.Background:To investigate for the first time in a prospective study the relationship between depressive state and the neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, using a scale for depressive symptoms in dementia, while controlling for clinical severity of dementia.Method:Within the framework of a prospective longitudinal study of depression in Alzheimer's disease, patients with dementia underwent a clinical evaluation every six months during the last years of their lives, using the Cornell scale for depression in dementia to assess depressive symptoms and using the Functional Assessment Staging scale to control for clinical severity of dementia. The brains of 43 Alzheimer patients were obtained. The last clinical evaluations prior to death together with post-mortem neuropathology measures were analysed.Results:We found a correlation between the Cornell scores and the sum score for the density of neuritic plaques in the entire cortex (p = 0.027), and even stronger in the temporal cortex (p = 0.012). The observed correlations were independent of sex, age of death, clinical dementia severity and duration of Alzheimer's disease.Conclusions:This study shows a positive relationship between depressive state at time of death and the presence of neuritic plaques in Alzheimer's disease, which is independent of the clinical severity of dementia.
Oestradiol Protects Against the Harmful Effects of Fluoride More by Increasing Thiol Group Levels than Scavenging Hydroxyl Radicals
Authors: Dlugosz Anna , Roszkowska Anna , Zimmer Mariusz 
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  The aim of the study was to investigate the role of oestrogens in free radical detoxication upon exposure to fluoride. Interactions between xenobiotics and oestrogens need to be investigated, especially as many chemicals interact with the oestrogen receptor. It is still unknown whether free radical‐generating xenobiotics can influence the antioxidative ability of oestradiol (E2). In an in vitro examination of human placental mitochondria, thiobarbituric active reagent species (TBARS), hydroxyl radical (•OH) generation and protein thiol (–SH) groups were detected. 17β‐E2 was examined in physiological (0.15–0.73 nM) and experimental (1–10 µM) concentrations and sodium fluoride (NaF) in concentrations of 6–24 µM. E2 in all the concentrations significantly decreased lipid peroxidation measured as the TBARS level, in contrast to NaF, which increased lipid peroxidation. Lipid peroxidation induced by NaF was decreased by E2. The influence of E2 on •OH generation was not very significant and depended on the E2 concentration. The main mechanism of E2 protection in NaF exposure appeared to be connected with the influence of E2 on thiol group levels, not •OH scavenging ability. The E2 in concentrations 0.44–0.73 nM and 1–10 µM significantly increased the levels of –SH groups, in contrast to NaF, which significantly decreased them. E2 at every concentration reversed the harmful effects of NaF on –SH group levels. No unfavourable interactions in the influence of E2 and NaF on TBARS production, •OH generation, or –SH group levels were observed. The results suggest that postmenopausal women could be more sensitive to NaF‐initiated oxidative stress.
Endoreduplication in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seeds during development, after processing and storage, and during germination
Authors: Rewers M. , Sadowski J. , Sliwinska E. 
Published: October 2009

AbstractFlow cytometry was used to study endoreduplication in developing, stored and germinating seeds of cucumber (Cucumis sativus). Fruits growing in a commercial seed production field were collected every 7 days, starting 14 days after pollination (DAP) up to 63 DAP (commercial harvest time). Seeds were isolated and the proportion of nuclei with different DNA contents in the whole seeds and in the embryos was analysed. Germination capacity of fresh and dried seeds at 25°C was established. In addition, the same analyses were performed on the seeds after processing (fermentation, drying and cleaning), following 1 and 2 years of storage, and after imbibition for 3, 6 and 12 h. In the young developing seeds, endoreduplication up to 128C occurred but this decreased to 8C by maturity. The proportion of endosperm nuclei was the highest at 21 DAP (30%) and then decreased to below 14% at harvest and 8% after processing. In the mature processed seeds, the majority of embryo nuclei (about 80%) contained 2C DNA; however, about 2% of endoreduplicated (8C) nuclei were still present. Seeds did not show any germination capacity up to 21 DAP; then it gradually increased to reach 100% as early as 49 DAP, 2 weeks before commercial harvest time. The relationship between seed maturity, germination and cell cycle status is discussed. The mean C‐value of the seed cells as well as the (4C + 8C + 16C)/2C ratio are recommended as markers of cucumber seed maturity and the advancement of germination/priming (the stage of germination sensu stricto).
DETECTION OF SPINAL CORD TISSUES AS BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY SPECIFIED RISK MATERIAL IN BEEF CARCASSES DURING SPLITTING IN TURKISH ABATTOIRS
Authors: KALE M. , KURŞUN Ö. , AKCAN KALE A.S. , PEHLİVANOĞLU F. , GÜNER A. , BAŞKAYA R. , DOĞRUER Y. , ÖZTÜRK Ç. 
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT We used an enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay to detect central nervous system (CNS)‐specific glial fibrillary acidic protein to show the presence of CNS material on the medial surface of each half (left and right) of washed carcasses after splitting with a band‐type saw. The high level contamination (≥0.4) was detected at the highest ratio on the brisket + plate area surface of carcasses (33.3%). The moderate level contamination (>0.2) was detected at the highest ratio on the brisket + plate and loin areas surface of carcasses (11.1%). The low‐level contamination (≥0.1) was detected at the highest ratio on the flank and hip areas surface of carcasses (100.0%). The similar level contamination risk was found on both the right and left half of 72 beef carcasses. Although no contamination was detected on the band‐type saw, the low‐level contamination (≥0.1) was detected on the floor where the splitting of the carcasses was performed. Even though the low‐level contamination (≥0.1) was detected on all areas of the carcasses, even after washing, the moderate and high level contamination were detected only on the chuck + rib, brisket + plate and loin areas.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONSThe process of splitting of beef carcasses in the abattoirs involves some critical stages when tissues included in the so‐called specified risk material (SRM), particularly spinal cord, are released. This can obviously lead to potential dissemination of central nervous system material over the carcass and surrounding area, resulting in possible contamination with the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) infective agent.By this study, the first time in Turkey, contamination of BSE‐SRM in beef carcasses during splitting in private abattoirs was investigated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay. The test was preferred because this is sensitive, very fast and cost‐saving on carcass and on surfaces (saw, floor), and detect the antigen called glial fibrillary acidic protein. This study, as a first report in Turkey, showed the contamination level of beef carcasses, instruments and tools and slaughterhouse environment with BSE‐SRM.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF STANDARD CULTURE AND REAL‐TIME POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION TO DETECT CAMPYLOBACTER JEJUNI IN RETAIL CHICKEN SAMPLES
Authors: DEBRETSION ARADOM , HABTEMARIAM TSEGAYE , WILSON SAUL , TAMERU BERHANU , WESLEY IRENE V. , YEHUALAESHET TESHOME 
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT Contamination of poultry by Campylobacter is a significant source of human diarrheal illness. The purpose of this study was to compare standard culture‐based methods and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for detection of Campylobacter jejuni from retail chicken samples. Culture methods were compared with RT‐PCR (without enrichment) for detection of C. jejuni in naturally contaminated chicken samples. Purchased chicken samples (n = 43) were collected from four supermarkets. C. jejuni was detected by direct plating to selective agar (DPSA; 5/43, 11.6%), RT‐PCR (15/43, 34.9%) and Bolton's enrichment (BE; 8/43, 41.9%). Fifteen chicken samples were concordant by RT‐PCR and BE whereas three samples were positive only by BE. The sensitivity of the RT‐PCR and DPSA, when compared to BE as the reference standard (100% sensitivity) were 81 and 29%, respectively. Application of rapid and sensitive methods for detection and enumeration of C. jejuni is important for the maintenance of a safe poultry supply.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Campylobacter spp are one of the most common causes of bacterial diarrheal disease worldwide. This zoonotic pathogen is reported to have a low infective dose with high pathogenicity. The practical application of the experiment is directed to assess the “standard culture‐based methods and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR)” to detect Campylobacter jejuni, which is most commonly isolated campylobacter species from clinical infections and chicken samples. Because of the growth characteristics and difficulty of routine diagnostic technique, evaluation of food samples for the presence of C. jejuni can be challenging.The main focus of the study is to assess the sensitivity and sensitivity of culture and RT‐PCR. The results are instrumental resources in the area of food safety, epidemiological surveillance, policy development to monitor and regulate the food matrices and diagnostic laboratories. The audiences of this information will be both academic and commercial sectors involved in poultry production and processing institutions, food regulatory and inspection institutions, risk assessment and also the consumer.
PURIFICATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND N‐TERMINAL AMINO ACID SEQUENCING OF SAKACIN 1, A BACTERIOCIN PRODUCED BY LACTOBACILLUS SAKEI 1
Authors: D'ANGELIS C.E.M. , POLIZELLO A.C.M. , NONATO M.C. , SPADARO A.C.C. , DE MARTINIS E.C.P. 
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT Biopreservation using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and/or their metabolites represents an alternative for improving food safety. LAB can synthesize and excrete antimicrobial peptides denominated bacteriocins, but only nisin has been largely commercially used as a food preservative. There are limitations in using this bacteriocin, in part due to its inactivation in meat products. Current research on LAB bacteriocins are conducted aiming to broad their application as natural food preservatives. Lactobacillus sakei 1, is a LAB previously isolated in our laboratory from pork sausage and it is capable to inhibit Listeria monocytogenes, by bacteriocin production. In this work, L. sakei 1 was grown in MRS broth and its bacteriocin was extracted by adsorption on its own cells and purified by cation‐exchange, followed by hydrophobic interaction and high performance reverse‐phase chromatography. An estimate of the molecular weight for the partially purified peptide (3,420 Da) was carried out using SDS‐PAGE stained by silver stain and with a bioindicator (L. monocytogenes). The purified bacteriocin was also analyzed by mass espectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) and the molecular weight was determined as 4,438.83 Da. Approximately 31 N‐terminal amino acid residues were sequenced by Edman degradation and the motif YGNGV (commonly found in Class IIa bacteriocins) was found in the N‐terminal sequence.PRATICAL APPLICATIONSSeveral antimicrobial peptides produced by lactic acid bacteria have been purified and they present potential for food applications. However, the only peptide largely applied commercially is the bacteriocin nisin. To widen the use of bacteriocins in food biopreservation, it is important to study bacteriocin‐producing strains that can be well adapted to foods where they intend to be used and to elucidate the structure of the inhibitory molecule, to allow production in large scale if the purified peptide is to be used. In the present work, the bacteriocin produced by the Brazilian meat isolate Lactobacillus sakei 1 has been characterized.
Predictors for visual field progression and the effects of treatment with dorzolamide 2% or brinzolamide 1% each added to timolol 0.5% in primary open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Martínez Antonio , Sanchez‐Salorio Manuel 
Published: October 2009

Abstract.Purpose:  This study aims to identify progression factors in patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG), including the effects of treatment with dorzolamide 2% or brinzolamide 1%, each added to timolol 0.5%.Methods:  A sample of 161 POAG patients were prospectively randomized to receive either dorzolamide 2% (DT) or brinzolamide 1% (BT) b.i.d., each added to timolol 0.5%, during a 60‐month, evaluator‐masked study. Progression was determined by perimetric criteria. Factors associated with visual field progression were estimated using a conditional Cox hazard model with patient intraclass correlation and were expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).Results:  Predictive baseline factors were lower diastolic blood pressure (DBP), lower mean arterial pressure (MAP), antihypertensive treatment, lower end‐diastolic velocity (EDV) in the ophthalmic artery (OA) and short posterior ciliary artery (SPCA), and a higher resistivity index (RI) in the OA and SPCA. Progression risk decreased by approximately 30% and 20% with each centimetre per second increase of EDV in the OA and SPCA, respectively, from baseline to the last follow‐up visit. Each RI decrease (or increase) of 0.01 unit in the OA or SPCA was associated with an approximate 20% decrease (or increase) in risk for progression. In a multivariate analysis, progression risk was significantly lower in eyes treated with DT (HR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.41–0.90) compared with those treated with BT.Conclusions:  Progression increased with lower DBP, lower MAP, antihypertensive medication, lower EDV in the OA and SPCA, and higher RI in the OA and SPCA. The risk for progression in patients treated with DT was half that in patients treated with BT.
Vitreous and serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet‐derived growth factor and their correlation in patients with non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy and clinically significant macula oedema
Authors: Praidou Anna , Papakonstantinou Eleni , Androudi Sofia , Georgiadis Nikolaos , Karakiulakis George , Dimitrakos Stavros 
Published: October 2009

Abstract.Purpose:  To investigate possible correlations between vitreous and/or serum levels of platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms (PDGF‐AA, ‐AB and ‐BB) with parameters associated with non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and clinically significant macula oedema (CSMO); to compare the results to relevant results regarding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is an established growth factor affecting NPDR.Methods:  Fifteen patients with NPDR, 31 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and 15 non‐diabetic patients were included in the study. Vitreous and serum samples were obtained during vitrectomy. PDGF‐AA, ‐AB and ‐BB, as well as VEGF, were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results:  PDGF‐AA, ‐AB and ‐BB and VEGF were all expressed in the serum and vitreous of controls and patients with NPDR. The levels of PDGF‐AA, PDGF‐AB and VEGF in vitreous were significantly increased in the NPDR group compared to controls, while PDGF‐BB levels were significantly decreased in the NPDR group compared to controls. The levels of all PDGF isoforms and VEGF in vitreous were significantly increased in the PDR group compared to the NPDR group. No such differences were evident in serum. PDGF‐AA and VEGF correlated significantly to the severity of NPDR. PDGF or VEGF in vitreous of NPDR patients did not correlate with retinal photocoagulation (RP) or the serum levels of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). There was no correlation between the vitreous and serum levels of VEGF or PDGF in patients with PDR. Only PDGF‐AB vitreous levels correlated significantly with PDGF‐BB vitreous levels in the NPDR group.Conclusion:  It appears that in addition to VEGF, almost all PDGF isoforms in the vitreous are also correlated with NPDR and CSMO.
Non‐invasive Assessments of Pediatric Voiding Dysfunction
Authors: CHANG Shang‐Jen , YANG Stephen Shei‐Dei 
Published: October 2009

In the evaluation of pediatric dysfunction, the initial approach relies on non‐invasive diagnostic tools. Through these examinations, the possible etiology of pediatric voiding dysfunction may be identified, and children who require further evaluation with invasive diagnostic tools may be differentiated. In addition, these non‐invasive diagnostic tools can be used as surrogate parameters for follow‐up of voiding function in children with neurogenic or non‐neurogenic voiding dysfunction.Updated information and controversy on this issue are provided and discussed in the present review. Thorough and well‐organized history taking and focused physical examination are essential. A 2‐day bladder diary and a 14‐daysbowel movement diary, at least, should be recorded. Dysfunctional voiding symptom scores have been recommended for identifying children with possible voiding dysfunction. Consensus on which scoring system is best for clinical practice has not been reached. Low inter‐observer agreement in interpreting specific types of abnormal uroflow pattern and high inter‐observer agreement in identifying “no abnormality” make uroflowmetry a first‐line screening tool for pediatric voiding dysfunction. Optimal bladder capacity is paramount in the interpretation of uroflowmetry curves and postvoid residual urine (PVR). Voided volume <50 mL is not eligible, while bladder over‐distention may result in an abnormal uroflow pattern and increased PVR volume. Renal ultrasonography has been recommended for the evaluation of children with enuresis. However, the gain achieved through routine renosonography may be small. Thickened bladder wall thickness warrants further investigation of voiding dysfunction. However, inter‐ and intra‐examiner's variability does not yet make this examination popular.
Experience with Tension‐free Vaginal Tape (TVT)‐SECUR for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: CHANG Yu‐Lung , LIN Alex T. L. , CHEN Kuang‐Kuo 
Published: October 2009

Objectives: Tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT)‐SECUR is a technique specifically designed to place a short suburethral mesh sling for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of the technique is to decrease surgical morbidity. We report our experience of applying this technique on 10 patients.Methods: From June 2007 to July 2007, 10 female patients with SUI underwent TVT‐SECUR placement operation. The sling was inserted in a suprapubic direction over the inner surface of pubic bone (U‐shaped technique). Nine of the patients underwent videourodynamic study (VUDS). The maximal bladder neck decent distance (MBND) by abdominal straining was determined. We identified intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) as a valsalva leak point pressure lower than 60 cm H2O and hypermobility as MBND more than 2 cm.Results: Two patients had pure ISD, three had hypermobility, and four had both ISD and hypermobility. All patients remained continent for first month after surgery. SUI recurred in five of nine patients at an average of 2.5 months. The recurrence appeared in all three groups of patients. The recurrent SUI was so severe that three patients required repeat surgery using percutaneous prolene tape sling. After surgery, no further SUI was noted in the three patients. During surgery the TVT‐SECUR sling was found to have firmly adhered to perivesical tissue rather than to the pubic bone.Conclusion: Our experience shows that the current design of the TVT‐SECUR results in unpredictable outcomes. Some placed slings may migrate away from the inner surface of the pubic bone. To act as a reliable “hammock”, the sling must be securely fixed on immobile structures independent from the bladder/urethra.
Attenuation of Non‐neuronal Adenosin Triphosphate Release from Human Bladder Mucosa by Antimuscarinic Agents
Authors: YOSHIDA Masaki , MASUNAGA Koichi , NAGATA Takashi , MAEDA Yoshihiro , MIYAMOTO Yutaka , KUDOH Junzo , HOMMA Yukio 
Published: October 2009

Objectives:To clarify the contribution of mucosal muscarinic receptors to bladder function, we investigated the effects of various antimuscarinic drugs on stretch‐induced non‐neuronal adenosin triphosphate (ATP) release in human bladder.Methods:Human bladders were obtained from 17 patients. Bladder strips with and without mucosa were suspended in organ baths. A microdialysis probe was inserted into the strip, Ringer's solution was perfused into the probe, and dialysate was collected under tetrodotoxin pretreatment. The amount of ATP released in dialysate was measured by luciferin‐luciferase assay. The effects of various antimuscarinic drugs on non‐neuronal ATP release were evaluated.Results:Non‐neuronal ATP release from bladder strips without mucosa was approximately 10% of that from strips with mucosa. Non‐neuronal ATP release was significantly inhibited by pretreatment with nifedipine or in Ca2+‐free medium. Both methoctramine (M2receptor selective antagonist) and 4‐diphenyl‐acetoxy‐N‐methylpiperidine methiodide (4‐DAMP [M3receptor selective antagonist]) significantly inhibited release. However, M1receptor selective antagonist (pirenzepine) did not have a significant effect on release. Oxybutynin, propiverine, tolterodine and solifenacin caused concentration‐dependent inhibition in non‐neuronal ATP release. The rank order of the maximum inhibition rate was propiverine ≥ solifenacin ≥ tolterodine ≥ oxybutynin. Solifenacin showed an inhibitory effect at a lower concentration compared to other drugs.Conclusion:The data suggest that human bladder mucosa is a main source of stretch‐induced non‐neuronal ATP release, and that stimulation of M2and M3receptor subtypes of mucosa partly contributes to non‐neuronal ATP release. Various antimuscarinic drugs used for the treatment of overactive bladder may have different inhibitory effects on non‐neuronal ATP release.