bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Natural Arctium lappa fruit extract improves the clinical signs of aging skin
Authors: Knott Anja , Reuschlein Katja , Mielke Heiko , Wensorra Ursula , Mummert Christopher , Koop Urte , Kausch Martina , Kolbe Ludger , Peters Nils , Stäb Franz , Wenck Horst , Gallinat Stefan 
Published: November 2008

SummaryBackground  Subclinical, chronic tissue inflammation involving the generation of cytokines (e.g., interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha) might contribute to the cutaneous aging process.Aims  This study aims to screen for an active ingredient with anti‐inflammatory (i.e., reduction of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha) and matrix‐stimulating efficacy which improves the clinical signs of skin aging in vivo.Patients/methods  In vitro studies with pure Arctiin were performed investigating the inhibition of cytokine induction and stimulation of collagen neosynthesis. In vivo home‐in‐use studies using an Arctium lappa fruit extract–containing formulation were carried out to determine procollagen and hyaluronan synthesis, hyaluronan synthase‐2 gene expression, and reduction of wrinkle volume after treatment.Results  In vitro studies on human dermal fibroblasts and monocyte‐derived dendritic cells supplemented with pure Arctiin showed relative to untreated control cells a stimulation of collagen synthesis and a decrease in interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha concentration, respectively. In addition, topical in vivo application of an A. lappa fruit extract–containing formulation for 12 weeks significantly stimulated procollagen synthesis and increased hyaluronan synthase‐2 expression as well as hyaluronan levels compared to vehicle‐treated control areas. Similarly, after a 4‐week treatment with an A. lappa fruit extract–containing formulation, wrinkle volume in the crow's feet area was significantly reduced as compared to treatment with the vehicle.Conclusions  Our data show that topical treatment with a natural A. lappa fruit extract significantly improves the metabolism of the dermal extracellular matrix and leads to a visible wrinkle reduction in vivo. In conclusion, A. lappa fruit extract represents a targeted means to regenerate dermal structures and, thus, offers an effective treatment option for mature skin.
Cosmetic surgery for congenital nail deformities
Authors: Richert B , Choffray A , De La Brassinne M 
Published: November 2008

SummaryOnly a few nail dystrophies may be improved by surgery: malalignment of the big toenail, racquet thumbs, trapezoidal nails, and vertical implantation of the nail on the fifth toe. Knowledge of the surgical management of these deformities may allow a nice cosmetic outcome if performed by skilled surgeons.
Cross‐National Burden of Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East
Authors: Hoffman Deborah L. , Sadosky Alesia , Alvir Jose 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe burden of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes. This study expanded on the human burden of painful DPN by quantifying functional and health status impairments among international patients from a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of painful DPN. Evaluated outcomes measures included: Brief Pain Inventory‐Short Form (mBPI‐sf), EuroQOL 5D, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale. Outcomes were stratified by pain severity using cut‐points: 0 to 10 numeric rating scale (NRS) for average pain (0 to 3: none/mild, 4 to 6: moderate, 7 to 10: severe). Study sample is: 401 patients (163 in Asia, 110 in Latin America and 128 in the Middle East), mostly female (61%) (± standard deviation, SD), age of 57 ± 10 years. Participants reported at least moderate levels of pain severity (mean [± SD] scores on a 0 to 10 NRS for average pain of 5.9 ± 1.8 for Asia, 6.7 ± 1.6 for Latin America, and 6.6 ± 1.7 for the Middle East).Mean (± SD) values on the mBPI‐sf Pain Interference Index were 4.7 ± 2.3 for Asia, 5.6 ± 2.1 for Latin America, and 5.5 ± 2.3 for the Middle East. Patients in all 3 regions reported difficulties with functioning, sleep, and overall health status, which increased with higher pain severity levels. Patients in Asia had substantial impairments; however, they reported less serious problems than the other regions. These data are consistent with painful DPN being a burdensome condition worldwide: people with poorly managed neuropathic pain report a substantial burden of disease.
The Relation between Epinephrine Concentration and the Anesthetic Effect of Lidocaine Iontophoresis
Authors: Wakita Ryo , Oono Yuka , Oogami Saori , Hayashi Shizuka , Umino Masahiro 
Published: November 2008

AbstractWe assessed the effect of epinephrine at various concentrations on the anesthetic effect during lidocaine iontophoresis. A solution of 2% lidocaine with epinephrine in concentration of 1:80,000, 1:160,000, 1:320,000, 2% lidocaine plain and normal saline control was delivered to the medial antecubital skin for 10 minutes by iontophoresis with 1.0mA of direct current. The pinprick test and the von Frey test were conducted to evaluate anesthetic effect. Pricking pain using visual analogue scale was significantly lower throughout the entire experiment compared with the baseline values and lasted for 60 minutes in groups with 1:80,000 and 1:160,000 epinephrine. The pressure pain thresholds (PPT) and the touch thresholds (TT) were significantly elevated in groups with 1:80,000 and 1:160,000 epinephrine compared with the baseline values. No significant elevations in the PPT and TT values were observed in the other groups. The present study revealed that the anesthetic effect was significantly enhanced in an epinephrine dose‐related manner and the anesthetic effect of 2% lidocaine with 1:160,000 epinephrine was equivalent to the same anesthetic with 1:80,000 epinephrine.
A suppressor of multiple extracellular matrix‐degrading proteases and cancer metastasis
Authors: Yin Lan lan , Chung Chin Man , Chen Jie , Fok Kin Lam , Ng Chuen Pei , Jia Rui Rui , Ren Xuan , Zhou Jiannong , Zhang Tong , Zhao Xiao Hang , Lin Min , Zhu Hu , Zhang Xiao Hu , Tsang Lai Ling , Bi Ye , Zhou Zuomin , Mo Fugen , Wong Nathalie , Chung Yiu Wa , Sha Jiahao , Chan Hsiao Chang 
Published: November 2008

AbstractCancer metastasis remains the most poorly understood process in cancer biology. It involves the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins by a series of ‘tumour‐associated’ proteases. Here we report the identification of a novel protease suppressor, NYD‐SP8, which is located on human chromosome 19q13.2. NYD‐SP8 encodes a 27 kD GPI‐anchored cell surface protein, which shows structural homology to urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR). Co‐immunoprecipitation experiments showed that NYD‐SP8 binds to uPA/uPAR complexes and interfere with active uPA production. Overexpression of NYD‐SP8 results in reducing activities of the three major classes of proteases known to be involved in ECM degradation, including uPA, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cathepsin B, leading to suppression of both in vitro and in vivo cancer cell invasion and metastasis. These data demonstrate an important role of NYD‐SP8 in regulating ECM degradation, providing a novel mechanism that modulates urokinase signalling in the suppression of cancer progression.
Crosstalk between Hsp70 molecular chaperone, lysosomes and proteasomes in autophagy‐mediated proteolysis in human retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Ryhänen Tuomas , Hyttinen Juha M. T. , Kopitz Jürgen , Rilla Kirsi , Kuusisto Erkki , Mannermaa Eliisa , Viiri Johanna , Holmberg Carina I. , Immonen Ilkka , Meri Seppo , Parkkinen Jussi , Eskelinen Eeva‐Liisa , Uusitalo Hannu , Salminen Antero , Kaarniranta Kai 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe pathogenesis of age‐related macular degeneration involves chronic oxidative stress, impaired degradation of membranous discs shed from photoreceptor outer segments and accumulation of lysosomal lipofuscin in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. It has been estimated that a major part of cellular proteolysis occurs in proteasomes, but the importance of proteasomes and the other proteolytic pathways including autophagy in RPE cells is poorly understood. Prior to proteolysis, heat shock proteins (Hsps), agents that function as molecular chaperones, attempt to refold misfolded proteins and thus prevent the accumulation of cytoplasmic protein aggregates. In the present study, the roles of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone and proteasomal and lysosomal proteolytic pathways were evaluated in human RPE cells (ARPE‐19). The Hsp70 and ubiquitin protein levels and localization were analysed by Western blotting and immunofluorescense. Confocal and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect cellular organelles and to evaluate the morphological changes. Hsp70 levels were modulated using RNA interference and overexpression techniques. Cell viability was measured by colorimetric assay. The proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 evoked the accumulation of perinuclear aggregates positive for Hsp70, ubiquitin‐protein conjugates and the lysosomal membrane protein LAMP‐2. Interestingly, the hsp70 mRNA depletion significantly increased cell death in conjunction with proteasome inhibition. We found that the accumulation of lysosomes was reversible: a cessation of proteasome inhibition led to clearance of the deposits via a mechanism believed to include autophagy. The molecular chaperone Hsp70, proteasomes and autophagy have an important regulatory role in the protein turnover of human RPE cells and may thus open new avenues for understanding degenerative processes in retinal cells.
FCGR3A‐158V/F polymorphism may correlate with the levels of immunoglobulin in patients with non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma after rituximab treatment as an adjuvant to autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Nishio Mitsufumi , Endo Tomoyuki , Fujimoto Katsuya , Yamamoto Satoshi , Obara Masato , Yamaguchi Keisuke , Takeda Yukari , Goto Hideki , Kasahara Ikumi , Sato Norihiro , Koike Takao 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectives:  Recent studies have indicated that patients who receive stem cell transplantation (SCT) and rituximab demonstrate an increased risk of developing hypogammaglobulinemia. Such hypogammaglobulinemia has been found to be due to delayed recovery of memory B cells with an abnormal cell marker expression and impaired immunoglobulin production in vitro. However, no predictive factors for the levels of immunoglobulin after autologous SCT and rituximab therapy have been reported. The aim of this study is to clarify the relationships between the FCGR3A‐158V/F genotype and the levels of serum immunoglobulin after SCT.Methods:  A total of 24 non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) patients received autologous SCT with an adjuvant rituximab. The FCGR3A‐158V/F genotype was determined in these patients. We also included ten NHL patients who received an identical conditioning regimen and autologous SCT but no rituximab as control patients.Results:  The levels of IgG were significantly lower in FCGR3A‐158F homozygous patients (n = 9) in comparison to those in FCGR3A‐158V carriers (n = 15). Moreover, the levels of IgG and IgA of FCGR3A‐158F homozygous patients, but not those of FCGR3A‐158V carriers, were significantly lower than those of control patients.Conclusions:  The genotype of FCGR3A determines not only the response to rituximab, but also the levels of immunoglobulin after SCT and an adjuvant rituximab.
Patients with acute coronary syndromes have low tissue factor activity and microparticle count, but normal concentration of tissue factor antigen in platelet free plasma – a pilot study
Authors: Maly Martin , Hrachovinova Ingrid , Tomasov Pavol , Salaj Peter , Hajek Petr , Veselka Josef 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectives:  Tissue factor (TF) is a main initiator of coagulation cascade. Its determination in conditions of acute coronary syndrome is logistically difficult. Hence, in our study, the activity and the concentration of TF and the count of microparticles in the platelet free plasma (PFP) were determined.Methods:  Blood was drawn from both coronary sinus and femoral vein circulation in a cohort of 40 patients. TF activity was measured by activation of factor X in the presence of factor VIIa, whereas microparticles were detected using flow cytometry. TF antigen concentrations were determined using the ELISA test.Results:  TF activity in the stable angina subgroup was not significantly different from the control group (18.12 ± 3.35 mOD/min vs. 17.72 ± 4.05 mOD/min, respectively), but it was significantly lower in the unstable angina (7.62 ± 4.19 mOD/min) and myocardial infarction (MI) (3.56 ± 3.85 mOD/min) subgroups (P < 0.05). Results from the coronary sinus and femoral vein circulations were not significantly different. The count of microparticles decreased according to the severity of the acute coronary syndrome: control group, 520 ± 172; stable angina subgroup, 532 ± 167; unstable angina subgroup, 392 ± 142; and MI subgroup, 165 ± 30 (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in concentrations of TF antigen in four subgroups.Conclusions:  These results suggest that the procoagulant TF‐bearing microparticles could be recruited from PFP by interaction with platelets and blood cells in the conditions of acute coronary syndrome.
Aberrant methylation of the death‐associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) CpG island in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Qian Jun , Wang Ya‐li , Lin Jiang , Yao Dong‐ming , Xu Wen‐rong , Wu Chao‐yang 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe death‐associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) gene is a candidate tumor suppressor (TSG) and the abnormal methylation of DAPK1 gene has been found in many carcinomas. The epigenetic changes of TSGs are now recognized as a mechanism contributing to the development of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). To clarify the role of DAPK1 in CML, we examined the methylation status of DAPK1 in 49 patients with CML using methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction. The aberrant methylation of the DAPK1 gene was found in 25 of 49 (51.0%) CML cases, not in all controls. No correlation was found between DAPK1 gene methylation and the age, hematologic parameters, chromosomal abnormalities, the types and levels of bcr/abl transcripts of CML patients. However, correlation could be observed between the sex and the status of DAPK1 methylation in CML patients (R = 0.374, P = 0.008). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between DAPK1 methylation and the stages of CML (R = 0.354, P = 0.013). The CML patients in accelerated phase (AP) and blast crisis (BC) had higher frequency of DAPK1 methylation than those in chronic phase (CP) (75.0% vs. 34.5%) (χ2 = 7.776, P = 0.005). In one patient, the status of DAPK1 methylation became positive on the transition from CP to AP and BC. These results suggested that DAPK1 promoter methylation might play a significant role in the progression of CML.
Considerations in the treatment of multiple myeloma: a consensus statement from Italian experts
Authors: Patriarca Francesca , Petrucci Maria T. , Bringhen Sara. , Baldini Luca , Caravita Tommaso , Corradini Paolo , Corso Alessandro , Di Raimondo Francesco , Falcone Antonietta , Ferrara Felicetto , Morabito Fortunato , Musto Pellegrino , Offidani Massimo , Petrini Mario , Rizzi Rita , Semenzato Gianpietro , Tosi Patrizia , Vacca Angelo , Cavo Michele , Boccadoro Mario , Palumbo Antonio 
Published: November 2008

AbstractPurpose and basic procedure of the study:  The availability of new targeted therapies has revolutionised the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), for both the newly diagnosed and the relapsed and refractory settings. A panel of Italian experts provided guidelines for optimal clinical practice in the treatment of MM.Main findings and conclusions:  The panel recommended that treatment should only be initiated in symptomatic patients. Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) with melphalan is the treatment of choice in patients younger than 65 yr, and induction therapy including new drugs seems the most suitable preparatory regimen before ASCT. In patients who fail to achieve at least a very good partial response (VGPR) after transplant, a consolidation with a second transplant is of clinical benefit. Also, there is evidence that maintenance with thalidomide after ASCT in young patients failing to reach at least VGPR could prolong survival. In elderly patients, the combination of an alkylating drug with a novel agent should be considered as standard approach. Relapsed MM should be retreated after the reappearance of symptoms and signs of organ and tissue damage. Salvage regimens should include corticosteroids plus bortezomib, thalidomide or lenalidomide.
Generalized cutis laxa and fibrillar glomerulopathy resulting from IgG Deposition in IgG‐lambda Monoclonal Gammopathy: pulmonary hemorrhage during stem cell mobilization and complete hematological response with bortezomib and dexamethasone therapy
Authors: De Larrea Carlos Fernández , Rovira Montserrat , Mascaró Jr. José M. , Torras Albert , Solé Manel , Lloreta Josep , Serra Núria , Cibeira Maria Teresa , Bladé Joan 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe case of a 52‐years‐old man with generalized acquired cutis laxa associated with IgG‐lambda monoclonal gammopathy and nephrotic syndrome with renal failure (due to fibrillar glomerulopathy resulting from IgG deposition) is reported. A peripheral blood autologous stem cell transplant was planned, but the procedure was complicated by severe pulmonary hemorrhage during stem cells mobilization with granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF). Treatment with bortezomib and dexamethasome was subsequently started and a complete hematological response was achieved. Finally, the complete hematological response with the disappearance of the toxic M‐protein allows the possibility of a long‐term benefit with a kidney transplant followed by an autologous bone marrow transplant.
MHC haplotype frequencies in a UK breeding colony of Mauritian cynomolgus macaques mirror those found in a distinct population from the same geographic origin
Authors: Mee Edward T. , Badhan Anjna , Karl Julie A. , Wiseman Roger W. , Cutler Keith , Knapp Leslie A. , Almond Neil , O’Connor David H. , Rose Nicola J. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractBackground  Mauritian cynomolgus macaques have greatly restricted genetic diversity in the MHC region compared to other non‐human primates; however, the frequency of common MHC haplotypes among captive‐bred populations has not been reported.Methods  Microsatellite PCR was used to determine MHC haplotype frequencies among captive macaques at a UK breeding facility. Allele‐specific PCR and reference strand conformational analysis were used to determine the allele expression profile of a subset of animals.Results  Haplotypes H3 (21%) and H1 (19%) were most common in the captive population of Mauritian cynomolgus macaques. Predicted alleles were detected by allele‐specific PCR‐SSP in 98% of animals. Allele expression profiles were similar in animals with identical haplotypes.Conclusions  Mauritian cynomolgus macaques in the UK breeding facility have restricted MHC diversity comparable to a previously described population. Microsatellite‐derived haplotypes are highly predictive of allele expression. A selective breeding program has been established to produce MHC‐identical animals for biomedical research.
The effect of long‐term streptozotocin‐induced diabetes mellitus (STZ‐DM) on cynomolgus (Macaca Fascicularis) monkeys
Authors: Wu D. , Zou C. , Yue F. , Li X. , Li S. , Zhang Y.A. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractBackground  This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the effect of long‐term streptozotocin‐induced diabetes mellitus (STZ‐DM) on adolescent cynomolgus monkeys.Methods  A total of 12 monkeys (six STZ‐DM and six controls) were monitored for fasting glucose levels and locomotor activities, tested for hematological and serum parameters, measured for body weight and somatometric values.Results  Fasting glucose was maintained at high levels in STZ‐DM monkeys. At the age when normal adolescent monkeys dramatically increased their weight, STZ‐DM led to the retardation of weight increase in diabetic monkeys. Moreover, STZ‐DM monkeys showed abnormal lipid levels and somatometric measurements. In locomotor activity test, STZ‐DM monkeys were more active than control ones.Conclusions  Long‐term STZ‐DM disrupts the normal growth of young monkeys and interferes with some aspects of hormone, lipid metabolism and physical activities. Mean plasma glucose (MPG) appeared to be an important factor in physical activity abnormalities of STZ‐DM monkeys.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Paternal Cell Immunization Raises Autoantibodies and Improves Pregnancy Success in Mice
Authors: Barjaktarevic Igor , Vukmanovic Stanislav 
Published: November 2008

Problem  Autoimmunity and alloimmunity are thought to be the bases of some recurrent miscarriages. Paternal cell immunization was used with varying success as the treatment of allo‐immune‐mediated recurrent miscarriages.Method of study  Female mice immunized with paternal cells were assessed for development of male‐specific antibodies and autoantibodies. Pregnancy success rates were compared between immunized and control mice.Results  The immunization with male cells resulted in an increase in the number of successful pregnancies without affecting the size of the litter. Surprisingly, paternal cell injections before the pregnancy induced mostly autoantibodies, rather than male‐specific antibodies.Conclusion  These findings suggest that autoantibodies may have a protective, rather than damaging role in promoting pregnancy.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Development of Human Graafian Follicles Following Transplantation of Human Ovarian Tissue into NOD/SCID/γcnull Mice
Authors: Terada Yukihiro , Terunuma‐Sato Yumi , Kakoi‐Yoshimoto Tomoko , Hasegawa Hisataka , Ugajin Tomohisa , Koyanagi Yoshio , Ito Mamoru , Murakami Takashi , Sasano Hironobu , Yaegashi Nobuo , Okamura Kunihiro 
Published: November 2008

Problem  Transplantation of human ovarian cortex into host mice may permit various kinds of challenges in reproductive medicine. A novel immunodeficient mouse strain (NOD/SCID/γcnull: NOG) has been developed as a host of transplantation of human tissue.Method of study  Human ovarian cortex was transplanted into various sites of NOG mice and human follicular development was examined by immunohistochemistry.Results  Transplantation of human ovarian tissue into NOG mice resulted in approximately similar tissue survival and follicle growth as did transplantation into non‐obese diabetic‐severe combined immunodeficient mice. The human Graafian follicule from NOG mouse expressed the same steroidogenic enzymes as observed in human Graafian follicles, which developed in the human body. The NOG mice’s ovarian bursa was better placed for transplantation than the back skin or kidney capsule.Conclusion  These results represent the successful generation and biological confirmation of the human Graafian follicles from the human ovarian cortex in the NOG mice.