Conceptual Complexity and Obsessionality in Bulimic College Women.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Nancy S.; Holloway, Elizabeth L.

1988-01-01

Examined relationship between bulimia, conceptual complexity, obsessional symptoms, and obsessional traits in 54 college women classified as bulimic-anorexic vomiters, normal-weight bulimic vomiters, clinical controls, and normal controls. Found both bulimic groups exhibited significantly lower levels of conceptual functioning, significantly…

Reduced blood levels of reelin as a vulnerability factor in pathophysiology of autistic disorder.

PubMed

Fatemi, S Hossein; Stary, Joel M; Egan, Elizabeth Ann

2002-04-01

1. Autism is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with potential genetic and environmental etiologies. Recent genetic linkage reports and biochemical analysis of postmortem autistic cerebellum point to Reelin, an important secretory extracellular protein, as being involved in the pathology of autism. 2. We hypothesized that blood levels of Reelin and its isoforms would be altered in autistic twins, and their first degree relatives versus normal controls. 3. We measured blood levels of unprocessed Reelin (410 kDa) and its proteolytic cleavage products (Reelins 330 and 180 kDa) as well as albumin and ceruloplasmin in 28 autistic individuals, their parents (13 fathers, 13 mothers), 6 normal siblings, and 8 normal controls using SDS-PAGE and western blotting. 4. Results indicated significant reductions in 410 kDa Reelin species in autistic twins (-70%, p < 0.01), their fathers (-62%, p < 0.01), their mothers (-72%, p < 0.01), and their phenotypically normal siblings (-70%, p < 0.01) versus controls. Reelin 330 kDa values did not vary significantly from controls. Reelin 180 kDa values for parents (fathers -32% p < 0.05 vs. controls, mothers -34%) declined when compared to controls. In contrast autistic Reelin 180 kDa increased, albeit nonsignificantly versus controls. Albumin and ceruloplasmin values for autistics and their first degree relatives did not vary significantly from controls. There were no significant meaningful correlations between Reelin, albumin and ceruloplasmin levels, age, sex, ADI scores, or age of onset. 5. These results suggest that Reelin 410 deficiency may be a vulnerability factor in the pathology of autism.

The platelet-poor plasma 5-HT response to carbohydrate rich meal administration in adult autistic patients compared with normal controls.

PubMed

Vered, Yaffa; Golubchik, Pavel; Mozes, Tamar; Strous, Rael; Nechmad, Allon; Mester, Roberto; Weizman, Abraham; Spivak, Baruch

2003-07-01

There are cumulative data indicating involvement of the 5-HT system in autistic disorder. Most studies examining 5-HT function have focused on whole blood 5-HT content. The carbohydrate-rich meal test (CRMT) is a dietary manipulation that could significantly influence platelet-poor plasma (PPP) 5-HT levels and reflect the responsiveness of the serotonergic system in 'free' plasma. In this study, CRMT was used as an indicator of 5-HT responsivity in drug-free adults with autistic disorder (n = 7), compared with normal controls (n = 10). The PPP 5-HT levels were measured at baseline and during 3 h after administration of the CRMT. A significant elevation in PPP 5-HT levels in adult autistic patients was reached 60 min after meal administration (p < 0.03 vs control and p = 0.05 vs baseline) and a significant decrease was noted after 120 min (p < 0.01 vs baseline). In contrast to the biphasic response of the autistic patients, normal controls exhibited a gradual linear increase of PPP 5-HT levels. Our results indicate that in adult autistic patients, the pattern of PPP 5-HT responsivity to a dietary challenge of CRMT is dysregulated compared with normal controls and provide further support for the role of 5-HT in autism. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Relationship between vitamin D, osteoporotic fracture and falls.

PubMed

Candel Romero, Carmen; Forner Cordero, Ángeles; Sánchez Santos, José Cristóbal; Pereiró Berenguer, Inmaculada

2017-11-22

Link low levels of vitamin D, osteoporotic fracture and falls. Transversal observational study with the study variables of age, levels of vitamin D, osteoporotic fracture and falls. The study population was patients evaluated by the Rehabilitation Department, Hospital of Sagunto, from January 2013 to December 2014. Of the 242 patients who underwent vitamin D analysis, 70.6% showed levels under 30ng/ml. Forty-eight percent of the patients with below normal levels of vitamin D suffered a fracture, opposed to 32.4% patients with normal levels. Thus, controlling by age, patients with low levels of vitamin D are 4.8 times more likely to suffer a fracture than those with normal levels. Regarding falls, controlling by age, there is a higher risk of falling (adjusted OR 2.68) in those patients with low levels of vitamin D. Patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to suffer falls and fractures. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Relationship between adiponectin levels, acylated ghrelin levels, and short-term body mass index changes in children with diabetes mellitus type 1 at diagnosis and after insulin therapy.

PubMed

Martos-Moreno, Gabriel A; Barrios, Vicente; Soriano-Guillén, Leandro; Argente, Jesús

2006-11-01

To determine the effect of the initial metabolic imbalance and its restoration after insulin therapy on adiponectin and acylated ghrelin levels in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Twenty prepubertal children with newly diagnosed T1DM were prospectively studied at diagnosis and after 1 and 4 months of therapy. Body mass index (BMI) and serum levels of adiponectin, resistin, total and acylated ghrelin, leptin, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined. The control group comprised 40 healthy prepubertal children. BMI was decreased at diagnosis, normalized at 1 month, and remained so thereafter. Adiponectin levels at diagnosis were similar to controls, increasing significantly after 1 month and normalizing at 4 months. Acylated ghrelin levels were lower at diagnosis, with a significant increase at 1 month and normalizing at 4 months. Resistin levels were normal at all time points. Leptin levels were decreased, while TNF-alpha and IL-6 were increased at diagnosis and normalized at 1 month. These findings suggest that BMI is not the main predictor of acylated ghrelin or adiponectin levels in newly diagnosed T1DM subjects and that these peptides may play an important role in the metabolic adaptation in this disease.

Low empathy in deaf and hard of hearing (pre)adolescents compared to normal hearing controls.

PubMed

Netten, Anouk P; Rieffe, Carolien; Theunissen, Stephanie C P M; Soede, Wim; Dirks, Evelien; Briaire, Jeroen J; Frijns, Johan H M

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the level of empathy in deaf and hard of hearing (pre)adolescents compared to normal hearing controls and to define the influence of language and various hearing loss characteristics on the development of empathy. The study group (mean age 11.9 years) consisted of 122 deaf and hard of hearing children (52 children with cochlear implants and 70 children with conventional hearing aids) and 162 normal hearing children. The two groups were compared using self-reports, a parent-report and observation tasks to rate the children's level of empathy, their attendance to others' emotions, emotion recognition, and supportive behavior. Deaf and hard of hearing children reported lower levels of cognitive empathy and prosocial motivation than normal hearing children, regardless of their type of hearing device. The level of emotion recognition was equal in both groups. During observations, deaf and hard of hearing children showed more attention to the emotion evoking events but less supportive behavior compared to their normal hearing peers. Deaf and hard of hearing children attending mainstream education or using oral language show higher levels of cognitive empathy and prosocial motivation than deaf and hard of hearing children who use sign (supported) language or attend special education. However, they are still outperformed by normal hearing children. Deaf and hard of hearing children, especially those in special education, show lower levels of empathy than normal hearing children, which can have consequences for initiating and maintaining relationships.

Sex differences in plasma homovanillic acid levels in schizophrenia and normal controls: relation to neuroleptic resistance.

PubMed

Sumiyoshi, T; Hasegawa, M; Jayathilake, K; Meltzer, H Y

1997-03-01

Plasma homovanillic acid (pHVA) levels were compared in a large number of neuroleptic-resistant and -responsive schizophrenic patients (male/female = 161/46) and normal controls (67/27), and correlated with various measures of psychopathology. Psychopathology was evaluated with the brief psychiatric rating scale, the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Change version (SADS-C) and SADS-C Global Assessment Scale, the Scale for Assessment of Negative Symptoms, the Scale for Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS), and the Quality of Life Scale. No significant differences in pHVA levels between neuroleptic-resistant (n = 104) or -responsive (n = 103) schizophrenic patients, and normal controls, were found; however, there was a main effect for sex, due to higher pHVA levels in women than men. There were no diagnosis x gender or age effects on pHVA levels. No significant correlations were observed between psychopathology ratings and baseline pHVA levels, except with the Hallucinations subscale of SAPS in neuroleptic-responsive patients. Neither duration of neuroleptic washout nor plasma prolactin levels correlated with pHVA levels. Further studies on the origin and significance of the gender difference in pHVA are indicated.

Total Antioxidant Status in Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Palestine.

PubMed

Kharroubi, Akram T; Darwish, Hisham M; Akkawi, Mutaz A; Ashareef, Abdelkareem A; Almasri, Zaher A; Bader, Khaldoun A; Khammash, Umaiyeh M

2015-01-01

The objective of this study was to compare the level of total antioxidant status (TAS) in type 2 diabetic and normal Palestinian subjects as well as the major factors influencing TAS levels. A sample of convenience composed of 212 type 2 diabetic and 208 normal subjects above the age of 40 were recruited. Only 9.8% of the subjects had normal body mass index (BMI) levels (<25), 29% were overweight (≥25 to <30), and 61.2% were obese (≥30). The mean levels of TAS were significantly higher in diabetic compared to control subjects (2.18 versus 1.84 mM Trolox, P = 0.001) and in hypertensive subjects compared to subjects with normal blood pressure (BP). Mean TAS levels were higher in obese compared to nonobese subjects (2.12 versus 1.85 mM Trolox, P = 0.001). Mean TAS levels were similarly higher in subjects with high fasting plasma glucose (FPG) compared to normal FPG (2.19 versus 1.90 mM Trolox) and high HbA1c (≥6.5%) compared to HbA1c < 6.5% (2.14 versus 1.91 mM Trolox). Multivariate analysis revealed that only diabetic status (P = 0.032) and the level of education (P = 0.036) were significantly associated with TAS. In conclusion diabetic patients had 18.5% increase in TAS levels compared to control subjects.

Natalizumab Modifies Catecholamines Levels Present in Patients with Relapsing- Remitting Multiple Sclerosis.

PubMed

Escribano, Begona M; Aguilar-Luque, Macarena; Bahamonde, Carmen; Conde, Cristina; Lillo, Rafael; Sanchez-Lopez, Fernando; Giraldo, Ana I; Cruz, Antonio H; Luque, Evelio; Gascon, Felix; Aguera, Eduardo; Tunez, Isaac

2016-01-01

The main aim of this study was to verify the effect of natalizumab on the levels of circulating catecholamines and indolamine and their possible relation with MS. For this purpose, 12 healthy individuals (control group) and 12 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients (RR-MS) were selected. The patients were treated with 300 mg of natalizumab during 56 weeks (1 dose/4 weeks) (MS-56). This selection was based on the McDonalds revision criterion and scheduled to star treatment with natalizumab. Blood samples were taken before treatment (basal level) and after 56 weeks of using natalizumab. Melatonin was measured in serum and in plasma, catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine), carbonylated proteins, 8-hydroxy-2'deoxyguanosine (8OH-dG) and the ratio reduced glutathione/oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG). The epinephrine and dopamine levels diminished in the basal group with respect to the control and did not recover normal levels with the treatment. The melatonin was decreased in RR-MS patients and went back to its normal levels with natalizumab. Norepinephrine was increased in RR-MS and decreased in MS-56 until it equalled the control group. Natalizumab normalizes altered melatonin and norepinephrine levels in MS.

Treatment model of dengue hemorrhagic fever infection in human body

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handayani, D.; Nuraini, N.; Primasari, N.; Wijaya, K. P.

2014-03-01

The treatment model of DHF presented in this paper involves the dynamic of five time-dependent compartments, i.e. susceptible, infected, free virus particle, immune cell, and haematocrit level. The treatment model is investigated based on normalization of haematocrit level, which is expressed as intravenous fluid infusion control. We analyze the stability of the disease free equilibrium and the endemic equilibrium. The numerical simulations will explain the dynamic of each compartment in human body. These results show particularly that infected compartment and free virus particle compartment are tend to be vanished in two weeks after the onset of dengue virus. However, these simulation results also show that without the treatment, the haematocrit level will decrease even though not up to the normal level. Therefore the effective haematocrit normalization should be done with the treatment control.

Blood Levels of Trace Elements in Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Results from a Case-Control Study.

PubMed

Yang, Rongwang; Zhang, Yanyi; Gao, Weijia; Lin, Nannan; Li, Rong; Zhao, Zhengyan

2018-06-16

Some trace elements may participate in the pathogenesis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to investigate the trace element status of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), and lead (Pb) in children with ADHD, and to compare them with normal controls. Associations between examined elements and SNAP-IV rating scores of ADHD symptoms were also assessed. Four hundred nineteen children with ADHD (8.8 ± 2.1 years) and 395 matched normal controls (8.9 ± 1.7 years) were recruited in the study. The concentrations of Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and Pb in the whole blood were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Lower zinc levels (P < 0.001) and the number out of normal ranges (P = 0.015) were found in children with ADHD when compared with the normal control group. The difference remained when adjusting the factor of BMI z-score. No significant between-group differences were found in levels of other elements. Zinc levels were negatively correlated with parent-rated scores of inattentive subscale of SNAP-IV (r = - 0.40) as well as with total score of SNAP-IV (r = - 0.24). Other significant associations were not observed. The present results indicated that there were alterations in blood levels of zinc, which was associated with the symptom scores of ADHD.

Low Empathy in Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Pre)Adolescents Compared to Normal Hearing Controls

PubMed Central

Netten, Anouk P.; Rieffe, Carolien; Theunissen, Stephanie C. P. M.; Soede, Wim; Dirks, Evelien; Briaire, Jeroen J.; Frijns, Johan H. M.

2015-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the level of empathy in deaf and hard of hearing (pre)adolescents compared to normal hearing controls and to define the influence of language and various hearing loss characteristics on the development of empathy. Methods The study group (mean age 11.9 years) consisted of 122 deaf and hard of hearing children (52 children with cochlear implants and 70 children with conventional hearing aids) and 162 normal hearing children. The two groups were compared using self-reports, a parent-report and observation tasks to rate the children’s level of empathy, their attendance to others’ emotions, emotion recognition, and supportive behavior. Results Deaf and hard of hearing children reported lower levels of cognitive empathy and prosocial motivation than normal hearing children, regardless of their type of hearing device. The level of emotion recognition was equal in both groups. During observations, deaf and hard of hearing children showed more attention to the emotion evoking events but less supportive behavior compared to their normal hearing peers. Deaf and hard of hearing children attending mainstream education or using oral language show higher levels of cognitive empathy and prosocial motivation than deaf and hard of hearing children who use sign (supported) language or attend special education. However, they are still outperformed by normal hearing children. Conclusions Deaf and hard of hearing children, especially those in special education, show lower levels of empathy than normal hearing children, which can have consequences for initiating and maintaining relationships. PMID:25906365

[Mechanism study on leptin resistance in lung cancer cachexia rats treated by Xiaoyan Decoction].

PubMed

Zhang, Yun-Chao; Jia, Ying-Jie; Yang, Pei-Ying; Zhang, Xing; Li, Xiao-Jiang; Zhang, Ying; Zhu, Jin-Li; Sun, Yi-Yu; Chen, Jun; Duan, Hao-Guo; Guo, Hua; Li, Chao

2014-12-01

To study the leptin resistance mechanism of Xiaoyan Decoction (XD) in lung cancer cachexia (LCC) rats. An LCC rat model was established. Totally 40 rats were randomly divided into the normal control group, the LCC model group, the XD group, and the positive control group, 10 in each group. After LCC model was set up, rats in the LCC model group were administered with normal saline, 2 mL each time. Rats in the XD group were administered with XD at the daily dose of 2 mL. Those in the positive control group were administered with Medroxyprogesterone Acetate suspension (20 mg/kg) by gastrogavage at the daily dose of 2 mL. All medication lasted for 14 days. The general condition and tumor growth were observed. Serum levels of leptin and leptin receptor in the hypothalamus were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Contents of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and anorexia for genomic POMC were detected using real-time PCR technique. Serum leptin levels were lower in the LCC model group than in the normal control group with statistical significance (P < 0.05). Compared with the LCC model groups, serum leptin levels significantly increased in the XD group (P < 0.01). Leptin receptor levels in the hypothalamus increased significantly in the LCC model group (P < 0.01). Increased receptor levels in the LCC model group indicated that either XD or Medroxyprogesterone Acetate could effectively reduce levels of leptin receptor with statistical significance (P < 0.01). There was also statistical difference between the XD group and the positive control group (P < 0.05). Contents of NPY was higher in the LCC model group than in the other groups with statistical difference (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in NPY between the normal control group and the rest 2 treatment groups (P > 0.05). There was statistical difference in POMC between the normal control group and the LCC model group (P < 0.05). POMC could be decreased in the XD group and the positive control group with statistical significance (P < 0.05), and it was more obviously decreased in the XD group (P < 0.05). Leptin resistance existed in LCC rats. XD could increase serum leptin levels and reduce leptin receptor levels in the hypothalamus. LCC could be improved by elevating NPY contents in the hypothalamus and reducing POMC contents, promoting the appetite, and increasing food intake from the periphery pathway and the central pathway.

Low HDL-cholesterol among normal weight, normoglycemic offspring of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Praveen, Edavan P; Kulshreshtha, Bindu; Khurana, Madan L; Sahoo, Jayaprakash; Gupta, Nandita; Kumar, Guresh; Ammini, Ariachery; Knadgawat, Rajech

2011-01-01

Offspring of type 2 diabetics have an increased risk of dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance and obesity. The aim of this study was to assess the lipid levels in the offspring of diabetics with normal glucose tolerance and normal body weight. Normal weight offspring of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) who had normal glucose tolerance, and healthy gender matched controls of comparable age without a family history of diabetes mellitus, were the subjects of this study. Lipid profiles were determined in cases and controls. The study included 114 subjects (64 males and 50 females) in each group, aged (mean ± SD) 24.0 ± 7.9 in cases and 24.1 ± 8.0 years in controls. The body mass index (BMI) was 20.8 ± 3.0 and 20.2 ± 3.1 kg/m2 in cases and controls, respectively. Serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, plasma glucose, fasting insulin, C-peptide and proinsulin levels were comparable in cases and controls. Serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was lower (p <0.001), whilst the serum triglyceride/HDL ratio, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and area under the curve for insulin and proinsulin during an oral glucose tolerance test were higher in cases compared to controls. HDL cholesterol showed no significant correlation with plasma glucose, insulin or proinsulin. Plasma HDL cholesterol is low among normal weight, normoglycemic offspring of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The implications of this finding are not apparent.

Bombesin and G-17 dose responses in duodenal ulcer and controls.

PubMed

Hirschowitz, B I; Tim, L O; Helman, C A; Molina, E

1985-11-01

Gastric acid and pepsin secretion and serum gastrin concentrations were measured in nine patients with uncomplicated duodenal ulcer (DU) and 10 normal controls in the fasting state and in response to graded doses of bombesin, a tetradecapeptide gastrin releaser, and, for reference, synthetic gastrin G-17. Serum gastrin with bombesin stimulation was significantly greater in duodenal ulcer (maximum 467 pg/ml) than in controls (153 pg/ml), while in seven of the DU group tested gastrin levels after a meal were not different from that seen in five of the normal controls. Gastric acid concentrations and outputs were greater in duodenal ulcer with both stimuli. Secretory responses were then related to serum gastrin levels; despite increasing gastrin levels with bombesin stimulation, peak outputs achieved with bombesin were only 50% of G-17 maximum in normals and up to 90% of maximum in duodenal ulcer. Up to the point of peak response to bombesin, acid and pepsin outputs were the same with exogenous and endogenous gastrin, ie, bombesin acted only via G-17. Furthermore, in direct comparison of duodenal ulcer and normals with G-17 infusion, acid and pepsin outputs related to serum gastrin were congruent up to 75% of duodenal ulcer maximum, at which point normals reached their maximum level. These data have shown that duodenal ulcer patients are not more sensitive to either exogenous or endogenous gastrin; we have also shown regulatory defects in duodenal ulcer patients not previously described: an exaggerated release of gastrin with bombesin stimulation, and a defective inhibition of acid and pepsin secretion with higher doses of bombesin.

Plasma homovanillic acid in the prodromal phase of schizophrenia.

PubMed

Sumiyoshi, T; Kurachi, M; Kurokawa, K; Yotsutsuji, T; Uehara, T; Itoh, H; Saitoh, O

2000-03-01

Plasma levels of homovanillic acid (pHVA) have been used as a peripheral measure of central dopaminergic activity. Despite a large body of studies investigating pHVA in schizophrenia, little is known about pHVA in patients in the prodromal phase of the illness. Plasma HVA levels of 12 male outpatients meeting DSM-III-R criteria for the prodromal phase of schizophrenia at the time of blood sampling (who later developed psychotic symptoms) were compared with those of 12 normal male healthy volunteers. Task amounts in the Kraepelin arithmetic test at the time of blood sampling were compared between the prodromal patients and normal controls and were correlated with pHVA levels. The prodromal patients had significantly higher pHVA levels compared with normal control subjects. The mean amount of the arithmetic task for the prodromal patients was significantly less than that for controls. In the patient group, a significant negative correlation was observed between pHVA levels and the task amounts. Data from the present study indicate the presence of dopaminergic dysfunction in the prodromal stage of schizophrenia that is associated with neuropsychological impairment. Increased pHVA levels in the prodromal patients may have implications for early detection of schizophrenia.

William's syndrome: gene expression is related to parental origin and regional coordinate control

PubMed Central

Collette, Jeremy C; Chen, Xiao-Ning; Mills, Debra L; Galaburda, Albert M; Reiss, Allan L; Bellugi, Ursula; Korenberg, Julie R

2013-01-01

William's syndrome (WS) features a spectrum of neurocognitive and behavioral abnormalities due to a rare 1.5MB deletion that includes about 24–28 genes on chromosome band 7q11.23. Study of the expression of these genes from the single normal copy provides an opportunity to elucidate the genetic and epigenetic controls on these genes as well as their roles in both WS and normal brain development and function. We used quantitative RT-PCR to determine the transcriptional level of 14 WS gene markers in a cohort of 77 persons with WS and 48 normal controls. Results reported here: (1) show that the expression of the genes deleted in WS is decreased in some but not all cases, (2) demonstrate that the parental origin of the deletion contributes to the level of expression of GTF2I independently of age and gender and (3) indicate that the correlation of expression between GTF2I and some other genes in the WS region differs in WS subjects and normal controls, which in turn points toward a regulatory role for this gene. Interspecies comparisons suggest GTF2I may play a key role in normal brain development. PMID:19282872

The nuclear receptor corepressor (NCoR) controls thyroid hormone sensitivity and the set point of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis.

PubMed

Astapova, Inna; Vella, Kristen R; Ramadoss, Preeti; Holtz, Kaila A; Rodwin, Benjamin A; Liao, Xiao-Hui; Weiss, Roy E; Rosenberg, Michael A; Rosenzweig, Anthony; Hollenberg, Anthony N

2011-02-01

The role of nuclear receptor corepressor (NCoR) in thyroid hormone (TH) action has been difficult to discern because global deletion of NCoR is embryonic lethal. To circumvent this, we developed mice that globally express a modified NCoR protein (NCoRΔID) that cannot be recruited to the thyroid hormone receptor (TR). These mice present with low serum T(4) and T(3) concentrations accompanied by normal TSH levels, suggesting central hypothyroidism. However, they grow normally and have increased energy expenditure and normal or elevated TR-target gene expression across multiple tissues, which is not consistent with hypothyroidism. Although these findings imply an increased peripheral sensitivity to TH, the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis is not more sensitive to acute changes in TH concentrations but appears to be reset to recognize the reduced TH levels as normal. Furthermore, the thyroid gland itself, although normal in size, has reduced levels of nonthyroglobulin-bound T(4) and T(3) and demonstrates decreased responsiveness to TSH. Thus, the TR-NCoR interaction controls systemic TH sensitivity as well as the set point at all levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. These findings suggest that NCoR levels could alter cell-specific TH action that would not be reflected by the serum TSH.

Therapeutic role of Cuminum cyminum on ethanol and thermally oxidized sunflower oil induced toxicity.

PubMed

Aruna, K; Rukkumani, R; Varma, P Suresh; Menon, Venugopal P

2005-05-01

Ethanol is one of the most widely used and abused drugs, increasing lipid levels in humans and experimental animals. Heating of oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) produces various lipid peroxidative end products that can aggravate the pathological changes produced by ethanol. In the present communication, the effect of Cuminum cyminum was investigated on alcohol and thermally oxidized oil induced hyperlipidaemia. The results showed increased activity of aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and increased levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids in the plasma of rats given alcohol, thermally oxidized oil and alcohol+thermally oxidized oil when compared with the normal control group. The levels of tissue (liver and kidney) cholesterol and triglycerides were increased significantly in rats groups given alcohol, thermally oxidized oil and alcohol+thermally oxidized oil when compared with the normal control rats. The levels were decreased when cumin was given along with alcohol and thermally oxidized oil. The level of phospholipids decreased significantly in the liver and kidney of groups given alcohol, thermally oxidized oil and alcohol+thermally oridized oil when compared with the normal control rats. The level increased when cumin was administered along with alcohol and thermally oxidized oil. The activity of phospholipase A and C increased significantly in the liver of groups given alcohol, thermally oxidized oil and alcohol+thermally oxidized oil when compared with the normal control rats, whereas the activity was decreased with the cumin treatment. The results obtained indicate that cumin can decrease the lipid levels in alcohol and thermally oxidized oil induced hepatotoxicity. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Experimental murine myopia induces collagen type Iα1 (COL1A1) DNA methylation and altered COL1A1 messenger RNA expression in sclera

PubMed Central

Zhou, Xiangtian; Ji, Fengtao; An, Jianhong; Zhao, Fuxin; Shi, Fanjun; Huang, Furong; Li, Yuan; Jiao, Shiming; Yan, Dongsheng; Chen, Xiaoyan; Chen, JiangFan

2012-01-01

Purpose To investigate whether myopia development is associated with changes of scleral DNA methylation in cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites in the collagen 1A1 (COL1A1) promoter and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels following murine form deprivation myopia. Methods Fifty-seven C57BL/6 mice (postnatal day 23) were randomly assigned to four groups: (1) monocular form deprivation (MD) in which a diffuser lens was placed over one eye for 28 days; (2) normal controls without MD; (3) MD recovery in which the diffuser lens was removed for seven days; and (4) MD recovery normal controls. The DNA methylation pattern in COL1A1 promoter and exon 1 was determined by bisulfite DNA sequencing, and the COL1A1 mRNA level in sclera was determined by quantitative PCR. Results MD was found to induce myopia in the treated eyes. Six CpG sites in the promoter and exon 1 region of COL1A1 were methylated with significantly higher frequency in the treated eyes than normal control eyes (p<0.05), with CpG island methylation in MD-contralateral eyes being intermediate. Consistent with the CpG methylation, scleral COL1A1 mRNA was reduced by 57% in the MD-treated eyes compared to normal controls (p<0.05). After seven days of MD recovery, CpG methylation was significantly reduced (p=0.01). The methylation patterns returned to near normal level in five CpG sites, but the sixth was hypomethylated compared to normal controls. Conclusions In parallel with the development of myopia and the reduced COL1A1 mRNA, the frequency of methylation in CpG sites of the COL1A1 promoter/exon 1 increased during MD and returned to near normal during recovery. Thus, hypermethylation of CpG sites in the promoter/exon 1 of COL1A1 may underlie reduced collagen synthesis at the transcriptional level in myopic scleras. PMID:22690110

Zero gravity and cardiovascular homeostasis. The relationship between endogenous hyperprolactinemia and plasma aldosterone

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haber, E.; Re, R. N.; Kourides, I. A.; Weihl, A. C.; Maloof, F.

1978-01-01

Prolactin, thyrotropin and aldosterone were measured by radioimmunoassay and plasma renin activity by the radioimmunoassay of angiotensin I in normal women before and after the intravenous injection of 200 micrograms of thyrotropin releasing hormone. Prolactin increased at 15 minutes following thyrotropin releasing hormone. Plasma renin activity was not different from control levels during the first hour following the administration of thyrotropin releasing hormone, nor did the plasma aldosterone concentration differ significantly from the control levels during this period. However, with upright posture, an increase in aldosterone and in plasma renin activity was noted, demonstrating a normal capacity to secrete aldosterone. Similarly, no change in aldosterone was seen in 9 patients with primary hypothyroidism given thyrotropin releasing hormone, despite the fact that the increase in prolactin was greater than normal. These data demonstrate that acutely or chronically elevated serum prolactin levels do not result in increased plasma aldosterone levels in humans.

Assessment of bone turnover markers and bone mineral density in normal short boys.

PubMed

Gayretli Aydin, Zeynep Gökçe; Bideci, Aysun; Emeksiz, Hamdi C; Çelik, Nurullah; Döğer, Esra; Bukan, Neslihan; Yildiz, Ummügülsüm; Camurdan, Orhun M; Cinaz, Peyami

2015-11-01

To investigate whether there is a change in bone turnover-related biochemical markers and bone mineral density of children with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) in the prepubertal period. We measured serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, 25-OH vitamin D, osteocalcin, osteoprotogerin and urinary deoxypyridinoline levels (D-pyd), and bone mineral density (BMD) in 31 prepubertal boys with CDGP. These children were compared with 22 prepubertal boys with familial short stature (FSS) and 27 normal prepubertal boys. Urinary D-pyd was significantly high in CDGP group as compared to control group (p=0.010). Volumetric BMD did not significantly differ between CDGP, FSS, and control groups (p=0.450). Volumetric BMD and urinary D-pyd levels of FSS and control groups were similar. Mean or median levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, and osteoprotegerin did not significantly differ between CDGP, FSS, and control groups. Our data suggest that prepubertal boys with CDPG have normal bone turnover. However, their significantly higher urinary D-pyd levels relative to those of FSS and control groups might be an indicator of later development of osteoporosis. Therefore, long-term follow-up studies monitoring bone mineral status of prepubertal boys with CDPG from prepuberty to adulthood are needed to better understand bone metabolism of these patients.

Low serum uric acid levels in chronic insomnia patients: A case-control study.

PubMed

Zhao, Kai; Luan, Xiaoqian; Liu, Zhihua; Zhu, Zhuoying; Chen, Huijun; Shen, Huiping; Cai, Yan; Qiu, Huihua; Wang, Qiongzhang; Gu, Yingying; Zhu, Lin; He, Jincai

2017-09-14

Recent studies have demonstrated the presence of oxidative stress in insomnia patients. Uric acid (UA) is regarded as one of the most important antioxidants that may attenuate oxidative stress. The aim of our study was to investigate whether there is an alteration of serum UA levels in chronic insomnia patients. The association between sleep quality and serum UA in chronic insomnia patients was also investigated. We recruited 300 chronic insomnia patients and 300 age- and gender-matched normal controls. The uricase-PAP method was used to measure the concentration of UA both in patient and normal control subjects. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess the sleep quality of chronic insomniac participants. As a result, significantly lower serum UA levels were observed in patients with chronic insomnia when compared with normal control subjects (279.56±65.80 vs. 299.10±61.17μmol/L, t=-3.991, p<0.001). Low serum UA levels were correlated with high PSQI scores in multiple linear regression models (β=-0.322, p<0.001). Our results suggested that low serum UA levels were associated with the presence and severity of chronic insomnia. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Normalization of RNA-seq data using factor analysis of control genes or samples

PubMed Central

Risso, Davide; Ngai, John; Speed, Terence P.; Dudoit, Sandrine

2015-01-01

Normalization of RNA-seq data has proven essential to ensure accurate inference of expression levels. Here we show that usual normalization approaches mostly account for sequencing depth and fail to correct for library preparation and other more-complex unwanted effects. We evaluate the performance of the External RNA Control Consortium (ERCC) spike-in controls and investigate the possibility of using them directly for normalization. We show that the spike-ins are not reliable enough to be used in standard global-scaling or regression-based normalization procedures. We propose a normalization strategy, remove unwanted variation (RUV), that adjusts for nuisance technical effects by performing factor analysis on suitable sets of control genes (e.g., ERCC spike-ins) or samples (e.g., replicate libraries). Our approach leads to more-accurate estimates of expression fold-changes and tests of differential expression compared to state-of-the-art normalization methods. In particular, RUV promises to be valuable for large collaborative projects involving multiple labs, technicians, and/or platforms. PMID:25150836

Comparing the Effects of Particulate Matter on the Ocular Surfaces of Normal Eyes and a Dry Eye Rat Model.

PubMed

Han, Ji Yun; Kang, Boram; Eom, Youngsub; Kim, Hyo Myung; Song, Jong Suk

2017-05-01

To compare the effect of exposure to particulate matter on the ocular surface of normal and experimental dry eye (EDE) rat models. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were used as the particulate matter. Rats were divided into 4 groups: normal control group, TiO2 challenge group of the normal model, EDE control group, and TiO2 challenge group of the EDE model. After 24 hours, corneal clarity was compared and tear samples were collected for quantification of lactate dehydrogenase, MUC5AC, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations. The periorbital tissues were used to evaluate the inflammatory cell infiltration and detect apoptotic cells. The corneal clarity score was greater in the EDE model than in the normal model. The score increased after TiO2 challenge in each group compared with each control group (normal control vs. TiO2 challenge group, 0.0 ± 0.0 vs. 0.8 ± 0.6, P = 0.024; EDE control vs. TiO2 challenge group, 2.2 ± 0.6 vs. 3.8 ± 0.4, P = 0.026). The tear lactate dehydrogenase level and inflammatory cell infiltration on the ocular surface were higher in the EDE model than in the normal model. These measurements increased significantly in both normal and EDE models after TiO2 challenge. The tumor necrosis factor-α levels and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling-positive cells were also higher in the EDE model than in the normal model. TiO2 nanoparticle exposure on the ocular surface had a more prominent effect in the EDE model than it did in the normal model. The ocular surface of dry eyes seems to be more vulnerable to fine dust of air pollution than that of normal eyes.

Hematocrit Level could Reflect Inflammatory Response and Disease Activity in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

PubMed

Yang, Min; Ma, Ning; Fu, Haitao; Wei, Tingting; Tang, Qingqin; Qin, Baodong; Yang, Zaixing; Zhong, Renqian

2015-01-01

The previous study has reported the association of hematocrit (HCT) with inflammation in several diseases. But the role of HCT in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remained unclear. We tried to evaluate the clinical significance of HCT levels in patients with SLE. A retrospective study including 127 adult SLE patients and 146 normal healthy controls was performed. HCT levels between SLE patients and normal healthy controls were compared, and correlations between HCT and clinical characteristics were evaluated. HCT levels in SLE patients were significantly decreased as compared with the normal healthy controls and negatively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP) (r = -0.336, p < 0.01), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (r = -0.332, p < 0.01), and SLEDAI scores (r = -0.376, p < 0.01). HCT levels were also significantly lower in SLE patients with decreased C3 and C4 as compared with those in SLE patients with normal C3 and C4, indicating that HCT was positively correlated with C3 and C4 levels (r = 0.272, p < 0.01; r = 0.273, p < 0.01). HCT was decreased in SLE patients with the presence of anti-Sm and anti-RNP antibodies as compared with those without these auto-antibodies (p = 0.013, p < 0.01). After adjusting RBC count and hemoglobin level, multiple linear regression analysis showed that HCT was independently associated with disease activity in SLE patients. In addition, HCT levels were elevated after treatment. HCT is correlated with CRP, ESR, and SLEDAI, suggesting that HCT could reflect inflammatory response and disease activity in SLE patients.

Efficacy of a church-based lifestyle intervention programme to control high normal blood pressure and/or high normal blood glucose in church members: a randomized controlled trial in Pretoria, South Africa.

PubMed

Pengpid, Supa; Peltzer, Karl; Skaal, Linda

2014-06-06

In persons 15 years and above in South Africa the prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes has been estimated at 9.1% and 9.6%, respectively, and the prevalence of systolic prehypertension and hypertension, 38.2% and 24.6%, respectively. Elevated blood glucose and elevated blood pressure are prototype of preventable chronic cardiovascular disease risk factors.Lifestyle interventions have been shown to control high normal blood pressure and/or high normal blood glucose. This study proposes to evaluate the efficacy of a community (church)-based lifestyle intervention programme to control high normal blood pressure and/or high normal blood glucose in church members in a randomized controlled trial in Gauteng, South Africa. The objectives are to: (1) measure non-communicable diseases profile, including hypertension and diabetes, health behaviours, weight management and psychological distress of church members; (2) measure the reduction of blood glucose and blood pressure levels after the intervention; (3) prevent the development of impaired glucose tolerance; (4) compare health behaviours, weight management and psychological distress, blood glucose and blood pressure levels between intervention and control groups, and within group during 6, 12, 24 and 36 months during and post intervention. The study will use a group-randomized design, recruiting 300 church members from 12 churches. Churches will be randomly assigned to experimental and control conditions. Lifestyle interventions may prevent from the development of high blood pressure and/or diabetes. The findings will impact public health and will enable the health ministry to formulate policy related to lifestyle interventions to control blood pressure and glucose. PACTR201105000297151.

Association of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype and type 2 diabetes mellitus among adults in China.

PubMed

Ren, Yongcheng; Zhang, Ming; Zhao, Jingzhi; Wang, Chongjian; Luo, Xinping; Zhang, Jiatong; Zhu, Tian; Li, Xi; Yin, Lei; Pang, Chao; Feng, Tianping; Wang, Bingyuan; Zhang, Lu; Li, Linlin; Yang, Xiangyu; Zhang, Hongyan; Hu, Dongsheng

2016-09-01

To clarify the association of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype and type 2 diabetes mellitus among adults in China. In the present case-control study, we included 1,685 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 7,141 normal glucose-tolerant controls from the Henan Province of China in 2011. Elevated waist circumference (GW) was defined as ≥90 cm for men and ≥80 cm for women. Hypertriglyceridemia (HT) was defined as >1.7 m mol/L triglycerides (TG) level. The association of hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype and type 2 diabetes mellitus was investigated by sex, body mass index, physical activity, and family history of diabetes. Cases and controls differed in age, waist circumference (WC), weight, TG level, fasting glucose, body mass index, smoking status, diabetic family history, physical activity and hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype (P < 0.05), but not alcohol drinking (P = 0.63). In the overall sample, as compared with the phenotype of normal TG level and normal WC (NTNW), normal TG level/enlarged WC (NTGW), elevated TG level/normal WC (HTNW) and elevated TG level/enlarged WC (HTGW) were associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (odds ratio 4.14, 2.42 and 6.23, respectively). Only HTGW was consistently associated with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, with or without adjustment. The strongest relationship between HTGW and type 2 diabetes mellitus was for subjects with body mass index <24.0 kg/m(2) (odds ratio 6.54, 95% confidence interval 4.22-10.14) after adjustment for cofounding variables. HTGW was stably and significantly associated with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adult Chinese. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Diabetes Investigation published by Asian Association for the Study of Diabetes (AASD) and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Altered expression of regulatory T and Th17 cells in murine bronchial asthma

PubMed Central

Zhu, Jianbo; Liu, Xiaoying; Wang, Wenxia; Ouyang, Xiuhe; Zheng, Wentao; Wang, Qingyuan

2017-01-01

Alteration of the careful balance of the ratio of Th1/Th2 cell subsets impacts immune function and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma. There is little research on the impact of changes on the balance of the regulatory T (Treg)/Th17 subset ratio and its possible repercussions for asthma. This investigation used a murine model of asthma to measure the expression levels of Treg and Th17 cells and the levels of their transcription factors Foxp3 and retinoic acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor (ROR)γt in bronchial asthma while assessing indexes of airway inflammation. Thirty female SPF BALB/c mice were divided into three equally numbered groups: a normal control, an asthma and a dexamethasone treatment group. All the airway inflammation indexes measured were more prominent in the asthma group and less so in the control group. The percentage of the lymphocyte subset CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cells in the CD4+ cells in the asthma group was significantly lower than that in the normal control group (P<0.01). The percentage of the lymphocyte subset CD4+IL-17+ cells in the CD4+ cells in the asthma group was significantly higher than that in the normal control group (P<0.01). The ratio of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cells/CD4+IL-17+ cells in the asthma group decreased compared with that in the normal control group (P<0.01). The expression level of Foxp3 of the mice in the asthma group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P<0.01). The expression intensity of RORγt in the asthma group was higher than that in the normal control group (P<0.01). Finally, the Foxp3/RORγt protein expression ratio in the asthma group was significantly lower than that in the normal control group (P<0.01). The Foxp3/RORγt protein expression ratio and the airway responsiveness were negatively correlated. The average levels of inflammation markers in the dexamethasone group were intermediate between the other groups. During the course of bronchial asthma the unbalanced expression of Treg and Th17 affects mostly the expression of Foxp3/RORγt, leading to inflammation of the airways. Dexamethasone may inhibit airway inflammation by regulating the balance between Treg and Th17. PMID:28672989

Efficacy of telbivudine in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients with high baseline ALT levels

PubMed Central

Lv, Guo-Cai; Ma, Wen-Jiang; Ying, Lin-Jung; Jin, Xi; Zheng, Lin; Yang, Yi-Da

2010-01-01

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of telbivudine (LDT) in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients who have high baseline alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels between 10 and 20 times the upper limit of normal. METHODS: Forty HBeAg-positive CHB patients with high baseline ALT levels between 10 and 20 times the upper limit of normal were enrolled and received LDT monotherapy for 52 wk. Another forty patients with baseline ALT levels between 2 and 10 times the upper limit of normal were included as controls. We compared the virological, biochemical, serological and side effect profiles between the two groups at 52 wk. RESULTS: By week 52, the mean decrease in hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level compared with baseline was 7.03 log10 copies/mL in the high baseline ALT group and 6.17 log10 copies/mL in the control group, respectively (P < 0.05). The proportion of patients in whom serum HBV DNA levels were undetectable by polymerase chain reaction assay was 72.5% in the high baseline ALT group and 60% in the control group, respectively (P < 0.05). In addition, 45.0% of patients in the high baseline ALT group and 27.5% of controls became HBeAg-negative, and 37.5% of those in the high baseline group and 22.5% of controls, respectively, had HBeAg seroconversion (P < 0.05) at week 52. Moreover, in the high baseline group, 4 out of 40 patients (10%) became hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative and 3 (7.5%) of them seroconverted (became HBsAg-positive). Only 1 patient in the control group became HBsAg-negative, but had no seroconversion. The ALT normalization rate, viral breakthrough, genotypic resistance to LDT, and elevations in creatine kinase levels were similar in the two groups over the 52 wk. CONCLUSION: High baseline ALT level is a strong predictor for optimal results during LDT treatment. PMID:20731026

Cerebral Magnesium Levels in Preeclampsia; A Phosphorus Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study.

PubMed

Nelander, Maria; Weis, Jan; Bergman, Lina; Larsson, Anders; Wikström, Anna-Karin; Wikström, Johan

2017-07-01

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is used as a prophylaxis for eclamptic seizures. The exact mechanism of action is not fully established. We used phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) to investigate if cerebral magnesium (Mg2+) levels differ between women with preeclampsia, normal pregnant, and nonpregnant women. This cross-sectional study comprised 28 women with preeclampsia, 30 women with normal pregnancies in corresponding gestational week (range: 23-41 weeks) and 11 nonpregnant healthy controls. All women underwent 31P-MRS from the parieto-occipital region of the brain and were interviewed about cerebral symptoms. Differences between groups were assessed by analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test. Correlations between Mg2+ levels and specific neurological symptoms were estimated with Spearman's rank test. Mean maternal cerebral Mg2+ levels were lower in women with preeclampsia (0.12 mM ± 0.02) compared to normal pregnant controls (0.14 mM ± 0.03) (P = 0.04). Nonpregnant and normal pregnant women did not differ in Mg2+ levels. Among women with preeclampsia, lower Mg2+ levels correlated with presence of visual disturbances (P = 0.04). Plasma levels of Mg2+ did not differ between preeclampsia and normal pregnancy. Women with preeclampsia have reduced cerebral Mg2+ levels, which could explain the potent antiseizure prophylactic properties of MgSO4. Within the preeclampsia group, women with visual disturbances have lower levels of Mg2+ than those without such symptoms. © American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

EGSIEM: Combination of GRACE monthly gravity models on normal equation level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, Ulrich; Jean, Yoomin; Jäggi, Adrian; Mayer-Gürr, Torsten; Neumayer, Hans; Lemoine, Jean-Michel

2016-04-01

One of the three geodetic services to be realized in the frame of the EGSIEM project is a scientific combination service. Each associated processing center (AC) will follow a set of common processing standards but will apply its own, independent analysis method. Therefore the quality, robustness and reliability of the combined monthly gravity fields is expected to improve significantly compared to the individual solutions. The Monthly GRACE gravity fields of all ACs are combined on normal equation level. The individual normal equations are weighted depending on pairwise comparisons of the individual gravity field solutions. To derive these weights and for quality control of the individual contributions first a combination of the monthly gravity fields on solution level is performed. The concept of weighting and of the combination on normal equation level is introduced and the formats used for normal equation exchange and gravity field solutions is described. First results of the combination on normal equation level are presented and compared to the corresponding combinations on solution level. EGSIEM has an open data policy and all processing centers of GRACE gravity fields are invited to participate in the combination.

Vulnerability of Gastric Mucosa in Diabetic Rats, Its Pathogenesis and Amelioration by Cuminum cyminum

PubMed Central

Vador, N.; Jagtap, Aarti G.; Damle, Archana

2012-01-01

Various studies have indicated that peptic ulcers occurring during the course of diabetic state are more severe and often associated with complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding. This study is the first attempt to understand the pathogenesis of gastric ulcers occurring during the diabetic state considering alternate biochemical pathways using suitable markers and its amelioration by Cuminum cyminum. In this study, diabetic rats showed a progressive increase in the stomach advanced glycated end products formation, gastric mucosal tumour necrosis factor-α and Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels as compared to normal control (nondiabetic) rats. There was decrease in gastric mucosal content, antioxidant enzymes and cellular ATPase enzyme levels of diabetic gastric mucosa when compared to the normal control group. mRNA expression of epidermal growth factor was found to be significantly higher as compared to normal control animals. Further methanol extract of Cuminum cyminum treatment to diabetic animals caused a reduction in blood glucose, and ulcer score when compared to diabetic control rats. It significantly increased gastric mucus content, antioxidant status and cellular ATPase enzyme levels as compared to diabetic control animals. Methanol extract of Cuminum cyminum inhibited advanced glycated end products formation in vitro as well as in vivo. PMID:23716866

Discourse changes in early Alzheimer disease, mild cognitive impairment, and normal aging.

PubMed

Chapman, Sandra Bond; Zientz, Jennifer; Weiner, Myron; Rosenberg, Roger; Frawley, William; Burns, Mary Hope

2002-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the sensitivity of discourse gist measures to the early cognitive-linguistic changes in Alzheimer disease (AD) and in the preclinical stages. Differences in discourse abilities were examined in 25 cognitively normal adults, 24 adults with mild probable AD, and 20 adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at gist and detail levels of discourse processing. The authors found that gist and detail levels of discourse processing were significantly impaired in persons with AD and MCI as compared with normal control subjects. Gist-level discourse processing abilities showed minimal overlap between cognitively normal control subjects and those with mild AD. Moreover, the majority of the persons with MCI performed in the range of AD on gist measures. These findings indicate that discourse gist measures hold promise as a diagnostic complement to enhance early detection of AD. Further studies are needed to determine how early the discourse gist deficits arise in AD.

Long Term Functional Outcome of Tibial Tuberosity Advancement vs. Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy and Extracapsular Repair in a Heterogeneous Population of Dogs.

PubMed

Krotscheck, Ursula; Nelson, Samantha A; Todhunter, Rory J; Stone, Marisa; Zhang, Zhiwu

2016-02-01

To determine a long term function of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) for treatment of ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs, and to compare this to the long term function of previously reported tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), extracapsular reconstruction (ECR), and a population of normal dogs. Prospective clinical trial. Dogs with unilateral ruptured CCL treated with TTA (n = 14), TPLO (n = 15), and ECR (n = 23), and normal adult dogs (control, n = 80). Force plate gait analysis was performed at 1 time point for the normal control group and preoperatively, and at 2 and 8 weeks and 6 and 12 months postoperatively for the treatment groups. Using serial force plates, symmetry indices (SI) were calculated between the operated and unoperated pelvic limbs for peak vertical force (PVF), contact time (CT), and vertical impulse (VI). Ground reaction forces (GRF) of the treatment and control group were compared using a general linear model. Walk SI for dogs with TTA were not significantly different from the control group at 12 months postoperatively. At the trot, neither TTA nor ECR achieved normal GRF. SI of the TPLO group were not different from the normal control group by 6-12 months postoperatively. At the walk, TTA achieves normal function by 12 months; however, at the trot TTA is indistinguishable from ECR. TPLO resulted in operated limb function that was similar to the control population by 6-12 months postoperatively at the walk and the trot. © Copyright 2016 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Evolution of plasma homovanillic acid (HVA) levels during treatment in schizo-affective disorder.

PubMed

Galinowski, A; Castelnau, C; Spreux-Varoquaux, O; Bourdel, M C; Olie, J P; Loo, H; Poirier, M F

2000-11-01

1. Plasma Homovanillic Acid (p HVA) levels were measured by HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) in 5 schizo-affective depressed patients receiving a standardized treatment. (lithium, chlorpromazine and clomipramine) during 4 weeks. 2. Four patients were pretreated, without a washout period. 3. No significant difference was observed between patients and normal controls at baseline. Under treatment, pHVA levels increased (p<0.02) with clinical improvement (MADRS and PANSS scores). 4. Although effects of medications prior to the study period were not controlled, these findings suggest that depressed schizo-affective patients may have normal pHVA levels that increase with clinical improvement, unlike schizophrenic patients whose increased pHVA concentrations decline with neuroleptic treatment.

Glutamate-glutamine and GABA in brain of normal aged and patients with cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Huang, Dandan; Liu, Dan; Yin, Jianzhong; Qian, Tianyi; Shrestha, Susan; Ni, Hongyan

2017-07-01

To explore the changes of glutamate-glutamine (Glx) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain in normal old age and cognitive impairment using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Seventeen normal young controls (NYC), 15 normal elderly controls (NEC), 21 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 17 with Alzheimer disease (AD) patients were included in this study. Glx and GABA+ levels in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and right hippocampus (rHP) were measured by using a MEGA-PRESS sequence. Glx/Cr and GABA+/Cr ratios were compared between NYC and NEC and between the three elderly groups using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA); the tissue fractions of voxels were used as covariates. The relationships between metabolite ratios and cognitive performance were analysed using Spearman correlation coefficients. For NEC and NYC groups, Glx/Cr and GABA+/Cr ratios were lower in NEC in ACC and rHP. For the three elderly groups, Glx/Cr ratio was lower in AD in ACC compared to NEC and MCI; Glx/Cr ratio was lower in AD in rHP compared to NEC. There was no significant decrease for GABA+/Cr ratio. Glx and GABA levels may decrease simultaneously in normal aged, and Glx level decreased predominantly in AD, and it is helpful in the early diagnosis of AD. • Glx and GABA levels may decrease simultaneously in normal aged. • Glx level may decrease predominantly in Alzheimer disease. • The balance in excitatory-inhibitory systems may be broken in AD. • Decreased Glx level may be helpful in early diagnosis of AD.

The Renilla luciferase gene as a reference gene for normalization of gene expression in transiently transfected cells.

PubMed

Jiwaji, Meesbah; Daly, Rónán; Pansare, Kshama; McLean, Pauline; Yang, Jingli; Kolch, Walter; Pitt, Andrew R

2010-12-31

The importance of appropriate normalization controls in quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) experiments has become more apparent as the number of biological studies using this methodology has increased. In developing a system to study gene expression from transiently transfected plasmids, it became clear that normalization using chromosomally encoded genes is not ideal, at it does not take into account the transfection efficiency and the significantly lower expression levels of the plasmids. We have developed and validated a normalization method for qPCR using a co-transfected plasmid. The best chromosomal gene for normalization in the presence of the transcriptional activators used in this study, cadmium, dexamethasone, forskolin and phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate was first identified. qPCR data was analyzed using geNorm, Normfinder and BestKeeper. Each software application was found to rank the normalization controls differently with no clear correlation. Including a co-transfected plasmid encoding the Renilla luciferase gene (Rluc) in this analysis showed that its calculated stability was not as good as the optimised chromosomal genes, most likely as a result of the lower expression levels and transfection variability. Finally, we validated these analyses by testing two chromosomal genes (B2M and ActB) and a co-transfected gene (Rluc) under biological conditions. When analyzing co-transfected plasmids, Rluc normalization gave the smallest errors compared to the chromosomal reference genes. Our data demonstrates that transfected Rluc is the most appropriate normalization reference gene for transient transfection qPCR analysis; it significantly reduces the standard deviation within biological experiments as it takes into account the transfection efficiencies and has easily controllable expression levels. This improves reproducibility, data validity and most importantly, enables accurate interpretation of qPCR data.

Using stimulus shaping and fading to establish stimulus control in normal and retarded children.

PubMed

Smeets, P M; Lancioni, G E; Hoogeveen, F R

1984-09-01

The present study was an effort to investigate whether, in addition to his IQ level, the child's ability to identify all relevant stimulus components would affect the frequency of overselective responding. Children of different IQ levels (i.e. normal, educably retarded, and trainable retarded children) participated. Subjects were trained to learn the meanings of four sets of fictitious words, i.e. two sets containing words printed in Roman letters (Roman words), and two sets containing words printed in Hebrew letters (Hebrew words). All subjects could identify the words of each set. The normal and educably retarded subjects could read aloud the Roman words, whereas the trainable retarded subjects could not. None of the subjects could read the Hebrew words. Two training procedures were used, one requiring transfer of stimulus control (fading), and one which did not (stimulus shaping). The results indicated that, firstly, the discrimination learning of the normal and educably retarded subjects covaried with the IQ level and their ability to read the words. The learning rate was not affected by the training procedures. Secondly, the trainable retarded subjects learned much better through stimulus shaping than through fading. Their acquisition rates were slow and not affected by the types of letters. Thirdly, the training procedures had no effect on the breadth of stimulus control. Instead, it covaried as a function of the IQ level (all groups) and of the child's ability to read the words (normal and educably retarded subjects). Fourthly, the training procedures had, however, considerable effect on which letters controlled the discriminations. When overselective selective responding was evident, the letters that had been associated with the prompts were more often functional than the other letters, but only for the words trained through stimulus shaping.

Intravenous dextrose for children with gastroenteritis and dehydration: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Levy, Jason A; Bachur, Richard G; Monuteaux, Michael C; Waltzman, Mark

2013-03-01

We seek to determine whether an initial intravenous bolus of 5% dextrose in normal saline solution compared with normal saline solution will lead to a lower proportion of hospitalized patients and a greater reduction in serum ketone levels in children with gastroenteritis and dehydration. We enrolled children aged 6 months to 6 years in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of patients presenting to a pediatric emergency department. Subjects were randomized to receive a 20 mL/kg infusion of either 5% dextrose in normal saline solution or normal saline solution. Serum ketone levels were measured before and at 1- and 2-hour intervals after the initial study fluid bolus administration. Primary outcome was the proportion of children hospitalized. Secondary outcome was change in serum ketone levels over time. One hundred eighty-eight children were enrolled. The proportion of children hospitalized did not differ between groups (35% in the 5% dextrose in normal saline solution group versus 44% in the normal saline solution group; risk difference 9%; 95% confidence interval [CI] -5% to 22%). Compared with children who received normal saline solution, those who received 5% dextrose in normal saline solution had a greater reduction in mean serum ketone levels at both 1 hour (mean Δ 1.2 versus 0.1 mmol/L; mean difference 1.1 mmol/L; 95% CI 0.4 to 1.9 mmol/L) and 2 hours (mean Δ 1.9 versus 0.3 mmol/L; mean difference 1.6 mmol/L; 95% CI 0.9 to 2.3 mmol/L). Administration of a dextrose-containing bolus compared with normal saline did not lead to a lower rate of hospitalization for children with gastroenteritis and dehydration. There was, however, a greater reduction in serum ketone levels in patients who received 5% dextrose in normal saline solution. Copyright © 2012. Published by Mosby, Inc.

Do Unilateral Herpetic Stromal Keratitis and Neurotrophic Ulcers Cause Bilateral Dry Eye?

PubMed

Jabbarvand, Mahmoud; Hashemian, Hesam; Khodaparast, Mehdi; Rafatnejad, Amin; Beheshtnejad, Amirhooshang; Salami, Amir

2015-07-01

To evaluate and compare the ocular surface condition in herpetic interstitial stromal keratitis and neurotrophic ulcer groups and their normal fellow eyes. In this observational, cross-sectional case-control study, 85 consecutive patients were included, including 56 cases of treated herpetic interstitial keratitis and 29 patients with neurotrophic ulcers. Fifty-six age- and sex-matched participants were also recruited from a normal population as the control group. We evaluated and scored the subjective and objective measures of dry eye for both eyes of all patients. Then, we compared the score of the groups with one another and also with the control group. The main outcome measures were the discomfort level, visual symptoms of dry eye, conjunctival injection, conjunctival staining, corneal staining, corneal tear signs of dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, tear break-up time, Schirmer test score with anesthesia, and tear osmolarity. The normal fellow eye of the herpetic keratitis group had significantly higher discomfort levels (1.4 ± 0.9 vs. 1.3 ± 0.5, P = 0.003), visual symptoms (1.7 ± 0.8 vs. 1.3 ± 0.7, P = 0.002), tear break-up time (8.3 ± 3.2 vs. 12.1 ± 3.3 seconds, P = 0.003), Schirmer test scores (9.2 ± 3.9 vs. 12.9 ± 3 mm, P = 0.04), and tear osmolarity (9.2 ± 3.9 vs. 12.9 ± 3 mm, P = 0.003) in comparison with normal controls. The normal fellow eyes of the neurotrophic ulcer group had significantly worse values for discomfort level (1.9 ± 0.9 vs. 1.3 ± 0.5, P < 0.001), tear break-up time (7.9 ± 4 vs. 12.1 ± 3.3, P = 0.004), Schirmer test score (8.1 ± 3.9 vs. 12.9 ± 3, P = 0.005), and tear osmolarity (295 ± 9.2 vs. 292.7 ± 5.9, P = 0.02) compared with normal controls. Both eyes of patients with neurotrophic ulcer and interstitial herpetic keratitis have a significantly poorer ocular surface condition compared with that of normal controls.

Differential effects of mental stress on plasma homovanillic acid in schizophrenia and normal controls.

PubMed

Sumiyoshi, T; Saitoh, O; Yotsutsuji, T; Itoh, H; Kurokawa, K; Kurachi, M

1999-04-01

We previously reported that mental stress by Kraepelin's arithmetic test decreases plasma homovanillic acid (pHVA) levels in psychiatrically normal healthy human subjects. The present study was undertaken to determine whether this pattern of changes in pHVA concentrations resulting from mental stress is altered in patients with schizophrenia. Fourteen male patients with schizophrenia including those under ongoing neuroleptic treatment and 14 normal male volunteers participated in the study. Following overnight fast and restricted physical activity, the subjects performed Kraepelin's arithmetic test for 30 minutes. Plasma samples were collected immediately before and after the test for measurement of pHVA levels. A significant diagnosis by Kraepelin's test effect was observed due to a decrease in pHVA levels by the Kraepelin test in control subjects but not in patients with schizophrenia. Changes in pHVA levels during the Kraepelin test positively correlated with pre-test pHVA levels in control subjects, while this correlation was not observed in patients with schizophrenia. These results may be further support for the presence of a dopamine-dependent restitutive system in the brain. The absence of response of pHVA levels to mental stress in patients with schizophrenia may indicate that the dopamine restitutive system in these patients is disrupted or already down-regulated, as previously predicted.

Association of Low Levels of Vitamin D with Chronic Stable Angina: A Prospective Case-Control Study

PubMed Central

Raina, Ab Hameed; Allai, Mohammad Sultan; Shah, Zafar Amin; Changal, Khalid Hamid; Raina, Manzoor Ahmad; Bhat, Fayaz Ahmad

2016-01-01

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of death and disability in developed countries. Chronic stable angina is the initial manifestation of CAD in approximately 50% of the patients. Recent evidence suggests that vitamin D is crucial for cardiovascular health. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in our region is 83%. A low level of vitamin D is associated with chronic stable angina. Aim: This study was aimed at supporting or refuting this hypothesis in our population. Materials and Methods: The study was a prospective case-control study. We studied 100 cases of chronic stable angina and compared them with 100 matched controls. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as <20 ng/mL, vitamin D insufficiency as 20-30 ng/mL and normal vitamin D level as 31-150 ng/mL. Results: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among cases and controls was 75% and 10%, respectively. 75% of the cases were vitamin D-deficient (<20 ng/mL); 12% were vitamin D-insufficient (20-30 ng/mL), and 13% had normal vitamin D levels (31-150 ng/mL). None had a toxic level of vitamin D. Among the controls, 10% were vitamin D-deficient, 33% were vitamin D-insufficient, and 57% had normal vitamin D levels. The mean vitamin level among cases and controls was 15.53 ng/mL and 40.95 ng/mL, respectively, with the difference being statistically significant (P ≤ 0.0001). There was no statistically significant relation between the disease severities, i.e., on coronary angiography (CAG) with vitamin D level. Among the cases, we found that an increasing age was inversely related to vitamin D levels (P = 0.027). Conclusion: Our study indicates a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and chronic stable angina. Low levels may be an independent, potentially modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. PMID:27114971

Insulin secretion enhancing activity of roselle calyx extract in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

PubMed Central

Wisetmuen, Eamruthai; Pannangpetch, Patchareewan; Kongyingyoes, Bunkerd; Kukongviriyapan, Upa; Yutanawiboonchai, Wiboonchai; Itharat, Arunporn

2013-01-01

Background and Objective: Our recent study revealed the antihyperglycemic activity of an ethanolic extract of roselle calyxes (Hibiscus sabdariffa) in diabetic rats. The present study had, therefore, an objective to investigate the mechanism underlying this activity. Materials and Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats were induced to be diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). Normal rats as well as diabetic rats were administered with the ethanolic extract of H. sabdariffa calyxes (HS-EE) at 0.1 and 1.0 g/kg/day, respectively, for 6 weeks. Then, blood glucose and insulin levels, at basal and glucose-stimulated secretions, were measured. The pancreas was dissected to examine histologically. Results: HS-EE 1.0 g/kg/day significantly decreased the blood glucose level by 38 ± 12% in diabetic rats but not in normal rats. In normal rats, treatment with 1.0 g/kg HS-EE increased the basal insulin level significantly as compared with control normal rats (1.28 ± 0.25 and 0.55 ± 0.05 ng/ml, respectively). Interestingly, diabetic rats treated with 1.0 g/kg HS-EE also showed a significant increase in basal insulin level as compared with the control diabetic rats (0.30 ± 0.05 and 0.15 ± 0.01 ng/ml, respectively). Concerning microscopic histological examination, HS-EE 1.0 g/kg significantly increased the number of islets of Langerhans in both normal rats (1.2 ± 0.1 and 2.0 ± 0.1 islet number/10 low-power fields (LPF) for control and HS-EE treated group, respectively) and diabetic rats (1.0 ± 0.3 and 3.9 ± 0.6 islet number/10 LPF for control and HS-EE treated group, respectively). Conclusion: The antidiabetic activity of HS-EE may be partially mediated via the stimulating effect on insulin secretion. PMID:23798879

Effects of Serum Zinc Supplementation on Pica Behavior of Persons with Mental Retardation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lofts, Ronald H.; And Others

1990-01-01

Of 806 institutionalized adults with mental retardation, 15.5 percent exhibited pica. Fifty-four percent of the pica group had serum zinc levels below normal range, whereas 7 percent of a control group had serum zinc levels below the normal range. After supplementation with chelated zinc, residents had significant reductions in pica. (Author/JDD)

[The replacement therapy of rPTH(1-84) in established rat model of hypothyroidism].

PubMed

Ding, Zhiwei; Li, Tiancheng; Liu, Yuhe; Xiao, Shuifang

2015-12-01

To investigate the replacement therapy of rPTH(1-84) (recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-84)) to hypothyroidism in established rat model. Rat model of hypothyroidism was established by resecting parathyroids. A total of 30 rats with removal of parathyroids were divided into 6 groups randomly, 5 in each group, and applied respectively with saline injection (negative control group), calcitriol treatment (positive control group) and quadripartite PTH administration with dose of 20, 40, 80 and 160 µg/kg (experimental groups). Saline and rPTH(1-84) were injected subcutaneously daily. Calcitriol was gavaged once a day. Sham-operation was conducted in 5 rats of negative control group. To verify the authenticity of the rat model with hypothyroidism, the serum was insolated centrifugally from rat blood that was obtained from angular vein at specific time to measure calcium and phosphorus concentration. Urine in 12 hours was collected by metabolic cages and the calcium concentration was measured. After 10-week drug treatment, the experiment was terminated and bilateral femoral bone and L2-5 lumbar vertebra were removed from rats. Bone mineral density (BMD)of bilateral femoral bone and lumbar vertebra was analyzed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The concentration of bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) in serum was determined by radioimmunoassay. The rat model with hypothyroidism was obtained by excising parathyroid gland and was verified by monitoring calcium and phosphorus concentration subsequently. Administration of rPTH(1-84) in the dose of 80 or 160 µg/kg made serum calcium and phosphorus back to normal levels, with no significant difference between the doses (P>0.05). The BMD in each group of rats with rPTH(1-84) administration was increased significantly (P<0.05). The levels of urinary calcium and serum BALP in rats of maximum rPTH(1-84) injection group (160 µg/kg) were higher than those of normal control group (P<0.05). The rats treated with calcitriol had normal calcium levels and showed the increase of BMD and phosphorus concentration compared with normal control group (P<0.05). The amount of urinary calcium also exceeded the other groups (P<0.05), but no with significant difference in BMD of bilateral femoral bone and lumbar vertebra between negative control group and normal control group (P>0.05). Calcium and phosphorus return to normal level by administration of rPTH(1-84) in the dose of 80 µg/kg or 160 µg/kg, with increase in BMD. Calcitriol can return the level of calcium to normal and increase BMD, but can not correspondingly decrease the phosphorus concentration and increase the excretion of calcium in urine.

[Prevalence and quality of control of calcium and phosphorus metabolism disorders among Lithuanian hemodialysis patients in 2004 and 2005].

PubMed

Petrauskiene, Vaida; Ziginskiene, Edita; Kuzminskis, Vytautas; Burciuviene, Asta; Grazulis, Saulius; Sileikiene, Elvyra; Masalskiene, Jūrate; Juodeikiene, Laima; Tamosaitis, Donatas; Alisauskiene, Violeta

2007-01-01

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and quality of control of disorders of calcium and phosphorus metabolism among patients on hemodialysis in Lithuania during the period of 2004-2005 and to assess rarely used methods of treatment such as parathyroidectomy and administration of calcimimetics. All Lithuanian hemodialysis centers were visited, and data on disorders of calcium-phosphorus metabolism were collected in December 2004 and 2005. The quality of control was evaluated according to Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative recommendations. According to Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative guidelines, normal parathyroid hormone levels were found in 20.4% of hemodialysis patients in 2004 and 18.8% of hemodialysis patients in 2005; normal levels of phosphate were in 41.9% and 39.4%, respectively; normal levels of calcium were observed in 44.7% of patients in 2004 and in 42.3% of patients in 2005. In 2005 as compared to 2004, there were statistically significantly more patients with low parathyroid hormone level (39.9% and 45.8%, respectively, P<0.05). Only in 5.6% of patients in 2004 and 3.9% of patients in 2005, all four parameters of calcium-phosphate metabolism (calcium, phosphate, and of parathyroid hormone levels and calcium-phosphate product) were within the normal range. No parameters in the normal range were found in 17-20% of patients. The use of alfacalcidol significantly increased: 316 (30.8%) patients in 2004 and 388 (35.7%) patients in 2005 were treated with alfacalcidol (P<0.05). Alfacalcidol was prescribed for 16.5% of patients in 2004 and for 17% of patients in 2005, in whom parathyroid hormone level was below the normal range in the presence of hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. The use of calcimimetics was considered rational in 142 (13.8%) patients in 2004 and 119 (10.9%) patients in 2005. According to the data of our study, parathyroidectomy was indicated in 19 (1.85%) patients in 2004 and 17 (1.56%) patients in 2005. According to Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative recommendations, the control of disorders of calcium-phosphate metabolism in Lithuanian hemodialysis patients was insufficient in 2004 and 2005. One-third of the patients were treated with alfacalcidol when parathyroid hormone level was low and hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia persisted. Calcimimetics for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism were administered in about 10% of patients.

Serotonergic disturbances in autistic disorder: L-5-hydroxytryptophan administration to autistic youngsters increases the blood concentrations of serotonin in patients but not in controls.

PubMed

Croonenberghs, Jan; Verkerk, Robert; Scharpe, Simon; Deboutte, Dirk; Maes, Michael

2005-03-25

Some studies have suggested that disorders in the peripheral and central metabolism of serotonin (5-HT) may play a role in the pathophysiology of autistic disorder. This study examines the whole blood concentrations of 5-HT and 5-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in baseline conditions and during a challenge with L-5-OH-tryptophane (5-HTP; 4 mg/kg in non enteric-coated tablets), the precursor of 5-HT, in a study group of 18 male, post-pubertal, Caucasian autistic patients (age 13-19 y.; I.Q.>55) and 20 matched healthy volunteers. In baseline conditions, no significant differences in 5-HT or 5-HIAA levels could be found between autistic youngsters and normal controls. 5-HTP administration significantly increased the levels of 5-HT in autistic youngsters but not in normal controls. Following 5-HTP challenge the 5-HT levels were significantly higher in autistic patients than in healthy volunteers. After challenge with 5-HTP, no significant differences were found in the concentrations of 5-HIAA or the test substance between autistic youngsters and normal controls. Differences in the peripheral metabolism of 5-HT which may not be observed in baseline conditions but which became clear after loading with 5-HTP, suggest that an increased synthesis of 5-HT from its precursor 5-HTP might be a one factor responsible for differences in the serotonergic system between autistic post-pubertal youngsters and normal controls.

Cy5 total protein normalization in Western blot analysis.

PubMed

Hagner-McWhirter, Åsa; Laurin, Ylva; Larsson, Anita; Bjerneld, Erik J; Rönn, Ola

2015-10-01

Western blotting is a widely used method for analyzing specific target proteins in complex protein samples. Housekeeping proteins are often used for normalization to correct for uneven sample loads, but these require careful validation since expression levels may vary with cell type and treatment. We present a new, more reliable method for normalization using Cy5-prelabeled total protein as a loading control. We used a prelabeling protocol based on Cy5 N-hydroxysuccinimide ester labeling that produces a linear signal response. We obtained a low coefficient of variation (CV) of 7% between the ratio of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) target to Cy5 total protein control signals over the whole loading range from 2.5 to 20.0μg of Chinese hamster ovary cell lysate protein. Corresponding experiments using actin or tubulin as controls for normalization resulted in CVs of 13 and 18%, respectively. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase did not produce a proportional signal and was not suitable for normalization in these cells. A comparison of ERK1/2 signals from labeled and unlabeled samples showed that Cy5 prelabeling did not affect antibody binding. By using total protein normalization we analyzed PP2A and Smad2/3 levels with high confidence. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevention of Pulmonary Fibrosis via Trichostatin A (TSA) in Bleomycin Induced Rats.

PubMed

Ye, Qing; Li, Yanqin; Jiang, Handong; Xiong, Jianfei; Xu, Jiabo; Qin, Hui; Liu, Bin

2014-10-20

To investigate the effects of non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors Trichostatin A (TSA)on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. To investigate the effects of non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors Trichostatin A ( TSA ) on HDAC2, p-SMAD2, HDAC2 mRNA, SMAD2mRNA in pulmonary fibrosis rats and investigate impossible mechanism. 46 SPF level male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: ten for normal control group, fourteen for model control group I, twelve for model control group II and ten for treatment group. Rat pulmonary fibrosis was induced by bleomycin(5mg/kg) via single intratracheal perfusion in the two model control groups and treatment group. Normal control mice were instilled with a corresponding volume of 0.9% saline intratracheally. Treatment group was treated by the dilution of TSA 2mg/kg DMSO 60ul and0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day ,once a day for three days. Model control group II was treated by the dilution of DMSO 60ul and0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day once a day for three days. Model control group I and normal control group were treated by 0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day once a day for three days. All the animals were sacrificed on the 21 day after modeling. The pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin(HE)stain and masson trichrome stain. The expression of HDAC2 mRNA,SMAD2 mRNA were measured by real-time PCR. The protein level of HDAC2 and p-SMAD2 in serum was measured by Western blot. The pulmonary fibrosis in treatment group were significantly alleviated compared to the two model control groups (P<0.05). Real-time PCR showed that the treatment group had lower expression of lung tissue HDAC2 mRNA than the two model control groups and normal control group (P<0.05). The expression of lung tissue SMAD2 mRNA increased in the two model control groups and treatment group (P<0.05),but there were no significant differences among the three groups(P>0.05). Western blot indicated that the protein level of HDAC2 and p-SMAD2 in serum increased in the two model control groups compared with normal control group(P<0.05).But treatment group had lower protein level of HDAC2 (P<0.05) and no significant difference in the protein level of p-SMAD2 compared to the two model control groups (P>0.05). Non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors of Trichostatin A (TSA) can reduce the bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. TSA attenuates pulmonary fibrosis and it can inhibit HDAC2 expression at the gene and protein level. Bleomycin induced fibrosis has the relationship with p-SMAD2 in gene and protein levels, but TSA inhibit bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis effect with no relation with SMAD2 phosphorylation pathways.

Assessment of vitamin K2 levels in osteoporotic patients: a case control study.

PubMed

Noori, Akram; Lashkari, Mahin; Oveisi, Sonia; Khair Khah, Mohamad Reza; Zargar, Ali

2014-07-14

The aim of this study was to measure the level of Vitamin K2 (Vit K2) in osteoporotic patients and individuals with normal bone density as controls. This case-control study was done in Outpatient Department of Rheumatology at Qazvin Boo-ali Sina Hospital in 2013. Participants were 50 patients with osteoporotic densitometry measured by DEXA (T score? -2.5) who were matched with 48 persons in control group with normal bone density (T score> -1). The level of Vit K2 in samples was measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-square test. The level of Vit K2 in patients with osteoporosis was not significantly different from the control group (Median: 75.95 vs. 71.35 nmol/L, respectively; P-value: 0.709). The authors determined cut-offs 75 percentile of vitamin K2 in all participants that was 85 nmol/L and percentages of persons in two groups were similar. Although Vit K2 level in patients with osteoporosis was not significantly different from the control group, further studies are necessary to confirm the association of osteoporosis and Vit K2.

The effect of aircraft control forces on pilot performance during instrument landings in a flight simulator.

PubMed

Hewson, D J; McNair, P J; Marshall, R N

2001-07-01

Pilots may have difficulty controlling aircraft at both high and low force levels due to larger variability in force production at these force levels. The aim of this study was to measure the force variability and landing performance of pilots during an instrument landing in a flight simulator. There were 12 pilots who were tested while performing 5 instrument landings in a flight simulator, each of which required different control force inputs. Pilots can produce the least force when pushing the control column to the right, therefore the force levels for the landings were set relative to each pilot's maximum aileron-right force. The force levels for the landings were 90%, 60%, and 30% of maximal aileron-right force, normal force, and 25% of normal force. Variables recorded included electromyographic activity (EMG), aircraft control forces, aircraft attitude, perceived exertion and deviation from glide slope and heading. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to test for differences between landings. Pilots were least accurate in landing performance during the landing at 90% of maximal force (p < 0.05). There was also a trend toward decreased landing performance during the landing at 25% of normal force. Pilots were more variable in force production during the landings at 60% and 90% of maximal force (p < 0.05). Pilots are less accurate at performing instrument landings when control forces are high due to the increased variability of force production. The increase in variability at high force levels is most likely associated with motor unit recruitment, rather than rate coding. Aircraft designers need to consider the reduction in pilot performance at high force levels, as well as pilot strength limits when specifying new standards.

Acacia nilotica leave extract and glyburide: comparison of fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, beta-thromboglubulin levels and platelet aggregation in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Asad, Munnaza; Munir, Tahir Ahmad; Afzal, Nasir

2011-03-01

To evaluate the hypoglycaemic and anti-platelet aggregation effect of aqueous methanol extract of Acacia Nilotica (AN) leaves compared with glyburide on streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced in 90 out of 120 albino rats by administering 50 mg/kg body weight (b.w) streptozotocin and was confirmed by measuring fasting blood glucose level >200 mg/dL on 4th post-induction day. The rats were equally divided into 4 groups, A (normal control), B (diabetic control), C (diabetic rats treated with AN extract) and group D (diabetic rats treated with glyburide). The rats of group C and D were given 300 mg/kg b.w AN extract and 900 microgm/kg b.w glyburide respectively for 3 weeks. Blood glucose was measured by glucometer, platelet aggregation by Dia-Med method and insulin and beta-thromboglobulin by ELISA technique. A significant increase (p<0.05) in fasting blood glucose, beta-thromboglobulin and platelet aggregation and a significant decrease (p<0.05) in insulin levels was observed in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats than the normal controls. The rats treated with AN extract and glyburide showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in fasting blood glucose and increase (p<0.05) in insulin levels than the diabetic control rats. However, the levels in both the treatment groups remained significantly different than the normal controls. A significant decrease (p<0.05) in beta-thromboglobulin levels was seen in diabetic rats treated with glyburide than the diabetic control rats and diabetic rats treated with AN extract. AN leaves extract result into hypoglycaemic and anti-platelet aggregation activity in diabetic rats as that of glyburide.

Evaluation of serum uric acid levels in normal pregnant Nigerian women.

PubMed

Nwagha, U I; Ejezie, F E; Iyare, E E

2009-03-01

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy are common in our environment. The aetiology is unknown and the prognostic indicators of the severity of maternal and fetal complications are variable. The level of uric acid, which is one of the prognostic indicators, is altered in normal pregnancy and as pregnancy advances. Base line values are thus extremely important to enable reasonable prognostic assessment in hypertensive pregnancies. To determine levels of serum uric acid during normal pregnancy in University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Enugu. settings and methods: Sixty- five pregnant and 65 non-pregnant women with age range 20-38 years were recruited. The pregnant women were in their second and third trimesters, attending antenatal clinic at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu. Serum levels of uric acid were determined for the entire subjects. The serum uric acid levels were significantly lower in the pregnant women than in controls (P < 0.001). 0.15 +/- 0.03 mmol/L in the second trimester, 0.14 +/- 0.02 mmol/L in the third trimester and 0.29 +/- 0.04 mmoL for control. The low levels in pregnancy and as pregnancy progresses should be taken into consideration when monitoring hypertensive disorders in pregnancy using serum uric acid. Thus levels that are within normal for non pregnant population may indeed be an indication for intervention in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia.

Chromium ion release from stainless steel pediatric scoliosis instrumentation.

PubMed

Cundy, Thomas P; Delaney, Christopher L; Rackham, Matthew D; Antoniou, Georgia; Oakley, Andrew P; Freeman, Brian J C; Sutherland, Leanne M; Cundy, Peter J

2010-04-20

Case-control study. To determine whether serum metal ion levels and erythrocyte chromium levels in adolescents with stainless steel spinal instrumentation are elevated when compared with 2 control groups. Instrumented spinal arthrodesis is a common procedure to correct scoliosis. The long-term consequences of retained implants are unclear. Possible toxic effects related to raised metal ion levels have been reported in the literature. Thirty patients who underwent posterior spinal arthrodesis with stainless steel instrumentation for scoliosis (group 1) were included. Minimum postoperative duration was 3 years. Serum chromium, molybdenum, iron, and ferritin levels were measured. Participants with elevated above normal serum chromium levels (n = 11) also underwent erythrocyte chromium analysis. Comparisons were made with 2 control groups; 10 individuals with scoliosis with no spinal surgery (group 2) and 10 volunteers without scoliosis (group 3). All control group participants underwent serum and erythrocyte analysis. Elevated above normal serum chromium levels were demonstrated in 11 of 30 (37%) group 1 participants. Elevated serum chromium levels were demonstrated in 0 of 10 participants (0%) in group 2 and 1 of 10 (10%) in group 3. There was a statistically significant elevation in serum chromium levels between group 1 and group 2 participants (P = 0.001). There was no significant association between groups 1, 2, and 3 for serum molybdenum, iron, and ferritin levels. Erythrocyte chromium measurements were considered within the normal range for all participants tested (n = 31). Raised serum chromium levels were detected in 37% of patients following instrumented spinal arthrodesis for correction of scoliosis. This new finding has relatively unknown health implications but potential mutagenic, teratogenic and carcinogenic sequelae. This is especially concerning with most scoliosis patients being adolescent females with their reproductive years ahead.

Evidence for serum miR-15a and miR-16 levels as biomarkers that distinguish sepsis from systemic inflammatory response syndrome in human subjects.

PubMed

Wang, Huijuan; Zhang, Pengjun; Chen, Weijun; Feng, Dan; Jia, Yanhong; Xie, Li-xin

2012-02-11

Serum microRNAs may be useful biomarkers for diagnosing human diseases. We investigated serum levels of miR-15a and miR-16 in patients with sepsis and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) without infection. We enrolled 166 sepsis patients, 32 SIRS patients, and 24 normal controls. Serum miR-15a and miR-16 expression levels were determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assays (qRT-PCR). Serum miR-15a (p<0.001) and miR-16 (p<0.05) were both significantly higher in sepsis patients compared with normal controls, and miR-15a (p<0.001) and miR-16 (p<0.01) levels in SIRS patients were also significantly higher than those in normal controls. Serum miR-15a and miR-16 levels were not correlated with white blood cell counts. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that miR-15a had the highest area under the curve of 0.858 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.800-0.916] for the diagnosis of sepsis compared with C reactive protein and procalcitonin with areas under the curve of 0.572 (95% CI 0.479-0.665; p=0.198) and 0.605 (95% CI 0.443-0.767; p=0.168), respectively. When its cut-off point was set at 0.21, serum miR-15a had a sensitivity of 68.3% and a specificity of 94.4%. Serum miR-15a and miR-16 can both distinguish sepsis/SIRS from normal controls. miR-15a may be a biomarker that distinguishes between sepsis and SIRS.

Elevated testosterone and hypergonadotropism in active adolescents of normal weight with oligomenorrhea.

PubMed

Singer, K; Rosenthal, A; Kasa-Vubu, Josephine Z

2009-10-01

Oligomenorrhea in active adolescent females of normal weight is presumed to be related to hypoestrogenism secondary to physical activity and decreased fat mass. We hypothesized that active adolescents with oligomenorrhea would have lower estrogen levels than normal controls with similar levels of cardiovascular fitness. Twenty healthy participants between the ages of 16 and 20 years were recruited at least 2 years postmenarche. Adolescents reporting fewer than 9 cycles a year (n = 6) were compared to 14 controls with monthly menstrual cycles. Histories of eating disorder, hirsutism, severe acne, depression, or amenorrhea were cause for exclusion. Body composition and bone density were measured by total body dual x-ray absorpitometry. Cardiovascular fitness was evaluated by measuring oxygen consumption during exercise. Control subjects were matched by age, body mass index (BMI), and fitness level. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol were obtained. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS 9.1. Cardiovascular fitness in both groups was within normal limits for age. No significant differences in BMI, estradiol concentrations, or bone density were found, but trunk fat mass was lower in adolescents with oligomenorrhea who also reported more frequent exercise. Testosterone concentrations and LH/FSH ratios were significantly higher in participants with irregular menstrual cycles (P = 0.0018 and <0.001, respectively). Adolescents with oligomenorrhea were leaner, yet they had higher testosterone levels and a greater LH/FSH ratio than their BMI-matched, cyclic counterparts. We hypothesize that, in active adolescents of normal weight, elevated androgen and LH concentrations are linked to ovarian dysfunction, which can masquerade as exercise-induced oligomenorrhea.

Assessment of MMP-9, TIMP-1, and COX-2 in normal tissue and in advanced symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid plaques

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Mature carotid plaques are complex structures, and their histological classification is challenging. The carotid plaques of asymptomatic and symptomatic patients could exhibit identical histological components. Objectives To investigate whether matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) have different expression levels in advanced symptomatic carotid plaques, asymptomatic carotid plaques, and normal tissue. Methods Thirty patients admitted for carotid endarterectomy were selected. Each patient was assigned preoperatively to one of two groups: group I consisted of symptomatic patients (n = 16, 12 males, mean age 66.7 ± 6.8 years), and group II consisted of asymptomatic patients (n = 14, 8 males, mean age 67.6 ± 6.81 years). Nine normal carotid arteries were used as control. Tissue specimens were analyzed for fibromuscular, lipid and calcium contents. The expressions of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and COX-2 in each plaque were quantified. Results Fifty-eight percent of all carotid plaques were classified as Type VI according to the American Heart Association Committee on Vascular Lesions. The control carotid arteries all were classified as Type III. The median percentage of fibromuscular tissue was significantly greater in group II compared to group I (p < 0.05). The median percentage of lipid tissue had a tendency to be greater in group I than in group II (p = 0.057). The percentages of calcification were similar among the two groups. MMP-9 protein expression levels were significantly higher in group II and in the control group when compared with group I (p < 0.001). TIMP-1 expression levels were significantly higher in the control group and in group II when compared to group I, with statistical difference between control group and group I (p = 0.010). COX-2 expression levels did not differ among groups. There was no statistical correlation between MMP-9, COX-2, and TIMP-1 levels and fibrous tissue. Conclusions MMP-9 and TIMP-1 are present in all stages of atherosclerotic plaque progression, from normal tissue to advanced lesions. When sections of a plaque are analyzed without preselection, MMP-9 concentration is higher in normal tissues and asymptomatic surgical specimens than in symptomatic specimens, and TIMP-1 concentration is higher in normal tissue than in symptomatic specimens. PMID:21457581

Deaf individuals who work with computers present a high level of visual attention.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Paula Vieira; Ribas, Valdenilson Ribeiro; Ribas, Renata de Melo Guerra; de Melo, Teresinha de Jesus Oliveira Guimarães; Marinho, Carlos Antonio de Sá; Silva, Kátia Karina do Monte; de Albuquerque, Elizabete Elias; Ribas, Valéria Ribeiro; de Lima, Renata Mirelly Silva; Santos, Tuthcha Sandrelle Botelho Tavares

2011-01-01

Some studies in the literature indicate that deaf individuals seem to develop a higher level of attention and concentration during the process of constructing of different ways of communicating. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of attention in individuals deaf from birth that worked with computers. A total of 161 individuals in the 18-25 age group were assessed. Of these, 40 were congenitally deaf individuals that worked with computers, 42 were deaf individuals that did not work, did not know how to use nor used computers (Control 1), 39 individuals with normal hearing that did not work, did not know how to use computers nor used them (Control 2), and 40 individuals with normal hearing that worked with computers (Control 3). The group of subjects deaf from birth that worked with computers (IDWC) presented a higher level of focused attention, sustained attention, mental manipulation capacity and resistance to interference compared to the control groups. This study highlights the relevance sensory to cognitive processing.

The Influence of Corn Silk Polysaccharide on Signal Pathway of TGF-β1 in Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus Rat.

PubMed

Wen, Xianchun; Yue, Liling

2015-01-01

In prevention stage, comparing with normal control group, triglycerides, blood sugar (BG), 24-hour urinary protein and cholesterol (CHO) were higher in T2DM group, but weight and urea nitrogen (BUN) was less in it. 24-hour urinary protein and cholesterol (CHO) were higher in T2DM group than the intervention group. 24-hour urinary protein and BG in the intervention group were higher than normal control group, but BUN is less than normal control group; In the intervention group the weight of kidney and weight of rat were also higher than T2DM group, but CHO and 24-hour urinary protein were less than T2DM group. The expression of TGF-β1 in T2DM group were more than the other groups. In treatment stage, serum creatinine (Cr), weight, BG and CHO, TGand 24-hour urinary protein quantitative were significantly higher in the DN rats than those in the normal control rats (P>0.05). The expression level of TGF-β1 and triglyceride level in the corn silk dihydroxycorn silk3 treated group were obviously lower than those in the DN rats.

Comparisons of auditory brainstem response and sound level tolerance in tinnitus ears and non-tinnitus ears in unilateral tinnitus patients with normal audiograms.

PubMed

Shim, Hyun Joon; An, Yong-Hwi; Kim, Dong Hyun; Yoon, Ji Eun; Yoon, Ji Hyang

2017-01-01

Recently, "hidden hearing loss" with cochlear synaptopathy has been suggested as a potential pathophysiology of tinnitus in individuals with a normal hearing threshold. Several studies have demonstrated that subjects with tinnitus and normal audiograms show significantly reduced auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave I amplitudes compared with control subjects, but normal wave V amplitudes, suggesting increased central auditory gain. We aimed to reconfirm the "hidden hearing loss" theory through a within-subject comparison of wave I and wave V amplitudes and uncomfortable loudness level (UCL), which might be decreased with increased central gain, in tinnitus ears (TEs) and non-tinnitus ears (NTEs). Human subjects included 43 unilateral tinnitus patients (19 males, 24 females) with normal and symmetric hearing thresholds and 18 control subjects with normal audiograms. The amplitudes of wave I and V from the peak to the following trough were measured twice at 90 dB nHL and we separately assessed UCLs at 500 Hz and 3000 Hz pure tones in each TE and NTE. The within-subject comparison between TEs and NTEs showed no significant differences in wave I and wave V amplitude, or wave V/I ratio in both the male and female groups. Individual data revealed increased V/I amplitude ratios > mean + 2 SD in 3 TEs, but not in any control ears. We found no significant differences in UCL at 500 Hz or 3000 Hz between the TEs and NTEs, but the UCLs of both TEs and NTEs were lower than those of the control ears. Our ABR data do not represent meaningful evidence supporting the hypothesis of cochlear synaptopathy with increased central gain in tinnitus subjects with normal audiograms. However, reduced sound level tolerance in both TEs and NTEs might reflect increased central gain consequent on hidden synaptopathy that was subsequently balanced between the ears by lateral olivocochlear efferents.

Comparisons of auditory brainstem response and sound level tolerance in tinnitus ears and non-tinnitus ears in unilateral tinnitus patients with normal audiograms

PubMed Central

An, Yong-Hwi; Kim, Dong Hyun; Yoon, Ji Eun; Yoon, Ji Hyang

2017-01-01

Objective Recently, “hidden hearing loss” with cochlear synaptopathy has been suggested as a potential pathophysiology of tinnitus in individuals with a normal hearing threshold. Several studies have demonstrated that subjects with tinnitus and normal audiograms show significantly reduced auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave I amplitudes compared with control subjects, but normal wave V amplitudes, suggesting increased central auditory gain. We aimed to reconfirm the “hidden hearing loss” theory through a within-subject comparison of wave I and wave V amplitudes and uncomfortable loudness level (UCL), which might be decreased with increased central gain, in tinnitus ears (TEs) and non-tinnitus ears (NTEs). Subjects and methods Human subjects included 43 unilateral tinnitus patients (19 males, 24 females) with normal and symmetric hearing thresholds and 18 control subjects with normal audiograms. The amplitudes of wave I and V from the peak to the following trough were measured twice at 90 dB nHL and we separately assessed UCLs at 500 Hz and 3000 Hz pure tones in each TE and NTE. Results The within-subject comparison between TEs and NTEs showed no significant differences in wave I and wave V amplitude, or wave V/I ratio in both the male and female groups. Individual data revealed increased V/I amplitude ratios > mean + 2 SD in 3 TEs, but not in any control ears. We found no significant differences in UCL at 500 Hz or 3000 Hz between the TEs and NTEs, but the UCLs of both TEs and NTEs were lower than those of the control ears. Conclusions Our ABR data do not represent meaningful evidence supporting the hypothesis of cochlear synaptopathy with increased central gain in tinnitus subjects with normal audiograms. However, reduced sound level tolerance in both TEs and NTEs might reflect increased central gain consequent on hidden synaptopathy that was subsequently balanced between the ears by lateral olivocochlear efferents. PMID:29253030

Cerebrospinal Fluid Amyloid-β 42, Total Tau and Phosphorylated Tau are Low in Patients with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Analogies and Differences with Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Santangelo, Roberto; Cecchetti, Giordano; Bernasconi, Maria Paola; Cardamone, Rosalinda; Barbieri, Alessandra; Pinto, Patrizia; Passerini, Gabriella; Scomazzoni, Francesco; Comi, Giancarlo; Magnani, Giuseppe

2017-01-01

Co-existence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a frequent finding, thus a common pathophysiological basis between AD and NPH has been postulated. We measured CSF amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42), total tau (t-tau), and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) concentrations in a sample of 294 patients with different types of dementia and 32 subjects without dementia. We then compared scores on neuropsychological tests of NPH patients with pathological and normal CSF Aβ42 values. Aβ42 levels were significantly lower in NPH than in control patients, with no significant differences between AD and NPH. On the contrary, t-tau and p-tau levels were significantly lower in NPH than in AD, with no differences between NPH and controls. NPH patients with pathological Aβ42 levels did not perform worse than NPH patients with normal Aβ42 levels in any cognitive domains. Our data seem to support the hypothesis of amyloid accumulation in brains of NPH patients. Nevertheless, amyloid does not seem to play a pathogenetic role in the development of cognitive deficits in NPH.

Diabetes Impairs the Vascular Recruitment of Normal Stem Cells by Oxidant Damage, Reversed by Increases in pAMPK, Heme Oxygenase-1, and Adiponectin

PubMed Central

Sambuceti, Gianmario; Morbelli, Silvia; Vanella, Luca; Kusmic, Claudia; Marini, Cecilia; Massollo, Michela; Augeri, Carla; Corselli, Mirko; Ghersi, Chiara; Chiavarina, Barbara; Rodella, Luigi F; L'Abbate, Antonio; Drummond, George; Abraham, Nader G; Frassoni, Francesco

2009-01-01

Background Atherosclerosis progression is accelerated in diabetes mellitus (DM) by either direct endothelial damage or reduced availability and function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Both alterations are related to increased oxidant damage. Aim We examined if DM specifically impairs vascular signaling, thereby reducing the recruitment of normal EPCs, and if increases in antioxidant levels by induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) can reverse this condition. Methods Control and diabetic rats were treated with the HO-1 inducer cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) once a week for 3 weeks. Eight weeks after the development of diabetes, EPCs harvested from the aorta of syngenic inbred normal rats and labeled with technetium-99m-exametazime were infused via the femoral vein to estimate their blood clearance and aortic recruitment. Circulating endothelial cells (CECs) and the aortic expression of thrombomodulin (TM), CD31, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were used to measure endothelial damage. Results DM reduced blood clearance and aortic recruitment of EPCs. Both parameters were returned to control levels by CoPP treatment without affecting EPC kinetics in normal animals. These abnormalities of EPCs in DM were paralleled by reduced serum adiponectin levels, increased numbers of CECs, reduced endothelial expression of phosphorylated eNOS, and reduced levels of TM, CD31, and phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK). CoPP treatment restored all of these parameters to normal levels. Conclusion Type II DM and its related oxidant damage hamper the interaction between the vascular wall and normal EPCs by mechanisms that are, at least partially, reversed by the induction of HO-1 gene expression, adiponectin, and pAMPK levels. PMID:19038792

Hybrid promoters directed tBid gene expression to breast cancer cells by transcriptional targeting.

PubMed

Farokhimanesh, Samila; Rahbarizadeh, Fatemeh; Rasaee, Mohammad J; Kamali, Abbas; Mashkani, Baratali

2010-01-01

Developing cancer gene therapy constructs based on transcriptional targeting of genes to cancer cells is a new and promising modality for treatment of cancer. Introducing truncated Bid (tBid), a recently known member of the Bcl-2 family, eradicates cancer cells efficiently. For transcriptional targeting of tBid, two dual-specificity promoters, combining cancer specific core promoters and response modules, were designed. These two core promoter modules contained cancer specific promoters of MUC1 and Survivin genes accompanied by hypoxia-responsive elements and estrogen responsive elements (microenvironment condition of breast cancer cells) which were employed to achieve a higher and more specific level of tBid expression in breast cancer cells. Correlation of the level of tBid expression in normal and cancer cell lines with promoter activity was measured by RT-PCR after treatment with hypoxia and estrogen. The level of tBid expression under control of new hybrid promoters was compared with its expression under control of cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter as a control. Our data revealed that the level of tBid expression in breast cancer cells were nearly 11 times more than normal cells because of the cancer specific promoters, although tBid expression under control of CMV promoter was almost the same in normal and cancer cell lines. Increased apoptosis was detected in the transfected breast cancer cell lines by the Caspase-3 activity assay. The application of these promoters may prove to have the advantage of tumor selective gene therapy in breast cancer cells and low-potential toxicity for normal tissues.

Subclinical impairment of ovarian reserve in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with normal menstruation not using alkylating therapy.

PubMed

Ma, Wenhong; Zhan, Zhongping; Liang, Xiaoyan; Chen, Jianhui; Huang, Xingfang; Liao, Caiyun

2013-12-01

Disease activity is a major factor in menstrual disorders in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients not receiving alkylating therapy. However, the ovarian reserve of SLE women with normal menstruation is still unclear. Twenty-three SLE patients naïve to cytotoxic agents (SLE group) and nineteen SLE patients receiving current or previous cyclophosphamide (CTX) therapy (without other cytotoxic agents; SLE-CTX group) were enrolled. Twenty-one age-matched healthy women served as controls. All patients and controls had a regular menstrual cycle. Basal hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and antral follicle count (AFC) were analyzed in the two study groups and compared with the control group. No significant differences were found between the SLE, SLE-CTX, and control groups in age, body mass index (BMI), and basal FSH and LH levels. The E2 (P=0.023) levels were high and the AMH (P=0.000) values and AFC (P=0.001) were significantly lower in the SLE and SLE-CTX groups compared to control. However, these values were similar between the SLE and SLE-CTX groups. SLE patients not receiving alkylating therapy who had normal menstruation and short illness duration still had an impaired ovarian reserve.

Prolactin and hostility in hospitalised patients and healthy women: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Barry, J A; Moran, E; Thomas, M; Hardiman, P J

2015-01-01

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess any difference in the self-ratings of hostility in mentally healthy women with different levels of prolactin (PRL). Electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library) were searched up to 2nd July 2012 for published literature comparing hostility levels in women with different levels of PRL. Keyword pairs ('prolactin' and 'aggression', 'prolactin' and 'hostil*', 'prolactin' and 'anger', and 'prolactin' and 'angry') were entered simultaneously. From 1065 resulting titles, and one unpublished study, 214 articles underwent full-text review by authors JB and EM. Studies were selected based on clinical relevance. Eight comparative studies consisting of 242 female patients with high PRL levels, 207 female patients with normal PRL levels and 127 healthy controls with normal PRL levels were included. Data were analysed using the inverse variance method with a random-effects model. Analysis revealed significantly higher hostility in patients with high PRL compared with that in healthy control women (Z = 1.94, p < 0.05; Hedges' g = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.01-1.45), significantly higher hostility in patient controls compared with that in healthy controls (Z = 1.94, p < 0.05; Hedges' g = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.00-0.94) and non-significantly higher hostility levels in patients with high PRL compared with that in patients with normal PRL levels (Z = 1.45, p < 0.15; Hedges' g = 0.38; 95% CI: -0.13-0.89). In this meta-analysis, hostility appears to be accounted for partly by PRL levels and also partly by patient status, perhaps due to the stress of being a patient. Methodological considerations and implications for patient care are discussed.

Serum progranulin irrelated with Breg cell levels, but elevated in RA patients, reflecting high disease activity.

PubMed

Chen, Jiaxi; Li, Shuang; Shi, Jianfeng; Zhang, Lili; Li, Jun; Chen, Shiyong; Wu, Chunlong; Shen, Bo

2016-03-01

Soluble progranulin (PGRN) is known to directly regulate regulatory T cells; however, whether PGRN levels are elevated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and affect the regulatory subsets of B cells remain unknown. In this study, a total of 80 RA patients and 60 healthy controls were studied. Serum progranulin levels were determined using enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the feasibility of serum PGRN as a biomarker for distinguishing patients with RA. CD19(+)CD5(+)GrB(+) B cells were analyzed by flow cytometry in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Serum progranulin levels in RA patients (median, 59.4 ng/mL) and in RA patients DAS28 > 5.1 (median, 71.98 ng/mL) were much higher than those in normal controls (median, 46.3 ng/mL; P < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve for progranulin levels was 0.705 for RA versus normal controls and the area under the ROC curve for progranulin levels in RA patients DAS28 > 5.1 was 0.977 versus normal controls (P < 0.001). Interestingly, serum progranulin and DAS28, CRP, ESR were all positively correlated in RA patients (P < 0.001). The number of CD19(+)CD5(+)GrB(+) B cells was significantly higher in RA patients (P < 0.05); however, the level of Breg cells was not related to PGRN (P > 0.05). Our findings indicated that induction of PGRN expression may play a role in RA immune reaction and PGRN levels could be a useful biomarker in RA inflammatory response, but irrelated with Breg cell levels.

[Intelligence level and intelligence structure of children with primary nocturnal enuresis].

PubMed

Dai, Xiao-Mei; Ma, Hong-Wei; Pan, Xue-Xia

2007-10-01

Some research has shown that there may be memory/caution (M/C) defects in children with primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE). This study aimed to investigate whether the defects affect the intelligence level and the intelligence structure in PNE children. Intelligence tests were performed by means of Wechsler Young Children Scales of Intelligence (C-WISC) in 40 children with PNE and 40 age-matched normal children. The full intelligence quotient (FIQ), verbal IQ (VIQ) and performances IQ (PIQ) in the PNE group were in a normal range and did not different from the control group. There were significant differences in the scores for digit extent, decipher, knowledge and arithmetics between the PNE and the control groups (P < 0.05). M/C factor in the PNE group was statistically lower than in the control group (93.44 +/-11.27 vs 100.03 +/-11.79; P < 0.05). The total intelligence level of children with PNE was normal, but the M/C factor in the intelligence structure had some defects, suggesting that PNE may be related to the abnormity of executive function in the frontal lobe.

A developmental dose-response analysis of the effects of methylphenidate on the peer interactions of attention deficit disordered boys.

PubMed

Cunningham, C E; Siegel, L S; Offord, D R

1985-11-01

Mixed dyads of 42 normal and 42 ADD boys were videotaped in free play, co-operative task, and simulated classrooms. ADD boys received placebo, 0.15 mg/kg, and 0.50 mg/kg of methylphenidate. ADD boys were more active and off task, watched peers less, and scored lower on mathematics and visual-motor tasks. Older boys interacted less, ignored peer interactions and play more frequently, were less controlling, and more compliant. In class, methylphenidate improved visual motor scores, and reduced the controlling behaviour, activity level, and off task behaviour of ADD boys. Normal peers displayed reciprocal reductions in controlling behaviour, activity level, and off task behaviour.

Resveratrol alleviates diabetes-induced testicular dysfunction by inhibiting oxidative stress and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling in rats

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Faid, Iman; Al-Hussaini, Heba; Kilarkaje, Narayana, E-mail: knarayana@hsc.edu.kw

Diabetes adversely affects reproductive functions in humans and animals. The present study investigated the effects of Resveratrol on diabetes-induced alterations in oxidative stress, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling and apoptosis in the testis. Adult male Wistar rats (13–15 weeks; n = 6/group) were segregated into 1) normal control, 2) Resveratrol-treated (5 mg/kg; ip; given during last 3 weeks), 3) Streptozotocin-induced diabetic and, 4) Resveratrol-treated diabetic groups, and euthanized on day 42 after the confirmation of diabetes. Resveratrol did not normalize blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Resveratrol supplementation recovered diabetes-induced decreases in reproductive organ weights, sperm count and motility, intra-testicularmore » levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase and an increase in 4-hydroxynonenal activities (P < 0.05). Resveratrol also recovered diabetes-induced increases in JNK signaling pathway proteins, namely, ASK1 (apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1), JNKs (46 and 54 kDa isoforms) and p-JNK to normal control levels (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the expression of a down-stream target of ASK1, MKK4 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4) and its phosphorylated form (p-MKK4) did not change in experimental groups. Resveratrol inhibited diabetes-induced increases in AP-1 (activator protein-1) components, c-Jun and ATF2 (activating transcription factor 2), but not their phosphorylated forms, to normal control levels (P < 0.05). Further, Resveratrol inhibited diabetes-induced increase in cleaved-caspase-3 to normal control levels. In conclusion, Resveratrol alleviates diabetes-induced apoptosis in testis by modulating oxidative stress, JNK signaling pathway and caspase-3 activities, but not by inhibiting hyperglycemia, in rats. These results suggest that Resveratrol supplementation may be a useful strategy to treat diabetes-induced testicular dysfunction. - Highlights: • Resveratrol up-regulates glutathione peroxidase and catalase levels in the testis. • Diabetes up-regulates oxidative stress and JNK pathway in the testis. • Resveratrol inhibits diabetes-induced oxidative stress and JNK pathway. • Resveratrol mitigates diabetes-induced apoptosis of testicular cells. • Resveratrol treatment alleviates diabetes-induced testicular dysfunction.« less

C-reactive protein and lipoprotein-a as markers of coronary heart disease in polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Güdücü, Nilgün; Işçi, Herman; Yiğiter, Alin Başgül; Dünder, Ilkkan

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors of coronary heart disease, CRP and Lipoprotein-a in polycystic ovary syndrome patients. Prospectively collected data of polycystic ovary syndrome patients (n=62) and control group (n=40) were compared. PCOS patients had higher HOMA-IR, CRP, DHEAS, free testosterone, FAI, LH and prolactin levels when compared to the control group. Lipoprotein-a levels did not differ between the groups. The obese PCOS group had statistically significantly higher fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, free testosterone, insulin, CRP and HOMA-IR and statistically significantly lower HDL and SHBG when compared to normal weight PCOS persons. Fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL, SHBG, CRP, Lipoprotein-a, FSH, LH, TSH, DHEAS and prolactin levels did not differ between the normal weight and obese control groups. CRP levels increase in polycystic ovary syndrome patients and can be used as a marker of coronary heart disease. Future studies can be directed at treatments to decrease CRP levels, including antiinflammatory treatments.

Assessment of exposure to organophosphate insecticides during spraying in Haiti: monitoring of urinary metabolites and blood cholinesterase levels*

PubMed Central

Warren, McWilson; Spencer, Harrison C.; Churchill, Frederick C.; Francois, Velly Jean; Hippolyte, Robert; Staiger, Michael A.

1985-01-01

Measurement of blood cholinesterase activity and of the urinary metabolites of fenitrothion (p-nitrocresol) and malathion (monocarboxylic acid) was used to assess the exposure to these insecticides of workers in the Haitian malaria control programme and of residents in the sprayed houses. Cholinesterase activity was significantly reduced at the end of the working week in 3 out of 28 fenitrothion workers. Urinary levels of p-nitrocresol (PNC) in the spraymen ranged from 2.2 to 25.2 mg/l. In fenitrothion workers who had no direct contact with spraying (weighers and supervisors), the cholinesterase activity remained ≥ 75% of the normal control value, and the urinary PNC levels were relatively low. Urinary malathion monocarboxylic acid (MCA) levels at the end of the working week ranged between 1.1 and 5.3 mg/l in workers using malathion and their blood cholinesterase activity remained essentially normal. In both groups of workers the cholinesterase levels improved and the urinary excretion of metabolites decreased after 2 days of rest from the spraying operations. In the residents of the sprayed houses, low concentrations of PNC and MCA were detected in the urine 1 day after spraying and measurable but reduced levels were still present after 7 days. In all these cases the cholinesterase activity remained ≥ 75% of the normal control value. PMID:3874716

Alterations in Protein Expression in Tree Shrew Sclera during Development of Lens-Induced Myopia and Recovery

PubMed Central

Norton, Thomas T.

2012-01-01

Purpose. During the development of, and recovery from, negative lens-induced myopia there is regulated remodeling of the scleral extracellular matrix (ECM) that controls the extensibility of the sclera. Difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) was used to identify and categorize proteins whose levels are altered in this process. Methods. Two groups of five tree shrews started monocular lens wear 24 days after eye opening (days of visual experience [VE]). The lens-induced myopia (LIM) group wore a −5 D lens for 4 days. The recovery (REC) group wore a −5 D lens for 11 days and then recovered for 4 days. Two normal groups (28 and 39 days of VE; n = 5 each) were also examined, age-matched to each of the treatment groups. Refractive and A-scan measures confirmed the effect of the treatments. Scleral proteins were isolated and resolved by DIGE. Proteins that differed in abundance were identified by mass spectrometry. Ingenuity pathway analysis was used to investigate potential biological pathway interactions. Results. During normal development (28–39 days of VE), eight proteins decreased and one protein increased in relative abundance. LIM-treated eyes were myopic and longer than control eyes; LIM-control eyes were slightly myopic compared with 28N eyes, indicating a yoking effect. In both the LIM-treated and the LIM-control eyes, there was a general downregulation from normal of proteins involved in transcription, cell adhesion, and protein synthesis. Additional proteins involved in cell adhesion, actin cytoskeleton, transcriptional regulation, and ECM structural proteins differed in the LIM-treated eyes versus normal but did not differ in the control eyes versus normal. REC-treated eyes were recovering from the induced myopia. REC-control eye refractions were not significantly different from the 39N eyes, and few proteins differed from age-matched normal eyes. The balance of protein expression in the REC-treated eyes, compared with normal eyes and REC-control eyes, shifted toward upregulation or a return to normal levels of proteins involved in cell adhesion, cell division, cytoskeleton, and ECM structural proteins, including upregulation of several cytoskeleton-related proteins not affected during myopia development. Conclusions. The DIGE procedure revealed new proteins whose abundance is altered during myopia development and recovery. Many of these are involved in cell-matrix adhesions, cytoskeleton, and transcriptional regulation and extend our understanding of the remodeling that controls the extensibility of the sclera. Reductions in these proteins during minus lens wear may produce the increased scleral viscoelasticity that results in faster axial elongation. Recovery is not a mirror image of lens-induced myopia—many protein levels, decreased during LIM, returned to normal, or slightly above normal, and additional cytoskeleton proteins were upregulated. However, no single protein or pathway appeared to be responsible for the scleral changes during myopia development or recovery. PMID:22039233

Pioglitazone

MedlinePlus

... normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood). Pioglitazone is in a class ... insulin, a natural substance that helps control blood sugar levels. Pioglitazone is not used to treat type ...

Rosiglitazone

MedlinePlus

... normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood). Rosiglitazone is in a class ... insulin, a natural substance that helps control blood sugar levels. Rosiglitazone is not used to treat type ...

Kefir treatment ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in rats

PubMed Central

Senol, Altug; Isler, Mehmet; Sutcu, Recep; Akin, Mete; Cakir, Ebru; Ceyhan, Betul M; Kockar, M Cem

2015-01-01

AIM: To investigate the preventive effect of kefir on colitis induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in rats. METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar-albino rats were randomized into four groups: normal control, kefir-control, colitis, and kefir-colitis groups. Rats in the normal and kefir-control groups were administered tap water as drinking water for 14 d. Rats in the colitis and kefir-colitis groups were administered a 3% DSS solution as drinking water for 8-14 d to induce colitis. Rats in the kefir-control and kefir-colitis groups were administered 5 mL kefir once a day for 14 d while rats in the normal control and colitis group were administered an identical volume of the placebo (skim milk) using an orogastric feeding tube. Clinical colitis was evaluated with reference to the disease activity index (DAI), based on daily weight loss, stool consistency, and presence of bleeding in feces. Rats were sacrificed on the 15th day, blood specimens were collected, and colon tissues were rapidly removed. Levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-10, malondialdehyde, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were measured in colon tissue. RESULTS: The DAI was lower in the kefir-colitis group than in the colitis group (on the 3rd and 5th days of colitis induction; P < 0.01). The DAI was also significantly higher in the colitis group between days 2 and 6 of colitis induction when compared to the normal control and kefir-control groups. The DAI was statistically higher only on the 6th day in the kefir-colitis group when compared to that in the normal control groups. Increased colon weight and decreased colon length were observed in colitis-induced rats. Mean colon length in the colitis group was significantly shorter than that of the kefir-control group. Kefir treatment significantly decreased histologic colitis scores (P < 0.05). MPO activity in the colitis group was significantly higher than in the kefir-control group (P < 0.05). Kefir treatment significantly reduced the DSS colitis-induced TNF-α increase (P < 0.01). No statistically significant differences were observed among groups for IL-10 and MDA levels. Colon tissue iNOS levels in the colitis group were significantly higher than those in the control and kefir-colitis groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Kefir reduces the clinical DAI and histologic colitis scores in a DSS-induced colitis model, possibly via reduction of MPO, TNF-α, and iNOS levels. PMID:26676086

Kefir treatment ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in rats.

PubMed

Senol, Altug; Isler, Mehmet; Sutcu, Recep; Akin, Mete; Cakir, Ebru; Ceyhan, Betul M; Kockar, M Cem

2015-12-14

To investigate the preventive effect of kefir on colitis induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar-albino rats were randomized into four groups: normal control, kefir-control, colitis, and kefir-colitis groups. Rats in the normal and kefir-control groups were administered tap water as drinking water for 14 d. Rats in the colitis and kefir-colitis groups were administered a 3% DSS solution as drinking water for 8-14 d to induce colitis. Rats in the kefir-control and kefir-colitis groups were administered 5 mL kefir once a day for 14 d while rats in the normal control and colitis group were administered an identical volume of the placebo (skim milk) using an orogastric feeding tube. Clinical colitis was evaluated with reference to the disease activity index (DAI), based on daily weight loss, stool consistency, and presence of bleeding in feces. Rats were sacrificed on the 15(th) day, blood specimens were collected, and colon tissues were rapidly removed. Levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-10, malondialdehyde, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were measured in colon tissue. The DAI was lower in the kefir-colitis group than in the colitis group (on the 3(rd) and 5(th) days of colitis induction; P < 0.01). The DAI was also significantly higher in the colitis group between days 2 and 6 of colitis induction when compared to the normal control and kefir-control groups. The DAI was statistically higher only on the 6(th) day in the kefir-colitis group when compared to that in the normal control groups. Increased colon weight and decreased colon length were observed in colitis-induced rats. Mean colon length in the colitis group was significantly shorter than that of the kefir-control group. Kefir treatment significantly decreased histologic colitis scores (P < 0.05). MPO activity in the colitis group was significantly higher than in the kefir-control group (P < 0.05). Kefir treatment significantly reduced the DSS colitis-induced TNF-α increase (P < 0.01). No statistically significant differences were observed among groups for IL-10 and MDA levels. Colon tissue iNOS levels in the colitis group were significantly higher than those in the control and kefir-colitis groups (P < 0.05). Kefir reduces the clinical DAI and histologic colitis scores in a DSS-induced colitis model, possibly via reduction of MPO, TNF-α, and iNOS levels.

Inulin-type fructan improves diabetic phenotype and gut microbiota profiles in rats

PubMed Central

Xin, Fengjiao; Yu, Xiaobing

2018-01-01

Background & Aims Accumulating research has addressed the linkage between the changes to gut microbiota structure and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Inulin is one type of soluble dietary fiber that can alleviate T2D. As a prebiotic, inulin cannot be digested by humans, but rather is digested by probiotics. However, whether inulin treatment can benefit the entire gut bacteria community remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the differences in gut microbiota composition among diabetic, inulin-treated diabetic, normal control, and inulin-treated normal control rats. Methods A diabetic rat model was generated by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin injections (HF/STZ). Inulin was orally administered to normal and diabetic rats. To determine the composition of the gut microbiota, fecal DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene 454 pyrosequencing were performed. Results We found that inulin treatment reduced fasting blood glucose levels and alleviated glucose intolerance and blood lipid panels in diabetic rats. Additionally, inulin treatment increased the serum glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) level, reduced serum IL-6 level, Il6 expression in epididymal adipose tissue, and Pepck, G6pc expression in liver of diabetic rats. Pyrophosphate sequencing of the 16s V3–V4 region demonstrated an elevated proportion of Firmicutes and a reduced abundance of Bacteroidetes at the phylogenetic level in diabetic rats compared to normal control rats. The characteristics of the gut microbiota in control and inulin-treated rats were similar. Inulin treatment can normalize the composition of the gut microbiota in diabetic rats. At the family and genus levels, probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria Lachnospiraceae, Phascolarctobacterium, and Bacteroides were found to be significantly more abundant in the inulin-treated diabetic group than in the non-treated diabetic group. In addition, inulin-treated rats had a lower abundance of Desulfovibrio, which produce lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The abundance of Lachnospiraceae was negatively correlated with the blood glucose response after a glucose load. Conclusion In summary, diabetic rats have different gut microbiota from control rats. Inulin treatment can alleviate gut microbiota dysbiosis in T2D model rats. Moreover, inulin treatment enhanced serum GLP-1 level to suppress IL-6 secretion and production and hepatic gluconeogenesis, resulted in moderation of insulin tolerance. PMID:29507837

Inulin-type fructan improves diabetic phenotype and gut microbiota profiles in rats.

PubMed

Zhang, Qian; Yu, Hongyue; Xiao, Xinhua; Hu, Ling; Xin, Fengjiao; Yu, Xiaobing

2018-01-01

Accumulating research has addressed the linkage between the changes to gut microbiota structure and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Inulin is one type of soluble dietary fiber that can alleviate T2D. As a prebiotic, inulin cannot be digested by humans, but rather is digested by probiotics. However, whether inulin treatment can benefit the entire gut bacteria community remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the differences in gut microbiota composition among diabetic, inulin-treated diabetic, normal control, and inulin-treated normal control rats. A diabetic rat model was generated by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin injections (HF/STZ). Inulin was orally administered to normal and diabetic rats. To determine the composition of the gut microbiota, fecal DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene 454 pyrosequencing were performed. We found that inulin treatment reduced fasting blood glucose levels and alleviated glucose intolerance and blood lipid panels in diabetic rats. Additionally, inulin treatment increased the serum glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) level, reduced serum IL-6 level, Il6 expression in epididymal adipose tissue, and Pepck , G6pc expression in liver of diabetic rats. Pyrophosphate sequencing of the 16s V3-V4 region demonstrated an elevated proportion of Firmicutes and a reduced abundance of Bacteroidetes at the phylogenetic level in diabetic rats compared to normal control rats. The characteristics of the gut microbiota in control and inulin-treated rats were similar. Inulin treatment can normalize the composition of the gut microbiota in diabetic rats. At the family and genus levels, probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria Lachnospiraceae , Phascolarctobacterium , and Bacteroides were found to be significantly more abundant in the inulin-treated diabetic group than in the non-treated diabetic group. In addition, inulin-treated rats had a lower abundance of Desulfovibrio , which produce lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The abundance of Lachnospiraceae was negatively correlated with the blood glucose response after a glucose load. In summary, diabetic rats have different gut microbiota from control rats. Inulin treatment can alleviate gut microbiota dysbiosis in T2D model rats. Moreover, inulin treatment enhanced serum GLP-1 level to suppress IL-6 secretion and production and hepatic gluconeogenesis, resulted in moderation of insulin tolerance.

Comparison of serum vaspin levels and vaspin expression in adipose tissue and smooth muscle tissue in pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes.

PubMed

Tang, Yuping; Qiao, Ping; Qu, Xiaoxian; Bao, Yirong; Li, Yuhong; Liao, Yini; Ying, Hao

2017-10-01

Vaspin is associated with metabolic parameters and insulin resistance. However, the expression of vaspin in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has not been fully explored, and the contribution of vaspin to the biological mechanisms underlying GDM remains unclear. This study aimed to compare circulating vaspin levels and its expression in different insulin target tissues including subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), VAT and smooth muscle tissue (SMT) in pregnant women with and without GDM. A total of 37 women with GDM (GDM group) and 37 normal pregnant women (control group) were selected. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin (FINS) and serum vaspin levels were quantified at term, and homeostasis model of assessment2-insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR) values were calculated. RT-qPCR and Western blotting were used to measure mRNA and protein levels of vaspin in VAT, SAT and SMT of 15 GDM women and normal pregnant women. In the GDM group, serum vaspin concentrations were significantly higher than in the control group. Serum vaspin levels were positively correlated with HOMA2-IR in the GDM group but not in the control group. In the GDM group, vaspin mRNA and protein expression levels in SAT and VAT were both significantly higher than in controls, but no difference was found in SMT. Moreover, relative mRNA but not protein expression levels of vaspin in SAT were highest among the three tissues in both groups. Circulating vaspin levels and expression of vaspin in SAT and VAT were higher in GDM women than in normal pregnant women. However, the specific role of vaspin from SAT and VAT in the pathogenesis of GDM needs further study. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Changes in levels of peripheral hormones controlling appetite are inconsistent with hyperphagia in leptin-deficient subjects.

PubMed

Saeed, Sadia; Bech, Paul R; Hafeez, Tayyaba; Alam, Rabail; Falchi, Mario; Ghatei, Mohammad A; Bloom, Stephen R; Arslan, Muhammad; Froguel, Philippe

2014-04-01

Congenital leptin deficiency, a rare genetic disorder due to a homozygous mutation in the leptin gene (LEP), is accompanied by extreme obesity and hyperphagia. A number of gastrointestinal hormones have been shown to critically regulate food intake but their physiological role in hyperphagic response in congenital leptin deficiency has not been elucidated. This study is the first to evaluate the fasting and postprandial profiles of gut-derived hormones in homozygous and heterozygous carriers of LEP mutation. The study subjects from two consanguineous families consisted of five homozygous and eight heterozygous carriers of LEP mutation, c.398delG. Ten wild-type normal-weight subjects served as controls. Fasting and 1-h postprandial plasma ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide (GLP) 1, peptide YY (PYY), leptin and insulin levels were measured by immunoassays. Fasting plasma ghrelin levels in homozygotes remained remarkably unchanged following food consumption (P = 0.33) in contrast to a significant decline in heterozygous (P < 0.03) and normal (P < 0.02) subjects. A significant postprandial increase in PYY was observed in heterozygous (P < 0.02) and control subjects (P < 0.01), but not in the homozygous group (P = 0.22). A postprandial rise in GLP-1 levels was significant (P < 0.02) in all groups. Interestingly, fasting leptin levels in heterozygotes were not significantly different from controls and did not change significantly following meal. Our results demonstrate that gut hormones play little or no physiological role in driving the hyperphagic response of leptin-deficient subjects. In contrast, fasting and postprandial levels of gut hormones in heterozygous mutation carriers were comparable to those of normal-weight controls.

Lack of correlation between serum soluble Fas/APO-1 levels and autoimmune disease.

PubMed

Goel, N; Ulrich, D T; St Clair, E W; Fleming, J A; Lynch, D H; Seldin, M F

1995-12-01

To determine whether elevated soluble Fas/APO-1 (sFas/APO-1) levels are associated with either autoimmune disease or evidence of flares in autoimmune disease. Thirty-seven serum samples were retrospectively obtained from normal controls and patients with laboratory evidence of autoimmune disease activity. These samples were assayed for sFas/APO-1 levels by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and hospital medical records were retrospectively reviewed for clinical and laboratory characteristics of the patients. Soluble Fas/APO-1 levels did not correlate with clinical diagnoses or laboratory abnormalities. The mean and range of sFas/APO-1 levels were similar in systemic lupus erythematosus patients (including those with active disease), patients with other autoimmune diseases, and normal controls. These data strongly suggest that measurement of sFas/APO-1 levels is unlikely to hold clinical value or play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease.

A Comparative Study of Autistic Subjects' Performance at Two Levels of Visual and Cognitive Perspective Taking.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reed, Taffy; Peterson, Candida

1990-01-01

This study found that 13 autistic subjects performed less well on cognitive than on visual perspective-taking tasks at two levels of difficulty. Autistic subjects performed as well as 13 intellectually handicapped controls and 13 normal controls on visual perspective-taking tasks but more poorly than controls on cognitive perspective-taking tasks.…

Assessment of vitamin D status and serum CrossLaps levels in adults with primary lactose malabsorption.

PubMed

Enko, D; Kriegshäuser, G; Stolba, R; Mangge, H; Brandstetter, D; Mayr, N; Forstner, T; Halwachs-Baumann, G

2016-09-01

Primary adult-type lactose malabsorption (PALM) is a widespread inherited autosomal recessive condition, which is considered to be associated with osteoporosis. This prospective study aimed at assessing the 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D) status and serum CrossLaps levels in individuals with PALM and normal controls. All participants (n=210) underwent genotyping for the LCT C/T-13910 polymorphism, 25(OH)D and CrossLaps measurements and clinical examinations. In addition, the anthropometric data (that is, height, weight and body mass index) were determined. Fifty-five individuals with PALM (that is, LCT C/C-13910 homozygotes) showed lower 25(OH)D (mean: 24.95±10.04 vs 28.59±9.56 ng/ml, P=0.018) and higher CrossLaps serum levels (mean: 0.46±0.31 vs 0.43±0.49 ng/ml, P=0.251) compared with 155 normal controls (that is, LCT C/T-13910 hetero- or T/T-13910 homozygotes). Anthropometric data were similar between PALM probands and controls. Individuals with PALM were found to have lower 25(OH)D and higher CrossLaps serum levels compared with normal controls. In order to preserve life-long bone health, routine 25(OH)D and CrossLaps serum measurements should be performed in individuals with PALM.

Deductive and inductive reasoning in Parkinson's disease patients and normal controls: review and experimental evidence.

PubMed

Natsopoulos, D; Katsarou, Z; Alevriadou, A; Grouios, G; Bostantzopoulou, S; Mentenopoulos, G

1997-09-01

In the present study, fifty-four subjects were tested; twenty-seven with idiopathic Parkinson's disease and twenty-seven normal controls matched in age, education, verbal ability, level of depression, sex and socio-economic status. The subjects were tested on eight tasks. Five of the tasks were the classic deductive reasoning syllogisms, modus ponens, modus tollendo tollens, affirming the consequent, denying the antecedent and three-term series problems phrased in a factual context (brief scripts). Three of the tasks were inductive reasoning, including logical inferences, metaphors and similes. All tasks were presented to subjects in a multiple choice format. The results, overall, have shown nonsignificant differences between the two groups in deductive and inductive reasoning, an ability traditionally associated with frontal lobes involvement. Of the comparisons performed between subgroups of the patients and normal controls concerning disease duration, disease onset and predominant involvement of the left and/or right hemisphere, significant differences were found between patients with earlier disease onset and normal controls and between bilaterally affected patients and normal controls, demonstrating an additive effect of lateralization to reasoning ability.

Evaluation of seminal plasma proteomics and relevance of FSH in identification of nonobstructive azoospermia: A preliminary study.

PubMed

Cui, Z; Agarwal, A; da Silva, B F; Sharma, R; Sabanegh, E

2018-06-01

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients present with high levels of serum FSH. At the protein level, the aetiology and pathways underlying different subtypes of NOA are unclear. The aim was to evaluate quantitatively differences in proteomic profiles of NOA patients presenting with normal serum FSH and normal testicular volume and high serum FSH and small testicular volume. The study comprised of 14 nonobstructive azoospermic men (N = 4; normal FSH and normal testicular volume and N = 10; high FSH and small testicular volume) and seven normozoospermic men. Proteomic analysis was done using LC-MS. GSTM3 and PGK2 were less abundant in the normal and high FSH group compared to controls. HSPA4L and HSPA4 were exclusively present in control group whereas HSP90AB1, HSPA1B, HSP90AA1 and HSPA2 were less abundant and exclusive to the normal and high FSH group. We have identified six heat-shock proteins that may have a role in the pathology of NOA. FSH and testicular volume by itself are not good markers of NOA. The inverse association of GSTM3 and PGK2 regulation with FSH levels along with 12 proteins exclusively in NOA groups suggests further evaluation of their predictive potential in a larger cohort of patients. © 2018 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Is serum zinc level associated with prediabetes and diabetes?: a cross-sectional study from Bangladesh.

PubMed

Islam, Md Rafiqul; Arslan, Iqbal; Attia, John; McEvoy, Mark; McElduff, Patrick; Basher, Ariful; Rahman, Waliur; Peel, Roseanne; Akhter, Ayesha; Akter, Shahnaz; Vashum, Khanrin P; Milton, Abul Hasnat

2013-01-01

To determine serum zinc level and other relevant biological markers in normal, prediabetic and diabetic individuals and their association with Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) parameters. This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and December 2009. Any patient aged ≥ 30 years attending the medicine outpatient department of a medical university hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh and who had a blood glucose level ordered by a physician was eligible to participate. A total of 280 participants were analysed. On fasting blood sugar results, 51% were normal, 13% had prediabetes and 36% had diabetes. Mean serum zinc level was lowest in prediabetic compared to normal and diabetic participants (mean differences were approximately 65 ppb/L and 33 ppb/L, respectively). In multiple linear regression, serum zinc level was found to be significantly lower in prediabetes than in those with normoglycemia. Beta cell function was significantly lower in prediabetes than normal participants. Adjusted linear regression for HOMA parameters did not show a statistically significant association between serum zinc level, beta cell function (P = 0.07) and insulin resistance (P = 0.08). Low serum zinc accentuated the increase in insulin resistance seen with increasing BMI. Participants with prediabetes have lower zinc levels than controls and zinc is significantly associated with beta cell function and insulin resistance. Further longitudinal population based studies are warranted and controlled trials would be valuable for establishing whether zinc supplementation in prediabetes could be a useful strategy in preventing progression to Type 2 diabetes.

Plasma serotonin in patients with chronic tension headaches.

PubMed

Anthony, M; Lance, J W

1989-02-01

Previous reports have suggested that platelet level of serotonin in chronic tension headache (CTH) is lower than in normal control subjects, and that there is continuous activation of platelets both in migraine and in CTH. In this study we compared platelet serotonin concentration in 95 patients with CTH, 166 patients with migraine and 35 normal control subjects. Mean platelet serotonin (ng/10(9) platelets) was 310 for the CTH group, 384 during migraine headache, 474 for normal control subjects and 514 in headache-free migrainous patients. There was significant statistical difference of values between CTH patients and those of normal control subjects as well as headache-free migrainous patients, but not of those of migrainous patients during headache. It is suggested that CTH is a low serotonin syndrome, representing one end of the spectrum of idiopathic headache, the other end being represented by migraine.

Sex hormones affect language lateralisation but not cognitive control in normally cycling women.

PubMed

Hodgetts, Sophie; Weis, Susanne; Hausmann, Markus

2015-08-01

This article is part of a Special Issue "Estradiol and Cognition". Natural fluctuations of sex hormones during the menstrual cycle have been shown to modulate language lateralisation. Using the dichotic listening (DL) paradigm, a well-established measurement of language lateralisation, several studies revealed that the left hemispheric language dominance was stronger when levels of estradiol were high. A recent study (Hjelmervik et al., 2012) showed, however, that high levels of follicular estradiol increased lateralisation only in a condition that required participants to cognitively control (top-down) the stimulus-driven (bottom-up) response. This finding suggested that sex hormones modulate lateralisation only if cognitive control demands are high. The present study investigated language lateralisation in 73 normally cycling women under three attention conditions that differed in cognitive control demands. Saliva estradiol and progesterone levels were determined by luminescence immunoassays. Women were allocated to a high or low estradiol group. The results showed a reduced language lateralisation when estradiol and progesterone levels were high. The effect was independent of the attention condition indicating that estradiol marginally affected cognitive control. The findings might suggest that high levels of estradiol especially reduce the stimulus-driven (bottom-up) aspect of lateralisation rather than top-down cognitive control. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment of neutrophil apoptosis ex vivo in hepatosplenic patients with neutropenia pre and post splenectomy.

PubMed

Aref, Salah E; Mahmoud, L A; El Refie, M F; Abdel Wahab, M; Abou Samara, N

2003-08-01

The pathophysiology of neutropenia seen in patients with schistosomiasis or hepatitis C infection that complicates the course of liver disease is poorly understood. We evaluated the neutrophil apoptosis before and after splenectomy to clarify the role of apoptosis and splenomegaly in the occurrence of neutropenia. Neutrophils were isolated from 23 hepato-splenic patients with neutropenia, 8 hepatosplenic patients with normal neutrophil counts, 7 patients who were post splenectomy, and a further ten normal control subjects. These were cultured for 24 h and the time course of neutrophil apoptosis was assessed by determination of Annexin V and propidium iodide binding by flow cytometry. Fas and Bcl2 expression were determined on fresh neutrophils using flow cytometry. Levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 3, and gamma interferon were evaluated using an immunosorbent assay. Neutrophil apoptosis was minimal in the fresh neutrophils, however, cultured neutrophils exhibited significantly greater apoptosis in neutropenic patients when compared to non-neutropenic patients (P=0.01 at 4 h and P<0.05 at 24 h) and control group (P<0.01 at 4 h and 24 h). After splenectomy, the percentage of neutrophil apoptosis declined to the normal control levels (P>0.05). Fas and Bcl2 expression on neutrophil were significantly higher in the neutropenic group as compared to normal controls (P<0.05, P=0.01 respectively). Serum TNF alpha, IL-3, and IFN gamma levels were not significantly different in all studied groups. Neutrophils from neutropenic hepatosplenic patients exhibit markedly accelerated apoptosis, which is normalized after splenectomy. Thus increased neutrophil apoptosis may in part be responsible for the occurrence of neutropenia.

Hypobaric Control of Ethylene-Induced Leaf Senescence in Intact Plants of Phaseolus vulgaris L. 1

PubMed Central

Nilsen, Karl N.; Hodges, Clinton F.

1983-01-01

A controlled atmospheric-environment system (CAES) designed to sustain normal or hypobaric ambient growing conditions was developed, described, and evaluated for its effectiveness as a research tool capable of controlling ethylene-induced leaf senescence in intact plants of Phaseolus vulgaris L. Senescence was prematurely-induced in primary leaves by treatment with 30 parts per million ethephon. Ethephon-derived endogenous ethylene reached peak levels within 6 hours at 26°C. Total endogenous ethylene levels then temporarily stabilized at approximately 1.75 microliters per liter from 6 to 24 hours. Thereafter, a progressive rise in ethylene resulted from leaf tissue metabolism and release. Throughout the study, the endogenous ethylene content of ethephon-treated leaves was greater than that of nontreated leaves. Subjecting ethephon-treated leaves to atmospheres of 200 millibars, with O2 and CO2 compositions set to approximate normal atmospheric partial pressures, prevented chlorophyll loss. Alternately, subjecting ethephon-treated plants to 200 millibars of air only partially prevented chlorophyll loss. Hypobaric conditions (200 millibars), with O2 and CO2 at normal atmospheric availability, could be delayed until 48 hours after ethephon treatment and still prevent most leaf senescence. In conclusion, hypobaric conditions established and maintained within the CAES prevented ethylene-induced senescence (chlorosis) in intact plants, provided O2 and CO2 partial pressures were maintained at levels approximating normal ambient availability. An unexpected increase in endogenous ethylene was detected within nontreated control leaves 48 hours subsequent to relocation from winter greenhouse conditions (latitude, 42°00″ N) to the CAES operating at normal ambient pressure. The longer photoperiod and/or higher temperature utilized within the CAES are hypothesized to influence ethylene metabolism directly and growth-promotive processes (e.g. response thresholds) indirectly. PMID:16662806

Phosphoglycolate phosphatase and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in red cells of normal and anemic subjects.

PubMed

Somoza, R; Beutler, E

1983-10-01

Red cell phosphoglycolate phosphatase (PGP) and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) were investigated in normal and anemic patients and rabbits. In hemolytic anemia and blood-loss anemia, characterized by a young red cell population, there was an increase in both phosphoglycolate phosphatase activity and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels. In aplastic anemia, the phosphoglycolate phosphatase activity was normal, but the 2,3-diphosphoglycerate values were nonetheless increased. Thus, no relationship was found between phosphoglycolate phosphatase activity and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels. The lack of correlation between the activity of phosphoglycolate phosphatase and 2,3-DPG levels suggests that modulation of phosphoglycolate phosphatase activity does not control the level of 2,3-DPG in erythrocytes.

Gray Matter-White Matter De-Differentiation on Brain Computed Tomography Predicts Brain Death Occurrence.

PubMed

Vigneron, C; Labeye, V; Cour, M; Hannoun, S; Grember, A; Rampon, F; Cotton, F

2016-01-01

Previous studies have shown that a loss of distinction between gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) on unenhanced CT scans was predictive of poor outcome after cardiac arrest. The aim of this study was to identify a marker/predictor of imminent brain death. In this retrospective study, 15 brain-dead patients after anoxia and cardiac arrest were included. Patients were paired (1:1) with normal control subjects. Only patients' unenhanced CT scans performed before brain death and during the 24 hours after initial signs were analyzed. WM and GM densities were measured in predefined regions of interest (basal ganglia level, centrum semi-ovale level, high convexity level, brainstem level). At each level, GM and WM density and GM/WM ratio for brain-dead patients and normal control subjects were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. At each level, a lower GM/WM ratio and decreased GM and WM densities were observed in brain-dead patients' CT scans when compared with normal control subject CT scans. A cut-off value of 1.21 at the basal ganglia level was identified, below which brain death systematically occurred. GM/WM dedifferentiation on unenhanced CT scan is measurable before the occurrence of brain death, highlighting its importance in brain death prediction. The mechanism of GM/WM differentiation loss could be explained by the lack of oxygen caused by ischemia initially affecting the mitochondrial system. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Study of serum thrombomodulin(TM) levels in patients with hyper- or hypo- thyroidism].

PubMed

Soma, M; Maeda, Y; Matsuura, R; Sasaki, I; Kasakura, S; Saeki, Y; Ikekubo, K; Ishihara, T; Kurahachi, H; Sasaki, S; Tagami, T; Nakao, K

1997-01-01

We studies a relationship between the serum levels of thrombomodulin(TM) and the thyroid functions. Serum TM levels were measured in 48 patients with Graves' disease, 17 patients with primary hypothyroidism, 7 patients with subacute thyroiditis, 5 patients with painless thyroiditis and 2 patients with systematic Refetoff syndrome. These patients did not have malignant tumor, kidney failure, or blood vessel injury. Control sera were obtained from 42 healthy subjects. Serum levels of TM in patients with untreated Graves' disease were significantly higher(p < 0.001) compared with those in controls. Serum levels of TM in patients with hypothyroidism were not significantly changed as compared with those of controls. There were a positive correlation between the serum levels of TM and FT3 as well as FT4. Serial determinations of the serum levels of TM and thyroid function(FT3, FT4 and TH) in patients with Graves' disease during treatment showed that both the serum levels of TM and thyroid hormones (FT3 and FT4) lowered progressively during treatment. After normalization of serum FT3 and FT4, the serum TM levels returned to normal. However, the serum levels of TM in patients with destructive thyroiditis and Refetoff syndrome were normal in spite of high serum levels of thyroid hormones. These data suggest that an increase in serum levels of TM is not the direct result of thyroid hormones themselves but is the result of the prolonged hypermetabolic state induced by their peripheral activities. Thyroid hormones may stimulate the synthesis or metabolism of TM on the surface of vascular endothelial cells in the patients with Graves' disease.

Oxidized LDL Is Strictly Limited to Hyperthyroidism Irrespective of Fat Feeding in Female Sprague Dawley Rats.

PubMed

Zelzer, Sieglinde; Mangge, Harald; Pailer, Sabine; Ainoedhofer, Herwig; Kieslinger, Petra; Stojakovic, Tatjana; Scharnagl, Hubert; Prüller, Florian; Weghuber, Daniel; Datz, Christian; Haybaeck, Johannes; Obermayer-Pietsch, Barbara; Trummer, Christian; Gostner, Johanna; Gruber, Hans-Jürgen

2015-05-21

Metabolic dysfunctions might play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of thyroid dysfunctions. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a controlled diet (normal versus high fat feeding) on hypothyroid and hyperthyroid Sprague Dawley rats. Female Sprague Dawley rats (n = 66) were grouped into normal diet (n = 30) and high-fat diet (n = 36) groups and subdivided into controls, hypothyroid and hyperthyroid groups, induced through propylthiouracil or triiodothyronine (T3) treatment, respectively. After 12 weeks of treatment metabolic parameters, such as oxidized LDL (oxLDL), malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), the lipid profile, body weight and food intake parameters were analyzed. Successfully induced thyroid dysfunctions were shown by T3 levels, both under normal and high fat diet. Thyroid dysfunctions were accompanied by changes in calorie intake and body weight as well as in the lipid profile. In detail, hypothyroid rats showed significantly decreased oxLDL levels, whereas hyperthyroid rats showed significantly increased oxLDL levels. These effects were seen under high fat diet and were less pronounced with normal feeding. Taken together, we showed for the first time in female SD rats that only hyper-, but not hypothyroidism, is associated with high atherogenic oxidized LDL irrespective of normal or high-fat diet in Sprague Dawley rats.

Efficacy determinants of subcutaneous microdose glucagon during closed-loop control.

PubMed

Russell, Steven J; El-Khatib, Firas H; Nathan, David M; Damiano, Edward R

2010-11-01

During a previous clinical trial of a closed-loop blood glucose (BG) control system that administered insulin and microdose glucagon subcutaneously, glucagon was not uniformly effective in preventing hypoglycemia (BG<70 mg/dl). After a global adjustment of control algorithm parameters used to model insulin absorption and clearance to more closely match insulin pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters observed in the study cohort, administration of glucagon by the control system was more effective in preventing hypoglycemia. We evaluated the role of plasma insulin and plasma glucagon levels in determining whether glucagon was effective in preventing hypoglycemia. We identified and analyzed 36 episodes during which glucagon was given and categorized them as either successful or unsuccessful in preventing hypoglycemia. In 20 of the 36 episodes, glucagon administration prevented hypoglycemia. In the remaining 16, BG fell below 70 mg/dl (12 of the 16 occurred during experiments performed before PK parameters were adjusted). The (dimensionless) levels of plasma insulin (normalized relative to each subject's baseline insulin level) were significantly higher during episodes ending in hypoglycemia (5.2 versus 3.7 times the baseline insulin level, p=.01). The relative error in the control algorithm's online estimate of the instantaneous plasma insulin level was also higher during episodes ending in hypoglycemia (50 versus 30%, p=.003), as were the peak plasma glucagon levels (183 versus 116 pg/ml, p=.007, normal range 50-150 pg/ml) and mean plasma glucagon levels (142 versus 75 pg/ml, p=.02). Relative to mean plasma insulin levels, mean plasma glucagon levels tended to be 59% higher during episodes ending in hypoglycemia, although this result was not found to be statistically significant (p=.14). The rate of BG descent was also significantly greater during episodes ending in hypoglycemia (1.5 versus 1.0 mg/dl/min, p=.02). Microdose glucagon administration was relatively ineffective in preventing hypoglycemia when plasma insulin levels exceeded the controller's online estimate by >60%. After the algorithm PK parameters were globally adjusted, insulin dosing was more conservative and microdose glucagon administration was very effective in reducing hypoglycemia while maintaining normal plasma glucagon levels. Improvements in the accuracy of the controller's online estimate of plasma insulin levels could be achieved if ultrarapid-acting insulin formulations could be developed with faster absorption and less intra- and intersubject variability than the current insulin analogs available today. © 2010 Diabetes Technology Society.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Utility of the Synaptic Marker Neurogranin in Alzheimer Disease.

PubMed

Tarawneh, Rawan; D'Angelo, Gina; Crimmins, Dan; Herries, Elizabeth; Griest, Terry; Fagan, Anne M; Zipfel, Gregory J; Ladenson, Jack H; Morris, John C; Holtzman, David M

2016-05-01

Synaptic loss is an early pathologic substrate of Alzheimer disease (AD). Neurogranin is a postsynaptic neuronal protein that has demonstrated utility as a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker of synaptic loss in AD. To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of CSF neurogranin levels in a large, well-characterized cohort of individuals with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls. A cross-sectional and longitudinal observational study of cognitive decline in patients with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls was performed. Participants were individuals with a clinical diagnosis of early symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls who were enrolled in longitudinal studies of aging and dementia at the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, from January 21, 2000, through March 21, 2011. Data analysis was performed from November 1, 2013, to March 31, 2015. Correlations between baseline CSF biomarker levels and future cognitive decline in patients with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls over time. A total of 302 individuals (mean [SE] age, 73.1 [0.4] years) were included in this study (95 patients [52 women and 43 men] with AD and 207 controls [125 women and 82 men]). The CSF neurogranin levels differentiated patients with early symptomatic AD from controls with comparable diagnostic utility (mean [SE] area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.71 [0.03]; 95% CI, 0.64-0.77) to the other CSF biomarkers. The CSF neurogranin levels correlated with brain atrophy (normalized whole-brain volumes: adjusted r = -0.38, P = .02; hippocampal volumes: adjusted r = -0.36, P = .03; entorhinal volumes: adjusted r = -0.46, P = .006; and parahippocampal volumes: adjusted r = -0.47, P = .005, n = 38) in AD and with amyloid load (r = 0.39, P = .02, n = 36) in preclinical AD. The CSF neurogranin levels predicted future cognitive impairment (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.29-2.78; P = .001 as a continuous measure, and adjusted hazard ratio, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.13-5.99; P = .02 as a categorical measure using the 85th percentile cutoff value) in controls and rates of cognitive decline (Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes score: β estimate, 0.29; P = .001; global composite scores: β estimate, -0.11; P = .001; episodic memory scores: β estimate, -0.18; P < .001; and semantic memory scores: β estimate, -0.06; P = .04, n = 57) in patients with symptomatic AD over time, similarly to the CSF proteins VILIP-1, tau, and p-tau181. The CSF levels of the synaptic marker neurogranin offer diagnostic and prognostic utility for early symptomatic AD that is comparable to other CSF markers of AD. Importantly, CSF neurogranin complements the collective ability of these markers to predict future cognitive decline in cognitively normal individuals and, therefore, will be a useful addition to the current panel of AD biomarkers.

Newly proposed hormonal criteria via genotypic proof for type II 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency.

PubMed

Lutfallah, Chantal; Wang, Weihua; Mason, J Ian; Chang, Ying Tai; Haider, Anzar; Rich, Barry; Castro-Magana, Mariano; Copeland, Kenneth C; David, Raphael; Pang, Songya

2002-06-01

To define the hormonal criteria via genotypic proof for 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3beta-HSD) deficiency in the adrenals and gonads, we investigated the type II 3beta-HSD genotype in 55 patients with clinical and/or hormonal presentation suggesting compromised adrenal with or without gonadal 3beta-HSD activity. Fourteen patients (11 males and 3 females) had ambiguous genitalia with or without salt wasting and with or without premature pubarche. One female neonate had salt wasting only. Twenty-five children (4 males and 21 females) had premature pubarche only. Fifteen adolescent and adult females had hirsutism with or without menstrual disorder. The type II 3beta-HSD gene, including the promoter region up to -1053 base, all exons I, II, III, IV, and exon and intron boundaries, was sequenced in all subjects. Eight patients had a proven or predictably deleterious mutation in both alleles of the type II 3beta-HSD gene, and 47 patients had no apparent mutation in the gene. ACTH-stimulated (1 h post iv bolus of 250 microg Cortrosyn) serum 17-hydroxypregnenolone (Delta5-17P) levels and basal and ACTH-stimulated ratios of Delta5-17P to cortisol (F) in the genotypic proven patients were unequivocally higher than those of age-matched or pubic hair stage matched genotype-normal patients or control subjects (n = 7-30 for each group). All other baseline and ACTH-stimulated hormone parameters, including dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels, ratios of Delta5-17P to 17-OHP and DHEA to androstenedione in the genotype-proven patients, overlapped with the genotype-normal patients or control subjects. The hormonal findings in the genotype-proven patients suggest that the following hormonal criteria are compatible with 3beta-HSD deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia (numeric and graphic reference standards from infancy to adulthood are provided): ACTH-stimulated Delta5-17P levels in 1) neonatal infants with ambiguous genitalia at or greater than 378 nmol/liter equivalent to or greater than 5.3 SD above the control mean level [95 +/- 53 (SD) nmol/liter]; 2) Tanner I children with ambiguous genitalia at or greater than 165 nmol/liter equivalent to or greater than 35 SD above the control mean level [12 +/- 4.3 (SD) nmol/liter]; 3) children with premature pubarche at or greater than 294 nmol/liter equivalent to or greater than 54 SD above Tanner II pubic hair stage matched control mean level [17 +/- 5 (SD) nmol/liter]; and 4) adults with at or greater than 289 nmol/liter equivalent to or greater than 21 SD above the normal mean level [25 +/- 12 (SD) nmol/liter]. ACTH-stimulated ratio of Delta5-17P to F in 1) neonatal infants at or greater than 434 equivalent to or greater than 6.4 SD above the control mean ratio [88 +/- 54 (SD)]; 2) Tanner I children at or greater than 216 equivalent to or greater than 23 SD above the control mean ratio [12 +/- 9 (SD)]; 3) children with premature pubarche at or greater than 363 equivalent to or greater than 38 SD above the control mean ratio [20 +/- 9 (SD)]; and 4) adults at or greater than 4010 equivalent to or greater than 221 SD above the normal mean ratio [29 +/- 18 (SD)]. Conversely, the hormonal data in the genotype-normal patients suggest the following hormonal criteria are not consistent with 3beta-HSD deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia: ACTH-stimulated Delta5-17P levels in children with premature pubarche up to 72 nmol/liter equivalent to up to 11 SD above the control mean level, and in hirsute females up to 150 nmol/liter equivalent to up to 12 SD above the normal female mean level [28 +/- 10 (SD) nmol/liter]; and ACTH-stimulated Delta5-17P to F ratio in children with premature pubarche up to 67 equivalent to up to 5 SD above the control mean ratio, and in hirsute females up to 151 equivalent to up to 10 SD above the normal mean ratio [32 +/- 12 (SD)]. These findings help define newly proposed hormonal criteria to accurately predict inherited 3beta-HSD deficiency.

Placental and cord blood brain derived neurotrophic factor levels are decreased in nondiabetic macrosomia.

PubMed

Cai, Qian-Ying; Zhang, Heng-Xin; Wang, Chen-Chen; Sun, Hao; Sun, Shu-Qiang; Wang, Yu-Huan; Yan, Hong-Tao; Yang, Xin-Jun

2017-08-01

To measure levels of placental brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene expression and umbilical cord blood BDNF in neonates with nondiabetic macrosomia and determine associations between these levels and macrosomia. This case-control study included 58 nondiabetic macrosomic and 59 normal birth weight mother-infant pairs. Data were collected from interviews and our hospital's database. BDNF gene expression was quantified in placental tissues using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (n = 117). Umbilical cord blood BDNF levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (n = 90). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between BDNF levels and macrosomia. Placental BDNF gene expression (P = 0.026) and cord blood BDNF (P = 0.008) were lower in neonates with nondiabetic macrosomia than in normal birth weight controls. Cord blood BDNF was significantly lower in vaginally delivered macrosomic neonates than vaginally delivered controls (P = 0.014), but cord BDNF did not differ between vaginal and cesarean section delivery modes in macrosomic neonates. Cord blood BDNF was positively associated with gestational age in control neonates (r = 0.496, P < 0.001), but not in macrosomic neonates. Cord blood BDNF was positively associated with placental BDNF relative expression (r s  = 0.245, P = 0.02) in the total group. Higher cord blood BDNF levels were independently associated with protection against nondiabetic macrosomia (adjusted odds ratio 0.992; 95% confidence interval 0.986-0.998). Both placental BDNF gene expression and cord blood BDNF were downregulated in neonates with nondiabetic macrosomia compared with normal birth weight neonates. Cord BDNF may partly derive from BDNF secreted by the placenta. Higher cord plasma BDNF levels protected against nondiabetic macrosomia.

Attenuation of Diabetic Conditions by Sida rhombifolia in Moderately Diabetic Rats and Inability to Produce Similar Effects in Severely Diabetic in Rats.

PubMed

Chaturvedi, Padmaja; Kwape, Tebogo Elvis

2015-12-01

This study was done out to evaluate the effects of Sida rhombifolia methanol extract (SRM) on diabetes in moderately diabetic (MD) and severely diabetic (SD) Sprague-Dawley rats. SRM was prepared by soaking the powdered plant material in 70% methanol and rota evaporating the methanol from the extract. Effective hypoglycemic doses were established by performing oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) in normal rats. Hourly effects of SRM on glucose were observed in the MD and the SD rats. Rats were grouped, five rats to a group, into normal control 1 (NC1), MD control 1 (MDC1), MD experimental 1 (MDE1), SD control 1 (SDC1), and SD experimental 1 (SDE1) groups. All rats in the control groups were administered 1 mL of distilled water (DW). The rats in the MDE1 and the SDE1 groups were administered SRM orally at 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight (BW), respectively, dissolved in 1 mL of DW. Blood was collected initially and at intervals of 1 hour for 6 hours to measure blood glucose. A similar experimental design was followed for the 30-day long-term trial. Finally, rats were sacrificed, and blood was collected to measure blood glucose, lipid profiles, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH). OGTTs indicated that two doses (200 and 300 mg/kg BW) were effective hypoglycemic doses in normal rats. Both doses reduced glucose levels after 1 hour in the MDE1 and the SDE1 groups. A long-term trial of SRM in the MD group showed a reduced glucose level, a normal lipid profile, and normal GSH and TBARS levels. In SD rats, SRM had no statistically significant effects on these parameters. Normal weight was achieved in the MD rats, but the SD rats showed reduced BW. The study demonstrates that SRM has potential to alleviate the conditions of moderate diabetic, but not severe diabetes.

[Intelligence level and structure in school age children with fetal growth restriction].

PubMed

Ma, Jian; Ma, Hong-Wei; Tian, Xiao-Bo; Liu, Fang

2009-10-01

To study the intelligence level and structure in school age children with fetal growth restriction (FGR). The intelligence levels were tested by the Wechsler Children Scales of Intelligence (C-WISC) in 54 children with FGR and in 84 normal children. The full intelligence quotient (FIQ), verbal IQ (VIQ) and performance IQ (PIQ) in the FGR group were 105.9+/-10.3, 112.4+/-11.2 and 97.1+/-10.6 respectively, and they all were in a normal range. But the PIQ was significantly lower than that in the control group (104.8+/-10.5; p<0.001), and the picture arrangement and the decipher subtest scores were significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.01). The scores of perception/organization and memory/attention factors in the FGR group were 99.8+/-11.1 and 116.3+/-14.4, respectively, which were inferior to those in the control group (104.6+/-11.5 and 113.4+/-14.5 respectively; p<0.05). The total intelligence level of children with FGR is normal, but there are imbalances in the intelligence structure and dysfunctions in performance ability related to right cerebral hemisphere. Performance trainings should be done from the infancy in children with FGR.

High Prolactin Excretion in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Impaired Renal Function.

PubMed

Triebel, Jakob; Moreno-Vega, Aura Ileana; Vázquez-Membrillo, Miguel; Nava, Gabriel; García-Franco, Renata; López-Star, Ellery; Baldivieso-Hurtado, Olivia; Ochoa, Daniel; Macotela, Yazmín; Bertsch, Thomas; Martinez de la Escalera, Gonzalo; Clapp, Carmen

2015-01-01

The metabolic clearance of prolactin (PRL) is partially executed by the kidney. Here, we investigate the urine excretion of PRL in patients with Diabetes Mellitus and renal impairment. Serum and urine samples were collected from male, mestizo patients in central Mexico employing a cross-sectional study design. Ninety-eight individuals had either no diabetes and normal renal function (control), diabetes and normal renal function, or diabetes with impaired renal function. PRL was determined by a chemiluminescent immunometric assay; protein, albumin, and creatinine were evaluated using quantitative colorimetric assays. The results were analyzed using ANOVA-testing. Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and renal impairment had significantly higher urine PRL levels than patients with Diabetes Mellitus and normal renal function and control patients. Higher urine PRL levels were associated with lower glomerular filtration rates, higher serum creatinine, and higher urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratios (UACR). Urine PRL levels correlated positively with UACR. Serum PRL levels were similar among groups. Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and impaired renal function demonstrate a high urinary PRL excretion. Urinary PRL excretion in the context of proteinuria could contribute to PRL dysregulation in renal impairment.

Colon Cancer Associated Transcript-1 (CCAT1) Expression in Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach.

PubMed

Mizrahi, Ido; Mazeh, Haggi; Grinbaum, Ronit; Beglaibter, Nahum; Wilschanski, Michael; Pavlov, Vera; Adileh, Muchamad; Stojadinovic, Alexander; Avital, Itzhak; Gure, Ali Osmay; Halle, David; Nissan, Aviram

2015-01-01

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to have functional roles in cancer biology and are dys-regulated in many tumors. Colon Cancer Associated Transcript -1 (CCAT1) is a lncRNA, previously shown to be significantly up-regulated in colon cancer. The aim of this study is to determine expression levels of CCAT1 in gastric carcinoma (GC). Tissue samples were obtained from patients undergoing resection for gastric carcinoma (n=19). For each patient, tumor tissue and normal appearing gastric mucosa were taken. Normal gastric tissues obtained from morbidly obese patients, undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy served as normal controls (n=19). A human gastric carcinoma cell line (AGS) served as positive control. RNA was extracted from all tissue samples and CCAT1 expression was analyzed using quantitative real time-PCR (qRT-PCR). Low expression of CCAT1 was identified in normal gastric mucosa samples obtained from morbidly obese patients [mean Relative Quantity (RQ) = 1.95±0.4]. AGS human gastric carcinoma cell line showed an elevated level of CCAT1 expression (RQ=8.02). Expression levels of CCAT1 were approximately 10.8 fold higher in GC samples than in samples taken from the negative control group (RQ=21.1±5 vs. RQ=1.95±0.4, respectively, p<0.001). Interestingly, CCAT1 expression was significantly overexpressed in adjacent normal tissues when compared to the negative control group (RQ = 15.25±2 vs. RQ=1.95±0.4, respectively, p<0.001). Tissues obtained from recurrent GC cases showed the highest expression levels (RQ = 88.8±31; p<0.001). Expression levels increased with tumor stage (T4- 36.4±15, T3- 16.1±6, T2- 4.7±1), however this did not reach statistical significance (p=0.2). There was no difference in CCAT1 expression between intestinal and diffuse type GC (RQ=22.4±7 vs. 22.4±16, respectively, p=0.9). Within the normal gastric tissue samples, no significant difference in CCAT1 expression was observed in helicobacter pylori negative and positive patients (RQ= 2.4±0.9 vs. 0.93±0.2, respectively, p=0.13). CCAT1 is up-regulated in gastric cancer, and may serve as a potential bio-marker for early detection and surveillance.

Deaf individuals who work with computers present a high level of visual attention

PubMed Central

Ribeiro, Paula Vieira; Ribas, Valdenilson Ribeiro; Ribas, Renata de Melo Guerra; de Melo, Teresinha de Jesus Oliveira Guimarães; Marinho, Carlos Antonio de Sá; Silva, Kátia Karina do Monte; de Albuquerque, Elizabete Elias; Ribas, Valéria Ribeiro; de Lima, Renata Mirelly Silva; Santos, Tuthcha Sandrelle Botelho Tavares

2011-01-01

Some studies in the literature indicate that deaf individuals seem to develop a higher level of attention and concentration during the process of constructing of different ways of communicating. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of attention in individuals deaf from birth that worked with computers. Methods A total of 161 individuals in the 18-25 age group were assessed. Of these, 40 were congenitally deaf individuals that worked with computers, 42 were deaf individuals that did not work, did not know how to use nor used computers (Control 1), 39 individuals with normal hearing that did not work, did not know how to use computers nor used them (Control 2), and 40 individuals with normal hearing that worked with computers (Control 3). Results The group of subjects deaf from birth that worked with computers (IDWC) presented a higher level of focused attention, sustained attention, mental manipulation capacity and resistance to interference compared to the control groups. Conclusion This study highlights the relevance sensory to cognitive processing. PMID:29213734

Relationship between serum interleukin-17 level and inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Liu, Q L; Huang, L; Zhao, Q J; Li, Q; He, Z

2016-01-01

By detecting expression of interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-10 and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in serum of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, this study aims to analyze the effects of these factors on the pathogenesis of IBD. According to illness status, selected patients were divided into Crohn’s disease (CD) group (28 patients), ulcerative colitis (UC) group (74 patients) and normal control group (36 patients); enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IL-17A, IL-10 and IFN-γ levels in serum; immunohistochemical assay was used to detect local IL-17A expression in the colonic mucosa of each group. Clinical results showed that IL-17A content of the UC group and CD group was significantly higher than that of the normal control group (p less than 0.05); IL-17A content of the CD group was higher than that of the UC group (p>0.05). The UC group had the highest IL-10 content, and the difference between the UC group and other two groups had statistical significance (p less than 0.05); the difference of IL-10 content between UC group and normal control group had no statistical significance (p>0.05). There was no significant difference of IFN-γ level between the CD group and the UC group and normal control group (p>0.05), and no significant difference of IFN-γ level was shown between the CD group and the UC group (p>0.05). Both the CD and UC groups showed IL-17A positive staining in cytoplasm of lymphocyte, however no positive staining was found in any layer of intestinal mucosa of the normal control group. IL-17A was locally expressed in the colon of IBD patients in remission; furthermore, it also had high expression in serum; thus, there still existed high expression of pro-inflammatory factor, which might be related to relapse of IBD. Therefore, prevention of IL-17A may become a feasible therapy for IBD in the future.

Expression and clinicopathological significance of microRNA-21 and programmed cell death 4 in malignant melanoma.

PubMed

Jiao, Jian; Fan, Yu; Zhang, Yan

2015-10-01

To measure levels of microRNA (miR)-21 and its target gene, programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), in samples of human cutaneous malignant melanoma and normal non-malignant control skin. Relative levels of miR-21 and PDCD4 mRNA were measured using a quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Correlations between the levels of the two molecules and the clinicopathological characteristics of malignant melanoma were analysed. A total of 67 cases of human cutaneous malignant melanoma were analysed and compared with 67 samples of normal nonmalignant control skin. Compared with normal skin samples, the relative level of miR-21 was significantly higher and the relative level of PDCD4 mRNA was significantly lower in the melanoma specimens. A significant negative correlation between PDCD4 mRNA and miR-21 was demonstrated in malignant melanoma (r = -0.602). Elevated miR-21 and reduced PDCD4 mRNA levels were both significantly correlated with increased tumour size, a higher Clark classification level and the presence of lymph node metastases in malignant melanoma. These findings suggest that miR-21 and PDCD4 might be potential biomarkers for malignant melanoma and might provide treatment targets in the future. © The Author(s) 2015.

Increased plasma peroxides as a marker of oxidative stress in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).

PubMed

Maes, Michael; Kubera, Marta; Uytterhoeven, Marc; Vrydags, Nicolas; Bosmans, Eugene

2011-04-01

There is evidence that myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is characterized by activation of immune, inflammatory, oxidative and nitrosative stress (IO&NS) pathways. The present study was carried out in order to examine whether ME/CFS is accompanied by increased levels of plasma peroxides and serum oxidized LDL (oxLDL) antibodies, two biomarkers of oxidative stress. Blood was collected from 56 patients with ME/CFS and 37 normal volunteers. Severity of ME/CFS was measured using the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (FF) Rating Scale. Plasma peroxide concentrations were significantly higher in patients with ME/CFS than in normal controls. There was a trend towards significantly higher serum oxLDL antibodies in ME/CFS than in controls. Both biomarkers contributed significantly in discriminating between patients with ME/CFS and normal controls. Plasma peroxide and serum oxLDL antibody levels were both significantly related to one of the FF symptoms. The results show that ME/CFS is characterized by increased oxidative stress.

Diabetic Children Need Care but Can Lead Normal Lives.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

PTA Today, 1984

1984-01-01

Children with diabetes can take part in normal school activities as long as they maintain control over their blood sugar level through a technique called self blood-glucose monitoring. Parents can work with teachers to see that dietary and medicinal needs are accommodated. (PP)

Reduction of transforming growth factor-β1 expression in leukemia and its possible role in leukemia development.

PubMed

Wu, Yong; Chen, Ping; Huang, Hui-Fang; Huang, Mei-Juan; Chen, Yuan-Zhong

2012-01-01

The expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in leukemic cells and sera from patients with leukemia and its possible role in leukemia development were studied. TGF-β1 levels in culture supernatants from leukemic cells were significantly lower than those from normal bone marrow mononuclear cells. Serum TGF-β1 levels in leukemic patients were significantly lower compared with healthy controls, but returned to normal in patients achieving complete remission, and decreased when patients relapsed. TGF-β1 mRNA expression levels were significantly higher in normal bone marrow mononuclear cells but lower in leukemic cells compared with normal CD34 + cells. After transfection of the TGF-β1 gene to HL-60 cells, cell apoptosis was detected. Moreover, by flow cytometry analysis, cells arrested in G1 phase were 62% for TGF-β1 transfected cells and 44% for controls. Transfection of exogenous TGF-β1 gene inhibited HL60 cells xenograft growth in nude mice, and prolonged survival of tumor-bearing mice compared with the controls. Decreased endogenous TGF-β1 expression in leukemia cells may be involved in leukemia development, Transfection of exogenous TGF-B1 gene to HL60 can inhibit the proliferation of the cells and induce cell apoptosis by down regulating bcl-2, hTERT (human telomerase reverse transcriptase) and c-myc expression.

Learning with sublexical information from emerging reading vocabularies in exceptionally early and normal reading development.

PubMed

Thompson, G Brian; Fletcher-Flinn, Claire M; Wilson, Kathryn J; McKay, Michael F; Margrain, Valerie G

2015-03-01

Predictions from theories of the processes of word reading acquisition have rarely been tested against evidence from exceptionally early readers. The theories of Ehri, Share, and Byrne, and an alternative, Knowledge Sources theory, were so tested. The former three theories postulate that full development of context-free letter sounds and awareness of phonemes are required for normal acquisition, while the claim of the alternative is that with or without such, children can use sublexical information from their emerging reading vocabularies to acquire word reading. Results from two independent samples of children aged 3-5, and 5 years, with mean word reading levels of 7 and 9 years respectively, showed underdevelopment of their context-free letter sounds and phoneme awareness, relative to their word reading levels and normal comparison samples. Despite such underdevelopment, these exceptional readers engaged in a form of phonological recoding that enabled pseudoword reading, at the level of older-age normal controls matched on word reading level. Moreover, in the 5-year-old sample further experiments showed that, relative to normal controls, they had a bias toward use of sublexical information from their reading vocabularies for phonological recoding of heterophonic pseudowords with irregular consistent spelling, and were superior in accessing word meanings independently of phonology, although only if the readers were without exposure to explicit phonics. The three theories were less satisfactory than the alternative theory in accounting for the learning of the exceptionally early readers. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Internal associations and dynamic expression of c-kit and nanog genes in ventricular remodelling induced by adriamycin.

PubMed

Liu, Zhen; Li, Shuo; Liu, Lingling; Guo, Zhikun; Wang, Pengfei

2016-09-01

The present study aimed to investigate the dynamic expression of the c-kit and nanog genes in rats with left ventricular remodelling induced by adriamycin (ADR), and explore its internal association and mechanism of action. Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into a normal control group and a heart failure model group. Heart failure was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of ADR (4 mg/kg) weekly for six weeks. The normal control group was given the same amount of saline. At the eighth week, rat cardiac function was examined to demonstrate the formation of heart failure. The rat hearts were harvested frozen and sectioned, and the expression levels of the nanog and c-kit genes in the myocardial tissue samples were detected using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Hematoxylin and eosin staining demonstrated various pathological changes in the myocardial cells in the heart failure model group, whereas myocardial infarction was not observed in the normal control group. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence demonstrated that nanog-positive cells were predominantly expressed in the vascular endothelium, with a few myocardial cells and stem cells in normal myocardium. The expression levels of c-kit and nanog in the myocardium of the rats with heart failure decreased significantly. c-kit-positive cells clustered together in the epicardium and its vicinity, and c-kit expression significantly decreased in the myocardium of rats with heart failure, as compared with normal rats. In both groups, some cells co-expressed both the c-kit and nanog genes. The RT-PCR results demonstrated that the expression levels of the two genes in the heart failure model group were significantly lower compared with those in the normal control group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the c-kit- and nanog-positive stem cells decreased in the myocardium of the rats with left ventricular remodelling induced by ADR. Their abnormal expression was significantly correlated with left ventricular remodelling, thereby indicating an internal association (influences of two indexes in the experimental group and control group) between them.

Serum trace metal levels in Alzheimer's disease and normal control groups.

PubMed

Park, Jun-Hyun; Lee, Dong-Woo; Park, Kyung Su; Joung, Hyojee

2014-02-01

To determine whether serum trace metals are related to abnormal cognition in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We studied serum lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic(As) in 89 patients with AD and in 118 cognitively normal individuals. We analyzed the results of the blood tests and the food intake. Serum Pb levels correlated with word list recall (P = .039) and word list recognition (P = .037). Without age adjustment, serum Cd levels (P = .044) were significantly higher in the AD group. After stratified age adjustment, the levels of selected trace metals did not differ significantly between AD and normal individuals. Food intakes regarding selected trace metals were not significantly different between the 2 groups. In this study, serum Pb, Cd, Hg, and As levels were not directly related to abnormal cognition in AD. Serum Pb levels were significantly negatively correlated with verbal memory scores.

Effects of lifestyle intervention on dietary intake, physical activity level, and gestational weight gain in pregnant women with different pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index in a randomized control trial.

PubMed

Hui, Amy Leung; Back, Lisa; Ludwig, Sora; Gardiner, Phillip; Sevenhuysen, Gustaaf; Dean, Heather J; Sellers, Elisabeth; McGavock, Jonathan; Morris, Margaret; Jiang, Depeng; Shen, Garry X

2014-09-24

The objectives of this study were to assess the efficacy of lifestyle intervention on gestational weight gain in pregnant women with normal and above normal body mass index (BMI) in a randomized controlled trial. A total of 116 pregnant women (<20 weeks of pregnancy) without diabetes were enrolled and 113 pregnant women completed the program. Participants were randomized into intervention and control groups. Women in the intervention group received weekly trainer-led group exercise sessions, instructed home exercise for 3-5-times/week during 20-36 weeks of gestation, and dietary counseling twice during pregnancy. Participants in the control group did not receive the intervention. All participants completed a physical activity questionnaire and a 3-day food record at enrolment and 2 months after enrolment. The participants in the intervention group with normal pre-pregnancy BMI (≤24.9 kg/M2, n = 30) had lower gestational weight gain (GWG), offspring birth weight and excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) on pregnancy weight gain compared to the control group (n = 27, p < 0.05). Those weight related-changes were not detected between the intervention (n = 27) and control group (n = 29) in the above normal pre-pregnancy BMI participants. Intervention reduced total calorie, total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol intake were detected in women with normal or above normal pre-pregnancy BMI compared to the control group (p < 0.05 or 0.01). Increased physical activity and reduced carbohydrate intake were detected in women with normal (p < 0.05), but not above normal, pre-pregnancy BMI at 2 months after the onset of the intervention compared to the control group. The results of the present study demonstrated that the lifestyle intervention program decreased EGWG, GWG, offspring birth weight in pregnant women with normal, but not above normal, pre-pregnancy BMI, which was associated with increased physical activity and decreased carbohydrate intake. NCT00486629.

Alpha-mangostin attenuates diabetic nephropathy in association with suppression of acid sphingomyelianse and endoplasmic reticulum stress.

PubMed

Liu, Tingting; Duan, Wang; Nizigiyimana, Paul; Gao, Lin; Liao, Zhouning; Xu, Boya; Liu, Lerong; Lei, Minxiang

2018-02-05

Diabetic nephropathy is a common complication of diabetes, but there are currently few treatment options. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the effect of alpha-mangostin on diabetic nephropathy and possible related mechanisms. Goto-Kakizaki rats were used as a diabetic model and received alpha-mangostin or desipramine treatment with normal saline as a control. Ten age-matched Sprague Dawley rats were used as normal controls and treated with normal saline. At week 12, blood glucose, albuminuria, apoptosis and renal pathologic changes were assessed. Protein levels for acid sphingomyelinase, glucose-regulated protein 78, phosphorylated PKR-like ER-resident kinase, activated transcription factor 4, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein, homologous protein), and cleaved-caspase12 were measured. The level of acid sphingomyelinase was significantly increased, and ER stress was activated in diabetic rat kidneys when compared to the control animals. When acid sphingomyelinase was inhibited by alpha-mangostin, the expression of ER stress-related proteins was down-regulated in association with decreased levels of diabetic kidney injury. Alpha-mangostin, an acid sphingomyelinase inhibitor plays a protective role in diabetic neuropathy by relieving ER stress induced-renal cell apoptosis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential hippocampal protein expression between normal aged rats and aged rats with postoperative cognitive dysfunction: A proteomic analysis.

PubMed

Li, Yang; Wang, Saiying; Ran, Ke; Hu, Zhonghua; Liu, Zhaoqian; Duan, Kaiming

2015-08-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the differences in the expression of hippocampal proteins between normal control aged rats and aged rats with postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). A total of 24 aged rats were randomly divided into a surgery group (n=12) and a control group (n=12). The rats in the surgery group were treated with 2 h isoflurane anesthesia and splenectomy, while the rats in the control group received 40% oxygen for 2 h without surgery. The cognitive functions of the two groups were examined using a Y-maze test. The protein expression profiles of the hippocampus of six aged rats (three rats with POCD and three from the normal control group) were assessed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. A total of three differential proteins were further confirmed between the POCD rats and normal rats using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The expression levels of 21 proteins in the rats with POCD were significantly different compared with the normal control rats. These proteins were functionally clustered to synaptic plasticity (three proteins), oxidative stress (four proteins), energy production (six proteins), neuroinflammation (three proteins) and glutamate metabolism (two proteins). In addition, three proteins (fatty acid binding protein 7, brain, glutamate dehydrogenase 1 and glutamine synthetase), associated with astrocytic function, were significantly different in the rats with POCD compared with those in the normal control (P<0.05). Similar changes in the mRNA expression levels of the three proteins in the hippocampi of POCD rats were also detected using RT-qPCR. Neuroinflammation, glutamate toxicity and oxidative stress were possibly involved in the pathological mechanism underlying POCD in aged rats. In addition, astrocytes may also be important in POCD in aged rats.

[Effect of flavonoids of ginkgo biloba on anti-oxidizing system of mice after acute alcohol administration].

PubMed

Yao, Ping; Liu, Lie-Gang; Jia, Wen-Bo; Song, Fang-Fang; Zhou, Shaoliang; Zhang, Xiping; Sun, Xiufa

2005-05-01

To investigate the protective effects of flavonoids of ginkgo biloba on anti-oxidizing system damaged by acute alcohol administration. Adult male Kunming mice were employed and divided into randomly flavonoid intervention group, normal control and ethanol control group according to body weight. After pretreated with flavonoids of ginkgo biloba (96mg/kg bw), the mice in flavonoid intervention group ingested alcohol (ethanol 4.8g/kg bw) via i.g. and were decapitated after 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 15 h of ethanol administration. The same treatment was carried out on ethanol control group except that physiological saline was applied instead of flavonoid of ginkgo biloba. Meanwhile, the normal control group was established. The concentration of glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the serum and liver were determined. The experiment displays that the content of GSH and the activities of GSH-Px and SOD decreased rapidly after 1 h of treatment with alcohol and dropped to the lowest level at 4h of treatment. After 6h of treatment, these indexes came to the normal level rapidly. The level of MDA of serum and liver increased rapidly after 1 h of treatment and reached the climax at 4h and 6h respectively. It went back to the normal concentration until 15h and 9 h respectively. On a whole, there were similar curves between flavonoids intervention group and alcohol control group on the indexes. However, to some extent, the supplement of flavonoid of ginkgo biloba can prohibit the rise of MDA level and the decline of GSH-Px, SOD, GSH which were induced by acute alcohol intakes. Flavonoid of ginkgo biloba have some protective effects on the damage of anti-oxidizing system of mice induced by acute alcohol adminstration.

Quality of Golden papaya stored under controlled atmosphere conditions.

PubMed

Martins, Derliane Ribeiro; de Resende, Eder Dutra

2013-10-01

This work evaluated physicochemical parameters of Golden papaya stored under refrigeration in controlled atmospheres. The fruits were kept at 13  in chambers containing either 3 or 6% O2 combined with 6%, 10% or 15% CO2. Moreover, a normal atmosphere was produced with 20.8% O2 and 0.03% CO2 with ethylene scrubbing, and a control treatment was used with ambient conditions. Evaluations were performed at the following times: before storage, after 30 days of storage in controlled atmosphere, and after removal from controlled atmosphere and storage for 7 days in the cold room. At the lower O2 levels and higher CO2 levels, the ripening rate was decreased. The drop in pulp acidity was avoided after 30 days of storage at 3% O2, but the fruits reached normal acidity after removal from controlled atmosphere and storage for 7 days in the cold room. The reducing sugars remained at a higher concentration after 30 days under 3% O2 and 15% CO2 even 7 days after removal from controlled atmosphere and storage in the cold room. This atmosphere also preserved the content of ascorbic acid at a higher level.

Everolimus induces rapid plasma glucose normalization in insulinoma patients by effects on tumor as well as normal tissues.

PubMed

Fiebrich, Helle-Brit; Siemerink, Ester J M; Brouwers, Adrienne H; Links, Thera P; Remkes, Wouter S; Hospers, Geke A P; de Vries, Elisabeth G E

2011-01-01

Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus administered to four insulinoma patients rapidly controlled hypoglycemia (Kulke et al., N Engl J Med 2009;360:195-197). We wanted to identify the kinetics of everolimus effects on controlling hypoglycemia and understand underlying mechanisms. Three consecutive patients with a metastasized symptomatic insulinoma were started on 100 μg of octreotide subcutaneously three times daily. Because of persisting hypoglycemias, treatment with daily 10 mg of oral everolimus was initiated. Serial plasma glucose levels and serum insulin levels were measured. Computer tomography (CT) scans were performed before and after 2 and 5 months of treatment. [¹⁸F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET) scans, to visualize glucose metabolism, were made before and after 2 weeks, 5 weeks, and 5 months of treatment. The ¹⁸F-FDG uptake was quantified as the maximum standardized uptake value. All patients achieved control of hypoglycemia on everolimus within 14 days. Insulin levels were 2.5- to 6.3-fold elevated before start of treatment and declined 14%-64% after 4 weeks of treatment. CT scans showed stable disease at 2 months in all patients, with progressive disease after 5 months in one. Before treatment, both the tumor lesions and the muscles and myocardium showed high ¹⁸F-FDG uptake. Everolimus reduced tumor and muscle ¹⁸F-FDG uptake after 2 weeks by 26% ± 14% and 19% ± 41%, and after 5 months by 31% ± 13% and 27% ± 41%. Everolimus normalizes plasma glucose levels in metastatic insulinoma within 14 days, coinciding with a lower glucose uptake in tumor and muscles and declining (pro)insulin levels. This effect on tumor as well as normal tissues explains the rapid controlling of hypoglycemia.

Sertoli cell androgen receptor expression regulates temporal fetal and adult Leydig cell differentiation, function, and population size.

PubMed

Hazra, Rasmani; Jimenez, Mark; Desai, Reena; Handelsman, David J; Allan, Charles M

2013-09-01

We recently created a mouse model displaying precocious Sertoli cell (SC) and spermatogenic development induced by SC-specific transgenic androgen receptor expression (TgSCAR). Here we reveal that TgSCAR regulates the development, function, and absolute number of Leydig cells (LCs). Total fetal and adult type LC numbers were reduced in postnatal and adult TgSCAR vs control testes, despite normal circulating LH levels. Normal LC to SC ratios found in TgSCAR testes indicate that SC androgen receptor (SCAR)-mediated activity confers a quorum-dependent relationship between total SC and LC numbers. TgSCAR enhanced LC differentiation, shown by elevated ratios of advanced to immature LC types, and reduced LC proliferation in postnatal TgSCAR vs control testes. Postnatal TgSCAR testes displayed up-regulated expression of coupled ligand-receptor transcripts (Amh-Amhr2, Dhh-Ptch1, Pdgfa-Pdgfra) for potential SCAR-stimulated paracrine pathways, which may coordinate LC differentiation. Neonatal TgSCAR testes displayed normal T and dihydrotestosterone levels despite differential changes to steroidogenic gene expression, with down-regulated Star, Cyp11a1, and Cyp17a1 expression contrasting with up-regulated Hsd3b1, Hsd17b3, and Srd5a1 expression. TgSCAR males also displayed elevated postnatal and normal adult serum testosterone levels, despite reduced LC numbers. Enhanced adult-type LC steroidogenic output was revealed by increased pubertal testicular T, dihydrotestosterone, 3α-diol and 3β-diol levels per LC and up-regulated steroidogenic gene (Nr5a1, Lhr, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd3b6, Srd5a1) expression in pubertal or adult TgSCAR vs control males, suggesting regulatory mechanisms maintain androgen levels independently of absolute LC numbers. Our unique gain-of-function TgSCAR model has revealed that SCAR activity controls temporal LC differentiation, steroidogenic function, and population size.

Electromagnetically induced transparency in the case of elliptic polarization of interacting fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parshkov, Oleg M.

2018-04-01

The theoretical investigation results of disintegration effect of elliptic polarized shot probe pulses of electromagnetically induced transparency in the counterintuitive superposed elliptic polarized control field and in weak probe field approximation are presented. It is shown that this disintegration occurs because the probe field in the medium is the sum of two normal modes, which correspond to elliptic polarized pulses with different speeds of propagation. The polarization ellipses of normal modes have equal eccentricities and mutually perpendicular major axes. Major axis of polarization ellipse of one normal mode is parallel to polarization ellipse major axis of control field, and electric vector of this mode rotates in the opposite direction, than electric vector of the control field. The electric vector other normal mode rotates in the same direction that the control field electric vector. The normal mode speed of the first type aforementioned is less than that of the second type. The polarization characteristics of the normal mode depend uniquely on the polarization characteristics of elliptic polarized control field and remain changeless in the propagation process. The theoretical investigation is performed for Λ-scheme of degenerated quantum transitions between 3P0, 3P10 and 3P2 energy levels of 208Pb isotope.

10 CFR 835.1102 - Control of areas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OCCUPATIONAL RADIATION PROTECTION Radioactive Contamination Control § 835.1102 Control... transfer of removable contamination to locations outside of radiological areas under normal operating conditions. (b) Any area in which contamination levels exceed the values specified in appendix D of this part...

Association of cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 with A2M gene in cognitively normal subjects

PubMed Central

Millard, Steven P.; Lutz, Franziska; Li, Ge; Galasko, Douglas R.; Farlow, Martin R.; Quinn, Joseph F.; Kaye, Jeffrey A.; Leverenz, James B.; Tsuang, Debby; Yu, Chang-En; Peskind, Elaine R.; Bekris, Lynn M.

2013-01-01

Low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ42 levels correlate with increased brain Aβ deposition in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which suggests a disruption in the degradation and clearance of Aβ from the brain. In addition, APOE ε4 carriers have lower CSF Aβ42 levels than non-carriers. The hypothesis of this investigation was that CSF Aβ42 levels correlate with regulatory region variation in genes that are biologically associated with degradation or clearance of Aβ from the brain. CSF Aβ42 levels were tested for associations with Aβ degradation and clearance genes and APOE ε4. Twenty-four SNPs located within the 5′ and 3′ regions of 12 genes were analyzed. The study sample consisted of 99 AD patients and 168 cognitively normal control subjects. CSF Aβ42 levels were associated with APOE ε4 status in controls but not in AD patients; A2M regulatory region SNPs were also associated with CSF Aβ42 levels in controls, but not in AD patients, even after adjusting for APOE ε4. These results suggest that genetic variation within the A2M gene influences CSF Aβ42 levels. PMID:24011543

Is Serum Zinc Level Associated with Prediabetes and Diabetes?: A Cross-Sectional Study from Bangladesh

PubMed Central

Islam, Md. Rafiqul; Arslan, Iqbal; Attia, John; McEvoy, Mark; McElduff, Patrick; Basher, Ariful; Rahman, Waliur; Peel, Roseanne; Akhter, Ayesha; Akter, Shahnaz; Vashum, Khanrin P.; Milton, Abul Hasnat

2013-01-01

Aims To determine serum zinc level and other relevant biological markers in normal, prediabetic and diabetic individuals and their association with Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) parameters. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and December 2009. Any patient aged ≥30 years attending the medicine outpatient department of a medical university hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh and who had a blood glucose level ordered by a physician was eligible to participate. Results A total of 280 participants were analysed. On fasting blood sugar results, 51% were normal, 13% had prediabetes and 36% had diabetes. Mean serum zinc level was lowest in prediabetic compared to normal and diabetic participants (mean differences were approximately 65 ppb/L and 33 ppb/L, respectively). In multiple linear regression, serum zinc level was found to be significantly lower in prediabetes than in those with normoglycemia. Beta cell function was significantly lower in prediabetes than normal participants. Adjusted linear regression for HOMA parameters did not show a statistically significant association between serum zinc level, beta cell function (P = 0.07) and insulin resistance (P = 0.08). Low serum zinc accentuated the increase in insulin resistance seen with increasing BMI. Conclusion Participants with prediabetes have lower zinc levels than controls and zinc is significantly associated with beta cell function and insulin resistance. Further longitudinal population based studies are warranted and controlled trials would be valuable for establishing whether zinc supplementation in prediabetes could be a useful strategy in preventing progression to Type 2 diabetes. PMID:23613929

Distinct expression patterns of the E3 ligase SIAH-1 and its partner Kid/KIF22 in normal tissues and in the breast tumoral processes.

PubMed

Bruzzoni-Giovanelli, Heriberto; Fernandez, Plinio; Veiga, Lucía; Podgorniak, Marie-Pierre; Powell, Darren J; Candeias, Marco M; Mourah, Samia; Calvo, Fabien; Marín, Mónica

2010-02-09

SIAH proteins are the human members of an highly conserved family of E3 ubiquitin ligases. Several data suggest that SIAH proteins may have a role in tumor suppression and apoptosis. Previously, we reported that SIAH-1 induces the degradation of Kid (KIF22), a chromokinesin protein implicated in the normal progression of mitosis and meiosis, by the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. In human breast cancer cells stably transfected with SIAH-1, Kid/KIF22 protein level was markedly reduced whereas, the Kid/KIF22 mRNA level was increased. This interaction has been further elucidated through analyzing SIAH and Kid/KIF22 expression in both paired normal and tumor tissues and cell lines. It was observed that SIAH-1 protein is widely expressed in different normal tissues, and in cells lines but showing some differences in western blotting profiles. Immunofluorescence microscopy shows that the intracellular distribution of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 appears to be modified in human tumor tissues compared to normal controls. When mRNA expression of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 was analyzed by real-time PCR in normal and cancer breast tissues from the same patient, a large variation in the number of mRNA copies was detected between the different samples. In most cases, SIAH-1 mRNA is decreased in tumor tissues compared to their normal counterparts. Interestingly, in all breast tumor tissues analyzed, variations in the Kid/KIF22 mRNA levels mirrored those seen with SIAH-1 mRNAs. This concerted variation of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 messengers suggests the existence of an additional level of control than the previously described protein-protein interaction and protein stability regulation. Our observations also underline the need to re-evaluate the results of gene expression obtained by qRT-PCR and relate it to the protein expression and cellular localization when matched normal and tumoral tissues are analyzed.

[Relationship between breast milk composition and weight growth velocity of infants fed with exclusive breast milk].

PubMed

Huang, Li-Li; Xiong, Fei; Yang, Fan

2016-10-01

To study the effect of breast milk composition on weight growth velocity of infants fed with exclusive breast milk. One hundred and thirty-eight full-term singleton infants who received regular follow-up visits and fed with exclusive breast milk and their mothers were recruited. Body height, weight and head circumference of these infants were measured at regular visits. Z scores were used to evaluate growth velocity. The subjects were classified into a failure to thrive group (ΔZ scores≤-0.67), a poor growth group (-0.67<ΔZ scores<0) and a normal control group (ΔZ scores≥0). The samples of mature breast milk were collected for composition analysis. The differences in the levels of the protein, fats, energy, carbohydrates and minerals in breast milk were compared among the three groups. ΔZ scores for weight in the failure to thrive and poor growth groups were lower than in the normal control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the levels of protein, fats and energy in breast milk among the failure to thrive, poor growth and normal control groups. However, the levels of carbohydrates and minerals in both the failure to thrive and poor growth groups were lower than in the normal control group (P<0.05). Weight growth velocity of infants can be affected by the composition of breast milk to a certain degree in a short period. In order to maintain a good weight growth velocity of infants, mothers should have a balanced diet to improve the quality of breast milk.

Investigation of electroacupuncture and manual acupuncture on carnitine and glutathione in muscle.

PubMed

Toda, Shizuo

2011-01-01

Electroacupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) have therapeutic effects on muscle fatigue in muscle disease. The deficiencies of carnitine and glutathione induce muscle fatigue. This report investigated the effects of EA and MA on carnitine and glutathione in muscle. After the mice of EA group were fixed in the animal cage, right Zusanli (ST36) and Jiexi (ST41) were acupunctured and stimulated with uniform reinforcing and reducing method by twirling the acupuncture needle for 15 min. And then, the needle handles were connected to an electric stimulator for stimulating the acupoint with dense-sparse waves. After the mice of MA group were fixed in an animal cage, right ST36 and ST41 were acupunctured and allowed for 15 min. The mice of normal control group were not acupunctured and stimulated for 15 min. The mice of all groups were killed for collecting muscle tissue 1 h after the final treatment. Carnitine and glutathione in homogenate of muscle tissue were determined with carnitine (Kainos Laboratories Co., Tokyo, Japan) and glutathione assay kit (Dojin Chemicals Co., Kumamoto, Japan). Carnitine level in muscle tissue of MA group was significantly higher than those of EA group and normal control group. Carnitine level in muscle tissue of EA group was not significantly different from that of normal control group. Glutathione levels in muscle tissue of EA group and MA group were significantly higher than that of normal control group. This report presented that carnitine in muscle is increased by MA, and not increased by EA, and that glutathione in muscle is increased by EA and MA.

Investigation of Electroacupuncture and Manual Acupuncture on Carnitine and Glutathione in Muscle

PubMed Central

Toda, Shizuo

2011-01-01

Electroacupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) have therapeutic effects on muscle fatigue in muscle disease. The deficiencies of carnitine and glutathione induce muscle fatigue. This report investigated the effects of EA and MA on carnitine and glutathione in muscle. After the mice of EA group were fixed in the animal cage, right Zusanli (ST36) and Jiexi (ST41) were acupunctured and stimulated with uniform reinforcing and reducing method by twirling the acupuncture needle for 15 min. And then, the needle handles were connected to an electric stimulator for stimulating the acupoint with dense-sparse waves. After the mice of MA group were fixed in an animal cage, right ST36 and ST41 were acupunctured and allowed for 15 min. The mice of normal control group were not acupunctured and stimulated for 15 min. The mice of all groups were killed for collecting muscle tissue 1 h after the final treatment. Carnitine and glutathione in homogenate of muscle tissue were determined with carnitine (Kainos Laboratories Co., Tokyo, Japan) and glutathione assay kit (Dojin Chemicals Co., Kumamoto, Japan). Carnitine level in muscle tissue of MA group was significantly higher than those of EA group and normal control group. Carnitine level in muscle tissue of EA group was not significantly different from that of normal control group. Glutathione levels in muscle tissue of EA group and MA group were significantly higher than that of normal control group. This report presented that carnitine in muscle is increased by MA, and not increased by EA, and that glutathione in muscle is increased by EA and MA. PMID:19592478

14 CFR 27.161 - Trim control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Trim control. 27.161 Section 27.161... STANDARDS: NORMAL CATEGORY ROTORCRAFT Flight Flight Characteristics § 27.161 Trim control. The trim control— (a) Must trim any steady longitudinal, lateral, and collective control forces to zero in level flight...

Long-acting peptidomimergic control of gigantism caused by pituitary acidophilic stem cell adenoma.

PubMed

Maheshwari, H G; Prezant, T R; Herman-Bonert, V; Shahinian, H; Kovacs, K; Melmed, S

2000-09-01

Gigantism is caused by GH hypersecretion occurring before epiphyseal long bone closure and usually is associated with pituitary adenoma. A 15-yr-old female patient presented with accelerated growth due to a large pituitary tumor that was surgically resected to relieve pressure effects. Second surgery to remove residual tumor tissue was followed by administration of octreotide LAR, a long-acting depot somatostatin analog, together with long-acting cabergoline. Height was over the 95th percentile, with evidence of a recent growth spurt. Serum GH levels were more than 60 ng/mL (normal, <10 ng/mL) with no suppression to 75 g oral glucose, and serum PRL (>8,000 ng/mL; normal, <23 ng/mL) and insulin-like growth factor I levels (845 ng/mL; age-matched normal, 242-660 ng/mL) were elevated. Histology, immunostaining, and electron microscopy demonstrated a pituitary acidophil stem cell adenoma. Tumor tissue expressed both somatostatin receptor type 2 and dopamine receptor type 2. The Gs alpha subunit, GHRH receptor, and MEN1 genes were intact, and tumor tissue abundantly expressed pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG). Serum GH and PRL levels were controlled after two surgeries, and with continued cabergoline and octreotide LAR GH, PRL, and insulin-like growth factor I levels were normalized. In conclusion, administration of long-acting somatostatin analog every 4 weeks in combination with a long-acting dopamine agonist biweekly controlled biochemical parameters and accelerated growth in a patient with gigantism caused by a rare pituitary acidophil stem cell adenoma.

Improvement of postoperative cognitive dysfunction and attention network function of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease via dexmedetomidine.

PubMed

Zhang, Jingchao; Wang, Guoliang; Zhang, Fangxiang; Zhao, Qian

2018-03-01

The protective effect of dexmedetomidine on cognitive dysfunction and decreased attention network function of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease after stenting was investigated. Fifty-eight patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease undergoing stenting in Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital were selected and randomly divided into control group (n=29) and dexmedetomidine group (n=29). The dexmedetomidine group was treated with dexmedetomidine before induced anesthesia, while the control group was given the same dose of normal saline; and the normal volunteers of the same age were selected as the normal group (n=29). At 3 days after operation, the levels of serum S100B and nerve growth factor (NGF) in each group were detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was detected via western blotting. Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) and attention network test (ANT) were performed. Moreover, the cognitive function and attention network function, and the effects of dexmedetomidine on cognitive function and attention network function were evaluated. The concentrations of serum S100B and NGF in dexmedetomidine group was lower than those in control group (P<0.01). The results of western blotting showed that the levels of serum BDNF in control group and dexmedetomidine group were significantly lower than that in normal group (P<0.01), and it was higher in dexmedetomidine group than that in control group (P<0.01). Besides, both MoCA and ANT results revealed that the visual space and executive function scores, attention scores, delayed memory scores, targeted network efficiency and executive control network efficiency in dexmedetomidine group were obviously higher than those in control group (P<0.01). The cognitive function and attention network function of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease have a certain degree of damage, and the preoperative administration of dexmedetomidine can effectively improve the patient's cognitive dysfunction and attention network function after operation.

Effects of age and amyloid deposition on Aβ dynamics in the human central nervous system.

PubMed

Huang, Yafei; Potter, Rachel; Sigurdson, Wendy; Santacruz, Anna; Shih, Shirley; Ju, Yo-El; Kasten, Tom; Morris, John C; Mintun, Mark; Duntley, Stephen; Bateman, Randall J

2012-01-01

The amyloid hypothesis predicts that increased production or decreased clearance of β-amyloid (Aβ) leads to amyloidosis, which ultimately culminates in Alzheimer disease (AD). To investigate whether dynamic changes in Aβ levels in the human central nervous system may be altered by aging or by the pathology of AD and thus contribute to the risk of AD. Repeated-measures case-control study. Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, Missouri. Participants with amyloid deposition, participants without amyloid deposition, and younger normal control participants. In this study, hourly cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ concentrations were compared with age, status of amyloid deposition, electroencephalography, and video recording data. Linear increases were observed over time in the Aβ levels in CSF samples obtained from the younger normal control participants and the older participants without amyloid deposition, but not from the older participants with amyloid deposition. Significant circadian patterns were observed in the Aβ levels in CSF samples obtained from the younger control participants; however, circadian amplitudes decreased in both older participants without amyloid deposition and older participants with amyloid deposition. Aβ diurnal concentrations were correlated with the amount of sleep but not with the various activities that the participants participated in while awake. A reduction in the linear increase in the Aβ levels in CSF samples that is associated with amyloid deposition and a decreased CSF Aβ diurnal pattern associated with increasing age disrupt the normal physiology of Aβ dynamics and may contribute to AD.

The effect of muscle contraction level on the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP): usefulness of amplitude normalization.

PubMed

Bogle, Jamie M; Zapala, David A; Criter, Robin; Burkard, Robert

2013-02-01

The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) is a reflexive change in sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle contraction activity thought to be mediated by a saccular vestibulo-collic reflex. CVEMP amplitude varies with the state of the afferent (vestibular) limb of the vestibulo-collic reflex pathway, as well as with the level of SCM muscle contraction. It follows that in order for cVEMP amplitude to reflect the status of the afferent portion of the reflex pathway, muscle contraction level must be controlled. Historically, this has been accomplished by volitionally controlling muscle contraction level either with the aid of a biofeedback method, or by an a posteriori method that normalizes cVEMP amplitude by the level of muscle contraction. A posteriori normalization methods make the implicit assumption that mathematical normalization precisely removes the influence of the efferent limb of the vestibulo-collic pathway. With the cVEMP, however, we are violating basic assumptions of signal averaging: specifically, the background noise and the response are not independent. The influence of this signal-averaging violation on our ability to normalize cVEMP amplitude using a posteriori methods is not well understood. The aims of this investigation were to describe the effect of muscle contraction, as measured by a prestimulus electromyogenic estimate, on cVEMP amplitude and interaural amplitude asymmetry ratio, and to evaluate the benefit of using a commonly advocated a posteriori normalization method on cVEMP amplitude and asymmetry ratio variability. Prospective, repeated-measures design using a convenience sample. Ten healthy adult participants between 25 and 61 yr of age. cVEMP responses to 500 Hz tone bursts (120 dB pSPL) for three conditions describing maximum, moderate, and minimal muscle contraction. Mean (standard deviation) cVEMP amplitude and asymmetry ratios were calculated for each muscle-contraction condition. Repeated measures analysis of variance and t-tests compared the variability in cVEMP amplitude between sides and conditions. Linear regression analyses compared asymmetry ratios. Polynomial regression analyses described the corrected and uncorrected cVEMP amplitude growth functions. While cVEMP amplitude increased with increased muscle contraction, the relationship was not linear or even proportionate. In the majority of cases, once muscle contraction reached a certain "threshold" level, cVEMP amplitude increased rapidly and then saturated. Normalizing cVEMP amplitudes did not remove the relationship between cVEMP amplitude and muscle contraction level. As muscle contraction increased, the normalized amplitude increased, and then decreased, corresponding with the observed amplitude saturation. Abnormal asymmetry ratios (based on values reported in the literature) were noted for four instances of uncorrected amplitude asymmetry at less than maximum muscle contraction levels. Amplitude normalization did not substantially change the number of observed asymmetry ratios. Because cVEMP amplitude did not typically grow proportionally with muscle contraction level, amplitude normalization did not lead to stable cVEMP amplitudes or asymmetry ratios across varying muscle contraction levels. Until we better understand the relationships between muscle contraction level, surface electromyography (EMG) estimates of muscle contraction level, and cVEMP amplitude, the application of normalization methods to correct cVEMP amplitude appears unjustified. American Academy of Audiology.

Evaluation of serum sialic acid, fucose levels and their ratio in oral squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Chinnannavar, Sangamesh Ningappa; Ashok, Lingappa; Vidya, Kodige Chandrashekhar; Setty, Sunil Mysore Kantharaja; Narasimha, Guru Eraiah; Garg, Ranjana

2015-01-01

Detection of cancer at the early stage is of utmost importance to decrease the morbidity and mortality of the disease. Apart from the conventional biopsy, minimally invasive methods like serum evaluation are used for screening large populations. Thus, this study aimed to estimate serum levels of sialic acid and fucose and their ratio in oral cancer patients and in healthy control group to evaluate their role in diagnosis. Serum samples were collected from 52 healthy controls (group I) and 52 squamous cell carcinoma patients (group II). Estimation of serum levels of sialic acid and fucose and their ratio was performed. This was correlated histopathologically with the grades of carcinoma. Statistical analysis was done by using analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and unpaired "t" test. Results showed that serum levels of sialic acid and fucose were significantly higher in oral cancer patients compared to normal healthy controls (P < 0.001). The sialic acid to fucose ratio was significantly lower in cancer patients than in normal controls (P < 0.01). However, comparison with histological grading, habits, gender, and age group did not show any significant result. The mean serum sialic acid and fucose levels showed an increasing trend from controls to malignant group and their corresponding ratio showed decreasing trend from controls to malignant group. The ratio of sialic acid to fucose can be a useful diagnostic aid for oral cancer patients.

BMI-1 Autoantibody as a New Potential Biomarker for Cervical Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Tong, Yong-Qing; Liu, Bei; Zheng, Hong-Yun; He, Yu-Juan; Gu, Jian; Li, Feng; Li, Yan

2011-01-01

BMI-1 is overexpressed in a variety of cancers, which can elicit an immune response leading to the induction of autoantibodies. However, BMI-1 autoantibody as a biomarker has seldom been studied with the exception of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Whether BMI-1 autoantibodies can be used as a biomarker for cervical carcinoma is unclear. In this study,BMI-1 proteins were isolated by screening of a T7 phage cDNA library from mixed cervical carcinoma tissues. We analyzed BMI-1 autoantibody levels in serum samples from 67 patients with cervical carcinoma and 65 controls using ELISA and immunoblot. BMI-1 mRNA or protein levels were over-expressed in cervical carcinoma cell lines. Immunoblot results exhibited increased BMI-1 autoantibody levels in patient sera compared to normal sera. Additionally, the results for antibody affinity assay showed that there was no difference between cervical polyps and normal sera of BMI-1 autoantibody levels, but it was significantly greater in patient sera than that in normal controls (patient 0.827±0.043 and normal 0.445±0.023; P<0.001). What's more, the levels of BMI-1 autoantibody increased significantly at stage I (0.672±0.019) compared to normal sera (P<0.001), and levels of BMI-1 autoantibodies were increased gradually during the tumor progression (stage I 0.672±0.019; stage II 0.775 ±0.019; stage III 0.890 ±0.027; stage IV 1.043±0.041), which were significantly correlated with disease progression of cervical carcer (P<0.001). Statistical analyses using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves indicated that the BMI-1 autoantibody level can be used as a biomarker for cervical carcinoma (sensitivity 0.78 and specificity 0.76; AUC = 0.922). In conclusion, measuring BMI-1 autoantibody levels of patients with cervical cancer could have clinical prognostic value as well as a non-tissue specific biomarker for neoplasms expressing BMI-1. PMID:22132147

The antidepressant fluoxetine normalizes the nuclear glucocorticoid receptor evoked by psychosocial stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitić, M.; Simić, I.; Djordjević, J.; Radojčić, M. B.; Adžić, M.

2011-12-01

Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression and stress disorders. Glucocorticoids, key regulators of the stress response, exert diverse effects on cellular processes in the hippocampus. Beside non-genomic pathways, glucocorticoid effects are mediated through activation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a ligand activated transcriptional factor that belongs to the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. We analysed the GR protein levels both in the cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments of the hippocampus of Wistar rats exposed to chronic psychosocial isolation stress upon chronic fluoxetine (FLU) treatment. Under chronic stress, corticosterone levels (CORT) were decreased compared to the control, and treatment with FLU did not change its level in the stressed rats. At the molecular level, FLU normalized the level of nuclear GR protein in the hippocampus of the stressed rats. Discrepancy between normalization of nuclear GR in the hippocampus and lack of normalization of HPA axis activity judged by CORT, suggests that other brain structures such as the amygdale and prefrontal cortex that also regulate HPA axis activity, seem not to be normalized by the FLU treatment used in our study.

49 CFR 236.746 - Feature, restoring.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Feature, restoring. An arrangement on an electro-pneumatic switch by means of which power is applied to restore the switch movement to full normal or to full reverse position, before the driving bar creeps sufficiently to unlock the switch, with control level in normal or reverse position. [49 FR 3388, Jan. 26, 1984] ...

Normal Morning Melanin-Concentrating Hormone Levels and No Association with Rapid Eye Movement or Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Parameters in Narcolepsy Type 1 and Type 2

PubMed Central

Schrölkamp, Maren; Jennum, Poul J.; Gammeltoft, Steen; Holm, Anja; Kornum, Birgitte R.; Knudsen, Stine

2017-01-01

Study Objectives: Other than hypocretin-1 (HCRT-1) deficiency in narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), the neurochemical imbalance of NT1 and narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) with normal HCRT-1 levels is largely unknown. The neuropeptide melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is mainly secreted during sleep and is involved in rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep regulation. Hypocretin neurons reciprocally interact with MCH neurons. We hypothesized that altered MCH secretion contributes to the symptoms and sleep abnormalities of narcolepsy and that this is reflected in morning cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) MCH levels, in contrast to previously reported normal evening/afternoon levels. Methods: Lumbar CSF and plasma were collected from 07:00 to 10:00 from 57 patients with narcolepsy (subtypes: 47 NT1; 10 NT2) diagnosed according to International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Third Edition (ICSD-3) and 20 healthy controls. HCRT-1 and MCH levels were quantified by radioimmunoassay and correlated with clinical symptoms, polysomnography (PSG), and Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) parameters. Results: CSF and plasma MCH levels were not significantly different between narcolepsy patients regardless of ICSD-3 subtype, HCRT-1 levels, or compared to controls. CSF MCH and HCRT-1 levels were not significantly correlated. Multivariate regression models of CSF MCH levels, age, sex, and body mass index predicting clinical, PSG, and MSLT parameters did not reveal any significant associations to CSF MCH levels. Conclusions: Our study shows that MCH levels in CSF collected in the morning are normal in narcolepsy and not associated with the clinical symptoms, REM sleep abnormalities, nor number of muscle movements during REM or NREM sleep of the patients. We conclude that morning lumbar CSF MCH measurement is not an informative diagnostic marker for narcolepsy. Citation: Schrölkamp M, Jennum PJ, Gammeltoft S, Holm A, Kornum BR, Knudsen S. Normal morning melanin-concentrating hormone levels and no association with rapid eye movement or non-rapid eye movement sleep parameters in narcolepsy type 1 and type 2. J Clin Sleep Med. 2017;13(2):235–243. PMID:27855741

Up-regulated expression of Tim-3/Gal-9 at maternal-fetal interface in pregnant woman with recurrent spontaneous abortion.

PubMed

Li, Jing; Li, Fan-fan; Zuo, Wei; Zhou, Yuan; Hao, Hai-yan; Dang, Jing; Jiang, Min; He, Meng-zhou; Deng, Dong-rui

2014-08-01

The relationship between T cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin domain protein 3 (Tim-3)/Galectin (Gal)-9 pathway and recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) was studied. Thirty-one pregnant women with RSA and 27 normal early gravidas were investigated to detect the levels of Tim-3 and Gal-9 in villi and deciduas by Western blotting. Meanwhile, the concentration of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-12 in peripheral blood plasma was determined by ELISA in 25 healthy fertile non-pregnant controls, the normal early gravidas and pregnant women with RSA mentioned above, respectively. It was found that the relative expression levels of Tim-3 and Gal-9 in villi and deciduas were significantly increased in pregnant women with RSA as compared with those in the normal early gravidas. The concentration of IL-4 in peripheral blood plasma of pregnant women with RSA was lower than that of the normal early gravidas (P<0.05) and healthy fertile non-pregnant controls (P<0.05), but that of IL-2 in pregnant women with RSA was significantly higher than that of the normal early gravidas (P<0.05) and healthy fertile non-pregnant controls (P<0.05). It was suggested that the overexpression of Tim-3/Gal-9 pathway may be related to the pathogenesis of RSA.

Peripheral nerve metabolism and zinc levels in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Effect of diets high in fish and corn oil

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burke, J.P.; Fenton, M.R.

1991-03-15

This study was designed to assess the effects of diets high in fish and corn oil on peripheral nerve metabolism in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. A type I diabetic state was induced in female Sprague-Dawley rats by injection of STZ. Animals were divided into three dietary groups; normal rat chow, high corn oil diet and high fish oil diet. After 4 weeks animals were analyzed for nerve conduction velocity, bled and then sacrificed. Sciatic nerves were removed, processed and several biochemical parameters determined. Plasma zinc levels were elevated in the STZ normal chow group compared to non-diabetic controls. Bothmore » corn oil and fish oil diets tended to eliminate the rise in plasma zinc. Differences in subcellular distribution of zinc in sciatic nerves were also observed. Normal chow STZ animals displayed a 20% decrease in nerve conduction velocity compared to control. Dietary supplementation with either fish or corn oil seemed to ameliorate these effects. Biochemical analysis of Na{sup +}-K{sup +}-ATPase and protein kinase C revealed a decrease in activity in normal chow animals compared to control groups. Again, dietary intervention with either fish or corn oil seemed to return these activities back to normal. The results suggest a link between zinc metabolism and peripheral nerve metabolism which can be modified by dietary intervention.« less

Self-teaching digital-computer program for fail-operational control of a turbojet engine in a sea-level test stand

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallhagen, R. E.; Arpasi, D. J.

1974-01-01

The design and evaluation are described of a digital turbojet engine control which is capable of sensing catastrophic failures in either the engine rotor speed or the compressor discharge static-pressure signal and is capable of switching control modes to maintain near normal operation. The control program was developed for and tested on a turbojet engine located in a sea-level test stand. The control program is also capable of acquiring all the data that are necessary for the fail-operational control to function.

Relationship of 24-hour urinary free cortisol to 4-hour salivary morning and afternoon cortisol and cortisone as measured by a time-integrated oral diffusion sink.

PubMed

Kathol, R G; Poland, R E; Stokes, P E; Wade, S

1995-05-01

The relationship between salivary corticosteroids integrated over 4-hour periods and urinary free cortisol collected over 24 hours was investigated in normal controls. Twenty-one normal volunteers wore "oral diffusion sink" sampling devices in their mouths for two 4-hour periods (08:00-12:00 hours and 13:00-17:00 hours) and on the same day collected a 24-hour urine specimen. Time-integrated salivary corticosteroid concentrations were determined from the sample devices and urinary free cortisol was measured. Salivary corticosteroids were not consistently higher in the morning than in the afternoon period and did not differ between men and women. Urinary free cortisol levels were higher in women. No salivary corticosteroids measure was significantly correlated with urinary free cortisol. We conclude that time-integrated salivary corticosteroids do not reflect urinary free cortisol levels in normal controls.

Effect of Luffa aegyptiaca (seeds) and Carissa edulis (leaves) extracts on blood glucose level of normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats.

PubMed

El-Fiky, F K; Abou-Karam, M A; Afify, E A

1996-01-01

The present study investigates the effect of oral administration of the ethanolic extracts of Luffa aegyptiaca (seeds) and Carissa edulis (leaves) on blood glucose levels both in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. Treatment with both extracts significantly reduced the blood glucose level in STZ diabetic rats during the first three hours of treatment. L. aegyptiaca extract decreased blood glucose level with a potency similar to that of the biguanide, metformin. The total glycaemic areas were 589.61 +/- 45.62 mg/dl/3 h and 660.38 +/- 64.44 mg/dl/3 h for L. aegyptiaca and metformin, respectively, vs. 816.73 +/- 43.21 mg/dl/3 h for the control (P < 0.05). On the other hand, in normal rats, both treatments produced insignificant changes in blood glucose levels compared to glibenclamide treatment.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Utility of the Synaptic Marker Neurogranin in Alzheimer Disease

PubMed Central

Tarawneh, Rawan; D’Angelo, Gina; Crimmins, Dan; Herries, Elizabeth; Griest, Terry; Fagan, Anne M.; Zipfel, Gregory J.; Ladenson, Jack H.; Morris, John C.; Holtzman, David M.

2016-01-01

IMPORTANCE Synaptic loss is an early pathologic substrate of Alzheimer disease (AD). Neurogranin is a postsynaptic neuronal protein that has demonstrated utility as a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker of synaptic loss in AD. OBJECTIVE To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of CSF neurogranin levels in a large, well-characterized cohort of individuals with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional and longitudinal observational study of cognitive decline in patients with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls was performed. Participants were individuals with a clinical diagnosis of early symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls who were enrolled in longitudinal studies of aging and dementia at the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, from January 21, 2000, through March 21, 2011. Data analysis was performed from November 1, 2013, to March 31, 2015. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Correlations between baseline CSF biomarker levels and future cognitive decline in patients with symptomatic AD and cognitively normal controls overtime. RESULTS A total of 302 individuals (mean [SE] age, 73.1 [0.4] years) were included in this study (95 patients [52 women and 43 men] with AD and 207 controls [125 women and 82 men]). The CSF neurogranin levels differentiated patients with early symptomatic AD from controls with comparable diagnostic utility (mean [SE] area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.71 [0.03]; 95% CI, 0.64–0.77) to the other CSF biomarkers. The CSF neurogranin levels correlated with brain atrophy (normalized whole-brain volumes: adjusted r = −0.38, P = .02; hippocampal volumes: adjusted r = −0.36, P = .03; entorhinal volumes: adjusted r = −0.46, P = .006; and parahippocampal volumes: adjusted r = −0.47, P = .005, n = 38) in AD and with amyloid load (r = 0.39, P = .02, n = 36) in preclinical AD. The CSF neurogranin levels predicted future cognitive impairment (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.29–2.78; P = .001 as a continuous measure, and adjusted hazard ratio, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.13–5.99; P = .02 as a categorical measure using the 85th percentile cutoff value) in controls and rates of cognitive decline (Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes score: β estimate, 0.29; P = .001; global composite scores: β estimate, −0.11; P = .001; episodic memory scores: β estimate, −0.18; P < .001; and semantic memory scores: β estimate, −0.06; P = .04, n = 57) in patients with symptomatic AD over time, similarly to the CSF proteins VILIP-1, tau, and p-tau181. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The CSF levels of the synaptic marker neurogranin offer diagnostic and prognostic utility for early symptomatic AD that is comparable to other CSF markers of AD. Importantly, CSF neurogranin complements the collective ability of these markers to predict future cognitive decline in cognitively normal individuals and, therefore, will be a useful addition to the current panel of AD biomarkers. PMID:27018940

Epigenetic differences in normal colon mucosa of cancer patients suggests altered dietary metabolic pathways

PubMed Central

Silviera, Matthew L.; Smith, Brian P.; Powell, Jasmine; Sapienza, Carmen

2012-01-01

We have compared DNA methylation in normal colon mucosa between colon cancer patients and patients without cancer. We identified significant differences in methylation between the two groups at 114 – 874 genes. The majority of the differences are in pathways involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids. We also compared transcript levels of genes in the insulin-signaling pathway. We found that the mucosa of cancer patients had significantly higher transcript levels of several hormones regulating glucose metabolism and significantly lower transcript levels of a glycolytic enzyme and a key regulator of glucose and lipid homeostasis. The se differences suggest that the normal colon mucosa of cancer patients metabolizes dietary components differently than the colon mucosa of controls. Because the differences identified are present in morphologically normal tissue, they may be diagnostic of colon cancer and/or prognostic of colon cancer susceptibility. PMID:22300984

Complete inhibition of creatine kinase in isolated perfused rat hearts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fossel, E.T.; Hoefeler, H.

1987-01-01

Transient exposure of an isolated isovolumic perfused rat heart to low concentrations (0.5 mM) of perfusate-born iodoacetamide resulted in complete inhibition of creatine kinase and partial inhibition of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in the heart. At low levels of developed pressure, hearts maintained mechanical function, ATP, and creatine phosphate levels at control values. However, iodoacetamide-inhibited hearts were unable to maintain control values of end diastolic pressure or peak systolic pressure as work load increased. Global ischemia resulted in loss of all ATP without loss of creatine phosphate, indicating lack of active creatine kinase. These results indicate that isovolumic perfused rat hearts aremore » able to maintain normal function and normal levels of high-energy phosphates without active creatine kinase at low levels of developed pressure. /sup 31/P-NMR of the heart was carried out.« less

Carrier detection in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Evidence from a study of obligatory carriers and mothers of isolated cases.

PubMed Central

Sibert, J R; Harper, P S; Thompson, R J; Newcombe, R G

1979-01-01

The mean levels of serum creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) were studied in three groups of women: normal controls (57), obligate carriers for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (30), and mothers of isolated cases of this disease (35). The distribution of the levels in these groups was significantly different and was in keeping with the hypothesis that one-third of isolated cases result from new mutations. The control and carrier ranges overlapped considerably, with the level of CPK of 33% of obligate carriers coming within the 97 1/2 centile of the normal range. Odds against an individual being a carrier were derived for specific mean values of CPK. They should be considered with genetic information using Bayes's theorem. The mean CPK levels in obligate carriers showed significant familial clustering. This may have implications in carrier detection. PMID:485196

Nitric oxide metabolite levels in acute vaso-occlusive sickle-cell crisis.

PubMed

Lopez, B L; Barnett, J; Ballas, S K; Christopher, T A; Davis-Moon, L; Ma, X

1996-12-01

1) To measure nitric oxide (NO) metabolite levels in patients presenting to the ED in acute vaso-occlusive sickle-cell crisis (SCC), and 2) to determine whether a relationship exists between NO metabolite levels and pain. A prospective, observational study of patients with documented sickle-cell anemia (SCA), aged > or = 18 years, presenting in typical, acute SCC was conducted in an urban, university teaching hospital. Excluded were those with atypical pain or acute, coexistent disease (as evidenced by fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, or hypotension). Pain scores were measured by a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS). Blood NO metabolite levels for SCC patients and control subjects (healthy volunteers, n = 9; SCA control subjects not in SCC, n = 10) were determined using an NO-specific chemiluminescence technique that measured plasma nitrite and nitrate, the stable end-products of NO. The acute SCC patients were divided into 3 groups, with the range for the SCC-normal (n = 5) group defined as within 2 SD of the healthy volunteer control patients. The SCC-low patients (n = 21) had NO metabolite levels below this range and the SCC-high (n = 21) patients had levels above this range. The SCA and healthy volunteer control groups had similar NO metabolite levels (25.3 vs 22.6 mumol; p = 0.10). The 3 acute SCC groups had the following mean NO levels: 1) SCC-normal = 21.3 +/- 1.6 mumol; 2) SCC-low = 7.2 +/- 1.1 mumol; and 3) SCC-high = 43.7 +/- 3.5 mumol. The SCC-high NO-level group had significantly lower VAS pain scores when compared with the SCC-low and SCC-normal NO-level groups (6.52 +/- 1.85 cm vs 8.76 +/- 0.83 cm, and 8.62 +/- 1.29 cm, p = 0.02). NO metabolite levels vary in SCC patients. Elevated levels are associated with lower pain scores, while lower levels are associated with higher pain scores, indicating that NO metabolites may potentially represent a marker for compensatory mechanisms in SCC tissue ischemia. Further work is needed to delineate the usefulness of NO metabolites in assessing the severity of SCC.

Serum osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclear factors kB (RANKL) concentrations in normal children and in children with pubertal precocity, Turner's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Buzi, F; Maccarinelli, G; Guaragni, B; Ruggeri, F; Radetti, G; Meini, A; Mazzolari, E; Cocchi, D

2004-01-01

Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a secreted member of the TNF receptor superfamily. OPG is made by osteoblastic cells and is expressed in a wide variety of cell and tissue types. It acts as a decoy receptor by binding the receptor activator of nuclear factors kB (RANKL) and preventing RANKL-induced osteoclast formation and differentiation. Numerous cytokines and hormones (TGF-beta, PTH, vitamin D, glucocorticoids and oestrogens) exert their effects on osteoclastogenesis by regulating the production of OPG. In the present study we compared serum OPG and RANKL concentrations in a group of normal children (1-14 years old) with those of pair-aged children affected by different diseases [Turner's syndrome (TS), early/precocious puberty (PP) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)]. OPG and RANKL concentrations were measured by an enzyme immunoassay method using a commercial kit. Mean (+/- SD) OPG level in normal children was 4.05 +/- 1.63 pmol/l with no difference between males and females. OPG values in children 1-4 years old (5.87 +/- 2.22 pmol/l) were significantly higher than in children 4-14 years old (3.55 +/- 0.97 pmol/l). OPG levels in children with RA were significantly higher than in controls (6.33 +/- 2.57 pmol/l vs. 4.05 +/- 1.63 pmol/l, P < 0.01); patients with TS or PP had OPG levels superimposable to those of controls (2.61 +/- 0.67 pmol/l and 3.99 +/- 0.85 pmol/l, respectively), but in TS OPG levels were significantly lower than in age-matched females. Mean RANKL concentration in normal subjects was 0.81 +/- 1.55 pmol/l; there was a slight decline in RANKL levels with age. RANKL concentrations in subjects with TS, PP, RA and controls did not differ significantly, and did not differ from those published in adult normal subjects. It appears from our data that OPG serum levels in healthy children aged > 4 years are similar to those present in young adult men, with higher levels in the first 4 years of life. Although the meaning of the alterations of OPG levels observed in pathological conditions is still obscure, they appear potentially interesting in view of a key role played by this protein in bone homeostasis.

Subnormal energy expenditure: a putative causal factor in the weight gain induced by treatment of hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Jacobsen, R; Lundsgaard, C; Lorenzen, J; Toubro, S; Perrild, H; Krog-Mikkelsen, I; Astrup, A

2006-03-01

To examine the causes of weight gain occurring as an adverse effect of treatment of hyperthyroidism. We measured 24-h energy expenditure (EE), body composition and spontaneous physical activity (SPA) in eight patients before and 1 year after treatment of hyperthyroidism was initiated, and eight controls. One year after initiation of treatment thyrotropin was normalized, thyroid hormones had fallen to the lower end of the reference range and fat mass had increased by 3.5 kg (p < 0.001). Twenty-four hour EE adjusted for fat-free mass (FFM) was 15% higher in hyperthyroid patients before treatment than in controls (p = 0.003), and treatment decreased 24-h EE by 1.9 MJ/day (p = 0.001). After treatment, 24-h EE, adjusted for FFM, was similar to the controls. Multiple regression analyses showed that the suppressed EE could partly be attributed to an iatrogenic suppression of thyroid hormones, resulting in lower sleeping EE. Twenty-four hour SPA was normal in the hyperthyroid state, but decreased after treatment by 21% (p = 0.045), to a level not significantly different, but still below that of the controls. The study suggests that weight gain during treatment of hyperthyroidism might be due to subnormal levels of EE and SPA caused by a suppression of the thyroid hormone to a level in the lower end of the normal range.

An analytical approach to reduce between-plate variation in multiplex assays that measure antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum antigens.

PubMed

Fang, Rui; Wey, Andrew; Bobbili, Naveen K; Leke, Rose F G; Taylor, Diane Wallace; Chen, John J

2017-07-17

Antibodies play an important role in immunity to malaria. Recent studies show that antibodies to multiple antigens, as well as, the overall breadth of the response are associated with protection from malaria. Yet, the variability and reliability of antibody measurements against a combination of malarial antigens using multiplex assays have not been well characterized. A normalization procedure for reducing between-plate variation using replicates of pooled positive and negative controls was investigated. Sixty test samples (30 from malaria-positive and 30 malaria-negative individuals), together with five pooled positive-controls and two pooled negative-controls, were screened for antibody levels to 9 malarial antigens, including merozoite antigens (AMA1, EBA175, MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, MSP11, Pf41), sporozoite CSP, and pregnancy-associated VAR2CSA. The antibody levels were measured in triplicate on each of 3 plates, and the experiments were replicated on two different days by the same technician. The performance of the proposed normalization procedure was evaluated with the pooled controls for the test samples on both the linear and natural-log scales. Compared with data on the linear scale, the natural-log transformed data were less skewed and reduced the mean-variance relationship. The proposed normalization procedure using pooled controls on the natural-log scale significantly reduced between-plate variation. For malaria-related research that measure antibodies to multiple antigens with multiplex assays, the natural-log transformation is recommended for data analysis and use of the normalization procedure with multiple pooled controls can improve the precision of antibody measurements.

Testicular function during puberty and young adulthood in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome with and without spermatozoa in seminal fluid.

PubMed

Rohayem, J; Nieschlag, E; Zitzmann, M; Kliesch, S

2016-11-01

Patients with Klinefelter's syndrome experience progressive testicular degeneration resulting in impaired endocrine function and azoospermia. What proportion of adolescents develop testosterone deficiency during puberty and how many have spermatozoa in their semen is unclear to date. We aimed to investigate testicular function during puberty and young adulthood in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome and to assess testosterone effects in target tissues. The clinical data of 281 patients with non-mosaic Klinefelter's syndrome aged 10-25 years without previous testosterone replacement were reviewed. In late pubertal adolescents, semen analyses were evaluated, and testicular volumes, hormone and haemoglobin (Hb) levels, the number of CAG repeats and final height data were compared to those of 233 age-matched controls with pubertal gynaecomastia. Spontaneous pubertal virilisation to Tanner stages IV-V occurred. Serum T levels ≥10 nmol/L were reached in 62% of patients with Klinefelter's syndrome and in 85% of controls at ages 15-25 (T KFS : 12.2 ± 5.4 vs. T C : 16.6 ± 7.2 nmol/L). LH KFS levels were elevated >10 U/L in 84%, and normal in all controls (LH KFS : 18.6 ± 12.2 vs. LH C : 3.5 ± 1.6 U/L). In nine of 130 (7%) adolescents with Klinefelter's syndrome, spermatozoa (oligozoospermia) were found in semen; all had T levels >7 nmol/L and eight of nine had LH levels ≤18 U/L, while their hormone levels, number of CAG repeats and testicular volumes were not different from those of adolescents with azoospermia. Controls had normal sperm concentrations in 73% (46/63). Semen volumes KFS were normal in 55% vs. 78% in controls; Hb KFS was normal in 89% (Hb C : 97%). Mean final height KFS was 185 ± 8 cm vs. 181 ± 7 cm in controls. Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism develops during early puberty in adolescents with Klinefelter's syndrome and remains compensated in over 60% during ages 15-25, with sufficient testosterone secretion for spontaneous accomplishment of pubertal development. Spermatozoa in semen are rare and associated with T levels >7 nmol/L. Parameters reflecting androgen deficiency in target tissues may help to optimise timing of testosterone substitution, which should preferably not be initiated before fertility status has been clarified. © 2016 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

Effects of Lentinula edodes consumption on biochemical, hematologic and oxidative stress parameters in rats receiving high-fat diet.

PubMed

Spim, Sara Rosicler Vieira; de Oliveira, Bruna Giovanna Corrêa Chrispim; Leite, Fernanda Gomes; Gerenutti, Marli; Grotto, Denise

2017-10-01

Functional foods can prevent/reduce the risks related to obesity. Lentinula edodes is a highly nutritious mushroom rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Some studies have demonstrated the hypocholesterolemic effects from L. edodes in high doses, which does not represent the consumption in humans. We evaluated ingestion of a realistic dose of L. edodes associated with a high-fat diet (HFD) on hematologic, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters. Eighteen male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (normal diet); HFD; and HFD + L. edodes (100 mg/kg/day). After 30 days, blood was collected. Biochemical and hematologic parameters were analyzed, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers. The HFD increased levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Lentinula edodes reduced these parameters significantly to concentrations found in the control group. The HFD increased levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase (markers of liver damage). Lentinula edodes returned the levels of these enzymes to normal levels and normalized serum levels of urea (which were also increased owing to consumption of the HFD). Lentinula edodes reduced levels of urea and glucose. Lipid peroxidation was increased in rats receiving the HFD, and L. edodes reduced malondialdehyde levels, thereby preventing oxidation of fatty acids. Lentinula edodes was shown to have hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective and renoprotective features in doses that are suitable for humans.

Effect of sodium intake on sympathetic and hemodynamic response to thermal receptor stimulation.

PubMed

DiBona, Gerald F; Jones, Susan Y

2003-02-01

Low dietary sodium intake increases central nervous system angiotensin activity, which increases basal renal sympathetic nerve activity and shifts its arterial baroreflex control to a higher level of arterial pressure. This results in a higher level of renal sympathetic nerve activity for a given level of arterial pressure during low dietary sodium intake than during either normal or high dietary sodium intake, in which there is less central angiotensin activity. Peripheral thermal receptor stimulation overrides arterial baroreflex control and produces a pressor response, tachycardia, increased renal sympathetic nerve activity, and renal vasoconstriction. To test the hypothesis that increased central angiotensin activity would enhance the responses to peripheral thermal receptor stimulation, anesthetized normal rats in balance on low, normal, and high dietary sodium intake were subjected to acute peripheral thermal receptor stimulation. Low sodium rats had greater increases in renal sympathetic nerve activity, greater decreases in RBF, and greater increases in renal vascular resistance than high sodium rats. Responses of normal sodium rats were between those of low and high sodium rats. Arterial pressure and heart rate responses were not different among dietary groups. Spontaneously hypertensive rats, known to have increased central nervous system angiotensin activity, also had greater renal sympathoexcitatory and vasoconstrictor responses than normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats. These results support the view that increased central nervous system angiotensin activity alters arterial baroreflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity such that the renal sympathoexcitatory and vasoconstrictor responses to peripheral thermoreceptor stimulation are enhanced.

Higher fasting glucose is associated with poorer cognition among healthy young adults.

PubMed

Hawkins, Misty A W; Gunstad, John; Calvo, Dayana; Spitznagel, Mary Beth

2016-02-01

Obesity is associated with cognitive deficits; however, the mechanisms are unclear, especially among otherwise healthy adults. Our objectives were to examine (a) whether obesity is linked to elevations in fasting glucose and (b) whether these elevations are associated with cognitive impairment among otherwise healthy young adults. Participants were 35 normal weight adults and 35 young adults with obesity who completed a task from the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics-4 (ANAM-4). Measured body mass index (BMI) and fasting blood glucose levels (mg/dL) were examined. Persons with obesity had higher fasting glucose levels than normal weight persons (p = .03). After applying Bonferroni correction for multiple tests, higher fasting glucose predicted less accurate performance on tests of inhibitory control: Go/No-Go Commission Errors (β = .33, p = .004). No effects were observed for sustained attention or working memory (ps ≥. 049). Persons with glucose levels in the prediabetes range had nearly twice as many errors as those with normal glucose, a large effect that was independent of BMI. Young adults who were obese but otherwise healthy had higher fasting glucose levels compared with normal weight peers. Higher glucose levels were associated with poorer cognitive performance on tests of inhibitory control, especially among individuals with prediabetes levels. Thus, subclinical elevations in blood glucose may contribute to cognitive impairment and, ultimately, greater impulsivity-well in advance of the development of chronic disease states (e.g., insulin resistance or Type 2 diabetes) and independently of excess adiposity--though prospective studies are needed to determine directionality of this relationship. (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Assessment of tenascin-C levels in ventricular noncompaction/hypertrabeculation patients: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Erer, Hatice Betul; Guvenc, Tolga Sinan; Kemik, Ahu Sarbay; Yilmaz, Hale; Kul, Seref; Altay, Servet; Oz, Dilaver; Zeren, Gonul; Ekmekci, Ahmet; Zencirci, Aycan Esen; Sayar, Nurten; Eren, Mehmet

2014-02-01

Ventricular noncompaction/hypertrabeculation (NC/HT) is a rare form of congenital cardiomyopathy. We aimed to investigate the presence of serum tenascin-C (TN-C) in adult patients with NC/HT and evaluate its value. Serum TN-C levels were measured by ELISA in 50 NC/HT patients both with/without systolic dysfunction and in 23 normal controls. Systolic dysfunction was defined as ejection fraction (EF) ≤ 40. Mann-Whitney U-test and ROC curve analysis were done. Of 49 NC/HT patients, 24 (49%) patients had systolic dysfunction (mean age 36 ± 15) and 25 patients (51%) had normal systolic function (mean age 36 ± 17). The ages between groups were not different. The mean levels of serum TN-C in patients with or without systolic dysfunction were 26 ± 10 ng/mL and 26 ± 8 ng/mL respectively, compared to normal controls, 7 ± 2 ng/mL (P < 0.001). No significance was observed between 2 groups of NC/HT patients regarding TN-C levels (P = 0.8). The ROC curve analysis revealed that a TN-C value of 11.7 ng/mL identified patients with NC/HT with 100% sensitivity and specifity. High serum TN-C levels are present in adult NC/HT cardiomyopathy even when left ventricular systolic function remains normal. Also, serum TN-C levels could be regarded as a candidate biomarker in the diagnosis of NC/HT which needs to be tested in larger prospective studies. © 2013, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Molecular Signatures and Diagnostic Biomarkers of Cumulative Blast-Graded Mild TBI

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

100 ± 9% 191 ± 20%* Values are mean ± SE of 4 rats/ group expressed as percentage of control . The level of the averaged control for each...protein is arbitrarily set to 100 with SE adjusted proportionally with remaining groups normalized to the level in control . *Significantly increased...not significant vs sham; **- pɘ.05, and ***-pɘ.01 Rat number in each group ranged 4-7. Mean, pg/ml for GFAP and UCHL1 and AU in % control

Insulin and glucose excursion following premeal insulin lispro or repaglinide in cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

PubMed

Moran, A; Phillips, J; Milla, C

2001-10-01

Insulin and glucose levels in response to premeal insulin lispro or repaglinide were evaluated in adult patients with cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) without fasting hyperglycemia. Seven patients with CFRD were fed 1,000-kcal liquid mixed meals. Three study conditions were administered in random order on separate mornings: 1) no premeal diabetes medication, 2) insulin lispro, 0.1 unit/kg body wt premeal and 3) repaglinide 1 mg premeal. Glucose and insulin levels were measured every 20 min for 5 h. Fasting insulin and glucose levels were normal in patients with CFRD, but the peak glucose level was elevated. Insulin lispro significantly decreased the peak glucose level (P = 0.0004) and the 2-h (P = 0.001) and 5-h (P < 0.0001) glucose area under the curve (AUC). Repaglinide significantly decreased the 5-h glucose AUC (P = 0.03). Neither drug completely normalized cystic fibrosis glucose excursion at the doses used for this study. Insulin lispro significantly increased the 5-h insulin AUC (P = 0.04). In response to subcutaneous insulin lispro, postprandial glucose excursion was significantly diminished and insulin secretion was enhanced compared with a control meal in which no medication was given to patients with CFRD. The oral agent repaglinide resulted in lesser corrections in these parameters. Neither drug completely normalized glucose or insulin levels, suggesting that the doses chosen for this study were suboptimal. Placebo-controlled longitudinal studies comparing the effectiveness of repaglinide and insulin on glucose metabolic control as well as overall nutrition and body weight are needed to help determine optimal medical treatment of CFRD.

Central exogenous nitric oxide decreases cardiac sympathetic drive and improves baroreflex control of heart rate in ovine heart failure.

PubMed

Ramchandra, Rohit; Hood, Sally G; May, Clive N

2014-08-01

Heart failure (HF) is associated with increased cardiac and renal sympathetic drive, which are both independent predictors of poor prognosis. A candidate mechanism for the centrally mediated sympathoexcitation in HF is reduced synthesis of the inhibitory neuromodulator nitric oxide (NO), resulting from downregulation of neuronal NO synthase (nNOS). Therefore, we investigated the effects of increasing the levels of NO in the brain, or selectively in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), on cardiac sympathetic nerve activity (CSNA) and baroreflex control of CSNA and heart rate in ovine pacing-induced HF. The resting level of CSNA was significantly higher in the HF than in the normal group, but the resting level of RSNA was unchanged. Intracerebroventricular infusion of the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 500 μg · ml(-1)· h(-1)) in conscious normal sheep and sheep in HF inhibited CSNA and restored baroreflex control of heart rate, but there was no change in RSNA. Microinjection of SNP into the PVN did not cause a similar cardiac sympathoinhibition in either group, although the number of nNOS-positive cells was decreased in the PVN of sheep in HF. Reduction of endogenous NO with intracerebroventricular infusion of N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester decreased CSNA in normal but not in HF sheep and caused no change in RSNA in either group. These findings indicate that endogenous NO in the brain provides tonic excitatory drive to increase resting CSNA in the normal state, but not in HF. In contrast, exogenously administered NO inhibited CSNA in both the normal and HF groups via an action on sites other than the PVN. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

Estimation and comparison of salivary immunoglobulin A levels in tobacco chewers, tobacco smokers and normal subjects.

PubMed

Doni, Bharati R; Patil, Santosh; Peerapur, Basavaraj V; Kadaganchi, Harish; Bhat, Kishore G

2013-06-01

To estimate the salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels in tobacco chewers, tobacco smokers and normal subjects and to compare the salivary IgA levels among tobacco chewers and tobacco smokers. The study group consisted of 80 subjects (tobacco users), 40 tobacco chewers and 40 tobacco smokers. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected from all tobacco users and 40 healthy age- and gender-matched non-tobacco users as control group. The study and control groups were divided into four subgroups based on age range. Salivary IgA levels were estimated by single radial immunodiffusion assay (SRID). All data were analysed using statistical software and to compare the results in three groups, single-factor analysis of variance was applied. The mean salivary IgA level in control group was 16.76 ± 1.37 mg/dl (SD); in tobacco chewers it was 7.89 ± 0.61 mg/dl (SD) and in tobacco smokers it was 6.55 ± 0.99 mg/dl (SD). The salivary IgA levels were decreased in tobacco chewers and tobacco smokers compared with the controls. Among the tobacco users, tobacco smokers had much reduced salivary IgA levels compared to tobacco chewers. All of these results were highly significant (P<0.001). The present study showed that tobacco chewers and tobacco smokers had decreased salivary IgA levels and among tobacco users, tobacco smokers had much reduced salivary IgA levels compared to tobacco chewers in unstimulated whole saliva.

Androgens in Women with Anorexia Nervosa and Normal-Weight Women with Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

PubMed Central

Miller, K. K.; Lawson, E. A.; Mathur, V.; Wexler, T. L.; Meenaghan, E.; Misra, M.; Herzog, D. B.; Klibanski, A.

2011-01-01

Context Anorexia nervosa and normal-weight hypothalamic amenorrhea are characterized by hypogonadism and hypercortisolemia. However, it is not known whether these endocrine abnormalities result in reductions in adrenal and/or ovarian androgens or androgen precursors in such women, nor is it known whether relative androgen deficiency contributes to abnormalities in bone density and body composition in this population. Objective Our objective was to determine whether endogenous androgen and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels: 1) are reduced in women with anorexia nervosa and normal-weight hypothalamic amenorrhea, 2) are reduced further by oral contraceptives in women with anorexia nervosa, and 3) are predictors of weight, body composition, or bone density in such women. Design and Setting We conducted a cross-sectional study at a general clinical research center. Study Participants A total of 217 women were studied: 137 women with anorexia nervosa not receiving oral contraceptives, 32 women with anorexia nervosa receiving oral contraceptives, 21 normal-weight women with hypothalamic amenorrhea, and 27 healthy eumenorrheic controls. Main Outcome Measures Testosterone, free testosterone, DHEAS, bone density, fat-free mass, and fat mass were assessed. Results Endogenous total and free testosterone, but not DHEAS, were lower in women with anorexia nervosa than in controls. More marked reductions in both free testosterone and DHEAS were observed in women with anorexia nervosa receiving oral contraceptives. In contrast, normal-weight women with hypothalamic amenorrhea had normal androgen and DHEAS levels. Lower free testosterone, total testosterone, and DHEAS levels predicted lower bone density at most skeletal sites measured, and free testosterone was positively associated with fat-free mass. Conclusions Androgen levels are low, appear to be even further reduced by oral contraceptive use, and are predictors of bone density and fat-free mass in women with anorexia nervosa. Interventional studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine whether oral contraceptive use, mediated by reductions in endogenous androgen levels, is deleterious to skeletal health in such women. PMID:17284620

Androgens in women with anorexia nervosa and normal-weight women with hypothalamic amenorrhea.

PubMed

Miller, K K; Lawson, E A; Mathur, V; Wexler, T L; Meenaghan, E; Misra, M; Herzog, D B; Klibanski, A

2007-04-01

Anorexia nervosa and normal-weight hypothalamic amenorrhea are characterized by hypogonadism and hypercortisolemia. However, it is not known whether these endocrine abnormalities result in reductions in adrenal and/ or ovarian androgens or androgen precursors in such women, nor is it known whether relative androgen deficiency contributes to abnormalities in bone density and body composition in this population. Our objective was to determine whether endogenous androgen and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels: 1) are reduced in women with anorexia nervosa and normal-weight hypothalamic amenorrhea, 2) are reduced further by oral contraceptives in women with anorexia nervosa, and 3) are predictors of weight, body composition, or bone density in such women. We conducted a cross-sectional study at a general clinical research center. A total of 217 women were studied: 137 women with anorexia nervosa not receiving oral contraceptives, 32 women with anorexia nervosa receiving oral contraceptives, 21 normal-weight women with hypothalamic amenorrhea, and 27 healthy eumenorrheic controls. Testosterone, free testosterone, DHEAS, bone density, fat-free mass, and fat mass were assessed. Endogenous total and free testosterone, but not DHEAS, were lower in women with anorexia nervosa than in controls. More marked reductions in both free testosterone and DHEAS were observed in women with anorexia nervosa receiving oral contraceptives. In contrast, normal-weight women with hypothalamic amenorrhea had normal androgen and DHEAS levels. Lower free testosterone, total testosterone, and DHEAS levels predicted lower bone density at most skeletal sites measured, and free testosterone was positively associated with fat-free mass. Androgen levels are low, appear to be even further reduced by oral contraceptive use, and are predictors of bone density and fat-free mass in women with anorexia nervosa. Interventional studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine whether oral contraceptive use, mediated by reductions in endogenous androgen levels, is deleterious to skeletal health in such women.

Hemin, a heme oxygenase-1 inducer, improves aortic endothelial dysfunction in insulin resistant rats.

PubMed

Chen, Yong-song; Zhu, Xu-xin; Zhao, Xiao-yun; Xing, Han-ying; Li, Yu-guang

2008-02-05

Under an insulin resistance (IR) state, overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be playing a major role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Recently, increasing attention has been drawn to the beneficial effects of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to investigate the effects of HO-1 on vascular function of thoracic aorta in IR rats and demonstrate the probable mechanisms of HO-1 against endothelial dysfunction in IR states. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats fed with high-fat diet for 6 weeks and the IR models were validated with hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp test. Then the IR rat models (n = 44) were further randomized into 3 subgroups, namely, the IR control group (n = 26, in which 12 were sacrificed immediately and evaluated for all study measures), a hemin treated IR group (n = 10) and a zinc protoporphyrin-IX (ZnPP-IX) treated IR group (n = 8) that were fed with a high-fat diet. Rats with standardized chow diet were used as the normal control group (n = 12). The rats in IR control group, hemin treated IR group and ZnPP-IX treated IR group were subsequently treated every other day with an intraperitoneal injection of normal saline, hemin (inducer of HO-1, 30 micromol/kg) or ZnPP-IX (inhibitor of HO-1, 10 micromol/kg) for 4 weeks. Rats in the normal control group remained on a standardized chow diet and were treated with intraperitoneal injections of normal saline every other day for 4 weeks. Systolic arterial blood pressure (SABP) was measured by tail-cuffed microphotoelectric plethysmography. The blood carbon monoxide (CO) was measured by blood gas analysis. The levels of nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), blood glucose (BG), insulin, total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) in serum, and the levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the aorta were measured. The expression of HO-1 mRNA and HO-1 protein in aortal tissue were detected by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot. The vasoreactive tensometry was performed with thoracic aortic rings (TARs). Compared with the normal control group, the levels of SABP, BG, insulin, TC, TG, NO, iNOS and MDA were higher, while the levels of CO, TAOC, SOD and eNOS were lower in IR control rats. After treatment of IR rats for 4 weeks a more intensive expression of HO-1 mRNA and HO-1 protein were observed in hemin treated IR group compared with the normal control group. And compared with 4-week IR control rats, the levels of CO, TAOC, SOD and eNOS were increased, while the levels of SABP and iNOS activity were lower in the hemin treated IR group. Administration of hemin in IR rats appeared to improve the disordered vasorelaxation of TARs to acetylcholine (ACh). Alternatively, the reverse results of SABP, CO, TAOC, SOD, iNOS and vasorelaxation responses to ACh were observed in IR rats with administration of ZnPP-IX. The endothelial dysfunction in the aorta is present in the IR state. The protective effects of HO-1 against aortic endothelial dysfunction may be due to its antioxidation and regulative effect of vasoactive substances. It is proposed that hemin, inducer of HO-1, could be a potential therapeutic option for vascular dysfunction in IR states.

Hypolipidaemic Effect of Hericium erinaceum Grown in Artemisia capillaris on Obese Rats

PubMed Central

Choi, Won-Sik; Kim, Young-Sun; Park, Byeoung-Soo; Kim, Jang-Eok

2013-01-01

In this study, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum cultivated with Artemisia capillaris (HEAC) were assessed for their ability to lower the cholesterol levels of male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat diet. Rats were randomly subdivided into seven test groups. Each group contained eight rats fed a high-fat diet during a growth period lasting 4 wk. Supplementation with the extracts was performed once a day for 2 wk after the high-fat diet. The control group (rats fed a high-fat diet) showed a high efficiency ratio (feed efficiency ratio) value compared to the normal group. Biochemical parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglyceride (TG) levels dramatically increased in the control group compared to the normal group. High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) content in the control group was also significantly lower relative to the normal group. Two positive control groups, treated with simvastatin and atorvastatin, had lowered TC, LDL-c, and TG levels, and increased HDL-c content compared to the control group. Treatment with the tested extracts, including HEAC, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum, and ethanolic extracts from Artemisia capillaris reduced TC, LDL-c, and TG levels and elevated HDL-c content in the hyperlipidemia rats. The atherogenic index and cardiac risk factor values for the HEAC-treated group were 0.95 and 1.95, respectively. Simvastatin- and atorvastatin-treated groups showed atherogenic index values of 1.56 and 1.69, respectively, and cardiac risk factor values of 2.56 and 2.69, respectively. These results show HEAC possesses an ability to cure hyperlipidemia in rats and may serve as an effective natural medicine for treating hyperlipidemia in humans. PMID:23874132

Hypolipidaemic Effect of Hericium erinaceum Grown in Artemisia capillaris on Obese Rats.

PubMed

Choi, Won-Sik; Kim, Young-Sun; Park, Byeoung-Soo; Kim, Jang-Eok; Lee, Sung-Eun

2013-06-01

In this study, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum cultivated with Artemisia capillaris (HEAC) were assessed for their ability to lower the cholesterol levels of male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat diet. Rats were randomly subdivided into seven test groups. Each group contained eight rats fed a high-fat diet during a growth period lasting 4 wk. Supplementation with the extracts was performed once a day for 2 wk after the high-fat diet. The control group (rats fed a high-fat diet) showed a high efficiency ratio (feed efficiency ratio) value compared to the normal group. Biochemical parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglyceride (TG) levels dramatically increased in the control group compared to the normal group. High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) content in the control group was also significantly lower relative to the normal group. Two positive control groups, treated with simvastatin and atorvastatin, had lowered TC, LDL-c, and TG levels, and increased HDL-c content compared to the control group. Treatment with the tested extracts, including HEAC, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum, and ethanolic extracts from Artemisia capillaris reduced TC, LDL-c, and TG levels and elevated HDL-c content in the hyperlipidemia rats. The atherogenic index and cardiac risk factor values for the HEAC-treated group were 0.95 and 1.95, respectively. Simvastatin- and atorvastatin-treated groups showed atherogenic index values of 1.56 and 1.69, respectively, and cardiac risk factor values of 2.56 and 2.69, respectively. These results show HEAC possesses an ability to cure hyperlipidemia in rats and may serve as an effective natural medicine for treating hyperlipidemia in humans.

Colon Cancer Associated Transcript-1 (CCAT1) Expression in Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach

PubMed Central

Mizrahi, Ido; Mazeh, Haggi; Grinbaum, Ronit; Beglaibter, Nahum; Wilschanski, Michael; Pavlov, Vera; Adileh, Muchamad; Stojadinovic, Alexander; Avital, Itzhak; Gure, Ali Osmay; Halle, David; Nissan, Aviram

2015-01-01

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to have functional roles in cancer biology and are dys-regulated in many tumors. Colon Cancer Associated Transcript -1 (CCAT1) is a lncRNA, previously shown to be significantly up-regulated in colon cancer. The aim of this study is to determine expression levels of CCAT1 in gastric carcinoma (GC). Methods: Tissue samples were obtained from patients undergoing resection for gastric carcinoma (n=19). For each patient, tumor tissue and normal appearing gastric mucosa were taken. Normal gastric tissues obtained from morbidly obese patients, undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy served as normal controls (n=19). A human gastric carcinoma cell line (AGS) served as positive control. RNA was extracted from all tissue samples and CCAT1 expression was analyzed using quantitative real time-PCR (qRT-PCR). Results: Low expression of CCAT1 was identified in normal gastric mucosa samples obtained from morbidly obese patients [mean Relative Quantity (RQ) = 1.95±0.4]. AGS human gastric carcinoma cell line showed an elevated level of CCAT1 expression (RQ=8.02). Expression levels of CCAT1 were approximately 10.8 fold higher in GC samples than in samples taken from the negative control group (RQ=21.1±5 vs. RQ=1.95±0.4, respectively, p<0.001). Interestingly, CCAT1 expression was significantly overexpressed in adjacent normal tissues when compared to the negative control group (RQ = 15.25±2 vs. RQ=1.95±0.4, respectively, p<0.001). Tissues obtained from recurrent GC cases showed the highest expression levels (RQ = 88.8±31; p<0.001). Expression levels increased with tumor stage (T4- 36.4±15, T3- 16.1±6, T2- 4.7±1), however this did not reach statistical significance (p=0.2). There was no difference in CCAT1 expression between intestinal and diffuse type GC (RQ=22.4±7 vs. 22.4±16, respectively, p=0.9). Within the normal gastric tissue samples, no significant difference in CCAT1 expression was observed in helicobacter pylori negative and positive patients (RQ= 2.4±0.9 vs. 0.93±0.2, respectively, p=0.13). Conclusion: CCAT1 is up-regulated in gastric cancer, and may serve as a potential bio-marker for early detection and surveillance. PMID:25561974

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Valcheva-Kuzmanova, S; Kuzmanov, K; Tancheva, S; Belcheva, A

2007-03-01

Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice (AMFJ) is rich in phenolic antioxidants, especially flavonoids from the anthocyanin subclass. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of AMFJ on plasma glucose and lipids in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). AMFJ was applied by gavage at doses of 10 and 20 ml/kg for 6 weeks to normal and diabetic rats. Streptozotocin caused a significant elevation of plasma glucose by 141% and of plasma triglycerides (TG) by 64% in comparison with normal control rats and induced statistically insignificant elevations of total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and a reduction of HDL-cholesterol. Applied to normal rats, AMFJ did not influence plasma glucose and lipid levels. Applied to diabetic rats, AMFJ (10 and 20 ml/kg) significantly reduced plasma glucose by 44% and 42% and TG by 35% and 39%, respectively, to levels that did not significantly differ from those of the normal control rats and counteracted the influence of streptozotocin on total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol. In conclusion, AMFJ significantly decreased the streptozotocin-induced abnormalities in blood glucose and TG in diabetic rats and might be useful in prevention and control of diabetes mellitus and diabetes-associated complications. Copyright 2007 Prous Science.

Morphological Differences Between Seyfert Hosts and Normal Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shlosman, Isaac

Using new sub-arcsecond resolution imaging we compare large-scale stellar bar fraction in CfA sample of Seyferts and a closely matched control sample of normal galaxies. We find a difference between the samples on the 2.5σ level. We further compare the axial ratios of bars in all available samples quoted in the literature and find a deficiency of small axial ratio bars in Seyferts compared to normal galaxies.

Getting better, but not well: A 1.5 year follow-up of cognitive performance and cortisol levels in clinical and non-Clinical burnout.

PubMed

Oosterholt, Bart G; Maes, Joseph H R; Van der Linden, Dimitri; Verbraak, Marc J P M; Kompier, Michiel A J

2016-05-01

The purpose was to reexamine cognitive performance and cortisol levels of initial clinical burnout patients, non-clinical burnout individuals, and healthy controls. After 1.5-years of the initial measurement, clinical burnout patients showed a reduction of burnout symptoms and general physical and psychological complaints, but these were still elevated compared with controls. Nonetheless, they continued to report cognitive problems and still showed a minor impaired cognitive test performance. However, they no longer reported larger subjective costs associated with cognitive test performance and their cortisol awakening response (CAR) returned to a normal level. Compared with controls, non-clinical burnout individuals still reported the same, elevated, level of burnout symptoms, general physical and psychological complaints, and cognitive problems. Their cognitive test performance and associated subjective costs remained normal. However, they seemed to continue to display a lowered CAR. To conclude, after 1.5-years, clinical burnout patients got better, but not 'well', and non-clinical burnout individuals remained not 'well'. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Raloxifene improves skeletal properties in an animal model of cystic chronic kidney disease

PubMed Central

Newman, Christopher L.; Creecy, Amy; Granke, Mathilde; Nyman, Jeffry S.; Tian, Nannan; Hammond, Max A.; Wallace, Joseph M.; Brown, Drew M.; Chen, Neal; Moe, Sharon M.; Allen, Matthew R.

2015-01-01

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have an increased risk of fracture. Raloxifene is a mild anti-resorptive agent that reduces fracture risk in the general population. Here we assessed the impact of raloxifene on the skeletal properties of animals with progressive CKD. Male Cy/+ rats that develop autosomal dominant cystic kidney disease were treated with either vehicle or raloxifene for five weeks. They were assessed for changes in mineral metabolism and skeletal parameters (microCT, histology, whole bone mechanics, and material properties). Their normal littermates served as controls. Animals with CKD had significantly higher parathyroid hormone levels compared to normal controls as well as inferior structural and mechanical skeletal properties. Raloxifene treatment resulted in lower bone remodeling rates and higher cancellous bone volume in the rats with CKD. While it had little effect on cortical bone geometry it resulted in higher energy to fracture and modulus of toughness values than vehicle-treated rats with CKD, achieving levels equivalent to normal controls. Animals treated with raloxifene had superior tissue-level mechanical properties as assessed by nanoindentation and higher collagen D-periodic spacing as assessed by atomic force microscopy. Thus, raloxifene can positively impact whole bone mechanical properties in CKD through its impact on skeletal material properties. PMID:26489025

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among patients with prostate cancer

PubMed Central

Trump, Donald L.; Chadha, Manpreet K.; Sunga, Annette Y.; Fakih, Marwan G.; Ashraf, Umeer; Silliman, Carrie G.; Hollis, Bruce W.; Nesline, Mary K.; Tian, Lili; Tan, Wei; Johnson, Candace S.

2009-01-01

Objective To assess the frequency of vitamin D deficiency among men with prostate cancer, as considerable epidemiological, in vitro, in vivo and clinical data support an association between vitamin D deficiency and prostate cancer outcome. Patients, subjects and methods The study included 120 ambulatory men with recurrent prostate cancer and 50 with clinically localized prostate cancer who were evaluated and serum samples assayed for 25-OH vitamin D levels. Then 100 controls (both sexes), matched for age and season of serum sample, were chosen from a prospective serum banking protocol. The relationship between age, body mass index, disease stage, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, season and previous therapy on vitamin D status were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results The mean 25-OH vitamin D level was 25.9 ng/mL in those with recurrent disease, 27.5 ng/mL in men with clinically localized prostate cancer and 24.5 ng/mL in controls. The frequency of vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) and insufficiency (20–31 ng/mL) was 40% and 32% in men with recurrent prostate; 28% had vitamin D levels that were normal (32–100 ng/mL). Among men with localized prostate cancer, 18% were deficient, 50% were insufficient and 32% were normal. Among controls, 31% were deficient, 40% were insufficient and 29% were normal. Metastatic disease (P = 0.005) and season of blood sampling (winter/spring; P = 0.01) were associated with vitamin D deficiency in patients with prostate cancer, while age, race, performance status and body mass index were not. Conclusions Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were common among men with prostate cancer and apparently normal controls in the western New York region. PMID:19426195

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among patients with prostate cancer.

PubMed

Trump, Donald L; Chadha, Manpreet K; Sunga, Annette Y; Fakih, Marwan G; Ashraf, Umeer; Silliman, Carrie G; Hollis, Bruce W; Nesline, Mary K; Tian, Lili; Tan, Wei; Johnson, Candace S

2009-10-01

To assess the frequency of vitamin D deficiency among men with prostate cancer, as considerable epidemiological, in vitro, in vivo and clinical data support an association between vitamin D deficiency and prostate cancer outcome. The study included 120 ambulatory men with recurrent prostate cancer and 50 with clinically localized prostate cancer who were evaluated and serum samples assayed for 25-OH vitamin D levels. Then 100 controls (both sexes), matched for age and season of serum sample, were chosen from a prospective serum banking protocol. The relationship between age, body mass index, disease stage, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, season and previous therapy on vitamin D status were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses. The mean 25-OH vitamin D level was 25.9 ng/mL in those with recurrent disease, 27.5 ng/mL in men with clinically localized prostate cancer and 24.5 ng/mL in controls. The frequency of vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) and insufficiency (20-31 ng/mL) was 40% and 32% in men with recurrent prostate; 28% had vitamin D levels that were normal (32-100 ng/mL). Among men with localized prostate cancer, 18% were deficient, 50% were insufficient and 32% were normal. Among controls, 31% were deficient, 40% were insufficient and 29% were normal. Metastatic disease (P = 0.005) and season of blood sampling (winter/spring; P = 0.01) were associated with vitamin D deficiency in patients with prostate cancer, while age, race, performance status and body mass index were not. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were common among men with prostate cancer and apparently normal controls in the western New York region.

Aberrant expression of interleukin-22 and its targeting microRNAs in oral lichen planus: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Shen, Zhengyu; Du, Guanhuan; Zhou, Zengtong; Liu, Wei; Shi, Linjun; Xu, Hui

2016-08-01

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disease involving oral mucosa. Interleukin-22 (IL-22) as the signature cytokine of T helper 22 cells is increasingly recognized as a key regulator in various autoimmune diseases. Our previous study reported that IL-22 immunoexpression in OLP was significantly increased compared with the normal controls. The objective of this preliminary study was to compare the IL-22 expression levels in oral biopsies from patients with OLP (n = 50) against normal oral mucosa (n = 19) using RT-qPCR and Western blot, identify the potential targeting miRNAs of IL-22, and examine the miRNA expression levels in OLP. Interleukin-22 expression level in OLP was significantly increased compared with the normal controls. The Dual-Luciferase reporter assay system in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells demonstrated that miR-562 and miR-203 were the target miRNAs of IL-22, which was consistent with predictions from bioinformatics software analyses. Interestingly, miR-562 expression in OLP was significantly decreased, but miR-203 expression in OLP was significantly increased compared with the normal controls. This preliminary study for the first time reported that aberrant expression levels of miR-562 and miR-203 were associated with high expression of IL-22 and demonstrated the target relationship between miRNAs and IL-22 in HEK293 cells. Our data indicated that IL-22 and its targeting miRNAs contribute to the pathogenesis of OLP. Further studies are required to investigate the regulatory pathways of IL-22 and miR-562 and miR-203 in OLP. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Long-term outcome of macroprolactinomas.

PubMed

Képénékian, Lori; Cebula, Hélène; Castinetti, Frédéric; Graillon, Thomas; Brue, Thierry; Goichot, Bernard

2016-12-01

Management of macroprolactinomas has dramatically changed in recent decades, from surgical to medical treatment as first-line therapy, with the development of dopamine agonists (DA). But few data exist on the long-term outcome of these patients. Retrospective descriptive multicenter study of patients with macroprolactinoma followed for at least 5 years between 1973 and 2008 at the University Hospitals of Strasbourg and Marseille. Forty-eight patients were included with 27 men, hypopituitarism in 33.3% of all patients and mean serum prolactin (PRL) level at diagnosis 2218.2±4154.7μg/L. Among the patients, 58.3% received medical treatment, 25% had additional surgery and 12.5% surgery and radiotherapy. The mean follow-up duration was 196±100 months. At the end of follow-up, 10 patients (20.8%) were cured (i.e. normal PRL level and normal imaging, no symptoms and withdrawal of DA≥1 year), 33 (68.8%) were controlled (i.e. normal PRL level, normal or abnormal imaging, no symptoms, DA in progress) and 5 (10.4%) were uncontrolled. Uncontrolled patients had significant higher baseline PRL level (P=0.0412) and cabergoline cumulative dose (P=0.0065) compared to the controlled group. There was no increase in frequency of hypopituitarism. Clinically significant valvular heart disease was found in 2 patients but screening was not systematic. Macroprolactinoma is currently most often a chronic disease controlled with DA. However, uncertainty about the adverse effects associated with high cumulative doses and the lack of data on the prognosis at very long-term should incite to revisit current strategies, including the role of surgery combined to medical treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Attenuation of Diabetic Conditions by Sida rhombifolia in Moderately Diabetic Rats and Inability to Produce Similar Effects in Severely Diabetic in Rats

PubMed Central

Chaturvedi, Padmaja; Kwape, Tebogo Elvis

2015-01-01

Objectives: This study was done out to evaluate the effects of Sida rhombifolia methanol extract (SRM) on diabetes in moderately diabetic (MD) and severely diabetic (SD) Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: SRM was prepared by soaking the powdered plant material in 70% methanol and rota evaporating the methanol from the extract. Effective hypoglycemic doses were established by performing oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) in normal rats. Hourly effects of SRM on glucose were observed in the MD and the SD rats. Rats were grouped, five rats to a group, into normal control 1 (NC1), MD control 1 (MDC1), MD experimental 1 (MDE1), SD control 1 (SDC1), and SD experimental 1 (SDE1) groups. All rats in the control groups were administered 1 mL of distilled water (DW). The rats in the MDE1 and the SDE1 groups were administered SRM orally at 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight (BW), respectively, dissolved in 1 mL of DW. Blood was collected initially and at intervals of 1 hour for 6 hours to measure blood glucose. A similar experimental design was followed for the 30-day long-term trial. Finally, rats were sacrificed, and blood was collected to measure blood glucose, lipid profiles, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Results: OGTTs indicated that two doses (200 and 300 mg/kg BW) were effective hypoglycemic doses in normal rats. Both doses reduced glucose levels after 1 hour in the MDE1 and the SDE1 groups. A long-term trial of SRM in the MD group showed a reduced glucose level, a normal lipid profile, and normal GSH and TBARS levels. In SD rats, SRM had no statistically significant effects on these parameters. Normal weight was achieved in the MD rats, but the SD rats showed reduced BW. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that SRM has potential to alleviate the conditions of moderate diabetic, but not severe diabetes. PMID:26998385

Normal Morning Melanin-Concentrating Hormone Levels and No Association with Rapid Eye Movement or Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Parameters in Narcolepsy Type 1 and Type 2.

PubMed

Schrölkamp, Maren; Jennum, Poul J; Gammeltoft, Steen; Holm, Anja; Kornum, Birgitte R; Knudsen, Stine

2017-02-15

Other than hypocretin-1 (HCRT-1) deficiency in narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), the neurochemical imbalance of NT1 and narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) with normal HCRT-1 levels is largely unknown. The neuropeptide melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is mainly secreted during sleep and is involved in rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep regulation. Hypocretin neurons reciprocally interact with MCH neurons. We hypothesized that altered MCH secretion contributes to the symptoms and sleep abnormalities of narcolepsy and that this is reflected in morning cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) MCH levels, in contrast to previously reported normal evening/afternoon levels. Lumbar CSF and plasma were collected from 07:00 to 10:00 from 57 patients with narcolepsy (subtypes: 47 NT1; 10 NT2) diagnosed according to International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Third Edition (ICSD-3) and 20 healthy controls. HCRT-1 and MCH levels were quantified by radioimmunoassay and correlated with clinical symptoms, polysomnography (PSG), and Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) parameters. CSF and plasma MCH levels were not significantly different between narcolepsy patients regardless of ICSD-3 subtype, HCRT-1 levels, or compared to controls. CSF MCH and HCRT-1 levels were not significantly correlated. Multivariate regression models of CSF MCH levels, age, sex, and body mass index predicting clinical, PSG, and MSLT parameters did not reveal any significant associations to CSF MCH levels. Our study shows that MCH levels in CSF collected in the morning are normal in narcolepsy and not associated with the clinical symptoms, REM sleep abnormalities, nor number of muscle movements during REM or NREM sleep of the patients. We conclude that morning lumbar CSF MCH measurement is not an informative diagnostic marker for narcolepsy. © 2017 American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Guidance, navigation, and control subsystem for the EOS-AM spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linder, David M.; Tolek, Joseph T.; Lombardo, John

1992-01-01

This paper presents the preliminary design of the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) subsystem for the EOS-AM spacecraft and specifically focuses on the GN&C Normal Mode design. First, a brief description of the EOS-AM science mission, instruments, and system-level spacecraft design is provided. Next, an overview of the GN&C subsystem functional and performance requirements, hardware, and operating modes is presented. Then, the GN&C Normal Mode attitude determination, attitude control, and navigation systems are detailed. Finally, descriptions of the spacecraft's overall jitter performance and Safe Mode are provided.

Identification of suitable reference genes for hepatic microRNA quantitation.

PubMed

Lamba, Vishal; Ghodke-Puranik, Yogita; Guan, Weihua; Lamba, Jatinder K

2014-03-07

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short (~22 nt) endogenous RNAs that play important roles in regulating expression of a wide variety of genes involved in different cellular processes. Alterations in microRNA expression patterns have been associated with a number of human diseases. Accurate quantitation of microRNA levels is important for their use as biomarkers and in determining their functions. Real time PCR is the gold standard and the most frequently used technique for miRNA quantitation. Real time PCR data analysis includes normalizing the amplification data to suitable endogenous control/s to ensure that microRNA quantitation is not affected by the variability that is potentially introduced at different experimental steps. U6 (RNU6A) and RNU6B are two commonly used endogenous controls in microRNA quantitation. The present study was designed to investigate inter-individual variability and gender differences in hepatic microRNA expression as well as to identify the best endogenous control/s that could be used for normalization of real-time expression data in liver samples. We used Taqman based real time PCR to quantitate hepatic expression levels of 22 microRNAs along with U6 and RNU6B in 50 human livers samples (25 M, 25 F). To identify the best endogenous controls for use in data analysis, we evaluated the amplified candidates for their stability (least variability) in expression using two commonly used software programs: Normfinder and GeNormplus, Both Normfinder and GeNormplus identified U6 to be among the least stable of all the candidates analyzed, and RNU6B was also not among the top genes in stability. mir-152 and mir-23b were identified to be the two most stable candidates by both Normfinder and GeNormplus in our analysis, and were used as endogenous controls for normalization of hepatic miRNA levels. Measurements of microRNA stability indicate that U6 and RNU6B are not suitable for use as endogenous controls for normalizing microRNA relative quantitation data in hepatic tissue, and their use can led to possibly erroneous conclusions.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in children with ASD and their parents: a 3-year follow-up.

PubMed

Francis, K; Dougali, A; Sideri, K; Kroupis, C; Vasdekis, V; Dima, K; Douzenis, A

2018-05-01

Several lines of evidence point to a probable relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but studies have yielded inconsistent findings on the BDNF serum level in ASD. The study aimed to assess those levels in children with ASD and their families. BDNF serum levels were measured in 45 ASD children without intellectual disability (ID) and allergies, age 30-42 months and age-matched normal controls. BDNF serum levels in the parents of the ASD subjects were compared to normal controls. BDNF serum levels in the ASD subjects were followed up for 3 years and correlated with adaptive functioning changes. BDNF serum levels were measured to be lower in children with ASD and independent of all the major baseline characteristics of the subjects. Having a child with ASD raises the BDNF levels in parents comparing to controls. Prospectively, no correlation between the change of BDNF variables in time and the change of the Vineland scores was found. Our results contradict those from recent published meta-analyses with the age, the presence of ID and allergies being possible contributing factors. The parents' data indeed point to a role of BDNF in the pathophysiology of ASD. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The effect of ILLLI on peripheral blood SOD, MDA in psoriasis treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jing; Nie, Fan

2005-07-01

Objective: To research the effect of Intravascular low level laser irradiation (ILLLI) on the SOD,MDA in the treatment of psoriasis. Method :47 patients suffering from psoriasis from five groups were treated by Intravascular low level laser irradiation (power:4-5mw,1h per day, period of treatment: 10 days) .We checked the change of SOD,MDA peripheral blood in 10 normal people between pre and post treatment. Group A were treated by He-Ne laser combined with drug, group B were treated by semi-conductor laser combined with drug, group C were treated only by He-Ne laser, group D were treated only by semiconductor laser, group E were treated only by drug . Results: The levels of SOD in red cell of psoriatic patients from five groups after treatment were significantly lower than that of controlled group. The levels of SOD of them were significantly increased and nearly closed to that of controlled group; the levels of MDA in red cell of psoriatic patients from five groups after treatment were significantly higher than that of controlled group; the levels of MDA of them are decreased ,however, they were still not recovered to normal levels. Conclusions: ILLLI, both He-Ne laser and semiconductor laser, can activate SOD in psoriasis patients and enhance their ability of anti-oxidation.

Ghrelin plasma levels in patients with idiopathic short stature.

PubMed

Iñiguez, Germán; Román, Rossana; Youlton, Ronald; Cassorla, Fernando; Mericq, Verónica

2011-02-01

Novel molecular insights have suggested that ghrelin may be involved in the pathogenesis of some forms of short stature. Recently, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) mutations that segregate with short stature have been reported. To study plasma ghrelin levels in prepubertal patients with idiopathic short stature (ISS). Fasting total plasma ghrelin levels (radioimmunoassay) in 41 prepubertal patients with ISS (18 females, age 7.9 ± 0.5 years) compared with 42 age- and sex-matched controls (27 females, age 8.0 ± 0.3 years) with normal height. In a subset of 28 patients, the ghrelin receptor was sequenced. ISS patients exhibited a higher level of ghrelin (1,458 ± 137 vs. 935 ± 55 pg/ml, p < 0.01) and similar IGF-I levels (-0.66 ± 1.29 vs. -0.32 ± 0.78 SDS) compared to controls. Ten patients with ISS had ghrelin levels greater than +2 SDS compared to controls. These patients did not differ in height, BMI or IGF-I SDS compared to ISS patients with ghrelin levels within the normal range. Molecular analysis of GHSR did not show any mutations, but showed some polymorphisms. These results suggest that in ISS patients, short stature does not appear to be frequently caused by abnormalities in ghrelin signaling. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Uraemic hyperparathyroidism causes a reversible inflammatory process of aortic valve calcification in rats

PubMed Central

Shuvy, Mony; Abedat, Suzan; Beeri, Ronen; Danenberg, Haim D.; Planer, David; Ben-Dov, Iddo Z.; Meir, Karen; Sosna, Jacob; Lotan, Chaim

2008-01-01

Aims Renal failure is associated with aortic valve calcification (AVC). Our aim was to develop an animal model for exploring the pathophysiology and reversibility of AVC, utilizing rats with diet-induced kidney disease. Methods and results Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 23) were fed a phosphate-enriched, uraemia-inducing diet for 7 weeks followed by a normal diet for 2 weeks (‘diet group’). These rats were compared with normal controls (n = 10) and with uraemic controls fed with phosphate-depleted diet (‘low-phosphate group’, n = 10). Clinical investigations included serum creatinine, phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, echocardiography, and multislice computed tomography. Pathological examinations of the valves included histological characterization, Von Kossa staining, and antigen and gene expression analyses. Eight diet group rats were further assessed for reversibility of valve calcification following normalization of their kidney function. At 4 weeks, all diet group rats developed renal failure and hyperparathyroidism. At week 9, renal failure resolved with improvement in the hyperparathyroid state. Echocardiography demonstrated valve calcifications only in diet group rats. Tomographic calcium scores were significantly higher in the diet group compared with controls. Von Kossa stain in diet group valves revealed calcium deposits, positive staining for osteopontin, and CD68. Gene expression analyses revealed overexpression of osteoblast genes and nuclear factor κB activation. Valve calcification resolved after diet cessation in parallel with normalization of PTH levels. Resolution was associated with down-regulation of inflammation and osteoblastic features. Low-phosphate group rats developed kidney dysfunction similar to that of the diet group but with normal levels of PTH. Calcium scores and histology showed only minimal valve calcification. Conclusion We developed an animal model for AVC. The process is related to disturbed mineral metabolism. It is associated with inflammation and osteoblastic features. Furthermore, the process is reversible upon normalization of the mineral homeostasis. Thus, our model constitutes a convenient platform for studying AVC and potential remedies. PMID:18390899

Uraemic hyperparathyroidism causes a reversible inflammatory process of aortic valve calcification in rats.

PubMed

Shuvy, Mony; Abedat, Suzan; Beeri, Ronen; Danenberg, Haim D; Planer, David; Ben-Dov, Iddo Z; Meir, Karen; Sosna, Jacob; Lotan, Chaim

2008-08-01

Renal failure is associated with aortic valve calcification (AVC). Our aim was to develop an animal model for exploring the pathophysiology and reversibility of AVC, utilizing rats with diet-induced kidney disease. Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 23) were fed a phosphate-enriched, uraemia-inducing diet for 7 weeks followed by a normal diet for 2 weeks ('diet group'). These rats were compared with normal controls (n = 10) and with uraemic controls fed with phosphate-depleted diet ('low-phosphate group', n = 10). Clinical investigations included serum creatinine, phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, echocardiography, and multislice computed tomography. Pathological examinations of the valves included histological characterization, Von Kossa staining, and antigen and gene expression analyses. Eight diet group rats were further assessed for reversibility of valve calcification following normalization of their kidney function. At 4 weeks, all diet group rats developed renal failure and hyperparathyroidism. At week 9, renal failure resolved with improvement in the hyperparathyroid state. Echocardiography demonstrated valve calcifications only in diet group rats. Tomographic calcium scores were significantly higher in the diet group compared with controls. Von Kossa stain in diet group valves revealed calcium deposits, positive staining for osteopontin, and CD68. Gene expression analyses revealed overexpression of osteoblast genes and nuclear factor kappaB activation. Valve calcification resolved after diet cessation in parallel with normalization of PTH levels. Resolution was associated with down-regulation of inflammation and osteoblastic features. Low-phosphate group rats developed kidney dysfunction similar to that of the diet group but with normal levels of PTH. Calcium scores and histology showed only minimal valve calcification. We developed an animal model for AVC. The process is related to disturbed mineral metabolism. It is associated with inflammation and osteoblastic features. Furthermore, the process is reversible upon normalization of the mineral homeostasis. Thus, our model constitutes a convenient platform for studying AVC and potential remedies.

Cortisol production rates in subjects with suspected Cushing's syndrome: assessment by stable isotope dilution methodology and comparison to other diagnostic methods.

PubMed

Samuels, M H; Brandon, D D; Isabelle, L M; Cook, D M; Graham, K E; Purnell, J Q; Loriaux, D L

2000-01-01

It can be difficult to establish the diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome (CS) in patients with mild or nonspecific clinical and biochemical findings, because available diagnostic tests have limited predictive values. We hypothesized that measurement of 24-h cortisol production rates (CPRs) might be a more sensitive indicator of CS in such patients. We measured CPRs in 28 patients with suspected CS (but equivocal biochemical findings) and in 22 healthy control subjects, by infusing tracer amounts of deuterated cortisol, with simultaneous measurements of 24-h urine free cortisol (UFC) levels; and we frequently sampled serum cortisol levels. CPRs were calculated from the ratio of isotopic enrichment to isotopic dilution of cortisol measured by gas chromatography-negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry. Nine of the patients proved to have CS by surgery (CS-Yes), whereas 19 patients were determined not to have CS by biochemical testing (CS-No). Mean 24-h UFCs, nocturnal serum cortisol levels, and CPRs were higher in CS-Yes, compared with CS-No and normal subjects. However, one CS-Yes patient had a normal 24-h UFC, two had normal nocturnal serum cortisol levels, and two had normal 24-h CPRs. There was extensive overlap in all of the biochemical parameters between the CS-Yes and the CS-No groups. Thus, measurement of CPR does not seem to offer any diagnostic advantage over available tests for the diagnosis of CS. Patients with proven CS can have normal UFC levels, normal CPRs, or normal nocturnal cortisol levels, whereas patients not thought to have CS may have elevated levels of any one or more these parameters.

Comparison of serum Concentration of Se, Pb, Mg, Cu, Zn, between MS patients and healthy controls

PubMed Central

Alizadeh, Anahita; Mehrpour, Omid; Nikkhah, Karim; Bayat, Golnaz; Espandani, Mahsa; Golzari, Alireza; Jarahi, Lida; Foroughipour, Mohsen

2016-01-01

Introduction Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is defined as one of the inflammatory autoimmune disorders and is common. Its exact etiology is unclear. There are some evidences on the role of environmental factors in susceptible genetics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible role of Selenium, Zinc, Copper, Lead and Magnesium metals in Multiple Sclerosis patients. Methods In the present analytical cross-sectional study, 56 individuals including 26 patients and 30 healthy controls were enrolled in the evaluation. The serum level of Se, Zn, Cu, Pb were quantified in graphite furnace conditions and flame conditions by utilizing an atomic absorption Perkin Elmer spectrophotometer 3030. The serum levels of Mg were measured by auto analyzer 1500 BT. The mean level of minerals (Zn, Pb, Cu, Mg, Se) in serum samples were compared in both cases and controls. The mean level of minerals (Zn, Pb, Cu, Mg, Se) in serum samples were compared in both cases and controls by using independent-samples t-test for normal distribution and Mann-Whitney U test as a non-parametric test. All statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS 11.0. Results As well as the Zn, Cu, and Se, there was no significant difference between MS patients and healthy individuals in Pb concentrations (p-value = 0.11, 0.14, 0.32, 0.20 respectively) but the level of Mg was significantly different (p= 0.001). Conclusion All serum concentrations of Zn, Pb, Se, Cu in both groups were in normal ranges and there was no difference in MS patients compared with the healthy group who were matched in genetics. Blood level of Mg was significantly lower in MS patients. But it should be noted that even with the low level of serum magnesium in MS patients, this value is still in the normal range. PMID:27757186

A low glycemic index staple diet reduces postprandial glucose values in Asian women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Hu, Zhi-Geng; Tan, Rong-Shao; Jin, Di; Li, Wei; Zhou, Xiao-Yan

2014-12-01

A low glycemic index (GI) diet is beneficial for glucose control in patients with diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to investigate the influence of a low-GI diet on postprandial glucose levels in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Pregnant women with GDM were randomized to receive a normal diabetic control diet or a low-GI staple diet for 5 days. A low-GI staple food was used to replace rice in lunch and dinner for the low-GI staple diet group, whereas the total energy and carbohydrate levels remained equal in both groups. Fasting and postprandial glucose levels were determined daily. A total of 140 pregnant women with GDM were included in the study, including 66 in the low-GI staple diet group and 74 in the normal diabetic diet control group. No differences existed in baseline characteristics between the 2 groups (all P > 0.05). After dietary intervention, glucose levels were significantly reduced in the low-GI staple diet group (all P < 0.01) and the control group (all P < 0.008). Postintervention glucose values after breakfast, lunch, and dinner were significantly reduced in the treatment group compared with those in the control group (all P < 0.05). The percentage changes from baseline of all glucose values were significantly greater in the treatment group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). A low-GI staple diet significantly reduces postprandial glucose levels in women with GDM.

Relationship between Intracellular Magnesium Level, Lung Function, and Level of Asthma Control in Children with Chronic Bronchial Asthma.

PubMed

Sein, Htwe Htwe; Whye Lian, Cheah; Juan Loong, Kok; Sl Ng, Josephine; Rahardjai, Andy; Sultan, Mohamed Ameenudeen

2014-01-01

This study aimed to determine the intracellular (red blood cell (RBC)) magnesium levels in children with chronic bronchial asthma and to determine the relationship between the magnesium level and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), type of asthma treatment, and level of asthma control. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Paediatric Clinic, Sarawak General Hospital. A total of 100 children, aged 6-12 years with chronic bronchial asthma, were recruited according to the study criteria. Venous blood samples were obtained to measure the intracellular (RBC) magnesium level using the GBC Avanta Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Mean age was 8.57 (SD 1.18) years, and 63% of the participants were male. Mean duration of asthma was 62.2 (SD 32.3) months. A normal intracellular magnesium level was found in 95% of the participants, with a mean of 2.27 (SD 0.33) mmol/L. Two-thirds of the participants had a normal peak flow expiratory rate (> 80% of predicted value). About 85% were using both reliever and controller. Almost half of the participants (49%) had chronic asthma that was well-controlled. No significant relationship was found between magnesium level and age (r = -0.089, P = 0.379), gender (t = 0.64, P = 0.52), duration of asthma (r = -0.03, P = 0.74), PEFR (t = 0.41, P = 0.68), current level of asthma control (t = 0.02, P = 0.97), and current treatment (t = 0.414, P = 0.680). There was no significant intracellular magnesium deficiency in children with chronic bronchial asthma. There was no significant relationship between therapeutic medications used for treatment of children with chronic asthma and intracellular magnesium levels.

Cushing`s disease: Fibrinogen and D-dimer levels fail to normalize despite early postoperative remission - a prospective, controlled study.

PubMed

Witek, Przemysław; Zieliński, Grzegorz; Szamotulska, Katarzyna; Witek, Joanna; Kamiński, Grzegorz

2016-01-01

Effective transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for Cushing`s disease (CD) normalizes cortisol levels and reduces complications of hypercortisolism. However, there is evidence of increased cardiovascular morbidity even after successful surgery. A prospective, controlled study on the dynamics of fibrinogen and D-dimer levels with a six-month follow-up after an effective TSS for CD. Forty patients with CD and forty healthy age- and sex-matched subjects were included. We assessed ACTH, urinary and serum cortisol, and fibrinogen and D-dimer levels before TSS and during follow-up. Baseline BMI (P < 0.001), fibrinogen (P = 0.002), and D-dimer (P = 0.001) levels in CD patients were significantly higher than those in healthy controls. High fibrinogen levels in the CD group were independent of BMI, and were positively associated with hsCRP (rS = 0.61, P < 0.001) and arterial hypertension (P = 0.029). After the six-month follow-up we confirmed a sustained difference between the remission group and controls in fibrinogen and D-dimer levels (P = 0.001 and P = 0.017, respectively). Despite early biochemical remission of CD the levels of fibrinogen and D-dimer failed to decrease. This probably contributes to the high risk of thrombotic events and indicates the need for a close follow-up for signs of thromboembolic and cardiovascular complications in patients with early CD remission. (Endokrynol Pol 2016; 67 (3): 283-291).

Physiological levels of blood coagulation factors IX and X control coagulation kinetics in an in vitro model of circulating tissue factor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tormoen, Garth W.; Khader, Ayesha; Gruber, András; McCarty, Owen J. T.

2013-06-01

Thrombosis significantly contributes to cancer morbidity and mortality. The mechanism behind thrombosis in cancer may be circulating tissue factor (TF), as levels of circulating TF are associated with thrombosis. However, circulating TF antigen level alone has failed to predict thrombosis in patients with cancer. We hypothesize that coagulation factor levels regulate the kinetics of circulating TF-induced thrombosis. Coagulation kinetics were measured as a function of individual coagulation factor levels and TF particle concentration. Clotting times increased when pooled plasma was mixed at or above a ratio of 4:6 with PBS. Clotting times increased when pooled plasma was mixed at or above a ratio of 8:2 with factor VII-depleted plasma, 7:3 with factor IX- or factor X-depleted plasmas, or 2:8 with factor II-, V- or VIII-depleted plasmas. Addition of coagulation factors VII, X, IX, V and II to depleted plasmas shortened clotting and enzyme initiation times, and increased enzyme generation rates in a concentration-dependent manner. Only additions of factors IX and X from low-normal to high-normal levels shortened clotting times and increased enzyme generation rates. Our results demonstrate that coagulation kinetics for TF particles are controlled by factor IX and X levels within the normal physiological range. We hypothesize that individual patient factor IX and X levels may be prognostic for susceptibility to circulating TF-induced thrombosis.

Variance in total levels of phospholipase C zeta (PLC-ζ) in human sperm may limit the applicability of quantitative immunofluorescent analysis as a diagnostic indicator of oocyte activation capability.

PubMed

Kashir, Junaid; Jones, Celine; Mounce, Ginny; Ramadan, Walaa M; Lemmon, Bernadette; Heindryckx, Bjorn; de Sutter, Petra; Parrington, John; Turner, Karen; Child, Tim; McVeigh, Enda; Coward, Kevin

2013-01-01

To examine whether similar levels of phospholipase C zeta (PLC-ζ) protein are present in sperm from men whose ejaculates resulted in normal oocyte activation, and to examine whether a predominant pattern of PLC-ζ localization is linked to normal oocyte activation ability. Laboratory study. University laboratory. Control subjects (men with proven oocyte activation capacity; n = 16) and men whose sperm resulted in recurrent intracytoplasmic sperm injection failure (oocyte activation deficient [OAD]; n = 5). Quantitative immunofluorescent analysis of PLC-ζ protein in human sperm. Total levels of PLC-ζ fluorescence, proportions of sperm exhibiting PLC-ζ immunoreactivity, and proportions of PLC-ζ localization patterns in sperm from control and OAD men. Sperm from control subjects presented a significantly higher proportion of sperm exhibiting PLC-ζ immunofluorescence compared with infertile men diagnosed with OAD (82.6% and 27.4%, respectively). Total levels of PLC-ζ in sperm from individual control and OAD patients exhibited significant variance, with sperm from 10 out of 16 (62.5%) exhibiting levels similar to OAD samples. Predominant PLC-ζ localization patterns varied between control and OAD samples with no predictable or consistent pattern. The results indicate that sperm from control men exhibited significant variance in total levels of PLC-ζ protein, as well as significant variance in the predominant localization pattern. Such variance may hinder the diagnostic application of quantitative PLC-ζ immunofluorescent analysis. Copyright © 2013 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased androgen response to follicle-stimulating hormone administration in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Wachs, Deborah S; Coffler, Mickey S; Malcom, Pamela J; Shimasaki, Shunichi; Chang, R Jeffrey

2008-05-01

In women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), excess ovarian androgen production is driven by increased LH secretion. Studies conducted in animals suggest that the granulosa cell may influence LH-stimulated theca cell androgen production. The objective of this study was to determine whether FSH enhances androgen production in women with PCOS compared with that of normal women. A prospective study was conducted to compare androgen production in response to FSH in two groups of women. The study was conducted in a General Clinical Research Center in a tertiary academic medical center. Women with PCOS, 18-35 yr (n = 20), and normal ovulatory controls, 18-35 yr (n = 10), were recruited for study. Serial blood samples were obtained over a 24-h period after an iv injection of recombinant human FSH (150 IU). The main outcome measures were serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (T), and inhibin B (Inh B) responses after FSH administration. Basal serum 17-OHP, A, and T levels were markedly increased in women with PCOS compared with that observed in normal women. Basal DHEA and Inh B levels were similar to those of normal controls. After FSH injection, PCOS women demonstrated enhanced production of 17-OHP, A, DHEA, and Inh B, whereas in normal women no increases were observed. T levels declined slightly in both groups. These findings provide evidence that, in PCOS women, theca cell androgen production is enhanced by FSH administration and suggest a granulosa-theca cell paracrine mechanism.

Association of Lead Levels and Cerebral Palsy

PubMed Central

Bansal, Neha; Aggarwal, Anju; Faridi, M. M. A.; Sharma, Tusha; Baneerjee, B. D.

2017-01-01

Background: Cerebral palsy is a common motor disability in childhood. Raised lead levels affect cognition. Children with cerebral palsy may have raised lead levels, further impairing their residual cognitive motor and behavioral abilities. Environmental exposure and abnormal eating habits may lead to increased lead levels. Aims and Objectives: To measure blood lead levels in children with cerebral palsy and compare them with healthy neurologically normal children. To correlate blood lead levels with environmental factors. Material and Methods: Design: Prospective case-control study. Setting: Tertiary care hospital. Participants: Cases comprised 34 children with cerebral palsy, and controls comprised 34 neurologically normal, age- and sex-matched children. Methods: Clinical and demographic details were recorded as per proforma. Detailed environmental history was recorded to know the source of exposure to lead. These children were investigated and treated as per protocol. Venous blood was collected in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid vials for analysis of blood lead levels. Lead levels were estimated by Schimadzu Flame AA-6800 (atomic absorption spectrophotometer). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 17. P < .05 was taken as significant. Results: Mean blood lead levels were 9.20 ± 8.31 µg/dL in cerebral palsy cases and 2.89 ± 3.04 µg/dL in their controls (P < .001). Among children with cerebral palsy, 19 (55.88%) children had blood lead levels ≥5 µg/dL. Lead levels in children with pica were 12.33 ± 10.02 µg/dL in comparison to children with no history of pica, 6.70 ± 4.60 µg/dL (P = .029). No correlation was found between hemoglobin and blood lead levels in cases and controls. Conclusion: In our study, blood lead levels are raised in children with cerebral palsy. However, further studies are required to show effects of raised levels in these children. PMID:28491920

Reversibility of electrophysiological changes induced by chronic high-altitude hypoxia in adult rat heart.

PubMed

Chouabe, C; Amsellem, J; Espinosa, L; Ribaux, P; Blaineau, S; Mégas, P; Bonvallet, R

2002-04-01

Recent studies indicate that regression of left ventricular hypertrophy normalizes membrane ionic current abnormalities. This work was designed to determine whether regression of right ventricular hypertrophy induced by permanent high-altitude exposure (4,500 m, 20 days) in adult rats also normalizes changes of ventricular myocyte electrophysiology. According to the current data, prolonged action potential, decreased transient outward current density, and increased inward sodium/calcium exchange current density normalized 20 days after the end of altitude exposure, whereas right ventricular hypertrophy evidenced by both the right ventricular weight-to-heart weight ratio and the right ventricular free wall thickness measurement normalized 40 days after the end of altitude exposure. This morphological normalization occurred at both the level of muscular tissue, as shown by the decrease toward control values of some myocyte parameters (perimeter, capacitance, and width), and the level of the interstitial collagenous connective tissue. In the chronic high-altitude hypoxia model, the regression of right ventricular hypertrophy would not be a prerequisite for normalization of ventricular electrophysiological abnormalities.

PAF levels and PAF-AH activities in placentas from normal and preeclamptic pregnancies.

PubMed

Gu, Y; Burlison, S A; Wang, Y

2006-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine: (1) platelet-activating factor (PAF) levels and PAF-acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) activities in normal and preeclamptic placentas; (2) lipid peroxide production by placental tissues stimulated with PAF. Placentas were obtained immediately after delivery from normal and preeclamptic pregnancies. Tissue pieces were snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -70 degrees C. One gram of tissue from each placenta was used for PAF extraction and for total RNA isolation. PAF was measured by PAF [3H] scintillation proximity assay (SPA) system. Trophoblast PAF-AH activity was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). mRNA expression for PAF receptor was assessed by RNase protection assay (RPA). Normal placental explants were incubated with PAF at concentrations of 1 and 10 microg/ml for 48 h. Lipid peroxide productions of 8-isoprostane and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by ELISA and thiobarbituric acid reaction, respectively. Data were presented as mean+/-SE and analyzed by nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test and ANOVA. A p level less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. (1) The mean tissue level for PAF was elevated, but not statistically different, in preeclamptic (n=7) than in normal (n=8) placentas, 6.45+/-1.05 versus 4.47+/-0.60 ng/g, p=0.42. (2) PAF-AH activity was higher in trophoblasts from preeclamptic (n=7) placentas than that in trophoblasts from normal (n=8) placentas, 0.69+/-0.16 versus 0.38+/-0.03 micromol/min/microg protein, p<0.05. (3) The relative mRNA expression for PAF receptor was not different between normal (0.70+/-0.08) and preeclamptic (0.76+/-0.13) placental tissues, p=0.60. (4) Productions of 8-isoprostane and MDA were not increased in tissues with PAF in culture, 8-isoprostane: 0.37+/-0.09 ng/mg (control) versus 0.32+/-0.09 ng/mg (1 microg/ml) and 0.37+/-0.07 ng/mg (10 microg/ml), p>0.5; MDA: 0.62+/-0.05 nmol/mg (control) versus 0.68+/-0.04 nmol/mg (1 microg/ml) and 0.69+/-0.03 nmol/mg (10 microg/ml), p>0.5. Increased PAF-AH activity in trophoblasts may be a compensatory effect to control PAF level in the preeclamptic placenta. The co-existence of PAF-AH and PAF receptor in trophoblasts suggests an autocrine regulation of PAF in these cells to limit PAF and its metabolites within the placenta.

Extensions, Validation, and Clinical Applications of a Feedback Control System Simulator of the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis

PubMed Central

Samuels, Mary; DiStefano, Joseph J.

2008-01-01

Background We upgraded our recent feedback control system (FBCS) simulation model of human thyroid hormone (TH) regulation to include explicit representation of hypothalamic and pituitary dynamics, and updated TH distribution and elimination (D&E) parameters. This new model greatly expands the range of clinical and basic science scenarios explorable by computer simulation. Methods We quantified the model from pharmacokinetic (PK) and physiological human data and validated it comparatively against several independent clinical data sets. We then explored three contemporary clinical issues with the new model: combined triiodothyronine (T3)/thyroxine (T4) versus T4-only treatment, parenteral levothyroxine (L-T4) administration, and central hypothyroidism. Results Combined T3/T4 therapy—In thyroidectomized patients, the L-T4–only replacement doses needed to normalize plasma T3 or average tissue T3 were 145 μg L-T4/day or 165 μgL-T4/day, respectively. The combined T4 + T3 dosing needed to normalize both plasma and tissue T3 levels was 105 μg L-T4 + 9 μgT3 per day. For all three regimens, simulated mean steady-state plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4 was within normal ranges (TSH: 0.5–5 mU/L; T4: 5–12 μg/dL; T3: 0.8–1.9 ng/mL). Parenteral T4 administration—800 μg weekly or 400 μg twice weekly normalized average tissue T3 levels both for subcutaneous (SC) and intramuscular (IM) routes of administration. TSH, T3, and T4 levels were maintained within normal ranges for all four of these dosing schemes (1× vs. 2× weekly, SC vs. IM). Central hypothyroidism—We simulated steady-state plasma T3,T4, and TSH concentrations in response to varying degrees of central hypothyroidism, reducing TSH secretion from 50% down to 0.1% of normal. Surprisingly, TSH, T3, and T4 plasma concentrations remained within normal ranges for TSH secretion as low as 25% of normal. Conclusions Combined T3/T4 treatment—Simulated standard L-T4–only therapy was sufficient to renormalize average tissue T3 levels and maintain normal TSH, T3, and T4 plasma levels, supporting adequacy of standard L-T4–only treatment. Parenteral T4 administration—TSH, T3, and T4 levels were maintained within normal ranges for all four of these dosing schemes (1× vs. 2× weekly, SC vs. IM), supporting these therapeutic alternatives for patients with compromised L-T4 gut absorption. Central hypothyroidism—These results highlight how highly nonlinear feedback in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis acts to maintain normal hormone levels, even with severely reduced TSH secretion. PMID:18844475

Heart rate variability in normal-weight patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Kilit, Celal; Paşalı Kilit, Türkan

2017-05-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease closely related to several risk factors of cardiovascular disease. Obese women with PCOS show altered autonomic modulation. The results of studies investigating cardiac autonomic functions of normal-weight women with PCOS are conflicting. The aim of the study was to assess the reactivity of cardiac sympathovagal balance in normal-weight women with PCOS by heart rate variability analysis. We examined the heart rate variability in 60 normal-weight women with PCOS and compared them with that in 60 age-matched healthy women having a similar metabolic profile. Time and frequency domain parameters of heart rate variability were analyzed based on 5-min-long continuous electrocardiography recordings for the following 3 periods: (1) during rest in supine position, (2) during controlled breathing, and (3) during isometric handgrip exercise. Time and frequency domain parameters of heart rate variability for the 3 periods assessed were similar in the two groups. Although modified Ferriman-Gallwey score and serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels were significantly higher in women with PCOS, homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was not different the between the PCOS and control groups. There were no significant correlations between serum testosterone levels and heart rate variability parameters among the study population. The findings of this study suggest that the reactivity of cardiac sympathovagal balance is not altered in normal-weight women with PCOS having a normal HOMA-IR.

The Effect of Tinnitus on Listening Effort in Normal-Hearing Young Adults: A Preliminary Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Degeest, Sofie; Keppler, Hannah; Corthals, Paul

2017-01-01

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic tinnitus on listening effort. Method: Thirteen normal-hearing young adults with chronic tinnitus were matched with a control group for age, gender, hearing thresholds, and educational level. A dual-task paradigm was used to evaluate listening effort in different…

Transcription profiling using RNA-Seq demonstrates expression differences in the body walls of juvenile albino and normal sea cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Deyou; Yang, Hongsheng; Sun, Lina; Chen, Muyan

2014-01-01

Sea cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus are one of the most important aquaculture species in China. Their normal body color is black to fit their surroundings. Wild albinos are rare and hard to breed. To understand the differences between albino and normal (control) sea cucumbers at the transcriptional level, we sequenced the transcriptomes in their body-wall tissues using RNA-Seq high-throughput sequencing. Approximately 4.876 million (M) and 4.884 M 200-nucleotide-long cDNA reads were produced in the cDNA libraries derived from the body walls of albino and control samples, respectively. A total of 9 561 (46.89%) putative genes were identified from among the RNA-Seq reads in both libraries. After filtering, 837 significantly differentially regulated genes were identified in the albino library compared with in the control library, and 3.6% of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found to have changed those more than five-fold. The expression levels of 10 DEGs were checked by real-time PCR and the results were in full accord with the RNA-Seq expression trends, although the amplitude of the differences in expression levels was lower in all cases. A series of pathways were significantly enriched for the DEGs. These pathways were closely related to phagocytosis, the complement and coagulation cascades, apoptosis-related diseases, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and cell adhesion. The differences in gene expression and enriched pathways between the albino and control sea cucumbers offer control targets for cultivating excellent albino A. japonicus strains in the future.

Distinct expression patterns of the E3 ligase SIAH-1 and its partner Kid/KIF22 in normal tissues and in the breast tumoral processes

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

SIAH proteins are the human members of an highly conserved family of E3 ubiquitin ligases. Several data suggest that SIAH proteins may have a role in tumor suppression and apoptosis. Previously, we reported that SIAH-1 induces the degradation of Kid (KIF22), a chromokinesin protein implicated in the normal progression of mitosis and meiosis, by the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. In human breast cancer cells stably transfected with SIAH-1, Kid/KIF22 protein level was markedly reduced whereas, the Kid/KIF22 mRNA level was increased. This interaction has been further elucidated through analyzing SIAH and Kid/KIF22 expression in both paired normal and tumor tissues and cell lines. It was observed that SIAH-1 protein is widely expressed in different normal tissues, and in cells lines but showing some differences in western blotting profiles. Immunofluorescence microscopy shows that the intracellular distribution of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 appears to be modified in human tumor tissues compared to normal controls. When mRNA expression of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 was analyzed by real-time PCR in normal and cancer breast tissues from the same patient, a large variation in the number of mRNA copies was detected between the different samples. In most cases, SIAH-1 mRNA is decreased in tumor tissues compared to their normal counterparts. Interestingly, in all breast tumor tissues analyzed, variations in the Kid/KIF22 mRNA levels mirrored those seen with SIAH-1 mRNAs. This concerted variation of SIAH-1 and Kid/KIF22 messengers suggests the existence of an additional level of control than the previously described protein-protein interaction and protein stability regulation. Our observations also underline the need to re-evaluate the results of gene expression obtained by qRT-PCR and relate it to the protein expression and cellular localization when matched normal and tumoral tissues are analyzed. PMID:20144232

Hepatitis B virus inhibits the in vivo and in vitro synthesis and secretion of apolipoprotein C3.

PubMed

Zhu, Chengliang; Zhu, Hengcheng; Song, Hui; Xu, Limin; Li, Longxuan; Liu, Fang; Liu, Xinghui

2017-11-13

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the body can damage liver cells and cause disorders in blood lipid metabolism. Apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3) plays an important role in the regulation of lipid metabolism, but no study on the HBV regulation of ApoC3 has been reported. This purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of HBV on ApoC3 expression and its regulatory mechanism. The expression levels of ApoC3 mRNA and protein in the human hepatoma cell lines HepG2 and HepG2.2.15 were determined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. The HepG2 cells were co-transfected with the ApoC3 gene promoter and either HBV-infected clone pHBV1.3 or its individual genes. The changes in luciferase activity were assayed. The expression levels of ApoC3 mRNA and protein were determined using RT-qPCR and Western blot. The content of ApoC3 in the supernatant of the cultured cells was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The sera were collected from 149 patients with HBV infection and 102 healthy subjects at physical examination as the normal controls. The serological levels of ApoC3 in the HBV group and the normal control group were determined using ELISA. The contents of serum triglyceride (TG) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) in the HBV patients and the normal control were determined using an automatic biochemical analyser. The expression levels of ApoC3 mRNA and protein were lower in the HepG2.2.15 cells than in the HepG2 cells. pHBV1.3 and its X gene could inhibit the activity of the ApoC3 promoter and its mRNA and protein expression. The serum levels of ApoC3, VLDL and TG were 65.39 ± 7.48 μg/ml, 1.24 ± 0.49 mmol/L, and 0.46 ± 0.10 mmol/L in the HBV patients and 41.02 ± 6.88 μg/ml, 0.76 ± 0.21 mmol/L, 0.29 ± 0.05 mmol/L in the normal controls, respectively, statistical analysis revealed significantly lower serum levels of ApoC3, VLDL and TG in HBV patients than in the normal controls (P < 0.05). HBV can inhibit the in vivo and in vitro synthesis and secretion of ApoC3.

Increased leptin levels in preeclampsia: associations with BMI, estrogen and SHBG levels.

PubMed

Acromite, Michael; Ziotopoulou, Mary; Orlova, Christine; Mantzoros, Christos

2004-01-01

Leptin is secreted mainly by the white adipose tissue but is also synthesized in several non-adipose tissue organs including the placenta. Serum leptin levels are increased in normal pregnancies and are higher in preeclamptic than normal pregnant women. There is, however, a lack of empirical evidence of an independent association of serum leptin levels and preeclamsia. We have studied cross-sectionally 18 3rd trimester preeclamptic women, 28 3rd trimester and 30 2nd trimester control women to confirm the reported increase of serum leptin in preeclampsia and to assess whether elevated leptin levels in preeclampsia increase the variance explained by body mass index (BMI), androgens, estrogens and/or sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Anthropometric, demographic and hormonal data were analyzed using linear and logistic regression models. Leptin is significantly increased in preeclampsia by univariate analysis, but use of multivariate analysis indicates that the elevated leptin levels are not associated with preeclampsia independently from BMI, estrogens and SHBG. This study confirms that leptin levels are higher in women with preeclampsia than in controls and demonstrates that serum leptin levels do not add to the prediction of preeclampsia after accounting for BMI, estrogen and SHBG levels of preeclamptic women.

Association of IL-21 cytokine with severity of primary Sjögren syndrome dry eye.

PubMed

Lim, Sung A; Nam, Doo Hyun; Lee, Jee Hye; Kwok, Seung-Ki; Park, Sung-Hwan; Chung, So-Hyang

2015-03-01

IL-21 plays an important role in primary Sjögren syndrome (SS) pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate IL-21 expression in tears and the conjunctiva and to analyze the impact of IL-21 on primary SS dry eyes. Eighty subjects were enrolled in this study: 30 patients with primary SS dry eye (30 eyes); 30 patients with non-SS dry eye (30 eyes), and 20 normal controls. Tear IL-21 levels were measured by flow cytometry, and IL-21 gene expression in the conjunctiva from impression cytology was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Ocular Surface Disease Index, tear film breakup time, Schirmer I test, and ocular surface staining scores were obtained for all patients. Primary SS dry eyes had significantly higher tear IL-21 levels than non-SS dry eyes and normal controls (P < 0.01). In addition, IL-21 gene expression in the conjunctiva was also higher in primary SS dry eyes than in non-SS dry eyes and normal controls (P < 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in IL-21 expression in tears and the conjunctiva between non-SS dry eyes and controls. The tear IL-21 level was significantly correlated with ocular surface stain scores (r = 0.54, P < 0.01) and Schirmer I test values (r = -0.23, P < 0.05) in primary SS dry eyes. Our findings suggest that severity of primary SS dry eye is associated with IL-21.

Platelet Serotonin, A Possible Marker for Familial Autism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piven, Joseph; And Others

1991-01-01

Platelet serotonin (5HT) levels of 5 autistic subjects (ages 16-37) who had siblings with either autism or pervasive developmental disorder were significantly higher than levels of 23 autistic subjects without affected siblings. Autistic subjects without affected siblings had 5HT levels significantly higher than 10 normal controls. Sex, age, and…

Dysregulation of glucose metabolism even in Chinese PCOS women with normal glucose tolerance.

PubMed

Li, Weiping; Li, Qifu

2012-01-01

To clarify the necessity of improving glucose metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women as early as possible, 111 PCOS women with normal glucose tolerance and 92 healthy age-matched controls were recruited to investigate glucose levels distribution, insulin sensitivity and β cell function. 91 PCOS women and 33 controls underwent hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp to assess their insulin sensitivity, which was expressed as M value. β cell function was estimated by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)-β index after adjusting insulin sensitivity (HOMA-βad index). Compared with lean controls, lean PCOS women had similar fasting plasma glucose (FPG), higher postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) (6.03±1.05 vs. 5.44±0.97 mmol/L, P<0.05), lower M value but similar HOMA-βad index, while overweight/obese PCOS women had higher levels of both FPG (5.24±0.58 vs. 4.90±0.39, P<0.05) and PPG (6.15±0.84 vs. 5.44±0.97 mmol/L, P<0.05), and lower levels of both M value and HOMA-βad index. Linear regression and ROC analysis found BMI was independently associated with M value and HOMA-βad index in PCOS women separately, and the cutoff of BMI indicating impaired β cell function of PCOS women was 25.545kg/m². In conclusion, insulin resistance and dysregulation of glucose metabolism were common in Chinese PCOS women with normal glucose tolerance. BMI ≥ 25.545kg/m² indicated impaired β cell function in PCOS women with normal glucose tolerance.

Repetition priming of words and nonwords in Alzheimer's disease and normal aging

PubMed Central

Ober, Beth A.; Shenaut, Gregory K.

2014-01-01

Objective This study examines the magnitude and direction of nonword and word lexical decision repetition priming effects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and normal aging, focusing specifically on the negative priming effect sometimes observed with repeated nonwords. Method Probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients (30), elderly normal controls (34), and young normal controls (49) participated in a repetition priming experiment using low-frequency words and word-like nonwords with a letter-level orthographic orienting task at study followed by a lexical decision test phase. Results Although participants' reaction times were longer in AD compared to elderly normal, and elderly normal compared to young normal, the repetition priming effect and the degree to which the repetition priming effect was reversed for nonwords compared to words was unaffected by AD or normal aging. Conclusion AD patients, like young and elderly normal participants, are able to modify (in the case of words) and create (in the case of nonwords) long-term memory traces for lexical stimuli, based on a single orthographic processing trial. The nonword repetition results are discussed from the perspective of new vocabulary learning commencing with a provisional lexical memory trace created after orthographic encoding of a novel word-like letter string. PMID:25000325

Chloride-dependency of amyloid beta protein-induced enhancement of glutamate neurotoxicity in cultured rat hippocampal neurons.

PubMed

Zhang, Nan-Yan; Kitagawa, Kaori; Wu, Bo; Xiong, Zheng-Mei; Otani, Hitomi; Inagaki, Chiyoko

2006-05-15

In our previous studies, pathophysiological concentrations of amyloid-beta (Abeta) proteins increased intracellular Cl(-) concentration ([Cl(-)]i) and enhanced glutamate neurotoxicity in primary cultured neurons, suggesting Cl(-)-dependent changes in glutamate signaling. To test this possibility, we examined the effects of isethionate-replaced low Cl(-) medium on the Abeta-induced enhancement of glutamate neurotoxicity in the primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons. In a normal Cl(-) (135 mM) medium, treatment with 10 nM Abeta25-35 for 2 days increased neuronal [Cl(-)]i to a level three times higher than that of control as assayed using a Cl(-)-sensitive fluorescent dye, while in a low Cl(-) (16 mM) medium such an Abeta25-35-induced increase in [Cl(-)]i was not observed. The Abeta treatment aggravated glutamate neurotoxicity in a normal Cl(-) medium as measured by mitochondrial reducing activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, while in a low Cl(-) medium the Abeta treatment did not enhance glutamate toxicity. Upon such Abeta plus glutamate treatment under a normal Cl(-) condition, activated anti-apoptotic molecule Akt (Akt-pS473) level monitored by Western blot significantly decreased to 74% of control. Under a low Cl(-) condition, a resting Akt-pS473 level was higher than that under a normal Cl(-) condition and did not significantly change upon Abeta plus glutamate treatment. Tyrosine phosphorylation levels of 110 and 60 kDa proteins (pp110 and pp60) increased upon Abeta plus glutamate treatment under a normal Cl(-), but not low Cl(-), condition. These findings indicated that Abeta-induced enhancement of glutamate neurotoxicity is Cl(-)-dependent. Chloride-sensitive Akt pathway and tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins (pp110 and pp60) may be involved in this process.

Place of cabergoline in acromegaly: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Sandret, Laure; Maison, Patrick; Chanson, Philippe

2011-05-01

Cabergoline is widely considered to be poorly effective in acromegaly. The aim of this study was to obtain a more accurate picture of the efficacy of cabergoline in acromegaly, both alone and in combination with somatostatin analogs. We systematically reviewed all trials of cabergoline therapy for acromegaly published up to 2009 in four databases (PubMed, Pascal, Embase, and Google Scholar). We identified 15 studies (11 prospective) with a total of 237 patients; none were randomized or placebo-controlled. A meta-analysis was conducted on individual data (n = 227). Cabergoline was used alone in nine studies. Fifty-one (34%) of the 149 patients achieved normal IGF-I levels. In multivariate analysis, the decline in IGF-I was related to the baseline IGF-I concentration (β = 1.16; P <0.001), treatment duration (β = 0.28; P < 0.001), and baseline prolactin concentration (β = -0.18; P = 0.01), and with a trend toward a relation with the cabergoline dose (β = 0.38; P =0.07). In five studies, cabergoline was added to ongoing somatostatin analog treatment that had failed to normalize IGF-I. Forty patients (52%) achieved normal IGF-I levels. The change in IGF-I was significantly related to the baseline IGF-I level (β = 0.74; P < 0.001) but not to the dose of cabergoline, the duration of treatment, or the baseline prolactin concentration. This meta-analysis suggests that cabergoline single-agent therapy normalizes IGF-I levels in one third of patients with acromegaly. When a somatostatin analog fails to control acromegaly, cabergoline adjunction normalizes IGF-I in about 50% of cases. This effect may occur even in patients with normoprolactinemia.

The effect of labyrinthectomy on postural control of upside-down swimming catfish, Synodontis nigriventris, under pseudomicrogravity.

PubMed

Ohnishi, K; Yamamoto, T; Takahashi, A; Tanaka, H; Koyama, M; Ohnishi, T

1999-08-01

The catfish (Synodontis nigriventris) has a unique habitat of keeping an upside-down posture under normal gravity. We examined its postural control under pseudomicrogravity generated artificially, and the effect of unilateral labyrinthectomy on the postural control. The stable swimming posture under pseudomicrogravity was observed in the upside-down swimming catfish but not in the catfish (Corydoras paleatus), which has normal swimming habitat. Furthermore, although S. nigriventris but not C. paleatus could keep the stable swimming posture under normal gravity condition after unilateral labyrinthectomy, the labyrinthectomized fishes could not keep it under pseudomicrogravity. Seven days after the operation, S. nigriventris alone partially recovered the ability to keep an upside-down swimming posture, and did completely, to the control level, 25 days after the operation. Furthermore, when S. nigriventris was under pseudomicrogravity in dark conditions, it showed disturbed swimming postures. These results suggest that the upside-down swimming catfish has superior ability of postural control depending on the labyrinth.

Effect of Bizhongxiao decoction and its dismantled formulae on IL-1 and TNF levels in collagen-induced arthritis in rat synovial joints

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease, affects sufferers in many different ways. Treatment of this chronic condition is particularly challenging. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides alternatives. Bizhongxiao decoction (BZX) is a TCM complex, which has been used clinically for many years to treat RA. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of BZX decoction and its dismantled formulae on IL-1 and TNF-1 levels in rats with RA, and to elucidate its mechanism of action. Methods Ninety healthy normal female SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: normal (control), model, BZX decoction, and the three dismantled formulae (I: heat-clearing and detoxication, II: dissipating dampness, and III: blood circulation promotion). Apart from the normal (control) group, the rats in each group were injected subcutaneously with bovine type II collagen and complete Freund adjuvant to establish a collagen-induced arthritis model, so that inhibition of foot swelling in the rats by BZX decoction and its dismantled formulae could be observed. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess the levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1 and TNF in synovial joints at various time points. Results Twenty-one days after the model was established, the levels of TNF and IL-1 were significantly higher in the model group, BZX decoction group and dismantled formula groups I, II and III than in the normal controls (P < 0.05). The levels of these cytokines were significantly higher in the model group than the BZX decoction or the three dismantled formula groups (P <0.01). At longer times, the TNF and IL-1 levels in model group rose gradually; those in the BZX decoction and dismantled formula groups were gradually reduced. The cytokine levels in the BZX decoction group were lower than in the three dismantled formula groups and continued to decline. Conclusions BZX decoction and the three dismantled formulae examined down-regulated the inflammatory factors IL-1 and TNF in collagen-induced arthritis rat models, but BZX exerted the strongest effect. PMID:23163934

Levamisole and/or Chinese medicinal herbs can modulate the serum level of squamous cell carcinoma associated antigen in patients with erosive oral lichen planus.

PubMed

Sun, A; Chiang, C P

2001-10-01

The serum levels of squamous cell carcinoma associated antigen (SCCA) were determined by a microparticle enzyme immunoassay in a group of patients with stage I oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), major or minor type erosive oral lichen planus (EOLP), recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), Behçet's disease (BD), oral leukoplakia (OL), or oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), and in normal control subjects. About 97% of the normal control subjects and the patients with minor type EOLP, RAS, BD, OL or OSF had a serum level of SCCA within the normal limit of 1.2 ng/ml. However, 6 of the 12 (50%) patients with stage I OSCC and 14 of the 31 (45.2%) patients with major type EOLP had a serum level of SCCA greater than 1.2 ng/ml. The mean serum level of SCCA in stage I OSCC patients (1.38+/-1.16 ng/ml) or in major type EOLP patients (1.32+/-1.23 ng/ml) was significantly higher than that in normal control subjects (P<0.001) and that in the patients with minor type EOLP (P<0.001), RAS (P<0.001), BD (P<0.05), OL (P<0.05), or OSF (P<0.05). Either major or minor type EOLP patients could obtain a significant mean reduction of the serum SCCA level of 0.34-0.63 ng/ml after treatment with levamisole and/or Chinese medicinal herbs for 1-30 months. Combination therapy with levamisole plus Chinese medicinal herbs could achieve a shorter duration of treatment to get complete remission than the single therapy with either levamisole only or Chinese medicinal herbs only. We conclude that levamisole and/or Chinese medicinal herbs can modulate the serum SCCA level in EOLP patients. SCCA may be a useful marker in evaluating therapeutic effects and in monitoring the disease status of EOLP. For EOLP patients, the combination therapy is superior to the single therapy of levamisole or of Chinese medicinal herbs.

Obstructive sleep apnea presenting as pseudopheochromocytoma

PubMed Central

Marmouch, Hela; Arfa, Sondes; Graja, Sameh; Slim, Tensim; Khochtali, Ines

2016-01-01

A 52-year-old female with a history of poorly controlled resistant hypertension was admitted to our hospital with severe hypertension. She had a history of fatigue and intermittent episodes of palpitations. Laboratory evaluation was significant for elevated 24-h urinary catecholamine levels (3,5 times the upper normal levels). This case was presenting with a clinical and biochemical picture indistinguishable from that of pheochromocytoma. However, neither computed tomography nor meta-iodo-benzyl-guanidine scintigraphy detected any catecholamine-producing tumor in or outside the adrenal glands. Our patient was screened with full polysomnography because of heavy snoring, daytime somnolence and obesity. It revealed severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. After three months of continuous positive airway pressure therapy, the patient experienced resolution of his presenting symptoms, improved blood pressure control and normalization of his urinary catecholamine levels. This case highlights sleep disordered breathing as a potentially reversible cause of pseudo-pheochromocytoma. PMID:27217898

Non-negative matrix factorization in texture feature for classification of dementia with MRI data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarwinda, D.; Bustamam, A.; Ardaneswari, G.

2017-07-01

This paper investigates applications of non-negative matrix factorization as feature selection method to select the features from gray level co-occurrence matrix. The proposed approach is used to classify dementia using MRI data. In this study, texture analysis using gray level co-occurrence matrix is done to feature extraction. In the feature extraction process of MRI data, we found seven features from gray level co-occurrence matrix. Non-negative matrix factorization selected three features that influence of all features produced by feature extractions. A Naïve Bayes classifier is adapted to classify dementia, i.e. Alzheimer's disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and normal control. The experimental results show that non-negative factorization as feature selection method able to achieve an accuracy of 96.4% for classification of Alzheimer's and normal control. The proposed method also compared with other features selection methods i.e. Principal Component Analysis (PCA).

Activated platelets are the source of elevated levels of soluble CD40 ligand in the circulation of inflammatory bowel disease patients.

PubMed

Danese, S; Katz, J A; Saibeni, S; Papa, A; Gasbarrini, A; Vecchi, M; Fiocchi, C

2003-10-01

The CD40/CD40L system, a key regulator and amplifier of immune reactivity, is activated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mucosa. To determine whether plasma levels of sCD40L are elevated in Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients compared with normal controls, to investigate the cellular source of sCD40L, and to explore CD40L induction mechanisms. CD, UC, and normal control subjects were studied. The concentration of sCD40L in plasma and supernatants of freshly isolated platelets and autologous peripheral blood T cells (PBT) was measured by ELISA. Surface CD40L expression level was measured by flow cytometry in resting and thrombin activated platelets, and unstimulated and CD3/CD28 stimulated PBT before and after coculture with human intestinal microvascular endothelial cells (HIMEC). Compared with normal controls, plasma sCD40L levels were significantly higher in both CD and UC patients and proportional to the extent of mucosal inflammation. Platelets from IBD patients displayed a significantly higher surface CD40L expression than those from control subjects, and released greater amounts of sCD40L than autologous PBT. Contact with IL-1beta activated HIMEC induced significant upregulation of CD40L surface expression and release by platelets. Elevated levels of sCD40L in the circulation of IBD patients reflect enhanced surface expression and release of CD40L by platelets. This phenomenon translates to an increased platelet activation state apparently induced by passage through an inflamed mucosal microvascular bed, a conclusion supported by the positive correlation of plasma sCD40L levels with the extent of anatomical involvement by IBD. These results suggest that platelet-endothelial interactions critically contribute to activation of the CD40 pathway in IBD.

Comparison between Alzheimer's disease and subcortical vascular dementia: attentional cortex study in functional magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Li, C; Zheng, J; Wang, J; Gui, L

2011-01-01

Blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and the Stroop test were used to assess attentional cortex activation in patients with Alzheimer's disease, subcortical vascular dementia, and normal control subjects. Patients with Alzheimer's disease and subcortical vascular dementia demonstrated similar locations of cortical activation, including the bilateral middle and inferior frontal gyri, anterior cingulate and inferior parietal lobule in response to Stroop colour word stimuli. This activation was distinctly decreased in patients with dementia compared with normal control subjects. Different regions of the brain were activated in patients with Alzheimer's disease and subcortical vascular dementia compared with normal controls. fMRI is a useful tool for the study of dementia in humans and has some potential diagnostic value. Further studies with larger numbers of participants are required.

Tone discrimination performance in schizophrenic patients and normal volunteers: impact of stimulus presentation levels and frequency differences.

PubMed

Holcomb, H H; Ritzl, E K; Medoff, D R; Nevitt, J; Gordon, B; Tamminga, C A

1995-06-29

Psychophysical and cognitive studies carried out in schizophrenic patients show high within-group performance variance and sizable differences between patients and normal volunteers. Experimental manipulation of a target's signal-to-noise characteristics can, however, make a given task more or less difficult for a given subject. Such signal-to-noise manipulations can substantially reduce performance differences between individuals. Frequency and presentation level (volume) changes of an auditory tone can make a sound more or less difficult to recognize. This study determined how the discrimination accuracy of medicated schizophrenic patients and normal volunteers changed when the frequency difference between two tones (high frequency vs. low frequency) and the presentation levels of tones were systematically degraded. The investigators hypothesized that each group would become impaired in its discrimination accuracy when tone signals were degraded by making the frequencies more similar and the presentation levels lower. Schizophrenic patients were slower and less accurate than normal volunteers on tests using four tone levels and two frequency differences; the schizophrenic patient group showed a significant decrement in accuracy when the signal-to-noise characteristics of the target tones were degraded. The benefits of controlling stimulus discrimination difficulty in functional imaging paradigms are discussed.

The comparison of serum vaspin and visfatin concentrations in obese and normal weight women.

PubMed

Saboori, S; Hosseinzadeh-Attar, M J; Yousefi Rad, E; Hosseini, M; Mirzaei, K; Ahmadivand, Z

2015-01-01

There is evidence based studies which show that plasma level of visfatin and vaspin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus elevate in comparison with healthy people. But there is no consistency in plasma visfatin and vaspin concentration between studies done on obese people. For this reason, the aim of this study is to investigate the serum level concentrations of visfatin and vaspin in obese women compared to normal weight women. The participants of this study consist of 43 women aged 20-50, and 43 healthy women with normal weight as a control group. They were matched for age and physical activity. 24h food recall was used to collect dietary information from subjects. Moreover, blood sampling was taken to measure the blood levels of sugar, lipid profile, vaspin and visfatin. The mean serum level of visfatin was not statistically different between obese and normal weight women. But, the obese women had statistically higher mean serum level of vaspin than normal women (p=0.04). We found no relations between serum levels of vaspin with serum concentration of visfatin. Also, serum levels of these two adipokines were not related to the serum concentrations of fasting glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyserides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Also, there was a significant positive relationship between carbohydrate intake and serum visfatin level in women participating to this study (p=0.018, r=0.257). The results of this study demonstrated that the level of serum vaspin was significantly higher in obese women. But there were no differences in serum levels of visfatin in comparison to normal weight women. Meanwhile this study demonstrated a positive relationship between serum levels of visfatin with dietary intake of carbohydrate, but no relationship between serum level of visfatin and vaspin in women participating in this study. Copyright © 2013 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Motor Control Abnormalities in Parkinson’s Disease

PubMed Central

Mazzoni, Pietro; Shabbott, Britne; Cortés, Juan Camilo

2012-01-01

The primary manifestations of Parkinson’s disease are abnormalities of movement, including movement slowness, difficulties with gait and balance, and tremor. We know a considerable amount about the abnormalities of neuronal and muscle activity that correlate with these symptoms. Motor symptoms can also be described in terms of motor control, a level of description that explains how movement variables, such as a limb’s position and speed, are controlled and coordinated. Understanding motor symptoms as motor control abnormalities means to identify how the disease disrupts normal control processes. In the case of Parkinson’s disease, movement slowness, for example, would be explained by a disruption of the control processes that determine normal movement speed. Two long-term benefits of understanding the motor control basis of motor symptoms include the future design of neural prostheses to replace the function of damaged basal ganglia circuits, and the rational design of rehabilitation strategies. This type of understanding, however, remains limited, partly because of limitations in our knowledge of normal motor control. In this article, we review the concept of motor control and describe a few motor symptoms that illustrate the challenges in understanding such symptoms as motor control abnormalities. PMID:22675667

Stress inhibits PYY secretion in obese and normal weight women.

PubMed

Kiessl, Gundula R R; Laessle, Reinhold G

2016-06-01

The impact of stress on circulating levels of appetite-regulating hormones remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of acute psychosocial stress on the gut hormone peptide YY (PYY) secretion in obese and normal weight women. Therefore, we compared pre- and post-prandial plasma PYY secretion of 42 obese and 43 normal weight women in a repeated measure randomized controlled laboratory experiment. PYY and cortisol concentrations were measured and ratings of stress and satiety were also recorded in response to a psychological stressor (Trier Social Stress Test, TSST). PYY samples were collected in the fasting state both before participating in the TSST and before a control session. Participants had a standardized meal after the TSST and control session, respectively. PYY was measured both 30 and 60 min after the TSST and control session, respectively. Stress inhibited PYY secretion as well as food intake in all women, but did not influence subjective satiety perception. The present data indicate that despite of lower PYY levels the subjects' requirement to overeat was not increased. From an evolutionary perspective this finding is adaptive. After stress the organism is prepared for fight or flight reaction, whereas not primarily necessary functions are inhibited. Therefore, increased food intake during stress would be dysfunctional.

Memory for the perceptual and semantic attributes of information in pure amnesic and severe closed-head injured patients.

PubMed

Carlesimo, Giovanni A; Bonanni, Rita; Caltagirone, Carlo

2003-05-01

This study investigated the hypothesis that brain damaged patients with memory disorder are poorer at remembering the semantic than the perceptual attributes of information. Eight patients with memory impairment of different etiology and 24 patients with chronic consequences of severe closed-head injury were compared to similarly sized age- and literacy-matched normal control groups on recognition tests for the physical aspect and the semantic identity of words and pictures lists. In order to avoid interpretative problems deriving from different absolute levels of performance, study conditions were manipulated across subjects to obtain comparable accuracy on the perceptual recognition tests in the memory disordered and control groups. The results of the Picture Recognition test were consistent with the hypothesis. Indeed, having more time for the stimulus encoding, the two memory disordered groups performed at the same level as the normal subjects on the perceptual test but significantly lower on the semantic test. Instead, on the Word Recognition test, following study condition manipulation, patients and controls performed similarly on both the perceptual and the semantic tests. These data only partially support the hypothesis of the study; rather they suggest that in memory disordered patients there is a reduction of the advantage, exhibited by normal controls, of retrieving pictures over words (picture superiority effect).

Plasma antibodies to Abeta40 and Abeta42 in patients with Alzheimer's disease and normal controls.

PubMed

Xu, Wuhua; Kawarabayashi, Takeshi; Matsubara, Etsuro; Deguchi, Kentaro; Murakami, Tetsuro; Harigaya, Yasuo; Ikeda, Masaki; Amari, Masakuni; Kuwano, Ryozo; Abe, Koji; Shoji, Mikio

2008-07-11

Antibodies to amyloid beta protein (Abeta) are present naturally or after Abeta vaccine therapy in human plasma. To clarify their clinical role, we examined plasma samples from 113 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 205 normal controls using the tissue amyloid plaque immunoreactivity (TAPIR) assay. A high positive rate of TAPIR was revealed in AD (45.1%) and age-matched controls (41.2%), however, no significance was observed. No significant difference was observed in the MMS score or disease duration between TAPIR-positive and negative samples. TAPIR-positive plasma reacted with the Abeta40 monomer and dimer, and the Abeta42 monomer weakly, but not with the Abeta42 dimer. TAPIR was even detected in samples from young normal subjects and young Tg2576 transgenic mice. Although the Abeta40 level and Abeta40/42 ratio increased, and Abeta42 was significantly decreased in plasma from AD groups when compared to controls, no significant correlations were revealed between plasma Abeta levels and TAPIR grading. Thus an immune response to Abeta40 and immune tolerance to Abeta42 occurred naturally in humans without a close relationship to the Abeta burden in the brain. Clarification of the mechanism of the immune response to Abeta42 is necessary for realization of an immunotherapy for AD.

14 CFR 23.253 - High speed characteristics.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... and characteristics include gust upsets, inadvertent control movements, low stick force gradients in relation to control friction, passenger movement, leveling off from climb, and descent from Mach to... normal attitude and its speed reduced to VMO/MMO, without— (1) Exceptional piloting strength or skill; (2...

14 CFR 23.253 - High speed characteristics.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... and characteristics include gust upsets, inadvertent control movements, low stick force gradients in relation to control friction, passenger movement, leveling off from climb, and descent from Mach to... normal attitude and its speed reduced to VMO/MMO, without— (1) Exceptional piloting strength or skill; (2...

Comparison of skin barrier function and sensory nerve electric current perception threshold between IgE-high extrinsic and IgE-normal intrinsic types of atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Mori, T; Ishida, K; Mukumoto, S; Yamada, Y; Imokawa, G; Kabashima, K; Kobayashi, M; Bito, T; Nakamura, M; Ogasawara, K; Tokura, Y

2010-01-01

Background Two types of atopic dermatitis (AD) have been proposed, with different pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this seemingly heterogeneous disorder. The extrinsic type shows high IgE levels presumably as a consequence of skin barrier damage and feasible allergen permeation, whereas the intrinsic type exhibits normal IgE levels and is not mediated by allergen-specific IgE. Objectives To investigate the relationship between pruritus perception threshold and skin barrier function of patients with AD in a comparison between the extrinsic and intrinsic types. Methods Enrolled in this study were 32 patients with extrinsic AD, 17 with intrinsic AD and 24 healthy individuals. The barrier function of the stratum corneum was assessed by skin surface hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and pruritus perception was evaluated by the electric current perception threshold (CPT) of sensory nerves upon neuroselective transcutaneous electric stimulation. Results Skin surface hydration was significantly lower and TEWL was significantly higher in extrinsic AD than intrinsic AD or normal controls. Although there was no statistically significant difference in CPT among extrinsic AD, intrinsic AD and normal controls, CPT was significantly correlated with skin surface hydration and inversely with TEWL in intrinsic AD and normal controls, but not extrinsic AD. Finally, CPT was correlated with the visual analogue scale of itch in the nonlesional skin of patients with extrinsic but not intrinsic AD. Conclusions Patients with extrinsic AD have an impaired barrier, which increases the pre-existing pruritus but rather decreases sensitivity to external stimuli. In contrast, patients with intrinsic AD retain a normal barrier function and sensory reactivity to external pruritic stimuli.

The effect of golimumab on haemoglobin levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.

PubMed

Furst, Daniel E; Kay, Jonathan; Wasko, Mary Chester; Keystone, Edward; Kavanaugh, Arthur; Deodhar, Atul; Murphy, Frederick T; Magnus, Jeanette H; Hsia, Elizabeth C; Hsu, Benjamin; Xu, Stephen; Rahman, Mahboob U; Doyle, Mittie K

2013-10-01

To evaluate the effect of golimumab on haemoglobin levels in patients with RA, PsA or AS. Secondary analysis was performed on integrated data from five randomized controlled studies: three RA, one PsA and one AS (2303 patients total). Golimumab 50 or 100 mg was injected s.c. every 4 weeks with or without MTX. Control groups received placebo injections plus MTX or background therapy. Patients with haemoglobin levels below the age- and sex-specific normal ranges were considered to have anaemia. Ferritin levels were used to distinguish anaemia of mixed aetiology (≥ 15 and <60 ng/ml) and anaemia of inflammation (≥ 60 ng/ml). Changes from baseline to weeks 14 and 24 in haemoglobin level were compared between treatment groups using an analysis of variance on the van der Waerden normal scores. At baseline, 21% of RA patients, 9% of PsA patients and 15% of AS patients had anaemia. Of these, 24%, 57% and 25%, respectively, had anaemia of inflammation. The median increase from baseline to week 14 in the haemoglobin level of anaemic patients was 0.3 g/dl in the control group and 0.9 g/dl in the golimumab group (P < 0.001). Haemoglobin levels improved within the subgroups of patients with anaemia of mixed aetiology (control, 0.4 g/dl vs golimumab, 0.7 g/dl) (P = 0.305) and with anaemia of inflammation (0.2 vs 1.4 g/dl, respectively) (P < 0.001). Compared with the control group, patients receiving golimumab treatment had significantly improved haemoglobin levels, particularly among patients with anaemia of inflammation.

HYPERTHYROIDISM AND HYPERPROLACTINEMIA: IS THERE ANY ASSOCIATION?

PubMed

Sanjari, Mojgan; Safi, Zohreh; Tahroodi, Khatereh Mohammadi

2016-12-01

To compare the serum prolactin level in hyperthyroid and normal control females. Hyperthyroidism is a common disease. Although a direct association has been demonstrated between hypothyroidism and increased prolactin levels, this association has not been established for hyperthyroidism. Cross-sectional study in cases and control groups. Control subjects were chosen from those participating in the Kerman Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factors study. To select the cases, all women referred to the laboratories of Kerman with a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level ≤0.5 mIU/L who met the inclusion criteria were entered in the study. A total of 231 women aged 15 to 50 years were enrolled. The case group included 71 hyperthyroid women, and the control group included 160 women with normal thyroid function matched by age. The mean (SD) serum level of prolactin was 16.56 (0.97) ng/mL (95% confidence interval [CI], 15.41 ng/mL to 15.71 ng/mL) in the controls and 23.07 (1.49) ng/mL (95% CI, 22.7 ng/mL to 23.4 ng/mL) in the case subjects. Hyperprolactinemia was more common in the hyperthyroid group (16.5 [0.97] ng/mL versus 23.07 [1.49] ng/mL; P<.001). The prolactin level decreased with age. Hyperthyroidism and estradiol increased the prolactin level. After adjusting for age and estradiol, hyperthyroidism increased the serum prolactin level (P<.001). The results of this study revealed that hyperprolactinemia is more frequent in hyperthyroid females. Serum prolactin level can be increased in hyperthyroidism. PRL = prolactin T4 = thyroxine TRH = thyrotropin-releasing hormone TSH = thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Dietary phosphate restriction normalizes biochemical and skeletal abnormalities in a murine model of tumoral calcinosis.

PubMed

Ichikawa, Shoji; Austin, Anthony M; Gray, Amie K; Allen, Matthew R; Econs, Michael J

2011-12-01

Mutations in the GALNT3 gene cause tumoral calcinosis characterized by ectopic calcifications due to persistent hyperphosphatemia. We recently developed Galnt3 knockout mice in a mixed background, which had hyperphosphatemia with increased bone mineral density (BMD) and infertility in males. To test the effect of dietary phosphate intake on their phenotype, Galnt3 knockout mice were generated in the C57BL/6J strain and fed various phosphate diets: 0.1% (low), 0.3% (low normal), 0.6% (normal), and 1.65% (high). Sera were analyzed for calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, blood urine nitrogen, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, osteocalcin, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23). Femurs were evaluated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, dynamic histomorphometry, and/or microcomputed tomography. Galnt3 knockout mice in C57BL/6J had the same biochemical phenotype observed in our previous study: hyperphosphatemia, inappropriately normal 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level, decreased alkaline phosphatase activity, and low intact Fgf23 concentration but high Fgf23 fragments. Skeletal analyses of their femurs revealed significantly high BMD with increased cortical bone area and trabecular bone volume. On all four phosphate diets, Galnt3 knockout mice had consistently higher phosphorus levels and lower alkaline phosphatase and intact Fgf23 concentrations than littermate controls. The low-phosphate diet normalized serum phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and areal BMD but failed to correct male infertility in Galnt3 knockout mice. The high-phosphate diet did not increase serum phosphorus concentration in either mutant or control mice due to a compensatory increase in circulating intact Fgf23 levels. In conclusion, dietary phosphate restriction normalizes biochemical and skeletal phenotypes of Galnt3 knockout mice and, thus, can be an effective therapy for tumoral calcinosis.

Dietary Phosphate Restriction Normalizes Biochemical and Skeletal Abnormalities in a Murine Model of Tumoral Calcinosis

PubMed Central

Austin, Anthony M.; Gray, Amie K.; Allen, Matthew R.; Econs, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Mutations in the GALNT3 gene cause tumoral calcinosis characterized by ectopic calcifications due to persistent hyperphosphatemia. We recently developed Galnt3 knockout mice in a mixed background, which had hyperphosphatemia with increased bone mineral density (BMD) and infertility in males. To test the effect of dietary phosphate intake on their phenotype, Galnt3 knockout mice were generated in the C57BL/6J strain and fed various phosphate diets: 0.1% (low), 0.3% (low normal), 0.6% (normal), and 1.65% (high). Sera were analyzed for calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, blood urine nitrogen, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, osteocalcin, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23). Femurs were evaluated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, dynamic histomorphometry, and/or microcomputed tomography. Galnt3 knockout mice in C57BL/6J had the same biochemical phenotype observed in our previous study: hyperphosphatemia, inappropriately normal 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level, decreased alkaline phosphatase activity, and low intact Fgf23 concentration but high Fgf23 fragments. Skeletal analyses of their femurs revealed significantly high BMD with increased cortical bone area and trabecular bone volume. On all four phosphate diets, Galnt3 knockout mice had consistently higher phosphorus levels and lower alkaline phosphatase and intact Fgf23 concentrations than littermate controls. The low-phosphate diet normalized serum phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and areal BMD but failed to correct male infertility in Galnt3 knockout mice. The high-phosphate diet did not increase serum phosphorus concentration in either mutant or control mice due to a compensatory increase in circulating intact Fgf23 levels. In conclusion, dietary phosphate restriction normalizes biochemical and skeletal phenotypes of Galnt3 knockout mice and, thus, can be an effective therapy for tumoral calcinosis. PMID:22009723

Serum antioxidant status in patients with systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Hassan, Iffat; Sajad, Peerzada; Majid, Sabiya; Hassan, Tehseen

2013-05-01

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a central event in pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Systemic sclerosis is one of such diseases. The oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidants in the serum is believed to be one of the factors in causing this dysfunction. The aim of this case control study was to compare the levels of antioxidants in the serum of patients with systemic sclerosis and the normal age and sex matched controls. Our study consisted of 16 successively admitted patients with systemic sclerosis and 16 healthy, age and sex matched controls. The age group of patient's ranged between 25 and 55 years. The duration of the disease in patients ranged from 1 to 8 years. The serum of patients and controls were assayed for the levels of antioxidants (GSH, NO, MDA, SOD and GPX) by spectrophotometry. The statistical method of analysis used was the one sample t-test. THE MEDIAN LEVELS OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN THE CONTROL PATIENTS WERE: SOD-4.14 units/ml; GSH-4.76 units/ml; NO-5.58 nmol/l; MDA-0.53 nmol/l and GPX-49 μmol/l. The levels of NO, GSH and SOD were decreased in these patients with a significant P value (<0.001) whereas the levels of GPX and MDA were normal to increased with a significant P value. The depletion of antioxidants and oxidative stress in serum might be responsible for the vascular dysfunction and other hallmark manifestations of systemic sclerosis. Therefore micronutrient antioxidant supplements may be of therapeutic value.

Changes in gut hormone levels and negative energy balance during aerobic exercise in obese young males.

PubMed

Ueda, Shin-ya; Yoshikawa, Takahiro; Katsura, Yoshihiro; Usui, Tatsuya; Nakao, Hayato; Fujimoto, Shigeo

2009-04-01

We examined whether changes in gut hormone levels due to a single bout of aerobic exercise differ between obese young males and normal controls, and attempted to determine the involvement of hormonal changes during exercise in the regulation of energy balance (EB) in these obese subjects. Seven obese and seven age-matched subjects of normal weight participated in exercise and rest sessions. Subjects consumed a standardized breakfast that was followed by constant cycling exercise at 50% VO(2max) or rest for 60 min. At lunch, a test meal was presented, and energy intake (EI) and relative energy intake (REI) were calculated. Blood samples were obtained at 30 min intervals during both sessions for measurement of glucose, insulin, glucagon, ghrelin, peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Plasma levels of PYY and GLP-1 were increased by exercise, whereas plasma ghrelin levels were unaffected by exercise. The areas under the curve (AUC) of the time courses of PYY and GLP-1 levels did not significantly differ between the two groups. In contrast, EI and REI were decreased by exercise in both groups, and energy deficit was significantly larger in obese subjects than in normal controls. The present findings suggest that short-term EB during a single exercise session might be regulated not by increased amounts of these gut hormones per se.

Association between CFH Y402H Polymorphism and Age Related Macular Degeneration in North Indian Cohort

PubMed Central

Gupta, Amod; Prabhakar, Sudesh; Singh, Ramandeep; Sharma, Suresh Kumar; Chen, Wei

2013-01-01

The purpose of the study was to determine serum complement factor H (CFH) levels in patients of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and examine its association with CFH Y402H polymorphism. 115 AMD patients and 61 normal controls were recruited in this study. The single nucleotide polymorphism was assayed by real time PCR and serum CFH levels were measured by ELISA and standardized to total serum protein. Chi-square test was applied to polymorphism analysis while Mann Whitney U-statistic for CFH-levels. Mendelian randomization approach was used for determining causal relationship. The genotype frequency differed between the AMD patients (TT- 18.3%, TC-41.3% and CC-40.4%) and controls (TT-76.3%, TC-13.6%, and CC-10.1%) (p = 0001). The frequency of alleles was also significantly different when AMD (T-39% and C-61%) was compared to controls (T-83% and C-17%) (p = 0.0001). Level of serum CFH was significantly lower in AMD patients as compared to normal controls (p = 0.001). Our data showed that the CFH Y402H polymorphism is a risk factor for AMD in the North Indian population. Mendelian randomization approach revealed that CFH Y402H polymorphism affects AMD risk through the modification of CFH serum levels. PMID:23922956

Brain-Derived neurotrophic factor levels in late-life depression and comorbid mild cognitive impairment: a longitudinal study

PubMed Central

Diniz, Breno Satler; Reynolds, Charles F.; Begley, Amy; Dew, Mary Amanda; Anderson, Stewart J.; Lotrich, Francis; Erickson, Kirk I.; Lopez, Oscar; Aizenstein, Howard; Sibille, Etienne L.; Butters, Meryl A.

2014-01-01

Changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level are implicated in the pathophysiology of cognitive decline in depression and neurodegenerative disorders in older adults. We aimed to evaluate the longitudinal association over two years between BDNF and persistent cognitive decline in individuals with remitted late-life depression and Mild Cognitive Impairment (LLD+MCI) compared to either individuals with remitted LLD and no cognitive decline (LLD+NCD) or never-depressed, cognitively normal, elderly control participants. We additionally evaluated the effect of double-blind, placebo-controlled donepezil treatment on BDNF levels in all of the remitted LLD participants (across the levels of cognitive function). We included 160 elderly participants in this study (72 LLD+NCD, 55 LLD+MCI and 33 never-depressed cognitively normal elderly participants). At the same visits, cognitive assessments were conducted and blood sampling to determine serum BDNF levels were collected at baseline assessment and after one and two years of follow-up. We utilized repeated measure, mixed effect models to assess: (1) the effects of diagnosis (LLD+MCI, LLD+NCD, and controls), time, and their interaction on BDNF levels; and (2) the effects of donepezil treatment (donepezil vs. placebo), time, baseline diagnosis (LLD+MCI vs. LLD+NCD), and interactions between these contrasts on BDNF levels. We found a significant effect of time on BDNF level (p=0.02) and a significant decline in BDNF levels over 2 years of follow-up in participants with LLD+MCI (p=0.004) and controls (p=0.04). We found no effect of donepezil treatment on BDNF level. The present results suggest that aging is an important factor related to decline in BDNF level. PMID:24290367

Plasma galanin concentrations in obese, normal weight and anorectic women.

PubMed

Invitti, C; Brunani, A; Pasqualinotto, L; Dubini, A; Bendinelli, P; Maroni, P; Cavagnini, F

1995-05-01

Galanin is believed to play a role in the control of eating behavior. No information is available on its concentrations in the biological fluids in human obesity, and this study aimed to clarify this. We measured plasma galanin and serum insulin levels in 30 obese, 35 normal weight and 11 anorectic women. Mean galanin values were quite similar in obese and control subjects (76.8 +/- 3.20 vs 76.1 +/- 2.33 pg/ml) and only slightly reduced in anorectic patients (67.9 +/- 2.30 pg/ml). Insulin levels were significantly increased and decreased in obese and anorectic patients, respectively, compared to controls. Insulin correlated positively with BMI in the whole group of subjects studied (r = 0.72, P < 0.0001) and in the obese subgroup (r = 0.56, P < 0.02). No correlations could be detected between WH ratio, insulin and galanin concentrations and between galanin and BMI. In conclusion, plasma galanin concentrations appear to be comparable in obese, normal weight and anorectic subjects. This does not exclude a role of galanin in the regulation of eating behavior since variations of the peptide in discrete brain areas may not be detectable in general circulation and peripheral sources of the peptide may contribute to its plasma levels. Also, our data suggest that galanin does not play a major role in the regulation of insulin secretion in humans.

A role for GPx3 in activity of normal and leukemia stem cells

PubMed Central

Herault, Olivier; Hope, Kristin J.; Deneault, Eric; Mayotte, Nadine; Chagraoui, Jalila; Wilhelm, Brian T.; Cellot, Sonia; Sauvageau, Martin; Andrade-Navarro, Miguel A.; Hébert, Josée

2012-01-01

The determinants of normal and leukemic stem cell self-renewal remain poorly characterized. We report that expression of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) positively correlates with the frequency of leukemia stem cells (LSCs) in Hoxa9+Meis1-induced leukemias. Compared with a leukemia with a low frequency of LSCs, a leukemia with a high frequency of LSCs showed hypomethylation of the Gpx3 promoter region, and expressed high levels of Gpx3 and low levels of ROS. LSCs and normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) engineered to express Gpx3 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) were much less competitive in vivo than control cells. However, progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation was not affected by Gpx3 shRNA. Consistent with this, HSCs overexpressing Gpx3 were significantly more competitive than control cells in long-term repopulation experiments, and overexpression of the self-renewal genes Prdm16 or Hoxb4 boosted Gpx3 expression. In human primary acute myeloid leukemia samples, GPX3 expression level directly correlated with adverse prognostic outcome, revealing a potential novel target for the eradication of LSCs. PMID:22508837

Glutathione levels in plasma, saliva and gingival crevicular fluid after periodontal therapy in obese and normal weight individuals.

PubMed

Öngöz Dede, F; Bozkurt Doğan, Ş; Balli, U; Avci, B; Durmuşlar, M C; Baratzade, T

2016-12-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of obesity on reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH and GSSG) levels in the gingival crevicular fluid, plasma and saliva of patients with chronic periodontitis and to evaluate the changes after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. The study included 60 patients: 30 patients with chronic periodontitis (15 obese patients and 15 normal weight patients) and 30 healthy control subjects (15 obese patients and 15 normal weight patients). Gingival crevicular fluid, plasma and saliva samples were collected, and clinical periodontal measurements were recorded at baseline and at the first month after periodontal therapy from patients with chronic periodontitis. GSH and GSSG levels were analyzed with spectrophotometry. The GSH levels in the plasma, saliva and gingival crevicular fluid in obese individuals with chronic periodontitis were lower than in normal weight individuals at baseline (p < 0.01). There was a significant difference in the GSH/GSSG ratio in plasma and gingival crevicular fluid between the obese and normal weight groups at baseline (p < 0.01). The GSH levels in plasma, gingival crevicular fluid and saliva were significantly increased in both chronic periodontitis groups after nonsurgical periodontal therapy (p < 0.01). A significant positive correlation was found between GSH levels in saliva, plasma and gingival crevicular fluid in all groups (p < 0.001). The study revealed that obesity in patients with chronic periodontitis is associated with decreased GSH levels and the GSH/GSSG ratio. Moreover, nonsurgical periodontal therapy may be helpful for improvement in glutathione values in obese and normal weight individuals with chronic periodontitis. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Tau Phosphorylation Pathway Genes and Cerebrospinal Fluid Tau Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease

PubMed Central

Bekris, Lynn M.; Millard, Steve; Lutz, Franziska; Li, Gail; Galasko, Doug R.; Farlow, Martin R.; Quinn, Joseph F.; Kaye, Jeffrey A.; Leverenz, James B.; Tsuang, Debby W.; Yu, Chang-En; Peskind, Elaine R.

2013-01-01

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the presence in the brain of amyloid plaques, consisting predominately of the amyloid β peptide (Aβ), and neurofibrillary tangles, consisting primarily of tau. Hyper-phosphorylated-tau (p-tau) contributes to neuronal damage, and both p-tau and total-tau (t-tau) levels are elevated in AD cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compared to cognitively normal controls. Our hypothesis was that increased ratios of CSF phosphorylated-tau levels relative to total-tau levels correlate with regulatory region genetic variation of kinase or phosphatase genes biologically associated with the phosphorylation status of tau. Eighteen SNPs located within 5′ and 3′ regions of 5 kinase and 4 phosphatase genes, as well as two SNPs within regulatory regions of the MAPT gene were chosen for this analysis. The study sample consisted of 101 AD patients and 169 cognitively normal controls. Rs7768046 in the FYN kinase gene and rs913275 in the PPP2R4 phosphatase gene were both associated with CSF p-tau and t-tau levels in AD. These SNPs were also differentially associated with either CSF t-tau (rs7768046) or CSF p-tau (rs913275) relative to t-tau levels in AD compared to controls. These results suggest that rs7768046 and rs913275 both influence CSF tau levels in an AD-associated manner. PMID:22927204

Vitamin B12 and folate levels in long-term vegans.

PubMed

Bar-Sella, P; Rakover, Y; Ratner, D

1990-06-01

Serum vitamin B12, serum folate and red blood cell (RBC) folate levels were examined among 36 strict vegans of 5-35 years' duration. Vitamin B12 levels among the vegans were generally lower than in a control population. Most of the vegans had vitamin B12 values less than 200 pg/ml. RBC folate levels were normal but serum folate levels among the vegans were higher than among the controls. None of the vegans had any hematologic evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency, however four of them had neurologic complaints. Long-standing vegans should be monitored for vitamin B12 levels.

Executive functions in adolescents with binge-eating disorder and obesity.

PubMed

Kittel, Rebekka; Schmidt, Ricarda; Hilbert, Anja

2017-08-01

Binge-eating disorder (BED) in adults is associated with alterations in executive functions (EF) and obesity. Much less is known about these relationships in adolescents, including whether poor EF are associated with eating disorder psychopathology and/or elevated body mass index. This study examined EF in response to neutral stimuli in youth with BED. Adolescents with BED and obesity (n = 22), individually matched adolescents with obesity (n = 22), and normal weight (n = 22) completed neuropsychological tests targeting inhibition (Color-Word Interference Test), sustained attention (D2 Concentration Endurance Test), cognitive flexibility (Comprehensive Trail Making Test), and decision-making (Iowa Gambling Task). Adolescents with BED and obesity displayed significantly poorer inhibitory control compared to normal-weight adolescents. This effect persisted after controlling for the level of secondary education. However, initial differences between adolescents with obesity and normal-weight controls regarding inhibitory control and sustained attention vanished after controlling for education. The three groups did not differ regarding cognitive flexibility and decision-making. Moreover, adolescents with BED and obesity did not perform worse than adolescents with obesity on any of the neuropsychological tests. Overall, our results indicate that adolescent BED is associated with only a few alterations in general EF, specifically inhibitory control, and underline BED and educational level as confounding factors in neuropsychological research on obesity. To further delineate EF profiles of adolescents with BED, future research should focus on EF in response to disorder-related stimuli and experimental settings with high ecological validity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Chromium picolinate inhibits cholesterol-induced stimulation of platelet aggregation in hypercholesterolemic rats.

PubMed

Seif, A A

2015-06-01

Hypercholesterolemia indirectly increases the risk of myocardial infarction by enhancing platelet aggregation. Chromium has been shown to lower plasma lipids. This study was designed to investigate whether chromium inhibits platelet aggregation under hypercholesterolemic conditions. Albino rats were divided into four groups: control rats fed with a normolipemic diet (NLD group), chromium-supplemented rats fed with NLD (NLD + Cr group), rats fed with a high-fat diet (HF group), and chromium-supplemented rats fed with HF (HF + Cr group). After 10 weeks, blood was collected to determine adenosine diphosphate and collagen-induced platelet aggregation and plasma levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, and thromboxane B2. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was calculated by Friedewald formula. High-fat diet animals displayed significant elevation of plasma lipids and platelet aggregation which was normalized to control levels by chromium supplementation. Chromium supplementation in normolipemic (NLD + Cr) rats did not produce significant changes in either plasma lipids or platelet activity. Chromium supplementation to hypercholesterolemic rats improves the lipid profile and returns platelet hyperaggregability to control levels. This normalization is mostly due to a reduction in plasma cholesterol level.

Changes in reproductive biomarkers in an endangered fish species (bonytail chub, Gila elegans) exposed to low levels of organic wastewater compounds in a controlled experiment.

PubMed

Walker, David B; Paretti, Nicholas V; Cordy, Gail; Gross, Timothy S; Zaugg, Steven D; Furlong, Edward T; Kolpin, Dana W; Matter, William J; Gwinn, Jessica; McIntosh, Dennis

2009-11-08

In arid regions of the southwestern United States, municipal wastewater treatment plants commonly discharge treated effluent directly into streams that would otherwise be dry most of the year. A better understanding is needed of how effluent-dependent waters (EDWs) differ from more natural aquatic ecosystems and the ecological effect of low levels of environmentally persistent organic wastewater compounds (OWCs) with distance from the pollutant source. In a controlled experiment, we found 26 compounds common to municipal effluent in treatment raceways all at concentrations <1.0 microg/L. Male bonytail chub (Gila elegans) in tanks containing municipal effluent had significantly lower levels of 11-ketotestosterone (p=0.021) yet higher levels of 17beta-estradiol (p=0.002) and vitellogenin (p=0.036) compared to control male fish. Female bonytail chub in treatment tanks had significantly lower concentrations of 17beta-estradiol than control females (p=0.001). The normally inverse relationship between primary male and female sex hormones, expected in un-impaired fish, was greatly decreased in treatment (r=0.00) versus control (r=-0.66) female fish. We found a similar, but not as significant, trend between treatment (r=-0.45) and control (r=-0.82) male fish. Measures of fish condition showed no significant differences between male or female fish housed in effluent or clean water. Inter-sex condition did not occur and testicular and ovarian cells appeared normal for the respective developmental stage and we observed no morphological alteration in fish. The population-level impacts of these findings are uncertain. Studies examining the long-term, generational and behavioral effects to aquatic organisms chronically exposed to low levels of OWC mixtures are needed.

Changes in reproductive biomarkers in an endangered fish species (bonytail chub, Gila elegans) exposed to low levels of organic wastewater compounds in a controlled experiment

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walker, D.B.; Paretti, N.V.; Cordy, G.; Gross, T.S.; Zaugg, S.D.; Furlong, E.T.; Kolpin, D.W.; Matter, W.J.; Gwinn, J.; McIntosh, D.

2009-01-01

In arid regions of the southwestern United States, municipal wastewater treatment plants commonly discharge treated effluent directly into streams that would otherwise be dry most of the year. A better understanding is needed of how effluent-dependent waters (EDWs) differ from more natural aquatic ecosystems and the ecological effect of low levels of environmentally persistent organic wastewater compounds (OWCs) with distance from the pollutant source. In a controlled experiment, we found 26 compounds common to municipal effluent in treatment raceways all at concentrations <1.0 ??g/L. Male bonytail chub (Gila elegans) in tanks containing municipal effluent had significantly lower levels of 11-ketotestosterone (p = 0.021) yet higher levels of 17??-estradiol (p = 0.002) and vitellogenin (p = 0.036) compared to control male fish. Female bonytail chub in treatment tanks had significantly lower concentrations of 17??-estradiol than control females (p = 0.001). The normally inverse relationship between primary male and female sex hormones, expected in un-impaired fish, was greatly decreased in treatment (r = 0.00) versus control (r = -0.66) female fish. We found a similar, but not as significant, trend between treatment (r = -0.45) and control (r = -0.82) male fish. Measures of fish condition showed no significant differences between male or female fish housed in effluent or clean water. Inter-sex condition did not occur and testicular and ovarian cells appeared normal for the respective developmental stage and we observed no morphological alteration in fish. The population-level impacts of these findings are uncertain. Studies examining the long-term, generational and behavioral effects to aquatic organisms chronically exposed to low levels of OWC mixtures are needed. ?? 2009 Elsevier B.V.

Changes in reproductive biomarkers in an endangered fish species (bonytail chub, Gila elegans) exposed to low levels of organic wastewater compounds in a controlled experiment

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walker, David B.; Paretti, Nicholas V.; Cordy, Gail; Gross, Timothy S.; Zaugg, Steven D.; Furlong, Edward T.; Kolpin, Dana W.; Matter, William J.; Gwinn, Jessica; McIntosh, Dennis

2009-01-01

In arid regions of the southwestern United States, municipal wastewater treatment plants commonly discharge treated effluent directly into streams that would otherwise be dry most of the year. A better understanding is needed of how effluent-dependent waters (EDWs) differ from more natural aquatic ecosystems and the ecological effect of low levels of environmentally persistent organic wastewater compounds (OWCs) with distance from the pollutant source. In a controlled experiment, we found 26 compounds common to municipal effluent in treatment raceways all at concentrations <1.0 μg/L. Male bonytail chub (Gila elegans) in tanks containing municipal effluent had significantly lower levels of 11-ketotestosterone (p = 0.021) yet higher levels of 17β-estradiol (p = 0.002) and vitellogenin (p = 0.036) compared to control male fish. Female bonytail chub in treatment tanks had significantly lower concentrations of 17β-estradiol than control females (p = 0.001). The normally inverse relationship between primary male and female sex hormones, expected in un-impaired fish, was greatly decreased in treatment (r = 0.00) versus control (r = −0.66) female fish. We found a similar, but not as significant, trend between treatment (r = −0.45) and control (r = −0.82) male fish. Measures of fish condition showed no significant differences between male or female fish housed in effluent or clean water. Inter-sex condition did not occur and testicular and ovarian cells appeared normal for the respective developmental stage and we observed no morphological alteration in fish. The population-level impacts of these findings are uncertain. Studies examining the long-term, generational and behavioral effects to aquatic organisms chronically exposed to low levels of OWC mixtures are needed.

Clinical importance of achieving biochemical control with medical therapy in adult patients with acromegaly

PubMed Central

Christofides, Elena A

2016-01-01

In acromegaly, achieving biochemical control (growth hormone [GH] level <1.0 ng/mL and age- and sex-normalized levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF-1]) through timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment provides an opportunity to improve patient outcomes. Diagnosis of acromegaly is challenging because it is rooted in observing subtle clinical manifestations, and it is typical for acromegaly to evolve for up to 10 years before it is recognized. This results in chronic exposure to elevated levels of GH and IGF-1 and delay in patients receiving appropriate treatment, which consequently increases mortality risk. In this review, the clinical impact of elevated GH and IGF-1 levels, the effectiveness of current therapies, and the potential role of novel treatments for acromegaly will be discussed. Clinical burden of acromegaly and benefits associated with management of GH and IGF-1 levels will be reviewed. Major treatment paradigms in acromegaly include surgery, medical therapy, and radiotherapy. With medical therapies, such as somatostatin analogs, dopamine agonists, and GH receptor antagonists, a substantial proportion of patients achieve reduced GH and normalized IGF-1 levels. In addition, signs and symptoms, quality of life, and comorbidities have also been reported to improve to varying degrees in patients who achieve biochemical control. Currently, there are several innovative therapies in development to improve patient outcomes, patient use, and access. Timely biochemical control of acromegaly ensures that the patient can ultimately improve morbidity and mortality from this disease and its extensive consequences. PMID:27471378

Regulatory effect of acetyl-l-carnitine on expression of lenticular antioxidant and apoptotic genes in selenite-induced cataract.

PubMed

Elanchezhian, R; Sakthivel, M; Geraldine, P; Thomas, P A

2010-03-30

Differential expression of apoptotic genes has been demonstrated in selenite-induced cataract. Acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR) has been shown to prevent selenite cataractogenesis by maintaining lenticular antioxidant enzyme and redox system components at near normal levels and also by inhibiting lenticular calpain activity. The aim of the present experiment was to investigate the possibility that ALCAR also prevents selenite-induced cataractogenesis by regulating the expression of antioxidant (catalase) and apoptotic [caspase-3, early growth response protein-1 (EGR-1) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX-I)] genes. The experiment was conducted on 9-day-old Wistar rat pups, which were divided into normal, cataract-untreated and cataract-treated groups. Putative changes in gene expression in whole lenses removed from the rats were determined by measuring mRNA transcript levels of the four genes by RT-PCR analysis, using glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) as an internal control. The expression of lenticular caspase-3 and EGR-1 genes appeared to be upregulated, as inferred by detecting increased mRNA transcript levels, while that of COX-I and catalase genes appeared to be downregulated (lowered mRNA transcript levels) in the lenses of cataract-untreated rats. However, in rats treated with ALCAR, the lenticular mRNA transcript levels were maintained at near normal (control) levels. These results suggest that ALCAR may prevent selenite-induced cataractogenesis by preventing abnormal expression of lenticular genes governing apoptosis.

Whey protein enhances normal inflammatory responses during cutaneous wound healing in diabetic rats

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Prolonged wound healing is a complication of diabetes that contributes to mortality. Impaired wound healing occurs as a consequence of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Whey protein (WP) is able to reduce the oxygen radicals and increase the levels of the antioxidant glutathione. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine whether dietary supplementation with WP could enhance normal inflammatory responses during wound healing in diabetic rats. Animals were assigned into a wounded control group (WN), a wounded diabetic group (WD) and a wounded diabetic group orally supplemented with whey protein (WDWP) at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight. Results Whey protein was found to significantly decrease the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and ROS. A significant restoration of the glutathione level was observed in WDWP rats. During the early wound healing stage, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4 and neutrophil infiltration were significantly decreased in WD mice. WP supplementation was found to restore the levels of these inflammatory markers to the levels observed in control animals. In addition, the time required for wound healing was significantly prolonged in diabetic rats. WP was found to significantly decrease the time required for wound healing in WDWP rats. Conclusion In conclusion, dietary supplementation with WP enhances the normal inflammatory responses during wound healing in diabetic mice by restoring the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. PMID:22168406

Cocaine effects on pulsatile secretion of anterior pituitary, gonadal, and adrenal hormones.

PubMed

Mendelson, J H; Mello, N K; Teoh, S K; Ellingboe, J; Cochin, J

1989-12-01

Pulse frequency analysis of LH, PRL, testosterone, and cortisol was carried out with the Cluster Analysis Program in eight male cocaine abusers and eight aged-matched normal men. Four of the eight cocaine abusers had hyperprolactinemia (range, 22.08-44.65 micrograms/L). Cocaine users as a group had significantly higher mean peak height (P less than 0.02) than control subjects. Cocaine users with hyperprolactinemia had higher mean peak height than control subjects or cocaine users with normal PRL levels (P less than 0.01). Cocaine users with hyperprolactinemia also had higher mean amplitude increments than control subjects (P less than 0.02). Cocaine users with hyperprolactinemia had a higher mean valley than controls (P less than 0.01) and cocaine users with normal PRL levels (P less than 0.03). However, there were no significant differences in PRL peak frequency, peak duration, or interpulse intervals between cocaine users with or without hyperprolactinemia and control subjects. There were minimal differences between cocaine users and control subjects in pulse frequency analysis of LH parameters; the small differences in mean LH levels and average interpulse interval were not in the abnormal range and were probably not biologically significant. No differences between cocaine users and controls were detected for pulse frequency analysis of testosterone or cortisol. Cocaine-induced hyperprolactinemia may contribute to disorders of sexual and reproductive function in men who abuse the drug, and recent reports that PRL modulates immune function suggest that cocaine-induced derangements of PRL secretion may also contribute to cocaine-related comorbidity in infectious disease. Since cocaine users with hyperprolactinemia had a higher mean valley as well as a higher peak pulse PRL height than control subjects, but did not have greater PRL pulse frequencies, we conclude that hyperprolactinemia in these men may be due to a cocaine-induced derangement of dopaminergic inhibition of basal PRL secretion.

Ranking Hearing Aid Input-Output Functions for Understanding Low-, Conversational-, and High-Level Speech in Multitalker Babble

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chung, King; Killion, Mead C.; Christensen, Laurel A.

2007-01-01

Purpose: To determine the rankings of 6 input-output functions for understanding low-level, conversational, and high-level speech in multitalker babble without manipulating volume control for listeners with normal hearing, flat sensorineural hearing loss, and mildly sloping sensorineural hearing loss. Method: Peak clipping, compression limiting,…

Preventive activity of banana peel polyphenols on CCl4-induced experimental hepatic injury in Kunming mice.

PubMed

Wang, Rui; Feng, Xia; Zhu, Kai; Zhao, Xin; Suo, Huayi

2016-05-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the preventive effects of banana peel polyphenols (BPPs) against hepatic injury. Mice were divide into normal, control, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg banana peel polyphenol and silymarin groups. All the mice except normal mice were induced with hepatic damage using CCl 4 . The serum and tissue levels of mice were determined by a kit and the tissues were further examined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis. BPPs reduced the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase in a CCl 4 -induced mouse model of hepatic injury. Furthermore, BPPs reduced the levels of malondialdehyde and triglyceride, while increasing glutathione levels in the serum and liver tissues of mice. In addition, the effects of 200 mg/kg treatment were more evident, and these effects were comparable to those of the drug silymarin. Serum levels of the cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon-γ, were reduced in the mice treated with BPPs compared with injury control group mice, and these levels were comparable to those of the normal and silymarin-treated groups. Histopathological examination indicated that BPPs were able to reduce the extent of CCl 4 -induced liver tissue injury and protect the liver cells. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression levels of the inflammation-associated factors cyclooxygenase-2, nitric oxide synthase, TNF-α and IL-1β were reduced in mice treated with BPPs compared with the control group mice. Mice that received 200 mg/kg BPP exhibited reduced expression levels of these factors compared with mice that received 100 mg/kg BPP. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that BPPs exert a good preventive effect against hepatic injury.

Dysregulation of Galectin-3. Implications for Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Pulmonary Fibrosis

PubMed Central

Cullinane, Andrew R.; Yeager, Caroline; Dorward, Heidi; Carmona-Rivera, Carmelo; Wu, Hai Ping; Moss, Joel; O’Brien, Kevin J.; Nathan, Steven D.; Meyer, Keith C.; Rosas, Ivan O.; Helip-Wooley, Amanda; Huizing, Marjan; Gahl, William A.

2014-01-01

The etiology of Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) pulmonary fibrosis (HPSPF), a progressive interstitial lung disease with high mortality, is unknown. Galectin-3 is a β-galactoside–binding lectin with profibrotic effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the involvement of galectin-3 in HPSPF. Galectin-3 was measured by ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and immunoblotting in human specimens from subjects with HPS and control subjects. Mechanisms of galectin-3 accumulation were studied by quantitative RT-PCR, Northern blot analysis, membrane biotinylation assays, and rescue of HPS1-deficient cells by transfection. Bronchoalveolar lavage galectin-3 concentrations were significantly higher in HPSPF compared with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or that from normal volunteers, and correlated with disease severity. Galectin-3 immunostaining was increased in HPSPF compared with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or normal lung tissue. Fibroblasts from subjects with HPS subtypes associated with pulmonary fibrosis had increased galectin-3 protein expression compared with cells from nonfibrotic HPS subtypes. Galectin-3 protein accumulation was associated with reduced Galectin-3 mRNA, normal Mucin 1 levels, and up-regulated microRNA-322 in HPSPF cells. Membrane biotinylation assays showed reduced galectin-3 and normal Mucin 1 expression at the plasma membrane in HPSPF cells compared with control cells, which suggests that galectin-3 is mistrafficked in these cells. Reconstitution of HPS1 cDNA into HPS1-deficient cells normalized galectin-3 protein and mRNA levels, as well as corrected galectin-3 trafficking to the membrane. Intracellular galectin-3 levels are regulated by HPS1 protein. Abnormal accumulation of galectin-3 may contribute to the pathogenesis of HPSPF. PMID:24134621

Coronary flow reserve in patients with diabetes mellitus and prediabetes.

PubMed

Atar, Asli I; Altuner, Tugba Kayhan; Bozbas, Huseyin; Korkmaz, Mehmet E

2012-07-01

Abnormalities of coronary microcirculation have been reported in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) even in the presence of normal coronary arteries. It is unknown when the microvascular effects on coronary arteries begin to appear in the DM disease course. Coronary flow reserve (CFR), determined by pharmacological stress transthoracic Doppler echocardiography, is a reliable indicator of coronary microvascular function. We sought to determine the coronary microvascular function of prediabetic patients compared to DM patients and normal population. Seventy-four subjects with normal coronary arteries were enrolled. DM and prediabetes were diagnosed according to American Diabetes Association criteria. All subjects had Doppler recordings of the left anterior descending artery with adenosine infusion at a rate of 0.014 mg/kg per minute. The demographical characteristics and laboratory findings of the three groups were similar (DM group: n = 25, mean age 62 ± 7 years, 19 females; prediabetic group: n = 25, mean age 64 ± 12 years, 21 females; control group: n = 24, mean age 63 ± 7 years, 15 females) except fasting glucose levels. CFR values of the three groups were significantly different (DM group: CFR = 1.75 ± 0.50; prediabetic group: CFR = 2.24 ± 0.43; control group: CFR = 2.38 ± 0.32, P < 0.001). CFR values of DM group were lower than those of prediabetic and control groups (DM vs. prediabetic: P < 0.001, DM vs. control: P < 0.001). However, CFR levels of prediabetic group were not different from those of the control group (P = 0.481). DM was an independent factor predictive of CFR < 2 (OR, 22.69; 95% CI, 6.47-79.51; P < 0.001). Coronary microvascular function seems to be normal in the prediabetic state, but dysfunction appears after DM becomes overt. © 2012, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hepatic steatosis in young lean insulin resistant women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Markou, Athina; Androulakis, Ioannis I; Mourmouris, Christos; Tsikkini, Ageliki; Samara, Christianna; Sougioultzis, Stavros; Piaditis, George; Kaltsas, Gregory

2010-03-01

To investigate the presence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in young lean women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance (IR). Case control study. Women with PCOS and healthy controls in a metabolic day ward. Seventeen young lean women with PCOS and 17 matched controls were studied prospectively. Fasting blood and a glucose tolerance test. Ovarian and liver ultrasonography, and computed tomography (CT) of the liver (women with PCOS only). Anthropometric variables, biochemical and hormonal parameters, and several IR indices were determined. Hepatic lipid content was assessed with ultrasonography and CT of the liver. Women with PCOS had higher androgen levels, and the IR indices, glucose and insulin area under the curve, QUICKI, MATSUDA, and HOMA, compared to controls. In addition to IR, women with PCOS had normal aminotransferase levels, and higher, although within the normal range, alkaline phosphatase levels compared with controls. Women with PCOS had no evidence of NAFLD by either ultrasonography or CT of the liver. Young lean women with PCOS and IR do not have evidence of NAFLD. Because of the presence of IR, follow-up is required to determine whether they are at risk of developing NAFLD. Copyright 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Relationship between blood glucose levels and salivary pH and buffering capacity in type II diabetes patients].

PubMed

Elkafri, I H; Mashlah, A; Shaqifa, A

2014-03-13

This study was evaluated the relationship between blood glucose levels and salivary pH and buffering capacity in type II diabetic patients. The sample comprised 210 participants (age ranged 40-60 years). Based on fasting blood glucose levels the participants were divided into 3 groups: controls with normal blood glucose levels; diabetic patients with levels ≤ 200 mg/dL; and diabetic patients with levels > 200 mg/dL. Salivary pH and buffering capacity were determined in a sample of resting (non-stimulated) saliva taken from each participant. Salivary pH levels in diabetic patients with blood glucose levels > 200 mg/dL were lower than in the controls and diabetic patients with levels ≤ 200 mg/dL. Salivary pH levels were comparable in controls and diabetic patients with blood glucose levels ≤ 200 mg/dL. Salivary buffering capacity in the 3 groups was comparable.

Tug fleet and ground operations schedules and controls. Volume 2: part 2, addenda

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

The results of a study to assess the tug safing requirements at postlanding are presented. The study considered the normal (green light) conditions from orbiter landing to completion of preparations for the next launch. Normal tug ground turnaround operations include handling and transportation activities and the performance of inspections, tests, and checkout functions. These activities dictate that hazards to ground personnel, the tug, GSE, facilities, and ecology be reduced to the lowest practical level consistent with program objectives, cost, and schedules. During flight operations, the tug contains energy sources that constitute potential hazards but are required for mission accomplishment. These potential hazards have been reduced to an acceptable level for flight operation by design features and by providing for control of energy sources.

Altered peripheral profile of blood cells in Alzheimer disease

PubMed Central

Chen, Si-Han; Bu, Xian-Le; Jin, Wang-Sheng; Shen, Lin-Lin; Wang, Jun; Zhuang, Zheng-Qian; Zhang, Tao; Zeng, Fan; Yao, Xiu-Qing; Zhou, Hua-Dong; Wang, Yan-Jiang

2017-01-01

Abstract Alzheimer disease (AD) has been made a global priority for its multifactorial pathogenesis and lack of disease-modifying therapies. We sought to investigate the changes of profile of blood routine in AD and its correlation with the disease severity. In all, 92 AD patients and 84 age and sex-matched normal controls were enrolled and their profiles of blood routine were evaluated. Alzheimer disease patients had increased levels of mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, red cell distribution width-standard deviation, mean platelet volume,and decreased levels of platelet distribution width, red blood cell, hematocrit, hemoglobin, lymphocyte, and basophil compared with normal controls. Alterations in quantity and quality of blood cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD and contribute to the disease progression. PMID:28538375

[Beta-endorphin and obesity. Possible pathogenetic implications].

PubMed

Giugliano, D; Saccomanno, F; Quatraro, A; Ceriello, A; Torella, R

1990-01-01

Several experimental data have documented the ability of both opiates and opioid peptides to stimulate food intake. On the other hand, the plasma beta-endorphin levels found in obese patients are higher than those observed in normal-weight controls, which may have pathogenetic implications. We have investigated the responses of plasma glucose, insulin, C-peptide and glucagon to an infusion of human beta-endorphin in formerly obese subjects who had obtained by dieting the normalization of body weight and in lean controls. The data show that: a) the increased plasma beta-endorphin concentrations found in human obesity are not corrected by normalization of body weight; b) formerly obese subjects behave as obese subjects in their metabolic and hormonal responses to beta-endorphin.

Metal ion levels in patients with stainless steel spinal instrumentation.

PubMed

McPhee, I Bruce; Swanson, Cheryl E

2007-08-15

Case-control study. To determine whether metal ion concentrations are elevated in patients with spinal instrumentation. Studies have shown that serum and urinary levels of component metal ions are abnormally elevated in patients with total joint arthroplasties. Little is known of metal ion release and concentrations in patients with spinal instrumentation. The study group consisted of patients who had undergone spinal instrumentation for various spinal disorders with a variety of stainless steel implants, 5 to 25 years previously. A group of volunteers without metal implants were controls. All subjects were tested for serum nickel, blood chromium, and random urine chromium/creatinine ratio estimation. The study group consisted of 32 patients with retained implants and 12 patients whose implants had been removed. There were 26 unmatched controls. There was no difference in serum nickel and blood chromium levels between all 3 groups. The mean urinary chromium/creatinine ratio for patients with implants and those with implants removed was significantly greater than controls (P < 0.001). The difference between study subgroups was not significant (P = 0.16). Of several patient and instrumentation variables, only the number of couplings approached significance for correlation with the urine chromium excretion (P = 0.07). Spinal implants do not raise the levels of serum nickel and blood chromium. There is evidence that metal ions are released from spinal implants and excreted in urine. The excretion of chromium in patients with spinal implants was significantly greater than normal controls although lower where the implants have been removed. The findings are consistent with low-grade release of ions from implants with rapid clearance, thus maintaining normal serum levels. Levels of metal ions in the body fluids probably do not reach a level that causes late side-effect; hence, routine removal of the implants cannot be recommended.

Agaricus blazei Murill as an efficient hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent against CCl4-induced liver injury in rats

PubMed Central

Al-Dbass, Abeer M.; Al- Daihan, Sooad K.; Bhat, Ramesa Shafi

2012-01-01

Agaricus blazei Murill is one of the very popular edible medicinal mushrooms. The present study investigated the protective effect of this biologically active mushroom on the tissue peroxidative damage and abnormal antioxidant levels in carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Male albino rats of Sprague–Dawley strain weighting (120–150 g) were categorized into five groups. The first group served as the normal control, the second and the third groups were treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract and carbon tetrachloride dose, respectively. Fourth group (protective group) was first treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract followed by carbon tetrachloride treatment and fifth (therapeutic group) with carbon tetrachloride first followed by Agaricus blazei Mushroom treatment. The wet fruiting bodies of mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill, crushed and suspended in distilled water was administered orally to the treated groups of male albino rats. The activities of various enzymes (aspartate and alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase), levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants (glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E) and level of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) were determined in the serum of all the experimental animals. Decrease in all the enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidant, along with an increase in the lipid peroxidative index (malondialdehyde) was found in all the carbon tetrachloride treated rats as compared with normal controls. Also increase level of non-enzymatic antioxidant along with the decrease level in malondialdehyde was found in all experimental animals which were treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract as compared with normal controls. The findings indicate that the extract of Agaricus blazei Murill can protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride induced oxidative damage in rats and is an efficient hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent against carbon tetrachloride induced liver injury. PMID:23961190

Agaricus blazei Murill as an efficient hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent against CCl4-induced liver injury in rats.

PubMed

Al-Dbass, Abeer M; Al-Daihan, Sooad K; Bhat, Ramesa Shafi

2012-07-01

Agaricus blazei Murill is one of the very popular edible medicinal mushrooms. The present study investigated the protective effect of this biologically active mushroom on the tissue peroxidative damage and abnormal antioxidant levels in carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Male albino rats of Sprague-Dawley strain weighting (120-150 g) were categorized into five groups. The first group served as the normal control, the second and the third groups were treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract and carbon tetrachloride dose, respectively. Fourth group (protective group) was first treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract followed by carbon tetrachloride treatment and fifth (therapeutic group) with carbon tetrachloride first followed by Agaricus blazei Mushroom treatment. The wet fruiting bodies of mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill, crushed and suspended in distilled water was administered orally to the treated groups of male albino rats. The activities of various enzymes (aspartate and alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase), levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants (glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E) and level of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) were determined in the serum of all the experimental animals. Decrease in all the enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidant, along with an increase in the lipid peroxidative index (malondialdehyde) was found in all the carbon tetrachloride treated rats as compared with normal controls. Also increase level of non-enzymatic antioxidant along with the decrease level in malondialdehyde was found in all experimental animals which were treated with Agaricus blazei Mushroom extract as compared with normal controls. The findings indicate that the extract of Agaricus blazei Murill can protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride induced oxidative damage in rats and is an efficient hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent against carbon tetrachloride induced liver injury.

Alteration of immune markers in a group of melancholic depressed patients and their response to electroconvulsive therapy.

PubMed

Rush, Gavin; O'Donovan, Aoife; Nagle, Laura; Conway, Catherine; McCrohan, AnnMaria; O'Farrelly, Cliona; Lucey, James V; Malone, Kevin M

2016-11-15

Immune system dysfunction is implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression, and is hypothesized to normalize with successful treatment. We aimed to investigate immune dysfunction in melancholic depression and its response to ECT. 55 melancholic depressed patients and 26 controls participated. 33 patients (60%) were referred for ECT. Blood samples were taken at baseline, one hour after the first ECT session, and 48h after ECT series completion. At baseline, melancholic depressed patients had significantly higher levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6, and lower levels of the regulatory cytokine TGF-β than controls. A significant surge in IL-6 levels was observed one hour after the first ECT session, but neither IL-6 nor TGF-β levels normalized after completion of ECT series. Seventy per cent (n=23) of ECT recipients showed clinical response and 42% (n=10) reached remission. Neither IL-6 nor TGF-β changes correlated with clinical improvement following ECT. No significant changes in IL-10, TNF-α and CRP levels were found in relation to melancholia or response to ECT. As a naturalistic study, some potential confounders could not be eliminated or controlled, including medication use. Melancholic depressed patients demonstrated a peripheral increase in IL-6 and reduction in TGF-β, which did not normalize despite clinical response to ECT. These findings may be consistent with emerging hypotheses of the role of inflammation in mediating neurotrophin expression. The implications of chronic inflammation in the melancholic depressed population for future medical health, particularly cardiovascular risk, are largely unknown and warrant further investigation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Serum adiponectin and resistin in relation to insulin resistance and markers of hyperandrogenism in lean and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Olszanecka-Glinianowicz, Magdalena; Kuglin, Dorota; Dąbkowska-Huć, Anna; Skałba, Piotr

2011-01-01

It seems that adipokines participate in disturbances of the function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between plasma adiponectin and resistin levels and insulin resistance and markers of hyperandrogenism in lean and obese PCOS women. Forty-one women with PCOS (22 lean and 19 obese) and 16 healthy lean women were enrolled. Body mass and height were measured and body mass index was calculated. In addition to serum glucose, lipids, androgens and insulin, adiponectin and resistin concentration were assessed in the fasting state. The insulin resistance was calculated based on the HOMA-IR. Similar serum resistin concentrations were found in both PCOS subgroups and controls. The obese PCOS subgroup was characterized by the lowest serum adiponectin level (10.8 ± 8.3, compared with 21.0 ± 15.1 in the normal weight PCOS subgroup and 26.7 ± 12.5 μg/ml in controls). There were no correlations between resistin and adiponectin levels and HOMA-IR values and serum androgen concentrations. Significant positive correlations between adiponectin to resistin ratio and plasma FSH (r = 0.49; p = 0.001) and LH (r = 0.45; p = 0.003) concentrations, and a negative correlation with free androgen index (r = -0.34; p = 0.03) in PCOS group were found. Obese but not normal weight PCOS women have lower adiponectin levels whereas resistin concentration did not differ in normal weight and obese PCOS compared to control subjects. We hypothesize that changes of the relative proportion of adiponectin to resistin, but not circulating adiponectin and resistin levels themselves, may play a role in hormonal disturbances but not in insulin resistance in PCOS. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

How are normal sleeping controls selected? A systematic review of cross-sectional insomnia studies and a standardized method to select healthy controls for sleep research.

PubMed

Beattie, Louise; Espie, Colin A; Kyle, Simon D; Biello, Stephany M

2015-06-01

There appears to be some inconsistency in how normal sleepers (controls) are selected and screened for participation in research studies for comparison with insomnia patients. The purpose of the current study is to assess and compare methods of identifying normal sleepers in insomnia studies, with reference to published standards. We systematically reviewed the literature on insomnia patients, which included control subjects. The resulting 37 articles were systematically reviewed with reference to the five criteria for normal sleep specified by Edinger et al. In summary, these criteria are as follows: evidence of sleep disruption, sleep scheduling, general health, substance/medication use, and other sleep disorders. We found sleep diaries, polysomnography (PSG), and clinical screening examinations to be widely used with both control subjects and insomnia participants. However, there are differences between research groups in the precise definitions applied to the components of normal sleep. We found that none of the reviewed studies applied all of the Edinger et al. criteria, and 16% met four criteria. In general, screening is applied most rigorously at the level of a clinical disorder, whether physical, psychiatric, or sleep. While the Edinger et al. criteria seem to be applied in some form by most researchers, there is scope to improve standards and definitions in this area. Ideally, different methods such as sleep diaries and questionnaires would be used concurrently with objective measures to ensure normal sleepers are identified, and descriptive information for control subjects would be reported. Here, we have devised working criteria and methods to be used for the assessment of normal sleepers. This would help clarify the nature of the control group, in contrast to insomnia subjects and other patient groups. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of a linseed oil diet on hibernation in yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventris).

PubMed

Hill, V L; Florant, G L

2000-02-01

The essential fatty acids (EFAs), alpha-linolenic acid (18:3,n-3) and linoleic acid (18:2,n-6) are known to be important for mammalian hibernation. In marmots (Marmota flaviventris), reducing both dietary EFAs alters hibernation patterns by causing an increase in energy expenditure, but hibernation still occurs. In this study, marmots fed a diet high in alpha-linolenic acid, with normal linoleic acid levels, had significantly (p < 0.05) more alpha-18:3 in their WAT and plasma unesterified fatty acids after 4 months than did marmots fed a control diet. During the winter, the control marmots hibernated normally while the marmots fed the alpha-18:3 diet did not hibernate, continued to eat, and lost less mass than the control group during the winter. These results suggest that alpha-18:3 may play a role in regulating normal hibernation behavior in marmots.

Training on Movement Figure-Ground Discrimination Remediates Low-Level Visual Timing Deficits in the Dorsal Stream, Improving High-Level Cognitive Functioning, Including Attention, Reading Fluency, and Working Memory.

PubMed

Lawton, Teri; Shelley-Tremblay, John

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether neurotraining to discriminate a moving test pattern relative to a stationary background, figure-ground discrimination, improves vision and cognitive functioning in dyslexics, as well as typically-developing normal students. We predict that improving the speed and sensitivity of figure-ground movement discrimination ( PATH to Reading neurotraining) acts to remediate visual timing deficits in the dorsal stream, thereby improving processing speed, reading fluency, and the executive control functions of attention and working memory in both dyslexic and normal students who had PATH neurotraining more than in those students who had no neurotraining. This prediction was evaluated by measuring whether dyslexic and normal students improved on standardized tests of cognitive skills following neurotraining exercises, more than following computer-based guided reading ( Raz-Kids ( RK )). The neurotraining used in this study was visually-based training designed to improve magnocellular function at both low and high levels in the dorsal stream: the input to the executive control networks coding working memory and attention. This approach represents a paradigm shift from the phonologically-based treatment for dyslexia, which concentrates on high-level speech and reading areas. This randomized controlled-validation study was conducted by training the entire second and third grade classrooms (42 students) for 30 min twice a week before guided reading. Standardized tests were administered at the beginning and end of 12-weeks of intervention training to evaluate improvements in academic skills. Only movement-discrimination training remediated both low-level visual timing deficits and high-level cognitive functioning, including selective and sustained attention, reading fluency and working memory for both dyslexic and normal students. Remediating visual timing deficits in the dorsal stream revealed the causal role of visual movement discrimination training in improving high-level cognitive functions such as attention, reading acquisition and working memory. This study supports the hypothesis that faulty timing in synchronizing the activity of magnocellular with parvocellular visual pathways in the dorsal stream is a fundamental cause of dyslexia and being at-risk for reading problems in normal students, and argues against the assumption that reading deficiencies in dyslexia are caused by phonological or language deficits, requiring a paradigm shift from phonologically-based treatment of dyslexia to a visually-based treatment. This study shows that visual movement-discrimination can be used not only to diagnose dyslexia early, but also for its successful treatment, so that reading problems do not prevent children from readily learning.

Training on Movement Figure-Ground Discrimination Remediates Low-Level Visual Timing Deficits in the Dorsal Stream, Improving High-Level Cognitive Functioning, Including Attention, Reading Fluency, and Working Memory

PubMed Central

Lawton, Teri; Shelley-Tremblay, John

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether neurotraining to discriminate a moving test pattern relative to a stationary background, figure-ground discrimination, improves vision and cognitive functioning in dyslexics, as well as typically-developing normal students. We predict that improving the speed and sensitivity of figure-ground movement discrimination (PATH to Reading neurotraining) acts to remediate visual timing deficits in the dorsal stream, thereby improving processing speed, reading fluency, and the executive control functions of attention and working memory in both dyslexic and normal students who had PATH neurotraining more than in those students who had no neurotraining. This prediction was evaluated by measuring whether dyslexic and normal students improved on standardized tests of cognitive skills following neurotraining exercises, more than following computer-based guided reading (Raz-Kids (RK)). The neurotraining used in this study was visually-based training designed to improve magnocellular function at both low and high levels in the dorsal stream: the input to the executive control networks coding working memory and attention. This approach represents a paradigm shift from the phonologically-based treatment for dyslexia, which concentrates on high-level speech and reading areas. This randomized controlled-validation study was conducted by training the entire second and third grade classrooms (42 students) for 30 min twice a week before guided reading. Standardized tests were administered at the beginning and end of 12-weeks of intervention training to evaluate improvements in academic skills. Only movement-discrimination training remediated both low-level visual timing deficits and high-level cognitive functioning, including selective and sustained attention, reading fluency and working memory for both dyslexic and normal students. Remediating visual timing deficits in the dorsal stream revealed the causal role of visual movement discrimination training in improving high-level cognitive functions such as attention, reading acquisition and working memory. This study supports the hypothesis that faulty timing in synchronizing the activity of magnocellular with parvocellular visual pathways in the dorsal stream is a fundamental cause of dyslexia and being at-risk for reading problems in normal students, and argues against the assumption that reading deficiencies in dyslexia are caused by phonological or language deficits, requiring a paradigm shift from phonologically-based treatment of dyslexia to a visually-based treatment. This study shows that visual movement-discrimination can be used not only to diagnose dyslexia early, but also for its successful treatment, so that reading problems do not prevent children from readily learning. PMID:28555097

Investigation on the Bay of Bengal branch of summer monsoon during normal and delayed onset over Gangetic West Bengal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Debanjana; Mondal, Paramita; Saha, Poulomi; Chaudhuri, Sutapa

2018-06-01

The regional features of Bay of Bengal (BOB) branch of summer monsoon (SM) are examined to identify the causes of delayed onset over Gangetic West Bengal (GWB) in the years having normal onset over Kerala coast. The normal onset over both GWB and Kerala is designated as Normal-Normal (NN) years, while delayed onset over GWB and normal onset over Kerala is termed Normal-Delayed (ND) years. The temperature gradient (TTg), winds at 850 and 150 hPa pressure levels, sea-surface temperature (SST), outgoing long wave radiation (OLR), low-level moisture convergence, instability, and rainfall rate (RR) are analyzed in this study using National Centers for Environmental Prediction and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reanalysis dataset during the period from 1981 to 2015. The result shows that TTg over BOB plays a significant role in controlling the movement of BOB branch of SM. Warm SST is observed to prevail over north BOB during NN years. The divergence at 150 hPa and convergence at 850 hPa pressure levels are found to influence the propagation of BOB branch of SM during both NN and ND years. The winds at 850 hPa level converge over BOB and GWB during NN years, whereas winds converge more over eastern BOB and Indo-Chinese peninsula during ND years. Result depicts abundance of low-level (850-1000 hPa) moisture over eastern BOB and Indo-Chinese peninsula during ND years, whereas moisture is observed to converge over north and north-eastern BOB during NN years. The RR is observed to be slightly higher during NN than ND years. However, it may not be concluded from the analysis that delayed onset over GWB will be responsible for less RR over the study region.

Dietary protein intake, energy deficit, and nitrogen balance in normal-weight adults: a randomized controlled

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Consuming protein at levels higher than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) may be metabolically advantageous for overweight and obese individuals attempting weight loss. However, the dose-response characteristics that define the optimal level of dietary protein necessary to sustain measures of...

Tooth contact in patients with temporomandibular disorders.

PubMed

Glaros, Alan G; Williams, Karen; Lausten, Leonard; Friesen, Lynn R

2005-07-01

Both experimental and retrospective studies suggest a link between parafunctions and pain in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients. To investigate the role of parafunctions in TMD, experience sampling methodology was used as a prospective test of the hypothesis that patients with TMD have higher levels of tooth contact and tension than non-TMD controls. Three groups of TMD patients and a group of normal controls carried pagers for one week, were contacted approximately every two hours by an automated calling system, and completed questionnaires assessing tooth contact, tension, and pain at each contact. Results showed that tooth contact was much more frequent among normal controls than is commonly presumed. Patients with myofascial pain with/without arthralgia reported more frequent contact, higher intensity contact, and more tension than patients with disk displacement or normal controls. Increased masticatory muscle activity responsible for tooth contact and tension may be an important mechanism in the etiology and maintenance of the myofascial pain and arthralgia of TMD.

Cancer-specific SNPs originate from low-level heteroplasmic variants in human mitochondrial genomes of a matched cell line pair.

PubMed

Hedberg, Annica; Knutsen, Erik; Løvhaugen, Anne Silje; Jørgensen, Tor Erik; Perander, Maria; Johansen, Steinar D

2018-04-19

Low-level mitochondrial heteroplasmy is a common phenomenon in both normal and cancer cells. Here, we investigate the link between low-level heteroplasmy and mitogenome mutations in a human breast cancer matched cell line by high-throughput sequencing. We identified 23 heteroplasmic sites, of which 15 were common between normal cells (Hs578Bst) and cancer cells (Hs578T). Most sites were clustered within the highly conserved Complex IV and ribosomal RNA genes. Two heteroplasmic variants in normal cells were found as fixed mutations in cancer cells. This indicates a positive selection of these variants in cancer cells. RNA-Seq analysis identified upregulated L-strand specific transcripts in cancer cells, which include three mitochondrial long non-coding RNA molecules. We hypothesize that this is due to two cancer cell-specific mutations in the control region.

Normal adiponectin levels despite abnormal glucose tolerance (or diabetes) and inflammation in adult patients with cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Hammana, I; Malet, A; Costa, M; Brochiero, E; Berthiaume, Y; Potvin, S; Chiasson, J-L; Coderre, L; Rabasa-Lhoret, R

2007-06-01

Circulating adiponectin levels are negatively associated with glucose intolerance, inflammation and central adiposity. Since these conditions are common in cystic fibrosis (CF), we examined whether adiponectin values are altered in these patients. To determine if CF patients have altered adiponectin levels and if these levels correlate with glucose tolerance categories (normal, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD)), insulin resistance or inflammatory markers such as fibrinogen and C-reactive protein (CRP). Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) were performed and adiponectin levels were measured in 90 CF patients not known to be diabetic and 15 healthy controls matched for age, sex and body mass index (BMI). Inflammatory markers, serum albumin concentrations and the clinical status of CF patients (i.e. pulmonary function) were also examined. CF pathology was characterized by a high prevalence (43.5%) of glucose tolerance abnormalities: 26.5% of IGT and 17.0% of newly diagnosed CFRD. CF patients also presented systemic inflammation as revealed by a significant increase of fibrinogen (P=0.029) in all patients and higher CRP levels in CFRD patients compared to the controls (P<0.05). On the other hand, CF and control subjects had similar albumin serum concentration. While CF patients and controls had similar serum adiponectin values, women had significantly higher hormone levels than men (P<0.001). Adiponectin levels did not correlate with glucose tolerance, inflammatory markers or insulin resistance. On the other hand, they correlated positively with both total and HDL-cholesterol (P<0.001). CF patients did not show any alterations in adiponectin levels despite insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and sub clinical chronic inflammation. Thus, CF appears to be one of the rare conditions in which discordance between adiponectin values and insulin resistance or inflammation is evident.

Effect of aluminum chloride on blood glucose level and lipid profile in normal, diabetic and treated diabetic rats.

PubMed

Konda, Venugopala Rao; Eerike, Madhavi; Chary, R Prasanth; Arunachalam, Ruckmani; Yeddula, Venkata Ramana; Meti, Vinayak; Devi, T Sobita

2017-01-01

The objectives of the study were to assess evaluate the effects of aluminum chloride (AlCl 3 ) on blood glucose and lipid levels in normal, diabetic, and glibenclamide-treated diabetic rats. Forty-two male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups of six each. Group I was normal control, Groups II and III were given AlCl 3 50 and 100 mg/kg, and Group IV to VII were administered with streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Group IV was diabetic control, Group V in addition was given AlCl 3 50 mg/kg, Group VI glibenclamide (10 mg/kg), and Group VII glibenclamide and AlCl 3 (50 mg/kg) per-oral daily for 28 days. Blood glucose and lipid levels were estimated at base line, after diabetes was set in and on the last day of study. Histopathological changes in pancreas, liver, and kidney were studied. No significant change was observed in blood glucose and lipid levels in Group I. Group II and III showed a dose-dependent significant increase in blood glucose was observed. Group V had a reduction in blood glucose but not to the nondiabetic level. Group VI had significant reduction in blood sugar. In Group VII, treated with glibenclamide and AlCl 3 , there was no significant change in blood glucose reduction compared to Group VI. Lipid levels were reduced in groups treated with AlCl 3 and glibenclamide and not in other groups. Gross tissue damage was seen in pancreas in STZ group and in liver and kidney in AlCl 3 groups. AlCl 3 administration in Wistar rats caused in significant hyperglycemia in normal rats, hypoglycemia in diabetic rats, and did not influenced hypoglycemic effect of glibenclamide and in addition, resulted in reduction in lipid levels.

Postprocedural pain in shoulder arthrography: differences between using preservative-free normal saline and normal saline with benzyl alcohol as an intraarticular contrast diluent.

PubMed

Storey, Troy F; Gilbride, George; Clifford, Kelly

2014-11-01

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the effect of benzyl alcohol, a common preservative in normal saline, on postprocedural pain after intraarticular injection for direct shoulder MR arthrography. From April 2011 through January 2013, 138 patients underwent direct shoulder MR arthrography. Using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Scale, patients were asked to report their shoulder pain level immediately before and immediately after the procedure and then were contacted by telephone 6, 24, and 48 hours after the procedure. Fourteen patients did not receive the prescribed amount of contrast agent for diagnostic reasons or did not complete follow-up. Sixty-two patients received an intraarticular solution including preservative-free normal saline (control group) and 62 patients received an intraarticular solution including normal saline with 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a contrast diluent (test group). Patients were randomized as to which intraarticular diluent they received. Fluoroscopic and MR images were reviewed for extracapsular contrast agent administration or extravasation, full-thickness rotator cuff tears, and adhesive capsulitis. The effect of preservative versus control on pain level was estimated with multiple regression, which included time after procedure as the covariate and accounted for repeated measures over patients. Pain scale scores were significantly (p = 0.0382) higher (0.79 units; 95% CI, 0.034-1.154) with benzyl alcohol preservative compared with control (saline). In both study arms, the pain scale scores decreased slightly after the procedure, increased by roughly 1 unit over baseline for the test group and 0.3 unit over baseline for the control group by 6 hours after the procedure, were 0.50 unit over baseline for the test group and 0.12 unit over baseline for the control group at 24 hours, then fell to be slightly greater than baseline at 48 hours with benzyl alcohol and slightly less than baseline without benzyl alcohol. These trends over time were highly significant (p < 0.0001). Shoulder arthrography is often associated with postprocedural discomfort that begins immediately after the procedure and resolves by 48 hours. There is significantly increased patient discomfort at 6 and 48 hours when using normal saline preserved with benzyl alcohol as a diluent compared with using normal saline without preservative as a diluent.

Diagnostic value of the plasmatic ADM level for early ectopic pregnancy.

PubMed

Yan, Qi; Lu, Qi; Tao, Yu; Wang, Yu-Dong; Zhao, Wen-Xia

2015-01-01

To analyze the plasmatic ADM level in early pregnancy and to investigate the diagnostic value of ADM in early ectopic pregnancy (EP). 70 patients with EP who had menopause for 5~8 weeks were included as study group, while 155 women with normal intrauterine pregnancy were also included as control group. The correlation between ADM level and menopause weeks was statistically analyzed and ROC curve was used to identify the diagnostic value of ADM. (1) In 155 cases of normal intrauterine pregnancy, the plasmatic ADM level was increased with menopause weeks in linear relationship, and the correlation coefficient (R) was 0.991 (P<0.05). In 70 patients with EP, no significant increase was found with menopause weeks and no linear relationship can be found between ADM level and menopause weeks in EP group. The correlation coefficient (R) was 0.744 (P>0.05). (2) The multiple of median of plasmatic ADM level in EP group of menopause for 8 weeks was obviously lower than the intrauterine control group (P<0.01). (3) ROC curve was used to analyze the cut-off value of ADM level in the diagnosis of EP, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.523 (P>0.05) regardless of menopause weeks, however, the area under the ROC curve was 0.702 (P<0.05) at 8 weeks after menopause with sensitivity of 53.50% and specificity of 85.00%. Different from normal intrauterine pregnancy, plasmatic ADM level in early EP was relatively lower and no significant increase was found with menopause weeks; further studies are still needed for plasmatic ADM level as an indicator in the early diagnosis of EP.

Evaluation of the Hepato and Nephron-Protective Effect of a Polyherbal Mixture using Wistar Albino Rats

PubMed Central

Adebesin, Olumide Adedapo; Okpuzor, Joy

2014-01-01

Aim: A polyherbal formulation prepared from a mixture of leaves of Gongronema latifolia, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina (GOV) was evaluated for hepato-nephro protective properties against acetaminophen-induced toxicity in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: Normal Wistar albino rats were orally treated with different doses of GOV extract (2, 4 and 8 g/kg b. wt), distilled water and some standard hepatoprotective drugs such as Liv 52 and silymarin for 14 days. However, a day prior to the 14th day, 3 g/kg body weight dose of Acetaminophen (APAP) was administered p.o. 1h before GOV and the standard drugs to induce hepatic and renal damage. The normal control was setup which received only distilled water. The serum levels of liver marker enzymes, biochemical analytes, antioxidant enzymes and hematological parameters were monitored. Results: The results showed that pretreatment of experimental animals with a different doses of the polyherbal formulation dose dependently caused a significant (p≤0.05) increase in the levels of most of the measured hematological parameters but significantly (p≤0.05) reduced the levels of MCV and monocytes when compared to the APAP induced toxin control group. Rats pretreated with GOV exhibited significant (p < 0.05) increase in serum levels of ALP, ALT, AST, GGT, LDH, Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Urea and a subsequent decrease in Albumin, Creatine and Total protein when compared to the normal rats. This trend in enzyme and biochemical analytes levels were significantly (p < 0.05) reversed when compared to toxin control group. GOV significantly (p < 0.05) and dose dependently increased the serum, kidney and hepatic CAT, GPx, GSH, GST, SOD and total protein activity in APAP induced damage in rats compared to the toxin control groups. Conclusion: The data from this study suggest that the polyherbal formulation possess hepato and nephron-protective potential against acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity in rats, thus providing scientific rationale for its use in traditional medicine for the treatment of liver diseases. PMID:25121002

Subgroup of ADNI Normal Controls Characterized by Atrophy and Cognitive Decline Associated With Vascular Damage

PubMed Central

Nettiksimmons, Jasmine; Beckett, Laurel; Schwarz, Christopher; Carmichael, Owen; Fletcher, Evan; DeCarli, Charles

2013-01-01

Previous work examining Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) normal controls using cluster analysis identified a subgroup characterized by substantial brain atrophy and white matter hyperintensities (WMH). We hypothesized that these effects could be related to vascular damage. Fifty-three individuals in the suspected vascular cluster (Normal 2) were compared with 31 individuals from the cluster characterized as healthy/typical (Normal 1) on a variety of outcomes, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, vascular risk factors and outcomes, cognitive trajectory, and medications for vascular conditions. Normal 2 was significantly older but did not differ on ApoE4+ prevalence. Normal 2 differed significantly from Normal 1 on all MRI measures but not on Amyloid-Beta1-42 or total tau protein. Normal 2 had significantly higher body mass index (BMI), Hachinksi score, and creatinine levels, and took significantly more medications for vascular conditions. Normal 2 had marginally significantly higher triglycerides and blood glucose. Normal 2 had a worse cognitive trajectory on the Rey’s Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) 30-min delay test and the Functional Activity Questionnaire (FAQ). Cerebral atrophy associated with multiple vascular risks is common among cognitively normal individuals, forming a distinct subgroup with significantly increased cognitive decline. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical impact of these findings. PMID:23527743

Customized Internal Reference Controls for Improved Assessment of Circulating MicroRNAs in Disease.

PubMed

Schlosser, Kenny; McIntyre, Lauralyn A; White, R James; Stewart, Duncan J

2015-01-01

Altered levels of circulating extracellular miRNA in plasma and serum have shown promise as non-invasive biomarkers of disease. However, unlike the assessment of cellular miRNA levels for which there are accepted housekeeping genes, analogous reference controls for normalization of circulating miRNA are lacking. Here, we provide an approach to identify and validate circulating miRNA reference controls on a de novo basis, and demonstrate the advantages of these customized internal controls in different disease settings. Importantly, these internal controls overcome key limitations of external spike-in controls. Using a global RT-qPCR screen of 1066 miRNAs in plasma from pulmonary hypertension patients (PAH) and healthy subjects as a case example, we identified a large pool of initial candidate miRNAs that were systematically ranked according to their plasma level stability using a predefined algorithm. The performance of the top candidates was validated against multiple comparators, and in a second independent cohort of PAH and control subjects. The broader utility of this approach was demonstrated in a completely different disease setting with 372 miRNAs screened in plasma from septic shock patients and healthy controls. Normalization of data with specific internal reference controls significantly reduced the overall variation in circulating miRNA levels between subjects (relative to raw data), provided a more balanced distribution of up- and down-regulated miRNAs, replicated the results obtained by the benchmark geometric averaging of all detected miRNAs, and outperformed the commonly used external spike-in strategy. We demonstrate the feasibility of identifying circulating reference controls that can reduce extraneous technical variations, and improve the assessment of disease-related changes in plasma miRNA levels. This study provides a novel conceptual framework that addresses a critical and previously unmet need if circulating miRNAs are to advance as reliable diagnostic tools in medicine.

Customized Internal Reference Controls for Improved Assessment of Circulating MicroRNAs in Disease

PubMed Central

Schlosser, Kenny; McIntyre, Lauralyn A.; White, R. James; Stewart, Duncan J.

2015-01-01

Background Altered levels of circulating extracellular miRNA in plasma and serum have shown promise as non-invasive biomarkers of disease. However, unlike the assessment of cellular miRNA levels for which there are accepted housekeeping genes, analogous reference controls for normalization of circulating miRNA are lacking. Here, we provide an approach to identify and validate circulating miRNA reference controls on a de novo basis, and demonstrate the advantages of these customized internal controls in different disease settings. Importantly, these internal controls overcome key limitations of external spike-in controls. Methods Using a global RT-qPCR screen of 1066 miRNAs in plasma from pulmonary hypertension patients (PAH) and healthy subjects as a case example, we identified a large pool of initial candidate miRNAs that were systematically ranked according to their plasma level stability using a predefined algorithm. The performance of the top candidates was validated against multiple comparators, and in a second independent cohort of PAH and control subjects. The broader utility of this approach was demonstrated in a completely different disease setting with 372 miRNAs screened in plasma from septic shock patients and healthy controls. Results Normalization of data with specific internal reference controls significantly reduced the overall variation in circulating miRNA levels between subjects (relative to raw data), provided a more balanced distribution of up- and down-regulated miRNAs, replicated the results obtained by the benchmark geometric averaging of all detected miRNAs, and outperformed the commonly used external spike-in strategy. Conclusions We demonstrate the feasibility of identifying circulating reference controls that can reduce extraneous technical variations, and improve the assessment of disease-related changes in plasma miRNA levels. This study provides a novel conceptual framework that addresses a critical and previously unmet need if circulating miRNAs are to advance as reliable diagnostic tools in medicine. PMID:26010841

Failed upregulation of TFAM protein and mitochondrial DNA in oxidatively deficient fibers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease locomotor muscle.

PubMed

Konokhova, Yana; Spendiff, Sally; Jagoe, R Thomas; Aare, Sudhakar; Kapchinsky, Sophia; MacMillan, Norah J; Rozakis, Paul; Picard, Martin; Aubertin-Leheudre, Mylène; Pion, Charlotte H; Bourbeau, Jean; Hepple, Russell T; Taivassalo, Tanja

2016-01-01

Low mitochondrial content and oxidative capacity are well-established features of locomotor muscle dysfunction, a prevalent and debilitating systemic occurrence in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although the exact cause is not firmly established, physical inactivity and oxidative stress are among the proposed underlying mechanisms. Here, we assess the impact of COPD pathophysiology on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity, biogenesis, and cellular oxidative capacity in locomotor muscle of COPD patients and healthy controls. We hypothesized that the high oxidative stress environment of COPD muscle would yield a higher presence of deletion-containing mtDNA and oxidative-deficient fibers and impaired capacity for mitochondrial biogenesis. Vastus lateralis biopsies were analyzed from 29 COPD patients and 19 healthy age-matched controls for the presence of mtDNA deletions, levels of oxidatively damaged DNA, mtDNA copy number, and regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis as well the proportion of oxidative-deficient fibers (detected histologically as cytochrome c oxidase-deficient, succinate dehydrogenase positive (COX(-)/SDH(+) )). Additionally, mtDNA copy number and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) content were measured in laser captured COX(-)SDH(+) and normal single fibers of both COPD and controls. Compared to controls, COPD muscle exhibited significantly higher levels of oxidatively damaged DNA (8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels = 387 ± 41 vs. 258 ± 21 pg/mL) and higher prevalence of mtDNA deletions (74 vs. 15 % of subjects in each group), which was accompanied by a higher abundance of oxidative-deficient fibers (8.0 ± 2.1 vs. 1.5 ± 0.4 %). Interestingly, COPD patients with mtDNA deletions had higher levels of 8-OHdG (457 ± 46 pg/mL) and longer smoking history (66.3 ± 7.5 years) than patients without deletions (197 ± 29 pg/mL; 38.0 ± 7.3 years). Transcript levels of regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism were upregulated in COPD compared to controls. However, single fiber analyses of COX(-)/SDH(+) and normal fibers exposed an impairment in mitochondrial biogenesis in COPD; in healthy controls, we detected a marked upregulation of mtDNA copy number and TFAM protein in COX(-)/SDH(+) compared to normal fibers, reflecting the expected compensatory attempt by the oxidative-deficient cells to increase energy levels; in contrast, they were similar between COX(-)/SDH(+) and normal fibers in COPD patients. Taken together, these findings suggest that although the signaling factors regulating mitochondrial biogenesis are increased in COPD muscle, impairment in the translation of these signals prevents the restoration of normal oxidative capacity. Single fiber analyses provide the first substantive evidence that low muscle oxidative capacity in COPD cannot be explained by physical inactivity alone and is likely driven by the disease pathophysiology.

Cerebral blood flow changes during sodium-lactate-induced panic attacks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stewart, R.S.; Devous, M.D. Sr.; Rush, A.J.

1988-04-01

Dynamic single-photon emission computed axial tomography (CAT) with inhaled xenon-133 was used to measure regional cerebral blood flow in 10 drug-free patients with DSM-III-diagnosed panic disorder and in five normal control subjects. All subjects underwent regional cerebral blood flow studies while at rest or during normal saline infusion and during sodium lactate infusion. Six of the 10 patients and none of the control subjects experienced lactate-induced panic attacks. Lactate infusion markedly raised hemispheric blood flow levels in both control subjects and patients who did not panic. Patients who did panic experienced either a minimal increase or a decrease in hemisphericmore » blood flow.« less

Infertility in transgenic mice overexpressing the bovine growth hormone gene: luteal failure secondary to prolactin deficiency.

PubMed

Cecim, M; Kerr, J; Bartke, A

1995-05-01

Overexpression of growth hormone (GH) in transgenic mice is associated with various degrees of impairment of female reproductive functions. Transgenic PEPCK.bGH mice express high GH levels, and only around 20% of the females will carry gestation to Day 7. The objective of the present study was to investigate luteal function in PEPCK.bGH mice during early pregnancy, when CL are fully dependent on the pituitary. Plasma progesterone levels measured on Days 2 or 7 postcoitum (p.c.) were lower in transgenic than in normal females. In transgenic females with a previous history of infertility, daily injections of 1 mg progesterone starting on Day 2 p.c. significantly increased the proportion of animals pregnant on Day 7. When ovaries from transgenic mice were transplanted into ovariectomized normal littermates, the recipients exhibited normal vaginal cycles and responded to mating by vaginal cytology changes consistent with pseudopregnancy. In contrast, ovariectomized transgenic females bearing transplants of ovaries from normal mice had slightly prolonged estrous cycles and failed to become pseudopregnant after mating. Plasma progesterone levels on Days 2 and 7 p.c. in normal females with transgenic ovaries were not different from plasma progesterone levels measured in normal females into which normal ovaries had been transplanted. Twice-daily injections of 100 micrograms of prolactin (PRL) in saline or in polyvinylpyrrolidone starting on the evening of Day 2 p.c. were able to rescue luteal function. The proportion of PRL-injected transgenic animals that were pregnant on Day 7 was significantly higher than that of saline-injected transgenic controls and resembled the pregnancy rate of normal animals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Serum Antioxidant Status in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Hassan, Iffat; Sajad, Peerzada; Majid, Sabiya; Hassan, Tehseen

2013-01-01

Background: Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a central event in pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Systemic sclerosis is one of such diseases. The oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidants in the serum is believed to be one of the factors in causing this dysfunction. Aims: The aim of this case control study was to compare the levels of antioxidants in the serum of patients with systemic sclerosis and the normal age and sex matched controls. Materials and Methods: Our study consisted of 16 successively admitted patients with systemic sclerosis and 16 healthy, age and sex matched controls. The age group of patient's ranged between 25 and 55 years. The duration of the disease in patients ranged from 1 to 8 years. The serum of patients and controls were assayed for the levels of antioxidants (GSH, NO, MDA, SOD and GPX) by spectrophotometry. The statistical method of analysis used was the one sample t-test. Results: The median levels of antioxidants in the control patients were: SOD-4.14 units/ml; GSH-4.76 units/ml; NO-5.58 nmol/l; MDA-0.53 nmol/l and GPX-49 μmol/l. The levels of NO, GSH and SOD were decreased in these patients with a significant P value (<0.001) whereas the levels of GPX and MDA were normal to increased with a significant P value. Conclusion: The depletion of antioxidants and oxidative stress in serum might be responsible for the vascular dysfunction and other hallmark manifestations of systemic sclerosis. Therefore micronutrient antioxidant supplements may be of therapeutic value. PMID:23723482

Plasma Homocysteine, Serum Folic Acid, Serum Vitamin B12, Serum Vitamin B6, MTHFR, and Risk of Normal-Tension Glaucoma.

PubMed

Li, Jinmiao; Xu, Fan; Zeng, Rui; Gong, Haijun; Lan, Yuqing

2016-02-01

This meta-analysis aims to comprehensively evaluate the association between total homocysteine (tHcy) levels, serum folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6 levels, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T genotype, and risk of normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). A systematic search of the EMBASE and PubMed databases was performed to evaluate plasma tHcy levels, serum folic acid, B vitamins' mean difference, and odds ratios of MTHFR C677T genotype between cases and controls. A total of 7 studies including 458 cases and 555 controls meeting the inclusion criteria were involved in this meta-analysis. There were 4 studies for tHcy (149 cases and 148 controls), 2 studies for vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate (90 cases and 82 controls), and 4 studies for MTHFR (343 cases and 449 controls). Overall, the mean plasma tHcy levels, serum folic acids, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6 levels were 1.16 μmol/L [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.13, 2.45], -0.62 μmol/L (95% CI, -1.98, 0.74), 5.81 μmol/L (95% CI, -3.53, 15.14), and -16.79 μmol/L (95% CI, -86.09, 52.51). MTHFR TT genotype was found to be unrelated to NTG risk (odds ratio=1.08; 95% CI, 0.69, 1.69). NTG is not associated with elevated plasma tHcy, serum folic acid, serum vitamin B12, serum vitamin B6, and MTHFR C677T genotype.

Low plasma PDGF-BB levels are associated with estradiol in postmenopausal osteoporosis: PDGF-BB mediated by estradiol in women.

PubMed

Tang, Lanhua; Xia, Zhuying; Luo, Zhongwei; Long, Haitao; Zhu, Yong; Zhao, Shushan

2017-08-01

Objective This study aimed to investigate the association between low plasma Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) levels and oestradiol in Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). Methods This prospective study measured plasma PDGF-BB and oestradiol levels in outpatients who were admitted to our hospital. Participants were screened and then allocated to three groups: normal young women, postmenopausal control, and PMOP. Additionally, Sprague-Dawley rats underwent either sham surgery or bilateral ovariectomy (OVX), and were divided into the following groups: sham, OVX, OVX + oestradiol, and OVX + PDGF-BB. Plasma oestradiol and PDGF-BB levels were measured using commercially available ELISA kits. Results A total of 121 participants, including 69 normal young women, 28 patients with primary PMOP, and 24 age-matched postmenopausal women were enrolled. Plasma oestradiol and PDGF-BB levels were lower in postmenopausal women, especially in PMOP ( P < 0.01). Pearson correlations analysis showed that PDGF-BB levels were positively correlated with oestradiol levels and inversely correlated with age ( P < 0.01). The OVX rat model showed that oestradiol replacement increased plasma PDGF-BB levels, while PDGF-BB systematic treatment had no effect on plasma oestradiol levels. Conclusions Plasma PDGF-BB levels are maintained by oestrogen in normal young women and play a major role in PMOP.

Cerebrospinal fluid leptin in anorexia nervosa: correlation with nutritional status and potential role in resistance to weight gain.

PubMed

Mantzoros, C; Flier, J S; Lesem, M D; Brewerton, T D; Jimerson, D C

1997-06-01

Studies in rodents have shown that leptin acts in the central nervous system to modulate food intake and energy metabolism. To evaluate the possible role of leptin in the weight loss of anorexia nervosa, this study compared cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma leptin concentrations in anorexic patients and controls. Subjects included 11 female patients with anorexia nervosa studied at low weight and after treatment, and 15 healthy female controls. Concentrations of leptin in blood and CSF were measured by RIA. Patients with anorexia nervosa, compared to controls, had decreased concentrations of leptin in CSF (98 +/- 26 vs. 160 +/- 58 pg/mL; P < 0.0005) and plasma (1.75 +/- 0.46 vs. 7.01 +/- 3.92 ng/mL; P < 0.005). The CSF to plasma leptin ratio, however, was higher for patients (0.060 +/- 0.023) than for controls (0.025 +/- 0.007; P < 0.0001). At posttreatment testing, although patients had not yet reached normal body weight, CSF and plasma leptin concentrations had increased to normal levels. These results demonstrate the dynamic changes in plasma and CSF leptin during positive energy balance in anorexia nervosa. The results further suggest that normalization of CSF leptin levels before full weight restoration during treatment of anorexic patients could contribute to resistance to weight gain and/or incomplete weight recovery.

Transcriptional response of dermal fibroblasts in direct current electric fields.

PubMed

Jennings, Jessica; Chen, Dongquan; Feldman, Dale

2008-07-01

During the course of normal wound healing, fibroblasts at the wound edge are exposed to electric fields (EFs) ranging from 40 to 200 mV/mm. Various forms of EFs influence fibroblast migration, proliferation, and protein synthesis. Thus, EFs may contribute to fibroblast activation during wound repair. To elucidate the role of EFs during the normal progression of healing, this study compares gene expression in normal adult dermal fibroblasts exposed to a 100 mV/mm EF for 1 h to non-stimulated controls. Significantly increased expression of 162 transcripts and decreased expression of 302 transcripts was detected using microarrays, with 126 transcripts above the level of 1.4-fold increases or decreases compared to the controls. Above the level of twofold, only 11 genes were significantly increased or decreased compared to controls. Many of these significantly regulated genes are associated with wound repair through the processes of matrix production, cellular signaling, and growth. Activity within specific cellular signaling pathways is noted, including TGF-beta, G-proteins, and inhibition of apoptosis. In addition, RT-PCR analysis of the expression of KLF6, FN1, RGS2, and JMJD1C over continued stimulation and at different field strengths suggests that there are specific windows of field characteristics for maximum induction of these genes. EFs thus appear to have an important role in controlling fibroblast activity in the process of wound healing.

Sex steroid-induced changes in circulating monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 levels may contribute to metabolic dysfunction in obese men.

PubMed

Ruige, Johannes B; Bekaert, Marlies; Lapauw, Bruno; Fiers, Tom; Lehr, Stefan; Hartwig, Sonja; Herzfeld de Wiza, Daniella; Schiller, Martina; Passlack, Waltraud; Van Nieuwenhove, Yves; Pattyn, Piet; Cuvelier, Claude; Taes, Youri E; Sell, Henrike; Eckel, Juergen; Kaufman, Jean-Marc; Ouwens, D Margriet

2012-07-01

Low testosterone accompanied by elevated estradiol associates with the development of metabolic dysfunction in men. The aim of the study was to explore the hypothesis that alterations in sex steroid levels induce metabolic dysfunction through adipokines. Circulating levels of sex steroids and 28 adipokines were determined in a cross-sectional study of morbidly obese men and aged-matched controls, as well as in a randomized clinical trial with healthy young men in which obesity-related alterations in sex steroid levels were mimicked by treatment with an aromatase inhibitor plus estradiol patches. Morbidly obese men had lower testosterone levels than normal-weight controls. Estradiol levels were increased in morbidly obese men (without DM2) as compared to normal-weight controls. Circulating levels of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1Ra, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, leptin, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1), and macrophage inflammatory protein 1α, positively associated with estradiol and negatively with testosterone. The associations with estradiol, but not with testosterone, remained significant after adjusting for adipocyte cell size. In a separate clinical trial, the direct adverse effects of lowering testosterone and raising estradiol on MCP1 were substantiated in vivo. Initial alterations in sex steroid levels may contribute to metabolic dysfunction through adverse effects on adipokine levels in obese men. The direct adverse effects on MCP1, a chemokine highly linked to the development of metabolic dysfunction, were substantiated in a trial mimicking obesity-related alterations of sex steroid levels in healthy young males.

Androgen Responses to ACTH Infusion among Individual Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PubMed Central

Maas, Kevin H.; Chuan, Sandy; Harrison, Evan; Cook-Andersen, Heidi; Duleba, Antoni J; Chang, R. Jeffrey

2016-01-01

Objective To compare androgen responses during ACTH infusion among women with PCOS and normal women. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Research center at an academic medical center. Participants Women with PCOS (n=13) and normal controls (n=15). Interventions Blood samples were obtained frequently during a 6-hour dose-response ACTH infusion. Main Outcome Measures Comparison of basal and stimulated levels of 17-OHP, androgens, and cortisol during ACTH infusion with those following hCG injection within individual subjects. Results In women with PCOS increased 17-OHP, A4, and DHEA responses during ACTH infusion were comparable to those observed in normal controls. The magnitude of responses was highly variable among PCOS women. Within individual women with PCOS adrenal responses to ACTH and ovarian responses to hCG were significantly correlated. Cortisol responses to ACTH were similar in PCOS and normal controls. Conclusion Within individual women with PCOS, enhanced androgen responses to ACTH are accompanied by comparable androgen responsiveness to hCG. These findings suggest that dysregulated steroidogenesis leading to hyperandrogenemia in this disorder is likely present in both adrenal and ovarian tissues. PMID:27473350

Effects of education on aging-related cortical thinning among cognitively normal individuals.

PubMed

Kim, Jun Pyo; Seo, Sang Won; Shin, Hee Young; Ye, Byoung Seok; Yang, Jin-Ju; Kim, Changsoo; Kang, Mira; Jeon, Seun; Kim, Hee Jin; Cho, Hanna; Kim, Jung-Hyun; Lee, Jong-Min; Kim, Sung Tae; Na, Duk L; Guallar, Eliseo

2015-09-01

We aimed to investigate the relationship between education and cortical thickness in cognitively normal individuals to determine whether education attenuated the association of advanced aging and cortical thinning. A total of 1,959 participants, in whom education levels were available, were included in the final analysis. Cortical thickness was measured on high-resolution MRIs using a surface-based method. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed for education level and cortical thickness, after controlling for possible confounders. High levels of education were correlated with increased mean cortical thickness throughout the entire cortex (p = 0.003). This association persisted after controlling for vascular risk factors. Statistical maps of cortical thickness showed that the high levels of education were correlated with increased cortical thickness in the bilateral premotor areas, anterior cingulate cortices, perisylvian areas, right superior parietal lobule, left lingual gyrus, and occipital pole. There were also interactive effects of age and education on the mean cortical thickness (p = 0.019). Our findings suggest the protective effect of education on cortical thinning in cognitively normal older individuals, regardless of vascular risk factors. This effect was found only in the older participants, suggesting that the protective effects of education on cortical thickness might be achieved by increased resistance to structural loss from aging rather than by simply providing a fixed advantage in the brain. © 2015 American Academy of Neurology.

Short Communication: Lack of Immune Response in Rapid Progressor Morphine-Dependent and SIV/SHIV-Infected Rhesus Macaques Is Correlated with Downregulation of TH1 Cytokines

PubMed Central

Kumar, Rakesh; Noel, Richard J.; Garcia, Yashira; Rodriguez, Idia V.; Martinez, Melween; Sariol, Carlos A.; Kraiselburd, Edmundo; Iszard, Marcus; Mukherji, Mridul; Kumar, Santosh; Giavedoni, Luis D.; Kumar, Anil

2010-01-01

Abstract Our previous studies have shown two distinct disease patterns (rapid and normal onset of clinical symptoms) in morphine-dependent SHIV/SIV-inoculated rhesus macaques. We have also shown that control as well as 50% of morphine-dependent macaques (normal progressor) developed humoral and cellular immune responses whereas the other half of the morphine-dependent macaques (rapid progressor) did not develop antiviral immune responses after infection with SIV/SHIV. In the present study, we analyzed the association between cytokine production, immune response, and disease progression. To study the immunological effects of morphine at cytokine levels in the context of a lentiviral infection, we inoculated rhesus macaques with a mixture of SHIVKU−18, SHIV89.6P, and SIV/17E-Fr. These animals were followed for a period of 56 weeks for cytokine level production in plasma. Drug-dependent rapid disease progressors exhibited an increase in IL-18 and IL-1Ra and a decrease in IL-12 levels in the plasma. Morphine-dependent normal progressors and control macaques exhibited an increase in both IL-18 and IL-12, whereas IL-Ra levels remained constant throughout the observation period. These results suggest that rapid disease progression in relation to morphine dependency may be the result of an altered cytokine profile. PMID:20672973

The Studies on the Gastrin Levels in the Patients with Renal Failure

PubMed Central

Kim, Myung Hwan; Kim, Han Su; Rim, Kyu Sung; Bang, Ik Soo; Kim, Myung Jae; Chang, Rin; Min, Young II

1986-01-01

Fasting and postprandial gastrin levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in serum from 15 patients with renal failure and compared with those in 15 healthy controls. Pre- and posthemodialysis gastrin levels were also measured. The fasting serum gastrin levels and serum gastrin response to a standard meal in the patients with renal failure were significantly higher than those in normal controls. Fasting and meal stimulated gastrin levels were not significantly different in renal failure patients with peptic ulcer when compared with those in renal failure patients without peptic ulcer. There were no statistically significant differences in the serum gastrin levels before and after hemodialysis in patients with renal failure. PMID:15759375

[Total homocysteine levels in children with diabetes type 1. Conditional factors].

PubMed

Martínez Laborda, S; Salazar García-Blanco, M I; Rodríguez Rigual, M; Baldellou Vázquez, A

2008-03-01

To measure the plasma levels of total homocysteine (tHcy) in children with type I diabetes mellitus and their relationship with the control of the disease. We studied a total of 46 patients with ages between 4 and 19 years. The analyzed variables were: sex, age, puberty stage by Tanner, BMI, years of evolution of the illness, self-monitoring, associated diseases, tHcy, folic acid, vitamin B12, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile and renal function. The mean tHcy was of 5.48 +/- 1,64 microm/l, similar to that in our control population. There was a positive correlation with tHcy when analyzing the puberty stage by the Tanner scale. The years of evolution of diabetes varied between 0.4 and 15, with a mean of 5.77 +/- 3.69, with no correlation with tHcy. The glycosylated haemoglobin mean was 7.35 %, with no correlation with tHcy. The levels of folic acid and vitamin B12 were similar to the control population. The lipid profile of our patients was normal, with no association with tHcy levels. There was no correlation between GFR and tHcy. A clinically correct control of children with diabetes mellitus type 1, appears to ensure a normal total homocysteinemia, with no significant differences with the healthy individuals of the same age and social environment.

Elevated Vitamin D Receptor Levels in Genetic Hypercalciuric Stone-Forming Rats Are Associated With Downregulation of Snail

PubMed Central

Bai, Shaochun; Wang, Hongwei; Shen, Jikun; Zhou, Randal; Bushinsky, David A; Favus, Murray J

2010-01-01

Patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria (IH) and genetic hypercalciuric stone-forming (GHS) rats, an animal model of IH, are both characterized by normal serum Ca, hypercalciuria, Ca nephrolithiasis, reduced renal Ca reabsorption, and increased bone resorption. Serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] levels are elevated or normal in IH and are normal in GHS rats. In GHS rats, vitamin D receptor (VDR) protein levels are elevated in intestinal, kidney, and bone cells, and in IH, peripheral blood monocyte VDR levels are high. The high VDR is thought to amplify the target-tissue actions of normal circulating 1,25(OH)2D levels to increase Ca transport. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms whereby Snail may contribute to the high VDR levels in GHS rats. In the study, Snail gene expression and protein levels were lower in GHS rat tissues and inversely correlated with VDR gene expression and protein levels in intestine and kidney cells. In human kidney and colon cell lines, ChIP assays revealed endogenous Snail binding close to specific E-box sequences within the human VDR promoter region, whereas only one E-box specifically bound Snail in the rat promoter. Snail binding to rat VDR promoter E-box regions was reduced in GHS compared with normal control intestine and was accompanied by hyperacetylation of histone H3. These results provide evidence that elevated VDR in GHS rats likely occurs because of derepression resulting from reduced Snail binding to the VDR promoter and hyperacetylation of histone H3. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. PMID:19929616

Changes in cytokines in tears after endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy for primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

PubMed

Lee, J K; Kim, T H

2014-05-01

We attempted to compare the cytokine composition of tears between primary acquired nasolacrimal duct (NLD) obstruction and normal controls. We investigated the changes in cytokines in tears after endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). Eighteen patients underwent endonasal DCR, with seven patients undergoing bilateral DCR, resulting in twenty-five DCRs in total. Eleven contralateral un-operated eyes were used as normal controls. Silicone stents were removed 3 months after surgery. Tear samples were collected from all eyes before surgery, and at 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, and 4 months after surgery. The level of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the tears was measured. The concentrations of IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, VEGF, and FGF-2 were significantly higher in eyes with NLD obstruction than controls before surgery (P=0.006, 0.018, 0.002, 0.048, and 0.039, respectively). Most inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, VEGF, and FGF-2) were higher in the tears of the DCR group compared with the controls during the postoperative follow-up, but then rapidly decreased to the level of the controls after removal of the silicone stent. The recurred eyes showed a higher level of TGF-β2 and FGF-2 in tears compared with the eyes that showed good surgical results (P<0.005 and <0.005, respectively). The tear levels of inflammatory cytokines were higher in eyes with NLD obstruction than controls. The changes in cytokine level during the postoperative period showed the importance of cytokine analysis in understanding wound healing after DCR.

Effect of a prenatal lifestyle intervention on physical activity level in late pregnancy and the first year postpartum

PubMed Central

Sagedal, Linda Reme; Haakstad, Lene Annette Hagen; Lohne-Seiler, Hilde

2017-01-01

Background Despite documented health benefits for mother and baby, physical activity (PA)-level tends to decline in pregnancy. Overweight/obese and physically inactive women are two selected groups at increased risk of pregnancy complications. Thus, efficient strategies to maintain or increase PA-level in pregnancy and the postpartum period, especially among these women, are warranted. This secondary analysis examined the effect of a prenatal lifestyle-intervention on PA-level in late pregnancy and the first year postpartum, with subanalysis on initially physically active versus inactive and normal-weight versus overweight/obese women. Method The Norwegian Fit for Delivery (NFFD) randomized controlled trial included healthy primiparous women with singleton pregnancies and body mass index (BMI) ≥19 kg/m2 assigned to an intervention group, n = 303 (twice weekly group-exercises and dietary counseling) or a control group, n = 303 (standard prenatal care). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form was used to assess PA-levels at inclusion (mean gestational week (GW) 16), GW 36, and six and 12 months postpartum. Results At GW 36, a positive intervention-effect with a significant between-group difference in total PA-level compared to time of inclusion was found for the total group (530 MET-min/week, p = 0.001) and the subgroups of normal-weight (533 MET-min/week, p = 0.003) and initially active women (717 MET-min/week, p<0.001). Intervention-effect was dependent on exercise-adherence among overweight/obese and inactive women. Compared to time of inclusion, the intervention groups maintained total PA-level at GW 36, while total PA-level decreased in the control groups. The PA-levels increased postpartum, but with no significant differences between the randomization groups. Conclusion The NFFD prenatal combined lifestyle intervention had a significant effect on TPA-level in late pregnancy among women entering pregnancy normal-weight or physically active, thereby preventing the downward trend typically seen during pregnancy. Intervention-effect among overweight/obese and physically inactive women was, however, dependent on exercise-adherence. Long-term intervention-effect was not observed in the postpartum period. PMID:29176762

Effect of a prenatal lifestyle intervention on physical activity level in late pregnancy and the first year postpartum.

PubMed

Sanda, Birgitte; Vistad, Ingvild; Sagedal, Linda Reme; Haakstad, Lene Annette Hagen; Lohne-Seiler, Hilde; Torstveit, Monica Klungland

2017-01-01

Despite documented health benefits for mother and baby, physical activity (PA)-level tends to decline in pregnancy. Overweight/obese and physically inactive women are two selected groups at increased risk of pregnancy complications. Thus, efficient strategies to maintain or increase PA-level in pregnancy and the postpartum period, especially among these women, are warranted. This secondary analysis examined the effect of a prenatal lifestyle-intervention on PA-level in late pregnancy and the first year postpartum, with subanalysis on initially physically active versus inactive and normal-weight versus overweight/obese women. The Norwegian Fit for Delivery (NFFD) randomized controlled trial included healthy primiparous women with singleton pregnancies and body mass index (BMI) ≥19 kg/m2 assigned to an intervention group, n = 303 (twice weekly group-exercises and dietary counseling) or a control group, n = 303 (standard prenatal care). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form was used to assess PA-levels at inclusion (mean gestational week (GW) 16), GW 36, and six and 12 months postpartum. At GW 36, a positive intervention-effect with a significant between-group difference in total PA-level compared to time of inclusion was found for the total group (530 MET-min/week, p = 0.001) and the subgroups of normal-weight (533 MET-min/week, p = 0.003) and initially active women (717 MET-min/week, p<0.001). Intervention-effect was dependent on exercise-adherence among overweight/obese and inactive women. Compared to time of inclusion, the intervention groups maintained total PA-level at GW 36, while total PA-level decreased in the control groups. The PA-levels increased postpartum, but with no significant differences between the randomization groups. The NFFD prenatal combined lifestyle intervention had a significant effect on TPA-level in late pregnancy among women entering pregnancy normal-weight or physically active, thereby preventing the downward trend typically seen during pregnancy. Intervention-effect among overweight/obese and physically inactive women was, however, dependent on exercise-adherence. Long-term intervention-effect was not observed in the postpartum period.

Central and peripheral effects of chronic food restriction and weight restoration in the rat.

PubMed

Kinzig, Kimberly P; Hargrave, Sara L; Tao, Erin E

2009-02-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that some endocrine consequences of long-term caloric restriction persist after weight restoration in human subjects. Here we evaluate effects of chronic food restriction in rats that were restricted to 70% of control kcal for 4 wk and subsequently weight restored. Measures were taken from rats at 80% (chronically restricted; CR), 90% (partially weight restored; PR), 100% (fully weight restored; FR), and after 4 wk at 100% body weight of controls (extended weight restored; ER). Plasma insulin and leptin were decreased, and ghrelin was increased in CR compared with controls. Leptin and ghrelin normalized with weight restoration at PR, FR, and ER; however, baseline insulin was not normalized until the ER state. Hypothalamic mRNA expression levels for proopiomelanocortin (POMC), agouti-related protein (AgRP), and neuropeptide Y (NPY) revealed significantly less POMC mRNA expression in CR and PR rats, and significantly less arcuate NPY mRNA in PR and FR. In the dorsomedial hypothalamus, CR, PR, and FR rats had significantly increased NPY expression that was not normalized until the ER state. In response to a test meal, insulin and ghrelin release patterns were altered through the FR stage, and ghrelin remained affected at ER. Collectively, these data demonstrate that mere weight restoration is not sufficient to normalize hypothalamic gene expression levels and endocrine responses to a meal, and that meal-related ghrelin responses persist despite weight restoration for up to 4 wk.

Reversible changes in brain glucose metabolism following thyroid function normalization in hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Miao, Q; Zhang, S; Guan, Y H; Ye, H Y; Zhang, Z Y; Zhang, Q Y; Xue, R D; Zeng, M F; Zuo, C T; Li, Y M

2011-01-01

Patients with hyperthyroidism frequently present with regional cerebral metabolic changes, but the consequences of endocrine-induced brain changes after thyroid function normalization are unclear. We hypothesized that the changes of regional cerebral glucose metabolism are related to thyroid hormone levels in patients with hyperthyroid, and some of these changes can be reversed with antithyroid therapy. Relative regional cerebral glucose metabolism was compared between 10 new-onset untreated patients with hyperthyroidism and 20 healthy control participants by using brain FDG-PET scans. Levels of emotional distress were evaluated by using the SAS and SDS. Patients were treated with methimazole. A follow-up PET scan was performed to assess metabolic changes of the brain when thyroid functions normalized. Compared with controls, patients exhibited lower activity in the limbic system, frontal lobes, and temporal lobes before antithyroid treatment. There were positive correlations between scores of depression and regional metabolism in the cingulate and paracentral lobule. The severity of depression and anxiety covaried negatively with pretreatment activity in the inferior temporal and inferior parietal gyri respectively. Compared with the hyperthyroid status, patients with normalized thyroid functions showed an increased metabolism in the left parahippocampal, fusiform, and right superior frontal gyri. The decrease in both FT3 and FT4 was associated with increased activity in the left parahippocampal and right superior frontal gyri. The changes of regional cerebral glucose metabolism are related to thyroid hormone levels in patients with hyperthyroidism, and some cerebral hypometabolism can be improved after antithyroid therapy.

Elevated IGFBP3 levels in diabetic tears: a negative regulator of IGF-1 signaling in the corneal epithelium.

PubMed

Wu, Yu-Chieh; Buckner, Benjamin R; Zhu, Meifang; Cavanagh, H Dwight; Robertson, Danielle M

2012-04-01

To determine the ratio of IGFBP3:IGF-1 in normal and diabetic human tears, and in telomerase-immortalized human corneal epithelial cells (hTCEpi) cultured under elevated glucose conditions and to correlate these changes with total and phosphorylated levels of IGF-1R. Tear samples were collected noninvasively from diabetic subjects and non-diabetic controls; corneal sensitivity was assessed using a Cochet-Bonnet Aesthesiometer. Conditioned media were collected following culture of hTCEpi cells in normal (5 mM) and elevated (25 mM) glucose conditions; mannitol was used as an osmotic control. IGFBP3, IGF-1, and phosphorylated IGF-1R levels were assessed by ELISA. IGFBP3 and IGF-1R mRNA were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Total and phosphorylated IGF-1R expression in whole cell lysates was assessed by western blot. There was a 2.8-fold increase in IGFBP3 in diabetic tears compared to non-diabetic controls (P=0.006); IGF-1 levels were not significantly altered. No difference in corneal sensitivity was detected between groups. The concentration of IGFBP3 in tears was independent of IGF-1. Consistent with human tear measurements in vivo, IGFBP3 secretion was increased 2.2 fold (P<0.001) following culture of hTCEpi cells under elevated glucose conditions in vitro. Treatment with glucose and the mannitol control reduced IGFBP3 mRNA (P<0.001). Total IGF-1R levels were unchanged. The increase in the IGFBP3:IGF-1 ratio detected in diabetic tears compared to normal controls blocked phosphorylation of the IGF-1R by IGF-1 (P<0.001) when tested in vitro. Taken together, these in vivo and confirmatory in vitro findings suggest that the observed increase in IGFBP3 found in human tears may attenuate IGF-1R signaling in the diabetic cornea. A long-term increase in IGFBP3 may contribute to epithelial compromise and the pathogenesis of ocular surface complications reported in diabetes. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Elevated IGFBP3 levels in diabetic tears: a negative regulator of IGF-1 signaling in the corneal epithelium

PubMed Central

Wu, Yu-Chieh; Buckner, Benjamin R.; Zhu, Meifang; Cavanagh, H. Dwight; Robertson, Danielle M.

2012-01-01

Purpose To determine the ratio of IGFBP3:IGF-1 in normal and diabetic human tears, and in telomerase-immortalized human corneal epithelial cells (hTCEpi) cultured under elevated glucose conditions and to correlate these changes with total and phosphorylated levels of IGF-1R. Methods Tear samples were collected noninvasively from diabetic subjects and non-diabetic controls; corneal sensitivity was assessed using a Cochet-Bonnet Aesthesiometer. Conditioned media were collected following culture of hTCEpi cells in normal (5 mM) and elevated (25 mM) glucose conditions; mannitol was used as an osmotic control. IGFBP3, IGF-1, and phosphorylated IGF-1R levels were assessed by ELISA. IGFBP3 and IGF-1R mRNA were assessed by real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Total and phosphorylated IGF-1R expression in whole cell lysates was assessed by western blot. Results There was a 2.8-fold increase in IGFBP3 in diabetic tears compared to non-diabetic controls (P=0.006); IGF-1 levels were not significantly altered. No difference in corneal sensitivity was detected between groups. The concentration of IGFBP3 in tears was independent of IGF-1. Consistent with human tear measurements in vivo, IGFBP3 secretion was increased 2.2 fold (P<0.001) following culture of hTCEpi cells under elevated glucose conditions in vitro. Treatment with glucose and the mannitol control reduced IGFBP3 mRNA (P<0.001). Total IGF-1R levels were unchanged. The increase in the IGFBP3:IGF-1 ratio detected in diabetic tears compared to normal controls blocked phosphorylation of the IGF-1R by IGF-1 (P<0.001) when tested in vitro. Conclusions Taken together, these in vivo and confirmatory in vitro findings suggest that the observed increase in IGFBP3 found in human tears may attenuate IGF-1R signaling in the diabetic cornea. A long-term increase in IGFBP3 may contribute to epithelial compromise and the pathogenesis of ocular surface complications reported in diabetes. PMID:22482470

The relationship between distortion product otoacoustic emissions and extended high-frequency audiometry in tinnitus patients. Part 1: normally hearing patients with unilateral tinnitus.

PubMed

Fabijańska, Anna; Smurzyński, Jacek; Hatzopoulos, Stavros; Kochanek, Krzysztof; Bartnik, Grażyna; Raj-Koziak, Danuta; Mazzoli, Manuela; Skarżyński, Piotr H; Jędrzejczak, Wieslaw W; Szkiełkowska, Agata; Skarżyński, Henryk

2012-12-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) and extended high-frequency (EHF) thresholds in a control group and in patients with normal hearing sensitivity in the conventional frequency range and reporting unilateral tinnitus. Seventy patients were enrolled in the study: 47 patients with tinnitus in the left ear (Group 1) and 23 patients with tinnitus in the right ear (Group 2). The control group included 60 otologically normal subjects with no history of pathological tinnitus. Pure-tone thresholds were measured at all standard frequencies from 0.25 to 8 kHz, and at 10, 12.5, 14, and 16 kHz. The DPOAEs were measured in the frequency range from approximately 0.5 to 9 kHz using the primary tones presented at 65/55 dB SPL. The left ears of patients in Group 1 had higher median hearing thresholds than those in the control subjects at all 4 EHFs, and lower mean DPOAE levels than those in the controls for almost all primary frequencies, but significantly lower only in the 2-kHz region. Median hearing thresholds in the right ears of patients in Group 2 were higher than those in the right ears of the control subjects in the EHF range at 12.5, 14, and 16 kHz. The mean DPOAE levels in the right ears were lower in patients from Group 2 than those in the controls for the majority of primary frequencies, but only reached statistical significance in the 8-kHz region. Hearing thresholds in tinnitus ears with normal hearing sensitivity in the conventional range were higher in the EHF region than those in non-tinnitus control subjects, implying that cochlear damage in the basal region may result in the perception of tinnitus. In general, DPOAE levels in tinnitus ears were lower than those in ears of non-tinnitus subjects, suggesting that subclinical cochlear impairment in limited areas, which can be revealed by DPOAEs but not by conventional audiometry, may exist in tinnitus ears. For patients with tinnitus, DPOAE measures combined with behavioral EHF hearing thresholds may provide additional clinical information about the status of the peripheral hearing.

Potent therapeutic effects of shouwu jiangqi decoction on polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance in rats.

PubMed

Wang, Li-hong; Wang, Xu; Yu, Xi-zhong; Xu, Wen-ting

2016-02-01

To investigate the effect of Shouwu Jiangqi Decoction (SJD) on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance (IR) in rats and to explore the underlining molecular mechanisms. A total of 51 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: control group (n=7), model group (n=8), SJD high-dose group (n=9), SJD medium-dose group (n=9), SJD low-dose group (n=9) and DMBG group (n=9). Radioimmunoassay was used to measure serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone concentrations and qRT-PCR and western blot were used to examine the expression levels of mRNA and protein respectively of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) p85α in different groups. FSH level significantly decreased in the model group compared with the normal control (P<0.01), and high-dose SJD and DMBG can significantly increase FSH level (P<0.01). LH level showed a mild increase without statistic significance in the model group compared with the control and different dosages of SJD had no significance effect on LH level, while DMBG can significantly decrease LH level (P<0.01). Testosterone level significantly increased in the model group compared with the control group (P<0.01), and high-dose SJD and DMBG can significantly decrease testosterone level (P<0.01). The expression of IRS-1 as well as PI3Kp85α were significantly decreased in the model group compared with the normal control group at both mRNA (P<0.001) and protein (P<0.01) level, and both high-dose SJD and DMBG can enhance IRS-1 and PI3K expression (P<0.05). SJD has potent therapeutic effects on PCOS with IR in rats. The therapeutic effects of SJD on IR and ovulatory dysfunction are probably achieved through correcting the defective insulin signaling transduction.

Protein C deficiency in insulin-dependent diabetes: a hyperglycemia-related phenomenon.

PubMed

Ceriello, A; Quatraro, A; Dello Russo, P; Marchi, E; Barbanti, M; Milani, M R; Giugliano, D

1990-08-13

In 30 insulin-dependent diabetic patients protein C (PC) antigen and PC activity were significantly lower than those of matched control healthy subjects. An inverse correlation between fasting plasma glucose and both PC concentration and activity was present in diabetics, while a direct correlation between PC concentration and PC activity was observed. Induced hyperglycemia in diabetic and normal subjects was able to decrease both PC antigen levels and PC activity, and heparin reversed in part this effect. In diabetic patients euglycemia obtained by insulin infusion restored to normal the depressed PC levels. Heparin did not alter both the basal PC concentration and activity in healthy controls. These data stress the major role of hyperglycemia in determining PC decrease in diabetics, and suggest that PC reduction is probably associated to hyperglycemia-enhanced thrombin formation.

The impact of aging and hearing status on verbal short-term memory.

PubMed

Verhaegen, Clémence; Collette, Fabienne; Majerus, Steve

2014-01-01

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of hearing status on age-related decrease in verbal short-term memory (STM) performance. This was done by administering a battery of verbal STM tasks to elderly and young adult participants matched for hearing thresholds, as well as to young normal-hearing control participants. The matching procedure allowed us to assess the importance of hearing loss as an explanatory factor of age-related STM decline. We observed that elderly participants and hearing-matched young participants showed equal levels of performance in all verbal STM tasks, and performed overall lower than the normal-hearing young control participants. This study provides evidence for recent theoretical accounts considering reduced hearing level as an important explanatory factor of poor auditory-verbal STM performance in older adults.

An on-line modified least-mean-square algorithm for training neurofuzzy controllers.

PubMed

Tan, Woei Wan

2007-04-01

The problem hindering the use of data-driven modelling methods for training controllers on-line is the lack of control over the amount by which the plant is excited. As the operating schedule determines the information available on-line, the knowledge of the process may degrade if the setpoint remains constant for an extended period. This paper proposes an identification algorithm that alleviates "learning interference" by incorporating fuzzy theory into the normalized least-mean-square update rule. The ability of the proposed methodology to achieve faster learning is examined by employing the algorithm to train a neurofuzzy feedforward controller for controlling a liquid level process. Since the proposed identification strategy has similarities with the normalized least-mean-square update rule and the recursive least-square estimator, the on-line learning rates of these algorithms are also compared.

A multilevel-ROI-features-based machine learning method for detection of morphometric biomarkers in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Peng, Bo; Wang, Suhong; Zhou, Zhiyong; Liu, Yan; Tong, Baotong; Zhang, Tao; Dai, Yakang

2017-06-09

Machine learning methods have been widely used in recent years for detection of neuroimaging biomarkers in regions of interest (ROIs) and assisting diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases. The innovation of this study is to use multilevel-ROI-features-based machine learning method to detect sensitive morphometric biomarkers in Parkinson's disease (PD). Specifically, the low-level ROI features (gray matter volume, cortical thickness, etc.) and high-level correlative features (connectivity between ROIs) are integrated to construct the multilevel ROI features. Filter- and wrapper- based feature selection method and multi-kernel support vector machine (SVM) are used in the classification algorithm. T1-weighted brain magnetic resonance (MR) images of 69 PD patients and 103 normal controls from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) dataset are included in the study. The machine learning method performs well in classification between PD patients and normal controls with an accuracy of 85.78%, a specificity of 87.79%, and a sensitivity of 87.64%. The most sensitive biomarkers between PD patients and normal controls are mainly distributed in frontal lobe, parental lobe, limbic lobe, temporal lobe, and central region. The classification performance of our method with multilevel ROI features is significantly improved comparing with other classification methods using single-level features. The proposed method shows promising identification ability for detecting morphometric biomarkers in PD, thus confirming the potentiality of our method in assisting diagnosis of the disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coagulation activation in autoimmune bullous diseases

PubMed Central

Marzano, A V; Tedeschi, A; Spinelli, D; Fanoni, D; Crosti, C; Cugno, M

2009-01-01

The main autoimmune blistering skin disorders are pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and bullous pemphigoid (BP). They differ in the inflammatory infiltrate, which is more intense in BP. Inflammation is known to activate coagulation in several disorders. Local and systemic activation of coagulation was evaluated in BP and PV. We studied 20 BP patients (10 active and 10 remittent), 23 PV patients (13 active and 10 remittent) and 10 healthy subjects. The coagulation markers prothrombin fragment F1+2 and D-dimer were measured by enzyme-immunoassays in plasma. The presence of tissue factor (TF), the main initiator of blood coagulation, was evaluated immunohistochemically in skin specimens from 10 patients with active PV, 10 patients with active BP and 10 controls. Plasma F1+2 and D-dimer levels were significantly high in active BP (P = 0·001), whereas in active PV the levels were normal. During remission, F1+2 and D-dimer plasma levels were normal in both BP and PV. TF immunoreactivity was found in active BP but neither in active PV nor in normal skin. TF reactivity scores were higher in active BP than in controls or active PV (P = 0·0001). No difference in TF scores was found between active PV and controls. BP is associated with coagulation activation, which is lacking in PV. This suggests that BP but not PV patients have an increased thrombotic risk. The observation that thrombotic complications occur more frequently in BP than in PV further supports this view. PMID:19737228

Effect of housing rats within a pyramid on stress parameters.

PubMed

Bhat, Surekha; Rao, Guruprasad; Murthy, K Dilip; Bhat, P Gopalakrishna

2003-11-01

The Giza pyramids of Egypt have been the subject of much research. Pyramid models with the same base to height ratio as of the Great Pyramid of Giza, when aligned on a true north-south axis, are believed to generate, transform and transmit energy. Research done with such pyramid models has shown that they induced greater relaxation in human subjects, promoted better wound healing in rats and afforded protection against stress-induced neurodegnerative changes in mice. The present study was done to assess the effects of housing Wistar rats within the pyramid on the status of oxidative damage and antioxidant defense in their erythrocytes and cortisol levels in their plasma. Rats were housed in cages under standard laboratory conditions. Cages were left in the open (normal control), under a wooden pyramid model (experimental rats) or in a cubical box of comparable dimensions (6 hr/day for 14 days). Erythrocyte malondialdehyde and plasma cortisol levels were significantly decreased in rats kept within the pyramid as compared to the normal control and those within the square box. Erythrocyte reduced glutathione levels, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly increased in the rats kept in the pyramid as compared to the other two groups. There was no significant difference in any of the parameters between the normal control and rats kept in the square box. The results showed that exposure of adult female Wistar rats to pyramid environment reduces stress oxidative stress and increases antioxidant defense in them.

Immunochemical study of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase in a patient with mild hepatoerythropoietic porphyria.

PubMed Central

Fujita, H; Sassa, S; Toback, A C; Kappas, A

1987-01-01

Hepatoerythropoietic porphyria (HEP) is due to a marked deficiency of uroporphyrinogen (URO) decarboxylase, a cytosolic enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. Using a radioimmunoassay method, we determined the concentration of URO decarboxylase protein in erythrocytes from a patient with mild HEP and found that the enzyme protein concentration had markedly decreased to less than 7% of the normal controls. This finding, however, was in contrast to the enzyme activity in the patient's erythrocytes, which was 16% of normal control levels and different from previously reported HEP cases in that erythrocytes in our patient contained disproportionately elevated URO decarboxylase activity in comparison to its immunoreactive material. Our findings suggests the possibility of a mutant isozyme in this patient that is not immunoreactive with an antibody raised against the normal enzyme. PMID:3571497

[How to start a neuroimaging study].

PubMed

Narumoto, Jin

2012-06-01

In order to help researchers understand how to start a neuroimaging study, several tips are described in this paper. These include 1) Choice of an imaging modality, 2) Statistical method, and 3) Interpretation of the results. 1) There are several imaging modalities available in clinical research. Advantages and disadvantages of each modality are described. 2) Statistical Parametric Mapping, which is the most common statistical software for neuroimaging analysis, is described in terms of parameter setting in normalization and level of significance. 3) In the discussion section, the region which shows a significant difference between patients and normal controls should be discussed in relation to the neurophysiology of the disease, making reference to previous reports from neuroimaging studies in normal controls, lesion studies and animal studies. A typical pattern of discussion is described.

Effects of water immersion on plasma catecholamines in normal humans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Epstein, M.; Johnson, G.; Denunzio, A. G.

1983-01-01

An investigation was conducted in order to determine whether water immersion to the neck (NI) alters plasma catecholamines in normal humans. Eight normal subjects were studied during a seated control study (C) and during 4 hr of NI, and the levels of norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) as determined by radioenzymatic assay were measured hourly. Results show that despite the induction of a marked natriuresis and diuresis indicating significant central hypervolemia, NI failed to alter plasma NE or E levels compared with those of either C or the corresponding prestudy 1.5 hr. In addition, the diuresis and natriuresis was found to vary independently of NE. These results indicate that the response of the sympathetic nervous system to acute volume alteration may differ from the reported response to chronic volume expansion.

Body composition is normal in term infants born to mothers with well-controlled gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Au, Cheryl P; Raynes-Greenow, Camille H; Turner, Robin M; Carberry, Angela E; Jeffery, Heather E

2013-03-01

This study aims to describe body composition in term infants of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared with infants of mothers with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). This cross-sectional study included 599 term babies born at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia. Neonatal body fat percentage (BF%) was measured within 48 h of birth using air-displacement plethysmography. Glycemic control data were based on third-trimester HbA(1c) levels and self-monitoring blood glucose levels. Associations between GDM status and BF% were investigated using linear regression adjusted for relevant maternal and neonatal variables. Of 599 babies, 67 (11%) were born to mothers with GDM. Mean ± SD neonatal BF% was 7.9 ± 4.5% in infants with GDM and 9.3 ± 4.3% in infants with NGT, and this difference was not statistically significant after adjustment. Good glycemic control was achieved in 90% of mothers with GDM. In this study, neonatal BF% did not differ by maternal GDM status, and this may be attributed to good maternal glycemic control.

Nuclear-encoded mitochondrial complex I gene expression is restored to normal levels by inhibition of unedited ATP9 transgene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Busi, María V; Gómez-Casati, Diego F; Perales, Mariano; Araya, Alejandro; Zabaleta, Eduardo

2006-01-01

Mitochondria play an important role during sporogenesis in plants. The steady state levels of the nuclear-encoded mitochondrial complex I (nCI), PSST, TYKY and NADHBP transcripts increase in flowers of male-sterile plants with impairment of mitochondrial function generated by the expression of the unedited version of ATP9 (u-ATP9). This suggests a nuclear control of nCI genes in response to the mitochondrial flaw. To evaluate this hypothesis, transgenic plants carrying the GUS reporter gene, under the control of the PSST, TYKY and NADHBP promoters, were constructed. We present evidence that suppression by antisense strategy of the expression of u-ATP9 restores the normal levels of three nCI transcripts, indicating that the increase in PSST, TYKY and NADHBP in plants with a mitochondrial flaw occurs at the transcriptional level. The data presented here support the hypothesis that a mitochondrial dysfunction triggers a retrograde signaling which induce some nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes. Moreover, these results demonstrate that this is a valuable experimental model for studying nucleus-mitochondria cross-talk events.

[Rare differential diagnosis of hyperthyroidism].

PubMed

Besemer, Britta; Müssig, Karsten

2016-06-01

A 54-year-old female patient is admitted for evaluation of her thyroid function after two cycles of ipilimumab therapy. The decision for the anti-cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-antigen-4-therapy (anti-CTLA-4) was made two months earlier because of malignant melanoma with pulmonary metastases. The patient was euthyroid before initiation of treatment and without known thyroid disease. The laboratory reveals thyrotoxicosis with elevated anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibody levels. The anti-thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibody levels are within the normal range. Thyroid ultrasound shows a normal-sized, inhomogenous, hypoechogenic thyroid gland, consistent with autoimmune thyroiditis. Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism due to ipilimumab-induced autoimmune thyroiditis is made. The patient does not receive any thyroid-specific medication, with regular control of the thyroid hormone levels. When the patient becomes euthyroid, the ipilimumab therapy is continued. Three weeks later, the patient develops hypothyroidism and a supplementation with L-thyroxine is initiated. An anti-CTLA-4 therapy may cause thyroid dysfunction. Therefore, before initiation and in the course of the treatment, regular controls of the thyroid hormone levels are required. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Correlation between protein expression of FOXP3 and level of FOXP3 promoter methylation in recurrent spontaneous abortion.

PubMed

Hou, Wenhui; Li, Zhuyu; Li, Yinguang; Fang, Liyuan; Li, Jie; Huang, Jia; Li, Xiaoqing; You, Zeshan

2016-11-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the level of Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) promoter methylation and protein expression in recurrent spontaneous abortion and to elucidate the pathogenesis of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). We assessed a total of 56 URSA patients with a normal embryo, 24 recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) patients with an abnormal embryo (as control group 1), and 39 normal pregnant women (as control group 2). The expression of FOXP3 protein in deciduas was assessed through Western blot, and the level of FOXP3 promoter methylation was detected using bisulfite-assisted genomic sequencing polymerase chain reaction. The expressing quantity of FOXP3 protein in the URSA group was significantly lower than that in control groups 1 and 2, both with a P-value < 0.05. By contrast, no statistical difference was observed in the expressing quantity of FOXP3 protein of the two control groups (P = 0.212). The FOXP3 promoter methylation level in the URSA group was significantly higher than that in the two control groups, both of which exhibited a statistical difference of P-values < 0.05. Meanwhile, no statistical difference was observed in the FOXP3 promoter methylation level of the two control groups (P = 0.141). A negative correlation was found between the FOXP3 promoter methylation level and the expressing quantity of FOXP3 protein (r = -0.861, P < 0.05). Increasing FOXP3 promoter methylation levels may cause abnormal immune tolerance through the downregulation expression of the FOXP3 protein, which in turn leads to URSA. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Recovery of skeletal muscle after 3 mo of hindlimb immobilization in rats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Booth, F. W.; Seider, M. J.

1979-01-01

During immobilization, skeletal muscle undergoes decreases in size and strength with concomitant atrophic and degenerative changes in slow-twitch muscle fibers. Currently there are no objective data in slow-twitch muscle demonstrating recovery of biochemical or physiological indices following termination of immobilization. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the soleus, a slow-twitch muscle, could recover normal biochemical or physiological levels following termination of immobilization. Adenosine triphosphate, glycogen, and protein concentration (mg/g wet wt) all significantly decreased following 90 days of hindlimb immobilization, but these three values returned to control levels by the 60th recovery day. Similarly, soleus muscle wet weight and protein content (mg protein/muscle) returned to control levels by the 14th recovery day. In contrast, maximal isometric tension did not return to normal until the 120th day. These results indicate that following muscular atrophy, which was achieved through 90 days of hindlimb immobilization, several biochemical and physiological values in skeletal muscle are recovered at various times after the end of immobilization.

Microalgal Oil Supplementation Has an Anti-Obesity Effect in C57BL/6J Mice Fed a High Fat Diet

PubMed Central

Yook, Jin-Seon; Kim, Kyung-Ah; Park, Jeong Eun; Lee, Seon-Hwa; Cha, Youn-Soo

2015-01-01

This study investigated the impact of microalgal oil (MO) on body weight management in C57BL/6J mice. Obesity was induced for 8 weeks and animals were orally supplemented with the following for 8 additional weeks: beef tallow (BT), corn oil, fish oil (FO), microalgal oil (MO), or none, as a high fat diet control group (HD). A normal control group was fed with a normal diet. After completing the experiment, the FO and MO groups showed significant decreases in body weight gain, epididymal fat pad weights, serum triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels compared to the HD and BT groups. A lower mRNA expression level of lipid anabolic gene and higher levels of lipid catabolic genes were observed in both FO and MO groups. Serum insulin and leptin concentrations were lower in the MO group. These results indicated that microalgal oil has an anti-obesity effect that can combat high fat diet-induced obesity in mice. PMID:26770909

Serum Levels of Angiopoietin-Like Protein 2 and Obestatin in Iranian Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Normal Body Mass Index.

PubMed

Rahmani, Elham; Akbarzadeh, Samad; Broomand, Ainaz; Torabi, Fatemeh; Motamed, Niloofar; Zohrabi, Marzieh

2018-06-22

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disease in women of reproduction age and a major cause of anovulatory infertility. Insulin resistance plays an important role in the development and durability of this disorder. ANGPTL2 is known as an inflammatory mediator derived from adipose tissue that links obesity to systemic insulin resistance, and obestatin has been identified as a hormone associated with insulin resistance that suppresses food reabsorption, inhibits gastric emptying and decreases weight gain. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of ANGPTL2 and obestatin in PCOS women with normal body mass index (BMI). In this case-control study, 26 PCOS women based on the Rotterdam 2003 diagnostic criteria as the case group and 26 women with normal menstrual cycles as the control group were enrolled. Serum levels of ANGPTL2, obestatin, insulin and other hormone factors related with PCOS were measured by ELISA method and biochemical parameters were measured by an autoanalyzer. Data were analyzed by independent samples- T test, Chi Square, Correlation and a single sample Kolmogrov⁻Smirnov test using SPSS software, version 16. There were no significant variations in the amount of ANGPTL2, obestatin, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, cholesterol, creatinine and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate between the two groups. There were significant increases in serum levels of fasting blood sugar ( p = 0.01), insulin ( p = 0.04), homeostasis model assessments of insulin resistance ( p = 0.04), testosterone ( p = 0.02), luteinizing hormone ( p = 0.004), luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone ( p = 0.006) and prolactin ( p = 0.04) in case group compared to the control group. A significant positive correlation was observed between ANGPTL2 and insulin ( p = 0.02), HOMA-IR ( p = 0.01) and, on the other hand, a significant negative correlation was observed between obestatin and insulin ( p = 0.01), HOMA-IR ( p = 0.008) in PCOS group. In this study, no significant variations were observed in serum levels of ANGPTL2 and obestatin in PCOS women with normal BMI.

Decoupling PI Controller Design for a Normal Conducting RF Cavity Using a Recursive LEVENBERG-MARQUARDT Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Sung-il; Lynch, M.; Prokop, M.

2005-02-01

This paper addresses the system identification and the decoupling PI controller design for a normal conducting RF cavity. Based on the open-loop measurement data of an SNS DTL cavity, the open-loop system's bandwidths and loop time delays are estimated by using batched least square. With the identified system, a PI controller is designed in such a way that it suppresses the time varying klystron droop and decouples the In-phase and Quadrature of the cavity field. The Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm is applied for nonlinear least squares to obtain the optimal PI controller parameters. The tuned PI controller gains are downloaded to the low-level RF system by using channel access. The experiment of the closed-loop system is performed and the performance is investigated. The proposed tuning method is running automatically in real time interface between a host computer with controller hardware through ActiveX Channel Access.

Relationship Between 17-Hydroxyprogesterone Responses to Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Markers of Ovarian Follicle Morphology in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PubMed Central

Maas, Kevin H.; Chuan, Sandy S.; Cook-Andersen, Heidi; Su, H. Irene; Duleba, A.

2015-01-01

Context: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have increased 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) responses to gonadotropin stimulation although individual variability is substantial, as reflected by exaggerated as well as normal responses. The relationship between 17-OHP responses to gonadotropin stimulation and markers of ovarian function has not been assessed. Objective: To determine whether 17-OHP responses are associated with antral follicle count (AFC), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), or inhibin B (Inh B) levels in PCOS and normal women. Design: Prospective study. Setting: Research center at an academic medical center. Participants: Women with PCOS (n = 18) and normal controls (n = 18). Interventions: Blood samples were obtained before and 24 hours after administration of 25 μg recombinant-human chorionic gonadotropin. Ovarian imaging was conducted with three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound. Main Outcome Measures: Basal and stimulated levels of 17-OHP, androgens, estrogen, AMH, Inh B, and AFC. Results: In women with PCOS, 17-OHP responses were heterogeneous and inversely correlated with AMH and Inh B levels, but not AFC. In a subgroup of PCOS women with exaggerated 17-OHP responses, AMH levels were equivalent to that of normal women. In PCOS women with normal 17-OHP responses, AMH levels were markedly elevated. Conclusion: Based on heterogeneous 17-OHP responses to human chorionic gonadotropin in women with PCOS, AMH levels are inversely linked to ovarian androgen production while positively correlated with AFC. These findings suggest that in PCOS, AMH production may reflect redistribution of the follicle population or regulation by intraovarian mechanisms. PMID:25313914

Plasma serotonin in autism.

PubMed

Connors, Susan L; Matteson, Karla J; Sega, Gary A; Lozzio, Carmen B; Carroll, Roger C; Zimmerman, Andrew W

2006-09-01

Serotonin is necessary for normal fetal brain development. Administration of serotonin inhibitors to pregnant rats results in offspring with abnormal behaviors, brain morphology, and serotonin receptor numbers. Low maternal plasma serotonin may contribute to abnormal brain development in autism. In this study, plasma serotonin levels in autism mothers and control mothers of typically developing children were compared, and plasma serotonin levels in children with autism (n = 17) and their family members were measured. Plasma serotonin levels in autism mothers were significantly lower than in mothers of normal children (P = 0.002). Plasma serotonin levels correlated between autism mothers and their children, but differed between autistic children and their fathers (P = 0.028) and siblings (P = 0.063). Low maternal plasma serotonin may be a risk factor for autism through effects on fetal brain development.

Acetylcholine and choline in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Parkinson's disease and Huntington's chorea.

PubMed Central

Welch, M J; Markham, C H; Jenden, D J

1976-01-01

Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) acetylcholine (ACh) and choline (Ch) levels were measured in patients with Huntington's chorea (N=11), Parkinson's disease (N=8), and subjects at risk for Huntington's chorea (N=4), and all three groups were found not to differ significantly from normal controls (N=10). The values found for lumbar CSF ACh and Ch levels in the normal subjects were comparable with previously reported values. The use of physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, in collecting the CSF samples did not appear to make a difference with regard to ACh and Ch concentrations. Evidence suggesting a ventricular-lumbar gradient, with lumbar CSF Ch concentration being less than ventricular CSF Ch concentration, was found. Finally, ACh levels in CSF did not correlate with corresponding Ch levels. PMID:132512

Recurrent postural vasovagal syncope: sympathetic nervous system phenotypes.

PubMed

Vaddadi, Gautam; Guo, Ling; Esler, Murray; Socratous, Florentia; Schlaich, Markus; Chopra, Reena; Eikelis, Nina; Lambert, Gavin; Trauer, Thomas; Lambert, Elisabeth

2011-10-01

The pathophysiology of vasovagal syncope is poorly understood, and the treatment usually ineffective. Our clinical experience is that patients with vasovagal syncope fall into 2 groups, based on their supine systolic blood pressure, which is either normal (>100 mm Hg) or low (70-100 mm Hg). We investigated neural circulatory control in these 2 phenotypes. Sympathetic nervous testing was at 3 levels: electric, measuring sympathetic nerve firing (microneurography); neurochemical, quantifying norepinephrine spillover to plasma; and cellular, with Western blot analysis of sympathetic nerve proteins. Testing was done during head-up tilt (HUT), simulating the gravitational stress of standing, in 18 healthy control subjects and 36 patients with vasovagal syncope, 15 with the low blood pressure phenotype and 21 with normal blood pressure. Microneurography and norepinephrine spillover increased significantly during HUT in healthy subjects. The microneurography response during HUT was normal in normal blood pressure and accentuated in low blood pressure phenotype (P=0.05). Norepinephrine spillover response was paradoxically subnormal during HUT in both patient groups (P=0.001), who thus exhibited disjunction between nerve firing and neurotransmitter release; this lowered norepinephrine availability, impairing the neural circulatory response. Subnormal norepinephrine spillover in low blood pressure phenotype was linked to low tyrosine hydroxylase (43.7% normal, P=0.001), rate-limiting in norepinephrine synthesis, and in normal blood pressure to increased levels of the norepinephrine transporter (135% normal, P=0.019), augmenting transmitter reuptake. Patients with recurrent vasovagal syncope, when phenotyped into 2 clinical groups based on their supine blood pressure, show unique sympathetic nervous system abnormalities. It is predicted that future therapy targeting the specific mechanisms identified in the present report should translate into more effective treatment.

Post-transcriptional regulation in hematopoiesis: RNA binding proteins take control.

PubMed

de Rooij, Laura P M H; Chan, Derek C H; Keyvani Chahi, Ava; Hope, Kristin J

2018-06-13

Normal hematopoiesis is sustained through a carefully orchestrated balance between hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self-renewal and differentiation. The functional importance of this axis is underscored by the severity of disease phenotypes initiated by abnormal HSC function, including myelodysplastic syndromes and hematopoietic malignancies. Major advances in the understanding of transcriptional regulation of primitive hematopoietic cells have been achieved, however, the post-transcriptional regulatory layer that may impinge on their behavior remains underexplored by comparison. Key players at this level include RNA binding proteins (RBPs), which execute precise and highly coordinated control of gene expression through modulation of RNA properties that include its splicing, polyadenylation, localization, degradation or translation. With the recent identification of RBPs having essential roles in regulating proliferation and cell fate decisions in other systems, there has been an increasing appreciation of the importance of post-transcriptional control at the stem cell level. Here we discuss our current understanding of RBP-driven post-transcriptional regulation in HSC, its implications for normal, perturbed and malignant hematopoiesis, as well as the most recent technological innovations aimed at RBP-RNA network characterization at the systems level. Emerging evidence highlights RBP-driven control as an underappreciated feature of primitive hematopoiesis, the greater understanding of which has important clinical implications.

[Energy corrective and antioxidative actions of cytoflavin during postischemic period of human dermal fibroblasts in vitro].

PubMed

Tiuriaeva, I I; Kuranova, M L; Gonchar, I V; Rozanov, Iu M

2012-01-01

The influence of metabolic drug Cytoflavin (CF) with antihypoxic and antioxidative properties on human dermal fibroblasts in a model of ischemia-reoxygenation in vitro was studied. It was revealed that the restoration of ATP synthesis in fibroblasts in the postischemic period was considerably accelerated (in 2.1 times) by the addition of CF to the culture medium. The drug had a cell protective effect of reducing cell mortality during the reoxygenation after ischemia by 2-2.7 times. CF effectively reduced the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in fibroblasts after H2O2 treatment which allowed maintaining their survival at the level of control cells. Pretreatment of the cells with CF for one day ensured the maintenance of normal levels of ROS during the investigated time period in the fibroblasts subjected to H2O2 treatment, and reduced H2O2-induced cell death by almost a third compared to control cells. The introduction of CF in culture medium after ischemia showed no influence on Hsp70 synthesis, but led to decrease in GRP78 synthesis, raised after ischemia, to the control level, indicating a resolve of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and functional normalization of ER.

Decreased torque and electromyographic activity in the extensor thigh muscles in chondromalacia patellae.

PubMed

Väätäinen, U; Airaksinen, O; Jaroma, H; Kiviranta, I

1995-01-01

The alterations in thigh muscle properties of chondromalacia patellae patients during isometric and dynamic endurance tests were studied using a variokinetic knee testing system linked to surface EMG. A total of 41 patients (chondromalacia group) with arthroscopically certified chondromalacia of the patella were studied. The control group consisted of 31 healthy adult volunteers with no history of knee pain or trauma. Peak torque values were 21% (p < 0.01) and force output values 25% (p < 0.05) lower on the symptomatic side of the chondromalacia group than in the control group. The decrease in the ratio between integrated EMG (IEMG) and measured force were found in all parts of the quadriceps femoris muscle in patients with chondromalacia of the patella in isometric extension. No change in the normalized IEMG levels of the thigh muscles were found between chondromalacia patients and controls in dynamic endurance test. The severity of the chondromalacia of the patella did not affect the level of electromyographic activation in thigh muscles. The ratio of normalized EMG levels of vastus medialis and vastus lateralis did not differ between the groups. The present study showed that chondromalacia patellae patients have reduced force and electromyographic activation levels of quadriceps femoris muscle. Especially, the explosive strength of the quadriceps femoris muscle is reduced.

Decreased levels of circulating sex hormones as a biomarker of lung cancer in male patients with solitary pulmonary nodules.

PubMed

Gu, Tao; Wen, Zongmei; Xu, Shufeng; Hua, Haixia; Zhang, Zhi; Wen, Tao; Fu, Zhanzhao; Lv, Xin

2014-06-01

An early differentiation of malignant from benign solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) is essential for management and prognosis of lung cancer. Here we investigated whether measurement of circulating sex hormones could be useful for an early detection of malignancy among patients with SPNs. We recruited 47 patients with malignant SPNs 45 patients with benign SPNs, and 32 healthy persons. Testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone were measured. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as well as TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6 were also measured. We found that sex hormones were decreased significantly in patients with malignant SPNs, as compared to patients with benign SPNs and healthy controls (P<0.05). Sex hormones levels showed a trend to decline in patients with benign SPNs as compared to normal controls, but the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). CEA levels were only abnormally elevated in eight patients with lung adenocarcinoma. The inflammatory cytokines were remarkably higher in both patients than in normal controls. However, there was no statistical difference in these cytokines among patients. The reduced sex hormones levels seemed to be uniquely associated with lung cancer. Therefore, measurement of sex hormones may have clinical potential in the diagnosis of malignancy in patients with SPNs.

Wireless connection of continuous glucose monitoring system to the electronic patient record

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murakami, Alexandre; Gutierrez, Marco A.; Lage, Silvia G.; Rebelo, Marina S.; Granja, Luiz A. R.; Ramires, Jose A. F.

2005-04-01

The control of blood sugar level (BSL) at near-normal levels has been documented to reduce both acute and chronic complications of diabetes mellitus. Recent studies suggested, the reduction of mortality in a surgical intensive care unit (ICU), when the BSL are maintained at normal levels. Despite of the benefits appointed by these and others clinical studies, the strict BSL control in critically ill patients suffers from some difficulties: a) medical staff need to measure and control the patient"s BSL using blood sample at least every hour. This is a complex and time consuming task; b) the inaccuracy of standard capillary glucose monitoring (fingerstick) in hypotensive patients and, if frequently used to sample arterial or venous blood, may lead to excess phlebotomy; c) there is no validated procedure for continuously monitoring of BSL levels. This study used the MiniMed CGMS in ill patients at ICU to send, in real-time, BSL values to a Web-Based Electronic Patient Record. The BSL values are parsed and delivered through a wireless network as an HL7 message. The HL7 messages with BSL values are collected, stored into the Electronic Patient Record and presented into a bed-side monitor at the ICU together with other relevant patient information.

Placental release of distinct DNA-associated microparticles into maternal circulation: reflective of gestation time and preeclampsia

PubMed Central

Orozco, Aaron F.; Jorgez, Carolina J.; Ramos-Perez, William D.; Popek, Edwina J.; Yu, Xiaoying; Kozinetz, Claudia A.; Bischoff, Farideh Z.; Lewis, Dorothy E.

2009-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to determine whether DNA-associated micro-particles (MPs) in maternal plasma express fetal-derived human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) or placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) and whether the levels differ between women with normotensive pregnancies and preeclampsia. Methods DNA-associated MPs expressing HLA-G or PLAP were examined in the plasma of normal pregnant women and preeclamptic patients using flow cytometric analysis. Results DNA-associated HLA-G+ MPs were significantly increased in maternal plasma compared to plasma from non-pregnant controls (p < 0.005), with highest levels found in first and second trimesters. DNA-associated PLAP+ MPs were also increased in maternal plasma compared to plasma from non-pregnant controls (p < 0.006), with highest levels in second and third trimesters. Term preeclamptic women had higher levels of DNA-associated MPs than control pregnant women. HLA-G+ MPs from the plasma of preeclamptic women had more DNA per MP than HLA-G+ MPs from the plasma of normal pregnant women (p < 0.03). Conclusions HLA-G and PLAP MPs increase in maternal circulation at different times during gestation. DNA amounts per HLA-G+ MP increase in preeclamptic women which might indicate dysfunctional extravillous cytotrophoblasts. PMID:19692120

Implicit Threat Vigilance among Violent Offenders Diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder: The Impact of Ostracism and Control Threat

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Çelik, Pinar; van Beest, Ilja; Lammers, Joris; Bekker, Marrie

2013-01-01

The present study investigated the role of control as a moderator in reaction to ostracism among male violent offenders diagnosed with ASPD (N = 33) compared to a control sample consisting of males from the normal population without a known history of violence, or diagnosis of ASPD, matched for age and educational level (N = 35). Participants…

Controlling and policing substance use(rs).

PubMed

White, Tony

2002-01-01

Controlling drug use--a dynamic, global, politicalized process--is reviewed in terms of selected types of drugs, "natural levels" of drug demand and use, drug markets and the drug market environment, types of traffickers, illicit drug trade profits, approaches to drug control ("War on Drugs", "Zero Tolerance" programs and policies, "normalizing" and legalizing selected drugs), including UN's then relatively recent "Balanced Approach" and facets of drug law enforcement (drug prices and purity levels and values of drug seizures), including various rarely noted benefits to intervention programs and control agents. Unresolved issues and needed "tools" are noted while considering the implications of the first UN's World Drug Report data.

Tall stature without growth hormone: four male patients with aromatase deficiency.

PubMed

Rochira, Vincenzo; Zirilli, Lucia; Maffei, Laura; Premrou, Valeria; Aranda, Claudio; Baldi, Matteo; Ghigo, Ezio; Aimaretti, Gianluca; Carani, Cesare; Lanfranco, Fabio

2010-04-01

From preliminary observations, GH-IGF-I seems to be compromised in men with aromatase deficiency. The GH deficiency (GHD) coexists paradoxically with tall stature, raising the question whether or not a true GHD is part of this rare syndrome. To evaluate the GH secretion in aromatase-deficient men, their GH response to the GHRH plus arginine (GHRH-ARG) test was compared with that of normal subjects. The effect of estrogen replacement treatment on the GH-IGF-I axis in aromatase-deficient men was evaluated before and during therapy. A case-control study was conducted. Four adult men with aromatase deficiency were compared with 12 normal subjects. We measured the GH response to GHRH-ARG in aromatase-deficient men (at baseline and during estrogen treatment) and in normal subjects. Basal serum IGF-I was measured in both patients and controls. The response of GH to GHRH-ARG was severely impaired in men with aromatase deficiency and resulted in significantly lower (P < 0.001) levels than in normal subjects. Although normal, serum IGF-I levels were also significantly lower (P < 0.001) than in normal subjects. Both GH peak and IGF-I concentrations were not modified by estrogen therapy in men with aromatase deficiency. In aromatase-deficient men, GH response to potent provocative stimuli is impaired and is not restored by exogenous estrogens. Furthermore, a tall stature may be reached, notwithstanding the coexistence of GHD, if a prolonged time for growth is available due to a delay in bone maturation, and other growth factors different from GH (mainly insulin) promote growth.

Role of guar fiber in appetite control.

PubMed

Rao, Theertham Pradyumna

2016-10-01

Appetite control and reduction of additional calorie intake may be a logical approach for proper weight management. Viscous dietary fibers are effective in appetite control but difficult to apply in normal serving sizes in foods and nutritional supplements due to their viscosity and required high doses. Guar fiber popularly known as partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) is near non-viscous soluble fiber that has been proven effective in providing many physiological benefits. Guar fiber has also been identified as potential natural food and nutritional supplement ingredient for appetite control. The aim of this review is to summarize all the clinical studies pertinent to its effects on appetite control in normal subjects and postulate the mechanism of action. Guar fiber exhibited appetite control via delaying the colonic transit time of digested food, stimulation of satiety hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) and induction of prolonged perception of post-meal satiation and satiety effects. Regular intake of guar fiber at a dose of 2g/serving provided significant sustained post-meal satiation effects and minimized the inter-meal calorie intake by about 20% in normal subjects. The intake of guar fiber alone at a dose >5g/serving or its combination with protein (2.6g guar fiber+8g protein/serving) showed acute satiety effects in normal subjects. Guar fiber containing >85% dietary fiber, with clear solubility and negligible taste impact, may be an ideal natural dietary fiber for use in food and supplement applications at low dosage levels for appetite control. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Effects of soybean isoflavone on born metabolism and morphology in animal model of osteoporosis rats].

PubMed

Yu, Qing; Su, Yi-xiang; Wang, Wen-wei; Li, An-le; Liu, Cun-li; Wang, Yi-long; Hu, Wan-li

2007-07-01

To study the effects of soybean isoflavone (SI) on born metabolism and morphology in animal model of osteoporosis rats. All 70 female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 7 groups according to the levels of total cholesterol (TC) in serum: hyper-lipoid group, estrogen group, low-dose SI group, middle-dose SI group, high-dose SI group, sham group and normal control groups. Bilateral ovaries were extirpated except sham and normal control groups. Except the rats in normal control group, the other rats were fed with high fat diet. Body weight was weighted ad unam vice per week. The estrogen, different dose of SI or deionized water were fed with intragastric administration for 12 weeks. Vena caudalis serum were collected after being ovariectomized, administered for 4 w, 8 w and killed. Serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity and bone density were measured etc. To interfere of estrogen and SI might recover AKP enzyme activity after its being ovariectomized. There almost sowed no differences between high dose SI intervention and estrogen on bone density and microstructure. Bone loss due to being ovariectomized was relieved after SI intervention. SI might protect cardiocyte myofilament and mitochondrial ultramicrostructure. There was mirror image in estrogen, high dose SI group resembling the normal control group, and there was obvious damage in hyper-lipoids group. There should be effects of high dose SI on bone metabolism and morphology in animal model of osteoporosis rats. Serum AKP enzyme activity and bone density should have significantly recovered, the serum level of calcium and phosphorus were maintained after high dose intervened but no significant effects for low dose of SI.

Effects of low-dose cranial radiation on growth hormone secretory dynamics and hypothalamic-pituitary function

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Costin, G.

1988-08-01

Spontaneous growth hormone (GH) secretory dynamics and hypothalamic-pituitary function were studied in 16 long-term survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia who were aged 9 to 15 1/2 years and had been treated with prophylactic central nervous system radiation and combined chemotherapy. At the time of study, the mean height was -1.5 SD score below the mean, less than genetic potential, and significantly less than the mean pretreatment height of -0.25 SD score. Height velocity was subnormal for age and sexual stage in all patients. Two patients had compensated hypothyroidism, and four had evidence of gonadal failure. In 11 patients, the peakmore » GH level after two provocative tests was below 10 micrograms/L, which was consistent with GH deficiency. In ten of 13 patients tested, spontaneous GH secretion determined by a 24-hour GH concentration (GHC), GH pulse amplitude, frequency of GH pulses greater than or equal to 5 micrograms/L, and GH peak during wake and sleep hours was significantly less than in normal height controls. Although in three pubertal patients the 24-hour GHC was within normal limits, the GHC during sleep hours, GH pulse amplitude during 24 hours and sleep hours, and peak GH during wake hours were significantly less than in normal height controls. In all pubertal and in two of the prepubertal patients, the somatomedin C (SmC) level was significantly less than in controls. The 24-hour GHC correlated well with the GHC during sleep, peak-stimulated GH level, gonadal steroid level, and the SmC level, but not with height velocity, dose of radiation, or age at radiation. A significant increase in height velocity and the SmC level was noted in all patients treated with GH. These results indicate that GH deficiency occurs after 18 to 24 Gy of cranial radiation and that the puberty-associated growth spurt may mask the decline in height velocity owing to GH deficiency.« less

Changes in receptor-mediated endocytosis in liver sinusoidal cells after partial hepatectomy in the rat.

PubMed

Kamimoto, Y; Tanabe, D; Tashiro, S; Hiraoka, T; Miyauchi, Y

1994-06-01

Liver sinusoidal cells play an important role in host defense by clearing particulate matter and macromolecules from the circulation. In this study, receptor-mediated endocytosis in sinusoidal cells was examined in two-thirds hepatectomized rats using 125I-labeled formaldehyde-treated bovine serum albumin (fBSA) as an endocytable macromolecule. The liver-weight to body-weight ratio in hepatectomized rats returned to the control value 10 days after hepatectomy. The endocytotic index for fBSA in sinusoidal cells decreased significantly to 0.0210 +/- 0.0017 (controls, 0.0598 +/- 0.0019) on the first day, then returned to the control level at 5 days (0.0554 +/- 0.0030). The changes in hepatic uptake for fBSA showed a similar time course of the endocytotic index. A transient increase in the uptake of fBSA per unit weight of liver of 22-39% above control occurred 2 to 3 days after hepatectomy. In contrast to fBSA, the endocytotic index in hepatocytes evaluated with 125I-labeled asialofetuin reached the minimum level on the second day, and then recovered to the control level 10 days after hepatectomy. These results suggest that endocytosis of fBSA by sinusoidal cells decreases after hepatectomy and rapidly recovers to normal before the completion of liver regeneration, whereas endocytosis of asialofetuin by hepatocytes decreases following hepatic resection and returns to normal when regeneration is substantially complete.

DECREASED LEVEL OF CORD BLOOD CIRCULATING ENDOTHELIAL COLONY-FORMING CELLS IN PREECLAMPSIA

PubMed Central

Muñoz-Hernandez, Rocio; Miranda, Maria L.; Stiefel, Pablo; Lin, Ruei-Zeng; Praena-Fernández, Juan M.; Dominguez-Simeon, Maria J.; Villar, Jose; Moreno-Luna, Rafael; Melero-Martin, Juan M.

2014-01-01

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disorder associated with increased cardiovascular risk for the offspring. Endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) are a subset of circulating endothelial progenitor cells that participate in the formation of vasculature during development. However, the effect of preeclampsia on fetal levels of ECFCs is largely unknown. In this study, we sought to determine whether cord blood ECFC abundance and function are altered in preeclampsia. We conducted a prospective cohort study that included women with normal (n=35) and preeclamptic (n=15) pregnancies. We measured ECFC levels in the umbilical cord blood of neonates and characterized ECFC phenotype, cloning-forming ability, proliferation and migration towards VEGF-A and FGF-2, in vitro formation of capillary-like structures, and in vivo vasculogenic ability in immunodeficient mice. We found that the level of cord blood ECFCs was statistically lower in preeclampsia than in control pregnancies (P = .04), a reduction that was independent of other obstetric factors. In addition, cord blood ECFCs from preeclamptic pregnancies required more time to emerge in culture than control ECFCs. However, once derived in culture, ECFC function was deemed normal and highly similar between preeclampsia and control, including the ability to form vascular networks in vivo. This study demonstrates that preeclampsia affects ECFC abundance in neonates. A reduced level of ECFCs during preeclamptic pregnancies may contribute to an increased risk of developing future cardiovascular events. PMID:24752434

Increased macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels in patients with Graves' disease.

PubMed

Morishita, Eriko; Sekiya, Akiko; Hayashi, Tomoe; Kadohira, Yasuko; Maekawa, Mio; Yamazaki, Masahide; Asakura, Hidesaku; Nakao, Shinji; Ohtake, Shigeki

2008-10-01

Previous studies have found markedly elevated serum concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines in patients with Graves' disease (GD). We investigated the role of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) in GD. We assayed concentrations of M-CSF in sera from 32 patients with GD (25 untreated; 7 receiving thiamazole therapy). We also studied 32 age-matched healthy subjects as controls. Relationships between serum M-CSF and both thyroid state and serum lipids were examined. Moreover, to examine the effect of thyroid hormone alone on serum M-CSF, T3 was administered orally to normal subjects. Serum concentrations of M-CSF in GD patients who were hyperthyroid were significantly increased compared with GD patients who were euthyroid (P < 0.05) and control subjects (P < 0.0001). Serum M-CSF concentrations correlated closely with T3 levels in patients (r = 0.51, P < 0.005). Serial measurement of five individual patients revealed that serum concentrations of M-CSF were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), reaching normal control values upon attainment of euthyroidism. Furthermore, oral T3 administered to 15 volunteers for 7 days produced significant increases in serum levels of M-CSF (P < 0.05). The close correlation between serum M-CSF and serum thyroid hormone levels suggests that high circulating levels of thyroid hormones may directly or indirectly potentiate the production of M-CSF in patients with GD.

Human cytokine response to Texas crotaline envenomation before and after antivenom administration.

PubMed

Crocker, Patrick; Zad, Omid; Milling, Truman; Maxson, Todd; King, Benjamin; Whorton, Elbert

2010-10-01

The aim of this study was to characterize the human cytokine response to Texas crotaline envenomation before and after antivenom administration. This study enrolled crotaline bite victims presenting to a regional trauma center and children's hospital from March to November 2007 and age-matched unbitten controls. Blood spot cards were obtained from bite victims at presentation and at 1 and 6 hours after antivenom administration. One control sample was drawn from each of the age-matched controls selected from urgent care patients presenting for minor complaints. Samples were delivered to a laboratory using a proprietary method for quantitative evaluation of a large number of biomarkers in parallel with bead-based multiplex immunoassays. After obtaining informed consent, 14 crotaline bite victims (age range, 5-85 years; median age, 45 years; 50% female) (Snakebite Severity Score, 2-7; median, 3) and 14 age-matched controls were enrolled. There were 7 copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) bites, 4 rattlesnake (probably Western Diamondback Crotalus atrox) bites, 2 cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) bites, and 1 bite from a snake that was not identified by the victim. In t tests, the means in the presentation samples for apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I), Apo C3, interleukin 4 (IL-4), myeloperoxidase, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), epidermal growth factor, and regulated upon activation, normal t-cell expressed and secreted were significantly lower and Apo H was significantly higher in the bite patients than in the controls. In the 1-hour sample, α(1)-antitrypsin, Apo A-I, Apo C3, eotaxin, IL-4, myeloperoxidase, and PAI-1 levels were lower and prostatic acid phosphatase and cancer antigen 125 levels were higher in the bite patients than in the controls. And in the 6-hour sample, α(1)-antitrypsin, Apo A-I, Apo C3, endothelin-1, IL-4, macrophage inflammatory protein 1β, myeloperoxidase, and epidermal growth factor levels were lower and Apo H level was higher in the bite patients than in controls (all P values < .05). Crotaline venom produces a broad cytokine response in human bite victims. In particular, IL-4, myeloperoxidase, and Apo A-I and C3 levels remain altered despite antivenom therapy, whereas PAI-1 and regulated upon activation, normal t-cell expressed and secreted levels seem to normalize after antivenin as other markers are affected. Understanding this profile and further study of the markers identified might lead to improved therapies and better prognostic indicators. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Noise Level and Cognitive Function on Speech Perception in Normal Elderly and Elderly with Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment.

PubMed

Lee, Soo Jung; Park, Kyung Won; Kim, Lee-Suk; Kim, HyangHee

2016-06-01

Along with auditory function, cognitive function contributes to speech perception in the presence of background noise. Older adults with cognitive impairment might, therefore, have more difficulty perceiving speech-in-noise than their peers who have normal cognitive function. We compared the effects of noise level and cognitive function on speech perception in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), cognitively normal older adults, and cognitively normal younger adults. We studied 14 patients with aMCI and 14 age-, education-, and hearing threshold-matched cognitively intact older adults as experimental groups, and 14 younger adults as a control group. We assessed speech perception with monosyllabic word and sentence recognition tests at four noise levels: quiet condition and signal-to-noise ratio +5 dB, 0 dB, and -5 dB. We also evaluated the aMCI group with a neuropsychological assessment. Controlling for hearing thresholds, we found that the aMCI group scored significantly lower than both the older adults and the younger adults only when the noise level was high (signal-to-noise ratio -5 dB). At signal-to-noise ratio -5 dB, both older groups had significantly lower scores than the younger adults on the sentence recognition test. The aMCI group's sentence recognition performance was related to their executive function scores. Our findings suggest that patients with aMCI have more problems communicating in noisy situations in daily life than do their cognitively healthy peers and that older listeners with more difficulties understanding speech in noise should be considered for testing of neuropsychological function as well as hearing.

Mice with chimeric livers are an improved model for human lipoprotein metabolism.

PubMed

Ellis, Ewa C S; Naugler, Willscott Edward; Nauglers, Scott; Parini, Paolo; Mörk, Lisa-Mari; Jorns, Carl; Zemack, Helen; Sandblom, Anita Lövgren; Björkhem, Ingemar; Ericzon, Bo-Göran; Wilson, Elizabeth M; Strom, Stephen C; Grompe, Markus

2013-01-01

Rodents are poor model for human hyperlipidemias because total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein levels are very low on a normal diet. Lipoprotein metabolism is primarily regulated by hepatocytes and we therefore assessed whether chimeric mice extensively repopulated with human cells can model human lipid and bile acid metabolism. FRG [ F ah(-/-) R ag2(-/-)Il2r g (-/-)]) mice were repopulated with primary human hepatocytes. Serum lipoprotein lipid composition and distribution (VLDL, LDL, and HDL) was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography. Bile was analyzed by LC-MS or by GC-MS. RNA expression levels were measured by quantitative RT-PCR. Chimeric mice displayed increased LDL and VLDL fractions and a lower HDL fraction compared to wild type, thus significantly shifting the ratio of LDL/HDL towards a human profile. Bile acid analysis revealed a human-like pattern with high amounts of cholic acid and deoxycholic acid (DCA). Control mice had only taurine-conjugated bile acids as expcted, but highly repopulated mice had glycine-conjugated cholic acid as found in human bile. RNA levels of human genes involved in bile acid synthesis including CYP7A1, and CYP27A1 were significantly upregulated as compared to human control liver. However, administration of recombinant hFGF19 restored human CYP7A1 levels to normal. Humanized-liver mice showed a typical human lipoprotein profile with LDL as the predominant lipoprotein fraction even on a normal diet. The bile acid profile confirmed presence of an intact enterohepatic circulation. Although bile acid synthesis was deregulated in this model, this could be fully normalized by FGF19 administration. Taken together these data indicate that chimeric FRG-mice are a useful new model for human lipoprotein and bile-acid metabolism.

Isolation of antiosteoporotic compounds from seeds of Sophora japonica.

PubMed

Abdallah, Hossam M; Al-Abd, Ahmed M; Asaad, Gihan F; Abdel-Naim, Ashraf B; El-halawany, Ali M

2014-01-01

Chemical investigation of Sophora japonica seeds resulted in the isolation of seven metabolites identified as: genistin (1), sophoricoside (2), sophorabioside (3), sophoraflavonoloside (4), genistein 7,4'-di-O-β-D-glucopyransoide (5), kaempferol 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1 → 6)β-D-glucopyranosyl(1 → 2)β-D-glucopyranoside (6) and rutin (7). Compounds 1, 2 and 5 showed significant estrogenic proliferative effect in MCF-7 cell in sub-cytotoxic concentration range. Compounds 1 and 2 showed minimal cell membrane damaging effect using LDH leakage assay. Accordingly, compound 2 (sophoricoside, (SPH)) was selected for further in-vivo studies as a potential anti-osteoporosis agent. The anti-osteoporotic effect of SPH was assessed in ovarectomized (OVX) rats after oral administration (15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) for 45 days compared to estradiol (10 µg/kg) as a positive control. Only in a dose of 30 mg/kg, SPH regained the original mechanical bone hardness compared to normal non-osteoporotic group. However, SPH (15 mg/kg) significantly increased the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to normal level. Treatment with SPH (30 mg/kg) increased the level of ALP to be higher than normal group. SPH (15 mg/kg) did not significantly increase the serum level of osteocalcin (OC) compared to OVX group. On the other hand, treatment with SPH (30 mg/kg) significantly increased the level of OC to 78% higher than normal non-ovarectomized animals group. In addition, SPH (15 mg/kg) decreased the bone resorption marker, acid phosphatase (ACP) to normal level and SPH (30 mg/kg) further diminished the level of serum ACP. Histopathologically, sophoricoside ameliorated the ovarectomy induced osteoporosis in a dose dependent manner. The drug showed thicker bony trabeculae, more osteoid, and more osteoblastic rimming compared to OVX group.

Gene expression analysis in lymphoblasts derived from patients with autism spectrum disorder.

PubMed

Yasuda, Yuka; Hashimoto, Ryota; Yamamori, Hidenaga; Ohi, Kazutaka; Fukumoto, Motoyuki; Umeda-Yano, Satomi; Mohri, Ikuko; Ito, Akira; Taniike, Masako; Takeda, Masatoshi

2011-05-26

The autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders that result in severe and pervasive impairment in the development of reciprocal social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication skills. In addition, individuals with ASD have stereotypical behavior, interests and activities. Rare mutations of some genes, such as neuroligin (NLGN) 3/4, neurexin (NRXN) 1, SHANK3, MeCP2 and NHE9, have been reported to be associated with ASD. In the present study, we investigated whether alterations in mRNA expression levels of these genes could be found in lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from patients with ASD. We measured mRNA expression levels of NLGN3/4, NRXN1, SHANK3, MeCP2, NHE9 and AKT1 in lymphoblastoid cells from 35 patients with ASD and 35 healthy controls, as well as from 45 patients with schizophrenia and 45 healthy controls, using real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assays. The mRNA expression levels of NLGN3 and SHANK3 normalized by β-actin or TBP were significantly decreased in the individuals with ASD compared to controls, whereas no difference was found in the mRNA expression level of MeCP2, NHE9 or AKT1. However, normalized NLGN3 and SHANK3 gene expression levels were not altered in patients with schizophrenia, and expression levels of NLGN4 and NRXN1 mRNA were not quantitatively measurable in lymphoblastoid cells. Our results provide evidence that the NLGN3 and SHANK3 genes may be differentially expressed in lymphoblastoid cell lines from individuals with ASD compared to those from controls. These findings suggest the possibility that decreased mRNA expression levels of these genes might be involved in the pathophysiology of ASD in a substantial population of ASD patients.

[Effects on blood cell numbers and cytokines of dermal application rocket kerosene in mice].

PubMed

Xu, Bingxin; Wang, Jianying; Liu, Zhiguo; Li, Chenglin; Yang, Heming; Lou, Xiaotong; Li, Jianzhong; Cui, Yan

2015-09-01

To detect the number of cells and the level of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-γ and IL-17 cytokines in the peripheral blood of mice exposed to rocket kerosene by skin. ICR mice were randomly divided into the normal control group and RK experimental group (400 µl×1 group). RK undiluted fuel were applied directly to the dorsal skin of the mice. In control groups were treated with sesame oil (SO). the number of blood cells were detected by automatic blood cell counter and the level of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-γ and IL-17 cytokines in serum were detected by using flow cytometry and BD CBA Flex set kit. Compared with the normal group, WBC and LYM had a decreasing tendency 2 h and decreased significantly 6 h, 12 h and 1 d after RK exposure (P<0.05). They increased significantly 7 d after RK exposure (P<0.05). Compared with the normal group, the level of IL-6 increased significantly 2 h, 6 h, 12 h,1 d and 3 d (P<0.05). The level of TNF-α increased significantly 2h, 3d, 5d and 7d (P<0.05). The level of IL-10 increased significantly 2 h, 6 h, 3 d, 5 d and 7 d (P<0.05). The level of IFN-γ increased significantly 6 h and 3 d (P< 0.05). The level of IL-17 significantly increased 3 d, 5 d and 7d (P<0.05). RK can change the number of immune cells, causing the immune cytokine changes in mice after RK cutaneous exposure.

Low circulating IGF-I levels in hyperthyroidism are associated with decreased GH response to GH-releasing hormone.

PubMed

Ramos-Dias, J C; Yateman, M; Camacho-Hübner, C; Grossman, A; Lengyel, A M

1995-11-01

Several abnormalities in the GH response to pharmacological stimuli have been described in hyperthyroidism. Both normal and high serum IGF-I levels have been reported, as well as a decrease in IGF-I bioactivity. We have evaluated the GH response to GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) in hyperthyroid patients and the effects of hyperthyroidism on serum IGF-I levels. The possible relations between nutritional status, thyroid hormones and IGF-I levels were also investigated. We also studied the influence of long-term beta-adrenoceptor blockade on the GH response to GHRH in these patients. In 18 hyperthyroid patients and in 12 control subjects, GHRH (100 micrograms) was administered as an i.v. bolus injection. Eight hyperthyroid patients and 8 control subjects received 50 micrograms GHRH i.v. Seven hyperthyroid patients were reevaluated after beta-adrenoceptor blockade. IGF-I and albumin levels were measured initially in all hyperthyroid patients and control subjects. Body composition was determined in 11 hyperthyroid patients and in a group of 33 matched normal controls. Hyperthyroid patients were compared to control subjects. GH, TSH and free T4 were measured by immunofluorometric assay. IGF-I, total T3 and total T4 were measured by radioimmunoassay. Body composition was determined using a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometer. The GH response to 100 micrograms GHRH in hyperthyroid patients was blunted compared to control subjects. The mean peak GH levels and the area under the curve were significantly lower in hyperthyroid patients compared to control subjects (11 +/- 1 vs 27 +/- 5 micrograms/l and 820 +/- 113 vs 1879 +/- 355 micrograms/l 120 min, respectively; P < 0.01). IGF-I levels were significantly reduced in hyperthyroid patients compared to controls (131 +/- 10 vs 201 +/- 16 micrograms/l, respectively; P < 0.01). Ideal body weight, serum albumin levels and the lean body mass were also reduced in hyperthyroid patients. After beta-adrenoceptor blockade there were no changes in the blunted GH response to GHRH in hyperthyroid patients. Our data suggest that the blunted GH response to GHRH in hyperthyroidism is apparently not related to circulating IGF-I levels. It is possible that nutritional factors could play a role in the reduced circulating IGF-I levels found in these patients.

Median-lower normal levels of serum thyroxine are associated with low triiodothyronine levels and body temperature in patients with central hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Hirata, Yu; Fukuoka, Hidenori; Iguchi, Genzo; Iwahashi, Yasuyuki; Fujita, Yasunori; Hari, Yusuke; Iga, Makiko; Nakajima, Shinsuke; Nishimoto, Yuki; Mukai, Miki; Hirota, Yushi; Sakaguchi, Kazuhiko; Ogawa, Wataru; Takahashi, Yutaka

2015-08-01

Although it has been recommended that serum free thyroxine (FT4) levels should be targeted to middle-upper normal levels during levothyroxine (l-T4) replacement therapy in patients with central hypothyroidism (CeH), the rationale has not been clarified. A retrospective single-center study enrolled 116 patients with hypothyroidism (CeH, n=32; total thyroidectomy (Tx), n=22; primary hypothyroidism (PH), n=33; and control benign thyroid nodule (C), n=29). The patients had received L-T4 therapy at the Kobe University Hospital between 2003 and 2013. They were stratified according to serum FT4 level (≥ 1.10 or <1.10 ng/dl), and body temperature (BT), serum free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels, FT3/FT4 ratio, and lipid profiles were compared. The effect of GH replacement therapy on thyroid function was also analyzed. FT3 levels and FT3/FT4 ratios were significantly lower in patients with CeH than in patients with PH (P<0.05) or C (P<0.05). In patients with FT4 <1.10 ng/dl, BT was significantly lower in patients with CeH (P=0.002) and Tx (P=0.005) than in patients with PH, whereas no differences were found in patients with FT4 ≥ 1.10 ng/dl. In patients with CeH, FT3 levels were higher in those with GH replacement therapy (P=0.018). In CeH, patients with median-lower normal levels of serum FT4 exhibited lower serum FT3 levels and lower BT. These results support the target levels of serum FT4 as middle-upper normal levels during l-T4 replacement therapy in patients with CeH. © 2015 European Society of Endocrinology.

Analysis of a Panel of 48 Cytokines in BAL Fluids Specifically Identifies IL-8 Levels as the Only Cytokine that Distinguishes Controlled Asthma from Uncontrolled Asthma, and Correlates Inversely with FEV1

PubMed Central

Qi, Huibin; Kurosky, Alexander; Jennings, Kristofer; Sun, Qian; Boldogh, Istvan; Sur, Sanjiv

2015-01-01

We sought to identify cells and cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids that distinguish asthma from healthy control subjects and those that distinguish controlled asthma from uncontrolled asthma. Following informed consent, 36 human subjects were recruited for this study. These included 11 healthy control subjects, 15 subjects with controlled asthma with FEV1≥80% predicted and 10 subjects with uncontrolled asthma with FEV1 <80% predicted. BAL fluid was obtained from all subjects. The numbers of different cell types and the levels of 48 cytokines were measured in these fluids. Compared to healthy control subjects, patients with asthma had significantly more percentages of eosinophils and neutrophils, IL-1RA, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2Rα, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, G-CSF, GROα (CXCL1), MIP-1β (CCL4), MIG (CXCL9), RANTES (CCL5) and TRAIL in their BAL fluids. The only inflammatory markers that distinguished controlled asthma from uncontrolled asthma were neutrophil percentage and IL-8 levels, and both were inversely correlated with FEV1. We examined whether grouping asthma subjects on the basis of BAL eosinophil % or neutrophil % could identify specific cytokine profiles. The only differences between neutrophil-normal asthma (neutrophil≤2.4%) and neutrophil-high asthma (neutrophils%>2.4%) were a higher BAL fluid IL-8 levels, and a lower FEV1 in the latter group. By contrast, compared to eosinophil-normal asthma (eosinophils≤0.3%), eosinophil-high asthma (eosinophils>0.3%) had higher levels of IL-5, IL-13, IL-16, and PDGF-bb, but same neutrophil percentage, IL-8, and FEV1. Our results identify neutrophils and IL-8 are the only inflammatory components in BAL fluids that distinguish controlled asthma from uncontrolled asthma, and both correlate inversely with FEV1. PMID:26011707

Glycemic control in diabetes in three Danish counties.

PubMed

Jørgensen, Lone G M; Petersen, Per Hyltoft; Heickendorff, Lene; Møller, Holger Jon; Hendel, Jørn; Christensen, Cramer; Schmitz, Anita; Reinholdt, Birgitte; Lund, Erik D; Christensen, Niels J; Hansen, Erik Kjaersgaard; Hastrup, Jens; Skjødt, Hanne; Eriksen, Ebbe Wendel; Brandslund, Ivan

2005-01-01

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a proxy measure for glycemic control in diabetes. We investigated the trend for glycemic control in patients from three Danish counties using HbA1c measurements. We studied 2454 patients from a population of 807,000 inhabitants for whom routine monitoring of diabetes using HbA1c-DCCT aligned was initiated in 2001. We estimated the incidence of monitored patients in the population. The progress in patients with originally diabetic HbA1c levels was investigated by cumulative probability plots, and the individual trend in clinical outcome was investigated by a modified difference plot. The age-standardized incidence of monitored patients was <0.5% in all regions. Patients with diabetic first HbA1c concentrations (>or=6.62% HbA1c) showed on average 15% improved glycemic control in the first year. Further improvement was limited. The overall percentage above the treatment target (>or=6.62% HbA1c) was 51% in 2003 compared to 59% in 2001, and the percentage with poor glycemic control (>or=10.0% HbA1c) was reduced from 19% to 4%. Of patients with originally diabetic HbA1c levels, 15% showed progress in glycemic control, and 28% reached treatment targets. In patients with originally normal HbA1c, 75% showed an upward trend in HbA1c levels, which reached diabetic concentrations in 17%. Patients with diabetic first HbA1c concentrations (>or=6.62% HbA1c) showed on average 15% improved glycemic control in the first year. Further improvement was limited. In individual patients, 75% with originally diabetic HbA1c levels showed improved glycemic control after 3 years, while 78% with originally normal concentrations showed an upward trend in HbA1c levels.

Preferential expression of cystein-rich secretory protein-3 (CRISP-3) in chronic pancreatitis.

PubMed

Liao, Q; Kleeff, J; Xiao, Y; Guweidhi, A; Schambony, A; Töpfer-Petersen, E; Zimmermann, A; Büchler, M W; Friess, H

2003-04-01

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive inflammatory process resulting in exocrine and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency in advanced stages. Cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRISP-3) has been identified as a defense-associated molecule with predominant expression in the salivary gland, pancreas and prostate. In this study, we investigated CRISP-3 expression in normal pancreatic tissues, chronic pancreatitis tissues, pancreatic cancer tissues and pancreatic cancer cell lines, as well as in other gastrointestinal organs. 15 normal pancreatic tissues, 14 chronic pancreatitis tissues and 14 pancreatic cancer tissues as well as three pancreatic cancer cell lines were analyzed. Moreover, hepatocellular carcinoma and esophageal, stomach and colon cancers were also analyzed together with the corresponding normal controls. CRISP-3 was expressed at moderate to high levels in chronic pancreatitis tissues and at moderate levels in pancreatic cancer tissues but at low levels in normal pancreatic tissues, and was absent in three pancreatic cancer cell lines. CRISP-3 expression was below the level of detection in all cancerous gastrointestinal tissues and in all normal tissues except 2 of 16 colon tissue samples. CRISP-3 mRNA signals and immunoreactivity were strongly present in the cytoplasm of degenerating acinar cells and in small proliferating ductal cells in CP tissues and CP-like lesions in pancreatic cancer tissues. In contrast, CRISP-3 expression was weak to absent in the cytoplasm of cancer cells as well as in acinar cells and ductal cells in pancreatic cancer tissues and normal pancreatic tissues. These results reveal that the distribution of CRISP-3 in gastrointestinal tissues is predominantly in the pancreas. High levels of CRISP-3 in acinar cells dedifferentiating into small proliferating ductal cells in CP and CP-like lesions in pancreatic cancer suggests a role of this molecule in the pathophysiology of CP.

HIGHER SERUM TOTAL CHOLESTEROL LEVELS IN LATE MIDDLE AGE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH GLUCOSE HYPOMETABOLISM IN BRAIN REGIONS AFFECTED BY ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND NORMAL AGING

PubMed Central

Reiman, Eric M.; Chen, Kewei; Langbaum, Jessica B.S.; Lee, Wendy; Reschke, Cole; Bandy, Daniel; Alexander, Gene E.; Caselli, Richard J.

2010-01-01

Epidemiological studies suggest that higher midlife serum total cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) in the study of cognitively normal late-middle-aged people, we demonstrated an association between apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 gene dose, the major genetic risk factor for late-onset AD, and lower measurements of the cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (CMRgl) in AD-affected brain regions, we proposed using PET as a presymptomatic endophenotype to evaluate other putative AD risk modifiers, and we then used it to support an aggregate cholesterol-related genetic risk score in the risk of AD. In the present study, we used PET to investigate the association between serum total cholesterol levels and cerebral metabolic rate for glucose metabolism (CMRgl) in 117 cognitively normal late middle-aged APOE ε4 homozygotes, heterozygotes and noncarriers. Higher serum total cholesterol levels were associated with lower CMRgl bilaterally in precuneus, parietotemporal and prefrontal regions previously found to be preferentially affected by AD, and in additional frontal regions previously found to be preferentially affected by normal aging. The associations were greater in APOE ε4 carriers than non-carriers in some of the AD-affected brain regions. We postulate the higher midlife serum total cholesterol levels accelerate brain processes associated with normal aging and conspire with other risk factors in the predisposition to AD. We propose using PET in proof-of-concept randomized controlled trials to rapidly evaluate the effects of midlife cholesterol-lowering treatments on the brain changes associated with normal aging and AD. PMID:19631758

Cardiovascular cast model fabrication and casting effectiveness evaluation in fetus with severe congenital heart disease or normal heart.

PubMed

Wang, Yu; Cao, Hai-yan; Xie, Ming-xing; He, Lin; Han, Wei; Hong, Liu; Peng, Yuan; Hu, Yun-fei; Song, Ben-cai; Wang, Jing; Wang, Bin; Deng, Cheng

2016-04-01

To investigate the application and effectiveness of vascular corrosion technique in preparing fetal cardiovascular cast models, 10 normal fetal heart specimens with other congenital disease (control group) and 18 specimens with severe congenital heart disease (case group) from induced abortions were enrolled in this study from March 2013 to June 2015 in our hospital. Cast models were prepared by injecting casting material into vascular lumen to demonstrate real geometries of fetal cardiovascular system. Casting effectiveness was analyzed in terms of local anatomic structures and different anatomical levels (including overall level, atrioventricular and great vascular system, left-sided and right-sided heart), as well as different trimesters of pregnancy. In our study, all specimens were successfully casted. Casting effectiveness analysis of local anatomic structures showed a mean score from 1.90±1.45 to 3.60±0.52, without significant differences between case and control groups in most local anatomic structures except left ventricle, which had a higher score in control group (P=0.027). Inter-group comparison of casting effectiveness in different anatomical levels showed no significant differences between the two groups. Intra-group comparison also revealed undifferentiated casting effectiveness between atrioventricular and great vascular system, or left-sided and right-sided heart in corresponding group. Third-trimester group had a significantly higher perfusion score in great vascular system than second-trimester group (P=0.046), while the other anatomical levels displayed no such difference. Vascular corrosion technique can be successfully used in fabrication of fetal cardiovascular cast model. It is also a reliable method to demonstrate three-dimensional anatomy of severe congenital heart disease and normal heart in fetus.

The effectivenes of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurniawati, Arifah Putri; Prasetyo, Zuhdan Kun; Wilujeng, Insih; Suryadarma, I. Gusti Putu

2017-08-01

This research aimed to determine the significant effect of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency toward science process skills. The research method used was a quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control group design. The population of this research was all students of class VII SMP Negeri 1 Muntilan. The sample of this research was selected through cluster random sampling, namely class VII B as an experiment class (24 students) and class VII C as a control class (24 students). This research used a test instrument that was adapted from Agus Dwianto's research. The aspect of science process skills in this research was observation, classification, interpretation and communication. The analysis of data used the one factor anova at 0,05 significance level and normalized gain score. The significance level result of science process skills with one factor anova is 0,000. It shows that the significance level < alpha (0,05). It means that there was significant effect of science domain-based science learning integrated with local potency toward science learning process skills. The results of analysis show that the normalized gain score are 0,29 (low category) in control class and 0,67 (medium category) in experiment class.

Comparison of folic acid levels in schizophrenic patients and control groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arthy, C. C.; Amin, M. M.; Effendy, E.

2018-03-01

Folic acid deficiency is a risk factor for schizophrenia through epidemiology, biochemistry and gene-related studies. Compared with healthy people, schizophrenic patients may have high homocysteine plasma values and homocysteine or low levels of folic acid, which seems to correlate with extrapyramidal motor symptoms caused by neuroleptic therapy and with symptoms of schizophrenia. In this present study, we focus on the difference of folic acid level between schizophrenic patient and control group. The study sample consisted of schizophrenic patients and 14 people in the control group and performed blood sampling to obtain the results of folic acid levels. The folic acid level in both groups was within normal range, but the schizophrenic patient group had lower mean folic acid values of 5.00 ng/ml (sb 1.66), compared with the control group with mean folic acid values of 10.75 ng/ml (sb 4.33). there was the group of the control group had a higher value of folic acid than the schizophrenic group.

Angiotensin converting enzyme genotype and chronic allograft nephropathy in protocol biopsies.

PubMed

Hueso, Miguel; Alía, Pedro; Moreso, Francesc; Beltrán-Sastre, Violeta; Riera, Luis; González, Carlota; Navarro, Miguel Angel; Grinyó, Josep Maria; Navarro, Estanis; Serón, Daniel

2004-08-01

Genotype DD of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is not associated with an increased incidence of native renal diseases, although it could modulate progression to renal failure in patients who already display chronic lesions. Because its role in renal allograft degeneration is not well characterized, whether ACE genotype was associated with the prevalence of chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) was studied, in a group of protocol biopsies from 180 patients, or with the incidence of CAN in 152 patients with at least two sequential biopsies. As a control group, ACE genotype was also studied in 41 donors and 72 healthy subjects. For analyzing the influence of ACE genotype in graft survival, patients were grouped into six categories (II-normal biopsy, ID-normal, DD-normal, II-CAN, ID-CAN and DD-CAN). Finally, relative renal ACE mRNA levels were measured in 67 cases by real-time PCR using the delta threshold cycle method. ACE-DD genotype was more frequent in patients who received a transplant than in control subjects (43.3% versus 30.1%, P = 0.026), but prevalence (DD = 42.7% versus non-DD = 42.2%) or incidence (DD = 24.6% versus non-DD = 29.9%) of CAN was not different regarding recipient ACE genotype. Furthermore, patients with the ACE-DD genotype and CAN had the poorest graft survival (II-normal = 100%, ID-normal = 91%, DD-normal = 84%, II-CAN = 100%, ID-CAN = 66%, and DD-CAN = 36%; P = 0.034) and higher ACE mRNA levels than non-DD and CAN (DD = -3.36 +/- 2.35 versus non-DD = -5.65 +/- 1.72-fold in ACE copies; P = 0.012). It is concluded that ACE-DD genotype is not associated with an increased prevalence or incidence of CAN but is actually associated with higher ACE mRNA levels and poorer graft survival in patients who already display CAN.

The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index is not able to detect early metabolic alterations in young patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

PubMed

Angioni, Stefano; Sanna, Stefania; Magnini, Roberta; Melis, Gian Benedetto; Fulghesu, Anna Maria

2011-07-01

To verify whether QUICKY is a suitable method for the identification of metabolic deterioration in normal weight patients affected by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Prospective clinical study. Seventy-nine PCOS normal weight adolescent subjects, 50 eumenorrheic, normal weight, non-hirsute controls matched for age and BMI. Quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKY) and integrated secretory area under the curve of insulin values (I-AUC) during oral glucose tolerance test were calculated. Seventy-nine PCOS and 50 controls were studied. Normal insulin sensitivity was defined as upper control 95th percentile by QUICKY values <0.31, I-AUC at 180 min < 16,645. When applying the calculated I-AUC cut-off, 41 PCOS were classified as normoinsulinemic and 38 as hyperinsulinemic, whereas using the calculated QUICKY cut-off, only 19 PCOS could be classified as insulin resistant (IR). Fifteen out of the 60 non-IR PCOS presented hyperinsulinemia; fasting glucose and insulin levels and QUICKY were not sufficient to identify these subjects. Thus, QUICKY displayed a low sensitivity (44%) and specificity (91%) in the diagnosis of the metabolic disorder disclosed by I-AUC. CONCLUSIONS.: In young normal weight patients with PCOS the prevalence of early alterations of insulin metabolism are not detectable by QUICKY studies.

Assessment of the maximum voluntary arm muscle contraction in sign language for the deaf.

PubMed

Regalo, S C H; Teixeira, V R; Vitti, M; Chaves, T C; Hallak, J E C; Bevilaqua-Grossi, D; Siriani de Oliveira, A

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the levels of upper member muscles' activation of deaf individuals, who use the Brazilian sign language - LIBRAS, comparing these findings to volunteers with no postural deviations and normal hearing Forty eight volunteers divided into two groups comprising healthy and deaf subjects (24 volunteers for each group). The signs of rest were obtained with the volunteer maintaining the upper member in an anatomical position, but with the forearm flexed and sustained by the lower member. Maximum voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC) of the biceps, triceps, deltoid, and trapezius muscles were performed in the position of muscular function testing. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS-10.0. Continuous data with normal distribution were analyzed by ANOVA with the significance level of p < 0.01. The normalized electromyographic muscle data obtained in muscular rest do not show statistically significant differences among the studies muscles, in both groups. In the comparison of normalized RMS values obtained in MVIC, the mean values for the trapezius muscle of deaf group were statistically lower than control group. This study's results indicate there are no differences between the levels of muscular activation for arm biceps, arm triceps, and the anterior portion of the deltoid muscle between the mean normalized RMS values of deaf and healthy individuals.

The effect of excess weight on circulating inflammatory cytokines in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis individuals.

PubMed

Juncal-Ruiz, María; Riesco-Dávila, Laura; de la Foz, Víctor Ortiz-García; Ramírez-Bonilla, Mariluz; Martínez-García, Obdulia; Irure-Ventura, Juan; Leza, Juan Carlos; López-Hoyos, Marcos; Crespo-Facorro, Benedicto

2018-02-28

Low-grade inflammation has been repeatedly associated with both excess weight and psychosis. However, no previous studies have addressed the direct effect of body mass index (BMI) on basal serum cytokines in individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP). The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of BMI on basal serum cytokine levels in FEP patients and control subjects, separating the total sample into two groups: normal-weight and overweight individuals. This is a prospective and open-label study. We selected 75 FEP patients and 75 healthy controls with similar characteristics to patients according to the following variables: sex, age, and cannabis and tobacco consumption. Both controls and patients were separated into two groups according to their BMI: subjects with a BMI under 25 were considered as normal weight and those with a BMI equal to or more than 25 were considered as overweight. Serum levels of 21 cytokines/chemokines were measured at baseline using the Human High Sensitivity T Cell Magnetic Bead Panel protocol from the Milliplex® Map Kit. We compared the basal serum levels of the 21 cytokines between control and patient groups according to their BMI. In the normal-weight group, IL-8 was the only cytokine that was higher in patients than in the control group (p = 0.001), whereas in the overweight group, serum levels of two pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, p = 0.000; IL-1β, p = 0.003), two chemokines (IL-8, p = 0.001; MIP-1β, p = 0.001), four Th-1 and Th-2 cytokines (IL-13, p = 0.009; IL-2, p = 0.001; IL-7, p = 0.001; IL-12p70, p = 0.010), and one Type-3 cytokine (IL-23, p = 0.010) were higher in patients than in controls. Most differences in the basal serum cytokine levels between patients and healthy volunteers were found in the overweight group. These findings suggest that excess weight can alter the homeostasis of the immune system and therefore may have an additive pro-inflammatory effect on the one produced by psychosis in the central nervous system.

Self-Organizing Feature Maps Identify Proteins Critical to Learning in a Mouse Model of Down Syndrome.

PubMed

Higuera, Clara; Gardiner, Katheleen J; Cios, Krzysztof J

2015-01-01

Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal abnormality (trisomy of human chromosome 21) associated with intellectual disability and affecting approximately one in 1000 live births worldwide. The overexpression of genes encoded by the extra copy of a normal chromosome in DS is believed to be sufficient to perturb normal pathways and normal responses to stimulation, causing learning and memory deficits. In this work, we have designed a strategy based on the unsupervised clustering method, Self Organizing Maps (SOM), to identify biologically important differences in protein levels in mice exposed to context fear conditioning (CFC). We analyzed expression levels of 77 proteins obtained from normal genotype control mice and from their trisomic littermates (Ts65Dn) both with and without treatment with the drug memantine. Control mice learn successfully while the trisomic mice fail, unless they are first treated with the drug, which rescues their learning ability. The SOM approach identified reduced subsets of proteins predicted to make the most critical contributions to normal learning, to failed learning and rescued learning, and provides a visual representation of the data that allows the user to extract patterns that may underlie novel biological responses to the different kinds of learning and the response to memantine. Results suggest that the application of SOM to new experimental data sets of complex protein profiles can be used to identify common critical protein responses, which in turn may aid in identifying potentially more effective drug targets.

Self-Organizing Feature Maps Identify Proteins Critical to Learning in a Mouse Model of Down Syndrome

PubMed Central

Higuera, Clara; Gardiner, Katheleen J.; Cios, Krzysztof J.

2015-01-01

Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal abnormality (trisomy of human chromosome 21) associated with intellectual disability and affecting approximately one in 1000 live births worldwide. The overexpression of genes encoded by the extra copy of a normal chromosome in DS is believed to be sufficient to perturb normal pathways and normal responses to stimulation, causing learning and memory deficits. In this work, we have designed a strategy based on the unsupervised clustering method, Self Organizing Maps (SOM), to identify biologically important differences in protein levels in mice exposed to context fear conditioning (CFC). We analyzed expression levels of 77 proteins obtained from normal genotype control mice and from their trisomic littermates (Ts65Dn) both with and without treatment with the drug memantine. Control mice learn successfully while the trisomic mice fail, unless they are first treated with the drug, which rescues their learning ability. The SOM approach identified reduced subsets of proteins predicted to make the most critical contributions to normal learning, to failed learning and rescued learning, and provides a visual representation of the data that allows the user to extract patterns that may underlie novel biological responses to the different kinds of learning and the response to memantine. Results suggest that the application of SOM to new experimental data sets of complex protein profiles can be used to identify common critical protein responses, which in turn may aid in identifying potentially more effective drug targets. PMID:26111164

Regulatory effect of Bcl-2 in ultraviolet radiation-induced apoptosis of the mouse crystalline lens

PubMed Central

DONG, YUCHEN; ZHENG, YAJUAN; XIAO, JUN; ZHU, CHAO; ZHAO, MEISHENG

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to analyze the role of Bcl-2 during the process of apoptosis in the mouse crystalline lens. In total, 12 normal mice served as the control group and 12 Bcl-2 knockout (K.O) mice served as the experimental group. The mouse crystalline lens was sampled for the detection of Bcl-2 and caspase-3 expression following exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to determine Bcl-2 expression in the groups of normal mice receiving UV radiation or not receiving UV radiation. Samples of the murine crystalline lens were microscopically harvested and analyzed using western blotting. Apoptosis was detected using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Furthermore, caspase 3 activity was examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits, and RT-qPCR was used to analyze caspase-3 expression levels. The results of the present study demonstrated that there was no statistically significant difference in the level of Bcl-2 gene transcription between the two groups. In addition, UV radiation did not change the macrostructure of the crystalline lens in the group of normal mice or the group of Bcl-2 K.O mice. The results of the TUNEL assay indicated that the normal-UV group exhibited a more significant apoptosis level compared with the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level of caspase-3 in the normal-UV group was significantly higher compared with the normal-nonUV group (P<0.05), while the levels in the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group were significantly higher compared with the Bcl-2 K.O and normal-nonUV groups (P<0.05). In addition, the mRNA expression level of caspase-3 was significantly higher in the normal-UV, as compared with the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group (P<0.05), and the variation trends in caspase-3 activity were consistent. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that Bcl-2 may have an important role in the promotion of UV-induced apoptosis in the crystalline lens. PMID:26998022

Regulatory effect of Bcl-2 in ultraviolet radiation-induced apoptosis of the mouse crystalline lens.

PubMed

Dong, Yuchen; Zheng, Yajuan; Xiao, Jun; Zhu, Chao; Zhao, Meisheng

2016-03-01

The aim of the present study was to analyze the role of Bcl-2 during the process of apoptosis in the mouse crystalline lens. In total, 12 normal mice served as the control group and 12 Bcl-2 knockout (K.O) mice served as the experimental group. The mouse crystalline lens was sampled for the detection of Bcl-2 and caspase-3 expression following exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to determine Bcl-2 expression in the groups of normal mice receiving UV radiation or not receiving UV radiation. Samples of the murine crystalline lens were microscopically harvested and analyzed using western blotting. Apoptosis was detected using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Furthermore, caspase 3 activity was examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits, and RT-qPCR was used to analyze caspase-3 expression levels. The results of the present study demonstrated that there was no statistically significant difference in the level of Bcl-2 gene transcription between the two groups. In addition, UV radiation did not change the macrostructure of the crystalline lens in the group of normal mice or the group of Bcl-2 K.O mice. The results of the TUNEL assay indicated that the normal-UV group exhibited a more significant apoptosis level compared with the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level of caspase-3 in the normal-UV group was significantly higher compared with the normal-nonUV group (P<0.05), while the levels in the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group were significantly higher compared with the Bcl-2 K.O and normal-nonUV groups (P<0.05). In addition, the mRNA expression level of caspase-3 was significantly higher in the normal-UV, as compared with the Bcl-2 K.O-UV group (P<0.05), and the variation trends in caspase-3 activity were consistent. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that Bcl-2 may have an important role in the promotion of UV-induced apoptosis in the crystalline lens.

Senile dementia of Lewy body type and Alzheimer type are biochemically distinct in terms of paired helical filaments and hyperphosphorylated tau protein.

PubMed

Harrington, C R; Perry, R H; Perry, E K; Hurt, J; McKeith, I G; Roth, M; Wischik, C M

1994-01-01

We have used biochemical assays to examine cingulate and occipital cortices from age-matched cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD; n = 12), senile dementia of the Lewy body type (SDLT; n = 13), Parkinson's disease (PD; 5 non-demented cases and 7 cognitively impaired cases) and controls (n = 11) for paired helical filaments (PHFs), phosphorylated and normal tau protein and beta/A4-protein. Whereas cingulate cortex is characterised by relatively high densities of cortical Lewy bodies in the SDLT cases and lower numbers in PD, these inclusion bodies were absent in the cingulate cortex from AD and control cases. Protease-resistant PHFs and hyperphosphorylated tau protein were found in AD and, at low levels, in a minority of SDLT cases. Qualitatively, both of these preparations were indistinguishable in SDLT from those found in AD but levels of both parameters in SDLT were less than 5% of those in AD. SDLT, PD and control groups did not differ from each other in terms of the quantity of protease-resistant PHFs or the level of hyperphosphorylated tau. Furthermore, PHF accumulation did not distinguish between PD cases with or without dementia. The levels of normal tau protein did not differ between the four groups. beta/A4 protein levels did not distinguish between PD and control groups, between AD and SDLT groups, or between SDLT and control groups for either cingulate or occipital cortices. Thus extensive accumulation of PHFs in either neurofibrillary tangles or dystrophic neurites is not a feature of either SDLT or PD. Our findings provide molecular support for the neuropathological and clinical separation of SDLT as a form of dementia that is distinct from AD.

Obesity is the main determinant of insulin resistance more than the circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

PubMed

Castillo-Hernandez, Jesus; Maldonado-Cervantes, Martha Imelda; Reyes, Juan Pablo; Patiño-Marin, Nuria; Maldonado-Cervantes, Enrique; Solorzano-Rodriguez, Claudia; de la Cruz Mendoza, Esperanza; Alvarado-Sanchez, Brenda

Systemic blockade of TNF-α in Rheumatoid arthritis with insulin resistance seems to produce more improvement in insulin sensitivity in normal weight patients with Rheumatoid arthritis than in obese patients with Rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting that systemic-inflammation and obesity are independent risk factors for insulin resistance in Rheumatoid arthritis patients. To evaluate the insulin resistance in: normal weight patients with Rheumatoid arthritis, overweight patients with Rheumatoid arthritis, obese Rheumatoid arthritis patients, and matched control subjects with normal weight and obesity; and its association with major cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Assessments included: body mass index, insulin resistance by Homeostasis Model Assessment, ELISA method, and enzymatic colorimetric assay. Outstanding results from these studies include: (1) In Rheumatoid arthritis patients, insulin resistance was well correlated with body mass index, but not with levels of serum cytokines. In fact, levels of cytokines were similar in all Rheumatoid arthritis patients, regardless of being obese, overweight or normal weight (2) Insulin resistance was significantly higher in Rheumatoid arthritis with normal weight than in normal weight (3) No significant difference was observed between insulin resistances of Rheumatoid arthritis with obesity and obesity (4) As expected, levels of circulating cytokines were significantly higher in Rheumatoid arthritis patients than in obesity. Obesity appears to be a dominant condition above inflammation to produce IR in RA patients. The dissociation of the inflammation and obesity components to produce IR suggests the need of an independent therapeutic strategy in obese patients with RA. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda.

Comparison of analytical methods of brain [18F]FDG-PET after severe traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Madsen, Karine; Hesby, Sara; Poulsen, Ingrid; Fuglsang, Stefan; Graff, Jesper; Larsen, Karen B; Kammersgaard, Lars P; Law, Ian; Siebner, Hartwig R

2017-11-01

Loss of consciousness has been shown to reduce cerebral metabolic rates of glucose (CMRglc) measured by brain [ 18 F]FDG-PET. Measurements of regional metabolic patterns by normalization to global cerebral metabolism or cerebellum may underestimate widespread reductions. The aim of this study was to compare quantification methods of whole brain glucose metabolism, including whole brain [18F]FDG uptake normalized to uptake in cerebellum, normalized to injected activity, normalized to plasma tracer concentration, and two methods for estimating CMRglc. Six patients suffering from severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and ten healthy controls (HC) underwent a 10min static [ 18 F]FDG-PET scan and venous blood sampling. Except from normalizing to cerebellum, all quantification methods found significant lower level of whole brain glucose metabolism of 25-33% in TBI patients compared to HC. In accordance these measurements correlated to level of consciousness. Our study demonstrates that the analysis method of the [ 18 F]FDG PET data has a substantial impact on the estimated whole brain cerebral glucose metabolism in patients with severe TBI. Importantly, the SUVR method which is often used in a clinical setting was not able to distinguish patients with severe TBI from HC at the whole-brain level. We recommend supplementing a static [ 18 F]FDG scan with a single venous blood sample in future studies of patients with severe TBI or reduced level of consciousness. This can be used for simple semi-quantitative uptake values by normalizing brain activity uptake to plasma tracer concentration, or quantitative estimates of CMRglc. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

ERP Correlates of Effortful Control in Children with Varying Levels of ADHD Symptoms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiersema, Jan R.; Roeyers, Herbert

2009-01-01

As effortful control (EC), the self-regulation aspect of temperament, has been argued to play a key role in the normal and psychopathological course of development, research adding to the construct validity of EC is needed. In the current study, interrelations between the temperament construct of EC and the efficiency of the executive attention…

[Molecular-genetic basis of regulation of the synthesis of individual types of hemoglobin].

PubMed

Starodub, N F

1980-01-01

The data on the control of ontogenetic hemoglobin type synthesis were analyzed in normal and pathological human and animal organisms. The assumption is made that such control depends on the level of erythroid cell differentiation and erythropoetic factors activity. The latters act as a trigger in switching of qualitative hemoglobin production.

METRO-APEX Volume 7.1: Air Pollution Control Officer's Manual. Revised.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

University of Southern California, Los Angeles. COMEX Research Project.

The Air Pollution Control Officer's Manual is one of a set of twenty-one manuals used in METRO-APEX 1974, a computerized college and professional level, computer-supported, role-play, simulation exercise of a community with "normal" problems. Stress is placed on environmental quality considerations. APEX 1974 is an expansion of APEX--Air…

Testosterone, aggression, and territoriality in male Western Screech-owls (Otus kennicottii): results from preliminary experiments

Treesearch

Brian L. Herting; James R. Belthoff

1997-01-01

Using a hormone implant protocol, we created treatment groups in which circulating levels of testosterone (T) were increased, decreased, or maintained at normal levels (controls) in male Western Screech-owls (Otus kennicottii). Owls were exposed to tape-recorded vocalizations of a conspecific, to which territory holders responded with aggression....

Acarbose

MedlinePlus

... condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of ... When used in combination with insulin or other medications used to treat diabetes, acarbose may cause excessive lowering of blood sugar levels.If you have any of ...

Feedforward somatosensory inhibition is normal in cervical dystonia.

PubMed

Ferrè, Elisa R; Ganos, Christos; Bhatia, Kailash P; Haggard, Patrick

2015-03-01

Insufficient cortical inhibition is a key pathophysiological finding in dystonia. Subliminal sensory stimuli were reported to transiently inhibit somatosensory processing. Here we investigated whether such subliminal feedforward inhibition is reduced in patients with cervical dystonia. Sixteen cervical dystonia patients and 16 matched healthy controls performed a somatosensory detection task. We measured the drop in sensitivity to detect a threshold-level digital nerve shock when it was preceded by a subliminal conditioning shock, compared to when it was not. Subliminal conditioning shocks reduced sensitivity to threshold stimuli to a similar extent in both patients and controls, suggesting that somatosensory subliminal feedforward inhibition is normal in cervical dystonia. Somatosensory feedforward inhibition was normal in this group of cervical dystonia patients. Our results qualify previous concepts of a general dystonic deficit in sensorimotor inhibitory processing. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Added sugars and risk factors for obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

PubMed

Rippe, J M; Angelopoulos, T J

2016-03-01

The effects of added sugars on various chronic conditions are highly controversial. Some investigators have argued that added sugars increase the risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, few randomized controlled trials are available to support these assertions. The literature is further complicated by animal studies, as well as studies which compare pure fructose to pure glucose (neither of which is consumed to any appreciable degree in the human diet) and studies where large doses of added sugars beyond normal levels of human consumption have been administered. Various scientific and public health organizations have offered disparate recommendations for upper limits of added sugar. In this article, we will review recent randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies. We conclude that the normal added sugars in the human diet (for example, sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup and isoglucose) when consumed within the normal range of normal human consumption or substituted isoenergetically for other carbohydrates, do not appear to cause a unique risk of obesity, diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Submonolayer Quantum Dot Infrared Photodetector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ting, David Z.; Bandara, Sumith V.; Gunapala, Sarath D.; Chang, Yia-Chang

2010-01-01

A method has been developed for inserting submonolayer (SML) quantum dots (QDs) or SML QD stacks, instead of conventional Stranski-Krastanov (S-K) QDs, into the active region of intersubband photodetectors. A typical configuration would be InAs SML QDs embedded in thin layers of GaAs, surrounded by AlGaAs barriers. Here, the GaAs and the AlGaAs have nearly the same lattice constant, while InAs has a larger lattice constant. In QD infrared photodetector, the important quantization directions are in the plane perpendicular to the normal incidence radiation. In-plane quantization is what enables the absorption of normal incidence radiation. The height of the S-K QD controls the positions of the quantized energy levels, but is not critically important to the desired normal incidence absorption properties. The SML QD or SML QD stack configurations give more control of the structure grown, retains normal incidence absorption properties, and decreases the strain build-up to allow thicker active layers for higher quantum efficiency.

Changes in human parotid salivary protein and sialic acid levels during pregnancy.

PubMed

D'Alessandro, S; Curbelo, H M; Tumilasci, O R; Tessler, J A; Houssay, A B

1989-01-01

Saliva was collected with a Carlson-Crittenden device, under citric acid stimulation, in 107 pregnant women, 9 puerperal and 7 non-pregnant controls. No significant changes were found in salivary flow rate, pH and amylase levels. The total protein levels were decreased during pregnancy and the puerperium. The sialic acid levels decreased gradually but markedly during pregnancy, returning to normal levels in the puerperium. These changes in parotid saliva may be related to the hormonal changes of pregnancy.

Neuroprotective effect of Annona glabra extract against ethanol-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration in neonatal rats.

PubMed

Ma, Hongru; Han, Jianfeng; Dong, Qinchuan

2018-04-01

The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of Annona glabra extract (AGE) against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration in neonatal rats. AGE is known to contain various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Phytochemical analysis of AGE was performed to understand the presence of vital therapeutic components. Neonatal rats were assigned to the following groups: group I (normal control rats receiving normal saline), group II (control rats receiving ethanol), and group III (treated rats receiving ethanol-AGE). The lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) levels were determined. Behavioral parameters, histological features, neuronal cell viability, and apoptosis were also investigated. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoid, glycosides, steroids, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones, and acidic compounds was noted in the AGE. Ethanol supplementation drastically increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content to 52.17 nmol/g in the control rats (group II). However, the MDA content was reduced to 27.34 nmol/g in ethanol-AGE-treated neonatal rats (group III) compared with control rats. The GSH content was substantially reduced, to 33.68 mg/g, in control rats compared with in normal control rats. However, the GSH content was significantly increased, to 59.32 mg/g, following ethanol-AGE supplementation. Gpx, SOD, catalase, and AChE enzyme activities were increased in treated neonatal rats compared with their respective controls. Locomotor activities, such as crossing, grooming, rearing, and sniffing, were increased in ethanol-AGE-treated neonatal rats compared with controls. Reduced levels of intact pyramidal cells and cells with degenerative alterations appeared in the control rats. However, ethanol-AGE supplementation reduced degenerative alterations and hippocampal damage. Reduced cultured hippocampal neuron cell viability and increased apoptosis were noted in the control rats, whereas these impacts were significantly recovered following ethanol-AGE supplementation. Based on all these data, we concluded that the supplementation of AGE was very effective against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration in neonatal rats. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Primary nocturnal enuresis in children. Background and treatment.

PubMed

Wille, S

1994-01-01

The aim of the present studies was to investigate background factors and treatment in children with monosymptomatic primary nocturnal enuresis. The study material comprised enuretics, former enuretics and controls from the municipal community of Falkenberg on the west coast of Sweden. Whenever possible all investigations were made with the children staying in their own home environment. Different background factors have been suspected as being causative: sleep disturbances, behavioural or psychological disturbances, small bladder capacity, increased night diuresis and an insufficient production of the antidiuretic hormone during sleep. These factors have been investigated in these studies. The treatment of enuresis has been dominated by the alarm and antidiuretic treatment with DDAVP. Primary nocturnal monosymptomatic enuresis is a common problem in childhood. In this study the prevalence among 392 seven year old children was 7.3%. A prior history of enuresis was found in 65% of families of the enuretics compared to 25% in controls. The enuretic children showed no statistically significant differences in behavioural or psychological problems compared to non-enuretic children. Enuretic children were described as heavy sleepers by their parents and a wake-up test performed at home showed that they were statistically significantly harder to arouse than the controls. Children with nocturnal enuresis, former enuretics and controls did not differ in social or behavioural traits in an interview study. No signs of symptom substitution was found when enuresis was resolved. Enuretic children had a normal bladder capacity and no statistically significant difference was found compared to controls and former enuretics. The enuretic children showed a normal calcium-creatinine quota in the urine. Former enuretic children showed a significantly enhanced calcium/creatinine quota compared to enuretics and controls. Enuretic children had a statistically significant lower morning plasma level of the anti diuretic hormone vasopressin than non-enuretic children. Enuretic children were treated for 12 weeks with DDAVP or the alarm. DDAVP treated patients had a more rapid effect compared with alarm treated patients. Alarm treated children had a lower relapse frequency. Enuretic children were treated in a randomised, double blind, double dummy, cross over, placebo-controlled study with DDAVP 20 micrograms intranasally by a single dose pipette or 200 micrograms orally as a tablet. Both methods were equally effective in controlling enuresis, but significantly superior to placebo. Enuretic children are normal, well adjusted children with a normal bladder capacity, a high level of arousal threshold, and a low morning level of plasma vasopressin. The alarm and DDAVP are equally effective in treating enuresis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Effects of the Cynanchum wilfordii Ethanol Extract on the Serum Lipid Profile in Hypercholesterolemic Rats.

PubMed

Lee, Hye-Sung; Choi, Jun-Hyeok; Kim, Young-Eon; Kim, In-Ho; Kim, Byoung-Mok; Lee, Chang-Ho

2013-09-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the ethanol extract of Cynanchum wilfordii (ECW) on the blood lipid profile of hypercholesterolemic rats. Thirty 7-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were allowed free access to either a normal diet (AIN-93 diet), or 1% high-cholesterol diet with or without 0.5% or 1% ECW for 5 weeks. After sacrifice, the rat serum lipid profile was analyzed. The diets containing ECW decreased body weight gains compared to the normal diet. Serum HDL-cholesterol levels of ECW-fed groups were significantly increased in the hypercholesterolemic groups and normal groups (P<0.05). When 1% ECW was fed to the normal group, total cholesterol level was increased. Moreover, treatment of ECW in hypercholesterolemic groups yielded a dose-dependent and highly significant decrease in the atherogenic index as compared to the control. These results suggest that intake of Cynanchum wilfordii may help reduce the risks of hypercholesterolemia by increasing blood HDL-cholesterol and lowering the atherogenic index.

Extended findings of Brain Metabolite Normalization in MA-Dependent Subjects Across Sustained Abstinence: A Proton MRS Study

PubMed Central

Salo, Ruth; Buonocore, Michael H.; Leamon, Martin; Natsuaki, Yutaka; Waters, Christy; Moore, Charles D.; Galloway, Gantt P.; Nordahl, Thomas E.

2010-01-01

Objective The goal of the present study was to extend our previous findings on long-term methamphetamine (MA) use and drug abstinence on brain metabolite levels in an expanded group of MA-dependent individuals. Methods Seventeen MA abusers with sustained drug abstinence (1 year to 5 years), 30 MA abusers with short-term drug abstinence (1 month to 6 months) and 24 non-substance using controls were studied using MR spectroscopy (MRS). MRS measures of NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA were obtained in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and in the primary visual cortex (PVC). Results ACC-Cho/NAA values were abnormally high in the short-term abstinent group compared to controls [F(1,52)=18.76, p<0.0001]. No differences were observed between controls and the long-term abstinent group [F(1,39)=0.97, p=0.97]. New evidence of lower ACC-NAA/Cr levels were observed in the short-term abstinent MA abusers compared to controls [F(1,52)=23.05, p<0.0001] and long-term abstinent MA abusers [F(1,45)=7.06, p=0.01]. No differences were observed between long-term abstinent MA abusers and controls [F(1,39)=0.48, p=0.49]. Conclusions The new findings of relative NAA/Cr normalization across periods of abstinence suggest that adaptive changes following cessation of MA abuse may be broader than initially thought. These changes may contribute to some degree of normalization of neuronal function in the ACC. PMID:20739127

Stimulatory effect of clebopride on human prolactin secretion.

PubMed

Perez-Lopez, F R; Legido, A; Sisskin, M; Abos, M D

1980-11-01

Serum levels of prolactin (PRL), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured in normally cycling women and normal men before and after oral admiministration of 1 mg of clebopride, a derivative of procainamide used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Clebopride produced a significant increase (P < 0.001) in serum PRL to a 6-fold peak as compared with basal levels. After 240 minutes the levels remained significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the mean basal level at -30 and 0 minutes. No significant effects of clebopride were noted upon the circulating levels of LH and FSH. The peak PRL response to clebopride was unaffected by pretreatment with 100 mg of nomifensine, although the secretory area from 120 to 210 minutes after clebopride was greater (P < 0.05) in the nomifensine-treated group than in the control experiment. When 5 mg of bromocriptine were given before clebopride, the PRL response was completely abolished as compared with the control experiment (P < 0.001). Our data provide new evidence that dopaminergic receptors of the adeylate cyclase system are involved in the regulation of PRL secretion, acting at the pituitary level rather than acting on the hypothalamus. The PRL-releasing activity of clebopride could be the explanation for the occasional menstrual disorders and galactorrhea registered in some cases of long-term treatment.

Betacellulin overexpression in the mouse ovary leads to MAPK3/MAPK1 hyperactivation and reduces litter size by impairing fertilization.

PubMed

Gratao, Ana A; Dahlhoff, Maik; Sinowatz, Fred; Wolf, Eckhard; Schneider, Marlon R

2008-01-01

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its ligands are emerging as key molecules in regulating female reproduction. Here, we used a transgenic mouse model to evaluate whether and at which level of the reproduction cascade higher-than-normal levels of the EGFR ligand betacellulin (BTC) in the reproductive organs affect fertility. Western blots and immunohistochemistry revealed increased BTC levels in uterus and ovaries from transgenic females, particularly evident in granulosa cells of antral follicles. Onset of puberty, estrous cyclicity, and the anatomy and histology of reproductive organs at puberty were not altered as compared to control females. Fertility tests revealed a reduction (~50%) in litter size as the major reproductive deficit of transgenic females. Embryo implantation was delayed in transgenic females, but this was not the reason for the reduced litter size. Transgenic females produced a normal number of oocytes after natural ovulation. The in vivo fertilization rate was significantly reduced in untreated transgenic females but returned to normal levels after superovulation. Impaired oocyte fertilization in the absence of superovulation treatment was associated with MAPK3/MAPK1 hyperactivation in BTC transgenic ovaries, whereas similar levels of MAPK3/MAPK1 activation were detected in transgenic and control ovaries after superovulation treatment. Thus, tight regulation of MAPK3/MAPK1 activity appears to be essential for appropriate granulosa cell function during oocyte maturation. Our study identified hitherto unknown effects of BTC overabundance in reproduction and suggests BTC as a novel candidate protein for the modulation of fertility.

A rabbit vocal fold laser scarring model for testing lamina propria tissue engineering therapies

PubMed Central

Mau, Ted; Du, Mindy; Xu, Chet C.

2015-01-01

Objectives/Hypothesis To develop a vocal fold scarring model using an ablative laser in the rabbit as a platform for testing bioengineered therapies for missing or damaged lamina propria. Study Design Prospective controlled animal study. Methods An optimal laser energy level was first determined by assessing the depths of vocal fold injury created by a Holmium:YAG laser at various energy levels on fresh cadaveric rabbit larynges. The selected energy level was then used to create controlled unilateral injuries in vocal folds of New Zealand white rabbits, with the contralateral folds serving as uninjured controls. After 4 weeks, the larynges were harvested and subjected to excised-larynx phonation with high-speed imaging and immunohistochemical staining for collagen types I and III, elastin, and hyaluronic acid (HA) with quantitative histological analysis. Results 1.8 joules produced full-thickness injury of the lamina propria without extensive muscle injury. After 4 weeks, the injured vocal folds vibrated with reduced amplitude (P = 0.036) in excised-larynx phonation compared to normal vocal folds. The injured vocal folds contained a higher relative density of collagen type I (P = 0.004), higher elastin (P = 0.022), and lower HA (P = 0.030) compared to normal controls. Collagen type III was unchanged. Conclusions With its potential for higher precision of injury, this laser vocal fold scarring model may serve as an alternative to scarring produced by cold instruments for studying the effects of vocal fold lamina propria bioengineered therapies. Level of Evidence N/A. PMID:24715695

Contralateral suppression of transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions in children with sickle cell disease.

PubMed

Stuart, Andrew; Preast, June L

2012-01-01

In previous studies, otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) have been found to be larger in normal-hearing children with sickle cell disease (SCD). It was hypothesized that some dysfunction or reduction in the medial olivocochlear efferent suppression of outer hair cell activity was responsible for this phenomenon. To test this hypothesis, contralateral suppression of transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) was examined in children with and without SCD. Thirteen African American school-aged normal-hearing children with homozygous SCD and 13 age- and gender-matched control children participated. TEOAEs were obtained bilaterally with 80 dB peSPL nonlinear click stimuli. To examine contralateral suppression, TEOAEs were obtained with 60 dB peSPL linear click stimuli with and without a contralateral 65 dB SPL white noise suppressor. Overall and half-octave band TEOAE levels were found to be larger in children with SCD relative to the normal control children (p < 0.05), consistent with previous reports of increased OAE levels. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the absolute or proportional amount of TEOAE suppression as a function of group and ear. There were also no significant correlations or linear predictive relationships between TEOAE suppression and TEOAE level for either ear or group (p > 0.05). These findings do not support the notion that increased OAE levels in children with SCD are a consequence of abnormal medial olivocochlear system function as assessed with contralateral suppression of TEOAEs.

Dysfunction of protein kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha in lymphocytes of patients with schizophrenic disorder.

PubMed

Yang, S D; Yu, J S; Lee, T T; Yang, C C; Ni, M H; Yang, Y Y

1995-09-01

As compared to normal people, the lymphocytes of patients with schizophrenia were found to have an impairment of ATP.Mg-dependent protein phosphatase activation. More importantly, the impaired protein phosphatase activation in the lymphocytes of schizophrenic patients could be consistently and completely restored to normal by exogenous pure protein kinase FA/glycogen synthase kinase-3 alpha (kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha) (the activating factor of ATP.Mg-dependent protein phosphatase), indicating that the molecular mechanism for the impaired protein phosphatase activation in schizophrenic patients may be due to a functional loss of kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha. Immunoblotting and kinase activity analysis in an anti-kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha immunoprecipitate further demonstrate that both cellular activities and protein levels of kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha in the lymphocytes of schizophrenic patients were greatly impared as compared to normal controls. Statistical analysis revealed that the lymphocytes isolated from 37 normal people contain kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha activity in the high levels of 14.8 +/- 2.4 units/mg of cell protein, whereas the lymphocytes of 48 patients with schizophrenic disorder contain kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha activity in the low levels of 2.8 +/- 1.6 units/mg, indicating that the different levels of kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha activity between schizophrenic patients and normal people are statistically significant. Taken together, the results provide initial evidence that patients with schizophrenic disorder may have a common impairment in the protein levels and cellular activities of kinase FA/GSK-3 alpha, a multisubstrate protein kinase and a multisubstrate protein phosphatase activator in their lymphocytes.

Apparatus for controlling coolant level in a liquid-metal-cooled nuclear reactor

DOEpatents

Jones, Robert D.

1978-01-01

A liquid-metal-cooled fast-breeder reactor which has a thermal liner spaced inwardly of the pressure vessel and includes means for passing bypass coolant through the annulus between the thermal liner and the pressure vessel to insulate the pressure vessel from hot outlet coolant includes control ports in the thermal liner a short distance below the normal operating coolant level in the reactor and an overflow nozzle in the pressure vessel below the control ports connected to an overflow line including a portion at an elevation such that overflow coolant flow is established when the coolant level in the reactor is above the top of the coolant ports. When no makeup coolant is added, bypass flow is inwardly through the control ports and there is no overflow; when makeup coolant is being added, coolant flow through the overflow line will maintain the coolant level.

[Clinical Feature in Infants of Breast Feeding Allergy and Its Possible Relation with Gastrointestinal Peptide Change in Breast Milk].

PubMed

Xie, Yong-Mei; Gao, Shan; Wang, Li-Yuan; Wang, Zhi-Ling; Cai, Xiao-Tang; Zhou, Hui

2017-01-01

To investigate clinical features in infants of breast milk allergy(BMA), and the possible relationship with the changes of somatostatin (SST) and motilin (MTL) in breast milk. Twenty three cases of pure breast feeding infants with allergic gastroenteritis were collected, while another 23 normal infants with pure breast feeding were enrolled as normal controls. Samples of infant stools and breast milk were collected for the measurement of SST and MTL levels detected by by radioimmunity. The levels of SST and MTL in stool samples (pg/mg) were 32.6±8.9, 2.3±3.7 in BMA group and 56.2±12.7, 21.6±4.7 in normal control group, respectively. Those in breast milk (pg/mg) were 236.7±28.9, 159.4±36.7 in BMA group and 412.6±36.7, 216.8±59.7 in normal control group, respectively. All the differences were statistically significant ( P <0.05). In BMA infants, the clinical features were 91.3% (20/23) of diarrhea, 86.9% (21/23) of vomiting, 69.6% (16/23) of hematochezia, 95.7% (22/23) of C-reactive protein (CRP) increasing, 87.0% (20/23) of occult blood in stools, 73.9% (17/23) of neutrophil increasing, 39.1% (9/23) of WBC in stools. For those infants of breast feeding with persisting and repeated gastrointestinal symptoms, allergy for breast milk should be considered. Deficiency of SST and MTL in breast milk may be a possible cause for food allergy.

Inhibition of stress-inducible HSP70 impairs mitochondrial proteostasis and function.

PubMed

Leu, Julia I-Ju; Barnoud, Thibaut; Zhang, Gao; Tian, Tian; Wei, Zhi; Herlyn, Meenhard; Murphy, Maureen E; George, Donna L

2017-07-11

Protein quality control is an important component of survival for all cells. The use of proteasome inhibitors for cancer therapy derives from the fact that tumor cells generally exhibit greater levels of proteotoxic stress than do normal cells, and thus cancer cells tend to be more sensitive to proteasome inhibition. However, this approach has been limited in some cases by toxicity to normal cells. Recently, the concept of inhibiting proteostasis in organelles for cancer therapy has been advanced, in part because it is predicted to have reduced toxicity for normal cells. Here we demonstrate that a fraction of the major stress-induced chaperone HSP70 (also called HSPA1A or HSP72, but hereafter HSP70) is abundantly present in mitochondria of tumor cells, but is expressed at quite low or undetectable levels in mitochondria of most normal tissues and non-tumor cell lines. We show that treatment of tumor cells with HSP70 inhibitors causes a marked change in mitochondrial protein quality control, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced oxygen consumption rate, and loss of ATP production. We identify several nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins, including polyadenylate binding protein-1 (PABPC1), which exhibit decreased abundance in mitochondria following treatment with HSP70 inhibitors. We also show that targeting HSP70 function leads to reduced levels of several mitochondrial-encoded RNA species that encode components of the electron transport chain. Our data indicate that small molecule inhibitors of HSP70 represent a new class of organelle proteostasis inhibitors that impair mitochondrial function in cancer cells, and therefore constitute novel therapeutics.

IGF-1R mRNA expression is increased in obese children.

PubMed

Ricco, Rafaela Cristina; Ricco, Rubens Garcia; Queluz, Mariangela Carletti; de Paula, Mariana Teresa Sarti; Atique, Patricia Volpon; Custódio, Rodrigo José; Tourinho Filho, Hugo; Del Roio Liberatori, Raphael; Martinelli, Carlos Eduardo

2018-04-01

Obese children are often taller than age-matched subjects. Reports on GH and IGF-I levels in obese individuals are controversial, with normal and reduced GH-IGF-I levels having been reported in this group of patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyse insulin-like growth factor type 1 receptor (IGF-IR) mRNA expression in obese children. Forty-seven pre-pubertal children were included in this study: 29 were obese and taller than their target height, and 18 were normal eutrophic controls. Fasting blood samples were collected for IGF-IR mRNA expression in isolated lymphocytes and serum IGF-I, ALS, IGFBP-3, and IGFBP-1 concentration analysis. Relative IGF-IR gene expression (2 -ΔΔCT ) was significantly (P=0.025) higher in obese children (median 1.87) than in controls (1.15). Fourteen of the 29 obese subjects showed 2 -ΔΔCT values greater than or equal to 2, while only 2 individuals in the control group showed values above 2 (P=0.01). Obese children showed significantly (P=0.01) higher IGF-I concentrations than the control group (237ng/ml and 144ng/ml, respectively). Among obese patients, 65.5% had IGF-I values above the 75 percentile of the control group (P=0.02). ALS concentration was significantly (P=0.04) higher in the obese group, while IGFBP-3 levels were similar in obese and control children. IGFBP-1 concentration was lower in obese children, while insulin levels and HOMA-IR index were higher than in controls. The higher IGF-IR mRNA expression observed in obese children, associated with the higher IGF-I and ALS and the lower IGFBP-1 levels, suggest that the higher stature observed in these children may be due to increased IGF-I bioactivity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Plasma kisspeptin levels in male cases with hypogonadism.

PubMed

Kotani, Masato; Katagiri, Fumihiko; Hirai, Tsuyoshi; Kagawa, Jiro

2014-01-01

The hypothalamic hormone kisspeptin (metastin) regulates human reproduction by modulating gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Kisspeptin is detected in peripheral blood, although GnRH is not. In this study, we measured plasma kisspeptin levels in four male cases with hypogonadism and seven normal male controls using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to elucidate the clinical implications of kisspeptin levels in male hypogonadism. The results showed a variety of plasma kisspeptin levels: 6.0 fmol/mL in a male with isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH), 43.2 fmol/mL in a male with Kallmann's syndrome, 40.7 fmol/mL in a male with azoospermia, 323.2 fmol/mL in a male with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, and 12.3 ± 2.5 fmol/mL (mean ± SD) in seven normal controls. Except for the case with IHH, the plasma kisspetin levels were elevated in the three cases with Kallmann's syndrome, azoospermia, and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. The reason why the three cases had high values was their lesions were downstream of the kisspeptin neuron in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, suggesting that elevated kisspeptin levels were implicated in hypothalamic kisspeptin secretion under decreased negative feedback of gonadal steroids. The result that the plasma kisspeptin levels were decreased by gonadotropin therapy in the case with Kallmann's syndrome supported this hypothesis. In conclusion, to measure plasma kisspeptin levels could be useful for better understanding of male hypogonadism.

Elevated prefrontal cortex γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate-glutamine levels in schizophrenia measured in vivo with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Kegeles, Lawrence S; Mao, Xiangling; Stanford, Arielle D; Girgis, Ragy; Ojeil, Najate; Xu, Xiaoyan; Gil, Roberto; Slifstein, Mark; Abi-Dargham, Anissa; Lisanby, Sarah H; Shungu, Dikoma C

2012-05-01

Postmortem studies have found evidence of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) deficits in fast-spiking, parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the prefrontal cortex in schizophrenia. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies in unmedicated patients have reported glutamine or glutamate-glutamine (Glx) elevations in this region. Abnormalities in these transmitters are thought to play a role in cognitive impairments in the illness. To measure GABA and Glx levels in vivo in 2 prefrontal brain regions in unmedicated and medicated patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls. Case-control study. Inpatient psychiatric research unit and associated outpatient clinic. Sixteen unmedicated patients with schizophrenia, 16 medicated patients, and 22 healthy controls matched for age, sex, ethnicity, parental socioeconomic status, and cigarette smoking. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy with a 3-T system and the J-edited spin-echo difference method. The GABA and Glx levels were measured in the dorsolateral and medial prefrontal cortex and normalized to the simultaneously acquired water signal. Working memory performance was assessed in all subjects. The GABA and Glx concentrations determined by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In the medial prefrontal cortex region, 30% elevations were found in GABA (P = .02) and Glx (P = .03) levels in unmedicated patients compared with controls. There were no alterations in the medicated patients or in either group in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Both regions showed correlations between GABA and Glx levels in patients and controls. No correlations with working memory performance were found. To our knowledge, this study presents the first GABA concentration measurements in unmedicated patients with schizophrenia, who showed elevations in both GABA and Glx levels in the medial prefrontal cortex but not the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Medicated patients did not show these elevations, suggesting possible normalization of levels with antipsychotic medication. The Glx elevations agree with prior magnetic resonance spectroscopy literature, but GABA elevations were unexpected and suggest possible involvement of classes of interneurons not found to show impairments in postmortem studies.

Criticality Safety Evaluation for Small Sample Preparation and Non-Destructive Assay (NDA) Operations in Wing 7 Basement of the CMR Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kunkle, Paige Elizabeth; Zhang, Ning

Nuclear Criticality Safety (NCS) has reviewed the fissionable material small sample preparation and NDA operations in Wing 7 Basement of the CMR Facility. This is a Level-1 evaluation conducted in accordance with NCS-AP-004 [Reference 1], formerly NCS-GUIDE-01, and the guidance set forth on use of the Standard Criticality Safety Requirements (SCSRs) [Reference 2]. As stated in Reference 2, the criticality safety evaluation consists of both the SCSR CSED and the SCSR Application CSED. The SCSR CSED is a Level-3 CSED [Reference 3]. This Level-1 CSED is the SCSR Application CSED. This SCSR Application (Level-1) evaluation does not derive controls, itmore » simply applies controls derived from the SCSR CSED (Level-3) for the application of operations conducted here. The controls derived in the SCSR CSED (Level-3) were evaluated via the process described in Section 6.6.5 of SD-130 (also reproduced in Section 4.3.5 of NCS-AP-004 [Reference 1]) and were determined to not meet the requirements for consideration of elevation into the safety basis documentation for CMR. According to the guidance set forth on use of the SCSRs [Reference 2], the SCSR CSED (Level-3) is also applicable to the CMR Facility because the process and the normal and credible abnormal conditions in question are bounded by those that are described in the SCSR CSED. The controls derived in the SCSR CSED include allowances for solid materials and solution operations. Based on the operations conducted at this location, there are less-than-accountable (LTA) amounts of 233U. Based on the evaluation documented herein, the normal and credible abnormal conditions that might arise during the execution of this process will remain subcritical with the following recommended controls.« less

Hyperventilation in patients who have sustained myocardial infarction after a work injury.

PubMed Central

Rosen, S D; King, J C; Nixon, P G

1994-01-01

Patients who present with acute myocardial infarction after a work injury (AMI-WI) often report symptoms consistent with chronic hyperventilation which date back as far as the work injury itself, rather than to the AMI. The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that hyperventilation significantly contributes to the symptoms of AMI-WI patients. The prevalence of hyperventilation was assessed by clinical capnography in 12 AMI-WI patients, 20 normal controls, 15 AMI patients whose AMI was conventional and not subsequent to a work injury (AMI-C) and 14 patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). End-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure (P(et)CO2) was measured at rest, after 1 min hyperventilation (FHPT), after recall of the relevant stressor (Think) and when the breathing was felt to be normal (MBIN). P(et)CO2 levels after FHPT were: 29.0 +/- 1.5 (mean +/- SD) mmHg for AMI-WI; 26.7 +/- 1.9 mmHg for PTSD; 32.1 +/- 4.1 mmHg for AMI-C and 33.7 +/- 1.4 mmHg for the controls (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 for AMI-WI and PTSD, respectively, versus controls). After Think, the levels were 25.8 +/- 1.6 mmHg for AMI-WI, 24.6 +/- 1.4 mmHg for PTSD, 31.2 +/- 4.1 mmHg for AMI-C and 31.2 +/- 1.5 mmHg for normals (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 for AMI-WI and PTSD, respectively, versus controls). For MBIN, values of P(et)CO2 were 26.8 +/- 1.7 mmHg and 26.7 +/- 1.5 mmHg for AMI-WI and PTSD versus 33.8 +/- 1.2 mmHg for normals, (P < 0.01 for both versus controls).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:8207722

Investigation of the effects of the level of glycemic control on erectile function and pathophysiological mechanisms in diabetic rats.

PubMed

Cho, Sung Yong; Chai, Ji Sun; Lee, Sun Hee; Park, Kwanjin; Paick, Jae-Seung; Kim, Soo Woong

2012-06-01

Poor glycemic control is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED); however, differences in ED according to the level of glycemic control have been poorly investigated. The aim of this paper is to investigate the change in erectile function according to the level of glycemic control and to clarify the pathophysiological mechanism of diabetes-associated ED. Streptozotocin was injected into 55 male Sprague-Dawley rats classified into four groups: control (group 1), diabetes with multiple insulin injections (group 2), diabetes with a single injection (group 3), and untreated diabetes (group 4). Daily insulin injections in groups 2 and 3 were administered for 4 weeks after 10 weeks of diabetic induction. The main outcome measures are the anova or Kruskal-Wallis tests to evaluate glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), testosterone levels, the ratios of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP), area under the ICP curve to MAP (AUC/MAP), and changes in cavernous tissue and protein expression related to Rho kinase and nitric oxide pathways. HbA1c levels were different between pairs of groups. Group 4 showed the lowest erectile parameters and group 2 showed near normal level. No differences in erectile parameters were found between groups 1 and 2 or between groups 3 and 4, except the ratio of AUC to MAP for group 1 was significantly higher than that of group 2 (20 Hz stimulation). Decrease in erectile function of group 2 was related to decreased expression of nitrergic nitric oxide synthase or decreased testosterone level compared with group 1. Groups 2 and 3 showed significant differences in erectile parameters, which were associated with difference in apoptotic index. Groups 3 and 4 showed no differences in erectile parameters, although these groups had significant differences in apoptotic index, smooth muscle component, and protein expression ratios of phosphorylated to total myosin phosphatase target subunit 1, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and Akt. Improvement in glycemic control assists recovery from diabetes-associated ED; however, only tight glycemic control can provide recovery from ED to a near normal status. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Hypothalamic amenorrhea with normal body weight: ACTH, allopregnanolone and cortisol responses to corticotropin-releasing hormone test.

PubMed

Meczekalski, B; Tonetti, A; Monteleone, P; Bernardi, F; Luisi, S; Stomati, M; Luisi, M; Petraglia, F; Genazzani, A R

2000-03-01

Hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) is a functional disorder caused by disturbances in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulsatility. The mechanism by which stress alters GnRH release is not well known. Recently, the role of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and neurosteroids in the pathophysiology of HA has been considered. The aim of the present study was to explore further the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in HA. We included 8 patients (aged 23.16+/-1.72 years) suffering from hypothalamic stress-related amenorrhea with normal body weight and 8 age-matched healthy controls in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. We measured basal serum levels of FSH, LH, and estradiol and evaluated ACTH, allopregnanolone and cortisol responses to CRH test in both HA patients and healthy women. Serum basal levels of FSH, LH, and estradiol as well as basal levels of allopregnanolone were significantly lower in HA patients than in controls (P<0.001) while basal ACTH and cortisol levels were significantly higher in amenorrheic patients with respect to controls (P<0.001). The response (area under the curve) of ACTH, allopregnanolone and cortisol to CRH was significantly lower in amenorrheic women compared with controls (P<0.001, P<0.05, P<0.05 respectively). In conclusion, women with HA, despite the high ACTH and cortisol levels and, therefore, hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivity, are characterized by low allopregnanolone basal levels, deriving from an impairment of both adrenal and ovarian synthesis. The blunted ACTH, allopregnanolone and cortisol responses to CRH indicate that, in hypothalamic amenorrhea, there is a reduced sensitivity and expression of CRH receptor. These results open new perspectives on the role of neurosteroids in the pathogenesis of hypothalamic amenorrhea.

Platelet morphology, soluble P selectin and platelet P-selectin in acute ischaemic stroke. The West Birmingham Stroke Project.

PubMed

Nadar, Sunil K; Lip, Gregory Y H; Blann, Andrew D

2004-12-01

The pathophysiology of ischaemic stroke involves the platelet. In this study, we hypothesised that abnormalities in platelet morphology, as well as soluble (sPsel) and total platelet P-selectin (pPsel) levels would be present in patients presenting with an acute ischaemic stroke, and that these changes would improve at > or = 3 months' follow-up. We studied 59 hypertensive patients (34 male; mean age 68 +/- 12 years) who presented with an acute ischaemic stroke (ictus < 24 hours), and compared them with 2 groups: (i) age-, sex- and ethnic- origin matched normotensive healthy controls; and (ii) uncomplicated 'high risk' hypertensive patients as 'risk factor control' subjects. Platelet morphology (volume and mass) was quantified, and sPsel (plasma marker of platelet activation) was measured (ELISA) in citrated plasma. The mass of P-selectin in each platelet (pPsel) was determined by lysing a fixed number of platelets and then determining the levels of P-selectin in the lysate. Results show that patients who presented with a stroke had significantly higher levels of sPsel and pPsel (both p < 0.001), compared to the normal controls and the hypertensive patients. Patients with an acute stroke had lower mean platelet mass (MPM) and mean platelet volume (MPV) as compared to the uncomplicated hypertensive patients, who had significantly higher mean MPM and MPV values, as compared to normal controls. On follow-up, the levels of both sPsel (p = 0.011), pPsel (< 0.001) and MPV (p = 0.03) were significantly lower. Mean MPM levels remained unchanged. We conclude that patients presenting with an acute ischaemic stroke have activated platelets, as evident by the increased levels of soluble and platelet P-selectin. Further study of platelet activation and the role of P-selectin is warranted.

Mössbauer Spectra of Mouse Hearts Reveal Age-dependent Changes in Mitochondrial and Ferritin Iron Levels.

PubMed

Wofford, Joshua D; Chakrabarti, Mrinmoy; Lindahl, Paul A

2017-03-31

Cardiac function requires continuous high levels of energy, and so iron, a critical player in mitochondrial respiration, is an important component of the heart. Hearts from 57 Fe-enriched mice were evaluated by Mössbauer spectroscopy. Spectra consisted of a sextet and two quadrupole doublets. One doublet was due to residual blood, whereas the other was due to [Fe 4 S 4 ] 2+ clusters and low-spin Fe II hemes, most of which were associated with mitochondrial respiration. The sextet was due to ferritin; there was no evidence of hemosiderin, a ferritin decomposition product. Iron from ferritin was nearly absent in young hearts, but increased steadily with age. EPR spectra exhibited signals similar to those of brain, liver, and human cells. No age-dependent EPR trends were apparent. Hearts from HFE -/- mice with hemochromatosis contained slightly more iron overall than controls, including more ferritin and less mitochondrial iron; these differences typify slightly older hearts, perhaps reflecting the burden due to this disease. HFE -/- livers were overloaded with ferritin but had low mitochondrial iron levels. IRP2 -/- hearts contained less ferritin than controls but normal levels of mitochondrial iron. Hearts of young mice born to an iron-deficient mother contained normal levels of mitochondrial iron and no ferritin; the heart from the mother contained low ferritin and normal levels of mitochondrial iron. High-spin Fe II ions were nearly undetectable in heart samples; these were evident in brains, livers, and human cells. Previous Mössbauer spectra of unenriched diseased human hearts lacked mitochondrial and blood doublets and included hemosiderin features. This suggests degradation of iron-containing species during sample preparation. © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Decreased interleukin-7 and transforming growth factor-beta1 levels in blister fluids as compared to the respective serum levels in patients with bullous pemphigoid. Opposite behavior of TNF-alpha, interleukin-4 and interleukin-10.

PubMed

Giacalone, B; D'Auria, L; Bonifati, C; Ferraro, C; Riccardi, E; Mussi, A; D'Agosto, G; Cordiali-Fei, P; Ameglio, F

1998-08-01

This study analyzes both the blister fluid (BF) and serum levels of IL-7 and TGF-beta1 in samples from 18 patients affected with bullous pemphigoid (BP). These cytokines clearly present lower concentrations (P<0.001) in BFs than in the sera (1/20 and 1/2, respectively). In contrast, TNF-alpha, IL-10 and IL-4 present increased amounts in BFs that were 12, 12 and 17-fold, respectively. Eighteen sera (and 10 suction BF) from normal individuals were also employed as control. Normal sera presented significantly lower serum IL-7 concentrations than BP, while no significant TGF-beta1 variations were observed between normal and pathologic serum samples. In addition, the serum levels detected in BP patients were significantly correlated with disease intensity (r=0.64, P=0.003, evaluated as the number of blisters/erosions for each patient) as well as with the peripheral B-lymphocyte counts (r=0.80, P<0.001) and antibodies directed against the basement membrane zone (r=0.65, P<0.005). Although a clear explanation of this phenomenon is lacking, the data presented in this report agree with a strong decrease of IL-7 production at the local level (keratinocyte is known to produce IL-7 and the latter is known to be down-regulated by IL-10, and in other models also by TGF-beta1 and IL-4, whose levels are elevated in BP BFs) as opposed to an increased peripheral release of the same modulator. The IL-7 reduction may have a biological relevance in controlling a chronic, progressive disease.

Normal T-cell activation in elite controllers with preserved CD4+ T-cell counts.

PubMed

Bansal, Anju; Sterrett, Sarah; Erdmann, Nathan; Westfall, Andrew O; Dionne-Odom, Jodie; Overton, Edgar T; Goepfert, Paul A

2015-11-01

HIV elite controllers suppress HIV viremia without antiretroviral therapy (ART), yet previous studies demonstrated that elite controllers maintain an activated T-cell phenotype. Chronic immune activation has detrimental consequences and thus ART has been advocated for all elite controllers. However, elite controllers are not a clinically homogenous group. Since CD4% is among the best predictors of AIDS-related events, in the current study, we assessed whether this marker can be used to stratify elite controllers needing ART. Sixteen elite controllers were divided into two groups based on CD4% (EC > 40% and EC ≤40%), and T-cell subsets were analyzed for markers of memory/differentiation (CD45RA, CCR7, CD28), activation (CD38/HLA-DR), immunosenescence (CD57), costimulation (CD73, CD28) and exhaustion (PD-1, CD160, Tim-3). Monocyte subsets (CD14, CD16) were also analyzed and sCD14 levels were quantified using ELISA. In the EC group, expression of activation, exhaustion, and immunosensescence markers on T cells were significantly reduced compared with the EC group and similar to the seronegative controls. The EC group expressed higher levels of costimulatory molecules CD28 and CD73 and had lower levels of monocyte activation (HLA-DR expression) with a reduced frequency of inflammatory monocyte (CD14 CD16) subset. Furthermore, the EC group maintained a stable CD4% during a median follow-up of 6 years. Elite controllers with preserved CD4T cells (EC) have normal T-cell and monocyte phenotypes and therefore may have limited benefit from ART. CD4% can be an important marker for evaluating future studies aimed at determining the need for ART in this group of individuals.

[Antibodies against TSH receptors (TRAb) as indicators in prognosing the effectiveness of Tiamazol therapy for Grave's Disease].

PubMed

Bojarska-Szmygin, Anna; Ciechanek, Roman

2003-01-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of TRAb determinations in prognosing and monitoring the efficacy of conservative treatment in Graves' disease. The examinations were performed in 54 patients. During the 18-month observation all the patients were treated with Tiamazol. The control group consisted of 20 healthy volunteers. The TRAb levels were determined before as well as 12 and 18 months after thyrostatic treatment. Simultaneously, the levels of TSH and FT4 were analysed. Moreover, all the patients underwent ultrasound examinations to assess the size of the thyroid gland. The findings of the 18-month follow up showed that in 31 patients (57%) the thyroid function became normal (group I--euthyreosis), in 23 patients (43%) hyperactivity persisted (group II--hyperthyreosis). The TRAb levels were analysed in both groups of patients. An increased initial level of TRAb was found in the hyperactivity group mean -54.39 + 31.21 U/l which was statistically significantly different from the TRAb levels in the euthyreosis group mean -29.13 +/- 19.14 U/l and in controls mean -2.75 +/- 2.06 U/l (p < 0.001 for both parameters). After 12-month treatment increased values of antibodies were still observed in this group of patients (mean -39.96 +/- 33.40 U/l) in comparison with the euthyreosis group (mean -9.87 +/- 8.33 U/l) and controls (mean -2.75 +/- 2.06 U/l) (p < 0.001 for both parameters). After 18-month treatment the TRAb levels in group II remained increased (mean -40.17 +/- 33.06) while in group I normal levels were achieved. The sizes of the thyroid gland were compared between the individual groups. In the hyperactivity group after 18-month treatment, the thyroid size was the biggest (mean -41.09 +/- 13.94 ml) and was statistically significantly different when compared to the average size in the euthyreosis group mean -31.65 +/- 11.74 ml (p < 0.01) and in controls mean -14.45 +/- 2.37 ml (p < 0.001). The levels of antibodies against TSH receptors are useful parameters in prognosis and monitoring the treatment effectiveness in Graves' disease. High initial levels of antibodies are the poor prognostic factors. The TRAb determinations are of some prognostic value not only before but also 12 months since the onset of therapy. The lack of antibody level normalization during treatment is connected with persisting hyperactivity. The TRAb concentration correlates with the thyroid size.

Hyperghrelinemia in Prader-Willi Syndrome Begins in Early Infancy Long Before the Onset of Hyperphagia

PubMed Central

Kweh, Frederick A.; Miller, Jennifer L.; Sulsona, Carlos R; Wasserfall, Clive; Atkinson, Mark; Shuster, Jonathan J.; Goldstone, Anthony P.; Driscoll, Daniel J.

2015-01-01

Circulating total ghrelin levels are elevated in older children and adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). However, the presence or absence of hyperghrelinemia in young children with PWS remains controversial. We hypothesized that a more robust way to analyze appetite-regulating hormones in PWS would be by nutritional phases rather than age alone. Our objectives were to compare total serum ghrelin levels in children with PWS by nutritional phase as well as to compare total ghrelin levels in PWS (5 weeks to 21 years of age) to normal weight controls and individuals with early-onset morbid obesity (EMO) without PWS. Fasting serum total ghrelin levels were measured in 60 subjects with PWS, 39 subjects with EMO of unknown etiology, and in 95 normal non-obese sibling controls of PWS or EMO subjects (SibC) in this 12 year longitudinal study. Within PWS, total ghrelin levels were significantly (P<0.001) higher in earlier nutritional phases: phase 1a (7,906 ± 5,887); 1b (5,057 ± 2,624); 2a (2,905 ± 1,521); 2b (2,615 ± 1,370) and 3 (2,423 ± 1,350). Young infants with PWS also had significantly (P=0.009) higher total ghrelin levels than did the sibling controls. Nutritional phase is an important independent prognostic factor of total ghrelin levels in individuals with PWS. Circulating ghrelin levels are elevated in young children with PWS long before the onset of hyperphagia, especially during the early phase of poor appetite and feeding. Therefore, it seems unlikely that high ghrelin levels are directly responsible for the switch to the hyperphagic nutritional phases in PWS. PMID:25355237

Hyperghrelinemia in Prader-Willi syndrome begins in early infancy long before the onset of hyperphagia.

PubMed

Kweh, Frederick A; Miller, Jennifer L; Sulsona, Carlos R; Wasserfall, Clive; Atkinson, Mark; Shuster, Jonathan J; Goldstone, Anthony P; Driscoll, Daniel J

2015-01-01

Circulating total ghrelin levels are elevated in older children and adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). However, the presence or absence of hyperghrelinemia in young children with PWS remains controversial. We hypothesized that a more robust way to analyze appetite-regulating hormones in PWS would be by nutritional phases rather than age alone. Our objectives were to compare total serum ghrelin levels in children with PWS by nutritional phase as well as to compare total ghrelin levels in PWS (5 weeks to 21 years of age) to normal weight controls and individuals with early-onset morbid obesity (EMO) without PWS. Fasting serum total ghrelin levels were measured in 60 subjects with PWS, 39 subjects with EMO of unknown etiology, and in 95 normal non-obese sibling controls of PWS or EMO subjects (SibC) in this 12 year longitudinal study. Within PWS, total ghrelin levels were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in earlier nutritional phases: phase 1a (7,906  ±  5,887); 1b (5,057 ± 2,624); 2a (2,905 ± 1,521); 2b (2,615 ± 1,370) and 3 (2,423 ± 1,350). Young infants with PWS also had significantly (P = 0.009) higher total ghrelin levels than did the sibling controls. Nutritional phase is an important independent prognostic factor of total ghrelin levels in individuals with PWS. Circulating ghrelin levels are elevated in young children with PWS long before the onset of hyperphagia, especially during the early phase of poor appetite and feeding. Therefore, it seems unlikely that high ghrelin levels are directly responsible for the switch to the hyperphagic nutritional phases in PWS. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Gene expression of regulatory enzymes of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in regenerating rat liver.

PubMed Central

Rosa, J L; Bartrons, R; Tauler, A

1992-01-01

Levels of mRNA for glucokinase, L-pyruvate kinase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase were analysed during liver regeneration. Levels of mRNA for glycolytic enzymes (glucokinase and L-pyruvate kinase) decreased rapidly after partial hepatectomy. Glucokinase mRNA increased at 16-24 h, returning to normal values after this time. L-pyruvate kinase mRNA recovered control levels at 168 h. In contrast, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA increased rapidly after liver resection and remained high during the regenerative process. However, the levels of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase mRNA were not modified significantly. These results correlate with the reported increased rate of gluconeogenesis and changes in enzyme levels after partial hepatectomy. The effect of stress on the mRNA levels was also studied. All enzymes showed variations in their mRNA levels after the surgical stress. In general, the differences were more pronounced in regenerating liver than in sham-operated animals, being practically normalized at 24 h. Images Fig. 2. Fig. 3. PMID:1329724

Relative expression of rRNA transcripts and 45S rDNA promoter methylation status are dysregulated in tumors in comparison with matched-normal tissues in breast cancer.

PubMed

Karahan, Gurbet; Sayar, Nilufer; Gozum, Gokcen; Bozkurt, Betul; Konu, Ozlen; Yulug, Isik G

2015-06-01

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) expression, one of the most important factors regulating ribosome production, is primarily controlled by a CG-rich 45 S rDNA promoter. However, the DNA methylation state of the 45 S rDNA promoter, as well as its effect on rRNA gene expression in types of human cancers is controversial. In the present study we analyzed the methylation status of the rDNA promoter (-380 to +53 bp) as well as associated rRNA expression levels in breast cancer cell lines and breast tumor-normal tissue pairs. We found that the aforementioned regulatory region was extensively methylated (74-96%) in all cell lines and in 68% (13/19 tumor-normal pairs) of the tumors. Expression levels of rRNA transcripts 18 S, 28 S, 5.8 S and 45 S external transcribed spacer (45 S ETS) greatly varied in the breast cancer cell lines regardless of their methylation status. Analyses of rRNA transcript expression levels in the breast tumor and normal matched tissues showed no significant difference when normalized with TBP. On the other hand, using the geometric mean of the rRNA expression values (GM-rRNA) as reference enabled us to identify significant changes in the relative expression of rRNAs in the tissue samples. We propose GM-rRNA normalization as a novel strategy to analyze expression differences between rRNA transcripts. Accordingly, the 18S rRNA/GM-rRNA ratio was significantly higher whereas the 5.8S rRNA/GM-rRNA ratio was significantly lower in breast tumor samples than this ratio in the matched normal samples. Moreover, the 18S rRNA/GM-rRNA ratio was negatively correlated with the 45 S rDNA promoter methylation level in the normal breast tissue samples, yet not in the breast tumors. Significant correlations observed between the expression levels of rRNA transcripts in the normal samples were lost in the tumor samples. We showed that the expression of rRNA transcripts may not be based solely on promoter methylation. Carcinogenesis may cause dysregulation of the correlation between spliced rRNA expression levels, possibly due to changes in rRNA processing, which requires further investigation.

In defense of the classical height system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foroughi, Ismael; Vaníček, Petr; Sheng, Michael; Kingdon, Robert William; Santos, Marcelo C.

2017-11-01

In many European countries, normal heights referred to the quasi-geoid as introduced by Molodenskij in the mid-20th century are preferred to the classical height system that consists of orthometric heights and the geoid as a reference surface for these heights. The rationale for this choice is supposed to be that in the classical height system, neither the geoid, nor the orthometric height can be ever known with centimetre level accuracy because one would need to know the topographical mass density to a level that can never be achieved. The aim of this paper is to question the validity of this rationale. The common way of assessing the congruency of a local geoid model and the orthometric heights is to compare the geoid heights with the difference between orthometric heights provided by leveling and geodetic heights provided by GNSS. On the other hand, testing the congruency of a quasi-geoidal model with normal height a similar procedure is used, except that instead of orthometric heights, normal heights are employed. For the area of Auvergne, France, which is now a more or less standard choice for precise geoid or quasi-geoid testing, only the normal heights are supplied by the Institute Geographic National, the provider of the data. This is clearly the consequence of the European preference for the Molodenskij system. The quality of the height system is to be judged by the congruency of the difference of the geoid/quasi-geoid heights subtracted from the geodetic heights and orthometric/normal heights. To assess the congruency of the classical height system, the Helmert approximation of orthometric heights is typically used as the transformation between normal and Helmert's heights is easily done. However, the evaluation of the differences between Helmert's and the rigorous orthometric heights is somewhat more involved as will be seen from the review in this paper. For the area of interest, the differences between normal and Helmert's heights at the control leveling points range between - 9.5 and 0 cm, differences between Helmert's and the rigorous orthometric heights vary between - 3.6 and 1.1 cm. The local gravimetric geoid model of Auvergne, computed by the Stokes-Helmert technique, is used here to illustrate the accuracy of the classical height system. Results show a very reasonable standard deviation (STD) of 3.2 cm of the differences between geoid values, derived from control leveling points, and gravimetric geoid heights when Helmert's heights are employed and even a smaller STD of 2.9 cm when rigorous orthometric heights are used. A corresponding comparison of a quasi-geoid model, computed by Least-Squares Modification of Stokes method, with normal heights show an STD of 3.4 cm.

Type 2 Diabetes and Spina Bifida

MedlinePlus

... c-peptide; and fasting lipid panel. • Hemoglobin A1C test which indicates the body’s long term control of blood sugar Hemoglobin Levels Normal = less than 5.7% Pre-Diabetes = 5.7% – 6.4% Diabetes = 6.5% ...

Effects of gene knockdown of CNP on ventricular remodeling after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury through NPRB/Cgmp signaling pathway in rats.

PubMed

Wu, Lian-He; Zhang, Qi; Zhang, Shen; Meng, Lu-Yu; Wang, Yan-Chi; Sheng, Cun-Jian

2018-02-01

This study aimed to explore effects of CNP on ventricular remodeling following myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury through the NPRB/cGMP signaling pathway. Rat cardiomyocytes were assigned into: control, I/R, I/R + CNP, and I/R + 8-Br-cGMP groups. ELISA, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting were used to detect cGMP content and expression, respectively. After model establishment of I/R rats, normal control, CNP -/- control, I/R, and CNP -/- groups were set. Indexes of heart were detected using echocardiography and hemodynamics. ELISA was used to measure serum CNP, cGMP, LDH, cTn I, CK-MB, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels. Myocardial infarct was identified by TTC staining, and apoptosis conditions by TUNEL staining. QRT-PCR and Western blotting were adopted to detect expressions of CNP, NPRB, cGMP, and apoptosis-related genes. Compared with control group, cGMP contents and expression in the I/R, I/R + CNP and I/R + 8-Br-cGMP groups were decreased. Levels of LVEDV, LVESV, LVDS, LVDD, IVSD, LVM, LVEDP, and LVSP were higher in the I/R, CNP -/- control, and CNP -/- groups than normal control group while LVEF, SV, CO, and ±dp/dtmax were lower. Compared with the normal control group, LDH, cTn I, CK-MB, TNF-α, and IL-6 were higher in the I/R, CNP -/- control and CNP -/- groups; pathological changes and myocardial infarction were observed in the I/R, CNP -/- control, and CNP -/- groups; expressions of apoptosis-related genes in those groups were higher; while CNP, NPRB, cGMP, and Bcl-2 expressions were decreased. We came to the conclusion that gene knockdown of CNP blocks the NPRB/cGMP signaling pathway, thereby aggravating myocardial I/R injury and causing ventricular remodeling in rats. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Late effect of subtotal thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine therapy on calcitonin secretion and bone mineral density in women treated for Graves' disease

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lowery, W.D.; Thomas, C.G. Jr.; Awbrey, B.J.

1986-12-01

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of subtotal thyroidectomy and/or radioactive iodine therapy on plasma immunocalcitonin (iCT) levels and bone densities in patients treated for Graves' disease. Forty-eight women whose ages ranged from 29 to 79 years (mean, 55 years) were evaluated. All were at least 10 years beyond treatment. Fourteen patients had undergone subtotal thyroidectomy, 22 had received radioactive iodine therapy, and 12 had received both. Serum calcitonin levels were measured with the patient fasting and at 30 minutes and 2 hours after the ingestion of 15 mg of calcium in orange juice. Single photon absorptiometry wasmore » used to measure bone mineral density of the middle and distal radius. The mean fasting plasma levels of iCT for patients undergoing subtotal thyroidectomy was 27 +/- 2 mumol/L; women treated with radioactive iodine, 26 +/- 2; women undergoing subtotal thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine, 24 +/- 2, and for normal control women, 48.5 +/- 4.7. The mean stimulated iCT level of each of the patient groups was significantly lower than that of the normal controls (p = 0.01). There were no significant differences among the groups. Although there was an increased loss of bone mineral density in postmenopausal patients, with age and race as covariates, the bone densities of the distal radius in women undergoing subtotal thyroidectomy and/or receiving radioactive iodine were not significantly lower than those of normal control subjects (p greater than 0.05). These findings are consistent with other observations that patients treated by thyroidectomy and/or radioactive iodine for Graves' disease have lower basal levels of calcitonin and decreased calcitonin response to a provocative stimulus. Whether this loss of calcitonin reserve is a significant factor in development of postmenopausal osteoporosis remains unanswered.« less

Analyses of risk factors for polycystic ovary syndrome complicated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

PubMed

Zhang, Jianhai; Hu, Jian; Zhang, Chunxia; Jiao, Yanni; Kong, Xiang; Wang, Wei

2018-05-01

The risk factors related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients complicated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were investigated. A total of 188 PCOS patients treated in Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital (Dongying, China) from February 2014 to February 2015 were retrospectively analyzed as PCOS group, and PCOS group was further divided into NAFLD group and non-NAFLD (N-NAFLD) group according to the liver B ultrasound. In the same time-period, 65 healthy people were selected as normal control group. The differences of clinical, biochemical and metabolic indexes were compared. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T), free androgen index (FAI), fasting insulin (FINS) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index in PCOS group were higher than those in normal control group, but the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) level was lower than that in normal control group (P<0.05); there were no statistically significant differences in comparisons of age, body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), FSH, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAs) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) between the two groups (P>0.05). The prevalence rate of NAFLD in PCOS group (44.68%) was significantly higher than that in control group (24.62%) (P<0.05). The proportion of NAFLD in PCOS patients in obesity group (63.51%) was significantly higher than that in non-obesity group (15.79%) (P<0.05). In PCOS group, NAFLD patients had more obvious metabolic abnormalities [high BMI, WHR, FBG, FINS, HOMA-IR index, total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG), and low high-density lipoprotein HDL and SHBG] and androgen excess compared with those in N-NAFLD patients (P<0.05). The levels of LH, LH/FSH, FINS and HOMA-IR index in PCOS group complicated with NAFLD were higher than those in control group complicated with NAFLD (P<0.05), but the differences in age, BMI, WHR, FSH and FBG levels were not statistically significant between the two groups (P>0.05). HOMA-IR index, BMI, WHR and TG were independent risk factors for PCOS complicated with NAFLD (P<0.05).

Differential Expression of c-fos Proto-Oncogene in Normal Oral Mucosa versus Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Krishna, Akhilesh; Bhatt, Madan Lal Brahma; Singh, Vineeta; Singh, Shraddha; Gangwar, Pravin Kumar; Singh, Uma Shankar; Kumar, Vijay; Mehrotra, Divya

2018-01-01

Background: The c-Fos nuclear protein dimerizes with Jun family proteins to form the transcription factor AP-1 complex which participates in signal transduction and regulation of normal cellular processes. In tumorigenesis, c-Fos promotes invasive growth through down-regulation of tumor suppressor genes but its role in oral carcinogenesis is not clear. Objectives: This study concerned c-fos gene expression in normal and malignant tissues of the oral cavity, with attention to associations between expression status and clinico-pathological profiles of OSCC patients. Method: A total of 65 histopathologically confirmed OSCC tissue samples were included in case group along with an equal number of age and sex-matched normal tissue samples of oral cavity for the control group. c-Fos protein and m-RNA expressions were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR, respectively. Results: A significant low expression of c-Fos protein was observed in OSCC cases than normal control subjects (p= <0.001). The mean percent positivity of c-Fos protein in cases vs. controls was 24.91± 2.7 vs. 49.68± 2.2 (p= <0.001). Most OSCC tissue samples showed weak or moderate c-Fos expression whereas 53.8% of normal tissue sections presented with strong immunostaining. Moreover, the relative m-RNA expression for the c-fos gene was significantly decreased in case group (0.93± 0.48) as compared to the control group (1.22± 0.87). Majority of c-Fos positive cases were diagnosed with well developed tumor. The mean percent positivity of c-Fos protein was significantly lower in higher grade tumor as compared with normal oral mucosa (p= < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study suggested that the c-fos gene is downregulated in oral carcinomas. The disparity of c-Fos protein levels in different pathological grades of tumor and normal oral tissue samples may indicate that loss of c-Fos expression is related with the progression of OSCC. PMID:29582647

Neuroendocrine disruption in the shore crab Carcinus maenas: Effects of serotonin and fluoxetine on chh- and mih-gene expression, glycaemia and ecdysteroid levels.

PubMed

Robert, Alexandrine; Monsinjon, Tiphaine; Delbecque, Jean-Paul; Olivier, Stéphanie; Poret, Agnès; Foll, Frank Le; Durand, Fabrice; Knigge, Thomas

2016-06-01

Serotonin, a highly conserved neurotransmitter, controls many biological functions in vertebrates, but also in invertebrates. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, are commonly used in human medication to ease depression by affecting serotonin levels. Their residues and metabolites can be detected in the aquatic environment and its biota. They may also alter serotonin levels in aquatic invertebrates, thereby perturbing physiological functions. To investigate whether such perturbations can indeed be expected, shore crabs (Carcinus maenas) were injected either with serotonin, fluoxetine or a combination of both. Dose-dependent effects of fluoxetine ranging from 250 to 750nM were investigated. Gene expression of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (chh) as well as moult inhibiting hormone (mih) was assessed by RT-qPCR at 2h and 12h after injection. Glucose and ecdysteroid levels in the haemolymph were monitored in regular intervals until 12h. Serotonin led to a rapid increase of chh and mih expression. On the contrary, fluoxetine only affected chh and mih expression after several hours, but kept expression levels significantly elevated. Correspondingly, serotonin rapidly increased glycaemia, which returned to normal or below normal levels after 12h. Fluoxetine, however, resulted in a persistent low-level increase of glycaemia, notably during the period when negative feedback regulation reduced glycaemia in the serotonin treated animals. Ecdysteroid levels were significantly decreased by serotonin and fluoxetine, with the latter showing less pronounced and less rapid, but longer lasting effects. Impacts of fluoxetine on glycaemia and ecdysteroids were mostly observed at higher doses (500 and 750nM) and affected principally the response dynamics, but not the amplitude of glycaemia and ecdysteroid-levels. These results suggest that psychoactive drugs are able to disrupt neuroendocrine control in decapod crustaceans, as they interfere with the normal regulation of the serotonergic system. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Lessening effect of hypoxia-preconditioned rat cerebrospinal fluid on oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced injury of cultured hippocampal neurons in neonate rats and possible mechanism].

PubMed

Niu, Jing-Zhong; Zhang, Yan-Bo; Li, Mei-Yi; Liu, Li-Li

2011-12-25

The present study was to investigate the effect of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the rats with hypoxic preconditioning (HPC) on apoptosis of cultured hippocampal neurons in neonate rats under oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). Adult Wistar rats were exposed to 3 h of hypoxia for HPC, and then their CSF was taken out. Cultured hippocampal neurons from the neonate rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6): normal control group, OGD group, normal CSF group and HPC CSF group. OGD group received 1.5 h of incubation in glucose-free Earle's solution containing 1 mmol/L Na2S2O4, and normal and HPC CSF groups were subjected to 1 d of corresponding CSF treatments followed by 1.5 h OGD. The apoptosis of neurons was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscope and flow cytometry using Annexin V/PI double staining. Moreover, protein expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax were detected by immunofluorescence. The results showed that few apoptotic cells were observed in normal control group, whereas the number of apoptotic cells was greatly increased in OGD group. Both normal and HPC CSF could decrease the apoptosis of cultured hippocampal neurons injured by OGD (P < 0.01). Notably, the protective effect of HPC CSF was stronger than that of normal one (P < 0.01). Compared to OGD group, normal and HPC CSF groups both showed significantly higher levels of Bcl-2 (P < 0.01), and Bcl-2 expression level in HPC CSF group was even higher than that in normal CSF group (P < 0.01). Whereas the expressions of Bax in normal and HPC CSF groups were significantly lower than that in OGD group (P < 0.01), and the Bax expression in HPC CSF group was even lower than that in normal CSF group (P < 0.01). These results suggest that CSF from hypoxic-preconditioned rats could degrade apoptotic rate of OGD-injured hippocampal neurons by up-regulating expression of Bcl-2 and down-regulating expression of Bax.

[Analysis on content of serum monoamine neurotransmitters in macaques with anger-in-induced premenstrual syndrome and liver-qi depression syndrome].

PubMed

Wei, Sheng; Hou, Jin-Liang; Chao, Yu-Bin; Du, Xi-Yang; Zong, Shao-Bo

2012-08-01

To observe the changes in content of monoamine neurotransmitters in the serum of rhesus macaques, and explore the role of serum monoamine neurotransmitters in premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and liver-qi depression induced by anger-in emotion. Social level pressure was applied on 24 female macaques to induce the angry emotional reaction, and then nine of the low-status macaques with anger-in emotional reaction were screened out and were divided into anger-in emotion group, PMS and liver-qi depression group (model group) and Jingqianshu Granule group. Macaques in the last two groups were suffered extruding in a pack cage for inducing PMS liver-qi depression. After 5 d of extruding, experimental animals were evaluated according to the emotional evaluation scale, meanwhile, macaque serum of follicular phase and middle-late luteal phase was collected to analyze the content of serum norepinephrine, dopamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine. Compared with the normal control group, the scores of depression of the model group and the anger-in emotion group evaluated with emotional evaluation scale were significantly increased (P<0.01, P<0.05); while the score of the model group was significantly higher than that of the anger-in emotion group (P<0.05), and it returned to normal after Jingqianshu Granule treatment. As compared to the normal control group, serum monoamine neurotransmitter levels of the model group and the anger-in emotion group were increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), and the serum monoamine neurotransmitter levels of the model group were significantly higher than those of the anger-in emotion group (P<0.05), while there was no significant difference when compared with the normal control group after the treatment. Anger-in emotion can induce liver-qi depression syndrome which is related to the changes in monoamine neurotransmitters.

Plasma glycoprotein V levels in the general population: normal distribution, associated parameters and implications for clinical studies.

PubMed

Aleil, Boris; Meyer, Nicolas; Wolff, Valérie; Kientz, Daniel; Wiesel, Marie-Louise; Gachet, Christian; Cazenave, Jean-Pierre; Lanza, François

2006-10-01

Soluble glycoprotein V (sGPV) is a new plasma marker of thrombosis released from the platelet surface by thrombin. sGPV levels are increased in patients with atherothrombotic diseases, but the determinants of sGPV levels are unknown in the general population. Identification of these potential confounding factors is needed for correct design and analysis of clinical studies on cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the normal range of plasma values and the factors controlling sGPV levels in a population of normal individuals. Three hundred blood donors were recruited at the Etablissement Français du Sang-Alsace for the measurement of plasma levels of sGPV, platelet factor 4 (PF4), thrombin-antithrombin complexes (TAT) and D-dimers. The plasma level of sGPV was (median [interquartile range]) 27.5 [23.5-34.4] microg/l and displayed a Gaussian distribution. sGPV had a lower interindividual coefficient of variation (33%) than PF4 (176%), TAT (87%) or D-dimers (82%). sGPV levels were independent of age and sex but sensitive to red cell (r = 0.412; p < 0.0001) and platelet counts (r = 0.267; p = 0.001), total cholesterol (r = -0.313; p < 0.0001), food intake (r = 0.184; p = 0.0014) and smoking (r = -0.154; p = 0.039). Contrary to PF4 and TAT, sGPV did not differ between venous and arterial blood samples of 12 healthy individuals. Red cell and platelet counts, total cholesterol, current smoking and recent food intake are important determinants of sGPV levels and must be taken into account in clinical studies using sGPV as a thrombosis marker. Normal distribution of sGPV levels in the general population supports its use in clinical applications.

Normal-range verbal-declarative memory in schizophrenia.

PubMed

Heinrichs, R Walter; Parlar, Melissa; Pinnock, Farena

2017-10-01

Cognitive impairment is prevalent and related to functional outcome in schizophrenia, but a significant minority of the patient population overlaps with healthy controls on many performance measures, including declarative-verbal-memory tasks. In this study, we assessed the validity, clinical, and functional implications of normal-range (NR), verbal-declarative memory in schizophrenia. Performance normality was defined using normative data for 8 basic California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II; Delis, Kramer, Kaplan, & Ober, 2000) recall and recognition trials. Schizophrenia patients (n = 155) and healthy control participants (n = 74) were assessed for performance normality, defined as scores within 1 SD of the normative mean on all 8 trials, and assigned to normal- and below-NR memory groups. NR schizophrenia patients (n = 26) and control participants (n = 51) did not differ in general verbal ability, on a reading-based estimate of premorbid ability, across all 8 CVLT-II-score comparisons or in terms of intrusion and false-positive errors and auditory working memory. NR memory patients did not differ from memory-impaired patients (n = 129) in symptom severity, and both patient groups were significantly and similarly disabled in terms of functional status in the community. These results confirm a subpopulation of schizophrenia patients with normal, verbal-declarative-memory performance and no evidence of decline from higher premorbid ability levels. However, NR patients did not experience less severe psychopathology, nor did they show advantage in community adjustment relative to impaired patients. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Insight into mechanism of oxidative DNA damage in angiomyolipomas from TSC patients

PubMed Central

Habib, Samy L

2009-01-01

Background The tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is caused by defects in one of two tumor suppressor genes, TSC-1 or TSC-2. TSC-2 gene encodes tuberin, a protein involved in the pathogenesis of kidney tumors, both angiomyolipomas and renal cell carcinomas. Loss of heterozygosity at the 8-oxoG-DNA glycosylase (OGG1) allele is found in human kidney clear cell carcinoma identifying loss of OGG1 function as a possible contributor to tumorigenesis in the kidney. Tuberin regulates OGG1 through the transcription factor NF-YA in cultured cells. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of tuberin-deficiency on OGG1 protein and mRNA levels as well as on 8-oxodG levels in kidney tumors from patients with TSC. In addition we evaluated the phophorylation level of downstream targets of mTOR, phospho-S70K, in kidney tumor tissue from TSC patients. Results Kidney angiomyolipoma tissue from TSC patients expresses significant levels of phopho-tuberin and low levels of tuberin compared to control kidney tissue. The increase in tuberin phosphorylation and the decrease tuberin expression are associated with decrease in OGG1 protein and mRNA levels in tumor samples compared to normal kidney samples. The decrease OGG1 expression is also associated with significant decrease in the transcription factor, NF-YA, expression in tumor samples compared to normal tissues. In addition, the levels of 8-oxodG are 4-fold higher in tumors compared to control samples. The significant increase of phospho-tuberin expression is associated with increase phosphorylation of S6K in tumor samples compared to controls. Cyclin D1 expression is also 3-fold higher in increase in the tumor tissues compared to normal kidney tissues. Conclusion These data indicate that tuberin deficiency in angiomyolipoma enhances mTOR activation by phosphorylation of S6K and downregulation of protein and mRNA expression of OGG1 resulted in accumulation of oxidized DNA in patients with TSC. These data suggest that tuberin and OGG1 are important proteins in the pathogenesis of angiomyolipoma in TSC patients. PMID:19265534

Diurnal glycemic profile in obese and normal weight nondiabetic pregnant women.

PubMed

Yogev, Yariv; Ben-Haroush, Avi; Chen, Rony; Rosenn, Barak; Hod, Moshe; Langer, Oded

2004-09-01

A paucity of data exists concerning the normal glycemic profile in nondiabetic pregnancies. Using a novel approach that provides continuous measurement of blood glucose, we sought to evaluate the ambulatory daily glycemic profile in the second half of pregnancy in nondiabetic women. Fifty-seven obese and normal weight nondiabetic subjects were evaluated for 72 consecutive hours with continuous glucose monitoring by measurement interstitial glucose levels in subcutaneous tissue every 5 minutes. Subjects were instructed not to modify their lifestyle or to follow any dietary restriction. For each woman, mean and fasting blood glucose values were determined; for each meal during the study period, the first 180 minutes were analyzed. For the study group, the fasting blood glucose level was 75 +/- 12 mg/dL; the mean blood glucose level was 83.7 +/- 18 mg/dL; the postprandial peak glucose value level was 110 +/- 16 mg/dL, and the time interval that was needed to reach peak postprandial glucose level was 70 +/- 13 minutes. A similar postprandial glycemic profile was obtained for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Obese women were characterized by a significantly higher postprandial glucose peak value, increased 1- and 2-hour postprandial glucose levels, increased time interval for glucose peak, and significantly lower mean blood glucose during the night. No difference was found in fasting and mean blood glucose between obese and nonobese subjects. Glycemic profile characterization in both obese and normal weight nondiabetic subjects provide a measure for the desired level of glycemic control in pregnancy that is complicated with diabetes mellitus.

Mitotane treatment in patients with adrenocortical cancer causes central hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Russo, Marco; Scollo, Claudia; Pellegriti, Gabriella; Cotta, Oana Ruxandra; Squatrito, Sebastiano; Frasca, Francesco; Cannavò, Salvatore; Gullo, Damiano

2016-04-01

Mitotane, a steroidogenesis inhibitor with adrenolytic properties used to treat adrenocortical cancer (ACC), can affect thyroid function. A reduction of FT4 levels with normal FT3 and TSH has been described in these patients. Using an in vitro murine model, the secretory capacity of thyrotrophic cells has been shown to be inhibited by mitotane. To investigate the pathogenesis of thyroid abnormalities in mitotane-treated patients with ACC. In five female patients with ACC (median age 47; range 31-65) treated with mitotane (dosage 1·5 g/day; 1·0-3·0), we analysed the pattern of TSH and thyroid function index (FT4, FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio) compared to an age- and gender-matched control group. The in vivo secretory activity of the thyrotrophic cells was evaluated using a standard TRH test (200 μg), and the response was compared to both a group of age-matched female controls (n = 10) and central hypothyroid patients (n = 10). Basal TSH (median 1·54 mU/l; range 1·20-2·17) was normal and scattered around our median reference value, FT3 levels (median 3·80 pmol/l; 3·30-4·29) were normal but below the median reference value of 4·37 pmol/l and FT4 levels were below the normal range in all patients (median 8·40 pmol/l; 7·6-9·9). FT3/FT4 ratio was in the upper range in 4 patients and higher than normal in one patient. A blunted TSH response to TRH was observed in mitotane-treated patients. ΔTSH (absolute TSH response, peak TSH minus basal TSH) was 3·65 (range 3·53-5·26), 12·37 (range 7·55-19·97) and 1·32 mU/l (range 0·52-4·66) in mitotane-treated patients, controls and central hypothyroid patients, respectively. PRL secretion was normal. Mitotane-treated patients with ACC showed low FT4, normal FT3 and TSH and impaired TSH response to TRH, characteristic of central hypothyroidism. Furthermore, the elevated FT3/FT4 ratio of these subjects reflects an enhanced T4 to T3 conversion rate, a compensatory mechanism characteristic of thyroid function changes observed in hypothyroid conditions. This finding thus confirms in vitro studies and may have a therapeutic implication for treatment with thyroid hormones, as suggested by current guidelines for this specific condition. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Skeletal muscle mass and exercise performance in stable ambulatory patients with heart failure.

PubMed

Lang, C C; Chomsky, D B; Rayos, G; Yeoh, T K; Wilson, J R

1997-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether skeletal muscle atrophy limits the maximal exercise capacity of stable ambulatory patients with heart failure. Body composition and maximal exercise capacity were measured in 100 stable ambulatory patients with heart failure. Body composition was assessed by using dual-energy X-ray absorption. Peak exercise oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and the anaerobic threshold were measured by using a Naughton treadmill protocol and a Medical Graphics CardioO2 System. VO2peak averaged 13.4 +/- 3.3 ml.min-1.kg-1 or 43 +/- 12% of normal. Lean body mass averaged 52.9 +/- 10.5 kg and leg lean mass 16.5 +/- 3.6 kg. Leg lean mass correlated linearly with VO2peak (r = 0.68, P < 0.01), suggesting that exercise performance is influences by skeletal muscle mass. However, lean body mass was comparable to levels noted in 1,584 normal control subjects, suggesting no decrease in muscle mass. Leg muscle mass was comparable to levels noted in 34 normal control subjects, further supporting this conclusion. These findings suggest that exercise intolerance in stable ambulatory patients with heart failure is not due to skeletal muscle atrophy.

Cervical cerclage placement decreases local levels of proinflammatory cytokines in patients with cervical insufficiency.

PubMed

Monsanto, Stephany P; Daher, Silvia; Ono, Erika; Pendeloski, Karen Priscilla Tezotto; Trainá, Évelyn; Mattar, Rosiane; Tayade, Chandrakant

2017-10-01

Cervical insufficiency is characterized by premature, progressive dilation and shortening of the cervix during pregnancy. If left unattended, this can lead to the prolapse and rupture of the amniotic membrane, which usually results in midtrimester pregnancy loss or preterm birth. Previous studies have shown that proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and tumor necrosis factor alpha are up-regulated in normal parturition but are also associated with preterm birth. Studies evaluating such markers in patients with cervical insufficiency have evaluated only their diagnostic potential. Even fewer studies have studied them within the context of cerclage surgery. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of local and systemic inflammatory markers on the pathogenesis of cervical insufficiency and the effect of cerclage surgery on the local immune microenvironment of women with cervical insufficiency. We recruited 28 pregnant women (12-20 weeks' gestation) diagnosed with insufficiency and referred for cerclage surgery and 19 gestational age-matched normal pregnant women as controls. Serum and cervicovaginal fluid samples were collected before and after cerclage surgery and during a routine checkup for normal women and analyzed using a targeted 13-plex proinflammatory cytokine assay. Before surgery, patients with cervical insufficiency had higher levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-12, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and tumor necrosis factor alpha in cervicovaginal fluid compared to controls, but after surgery, these differences disappeared. No differences were found in serum of insufficiency versus control women. In patients with insufficiency, the levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and interferon gamma in cervicovaginal fluid declined significantly after cerclage compared with before intervention, but these changes were not detected in serum. Compared with normal women, patients with cervical insufficiency have elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines in cervicovaginal fluid but not in serum, suggesting a dysregulation of the local immune environment. Cerclage intervention led to a significant decline in these proinflammatory cytokines, suggesting that cerclage may help reduce local inflammation in cervical insufficiency. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Power inverter implementing phase skipping control

DOEpatents

Somani, Utsav; Amirahmadi, Ahmadreza; Jourdan, Charles; Batarseh, Issa

2016-10-18

A power inverter includes a DC/AC inverter having first, second and third phase circuitry coupled to receive power from a power source. A controller is coupled to a driver for each of the first, second and third phase circuitry (control input drivers). The controller includes an associated memory storing a phase skipping control algorithm, wherein the controller is coupled to receive updating information including a power level generated by the power source. The drivers are coupled to control inputs of the first, second and third phase circuitry, where the drivers are configured for receiving phase skipping control signals from the controller and outputting mode selection signals configured to dynamically select an operating mode for the DC/AC inverter from a Normal Control operation and a Phase Skipping Control operation which have different power injection patterns through the first, second and third phase circuitry depending upon the power level.

Compensating for Language Deficits in Amnesia I: H.M.'s Spared Retrieval Categories.

PubMed

MacKay, Donald G; Johnson, Laura W; Fazel, Vedad; James, Lori E

2013-03-14

Three studies examined amnesic H.M.'s use of words, phrases, and propositions on the Test of Language Competence (TLC). In Study 1, H.M. used 19 lexical categories (e.g., common nouns, verbs) and one syntactic category (noun phrases) with the same relative frequency as memory-normal controls, he used no lexical or syntactic category with less-than-normal frequency, and he used proper names (e.g., Melanie) and coordinative conjunctions (e.g., and) with reliably greater-than-normal frequency. In Study 2, H.M. overused proper names relative to controls when answering episodic memory questions about childhood experiences in speech and writing, replicating and extending Study 1 results for proper names. Based on detailed analyses of the use (and misuse) of coordinating conjunctions on the TLC, Study 3 developed a syntax-level "compensation hypothesis" for explaining why H.M. overused coordinating conjunctions relative to controls in Study 1. Present results suggested that (a) frontal mechanisms for retrieving word-, phrase-, and propositional-categories are intact in H.M., unlike in category-specific aphasia, (b) using his intact retrieval mechanisms, H.M. has developed a never-previously-observed proposition-level free association strategy to compensate for the hippocampal region damage that has impaired his mechanisms for encoding novel linguistic structures, and (c) H.M.'s overuse of proper names warrants further research.

Compensating for Language Deficits in Amnesia I: H.M.’s Spared Retrieval Categories

PubMed Central

MacKay, Donald G.; Johnson, Laura W.; Fazel, Vedad; James, Lori E.

2013-01-01

Three studies examined amnesic H.M.’s use of words, phrases, and propositions on the Test of Language Competence (TLC). In Study 1, H.M. used 19 lexical categories (e.g., common nouns, verbs) and one syntactic category (noun phrases) with the same relative frequency as memory-normal controls, he used no lexical or syntactic category with less-than-normal frequency, and he used proper names (e.g., Melanie) and coordinative conjunctions (e.g., and) with reliably greater-than-normal frequency. In Study 2, H.M. overused proper names relative to controls when answering episodic memory questions about childhood experiences in speech and writing, replicating and extending Study 1 results for proper names. Based on detailed analyses of the use (and misuse) of coordinating conjunctions on the TLC, Study 3 developed a syntax-level “compensation hypothesis” for explaining why H.M. overused coordinating conjunctions relative to controls in Study 1. Present results suggested that (a) frontal mechanisms for retrieving word-, phrase-, and propositional-categories are intact in H.M., unlike in category-specific aphasia, (b) using his intact retrieval mechanisms, H.M. has developed a never-previously-observed proposition-level free association strategy to compensate for the hippocampal region damage that has impaired his mechanisms for encoding novel linguistic structures, and (c) H.M.’s overuse of proper names warrants further research. PMID:24961315

[Effect of Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation on immune function in mice].

PubMed

Liu, Cheng-song; Wang, Yu-ping; Shi, Yan-bin; Ma, Xing-ming; Li, Hui-li; Zhang, Xiao-yun; Li, Shou-tang

2014-11-01

To investigate the immune function of mice being given the extract of Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation. Mice were divided into five groups. Except the normal control group, the mice were fed with the extract of Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation at the high,medium and low doses, as well as medium dose of Codonopsis Radix maintained with low-temperature vacuum method, respectively. Mice were treated once a day for 10 continuous days. Weight change,organ indexes, blood cell indices, macrophage phagocytic function, and IL-2 and IFN-γ levels were measured. Compared with normal control group, Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation at medium and high doses inhibited body weight increase of mice; white blood cell count of high dose group was significantly increased; significant increase of macrophage phagocytosis were observed for all groups except the normal control group; and spleen index and IFN-γ level of Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation medium dose group were increased significantly. Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation can promote mouse immune function to a certain degree. There was no difference in immune effect between Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation and low-temperature vacuum method during experimental period. However,taking the extract of Codonopsis Radix maintained with sulfur fumigation can exert negative effect on appetite and body weight in mice.

Effects of a Tripeptide Iron on Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Rats.

PubMed

Xiao, Chen; Lei, Xingen; Wang, Qingyu; Du, Zhongyao; Jiang, Lu; Chen, Silu; Zhang, Mingjie; Zhang, Hao; Ren, Fazheng

2016-02-01

This study aims to investigate the effects of a tripeptide iron (REE-Fe) on iron-deficiency anemia rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into seven groups: a normal control group, an iron-deficiency control group, and iron-deficiency groups treated with ferrous sulfate (FeSO4), ferrous glycinate (Fe-Gly), or REE-Fe at low-, medium-, or high-dose groups. The rats in the iron-deficiency groups were fed on an iron-deficient diet to establish iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) model. After the model established, different iron supplements were given to the rats once a day by intragastric administration for 21 days. The results showed that REE-Fe had effective restorative action returning body weight, organ coefficients, and hematological parameters in IDA rats to normal level. In addition, comparing with FeSO4 or Fe-Gly, high-dose REE-Fe was more effective on improving the levels of renal coefficient, total iron-binding capacity, and transferrin. Furthermore, the liver hepcidin messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in the high-dose group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that in the FeSO4 or Fe-Gly group and showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) with the normal control group. The findings suggest that REE-Fe is an effective source of iron supplement for IDA rats and might be exploited as a new iron fortifier.

Corpus callosum functioning in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus before and after surgery.

PubMed

Mataró, Maria; Poca, Maria Antonia; Matarín, Mar; Sahuquillo, Juan; Sebastián, Nuria; Junqué, Carme

2006-05-01

Our aim was to evaluate corpus callosum functioning in a group of patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) before and after shunting. Left ear-extinction under a dichotic listening task was evaluated in twenty-three patients with NPH, 30 patients with Alzheimer's disease and 30 aged controls. Patients with NPH had higher levels of left ear extinction than the control and Alzheimer's groups. Sixty-one percent of NPH patients exhibited left ear suppression, compared with 13% of Alzheimer's patients and 17% of controls. Following surgery, NPH patients showed a significant change in the degree of asymmetry in the dichotic listening task. Hydrocephalus was associated with left-ear extinction,which diminished after surgery. Our results may indicate reversible functional damage in the corpus callosum.

Circulating parathyroid hormone and calcitonin in rats after spaceflight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arnaud, Sara B.; Fung, Paul; Popova, Irina A.; Morey-Holton, Emily R.; Grindeland, Richard E.

1992-01-01

Parathyroid hormone and calcithonin, two major calcium-regulating hormones, were measured in the plasma of five experimental groups of rats to evaluate postflight calcium homeostasis after the 14-day Cosmos 2044 flight. Parathyroid hormone values were slightly higher in the flight animals (F) than in the appropriate cage and diet controls (S) (44 +/- 21 vs 21 +/- 4 pg/ml, P less than 0.05), but they were the same as in the vivarium controls (V), which had different housing and feeding schedules. The difference in F and V (22 +/- 11 vs 49 +/- 16 pg/ml, P less than 0.05) was most likely due to failure of circulating calcitonin in F to show the normal age-dependent increase which was demonstrated in age-matched controls in a separate experiment. Basal values for parathyroid hormone and calcitonin were unchanged after 2 wk of hindlimb suspension, a flight simulation model, in age-matched and younger rats. From a time course experiment serum calcium was higher and parathyroid hormone lower after 4 wk than in ambulatory controls. Postflight circulating levels of parathyroid hormone appear to reflect disturbances in calcium homeostasis from impaired renal function of undetermined cause, whereas levels of calcitonin reflect depression of a normal growth process.

Pregnancy outcomes among women with beta-thalassemia trait.

PubMed

Charoenboon, Chitrakan; Jatavan, Phudit; Traisrisilp, Kuntharee; Tongsong, Theera

2016-04-01

To compare the obstetric outcomes between pregnant women affected by beta-thalassemia trait and normal controls. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on singleton pregnant women complicated by beta-thalassemia trait and normal controls, randomly selected with the controls-to-case ratio of 2:1. All were low-risk pregnancies without underlying medical diseases and fetal anomalies. The pregnancies undergoing invasive prenatal diagnosis were excluded. A total of 597 pregnant women with beta-thalassemia trait and 1194 controls were recruited. Baseline characteristics and maternal outcomes in the two groups were similar, except that hemoglobin levels were slightly lower in the study group. The prevalence of small for gestational age and preterm birth tended to be higher in the study group but not reached the significant levels but the rate of low birth weight was significantly higher in the study group (relative risk 1.25; 95 % CI 1.00-1.57). Additionally, abortion rate was also significantly higher in the study group (relative risk 3.25; 95 % CI 1.35-7.80). Beta-thalassemia trait could minimally, but significantly, increase risk of low birth weight but did not increase rates of maternal adverse outcomes.

Passive control of rotorcraft high-speed impulsive noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szulc, O.; Doerffer, P.; Tejero, F.

2016-10-01

A strong, normal shock wave, terminating a local supersonic area located at the tip of a helicopter blade, not only limits the aerodynamic performance, but also constitutes an origin of the High-Speed Impulsive (HSI) noise. The application of a passive control device (a shallow cavity covered by a perforated plate) just beneath the interaction region weakens the compression level, thus reducing the main source of the HSI noise. The numerical investigation based on the URANS approach and Bohning/Doerffer (BD) transpiration law (SPARC code) confirms a large potential of the new method. Two exemplary implementations, adapted to model helicopter rotors tested at NASA Ames facility in transonic conditions: Caradonna-Tung (lifting, transonic hover) and Caradonna-Laub-Tung (non-lifting, high-speed forward flight), demonstrate the possible gains in terms of the reduction of acoustic pressure fluctuations in the near-field of the blade tip. The CFD results are validated against the experimental data obtained for the reference configurations (no control), while the analysis of the passive control arrangement is based on a purely numerical research. The normal shock wave is effectively eliminated by the wall ventilation exerting a positive impact on the generated level of the HSI noise.

Protective effect of lipoic acid on cyclophosphamide-induced testicular toxicity.

PubMed

Selvakumar, Elangovan; Prahalathan, Chidambaram; Sudharsan, Periyasamy Thandavan; Varalakshmi, Palaninathan

2006-05-01

Cyclophosphamide (CP), a widely used anticancer and immunosuppressive drug causes severe testicular toxicity. We investigated the protective effect of lipoic acid in CP-induced testicular toxicity. Two groups of male Wistar rats (140+/-20 g) were administered CP (15 mg/kg body weight, oral gavage) once a week for 10 weeks to induce testicular toxicity; one of these groups received lipoic acid treatment (35 mg/kg body weight, i.p., 24 h prior to CP administration) once a week for 10 weeks. A vehicle treated control and a lipoic acid control groups were also included. The untreated CP exposed rats showed a significant increase in testicular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, along with a significant decrease in cellular thiol levels. The activities of testicular marker enzymes such as gamma-glutamyl transferase, beta-glucuronidase, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase were increased whereas the activities of sorbitol dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase-X were decreased significantly in the animals treated with CP. In contrast, rats pretreated with lipoic acid showed normal marker enzymic patterns and normal levels of ROS and thiols. Testicular protection by lipoic acid is further substantiated by the normal histologic findings as against shrunken seminiferous tubules with impaired spermatogenesis in the CP administered rats. By the reversal of biochemical and morphological changes towards normalcy, the cytoprotective role of lipoic acid is illuminated in CP-induced testicular toxicity.

Parathyroid hormone gene expression in hypophosphatemic rats.

PubMed Central

Kilav, R; Silver, J; Naveh-Many, T

1995-01-01

Phosphate is central to bone metabolism and we have therefore studied whether parathyroid hormone (PTH) is regulated by dietary phosphate in vivo. Weanling rats were fed diets with different phosphate contents for 3 wk: low phosphate (0.02%), normal calcium (0.6%), normal phosphate (0.3%), and calcium (0.6%); high phosphate (1.2%), high calcium (1.2%). The low phosphate diet led to hypophosphatemia, hypercalcemia, and increased serum 1,25(OH)2D3 together with decreased PTH mRNA levels (25 +/- 8% of controls, P < 0.01) and serum immunoreactive PTH (4.7 +/- 0.8: 22.1 +/- 3.7 pg/ml; low phosphate: control, P < 0.05). A high phosphate diet led to increased PTH mRNA levels. In situ hybridization showed that hypophosphatemia decreased PTH mRNA in all the parathyroid cells. To separate the effect of low phosphate from changes in calcium and vitamin D rats were fed diets to maintain them as vitamin D-deficient and normocalcemic despite the hypophosphatemia. Hypophosphatemic, normocalemic rats with normal serum 1,25(OH)2D3 levels still had decreased PTH mRNAs. Nuclear transcript run-ons showed that the effect of low phosphate was posttranscriptional. Calcium and 1,25(OH)2D3 regulate the parathyroid and we now show that dietary phosphate also regulates the parathyroid by a mechanism which remains to be defined. Images PMID:7615802

Markers of iron deficiency in patients with polycythemia vera receiving ruxolitinib or best available therapy.

PubMed

Verstovsek, Srdan; Harrison, Claire N; Kiladjian, Jean-Jacques; Miller, Carole; Naim, Ahmad B; Paranagama, Dilan C; Habr, Dany; Vannucchi, Alessandro M

2017-05-01

Polycythemia vera (PV) is characterized by erythropoiesis and JAK2-activating mutations, with increased risks of morbidity and mortality. Most patients with PV are iron deficient, and treatment often includes hematocrit control with phlebotomy, which may exacerbate iron deficiency-associated complications. The phase 3 RESPONSE trial evaluated the JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib (n=110) versus best available therapy (BAT; n=112) in patients with PV who were hydroxyurea-resistant/intolerant. Ruxolitinib was superior to BAT for hematocrit control, reduction in splenomegaly, and blood count normalization. This exploratory analysis, the first to evaluate iron status in a prospective study of patients with PV, investigated ruxolitinib effects on 7 serum iron markers and iron deficiency-related patient-reported outcomes (PRO). Among patients with evidence of baseline iron deficiency, ruxolitinib was associated with normalization of iron marker levels, compared with lesser improvement with BAT. Iron levels remained stable in ruxolitinib patients with normal iron levels at baseline. Regardless of baseline iron status, treatment with ruxolitinib was associated with improvements in concentration problems, cognitive function, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and inactivity, although improvements were generally greater among patients with baseline iron deficiency. The improvements in iron deficiency markers and PROs observed with ruxolitinib are suggestive of clinical benefits that warrant further exploration. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

An Evaluation of Deficits in Semantic Cuing, Proactive and Retroactive Interference as Early Features of Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

Crocco, Elizabeth; Curiel, Rosie E.; Acevedo, Amarilis; Czaja, Sara J.; Loewenstein, David A.

2015-01-01

OBJECTIVE To determine the degree to which susceptibility to different types of semantic interference may reflect the earliest manifestations of early Alzheimer disease (AD) beyond the effects of global memory impairment. METHODS Normal elderly (NE) subjects (n= 47), subjects with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI: n=34) and 40 subjects with probable AD were evaluated using a unique cued recall paradigm that allowed for an evaluation of both proactive and retroactive interference effects while controlling for global memory impairment (LASSI-L procedure). RESULTS Controlling for overall memory impairment, aMCI subjects had much greater proactive and retroactive interference effects than NE subjects. LASSI-L indices of learning using cued recall evidenced high levels of sensitivity and specificity with an overall correct classification rate of 90%. These provided better discrimination than traditional neuropsychological measures of memory function. CONCLUSION The LASSI-L paradigm is unique and unlike other assessments of memory in that items presented for cued recall are explicitly presented, and semantic interference and cuing effects can be assessed while controlling for initial level of memory impairment. This represents a powerful procedure allowing the participant to serve as his or her own control. The high levels of discrimination between subjects with aMCI and normal cognition that exceeded traditional neuropsychological measures makes the LASSI-L worthy of further research in the detection of early AD. PMID:23768680

Structural and vascular response of normal and obstructed rabbit whole bladders to distension.

PubMed

Matsumoto, Seiji; Chichester, Paul; Kogan, Barry A; Levin, Robert M

2003-12-01

To investigate the structural and morphologic effect of distension after partial outlet obstruction in rabbits. Thirty male New Zealand white rabbits were separated into two groups: control (sham) and partial outlet obstruction (3 weeks). Three rabbits from each group were distended to 5%, 25%, 50%, 100%, and 125% of capacity. Each bladder was fixed at the volume in buffered formalin for 6 to 8 hours. Sections of dorsal and ventral bladder were blocked, and cross sections were evaluated. Quantitative morphometry was performed, and CD31 immunohistochemistry was used to characterize the vascularity. Partial outlet obstruction resulted in increased bladder weight and capacity and increased thickness of the mucosa, submucosa, detrusor, and serosa. In the control bladder, the greatest thinning was seen between 5% and 25% capacity, and in the obstructed group, the greatest thinning occurred between 25% and 50%. The level of vascular collapse was significantly greater for the control bladders than for the obstructed bladders at all levels of distension. Finally, the obstructed bladders showed a significantly greater level of vascularity in the submucosa than the control bladders. Normal bladder distension resulted in significant morphologic changes when the bladder was distended to 25% of capacity but changed relatively little between 25% and 125%. However, distension of the obstructed bladder resulted in significant morphologic changes when the bladder was distended from 25% to 50% of capacity but changed relatively little between 50% and 125%.

Average ambulatory measures of sound pressure level, fundamental frequency, and vocal dose do not differ between adult females with phonotraumatic lesions and matched control subjects

PubMed Central

Van Stan, Jarrad H.; Mehta, Daryush D.; Zeitels, Steven M.; Burns, James A.; Barbu, Anca M.; Hillman, Robert E.

2015-01-01

Objectives Clinical management of phonotraumatic vocal fold lesions (nodules, polyps) is based largely on assumptions that abnormalities in habitual levels of sound pressure level (SPL), fundamental frequency (f0), and/or amount of voice use play a major role in lesion development and chronic persistence. This study used ambulatory voice monitoring to evaluate if significant differences in voice use exist between patients with phonotraumatic lesions and normal matched controls. Methods Subjects were 70 adult females: 35 with vocal fold nodules or polyps and 35 age-, sex-, and occupation-matched normal individuals. Weeklong summary statistics of voice use were computed from anterior neck surface acceleration recorded using a smartphone-based ambulatory voice monitor. Results Paired t-tests and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests resulted in no statistically significant differences between patients and matched controls regarding average measures of SPL, f0, vocal dose measures, and voicing/voice rest periods. Paired t-tests comparing f0 variability between the groups resulted in statistically significant differences with moderate effect sizes. Conclusions Individuals with phonotraumatic lesions did not exhibit differences in average ambulatory measures of vocal behavior when compared with matched controls. More refined characterizations of underlying phonatory mechanisms and other potentially contributing causes are warranted to better understand risk factors associated with phonotraumatic lesions. PMID:26024911

Suppression of osteoblastic phenotypes and modulation of pro- and anti-apoptotic features in normal human osteoblastic cells under a vector-averaged gravity condition.

PubMed

Nakamura, Hiroshi; Kumei, Yasuhiro; Morita, Sadao; Shimokawa, Hitoyata; Ohya, Keiichi; Shinomiya, Kenichi

2003-06-01

Spaceflight and bed rest induce loss of bone mass. A number of in vivo and in vitro studies have been conducted to clarify the mechanisms, however, the results have been conflicting. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of gravity unloading on proliferation, phenotypes, and apoptosis of normal human osteoblastic cells in the presence of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. We used a vector-averaged gravity condition generated by clinostat rotation to simulate gravity unloading. Clinostat rotation did not affect the cell proliferation. On the first day, the mRNA levels for osteocalcin, ALP, CBFA1, VDR, RANKL, and OPG were reduced by clinostat rotation to 21%, 65%, 62%, 52%, 43%, and 54% of control, respectively. ALP activity was decreased to 75% of control. On the second day, the mRNA levels for osteocalcin and RANKL were reduced to 77% and 61% of control, respectively. The decreased VDR mRNA level might be responsible for the reduction for mRNA levels for osteocalcin, RANKL, and OPG. Clinostat rotation increased the pro-apoptotic index (Bax/Bcl-2 ratio) but did not induce apoptosis due to the simultaneous upregulation of the anti-apoptotic XIAP. Reduction of osteoblast responsiveness to 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 might be involved in osteopenia that is induced by gravity unloading.

State-dependent alterations of lipid profiles in patients with bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Huang, Yu-Jui; Tsai, Shang-Ying; Chung, Kuo-Hsuan; Chen, Pao-Huan; Huang, Shou-Hung; Kuo, Chian-Jue

2018-07-01

Objective Serum lipid levels may be associated with the affective severity of bipolar disorder, but data on lipid profiles in Asian patients with bipolar disorder and the lipid alterations in different states of opposite polarities are scant. We investigated the lipid profiles of patients in the acute affective, partial, and full remission state in bipolar mania and depression. Methods The physically healthy patients aged between 18 and 45 years with bipolar I disorder, as well as age-matched healthy normal controls were enrolled. We compared the fasting blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein of manic or depressed patients in the acute phase and subsequent partial and full remission with those of their normal controls. Results A total of 32 bipolar manic patients (12 women and 20 men), 32 bipolar depressed participants (18 women and 14 men), and 64 healthy control participants took part in this study. The mean cholesterol level in acute mania was significantly lower than that in acute depression (p < 0.025). The lowest rate of dyslipidemia (hypertriglyceridemia or low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) was observed in acute bipolar mania. Conclusion Circulating lipid profiles may be easily affected by affective states. The acute manic state may be accompanied by state-dependent lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels relative to that in other mood states.

Dietary Supplementation with Virgin Coconut Oil Improves Lipid Profile and Hepatic Antioxidant Status and Has Potential Benefits on Cardiovascular Risk Indices in Normal Rats.

PubMed

Famurewa, Ademola C; Ekeleme-Egedigwe, Chima A; Nwali, Sophia C; Agbo, Ngozi N; Obi, Joy N; Ezechukwu, Goodness C

2018-05-04

Research findings that suggest beneficial health effects of dietary supplementation with virgin coconut oil (VCO) are limited in the published literature. This study investigated the in vivo effects of a 5-week VCO-supplemented diet on lipid profile, hepatic antioxidant status, hepatorenal function, and cardiovascular risk indices in normal rats. Rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: 1 control and 2 treatment groups (10% and 15% VCO-supplemented diets) for 5 weeks. Serum and homogenate samples were used to analyze lipid profile, hepatorenal function markers, hepatic activities of antioxidant enzymes, and malondialdehyde level. Lipid profile of animals fed VCO diets showed significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels; high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level increased significantly (p < .05) compared to control; and there were beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk indices. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation marker, remarkably reduced and activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes-superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)-were markedly increased in VCO diet-fed rats. The VCO diet significantly modulated creatinine, sodium (Na + ), potassium (K + ), chloride (Cl - ), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) compared to control. The findings suggest a beneficial effect of VCO on lipid profile, renal status, hepatic antioxidant defense system, and cardiovascular risk indices in rats.

Glucose Intolerance, Plasma Insulin Levels, and Colon Adenomas in Japanese Men

PubMed Central

Kono, Suminori; Abe, Hiroshi; Eguchi, Hiroyuki; Shimazaki, Kae; Hatano, Ben; Hamada, Hiroaki

2001-01-01

Hyperinsulinemia may be related to colon carcinogenesis. Several studies have suggested that diabetes mellitus is related to increased risk of colon cancer. We examined cross‐sectionally the relation of fasting plasma insulin levels and glucose tolerance status to colon adenomas. In a consecutive series of 951 men undergoing total colonoscopy for a health examination at the Japan Self Defense Forces Fukuoka Hospital from April 1998 to August 1999, we identified 233 cases of colon adenomas and 497 controls with normal colonoscopy. Glucose tolerance status was determined by a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test, and subjects were classified as normal, unpaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Plasma insulin levels were measured after subjects had fasted overnight. Logistic regression analysis and analysis of covariance was used to control for age and obesity. While plasma insulin levels were unrelated to colon adenomas, NIDDM was associated with a significantly increased risk of colon adenomas. There was no association between IGT and colon adenomas. NIDDM was more strongly associated with proximal colon adenomas. The findings suggest that long‐term hyperinsulinemic status associated with NIDDM may increase the risk of colon adenomas, and subsequently of colon cancer. PMID:11509114

HPA axis response to social stress is attenuated in schizophrenia but normal in depression: evidence from a meta-analysis of existing studies.

PubMed

Ciufolini, Simone; Dazzan, Paola; Kempton, Matthew J; Pariante, Carmine; Mondelli, Valeria

2014-11-01

We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the HPA axis response to social stress in studies that used the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), or comparable distressing paradigms, in individuals with either depression or schizophrenia. Sample size-adjusted effect sizes (Hedge's g statistic) were calculated to estimate the HPA axis stress response to social stress. We used a meta-regression model to take into account the moderating effect of the baseline cortisol level. Participants with depression show an activation pattern to social stress similar to that of healthy controls. Despite a normal cortisol production rate, individuals with schizophrenia have lower cortisol levels than controls both in anticipation and after exposure to social stress. Participants with depression and higher cortisol levels before the task have an increased cortisol production and reached higher cortisol levels during the task. This may be explained by the presence of an impaired negative feedback. The activation pattern present in schizophrenia may explain the reduced ability to appropriately contextualize past experiences shown by individuals with psychosis in social stressful situation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Brain structure characteristics in intellectually superior schizophrenia.

PubMed

Vaskinn, Anja; Hartberg, Cecilie B; Sundet, Kjetil; Westlye, Lars T; Andreassen, Ole A; Melle, Ingrid; Agartz, Ingrid

2015-04-30

The current study aims to fill a gap in the knowledge base by investigating the structural brain characteristics of individuals with schizophrenia and superior intellectual abilities. Subcortical volumes, cortical thickness and cortical surface area were examined in intellectually normal and intellectually superior participants with schizophrenia and their IQ-matched healthy controls, as well as in intellectually low schizophrenia participants. We replicated significant diagnostic group effects on hippocampal and ventricular size after correction for multiple comparisons. There were no statistically significant effects of intellectual level or of the interaction between diagnostic group and intellectual level. Effect sizes indicated that differences between schizophrenia and healthy control participants were of similar magnitude at both intellectual levels for all three types of morphological data. A secondary analysis within the schizophrenia group, including participants with low intellectual abilities, yielded numerical, but no statistically significant differences on any structural brain measure. The present findings indicate that the brain structure abnormalities in schizophrenia are present at all intellectual levels, and individuals with schizophrenia and superior intellectual abilities have brain structure abnormalities of the same magnitude as individuals with schizophrenia and normal intellectual abilities. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Glomerular malondialdehyde levels in patients with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis and minimal change disease.

PubMed

Nezhad, Simin Torabi; Momeni, Babak; Basiratnia, Mitra

2010-09-01

Minimal change disease (MCD) and focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are often studied together, because both present with heavy proteinuria and the nephrotic syndrome. The precise distinction between MCD and FSGS is sometimes difficult because of inadequate number of glomeruli for definite diagnosis. Some evidence suggests that markers of lipid peroxidation, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) is an index of free radical mediated injury and may be involved in the pathogenesis of FSGS. In this study, we assessed the immunoreactivity of MDA, the end product of lipid peroxidation in glomeruli of patients with idiopathic FSGS, MCD as well as normal controls (NC). Our results showed that the immunostaining level of MDA was significantly higher in patients with FSGS (mean = 1.5) than in either patients with MCD (mean = 0.16) or normal controls (mean = 0.11) with P value < 0.001. Glomerular MDA level correlated well with the degree of glomerulosclerosis in patients with idiopathic FSGS. Our data demonstrates that the glomerular level of MDA is higher in idiopathic FSGS than MCD. We suggest that MDA immunostaining can be helpful in differentiating between FSGS and MCD in problematic cases and when we do not have enough glomeruli for definite and correct diagnosis.

Aquaponic Growbed Water Level Control Using Fog Architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asmi Romli, Muhamad; Daud, Shuhaizar; Raof, Rafikha Aliana A.; Awang Ahmad, Zahari; Mahrom, Norfadilla

2018-05-01

Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) is an advance method of aquaculture which combines species with different nutritional needs to live together. The combination between aquatic live and crops is called aquaponics. Aquatic waste that normally removed by biofilters in normal aquaculture practice will be absorbed by crops in this practice. Aquaponics have few common components and growbed provide the best filtration function. In growbed a siphon act as mechanical structure to control water fill and flush process. Water to the growbed comes from fish tank with multiple flow speeds based on the pump specification and height. Too low speed and too fast flow rate can result in siphon malfunctionality. Pumps with variable speed do exist but it is costly. Majority of the aquaponic practitioner use single speed pump and try to match the pump speed with siphon operational requirement. In order to remove the matching requirement some control need to be introduced. Preliminarily this research will show the concept of fill-and-flush for multiple pumping speeds. The final aim of this paper is to show how water level management can be done to remove the speed dependency. The siphon tried to be controlled remotely since wireless data transmission quite practical in vast operational area. Fog architecture will be used in order to transmit sensor data and control command. This paper able to show the water able to be retented in the growbed within suggested duration by stopping the flow in once predefined level.

Treatment and prevention of experimental autoimmune myocarditis with CD28 superagonists.

PubMed

Wang, Shu; Liu, Jing; Wang, Min; Zhang, Jinghui; Wang, Zhaohui

2010-01-01

Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), a rodent model of human dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), is mediated by an autoimmune mechanism. We investigated whether a CD28 superagonistic antibody selectively targeting CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (T(regs)) provides effective therapy for EAM. Four groups of 5 rats were used. The normal control group was immunized with PBS. The EAM group was immunized with porcine myosin. The experimental group was immunized with myosin and superagonistic CD28 antibody JJ316. The final group was immunized with myosin and an unrelated rat IgG. Autoantibody and IL-10 production, CD4+CD25+ cell levels, Foxp3 expression and cardiac histology were analyzed. Anti-myosin autoantibody levels were higher in the EAM and isotype control groups than the normal control group (p < 0.05), and reduced in the CD28-JJ316 group (p < 0.05). The levels of CD25+CD4+ cells, IL-10 and splenocyte Foxp3 expression were significantly lower in the EAM and isotype control groups versus the CD28-JJ316 group (p < 0.05). Infiltration of inflammatory cells was observed in the EAM and isotype control groups, whereas CD28-JJ316 ameliorated myocarditis. CD28 superagonists could be effective in EAM treatment by up-regulating Foxp3 expression and contributing to CD4+CD25+ T(reg) activation and expansion. The enhancement in IL-10 by CD28 superagonists also ameliorated the disease.

Serum accumulation of a creatinine oxidative metabolite (NZ-419: 5-hydroxy-1- methylhydatoin) as an intrinsic antioxidant in diabetic patients with or without chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Hasegawa, G; Nakano, K; Ienaga, K

2011-10-01

In mammals, creatinine (Cr) is catabolized by a dual oxidative pathway via 5-hydroxy-1-methylhydantoin or 5-hydroxycreatinine. The former, an intrinsic antioxidant, termed NZ-419, has been reported to prevent the progression of chronic renal failure in animal models. However, its clinical intrinsic serum level has not yet been reported. We analyzed serum NZ-419 levels in diabetic and nondiabetic patients with or without Stage 3 - 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD). The levels of NZ-419 in diabetic patients with (88.1 ± 17.2 µg/dl, p < 0.001) or without (31.5 ± 2.4 µg/dl, p < 0.05) Stage 3 - 5 CKD were significantly higher than in nondiabetic normal controls (9.0 ± 5.6 µg/dl). The molar ratio data showed NZ-419/Cr was significantly higher in both diabetic patients with (p < 0.01) or without Stage 3 - 5 CKD (p < 0.001) compared to nondiabetic normal controls. No further increase occurred with increasing severity of renal failure. Furthermore, nondiabetic patients with or without Stage 3 - 5 CKD did not show significantly different molar ratio values than controls but had significantly higher values of NZ-419 levels (p < 0.001). Overproduction and decreased clearance played a major role in the increased NZ-419 levels we observed in the patients with diabetes and Stage 3 - 5 CKD, respectively. The existence of chronic renal failure did not further enhance this overproduction.

Decreased level of cord blood circulating endothelial colony-forming cells in preeclampsia.

PubMed

Muñoz-Hernandez, Rocio; Miranda, Maria L; Stiefel, Pablo; Lin, Ruei-Zeng; Praena-Fernández, Juan M; Dominguez-Simeon, Maria J; Villar, Jose; Moreno-Luna, Rafael; Melero-Martin, Juan M

2014-07-01

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disorder associated with increased cardiovascular risk for the offspring. Endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) are a subset of circulating endothelial progenitor cells that participate in the formation of vasculature during development. However, the effect of preeclampsia on fetal levels of ECFCs is largely unknown. In this study, we sought to determine whether cord blood ECFC abundance and function are altered in preeclampsia. We conducted a prospective cohort study that included women with normal (n=35) and preeclamptic (n=15) pregnancies. We measured ECFC levels in the umbilical cord blood of neonates and characterized ECFC phenotype, cloning-forming ability, proliferation, and migration toward vascular endothelial growth factor-A and fibroblast growth factor-2, in vitro formation of capillary-like structures, and in vivo vasculogenic ability in immunodeficient mice. We found that the level of cord blood ECFCs was statistically lower in preeclampsia than in control pregnancies (P=0.04), a reduction that was independent of other obstetric factors. In addition, cord blood ECFCs from preeclamptic pregnancies required more time to emerge in culture than control ECFCs. However, once derived in culture, ECFC function was deemed normal and highly similar between preeclampsia and control, including the ability to form vascular networks in vivo. This study demonstrates that preeclampsia affects ECFC abundance in neonates. A reduced level of ECFCs during preeclamptic pregnancies may contribute to an increased risk of developing future cardiovascular events. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

[Metabolic activity of neutrophilic granulocytes and possible ways of its correction in patients with acute coronary syndrome].

PubMed

Ryzhkova, N A; Havrylenko, T I; Parkhomenko, O M; Kozhukhov, S M

2011-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate the metabolic activity of neutrocytes and the action of corvitin on the level of superoxide anion and myeloperoxidases of cells in vitro with the calculation of index of consumption of myeloperoxidase in patients with ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome. Patient were divided into 2 groups according to the level of superoxide anion. Group 1 included the patients (68%) with the initially low level of superoxide anion, and adding of corvitin to the cells of such patients promoted normalization of this index. In this group we observed also neutrocytosis, low index of consumption of myeloperoxidase and a high level of this enzyme in general population of neutrocytes. Group 2 included patients (32%) with initially normal level of superoxide anion. In this group, corvitin did not influence substantially this factor. Such patients had a level ofmyeloperoxidase within control values and the index of consumption of this enzyme was also within control values. The analysis of hospital period showed that the patients of group 1 had a higher frequency of ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation, paroxysms of atrial fibrillation, bundle-branch blocks and worsening of the kidney function. We suppose that a low level of superoxide anion in neutrocytes play a major role in the development of complications in patients with acute coronary syndrome. An intravenous administration of corvitin was effective in restoring the metabolic activity of neutrocytes.

The Investigation of Serum Vaspin Level in Atherosclerotic Coronary Artery Disease

PubMed Central

Kobat, Mehmet Ali; Celik, Ahmet; Balin, Mehmet; Altas, Yakup; Baydas, Adil; Bulut, Musa; Aydin, Suleyman; Dagli, Necati; Yavuzkir, Mustafa Ferzeyn; Ilhan, Selcuk

2012-01-01

Background It was speculated that fatty tissue originated adipocytokines may play role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. These adipocytokines may alter vascular homeostasis by effecting endothelial cells, arterial smooth muscle cells and macrophages. Vaspin is a newly described member of adipocytokines family. We aimed to investigate whether plasma vaspin level has any predictive value in coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods Forty patients who have at least single vessel ≥ 70 % stenosis demostrated angiographically and 40 subjects with normal coronary anatomy were included to the study. The vaspin levels were measured from serum that is obtained by centrifigation of blood and stored at -20 oC by ELISA method. The length, weight and body mass index of patients were measured. Biochemical parameters including total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, creatinine, sodium, potassium, hemoglobine, uric acid and fasting glucose were also measured. Results Biochemical markers levels were similar in both groups. Serum vaspin levels were significantly lower in CAD patients than control group (respectively; 256 ± 219 pg/ml vs. 472 ( 564 pg/ml, P < 0.02). Beside this serum vaspin level was lower in control group with high systolic blood pressure. Conclusion Serum vaspin levels were found significantly lower in patients with CAD than age-matched subjects with normal coronary anatomy. Vaspin may be used as a predictor of CAD. Keywords Coronary artery disease; Vaspin; Adipokine PMID:22505983

The investigation of serum vaspin level in atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

PubMed

Kobat, Mehmet Ali; Celik, Ahmet; Balin, Mehmet; Altas, Yakup; Baydas, Adil; Bulut, Musa; Aydin, Suleyman; Dagli, Necati; Yavuzkir, Mustafa Ferzeyn; Ilhan, Selcuk

2012-04-01

It was speculated that fatty tissue originated adipocytokines may play role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. These adipocytokines may alter vascular homeostasis by effecting endothelial cells, arterial smooth muscle cells and macrophages. Vaspin is a newly described member of adipocytokines family. We aimed to investigate whether plasma vaspin level has any predictive value in coronary artery disease (CAD). Forty patients who have at least single vessel ≥ 70 % stenosis demostrated angiographically and 40 subjects with normal coronary anatomy were included to the study. The vaspin levels were measured from serum that is obtained by centrifigation of blood and stored at -20 (o)C by ELISA method. The length, weight and body mass index of patients were measured. Biochemical parameters including total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, creatinine, sodium, potassium, hemoglobine, uric acid and fasting glucose were also measured. Biochemical markers levels were similar in both groups. Serum vaspin levels were significantly lower in CAD patients than control group (respectively; 256 ± 219 pg/ml vs. 472 ( 564 pg/ml, P < 0.02). Beside this serum vaspin level was lower in control group with high systolic blood pressure. Serum vaspin levels were found significantly lower in patients with CAD than age-matched subjects with normal coronary anatomy. Vaspin may be used as a predictor of CAD. Coronary artery disease; Vaspin; Adipokine.

Effect of Powder Leaf Breadfruit Disposals (Arthocarpus Altilis) in Oil Mandar District and Polman Against Cholesterol and Glucose Mice (Mus Musculus)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu'nisa, A.; Asmawati, A.; Farida, A.; FA, Fressy; Erni

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of powdered leaves of breadfruit (Arthocarpus altilis) on oil is mandated origin of the Polman glucose and cholesterol levels in mice (Mus musculus). This study comprised 4 treatments and each treatment consisted of 5 replicates, ie groups of mice were fed a standard (negative control); 2 groups: group of mice fed with standard and cholesterol feed (positive control); Group 3 that mice fed with standard and Selayar oil; and group 4: group of mice fed with standard and Mandar oil that has been given powdered leaves of breadfruit. Measurement of glucose and blood cholesterol levels in mice done 3 times ie 2 weeks after the adaptation period (phase 1), 2 weeks after administration of the oil (phase 2) and 2 weeks after feeding cholesterol (stage 3). Based on the analysis of data both cholesterol and glucose levels showed that in a group of 4 decreased glucose and cholesterol levels in stage 2 but at stage 3 an increase in the group of mice given only the oil while in the group of mice given the oil and powdered leaves of breadfruit indicate glucose levels and normal cholesterol. The conclusion of this study show that the addition of powdered leaves of breadfruit into cooking oil Mandar influential in glucose levels and normalize blood cholesterol levels in mice.

Combined effects of mild-to-moderate obesity and asthma on physiological and sensory responses to exercise.

PubMed

Cortés-Télles, Arturo; Torre-Bouscoulet, Luis; Silva-Cerón, Monica; Mejía-Alfaro, Roberto; Syed, Nafeez; Zavorsky, Gerald S; Guenette, Jordan A

2015-11-01

Despite the close link between asthma and obesity, there are no studies that have evaluated the sensory and physiological responses to exercise in obese asthmatics. We recently demonstrated that normal weight asthmatics with well controlled disease have preserved cardiorespiratory and sensory responses to exercise relative to non-asthmatic controls. However, these similarities may not hold true in patients with combined obesity and asthma. Accordingly, we sought to determine if combined asthma and obesity was associated with deleterious effects on cardiorespiratory fitness, exercise performance, dyspnoea, and physiological responses to exercise. Fourteen well-controlled obese asthmatics and fourteen age-matched normal weight asthmatics performed routine spirometry and underwent an incremental cardiopulmonary cycle test to assess the ventilatory, pulmonary gas exchange, cardiovascular, and sensory responses to exercise. Groups were well matched for age, height, spirometry, and asthma control. Obese asthmatics had a significantly greater body mass index (33 ± 3 vs. 23 ± 1 kg/m(2), p < 0.001) and lower self-reported activity levels by 47 % relative to normal weight asthmatics (p < 0.05). Obese asthmatics had a significantly lower maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2)) (82 ± 14 vs. 92 ± 10 %predicted) and work rate (75 ± 8 vs. 89 ± 13 %predicted) relative to normal weight asthmatics (p < 0.05). The anaerobic threshold occurred at a lower VO(2) in obese asthmatics vs. normal weight asthmatics (54 ± 15 vs. 66 ± 16 %predicted, p < 0.05). Ventilatory responses were superimposed throughout exercise with no evidence of a ventilatory limitation in either group. Cardiovascular responses were normal in both groups. Dyspnoea responses were similar but the obese asthmatics experienced greater leg fatigue ratings at submaximal work rates. In conclusion, obese individuals with well controlled asthma have reduced cardiorespiratory fitness and greater leg fatigue ratings relative to normal weight asthmatics. The relatively reduced cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise performance in obese compared to normal weight asthmatics is most likely driven by their more sedentary lifestyle and resultant deconditioning rather than due to respiratory factors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimal blood glucose level control using dynamic programming based on minimal Bergman model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rettian Anggita Sari, Maria; Hartono

2018-03-01

The purpose of this article is to simulate the glucose dynamic and the insulin kinetic of diabetic patient. The model used in this research is a non-linear Minimal Bergman model. Optimal control theory is then applied to formulate the problem in order to determine the optimal dose of insulin in the treatment of diabetes mellitus such that the glucose level is in the normal range for some specific time range. The optimization problem is solved using dynamic programming. The result shows that dynamic programming is quite reliable to represent the interaction between glucose and insulin levels in diabetes mellitus patient.

[Effects of ursodeoxycholic acid on the liver plasma membrane fluidity, hepatic glutathione concentration, hepatic estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors in pregnant rats with ethinylestradiol and progesterone induced intrahepatic cholestasis].

PubMed

Shi, Qing-yun; Kong, Bei-hua; Ma, Kai-dong; Zhang, Xiang-li; Jiang, Sen

2003-11-01

To explore the effects of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on the fluidity of hepatic plasma membrane, glutathione concentration in liver, hepatic estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors in pregnant rats with ethinylestradiol and progesterone induced intrahepatic cholestasis. sixty clean SD pregnant rats were selected and divided into three groups at random. Since the 13th day of pregnancy after taking blood, normal group was injected subcutaneously with refined vegetable oil 2.5 ml x kg(-1) x d(-1). Control group and treatment group were injected subcutaneously with the solution of progesterone 75 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1) and 17-alpha-ethynylestradio 1.25 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1) till the 17th day. Since the 17th day control group, normal group were fedwish 0.9% natriichloridi solution 5 ml x kg(-1) x d(-1); Treatment group was fedwish UDCA 50 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1) every day. On the 21th day, all rats were killed. Then the livers were collected for study. Membrane fluidity was measured by fluorescence polarization using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) as a probe. Glutathione concentration was measured by 5,5'-dithionbis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB). Estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors were measured by flow cytometry. (1) Hepatic plasma membrane fluidity and glutathione (GSH) concentration: significantly lower level of GSH concentration and higher fluorescence polarization (P) were detected in control group (GSH: 1.13 +/- 0.03, P: 0.149 +/- 0.008) in comparison with normal group (GSH: 2.11 +/- 0.07, P: 0.132 +/- 0.004, P < 0.05). However, Significantly higher level of GSH concentration and lower fluorescence polarization were detected in treatment group (GSH: 1.82 +/- 0.04, P: 0.141 +/- 0.006) in comparison with control group (P < 0.05). The level of GSH concentration and fluorescence polarization were no difference between treatment group and normal group. Hepatic estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR): The expression of ER and PR in control group (ER: 89.4 +/- 8.4, PR: 112.3 +/- 11.6) were higher than that of other two groups (P < 0.05). The expression of ER and PR in treatment group (ER: 56.4 +/- 7.5, PR: 70.1 +/- 9.3) were lower than that of control group (P < 0.05). But there was no difference between treatment group and normal group (ER: 39.5 +/- 7.3, PR: 59.6 +/- 7.4; P > 0.05). Ursodeoxycholic acid may be effective drug in treatment intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.

16S rDNA analysis of the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation on pulmonary and intestinal flora.

PubMed

Liu, Tianhao; Yang, Zhongshan; Zhang, Xiaomei; Han, Niping; Yuan, Jiali; Cheng, Yu

2017-12-01

This study aims to explore the effect of FMT on regulations of dysbacteriosis of pulmonary and intestinal flora in rats with 16S rDNA sequencing technology. A total of 27 SPF rats (3-4 weeks old) were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group (K), model control group (MX), and fecal microbiota transplantation group (FMT); each group contained nine rats. The OTU values of the pulmonary and intestinal flora of the MX group decreased significantly compared with the normal control group. After FMT, the OTU value of pulmonary flora increased, while the value of OTU in intestinal flora declined. At the phylum level, FMT down-regulated Proteobacteria , Firmicutes , and Bacteroidetes in the pulmonary flora. At the genus level, FMT down-regulated Pseudomonas , Sphingobium , Lactobacillus , Rhizobium , and Acinetobacter , thus maintaining the balance of the pulmonary flora. Moreover, FMT could change the structure and diversity of the pulmonary and intestinal flora by positively regulating the pulmonary flora and negatively regulating intestinal flora. This study may provide a scientific basis for FMT treatment of respiratory diseases.

Inhibitory ability of children with developmental dyscalculia.

PubMed

Zhang, Huaiying; Wu, Hanrong

2011-02-01

Inhibitory ability of children with developmental dyscalculia (DD) was investigated to explore the cognitive mechanism underlying DD. According to the definition of developmental dyscalculia, 19 children with DD-only and 10 children with DD&RD (DD combined with reading disability) were selected step by step, children in two control groups were matched with children in case groups by gender and age, and the match ratio was 1:1. Psychological testing software named DMDX was used to measure inhibitory ability of the subjects. The differences of reaction time in number Stroop tasks and differences of accuracy in incongruent condition of color-word Stroop tasks and object inhibition tasks between DD-only children and their controls reached significant levels (P<0.05), and the differences of reaction time in number Stroop tasks between dyscalculic and normal children did not disappear after controlling the non-executive components. The difference of accuracy in color-word incongruent tasks between children with DD&RD and normal children reached significant levels (P<0.05). Children with DD-only confronted with general inhibitory deficits, while children with DD&RD confronted with word inhibitory deficits only.

Rapid Communication: MiR-92a as a housekeeping gene for analysis of bovine mastitis-related microRNA in milk.

PubMed

Lai, Y C; Fujikawa, T; Ando, T; Kitahara, G; Koiwa, M; Kubota, C; Miura, N

2017-06-01

Our aim was to identify a suitable microRNA housekeeping gene for real-time PCR analysis of bovine mastitis-related microRNA in milk. We identified , , and as housekeeping gene candidates on the basis of previous Solexa sequencing results. Threshold cycle (CT) values for , , and did not differ between milk from control cows and milk from mastitis-affected cows. NormFinder software identified as the most stable single housekeeping gene. We evaluated the suitability of the housekeeping gene candidates by using them to assess expression levels of the inflammation-related gene . Regardless of the housekeeping gene candidates used for normalization, relative expression levels of were significantly higher in mastitis-affected samples than in control samples. However, of all the housekeeping genes and gene combinations investigated, normalization with alone generated the difference in relative expression between mastitis-affected and control samples with the highest significance. These results suggest that is suitable for use as a housekeeping gene for analysis of bovine mastitis-related microRNA in milk.

Experimental Model for Successful Liver Cell Therapy by Lenti TTR-YapERT2 Transduced Hepatocytes with Tamoxifen Control of Yap Subcellular Location

PubMed Central

Yovchev, Mladen; Jaber, Fadi L.; Lu, Zhonglei; Patel, Shachi; Locker, Joseph; Rogler, Leslie E.; Murray, John W.; Sudol, Marius; Dabeva, Mariana D.; Zhu, Liang; Shafritz, David A.

2016-01-01

Liver repopulation by transplanted hepatocytes has not been achieved previously in a normal liver microenvironment. Here we report that adult rat hepatocytes transduced ex vivo with a lentivirus expressing a human YapERT2 fusion protein (hYapERT2) under control of the hepatocyte-specific transthyretin (TTR) promoter repopulate normal rat liver in a tamoxifen-dependent manner. Transplanted hepatocytes expand very slowly but progressively to produce 10% repopulation at 6 months, showing clusters of mature hepatocytes that are fully integrated into hepatic parenchyma, with no evidence for dedifferentiation, dysplasia or malignant transformation. Thus, we have developed the first vector designed to regulate the growth control properties of Yap that renders it capable of producing effective cell therapy. The level of liver repopulation achieved has significant translational implications, as it is 2-3x the level required to cure many monogenic disorders of liver function that have no underlying hepatic pathology and is potentially applicable to diseases of other tissues and organs. PMID:26763940

Serum Lipase as Clinical Laboratory Index for Chronic Renal Failure Diagnosis.

PubMed

Zhu, Ying; Dong, Jing; Wang, Ping; Huang, Huifang; Jin, Xiaohua; Zhou, Jingou; Shi, Jingfang; Gu, Guohao; Chen, Jun; Xu, Jun; Song, Yanhui

2016-07-01

Measuring the level of serum lipase has been used for the clinical diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Reports showed that the serum lipase level increased in patients of clinical renal failure. In this study, we aimed to measure the change of serum lipase levels in chronic kidney diseases and determine whether it could serve as a clinical laboratory index for clinical renal failure diagnosis. Materials: The OLYMPUS AU5400 automatic biochemical analyzer was used to determine the serum levels of lipase and creatinine. The study included 120 cases in the clinical renal failure group, 76 cases in the nephrotic syndrome group, 81 cases in the chronic nephritis group, and 80 healthy controls from our hospital volunteers in the same period. We then compared the lipase levels and conducted statistical analyses among these groups. The serum lipase levels were 15.3 U/L, 79.8 U/L, 45.1 U/L, and 51.0 U/L in the normal control, clinical renal failure, nephrotic syndrome, and chronic nephritis groups, respectively. The lipase levels in the groups with diseases were significantly different compared with that of the normal control group (p < 0.01). The lipase level of the clinical renal failure group was significantly higher than that of the nephrotic syndrome group and chronic nephritis group (p < 0.01). However, no statistically significant difference between the nephrotic syndrome and chronic nephritis group (p > 0.05) was observed. Moreover, an association of the serum lipase with disease progression was observed in the study. Serum lipase is an effective serological index which can reflect the clinical changes in the clinical renal failure and tends to increase through the progression of renal dysfunction.

Adrenal cortical response to stress at Three Mile Island.

PubMed

Schaeffer, M A; Baum, A

1984-01-01

The present study examined the relationship between biochemical, psychologic, and behavioral components of chronic stress associated with living near the damaged nuclear power plant at Three Mile Island (TMI). Relative to control subjects, TMI subjects had higher levels of urinary cortisol, which correlated significantly with urinary catecholamines, self-report of physical and mental symptoms, and decrements in task performance. Further, it was found that males had higher urinary cortisol levels than females at TMI, while at the control sites, levels of cortisol were comparable between males and females. Finally, no significant relationship between coping style and urinary cortisol was detected. Levels of stress response among TMI are residents, though significantly greater than control subjects, were within normal ranges and thus should be considered subclinical in intensity. Their persistence over 17 months, however, suggests some cause for concern.

Evaluation of passive and active vibration control mechanisms in a microgravity environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ellison, J.; Ahmadi, G.; Grodsinsky, C.

1993-01-01

The behavior of equipment and their light secondary attachments in large space structures under orbital excitation is studied. The equipment is modeled as a shear beam and its secondary attachment is treated as a single-degree-of-freedom lumped mass system. Peak responses of the equipment and its secondary system for a variety of vibration control mechanisms are evaluated. A novel active friction control mechanism, by varying the normal force, is suggested. The device uses a magnetic field control to minimize the stick condition, thereby reducing the overall structural response. The results show that the use of the passive vibration control devices could reduce the peak equipment responses to a certain extent. However, major reduction of vibration levels could be achieved only by the use of active devices. Using active control of the interface normal force, the peak responses of the equipment and its attachment are reduced by a factor of 10 over the fixed-base equipment response.

Metabolic effects of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents

PubMed Central

Han, Yejin; Lee, Hye-Jin; Oh, Jee-Young; Sung, Yeon-Ah

2015-01-01

Purpose Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenic anovulation in women of reproductive age. We investigated the metabolic effects of lean and overweight adolescents with PCOS. Methods Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters were evaluated in 49 adolescents with PCOS and 40 age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. We further divided both PCOS and control groups into those having BMI within the normal range of less than 85th percentile and those being overweight and obese with a BMI greater than 85th percentile. Results Hemoglobin, gamma-glutamyl transferase (r-GT), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and 2-hour postglucose load plasma insulin levels were significantly elevated in the lean PCOS group than in the lean control group. In the overweight/obese PCOS group, hemoglobin and r-GT levels were significantly elevated than in the overweight/obese control group. In the normal weight group, none of the subjects had metabolic syndrome according to the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria, but the incidence of metabolic syndrome in the overweight/obese PCOS group was 8.3% and that in the overweight/obese control group was 6.7%. Conclusion PCOS in adolescents causes metabolic abnormalities, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis of PCOS in oligomenorrheic adolescents. PMID:26512349

Control of standing balance while using constructions stilts: comparison of expert and novice users.

PubMed

Noble, Jeremy W; Singer, Jonathan C; Prentice, Stephen D

2016-01-01

This study examined the control of standing balance while wearing construction stilts. Motion capture data were collected from nine expert stilt users and nine novices. Three standing conditions were analysed: ground, 60 cm stilts and an elevated platform. Each task was also performed with the head extended as a vestibular perturbation. Both expert and novice groups exhibited lower displacement of the whole body centre of mass and centre of pressure on construction stilts. Differences between the groups were only noted in the elevated condition with no stilts, where the expert group had lower levels of medial-lateral displacement of the centre of pressure. The postural manipulation revealed that the expert group had superior balance to the novice group. Conditions where stilts were worn showed lower levels of correspondence to the inverted pendulum model. Under normal conditions, both expert and novice groups were able to control their balance while wearing construction stilts. This work investigated the effects of experience on the control of balance while using construction stilts. Under normal conditions, expert and novice stilt users were able to control their balance while wearing construction stilts. Differences between the expert and novice users were revealed when the balance task was made more difficult, with the experts showing superior balance in these situations.

[Changes in levels of chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and its subunit alpha and beta in pregnancy complicated by diabetes (GDM)].

PubMed

Olszewski, J; Szczurowicz, A; Wójcikowski, C

1995-02-01

The aim of the study was estimation of endocrinological function of placenta in pregnancy complicated by GDM. The study were performed on a group 13 women with GDM and 14 women in normal pregnancy. All women with GDM were treat by diet and intensive insulinotherapy with self monitoring levels of glucose. In women with GDM level of fructosamine and HbAlc were significant higher but in normal range. In 28 and 36 week of pregnancy were determined levels of hCG, alpha hCG, beta hCG, in serum. Level of hCG in control group and in women with GDM were respectively 97.29 U/ml vs. 29.29 U/ml, p < 0.01 in 28 week of pregnancy and 77.23 U/ml vs. 37.93 U/ml, p < 0.05 in 36 week. Level of alpha hCG was lower and beta hCG was higher in group with GDM.

Distribution pattern of urine albumin creatinine ratio and the prevalence of high-normal levels in untreated asymptomatic non-diabetic hypertensive patients.

PubMed

Ohmaru, Natsuki; Nakatsu, Takaaki; Izumi, Reishi; Mashima, Keiichi; Toki, Misako; Kobayashi, Asako; Ogawa, Hiroko; Hirohata, Satoshi; Ikeda, Satoru; Kusachi, Shozo

2011-01-01

Even high-normal albuminuria is reportedly associated with cardiovascular events. We determined the urine albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) in spot urine samples and analyzed the UACR distribution and the prevalence of high-normal levels. The UACR was determined using immunoturbidimetry in 332 untreated asymptomatic non-diabetic Japanese patients with hypertension and in 69 control subjects. The microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria levels were defined as a UCAR ≥30 and <300 µg/mg·creatinine and a UCAR ≥300 µg/mg·creatinine, respectively. The distribution patterns showed a highly skewed distribution for the lower levels, and a common logarithmic transformation produced a close fit to a Gaussian distribution with median, 25th and 75th percentile values of 22.6, 13.5 and 48.2 µg/mg·creatinine, respectively. When a high-normal UACR was set at >20 to <30 µg/mg·creatinine, 19.9% (66/332) of the hypertensive patients exhibited a high-normal UACR. Microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria were observed in 36.1% (120/336) and 2.1% (7/332) of the patients, respectively. UACR was significantly correlated with the systolic and diastolic blood pressures and the pulse pressure. A stepwise multivariate analysis revealed that these pressures as well as age were independent factors that increased UACR. The UACR distribution exhibited a highly skewed pattern, with approximately 60% of untreated, non-diabetic hypertensive patients exhibiting a high-normal or larger UACR. Both hypertension and age are independent risk factors that increase the UACR. The present study indicated that a considerable percentage of patients require anti-hypertensive drugs with antiproteinuric effects at the start of treatment.

High load of Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA detected in the normal skin of Japanese patients with Merkel cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Hashida, Yumiko; Nakajima, Kimiko; Nakajima, Hideki; Shiga, Takeo; Tanaka, Moe; Murakami, Masanao; Matsuzaki, Shigenobu; Naganuma, Seiji; Kuroda, Naoki; Seki, Yasutaka; Katano, Harutaka; Sano, Shigetoshi; Daibata, Masanori

2016-09-01

Although Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) has the potential to cause Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), it is also found in the normal skin of healthy individuals. However, the mechanism for transformation of MCPyV to an oncogenic form is unknown. To investigate the levels of MCPyV infection in the normal skin patients with MCC compared with those in a control cohort. We studied a total of six Japanese patients with cutaneous MCC. Sun-exposed and sun-unexposed skin swabs were obtained and analyzed for MCPyV loads using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. At first, we found a patient with MCC carrying an extremely high load of MCPyV DNA in normal skin. This unique case prompted us to further explore the levels of MCPyV as skin microbiota in patients with MCC. We showed that MCPyV DNA levels were significantly higher in swabs obtained from normal skin samples of six patients with MCC compared with those from 30 age-matched healthy individuals and 19 patients with other cutaneous cancers. Whereas MCPyV strains obtained from the normal skin of patients with MCC had gene sequences without structural alterations, sequences of the tumor-derived strains showed truncating mutations or deletions. Although the number of patients with MCC studied was small, our findings suggest that MCC may occur with a background of high MCPyV load in the skin, and are expected to stimulate further studies on whether such skin virome levels could be one of predictive markers for the development of MCC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Regional cerebral blood flow and anxiety: a correlation study in neurologically normal patients

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rodriguez, G.; Cogorno, P.; Gris, A.

1989-06-01

Regional CBF (rCBF) was evaluated by the /sup 133/Xe inhalation method in 60 neurologically normal patients (30 men and 30 women) and hemispheric and regional values were correlated with anxiety measurements collected by a self-rating questionnaire before and after the examination. Statistically significant negative correlations between rCBF and anxiety measures were found. rCBF reduction for high anxiety levels is in line with results previously reported by others and could be related to lower performance levels for moderately high anxiety scores as those reported in the present population. This could perhaps be explained by rearrangement of flow from cortical zones tomore » deeper areas of the brain, classically known to be implicated in the control of emotions. However, these results should be interpreted cautiously, since they were obtained in patients and not in normal subjects.« less

Serum HSP70

PubMed Central

Dutta, Sudhir K.; Girotra, Mohit; Singla, Montish; Dutta, Anand; Stephen, F. Otis; Nair, Padmanabhan P.; Merchant, Nipun B.

2014-01-01

Objectives Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) is overexpressed in human pancreatic cancer cell lines. To determine if serum HSP70 levels are elevated in patients with pancreatic cancer and can function as a biomarker for early detection of pancreatic cancer. Methods Study subjects were divided into 3 groups: histologically proven pancreatic cancer (PC; n = 23), chronic pancreatitis (CP; n = 12), and matched normal control subjects (C; n = 10). Serum HSP70 levels were determined using a novel immunoelectrophoresis method developed and validated by the authors. Significance of difference between the groups was analyzed with analysis of variance (ANOVA). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to discriminate patients with pancreatic cancer from normal controls. Results The mean ± SE serum HSP70 levels in the PC, CP, and C groups were 1.68 ± 0.083 ng/mL, 0.40 ± 0.057 ng/mL, and 0.04 ng/mL, respectively. Serum HSP70 levels in the PC group were significantly higher compared with either the CP or C groups (P < 0.01). The sensitivity and specificity of elevated serum HSP70 in the PC group was 74% and 90%, respectively. Conclusions Serum HSP70 levels are significantly increased in patients with pancreatic cancer and may be useful as an additional biomarker for the detection of pancreatic cancer. PMID:22158074

3D geometries of normal faults in a brittle-ductile sedimentary cover: Analogue modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasquez, Lina; Nalpas, Thierry; Ballard, Jean-François; Le Carlier De Veslud, Christian; Simon, Brendan; Dauteuil, Olivier; Bernard, Xavier Du

2018-07-01

It is well known that ductile layers play a major role in the style and location of deformation. However, at the scale of a single normal fault, the impact of rheological layering is poorly constrained and badly understood, and there is a lack of information regarding the influence of several décollement levels within a sedimentary cover on the single fault geometry under purely extensive deformation. We present small-scale experiments that were built with interbedded layers of brittle and ductile materials and with minimum initial constraints (only a velocity discontinuity at the base of the experiment) on the normal fault geometry in order to investigate the influence of controlled parameters such as extension velocity, rate of extension, ductile thickness and varying stratigraphy on the 3D fault geometry. These experiments showed a broad-spectrum of tectonic features such as grabens, ramp-flat-ramp normal faults and reverse faults. Forced folds are associated with fault flats that develop in the décollement levels (refraction of the fault angle). One of the key points is that the normal fault geometry displays large variations in both direction and dip, despite the imposed homogeneous extension. This result is exclusively related to the presence of décollement levels, and is not associated with any global/regional variation in extension direction and/or inversion.

A Preliminary Quantitative Comparison of Vibratory Amplitude Using Rigid and Flexible Stroboscopic Assessment.

PubMed

Hosbach-Cannon, Carly J; Lowell, Soren Y; Kelley, Richard T; Colton, Raymond H

2016-07-01

The purpose of this study was to establish preliminary, quantitative data on amplitude of vibration during stroboscopic assessment in healthy speakers with normal voice characteristics. Amplitude of vocal fold vibration is a core physiological parameter used in diagnosing voice disorders, yet quantitative data are lacking to guide the determination of what constitutes normal vibratory amplitude. Eleven participants were assessed during sustained vowel production using rigid and flexible endoscopy with stroboscopy. Still images were extracted from digital recordings of a sustained /i/ produced at a comfortable pitch and loudness, with F0 controlled so that levels were within ±15% of each participant's comfortable mean level as determined from connected speech. Glottal width (GW), true vocal fold (TVF) length, and TVF width were measured from still frames representing the maximum open phase of the vibratory cycle. To control for anatomic and magnification differences across participants, GW was normalized to TVF length. GW as a ratio of TVF width was also computed for comparison with prior studies. Mean values and standard deviations were computed for the normalized measures. Paired t tests showed no significant differences between rigid and flexible endoscopy methods. Interrater and intrarater reliability values for raw measurements were found to be high (0.89-0.99). These preliminary quantitative data may be helpful in determining normality or abnormality of vocal fold vibration. Results indicate that quantified amplitude of vibration is similar between endoscopic methods, a clinically relevant finding for individuals performing and interpreting stroboscopic assessments. Copyright © 2016 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

USAF Bioenvironmental Noise Data Handbook. Volume 165: MC-1 heater, duct type, portable

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rau, T. H.

1982-06-01

The MC-1 heater is a gasoline-motor driven, portable ground heater used primarily for cockpit and cabin temperature control. This report provides measured and extrapolated data defining the bioacoustic environments produced by this unit operating outdoors on a concrete apron at normal rated conditions. Near-field data are reported for 37 locations in a wide variety of physical and psychoacoustic measures: overall and band sound pressure levels, C-weighted and A-weighted sound levels, preferred speech interference level, perceived noise levels, and limiting times for total daily exposure of personnel with and without standard Air Force ear protectors. Far-field data measured at 36 locations are normalized to standard meteorological conditions and extrapolated from 10 1600 meters to derive sets of equal-value contours for these same seven acoustic measures as functions of angle and distance from the source.

Defective neutrophil chemotaxis in juvenile periodontitis.

PubMed Central

Clark, R A; Page, R C; Wilde, G

1977-01-01

Neutrophil chemotaxis was evaluated in nine patients with juvenile periodontitis, with normal subjects and patients with the adult form of periodontitis as controls. Defective chemotactic responses were observed in neutrophils from seven of nine juvenile patients, and a reduced level of complement-derived chemotactic activity was demonstrated in serum from four patients. These determinations were normal in all the patients with adult periodontitis. Serum from five of the juvenile patients contained a heat-stable, non-dialyzable factor that markedly inhibited the chemotaxis of normal neutrophils. Thus the characteristic tissue destruction seen in juvenile periodontitis may be, at least in part, a consequence of a failure of host defense mechanisms. PMID:591063

Combination of Autoantibody Signature with PSA Level Enables a Highly Accurate Blood-Based Differentiation of Prostate Cancer Patients from Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

PubMed

Leidinger, Petra; Keller, Andreas; Milchram, Lisa; Harz, Christian; Hart, Martin; Werth, Angelika; Lenhof, Hans-Peter; Weinhäusel, Andreas; Keck, Bastian; Wullich, Bernd; Ludwig, Nicole; Meese, Eckart

2015-01-01

Although an increased level of the prostate-specific antigen can be an indication for prostate cancer, other reasons often lead to a high rate of false positive results. Therefore, an additional serological screening of autoantibodies in patients' sera could improve the detection of prostate cancer. We performed protein macroarray screening with sera from 49 prostate cancer patients, 70 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and 28 healthy controls and compared the autoimmune response in those groups. We were able to distinguish prostate cancer patients from normal controls with an accuracy of 83.2%, patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia from normal controls with an accuracy of 86.0% and prostate cancer patients from patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia with an accuracy of 70.3%. Combining seroreactivity pattern with a PSA level of higher than 4.0 ng/ml this classification could be improved to an accuracy of 84.1%. For selected proteins we were able to confirm the differential expression by using luminex on 84 samples. We provide a minimally invasive serological method to reduce false positive results in detection of prostate cancer and according to PSA screening to distinguish men with prostate cancer from men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Effects of febuxostat on insulin resistance and expression of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in patients with primary gout.

PubMed

Meng, Juan; Li, Yanchun; Yuan, Xiaoxu; Lu, Yuewu

2017-02-01

We aimed to investigate the effects of febuxostat on IR and the expression of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with primary gout. Forty-two cases of primary gout patients without uric acid-lowering therapy were included in this study. After a physical examination, 20 age- and sex-matched patients were included as normal controls. The levels of fasting insulin (INS), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and hs-CRP were determined. IR was assessed using the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Gout patients had higher levels of UA, INS, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP than normal controls (P < 0.05). After 4-, 12-, and 24-week febuxostat treatments, UA and hs-CRP concentrations were significantly lower than baseline (P < 0.05). INS and HOM-IR decreased slightly after a 4-week treatment with febuxostat but declined significantly after 12 and 24 weeks of treatment. Importantly, hs-CRP values positively correlated with those of HOMA-IR (r = 0.353, P = 0.018) and INS (r = 0.426, P = 0.034). Our findings confirm that IR exists in gout patients and implicate that febuxostat can effectively control the level of serum UA and increase insulin sensitivity in primary gout patients.

Effect of atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide in rats with adenine-induced chronic renal failure.

PubMed

Yang, C; Liu, C; Zhou, Q; Xie, Y C; Qiu, X M; Feng, X

2015-01-01

The aim of the study was to elucidate the therapeutic effects of Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide on adenine-induced chronic renal failure in rats. Fifty male Sprague Dawley rats were selected and randomly divided in to 5 groups (n=10 rats per group): The normal control group, the chronic renal failure pathological control group, the dexamethasone treatment group and two Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide treatment groups, treated with two different concentrations of the polysaccharide, the Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide high group and the Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide low group. All the rats, except those in the normal control group were fed adenine-enriched diets, containing 10 g adenine per kg food for 3 weeks. After being fed with adenine, the dexamethasone treatment group, Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide high group and Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide low group rats were administered the drug orally for 2 weeks. On day 35, the kidney coefficient of the rats and the serum levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, total protein and hemalbumin were determined. Subsequent to experimentation on a model of chronic renal failure in rats, the preparation was proven to be able to reduce serum levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and hemalbumin levels (P<0.05) and improve renal function. Atracylodes rhizome polysaccharide had reversed the majority of the indices of chronic renal failure in rats.

Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone Levels in Ground Based Studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, B. O.

1972-01-01

Baseline values of immunoreactive ACTH were established in the normal healthy adult. Normal levels of ACTH secretion were determined for both the male and the female in circulating plasma and serum. The data obtained in these studies are particularly significant in that the sampling was carefully controlled; only healthy employed individuals of both sexes were tested in a routine work situation that would not be considered conducive to stress. It has been found that alterations in the classically described circadian rhythm of ACTH secretion can occur when activities (such as work/rest cycles) are imposed on the individual studied. These changes can be demonstrated even when there is no appreciable change noted in the rhythm of hydrocortisone secretion.

[Expression and significance of tumor necrosis factor alpha, matrix metalloproteinase 2 and collagen in skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats].

PubMed

Wang, X H; Mao, T T; Pan, Y Y; Xie, H H; Zhang, H Y; Xiao, J; Jiang, L P

2016-03-01

To observe the expressions of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and collagen in local skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats, and to explore the possible mechanism of the pathogenesis of pressure ulcer. Forty male SD rats were divided into normal control group, 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group according to the random number table, with 8 rats in each group. The rats in normal control group did not receive any treatment, whereas the rats in the latter 4 groups were established the deep tissue injury model (3 d compression group) and pressure ulcer model (the other 3 groups) on the gracilis muscle on both hind limbs using a way of cycle compression of ischemia-reperfusion magnet. The rats in 3 d compression group received only three cycles of compression, while the compressed skin of the rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were cut through and received pressure to 5, 7 and 9 cycles after three cycles of compression, respectively. The rats in 3 d compression group were sacrificed immediately after receiving compression for 3 d (the rats in normal control group were sacrificed at the same time), and the rats in the other 3 groups were respectively sacrificed after receiving compression for 5, 7, and 9 d, and the skin tissue on the central part of gracilis muscle on both hind limbs were harvested. The morphology of the skin tissue was observed with HE staining. The expression of collagen fiber was observed with Masson staining. The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ and MMP-2 were detected by immunohistochemical method. The expressions of TNF-α and phosphorylated NF kappa B (NF-κB) were determined by Western blotting. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and LSD test. (1) In normal control group, the skin tissue of rats was stratified squamous epithelium, with the clear skin structure, and there was no obvious infiltration of inflammatory cells. In 3 d compression group, the skin layers of rats were clear, with quite a few fibroblasts, and the inflammatory cells began to infiltrate. In 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group, the epidermis of rats thickened, with the number of fibroblasts reduced, and the infiltration of inflammatory cells enhanced with the compressed time prolonging. (2) In normal control group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged in order, with rich content. In 3 d compression group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged orderly, with high expression level, which was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). In 5 d compression group and 7 d compression group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged in disorder, with the expression level gradually reduced, which were significantly lower than that in normal control group (with P values below 0.01). In 9 d compression group, the expression of collagen fiber in skin tissue of rats was a little higher than that in 7 d compression group, but it was still significantly lower than that in normal control group (P<0.01). (3) The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in normal control group, 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were respectively 11.0±2.8, 9.0±1.7, 8.3±2.8, 5.1±1.8, and 5.4±1.2. The expression of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were significantly lower than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The expression of MMP-2 in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). The expressions of MMP-2 in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were significantly higher than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). (4) The expression of TNF-α in skin tissue of rats in normal control group was 0.48±0.11, and the expressions of TNF-α in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were respectively 0.84±0.08, 1.13±0.19, 1.34±0.16, and 1.52±0.23, which were all significantly higher than that in normal control group (with P values below 0.01). The expressions of phosphorylated NF-κB in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group and 9 d compression group were similar to that in normal control group (with P values above 0.05), and the expressions of phosphorylated NF-κB in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group and 7 d compression group were significantly higher than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The high expression of MMP-2 and reduction of collagen induced by inflammatory reaction mediated by the high expression of TNF-α in local skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats may be one of the important reasons for the formation of pressure ulcer.

Toxicity evaluation of hydrophilic CdTe quantum dots and CdTe@SiO2 nanoparticles in mice.

PubMed

Sadaf, Asma; Zeshan, Basit; Wang, Zhuyuan; Zhang, Ruohu; Xu, Shuhong; Wang, Chunlei; Cui, Yiping

2012-11-01

Quantum dots have drawn tremendous attention in the field of in vitro and small animal in vivo fluorescence imaging in the last decade. However, concerns over the cytotoxicity of their heavy metal constituents have limited their use in clinical applications. Here, we report our comparative studies on the toxicities of quantum dots (QDs) and silica coated CdTe nanoparticles (NPs) to mice after intravenous injection. The blood cells analysis showed significant increased level of white blood cells (WBCs) in groups treated with CdTe QDs as compared to the control while red blood cells (RBCs) and platelet counts were normal in treated as well as control groups. The concentration of biochemical markers of hepatic damage, alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were in the normal range in all the groups. However, renal function analyses of mice showed significantly increased in the concentration of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CREA) in mice treated with CdTe QDs while remained within normal ranges in both the CdTe@SiO2 NPs and control group. The results of histopathology showed that the CdTe QDs caused mild nephrotoxicity while other organs were normal and no abnormalities were detected in control and CdTe@SiO2 treated group. These findings suggest that the nephrotoxicity could be minimized by silica coating which would be useful for many biomedical applications.

Experimental test results of a generalized parameter fuel control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Batterton, P. G.; Gold, H.

1973-01-01

Considerable interest has been generated recently in low cost jet propulsion systems. One of the more complicated components of jet engines is the fuel control. Results of an effort to develop a simpler hydromechanical fuel control are presented. This prototype fuel control was installed on a J85-GE-13 jet engine. Results show that the fuel control provided satisfactory engine performance at sea level static conditions over its normal nonafterburning operating range, including startup. Results of both bench and engine tests are presented; the difficulties encountered are described.

High serum bicarbonate level within the normal range prevents the progression of chronic kidney disease in elderly chronic kidney disease patients

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Metabolic acidosis leads to chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. The guidelines recommend a lower limit of serum bicarbonate level, but no upper limit. For serum bicarbonate level to be clinically useful as a therapeutic target marker, it is necessary to investigate the target serum bicarbonate level within the normal range to prevent CKD progression. Methods One hundred and thirteen elderly CKD patients, whose serum bicarbonate level was controlled within the normal range, were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study in Ibaraki, Japan. Outcome was defined as a decrease of 25% or more in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or starting dialysis. We used Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for patients’ characteristics to examine the association between serum bicarbonate level and the outcome. Results Female patients were 36.3%: average age (SD), 70.4 (6.6) years; eGFR, 25.7 (13.6) ml/min/1.73 m2; serum bicarbonate level, 27.4 (3.2) mEq/l. Patients with the lowest quartile of serum bicarbonate levels [23.4 (1.8) mEq/l] showed a high risk of CKD progression compared with patients with high serum bicarbonate levels [28.8 (2.3) mEq/l]: adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 3.511 (95% CI, 1.342-9.186). A 1 mEq/l increase in serum bicarbonate level was associated with a low risk of CKD progression: adjusted HR, 0.791 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.684-0.914]. Conclusions In elderly CKD patients, our findings suggest that serum bicarbonate level is independently associated with CKD progression, and that a high serum bicarbonate level is associated with a low risk of CKD progression. A high target serum bicarbonate level within the normal range may be effective for preventing CKD progression. PMID:23298330

Impact of Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunting for Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus on the Amyloid Cascade

PubMed Central

Moriya, Masao; Miyajima, Masakazu; Nakajima, Madoka; Ogino, Ikuko; Arai, Hajime

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine whether the improvement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics by CSF shunting, can suppress the oligomerization of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ), by measuring the levels of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-related proteins in the CSF before and after lumboperitoneal shunting. Lumbar CSF from 32 patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) (samples were obtained before and 1 year after shunting), 15 patients with AD, and 12 normal controls was analyzed for AD-related proteins and APLP1-derived Aβ-like peptides (APL1β) (a surrogate marker for Aβ). We found that before shunting, individuals with iNPH had significantly lower levels of soluble amyloid precursor proteins (sAPP) and Aβ38 compared to patients with AD and normal controls. We divided the patients with iNPH into patients with favorable (improvement ≥ 1 on the modified Rankin Scale) and unfavorable (no improvement on the modified Rankin Scale) outcomes. Compared to the unfavorable outcome group, the favorable outcome group showed significant increases in Aβ38, 40, 42, and phosphorylated-tau levels after shunting. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the levels of APL1β25, 27, and 28 after shunting. After shunting, we observed positive correlations between sAPPα and sAPPβ, Aβ38 and 42, and APL1β25 and 28, with shifts from sAPPβ to sAPPα, from APL1β28 to 25, and from Aβ42 to 38 in all patients with iNPH. Our results suggest that Aβ production remained unchanged by the shunt procedure because the levels of sAPP and APL1β were unchanged. Moreover, the shift of Aβ from oligomer to monomer due to the shift of Aβ42 (easy to aggregate) to Aβ38 (difficult to aggregate), and the improvement of interstitial-fluid flow, could lead to increased Aβ levels in the CSF. Our findings suggest that the shunting procedure can delay intracerebral deposition of Aβ in patients with iNPH. PMID:25821958

The hepcidin gene promoter nc.-1010C > T; -582A > G haplotype modulates serum ferritin in individuals carrying the common H63D mutation in HFE gene.

PubMed

Silva, Bruno; Pita, Lina; Gomes, Susana; Gonçalves, João; Faustino, Paula

2014-12-01

Hereditary hemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by severe iron overload. It is usually associated with homozygosity for the HFE gene mutation c.845G > A; p.C282Y. However, in some cases, another HFE mutation (c.187C > G; p.H63D) seems to be associated with the disease. Its penetrance is very low, suggesting the possibility of other iron genetic modulators being involved. In this work, we have screened for HAMP promoter polymorphisms in 409 individuals presenting normal or increased serum ferritin levels together with normal or H63D-mutated HFE genotypes. Our results show that the hepcidin gene promoter TG haplotype, originated by linkage of the nc.-1010C > T and nc.-582A > G polymorphisms, is more frequent in the HFE_H63D individuals presenting serum ferritin levels higher than 300 μg/L than in those presenting the HFE_H63D mutation but with normal serum ferritin levels or in the normal control group.Moreover, it was observed that the TG haplotype was associated to increased serum ferritin levels in the overall pool of HFE_H63D individuals. Thus, our data suggest that screening for these polymorphisms could be of interest in order to explain the phenotype. However, this genetic condition seems to have no clinical significance.

[Endocrine differences between patients with luteal phase deficiency and inadequate endometrial response].

PubMed

Xu, M; Zhang, Z; Jiang, S

1997-03-01

To study the difference of endocrine characteristics between patients with luteal phase deficiency (LPD) and inadequate endometrial response (IER). Serum estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and prolactin levels were determined by radioimmunoassay in cycles of LPD, IER and normal controls. Contents of endometrial cytoplasmic estradiol receptors (ERc), nuclear estradiol receptors (ERn), cytoplasmic progesterone receptors (PRc) and nuclear progesterone receptors (PRn) were determined by dextran coated charcoal assay in the same cycle. Serum E2 and P levels in the luteal phase of patients with LPD were significantly lower than those of normal group (P < 0.001), no significant difference of endometrial estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor contents was found between the two groups (P > 0.1). Serum E2 levels in both follicular and luteal phase of IER patients were significantly lower than those of normal groups (P < 0.001), but serum P levels in luteal phase of the two groups showed no difference (P > 0.1). The contents of ERc and PRn in proliferative phase and PRc contents throughout the menstrual cycle were also lower than those of the normal group (P < 0.001, < 0.001 and < 0.05 respectively). These results indicate that LPD and IER are two distinct entities in terms of endocrine characteristics. To distinguish underdeveloped endometrium caused by either LPD or IER is the key to choose appropriate treatment.

Carbohydrate availability of arroz caldo with lambda-carrageenan.

PubMed

Dumelod, B D; Ramirez, R P; Tiangson, C L; Barrios, E B; Panlasigui, L N

1999-07-01

Total available carbohydrate (sugars and starches) and total dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble) make up the total carbohydrate content of a food. Soluble fiber decreases the availability of glucose by delaying its absorption in the proximal small intestine, thus reducing the postprandial glucose levels (Jenkins et al., 1978; Schneeman, 1987a). Carrageenan, a seaweed extract, is a good source of soluble fiber (Montaño et al., 1985). This study aimed to determine the effect of carrageenan incorporation into arroz caldo on carbohydrate availability by monitoring the postprandial blood glucose levels of normal subjects. Control and experimental arroz caldo samples were prepared and subjected to proximate analysis and feeding studies. The total dietary fiber (TDF) content of the experimental (2.03%) was about thrice that of the control (0.68%). Using randomized crossover design, preweighed 55 g available carbohydrate serving portions of control and experimental arroz caldo samples, with 3.45 and 14.84 g TDF, respectively, were fed to ten fasting normal subjects then their postprandial blood glucose levels were determined at 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 min intervals. Results of the short-term in vivo study showed that the mean postprandial glycaemic responses of subjects after consuming the experimental sample were significantly lower than the levels after consuming the control at 15, 45, and 90 min (P < or = 0.05) and at 30 min (P < or = 0.001). Likewise, the mean glucose area under the curve was significantly lower (P < or = 0.01) after consumption of experimental (69.22 +/- 32.94) arroz caldo than control (147.29 +/- 53.34). The hypoglycaemic effect of carrageenan may prove useful in the prevention and management of metabolic conditions such as diabetes.

Axial and radial diffusivity in preterm infants who have diffuse white matter changes on magnetic resonance imaging at term-equivalent age.

PubMed

Counsell, Serena J; Shen, Yuji; Boardman, James P; Larkman, David J; Kapellou, Olga; Ward, Philip; Allsop, Joanna M; Cowan, Frances M; Hajnal, Joseph V; Edwards, A David; Rutherford, Mary A

2006-02-01

Diffuse excessive high signal intensity (DEHSI) is observed in the majority of preterm infants at term-equivalent age on conventional MRI, and diffusion-weighted imaging has shown that apparent diffusion coefficient values are elevated in the white matter (WM) in DEHSI. Our aim was to obtain diffusion tensor imaging on preterm infants at term-equivalent age and term control infants to test the hypothesis that radial diffusivity was significantly different in the WM in preterm infants with DEHSI compared with both preterm infants with normal-appearing WM on conventional MRI and term control infants. Diffusion tensor imaging was obtained on 38 preterm infants at term-equivalent age and 8 term control infants. Values for axial (lambda1) and radial [(lambda2 + lambda3)/2] diffusivity were calculated in regions of interest positioned in the central WM at the level of the centrum semiovale, frontal WM, posterior periventricular WM, occipital WM, anterior and posterior portions of the posterior limb of the internal capsule, and the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum. Radial diffusivity was elevated significantly in the posterior portion of the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the splenium of the corpus callosum, and both axial and radial diffusivity were elevated significantly in the WM at the level of the centrum semiovale, the frontal WM, the periventricular WM, and the occipital WM in preterm infants with DEHSI compared with preterm infants with normal-appearing WM and term control infants. There was no significant difference between term control infants and preterm infants with normal-appearing WM in any region studied. These findings suggest that DEHSI represents an oligodendrocyte and/or axonal abnormality that is widespread throughout the cerebral WM.

Luteal phase hyperprolactinemia.

PubMed

Falk, R J; Anderson, L

1994-01-01

To determine the incidence of both isolated and repetitive prolactin elevations in the luteal phase of otherwise normoprolactinemic women. To see if sporadic luteal-phase hyperprolactinemia is associated with progesterone deficiency, and to explore a possible physiological basis for sporadic hyperprolactinemia by TRH challenge. Hospital-based reproductive endocrinology/infertility service. Prospective measurement of luteal phase serum progesterone and prolactin in normoprolactinemic ovulatory women. TRH stimulation testing in volunteers with repetitive luteal phase hyperprolactinemia and normoprolactinemic controls. 133 sequentially selected infertile, ovulatory women with normal prolactin levels in the proliferative phase of the cycle. Measurement of serum progesterone and prolactin during the luteal phase, based on the day of the LH surge. TRH testing in the midluteal phase of the cycle in patients with two or more luteal phase prolactin elevations, and in five normoprolactinemic volunteers in both the preovulatory and midluteal phase. Of 133 subjects, 85 (64%) had no prolactin level exceeding 20 ng/mL in the luteal phase. Thirty-three (25%) had two or more elevated levels, and were considered to have repetitive luteal phase hyperprolactinemia (LPH). TRH testing in control subjects resulted in a greater prolactin response in the preovulatory phase. The group with LPH demonstrated an initial elevation of prolactin greater than that of the normoprolactinemic controls, but a subsequent drop to levels lower than both preovulatory and midluteal normoprolactinemic controls by 45 minutes. Sporadic luteal-phase hyperprolactinemia is a relatively common event (36% of 133 subjects in the present series). Of these 48 women, 33 (69%) had repetitive elevations, suggesting the elevation in these subjects to be more than a random event. The physiological validity of this observation is further demonstrated by an abnormal response to TRH stimulation, but the normal levels of luteal phase progesterone leave questions as to its pathological importance.

Effect of modified wuzi yanzong granule on patients with mild cognitive impairment from oxidative damage aspect.

PubMed

Wang, Xue-mei; Fu, Hong; Liu, Geng-xin; Zhu, Wei; Li, Li; Yang, Jin-xia

2007-12-01

To observe the effects of modified Wuzi Yanzong Granule (WYG) on memory function and the activity of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, leukocyte mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletion rate and beta-amyloid protein(1-28) (A beta(1-28)) in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Thirty-six patients with MCI were selected based on the internationally recognized Petersen's criteria, and equally and randomly assigned to two groups. The treated group was treated with WYG and the control group was treated with placebo for 3 months. In addition, 20 healthy subjects were included in the study as the normal control group. Changes of memory function, SOD activity, MDA content, leukocyte mtDNA deletion rate and A beta(1-28) content were observed before and after treatment. Compared with the normal control group, the memory quotient and SOD activity in patients with MCI decreased significantly (P < 0.01), while MDA, A beta(1-28) levels and the leukocyte mtDNA deletion rate increased significantly (P < 0.01). After treatment, levels of memory quotient and serum SOD activity increased while the serum MDA level, leukocyte mtDNA deletion rate and A beta(1-28) level decreased in the treated group compared with those before treatment (P<0.01, P<0.05). Meanwhile, leukocyte mtDNA deletion rate and A beta(1-28) content in the treated group were all lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). WYG could improve memory function in patients with MCI and the therapeutic mechanism is possibly related to the increased activity of anti-oxidase, the improved free radical metabolism and the alleviation of leukocyte mtDNA oxidation damage. WYG shows clinical significance in delaying the progression of MCI.