Search

Furin, a cleavage enzyme, is increasingly recognized in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Its cleavage action is an essential activation step for the endothelial pathogenicity of several viruses including SARS-CoV-2. This Furin-mediated endothelial tropism seems to underlie the multi-organ system involvement of COVID-19; which is a feature that was not recognized in the older versions of coronaviridae. Obese and diabetic patients, males, and the elderly, have increased serum levels of Furin, with its increased cellular activity; this might explain why these subgroups are at an increased risk of COVID-19 related complications and deaths. In contrast, smoking decreases cellular levels of Furin, this finding may be at the origin of the decreased severity of COVID-19 in smokers. Chinese herbal derived luteolin is suggested to be putative Furin inhibitor, with previous success against Dengue Fever. Additionally, Furin intracellular levels are largely dependent on concentration of intracellular ions, notably sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Consequently, the use of ion channel inhibitors, such as Calcium Channel blockers or Potassium Channel blockers, can prevent cellular transfection early in the course of the illness. Nicotine patches and Colchicine have also been suggested as potential therapies due to Furin mediated inhibition of COVID-19., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Endothelial dysfunction with subsequent degeneration and vasoocclusive remodeling is the hallmark of many cardiovascular disorders including pulmonary vascular disease (PVD). To date, the available treatments slows disease progression but does not prevent deterioration. Reversing such pathologies would spare many patients risky surgeries and long waiting lists for a possible organ donor. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists were first introduced as sole insulin sensitizers, however, there is increasing body of evidence that they have different actions on DNA which might help reverse vascular degeneration. This effect appears to be mainly achieved through enhancement of DNA damage responses (DDR). The aforementioned effect could offer new insights about repurposing drugs for achieving organ or tissue regeneration, an understudied field named drug-induced regenerative medicine., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a serious illness that has rapidly spread throughout the globe. The seriousness of complications puts significant pressures on hospital resources, especially the availability of ICU and ventilators. Current evidence suggests that COVID-19 pathogenesis majorly involves microvascular injury induced by hypercytokinemia, namely interleukin 6 (IL-6). We recount the suggested inflammatory pathway for COVID-19 and its effects on various organ systems, including respiratory, cardiac, hematologic, reproductive, and nervous organ systems, as well examine the role of hypercytokinemia in the at-risk geriatric and obesity subgroups with upregulated cytokines' profile. In view of these findings, we strongly encourage the conduction of prospective studies to determine the baseline levels of IL-6 in infected patients, which can predict a negative outcome in COVID-19 cases, with subsequent early administration of IL-6 inhibitors, to decrease the need for ICU admission and the pressure on healthcare systems. Video abstract: http://links.lww.com/CAEN/A24., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the largest outbreak to strike the world since the Spanish flu in 1918. Visual examination of the world map shows a wide variation of death tolls between countries. The main goal of our series is to determine the best predictors of such discrepancy., Methods: This is a retrospective study in which the rate of COVID-19 deaths was correlated with each of the following independent variables: total tests per 1 million population, gross domestic product (GDP), average temperatures per country, ultraviolet index, median age, average BMI per country, food supply, Bacille Calmette-Guerin compulsory status, and passenger traffic., Results: BMI per country proved to be the second best predictor of death rate with an R value of 0.43, and GDP being the best predictor with R  = 0.65., Conclusion: This article shows a tight correlation between average BMI, food supply per country, and COVID-19-related deaths. Such predisposing factors might operate by upregulating the inflammation pathway in heavily struck countries, leading to easier triggering of the infamous cytokine storm syndrome. Obesity also increases cardiovascular and respiratory morbidities, which are coupled to increased ICU demand and deaths among infected cases.Video abstract: http://links.lww.com/CAEN/A25., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is known to impact the subepicardial layer of the myocardium through chronic inflammation. Recent animal studies have shown predominant subendocardial involvement in rats with DMD. The primary outcome parameter was to determine by cardiovascular MRI (CMR) if two differential patterns of myocardial involvements exist in DMD; the secondary outcome parameters were to correlate the observed pattern with metabolic markers such as insulin resistance measures., Methods: Forty patients with DMD were screened using CMR to determine which of them had predominantly subendocardial dysfunction (SENDO group), or subepicardial/midmyocardial involvement (SEPMI group). Patients were subjected to body mass index measurement, serum creatinine kinase, serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme, fasting glucose-insulin ratio (FGIR), full lipid profile, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricle E/E´ ratio (the ratio of early mitral inflow velocity to average early diastolic velocities of the basal septum and mitral annulus) for left ventricle diastolic function, and myocardial layer strain discriminating echocardiography (MLSD-STE). Results: 26 patients displayed SENDO while 34 displayed SEPMI. SENDO group displayed overt insulin resistance; (FGIR (SENDO: 7 ± 1 vs. SEPMI: 5 ± 1, P  < 0.001). FGIR was negatively correlated with Subendocardial Global Longitudinal Strain (ENDO-LS) with r  = -0.75., Conclusion: DMD does not seem to influence the heart uniformly; DMD cardiomyopathy probably has two separate phenotypes with different mechanisms. Insulin resistance might be implicated in its pathogenesis and its reversal may help to slow disease progression., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the dentoalveolar effects of the myofunctional trainer T4K TM versus twin block in children with class II division I malocclusion. Two parallel arm randomized comparative clinical trial was conducted, including twenty healthy children, 9-12 years old, showing Angle's class II division I malocclusion due to mandibular retrusion. Children were randomly assigned into two groups according to the appliance used; Group 1: T4k, and Group II: twin block. Follow-up was done every 4 weeks for 9 months. Postoperative cephalometric X ray, study casts and photographs were taken for measurements and comparison. T4K showed a statistically significant reduction in the overjet (-2.50 ± 1.00 mm) ( p < 0.0001), and a significant increase in the lower arch perimeter (LAP) (1.19 ± 0.96 mm) ( p = 0.01). The twin block showed a statistically significant reduction in the overjet (-3.75 ± 1.10 mm) ( p < 0.0001), a significant reduction in the overbite (-16.22 ± 17.02 %) ( p = 0.03), and a significant increase in the LAP (1.69 ± 0.70 mm) ( p < 0.0001). The overjet showed a higher significant decrease in the twin block group than in T4K ( p = 0.03). The mean values of the overbite were significantly decreased in twin block than in T4k ( p < 0.0001). Both groups showed significant dentoalveolar improvements toward class I occlusion; however, the twin block showed significantly better results than T4K appliance.

Objectives: The purpose of our study was to determine morphological changes and bone mineral density (BMD) differences in the adult mandible of offspring exposed to high calcium, low phosphorus diets in utero until weaning age., Materials and Methods: Time-mated FVB wild-type mice were fed normal or experimental diet during gestation and until weaning of offspring. Experimental diet contained 3-fold increase in calcium and 3-fold decrease in phosphorus compared to normal diet. Adult mandibles of offspring exposed to experimental diet were sacrificed and heads scanned using micro-computed tomography. Three-dimensional 3D geometric morphometric analysis GMA was utilized to detect morphological changes to the mandible including the condyle., Results: Experimental females showed the greatest morphological differences including shortened mandibular ramus width and height, shortened mandibular body length and height, a wider but shortened condylar neck and a wider condylar head in the lateral-medial direction. Experimental male mandibles trended towards increased mandibular body height and length, opposite the changes observed in experimental female mandibles, whereas condyles were similar to that observed in experimental females. Bone mineral density (BMD) was lowered in experimental females., Conclusion: Increased calcium and decreased phosphorus levels led to a retrognathic mandible associated with lowered BMD in experimental females, whereas experimental showed partly opposite effects. Further studies are required to understand the mechanism underlying diet- and gender-specific differences in mandibular morphology., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different disinfectant solutions' immersion on the dimensional accuracy of different complete edentulous impressions., Materials and Methods: A specific custom-made metallic cast template was constructed and used for making both 120 alginate and zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) paste impressions (60 for each). Disinfectants with 1% sodium hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde were used for 10 and 60 min immersion of both impressions. After immersion time, the impressions were used for constructing 120 completely edentulous master stone models and divided into different groups according to the study. An electronic caliper was used for dimensional accuracy measurements of the casts. The data were collected and statistically analyzed according to the independent paired sample t -test at statistically significant level P < 0 05. One-way ANOVA test was used to compare between significant different groups., Results: There is no statistically significant difference in dimensional accuracy of alginate and ZOE paste impressions as disinfection with 1% sodium hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde for 10 min and ZOE paste impressions for 60 min, where there is statistically significant difference in alginate impressions dimensional accuracy as disinfection with 1% sodium hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde for 60 min., Conclusions: Possibility of ZOE impressions paste disinfected with 1% sodium hypochlorite and 2% glutaraldehyde for 10 or 60 min, not affecting on dimensional stability, while alginate impressions, only 10 min immersion in disinfectant not affecting the dimensional stability., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest.

Background: Dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) is a waste product of several industrial processes. α-Lipoic acid (ALA) is a vitamin-like chemical also called as an antioxidant. Therefore, the study was designed to investigate the potential benefits of ALA in reducing the nephropathy of DMN in male mice., Methods: Animals were divided into 6 groups (n=8) and received their treatment for 4 weeks as follows: groups 1-4 served as control, ALA-treatment (16.12 mg/kg), DMN low dose treatment and DMN high dose treatment, respectively. Groups 5 and 6 received ALA before DMN low dose and DMN high dose, respectively. Superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and xanthine oxidase, total antioxidant capacity, nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation as well as the levels of uric acid and creatinine were determined. The histological and ultrastructure changes of renal tissue were also evaluated., Results: Treatment of the DMN mice with ALA showed a reduction in the levels of kidney nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, as well as creatinine and uric acid levels as compared with the DMN group. The results show that ALA plays an important role in quenching the free radicals resulting from the metabolism of DMN, thereby inhibiting lipid peroxidation and protecting membrane lipids from oxidative damage and, in turn, preventing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Histopathological and ultrastructure analysis of renal tissue confirmed the oxidative stress results occurred in DMN renal mice. Concomitant administration of ALA with DMN significantly decreased all the histopathological changes induced by DMN., Conclusions: The present study elucidated the therapeutic effects of ALA administered in combination with DMN to minimize its renal toxicity.

Objectives: The aim was to evaluate the effect of adding povidone (PVP) iodine powder with different concentrations to irreversible hydrocolloid on both microbiological and dimensional stability., Materials and Methods: Regular set of (alginate) irreversible hydrocolloid was selected as control group. PVP-iodine powder was mixed with the alginate powder at concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20% by weight (test groups). All specimens were tested for their antimicrobial effect against Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus as well as dimensional stability., Results: The results of test groups showed that concentrations 1, 5, and 10, weight % had little effect against S. mutans and S. aureus microorganisms. While concentrations 15 and 20 weight % had demonstrated greater effect on microbial growth. The mean of dimensional stability in mm of modified alginate with PVP-iodine at 15 and 20 weight % was -0.119 ± 0.255 and -0.035 ± 0.074, respectively. While the mean dimensional stability in mm of unmodified alginate was -0.112 ± 0.176. The results of dimensional stability showed that 15 and 20 concentrations of test groups adversely affect the dimensional stability. The adverse effect was noticed to be significant in concentration 20%, where as it was nonsignificant in 15% concentration., Conclusion: Modified alginate impression material with 15 weight % PVP-iodine powered give the material, a self-disinfected properties with less deteriorating effect on dimensional stability., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest.

Objective: The goal of this study was to compare the incidence of Pineal Gland Calcification (PGC) by age group and gender among the populations living in the Kurdistan Region-Iraq., Methods: This prospective study examined skull X-rays of 480 patients between the ages of 3 and 89 years who sought care at a large teaching public hospital in Duhok, Iraq from June 2014 to November 2014. Descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression were used for analysis., Results: The overall incidence rate of PGC among the study population was 26.9% with the 51-60 age group and males having the highest incidence. PGC incidence increased after the first decade and remained steady until the age of 60. Thereafter the incidence began to decrease. Logistic regression analysis revealed that both age and gender significantly affected the risk of PGC. After adjusting for age, males were 1.94 (95% CI, 1.26-2.99) times more likely to have PGC compared to females. In addition, a one year increase in age increases the odds of developing PGC by 1.02 (95% CI, 1.01-1.03) units after controlling for the effects of gender., Conclusion: Our analysis demonstrated a close relationship between PGC and age and gender, supporting a link between the development of PGC and these factors. This study provides a basis for future researchers to further investigate the nature and mechanisms underlying pineal gland calcification.

We evaluate function outcomes of the reverse-flow ALT perforator flap to reconstruct severe post-burn knee contracture. Between October 2012 and December 2014, 10 patients with severe post-burn knee contracture were subjected to reconstruction with 10 ipsilateral reversed-flow ALT perforator flaps. All the patients were male. Ages ranged from 15 to 47 years (mean = 32 years). Time from burn injury to patient presentation ranged from 2-8 months. All patients demonstrated post-burn flexion contracture of the knee joint, ranging from 35 to 75 degrees. Flap sizes ranged from 8×16 to 12×26 cm. The flaps and skin grafts were carried out without major complications. Only minor complications occurred, such as transient, mild congestion immediately after inset in two flaps. Two flaps developed superficial necrosis at the distal edge. One case sustained partial skin graft loss due to haematoma. One case complained of skin hyperpigmentation and hypertrophic scars around the graft. Secondary debulking procedures were required in two cases. The entire donor sites were closed by partial thickness skin graft with acceptable appearance, except one case that was closed primarily. Eight out of ten patients (80%) demonstrated gradual improvement in range of knee motion after a specialized rehabilitation program. Two patients (20%) did not get back full range of motion. RALT perforator flap is the cornerstone for the reconstruction of soft-tissue defects around the knee with acceptable aesthetic and functional results provided that the following items are fulfilled: inclusion of muscle cuff around the pedicle, the pivot point, prevention of pedicle compression after transfer and early surgical intervention on the post-burn knee contracture.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by polyarticular symmetrical arthritis. The prevalence of RA is consistent worldwide, affecting about 0.5%-1.0% of the population. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Saussurea lappa (costus) could ameliorate adjuvant arthritis (AA) in the rat for 21 days., Methods: Animals were divided into eight groups (n=5/group). Group 1 acted as control, group 2 presented the AA rats (positive control), and groups 3, 4, and 5 were treated with different doses of S. lappa (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg, respectively), whereas groups 6, 7, and 8 were AA rats and orally administered with S. lappa (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg, respectively). The changes caused by chronic inflammation were evaluated through the measurement of ankle circumference (AC). Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins (IL-1β and IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), total oxidative capacity (TOC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined., Results: Saussurea lappa dose-dependently alleviated the severity of the disease based on the reduction in AC and on the clinical scores of the histological study. Histopathological examination proved that S. lappa decreased the infiltration of inflammatory cells and synovial hyperplasia as well as protected joint destruction. Saussurea lappa reduced the serum levels of CRP, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, reduced the TOC, and improved the TAC as compared with AA rats., Conclusions: The S. lappa extract has potentially useful anti-arthritic activity as well as improves the immune and antioxidant responses of adjuvant-induced monoarthritis in rats.

Interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-12 are closely related in structure, and these cytokines regulate both innate and adaptive immunity. However, the precise signaling networks that regulate the production of each in Toxoplasma gondii-infected THP-1 monocytic cells, particularly the PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling pathways, remain unknown. In the present study, T. gondii infection upregulated the expression of IL-23 and IL-12 in THP-1 cells, and both cytokines increased with parasite dose. IL-23 secretion was strongly inhibited by TLR2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment in a dose-dependent manner and by TLR2 siRNA transfection, whereas IL-12 secretion was strongly inhibited by TLR4 mAb treatment dose-dependently and by TLR4 siRNA transfection. IL-23 production was dose-dependently inhibited by the PI3K inhibitors LY294002 and wortmannin, whereas IL-12 production increased dose-dependently. THP-1 cells exposed to live T. gondii tachyzoites underwent rapid p38 MAPK, ERK1/2 and JNK activation. IL-23 production was significantly upregulated by the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 dose-dependently, whereas pretreatment with 10 μM SB203580 significantly downregulated IL-12 production. ERK1/2 inhibition by PD98059 was significantly downregulated IL-23 production but upregulated IL-12 production. JNK inhibition by SP600125 upregulated IL-23 production, but IL-12 production was significantly downregulated dose-dependently. T. gondii infection resulted in AKT activation, and AKT phosphorylation was inhibited dose-dependently after pretreatment with PI3K inhibitors. In T. gondii-infected THP-1 cells, ERK1/2 activation was regulated by PI3K; however, the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and JNK was negatively modulated by the PI3K signaling pathway. Collectively, these results indicate that IL-23 production in T. gondii-infected THP-1 cells was regulated mainly by TLR2 and then by PI3K and ERK1/2; however, IL-12 production was mainly regulated by TLR4 and then by p38 MAPK and JNK. Our findings provide new insight concerning the intracellular networks of the PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling cascades for regulating T. gondii-induced IL-23 and IL-12 secretion in human monocytic cells.

Background: This study was aimed to evaluate complete mandibular overdentures retained by a symphyseal single implant using ball and magnet attachments in both clinical and radiographic evaluation., Materials and Methods: Ten dental press fit titanium implants were installed in the lower jaws of completely edentulous patients according to two-stage surgical protocol. For each patient, one implant was installed in the symphyseal midline region, and left submerged and unloaded for 4 months. The patients were then divided into two equal groups. The first group received mandibular overdentures retained by ball and socket attachment. The second group received mandibular overdentures retained by magnet attachment. Both groups were supplied with conventional maxillary complete dentures. All patients were evaluated immediately after denture insertion, 6 months, and 12 months and after 24 months of overdenture insertion., Results: The study showed insignificant difference regarding the clinical condition and the marginal bone height changes in both groups during the follow-up period., Conclusion: Single implant retained overdenture with ball and socket or magnetic attachments was easy in construction, required less home care to maintain gingival health and give satisfactory clinical results.

The genetic diversity of Schistosoma haematobium remains largely unstudied in comparison to that of Schistosoma mansoni. To characterize the extent of genetic diversity in S. haematobium among its definitive host (humans), we collected S. haematobium eggs from the urine of 73 infected schoolchildren at 5 primary schools in White Nile State, Sudan, and then performed a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA marker ITS2 by PCR-RFLP analysis. Among 73 S. haematobium egg-positive cases, 13 were selected based on the presence of the S. haematobium satellite markers A4 and B2 in their genomic DNA, and used for RFLP analysis. The 13 samples were subjected to an RFLP analysis of the S. haematobium ITS2 region; however, there was no variation in size among the fragments. Compared to the ITS2 sequences obtained for S. haematobium from Kenya, the nucleotide sequences of the ITS2 regions of S. haematobium from 4 areas in Sudan were consistent with those from Kenya (> 99%). In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that most of the S. haematobium population in Sudan consists of a pan-African S. haematobium genotype; however, we also report the discovery of Kenyan strain inflow into White Nile, Sudan.

Background: Sodium fluoride (NaF) intoxication is associated with oxidative stress and altered antioxidant defense mechanism. The present study was carried out to evaluate the potential protective role of blackberry and quercetin (Q) against NaF-induced oxidative stress and histological changes in liver, kidney, testis and brain tissues of rats., Methods: The rats were allocated evenly to seven groups. The first group was maintained as the control, whereas groups 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 were administered blackberry juice (BBJ), Q, NaF, BBJ+NaF, Q+NaF and BBJ+Q+NaF, respectively, for a period of 30 days., Results and Conclusions: NaF caused an elevation in lipid peroxidation level paralleled with significant decline in glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities as well as the total antioxidant activity in liver, kidney, testes and brain. Some histopathological changes were detected in all tested tissues of the NaF treated group. Q and BBJ had successfully maintained normal histological architecture and mitigated the induction of oxidative stress caused by NaF. Q effectively reduced the elevation in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level and restored the activities of antioxidant enzymes in liver, kidney, testis and brain. Less histopathological changes were observed in Q+NaF and BBJ+NaF treated groups. As a result, BBJ and Q significantly reduced NaF-induced oxidative and histological changes in rats. In the combination of BBJ and Q against NaF toxicity, the effects were more severe than from separate exposure, thus indicating that these flavonoids exhibited synergistic effects on all antioxidant and histological parameters.

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Immunological/inflammatory reactions are reported to play a role in AD but their role in disease activity has not been fully investigated. This study was done to investigate the role of immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin (IL)-18 and IL-12 in AD patients with different disease severities., Materials and Methods: Sera from 50 AD infants with varying levels of disease activity according to the scoring index of atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index and 30 age-matched healthy controls were evaluated for serum levels of IgE, IL-18 and IL-12/p40., Results: Serum analysis showed higher levels of IgE, IL-18 or IL-12/p40 in AD patients compared with controls. Interestingly, not only was there an increased number of subjects positive for IgE, IL-18 or IL-12/p40, but also the levels of these parameters were higher among AD patients whose SCORAD scores were higher. In addition, a significant correlation was observed between the levels of these parameters and SCORAD scores., Conclusion: These findings support an association between IgE, IL-18 or IL-12/p40 and AD. The stronger response observed in serum samples from patients with higher SCORAD scores suggest that IgE, IL-18 and IL-12/p40 may be useful in evaluating the progression of AD and in elucidating the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis.

Purpose: Schistosomiasis remains a major public health concern in Sudan, particularly Schistosoma haematobium infection. This study presents the disease-reduction outcomes of an integrated control program for schistosomiasis in Al Jabalain locality of White Nile State, Sudan from 2009 through 2011., Methods: The total population of the project sites was 482,902, and the major target group for intervention among them was 78,615 primary school students. For the cross-sectional study of the prevalence, urine and stool specimens were examined using the urine sedimentation method and the Kato cellophane thick smear method, respectively. To assess the impacts of health education for students and a drinking water supply facility at Al Hidaib village, questionnaire survey was done., Results: The overall prevalence for S. haematobium and S. mansoni at baseline was 28.5% and 0.4%, respectively. At follow-up survey after 6-9 months post-treatment, the prevalence of S. haematobium infection was reduced to 13.5% (95% CI = 0.331-0.462). A higher reduction in prevalence was observed among girls, those with moderately infected status (around 20%), and residents in rural areas, than among boys, those with high prevalence (>40%), and residents in urban areas. After health education, increased awareness about schistosomiasis was checked by questionnaire survey. Also, a drinking water facility was constructed at Al Hidaib village, where infection rate was reduced more compared to that in a neighboring village within the same unit. However, we found no significant change in the prevalence of S. mansoni infection between baseline and follow-up survey (95% CI = 0.933-6.891)., Conclusions: At the end of the project, the prevalence of S. haematobium infection was reduced by more than 50% in comparison with the baseline rate. Approximately 200,000 subjects had received either praziquantel therapy, health education, or supply of clean water. To consolidate the achievements of this project, the integrated intervention should be adapted continuously.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinically and radiographically median lingualized occlusion in implant-retained mandibular complete overdenture., Materials and Methods: Ten completely edentulous male patients were participated in this study. Each patient received two implants in the intraforaminal area of the edentulous mandible that were left unloaded for 4 months. Patients were received conventional maxillary complete denture and implant mandibular overdenture with ball and socket attachment. The posterior teeth were set according to median lingualized occlusion scheme. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically immediately after denture insertion, 6 and 12 months of overdenture insertion., Results: The results revealed significant differences in probing depth, gingival index, plaque index, and marginal bone height between the different follow-up periods. With the limitation of this study, and according to the results of the mean marginal bone loss and the other peri-implant parameters after 1 year of loading., Conclusion: The implant retained overdenture with the median lingualized occlusal scheme may be recognized as being acceptable according to the general implant success rates and criteria.

Fasciola hepatica is a trematode that causes zoonosis mainly in cattle and sheep and occasionally in humans. Fascioliasis has been reported in Korea; however, determining F. hepatica infection in snails has not been done recently. Thus, using PCR, we evaluated the prevalence of F. hepatica infection in snails at 4 large water-dropwort fields. Among 349 examined snails, F. hepatica-specific internal transcribed space 1 (ITS-1) and/or ITS-2 markers were detected in 12 snails and confirmed using sequence analysis. Morphologically, 213 of 349 collected snails were dextral shelled, which is the same aperture as the lymnaeid snail, the vectorial host for F. hepatica. Among the 12 F. hepatica-infected snails, 6 were known first intermediate hosts in Korea (Lymnaea viridis and L. ollula) and the remaining 6 (Lymnaea sp.) were potentially a new first intermediate host in Korea. It has been shown that the overall prevalence of the snails contaminated with F. hepatica in water-dropwort fields was 3.4%; however, the prevalence varied among the fields. This is the first study to estimate the prevalence of F. hepatica infection using the vectorial capacity of the snails in Korea.

Background: We investigated the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical manifestations of schistosomiasis in White Nile State, Sudan, to determine the local characteristics of schistosomiasis in the White Nile River basin., Methods: Urine and stool samples were collected from 338 students (176 boys, 162 girls) at three primary schools and were examined using the urine filtration method and the Kato-Katz technique, respectively. Of the students, 200 were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess water-contact patterns and health conditions related with urinary schistosomiasis., Results: Of the 338 students, egg-positive rates for S. haematobium and S. mansoni were 45.0% and 5.9%, respectively, and 4.4% were mixed. The intensities of S. haematobium and S. mansoni infection were 1.091 ± 0.744 log EP10 (eggs per 10 mL of urine, mean ± SD = 57 ± 172 EP10) and 1.787 ± 0.844 log EPG (eggs per gram of stool, mean ± SD = 156 ± 176 EPG), respectively. The prevalence and intensity of S. haematobium infection differed significantly among the three schools, but not by gender or age. Urinary schistosomiasis was significantly associated with the frequencies of contaminated water contact, taking baths, swimming, and wading the stream; however, frequencies of these events were not significantly correlated with infection intensity. Self-reported hematuria and dysuria also correlated significantly with urinary schistosomiasis., Conclusions: The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis, especially urinary schistosomiasis, is high in the White Nile River basin, Sudan, and is closely associated with frequencies of water contact, taking baths, swimming, and wading the stream. We strongly recommend implementation of an integrated schistosomiasis control program in this area.

Background: There are multiple environmental factors that influence a sensitized (IgE antibody positive) patient's predisposition to manifest allergic symptoms following allergen exposure. The majority of allergens are known to induce morbidity with chronic symptoms such as rhinitis, pruritis, dermatitis and urticaria., Aim: To study the impact of environmental and agricultural pollutants with different pollens on the immunological, hematological and biochemical markers and to determine the prevalence of sensitization to allergens among exposed individuals as well as to identify the eliciting allergens., Subjects and Methods: Ninety six highly exposed individuals to environmental and agricultural pollution in addition to 20 as controls were selected. A solid phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the EUROLINE test kit were used for the quantitative determination of total IgE concentration and semi-quantitative in vitro assay of human IgE antibodies to some of the inhalant, ingestant and contactant allergens in serum samples, respectively. Percentage and absolute eosinophil counts and biochemical parameters were analyzed., Results: Thirteen (13.5%) out of the 96 studied highly exposed subjects were manifesting allergic symptoms. Higher significant total serum IgE levels and absolute eosinophil counts in groups 1 and 3 of the highly exposed individuals compared to the control group were found (p1=0.00, p3=0.001 and p1=0.016, p3=0.028, respectively). Higher sensitization with inhalant Timothy grass, Aspergillus fumigatus, Der. Farinae and Olive; ingestant Egg yolk, Mango, Strawberry and Codfish and with contactant Latex/plastic and Crude oil was found in the studied groups compared with the controls., Conclusion: The present data suggest that the highly exposed subjects to pollution are at high risk of developing an allergy. For the screening of those with suspected allergen sensitization, the determination of specific IgE antibodies is a suitable marker of type I allergy.

Bird fancier's lung (BFL) resulting from avian antigen exposure is a very common form of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Its pathogenesis is modified by genetic polymorphisms located within the major histocompatibility complex, and also by smoking, which may decrease serum antibody response to inhaled antigen. Acute, subacute, and chronic presentations of BFL are recognized, but often overlap clinically. Continued antigen exposure in the chronic phase portends a worse prognosis. Chronic bronchitis symptoms may be part of the BFL clinical spectrum, and rhinitis may suggest an allergic component. The diagnosis of BFL is enhanced by a high index of suspicion of exposure to avian antigen, recurrent symptomatic episodes occurring 4-8 h after exposure, inspiratory "velcro" crackles on auscultation, weight loss, and positive IgG precipitins to the antigen. Characteristic findings on high-resolution computed tomography of the chest include centrilobular nodules, ground-glass opacification, and mosaicism due to air trapping. Bronchoalveolar lavage will classically show >25% lymphocytosis, a CD4/CD8 ratio of <1.0 and >1% mast cells in the acute phase. Lung biopsies, if obtained in the subacute phase of the disease, typically show loosely formed granulomas, giant cells, a lymphoplasmacytic interstitial infiltrate, and possibly some degree of fibrosis. In some patients, usual interstitial pneumonia or fibrotic non-specific interstitial pneumonia patterns may be seen on surgical biopsy. Skin testing, serological testing, and bronchial provocation tests for BFL frequently suffer from a lack of standardization. Effective treatment for BFL consists mainly of antigen avoidance, as corticosteroids likely do not alter long-term prognosis. Lung transplantation can be considered for progressive chronic disease refractory to medical measures.

Toxoplasma gondii is distributed worldwide and infects most species of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The heavy incidence and severe or lethal damage caused by T. gondii infection clearly indicates the need for the development of a vaccine. To evaluate the protective efficacy of a multiantigenic DNA vaccine expressing GRA7 and ROP1 of T. gondii with or without a plasmid encoding murine interleukin-12 (pIL12), we constructed DNA vaccines using the eukaryotic plasmids pGRA7, pROP1, and pGRA7-ROP1. Mice immunized with pGRA7, pROP1, or pGRA7-ROP1 showed significantly increased serum IgG2a titers; production of gamma interferon (IFN-γ), IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α); in vitro T cell proliferation; and survival, as well as decreased cyst burdens in the brain, compared to mice immunized with either the empty plasmid, pIL12, or vector with pIL12 (vector+pIL12). Moreover, mice immunized with the multiantigenic DNA vaccine pGRA7-ROP1 had higher IgG2a titers, production of IFN-γ and TNF-α, survival time, and cyst reduction rate compared to those of mice vaccinated with either pGRA7 or pROP1 alone. Furthermore, mice immunized with either a pGRA7-ROP1+pIL12 or a single-gene vaccine combined with pIL12 showed greater Th1 immune response and protective efficacy than the single-gene-vaccinated groups. Our data suggest that the multiantigenic DNA antigen pGRA7-ROP1 was more effective in stimulating host protective immune responses than separately injected single antigens, and that IL-12 serves as a good DNA adjuvant.

Toxoplasma gondii can modulate host cell gene expression; however, determining gene expression levels in intermediate hosts after T. gondii infection is not known much. We selected 5 genes (ALDH1A2, BEX2, CCL3, EGR2 and PLAU) and compared the mRNA expression levels in the spleen, liver, lung and small intestine of genetically different mice infected with T. gondii. ALDH1A2 mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were markedly increased at day 1-4 postinfection (PI) and then decreased, and its expressions in the spleen and lung were significantly higher in C57BL/6 mice than those of BALB/c mice. BEX2 and CCR3 mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were significantly increased from day 7 PI and peaked at day 15-30 PI (P<0.05), especially high in the spleen liver or small intestine of C57BL/6 mice. EGR2 and PLAU mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were significantly increased after infection, especially high in the spleen and liver. However, their expression patterns were varied depending on the tissue and mouse strain. Taken together, T. gondii-susceptible C57BL/6 mice expressed higher levels of these 5 genes than did T. gondii-resistant BALB/c mice, particularly in the spleen and liver. And ALDH1A2 and PLAU expressions were increased acutely, whereas BEX2, CCL3 and EGR2 expressions were increased lately. Thus, these demonstrate that host genetic factors exert a strong impact on the expression of these 5 genes and their expression patterns were varied depending on the gene or tissue.

Background: Biliary atresia (BA) is an idiopathic progressive inflammation and fibrosclerosis of the extra and intrahepatic bile ducts., Aim: To measure the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in biliary atresia and correlate with clinical outcome., Methods: Sixty children were included, 20 with BA (group 1), 20 with intrahepatic cholestasis (group 2) and 20 normal children as controls. Complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, serum IL-6 and IL-8 were analyzed in all the three groups., Results: Mean serum IL-6 and IL-8 levels were significantly higher in group 1 (394.7 +/- 40.2 and 111.2 +/- 9.7 pg/dl, respectively) than group 2 (175.5 +/- 33.1 and 53.5 +/- 8.2 pg/dl, respectively) (p=0.0 for both). Both IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly higher in both the disease groups compared to controls (30.4 +/- 8.8 and 13.7 +/- 4.1 pg/dl, respectively). IL-8 showed a significant positive correlation with lymphocytes and significant negative correlation with albumin in group 1. Higher IL-6 was found in patients with BA with severe fibrosis than in patients with mild fibrosis while higher IL-8 was found in children with persistent jaundice than those free from jaundice in group 1., Conclusion: Serum IL-6 and IL8 are high in patients with BA indicating ongoing inflammation. They may serve to determine disease severity and may predict the progression to liver fibrosis in these cases.

Background: Lead is a metal with many important industrial uses. The relationship between lead exposure and the rise of blood pressure has received a great deal of attention as it was implicated that the mortality from cardiovascular diseases might be reduced by lowering lead levels in the environment., Objectives: The study was to investigate the correlation between the blood lead (B-Pb) levels and the values of blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Moreover, the plasma activities of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), plasma levels of nitric oxide (NO), total antioxidants (TAOX) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated to investigate the correlations between the measured parameters and B-Pb levels in hypertensive patients., Methods: Fifty-five hypertensive patients were compared with fifty-three age and sex matched control group. The B-Pb levels were detected by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The plasma levels of ACE activities, NO, TAOX and MDA were measured by colorimetric methods., Results: In the hypertensive patients, B-Pb levels were significantly higher than controls. Concomitantly, the plasma levels of ACE activities and MDA were significantly increased while the plasma levels of NO and TAOX were significantly reduced in the hypertensive patients in comparison with controls. There were significant positive correlations between B-Pb and each of MDA, and systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure. Conversely, a significant negative correlation was found between B-Pb and NO., Conclusions: Our study indicated that a positive relationship exists between blood pressure and B-Pb levels. The increased B-Pb levels were associated with oxidative stress. Moreover, The B-Pb level was negatively correlated with NO and this may clarify the implication of Pb as leading risk factor for the cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. These findings provide support for continued efforts to reduce lead concentration in the population at Qassim region.

The present study was performed to investigate the infection status of intestinal parasites in pigs and beef cattle in rural areas of Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. From November 2009 to April 2010, a total of 241 fecal samples of pigs and beef cattle (136 and 105, respectively) were examined by direct smear and centrifugal sedimentation methods. The overall positive rates of intestinal parasites among pigs and beef cattle were 73.5% and 4.8%, respectively, and the double-infection rate was 10.3% in pigs. Of 136 specimens from pigs, Balantidium coli, Ascaris suum, and Entamoeba spp. infections were found in 88 (64.7%), 24 (17.6%), and 5 cases (3.7%), respectively. Of 105 beef cattle, Entamoeba spp. infections were detected in 5 cases (4.8%). From these results, it is shown that pigs raised on rural farms in Chungcheongnam-do had a high B. coli infection rate and a moderate A. suum infection rate. These results demonstrate that environmentally resistant cysts or eggs could be widespread on the farms examined, and thus an effective hygienic management system is needed to prevent them from serving as the source of infection for human beings.

Ground beef with 10%, 15%, or 20% fat were added with none, 0.05% ascorbic acid + 0.01%alpha-tocopherol, or 0.05% ascorbic acid + 0.01%alpha-tocopherol + 0.01% sesamol, and irradiated at 0 or 2.5 kGy. The meat samples were displayed under fluorescent light for 14 d at 4 degrees C. Color, lipid oxidation, volatiles, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and carbon monoxide (CO) production were determined during storage. Irradiation increased lipid oxidation and total volatiles of ground beef regardless of fat contents. Ascorbic acid + alpha-tocopherol + sesamol treatment was the most effective in reducing lipid oxidation during storage. The production of ethanol in nonirradiated ground beef increased dramatically after 7 d of storage due to microbial growth. Total aldehydes and hexanal increased drastically in irradiated control over the storage period, but hexanal increased the most by irradiation. L*-values was decreased by irradiation, but increased in all meat regardless of fat contents as storage period increased. Irradiation reduced the redness, but fat contents had no effect on the a*-value of ground beef. Sesamol lowered, but ascorbic acid + alpha-tocopherol maintained the redness of irradiated beef up to 2 wk of storage. The yellowness of meat was significantly decreased by irradiation. The reducing power of ascorbic acid + alpha-tocopherol lasted for 3 d, after which ORP values increased. Irradiation increased CO production regardless of fat content in ground beef. In conclusion, up to 20% fat had no effect on the quality change of irradiated ground beef if ascorbic acid + alpha-tocopherol was added.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of antimicrobials on the survival and proliferation of Listeria monocytogenes in turkey breast rolls following electron-beam irradiation. Six antimicrobial additive treatments that include no preservatives (control), 0.1% potassium benzoate (PB), 2% sodium lactate (SL), 0.1% potassium benzoate plus 2% sodium lactate (PB + SL), 2% sodium lactate plus 0.1% sodium diacetate (SL + SDA), and 0.1% potassium benzoate, 2% sodium lactate, and 0.1% sodium diacetate (PB + SL + SDA) were used. Sliced turkey breast rolls were artificially inoculated with approximately 10(6) cfu/cm(2) of 5-strain L. monocytogenes cocktails, then vacuum-packaged and irradiated at 0, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, or 2.5 kGy. The radiation dose (kGy) that results in 90% reduction of viable cells for breast rolls, D(10) value, with various additive treatments ranged from 0.56 to 0.58 kGy. Adding PB (0.1%) or SL (2%) in turkey rolls failed to prevent L. monocytogenes from growing during refrigerated storage. In turkey rolls added with 2 (PB + SL or SL + SDA) or 3 (PB + SL + SDA) antimicrobial combinations had 2 or 3 wk of lag phases before L. monocytogenes growth, respectively. Irradiating turkey rolls, which were added with PB + SL or SL + SDA, at 1.0 kGy was effective in suppressing the growth of L. monocytogenes for about 6 wk when stored at 4 degrees C. No growth of L. monocytogenes after irradiation occurred during 42 d of storage for 2.0 kGy irradiated breast rolls formulated with 0.1% PB + 2% SL, 2% SL + 0.1% SDA or 0.1% PB + 2% SL + 0.1% SDA, and 1.0 kGy irradiated turkey breast with 0.1% PB + 2% SL + 0.1% SDA. Sensory panelists found that low-dose irradiation (1.0 kGy) had no effect on the sensory characteristics of ready-to-eat turkey breast rolls. Including SL + SDA had slightly negative effect for nonirradiated turkey breast rolls, but the sensory characteristics of 1.0 kGy irradiated turkey roll containing SL + SDA was not significantly different from the others receiving 1.0 kGy irradiation. For microbial safety, PB + SL and SL + SDA antimicrobial treatments combined with 1.0 kGy or 2.0 kGy irradiation are a promising technology.

Four antioxidant treatments (none, 0.05% ascorbic acid, 0.01%alpha-tocopherol + 0.01% sesamol, and 0.05% ascorbic acid + 0.01%alpha-tocopherol + 0.01% sesamol) were applied to ground beef using either mixing or spraying method. The meat samples were placed on Styrofoam trays, irradiated at 0 or 2.5 kGy, and then stored for 7 d at 4 degrees C. Color, lipid oxidation, volatiles, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and carbon monoxide (CO) production were determined at 0, 3, and 7 d of storage. Irradiation increased lipid oxidation of ground beef with control and ascorbic acid treatments after 3 d of storage. alpha-Tocopherol + sesamol and ascorbic acid +alpha-tocopherol + sesamol treatments were effective in slowing down lipid oxidation in ground beef during storage regardless of application methods, but mixing was better than the spraying method. Irradiation lowered L*-value and a*-value of ground beef. Storage had no effect on lightness but redness decreased with storage. Ascorbic acid was the most effective in maintaining redness of ground beef followed by ascorbic acid +alpha-tocopherol + sesamol. Irradiation and storage reduced the b*-value of ground beef. Irradiation lowered ORP of ground beef regardless of antioxidants application methods, but ORP was lower in beef with mixing than spraying method. Beef sprayed with antioxidants produced more hydrocarbons and alcohols than the mixing application, but ascorbic acid +alpha-tocopherol + sesamol treatment was effective in reducing the amount of volatiles produced by irradiation. Therefore, mixing was better than the spraying method in preventing lipid oxidation and maintaining color of irradiated ground beef.

Beef rounds aged for one, two, or three weeks after slaughtering were ground added with 0.05% ascorbic acid+0.01% α-tocopherol or 0.05% ascorbic acid+0.01% α-tocopherol+0.01% sesamol, placed on Styrofoam trays and wrapped with oxygen-permeable plastic film, and treated with electron beam irradiation at 0 or 2.5kGy. The meat samples were displayed under fluorescent light for 7d at 4°C. Color, lipid oxidation, volatile analysis, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and carbon monoxide (CO) production were determined at 0, 3, and 7d of storage. Irradiation increased lipid oxidation of ground beef regardless of their aging time and storage period. As aging time increased lipid oxidation increased. Adding sesamol increased the effectiveness of ascorbate and tocopherol combination in reducing lipid oxidation especially as aging and storage time increased. The redness of beef were decreased by irradiation and adding ascorbic acid and α-tocopherol before irradiation was effective in maintaining the redness of irradiated ground beef over the storage period. The combination of ascorbic acid+α-tocopherol to ground beef was more effective in reducing ORP than adding sesamol. Irradiation increased CO production from all ground beef regardless of aging time or additives treatments. Volatile sulfur compounds produced by irradiation at Day 0 disappeared over the storage period. Alcohol greatly increased in all nonirradiated beef, but volatiles aldehydes only in irradiated control beef. Antioxidant treatments were effective in reducing aldehydes in ground beef during storage.

The effect of electron beam irradiation on the survival and growth of Listeria monocytogenes and natural microflora in oven-roasted turkey breast rolls and turkey hams was evaluated. Slices of turkey breast rolls and hams were inoculated with a 5-strain mixture of L. monocytogenes to achieve 10(6) to 10(7) cfu/cm2; vacuum-packaged; irradiated at 0 (control), 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, or 2.5 kGy; and stored at 4 degrees C for up to 28 d. Numbers of naturally occurring bacteria on sliced turkey hams and breast rolls were 2.72 and 6.22 log10 cfu/cm2, respectively. The values of the radiation dose that results in 90% reduction of viable L. monocytogenes in breast rolls and hams were 0.52 and 0.47 kGy, respectively. For breast rolls, the log10 reductions of L. monocytogenes after irradiation at 1.0 and 2.5 kGy were 1.5 and 4.7, respectively, whereas they were 2.0 and 5.5 for hams. The log10 reductions of aerobic plate count (APC) in breast rolls after 1.0 and 2.0 kGy of irradiation were 2.9 and 5.2, whereas that of hams was < 10 cfu/cm2 after 1.0 and 2.0 kGy of irradiation. In 2.0-kGy irradiated hams, L. monocytogenes grew to 4.82 log10 cfu/cm2 after 28 d of storage at 4 degrees C, whereas APC increased to 2.98 log10 cfu/cm2, respectively. In breast rolls after 14 d of storage, APC in 1.0-kGy irradiated samples increased to 7.53 log10 cfu/cm2, and APC increased to 2.63 and 4.68 log10 cfu/cm2 for 2.0-kGy irradiated breast rolls after 14 and 28 d of storage. However, during the storage of breast rolls, L. monocytogenes grew slowly or even stopped to grow in both nonirradiated and irradiated breast rolls due to the competitive inhibition of natural flora in breast rolls. This study showed that irradiation (1.0 to 2.5 kGy) effectively reduced the number of L. monocytogenes and natural flora. However, L. monocytogenes and natural flora that survived irradiation could multiply during the 28-d storage period at 4 degrees C. Thus, additional hurdles are needed to ensure the microbial safety after low-dose irradiation.

Background: Because of the possible role of cytokines including interleukins (IL) in systemic non-thyroidal illnesses' (NTI) pathogenesis and consequently the frequently associated alterations in thyroid hormone (TH) concentrations constituting the euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS), we aimed in this research to elucidate the possible relation between IL-6 & IL-10 and any documented ESS in a cohort of patients with NTI., Methods: Sixty patients and twenty healthy volunteers were recruited. The patients were subdivided into three subgroups depending on their underlying NTI and included 20 patients with chronic renal insufficiency (CRI), congestive heart failure (CHF), and ICU patients with myocardial infarction (MI). Determination of the circulating serum levels of IL-6 and IL-10, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), as well as total T4 and T3 was carried out., Results: In the whole group of patients, we detected a significantly lower T3 and T4 levels compared to control subjects (0.938 +/- 0.477 vs 1.345 +/- 0.44 nmol/L, p = 0.001 and 47.9 +/- 28.41 vs 108 +/- 19.49 nmol/L, p < 0.0001 respectively) while the TSH level was normal (1.08+0.518 muIU/L). Further, IL-6 was substantially higher above controls' levels (105.18 +/- 72.01 vs 3.35 +/- 1.18 ng/L, p < 0.00001) and correlated negatively with both T3 and T4 (r = -0.620, p < 0.0001 & -0.267, p < 0.001, respectively). Similarly was IL-10 level (74.13 +/- 52.99 vs 2.64 +/- 0.92 ng/ml, p < 0.00001) that correlated negatively with T3 (r = -0.512, p < 0.0001) but not T4. Interestingly, both interleukins correlated positively (r = 0.770, p = <0.001). Moreover, IL-6 (R2 = 0.338, p = 0.001) and not IL-10 was a predictor of low T3 levels with only a borderline significance for T4 (R2 = 0.082, p = 0.071).By subgroup analysis, the proportion of patients with subnormal T3, T4, and TSH levels was highest in the MI patients (70%, 70%, and 72%, respectively) who displayed the greatest IL-6 and IL-10 concentrations (192.5 +/- 45.1 ng/L & 122.95 +/- 46.1 ng/L, respectively) compared with CHF (82.95 +/- 28.9 ng/L & 69.05 +/- 44.0 ng/L, respectively) and CRI patients (40.05 +/- 28.9 ng/L & 30.4 +/- 10.6 ng/L, respectively). Surprisingly, CRI patients showed the least disturbance in IL-6 and IL-10 despite the lower levels of T3, T4, and TSH in a higher proportion of them compared to CHF patients (40%, 45%, & 26% vs 35%, 25%, & 18%, respectively)., Conclusion: the high prevalence of ESS we detected in NTI including CRI may be linked to IL-6 and IL-10 alterations. Further, perturbation of IL-6 and not IL-10 might be involved in ESS pathogenesis although it is not the only key player as suggested by our findings in CRI.

This study was conducted to investigate possible mechanisms underlying the gastroprotective effect of nicorandil on experimentally-induced gastric lesions in rats. The rats were randomly assigned to vehicle (saline or tween 80), nicorandil (2 mg/kg), glibenclamide (2 mg/kg), nicorandil plus glibenclamide- and cimetidine (50 mg/kg)-pretreated groups, in addition to the non-stressed control group, to demonstrate whether the KATP channel opening activity contributed to nicorandil's gastroprotection. Gastric lesions were induced by water immersion-restraint stress (WIRS) and ulcer indices were determined. Gastric juice parameters (pH, free and total acid output, and pepsin and mucin concentrations) were determined for each group. Another group of rats was divided into control, saline-pretreated and nicorandil (2 mg/kg)-pretreated subgroups. The rats were subjected to 5 h of WIRS and the stomachs were used for determination of gastric mucosal levels of lipid peroxides, histamine, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and total nitrites. Nicorandil displayed significant protection against gastric lesions formation. Glibenclamide, when administered concomitantly with nicorandil, abolished its protective effects. Nicorandil significantly reduced gastric acid secretion and pepsin concentration, but upon co-administration with glibenclamide, these effects were blocked. Additionally, nicorandil significantly reduced gastric mucosal lipid peroxides and total nitrites back to near normal levels and significantly increased gastric mucosal PGE2, but did not alter significantly histamine levels. The results confirm a gastroprotective effect for nicorandil, the mechanism of which comprises KATP channel opening, free radical scavenging, PGE2 elevation, decrease of proteolytic activity and acid output and prevention of the detrimental increase of nitric oxide during WIRS, probably, by inhibiting iNOS activity.

Aim: This study investigated possible mechanisms underlying the gastroprotective effect of nicorandil on experimentally-induced gastric lesions in rats., Methods: Rats were randomly assigned to vehicle-, nicorandil (10 mg/kg)-, glibenclamide (6 mg/kg)-, nicorandil + glibenclamide- and cimetidine-pretreated groups, in addition to non-stressed control group, to demonstrate whether the K(ATP )channel opening contributed to nicorandil's gastroprotection. Lesions were induced by water immersion-restraint stress (WIRS) and ulcer indices were determined. Gastric juice parameters (pH, acid output, pepsin and mucin concentrations) were determined. Another set of rats was divided into control, saline-pretreated and nicorandil (10 mg/kg)-pretreated groups. Rats underwent WIRS and their stomachs were used for determination of gastric mucosal lipid peroxides, histamine, PGE(2), and total nitrites levels., Results: Nicorandil displayed significant protection against gastric lesions formation, abolished by concomitant administration of glibenclamide. Nicorandil significantly reduced gastric acid and pepsin secretion, but upon coadministration with glibenclamide, these effects were blocked. Additionally, nicorandil significantly reduced gastric mucosal lipid peroxides and total nitrites, but did not affect PGE(2) and histamine levels., Conclusion: Results confirm a gastroprotective effect for nicorandil, the mechanism of which comprises K(ATP) channel opening, free radical scavenging, decrease of pepsin and acid secretion and prevention of the detrimental rise in nitric oxide during WIRS.

The success of endodontic therapy requires a knowledge of the internal and external dental anatomy and its variations in presentation. The internal anatomy of the maxillary central incisor is well known and usually presents with one root and one radicular canal system. This case report describes an endodontic treatment of a maxillary central incisor with two roots and two canal systems, demonstrated by radiography and computerized tomography examinations.

Purpose: Lymph node invasion (LNI) is associated with increased risk of prostate cancer progression. Unfortunately, pelvic lymph node dissections are fraught with a high rate of false-negative findings, emphasizing the need for highly accurate markers of LNI. Because nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) is a candidate marker of prostate cancer progression, we tested the association between nuclear localization of NF-kappaB in radical prostatectomy specimens and the presence of LNI., Experimental Design: NF-kappaB expression in radical prostatectomy specimens was assessed with a monoclonal NF-kappaB p65 antibody, in 20 patients with LNI and in 31 controls with no LNI and no biochemical relapse 5 years after radical prostatectomy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used. The accuracy of multivariate predictions with and without NF-kappaB was quantified with the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve and 200 bootstrap resamples were used to reduce overfit bias., Results: Univariate regression models showed a 7% increase in the odds of observing LNI for each 1% increase in NF-kappaB nuclear staining (odds ratio, 1.07; P = 0.003). In multivariate models, each 1% increase in NF-kappaB was associated with an 8% increase in the odds of LNI (odds ratio, 1.08; P = 0.03) and its statistical significance was only surpassed by the presence of seminal vesicle invasion (P = 0.003). Addition of NF-kappaB to all other predictors increased the accuracy of LNI prediction by 2.3% (from 84.8% to 87.1%; P < 0.001)., Conclusion: This is the first study that shows that the extent of nuclear localization of NF-kappaB in primary prostate tumors is highly accurately capable of predicting the probability of locoregional spread of prostate cancer.

Irradiation is an effective technology in eliminating Listeria monocytogenes, but it induces quality changes in meat products at or above specific radiation doses. To minimize irradiation-induced quality changes, only low irradiation doses are recommended. However, low-dose irradiation provides a chance for some pathogens to survive and proliferate during prolonged storage. To solve this problem, antimicrobial ingredients [2% sodium lactate (SL), 0.1% sodium diacetate (SDA), 0.1% potassium benzoate (PB)] and low-dose irradiation were combined and tested for their effects on the growth of L. monocytogenes and meat quality. The log10 reductions of L. monocytogenes in hams following exposure to 1.0 to 2.5 kGy of irradiation ranged from 2.0 to 5.0. The D10 values were 0.52 kGy for control ham or ham with PB, SL, or PB + SL; 0.49 kGy for ham with SL+SDA; and 0.48 kGy for ham with PB + SL + SDA (PSS). Addition of SL + SDA or PB + SL in combination with 1.0 kGy of irradiation was effective in suppressing the growth of L. monocytogenes for about 6 wk when stored at 4 degrees C, whereas 2.0 kGy of irradiation was listeriostatic. Ham irradiated with 1 kGy in combination with PSS was listeriostatic throughout storage. SL increased firmness of turkey hams, and sensory panelists noted that the saltiness was a little higher in products containing SL, but its overall impact on quality was minimal. Amounts of benzene were detected in irradiated hams with PB, showing PB was not fit as an antimicrobial ingredient for irradiated foods. In conclusion, 2% SL and 0.1% SDA in combination with low-dose irradiation were effective in ensuring the safety of ready-to-eat meat products against L. monocytogenes.

Introduction: Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) is a transcription factor that transactivates genes involved in the regulation of cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Our aim was to assess NF-kappaB expression in lymph node (LN) metastases of prostate cancer., Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was performed using the p65 anti-NF-kappaB antibody. Seventy-seven paraffin-embedded LN specimens obtained from 54 prostate cancer patients were analyzed. Of the 54 patients, 32 had positive LN metastases, while 22 showed no evidence of metastasis and were considered as controls. The overall percentage of NF-kappaB-nuclear localization was assessed, as well as the intensity of staining., Results: Nuclear localization of NF-kappaB was significantly greater in the metastatic LN group compared to controls. In patients with positive-LN metastases, 84.4% showed >10% nuclear staining in tumor cells. Moreover, 64.4% of the malignant LN specimens had >10% nuclear staining in lymphocytes compared to 0% in controls. Intensity of cytoplasmic and nuclear staining was higher in the metastatic LN group than in controls (P < 0.01)., Conclusions: Nuclear localization/activation of NF-kappaB is up-regulated in prostate cancer LN metastasis. Such up-regulation of NF-kappaB activity is observed in the tumor cells as well as in the surrounding lymphocytes., (Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

Objective: To examine the relationship of serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) with histological cancer characteristics in men undergoing transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)-guided biopsy., Patients and Methods: Patients (652), with either an elevated serum prostate-specific antigen level or an abnormal digital rectal examination, were initially evaluated by TRUS and sextant prostatic needle biopsy. Blood was drawn before biopsy, serum extracted and stored frozen until IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 were measured. In all, 241 patients had prostate cancer (37%) and were included in this study. The number of positive biopsies, the volume of tumour in each positive biopsy and the Gleason score were recorded., Results: Of the 241 patients, 37 had five or six positive biopsies (from six), 128 had two to four and 76 had one. Serum IGF-1 did not correlate with the number of positive biopsies, with means of 176.7, 178.3 and 164.4 ng/mL, respectively (P = 0.3), while the mean IGFBP-3 was 2695, 2795 and 2572 ng/mL, respectively (P = 0.09). The additive percentiles of tumour volume in positive biopsies were assessed for each patient but serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 did not correlate (P = 0.7 and 0.9, respectively). In all, 92 patients had a Gleason score of < 7, 80 a score of 7 and 69 a score of > 7; the mean (sd) IGF-1 levels for the three groups were 181 (39), 174.6 (35) and 176 (26) ng/mL, and the mean IGFBP-3 2798 (240), 2735 (284) and 2647 (221) ng/mL, respectively, none of the differences being statistically significant., Conclusions: Serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 do not correlate with quantity of cancer or Gleason score in biopsy samples from patients with prostate cancer.

A D-enantiomeric analog of the submandibular gland rat-1 tripeptide FEG (Seq: NH(3)(+)-Phe-Glu-Gly-COO(-)) called feG (Seq: NH(3)(+)-D-Phe-D-Glu-Gly-COO(-)) was examined by molecular dynamics simulations in water. Previous in vacuo simulations suggested a conformation consisting predominantly of interactions between the Phe side chain and glutamyl-carboxyl group and a carboxyl/amino termini interaction. The solvated peptide was simulated using two approaches which were compared-a single 400-ns simulation and a "simulation tree." The "tree" approach utilized 45 10-ns simulations with different conformations used as initial structures for given trajectories. We demonstrate that multiple short duration simulations are able to describe the same conformational space as that described by longer simulations. Furthermore, previously described in vacuo interactions were confirmed with amendments: the previously described head-to-tail arrangement of the amino and carboxyl termini, was not observed; the interaction between the glutamyl carboxyl and Phe side chain describes only one of a continuum of conformations present wherein the aromatic residue remains in close proximity to the glutamyl carbonyl group, and also interacts with either of the two available carboxyl groups. Finally, utilizing only two separate 10-ns trajectories, we were able to better describe the conformational space than a single 60-ns trajectory, realizing a threefold decrease in the computational complexity of the problem.

Stigmasterol, which differs from beta-sitosterol by unsaturation at C22, was tested for antihypercholesterolemic activity under an experimental protocol that gave the results expected with beta-sitosterol and cholestyramine. In terms of serum cholesterol, stigmasterol had a barely significant antihypercholesterolemic effect while exhibiting no obvious effect on the heart or liver. It was concluded that saturation of the side chain, at least at C22, is important in conferring antihypercholesterolemic activity on a sterol.