|
| ||
|
|
||
Biochemical Tests (biochemical + test)
Selected AbstractsThe coupling of biological iron cycling and mineral weathering during saprolite formation, Luquillo Mountains, Puerto RicoGEOBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2005H. L. BUSS ABSTRACT Corestones of quartz diorite bedrock in the Rio Icacos watershed in Puerto Rico weather spheroidally to form concentric sets of partially weathered rock layers (referred to here as rindlets) that slowly transform to saprolite. The rindlet zone (0.2,2 m thick) is overlain by saprolite (2,8 m) topped by soil (0.5,1 m). With the objective of understanding interactions between weathering, substrate availability, and resident micro-organisms, we made geochemical and microbiological measurements as a function of depth in 5 m of regolith (soil + saprolite). We employed direct microscopic counting of total cell densities; enumeration of culturable aerobic heterotrophs; extraction of microbial DNA for yield calculations; and biochemical tests for iron-oxidizing bacteria. Total cell densities, which ranged from 2.5 × 106 to 1.6 × 1010 g,1 regolith, were higher than 108 g,1 at three depths: in the upper 1 m, at 2.1 m, and between 3.7 and 4.9 m, just above the rindlet zone. High proportions of inactive or unculturable cells were indicated throughout the profile by very low percentages of culturable heterotrophs (0.0004% to 0.02% of total cell densities). The observed increases in total and culturable cells and DNA yields at lower depths were not correlated with organic carbon or total iron but were correlated with moisture and HCl-extractable iron. Biochemical tests for aerobic iron-oxidizers were also positive at 0.15,0.6 m, at 2.1,2.4 m, and at 4.9 m depths. To interpret microbial populations within the context of weathering reactions, we developed a model for estimating growth rates of lithoautotrophs and heterotrophs based on measured substrate fluxes. The calculations and observations are consistent with a model wherein electron donor flux driving bacterial growth at the saprolite,bedrock interface is dominated by Fe(II) and where autotrophic iron-oxidizing bacteria support the heterotrophic population and contribute to bedrock disaggregation and saprolite formation. [source] Evaluation of Intravenous Pamidronate Administration in 33 Cancer-Bearing Dogs with Primary or Secondary Bone InvolvementJOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2005Timothy M. Fan The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical safety of pamidronate when administered at a mean dosage of 1.0 mg/kg IV q28d in 33 tumor-bearing dogs. Biochemical tests of renal function were evaluated before each successive pamidronate treatment. Of 33 dogs treated with pamidronate, 1 dog had clinically relevant increases in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen concentrations. The biologic activity of IV pamidronate was assessed prospectively in 10 dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma and was assessed on reductions in urine N-telopeptide excretion (P= .042) and enhanced bone mineral density of the primary tumor measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (P= .024). Additionally, in these 10 dogs, pamidronate's therapeutic activity was supported by subjective improvement in pain control in 4 of the 10 dogs treated. IV pamidronate appears clinically safe in tumor-bearing dogs and may possess modest biologic activity for managing neoplastic complications associated with pathologic bone resorption. [source] Intestinal microbiota variation in Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis) under different feeding regimesAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 11 2007Beatriz Martin-Antonio Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the feeding regimes in Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis) cultured under extensive, semi-extensive and intensive production systems. A total of 254 bacterial isolates from guts of fish cultured under different production systems and feeding regimes were tested. Biochemical tests and genetic analyses based on the 16S rDNA sequence analysis were conduced to identify bacterial strains. Vibrio species were the most represented taxonomic group in the culturable microbiota of S. senegalensis guts tested. Particularly, Vibrio ichthyoenteri was the most frequently isolated Vibrio species. Comparison among diets showed a significant reduction (P<0.05) in vibrio percentages and a higher occurrence of Shewanella species in Senegalese soles fed polychaeta. In addition, a major influence of environmental temperature on microbiota composition was detected. Cold temperatures brought about a change in the percentages of Vibrio species and a higher representation of ,-Proteobacteria in both outdoor systems (extensive and semi-extensive). The significant differences between intestinal bacterial composition in Senegalese soles fed commercial diets and natural preys (polychaeta) reveal the necessity to develop specific optimized diets for the intensive rearing of this fish species. [source] Characterization of yellow-pigmented and motile enterococci isolated from intestines of the garden snail Helix aspersaJOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 5 2002Aims: Enterococci associated with garden snails (Helix aspersa) were studied in order to obtain reliable species identification and characterization. Methods and Results: Twelve yellow-pigmented and motile enterococci, isolated from the intestines of garden snails, were phenotypically close to Enterococcus casseliflavus, but they showed certain unusual biochemical characteristics. tRNA intergenic length polymorphism analysis (tDNA-PCR) divided all strains studied into two groups, in full agreement with biochemical test results. 16S rDNA sequencing, DNA base composition analysis and DNA-DNA hybridization results showed unambiguously that the enterococci studied belonged to the species Ent. casseliflavus. The representative strains of described ecovars were deposited in the Czech Collection of Microorganisms (CCM) as Ent. casseliflavus CCM 4868, 4869, 4870 and 4871. Conclusions:Enterococcus casseliflavus associated with garden snails can be subdivided into groups. Significance and Impact of the Study:Enterococcus casseliflavus differs from other enterococcal species in that it is typically associated with plants, soil, water and invertebrate animals. The different groups that can be found in these widely occurring bacteria are possibly source-specific ecovars, as exemplified by the Ent. casseliflavus inhabiting the intestines of snails. [source] Maternal serum biochemistry at 11,13+6 weeks in relation to the presence or absence of the fetal nasal bone on ultrasonography in chromosomally abnormal fetuses: an updated analysis of integrated ultrasound and biochemical screeningPRENATAL DIAGNOSIS, Issue 11 2005Simona Cicero Abstract Background Screening for trisomy 21 by a combination of maternal age, fetal nuchal translucency (NT) thickness and maternal serum free ,-hCG and pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) at 11,13+6 weeks of gestation is associated with a detection rate of 90%, for a false-positive rate of 5%. Recent evidence suggests that in about 70% of fetuses with trisomy 21 the nasal bone is not visible at the 11,13+6 week scan and that the frequency of absence of nasal bone differs in different ethnic groups. In addition, there is a relationship between absent nasal bone and nuchal translucency thickness. In a preliminary study we showed that while PAPP-A levels were lower and free ,-hCG levels were higher in trisomy 21 fetuses with an absent nasal bone, this difference was not statistically different. In fetuses with trisomy 13 and trisomy 18, there is also a high (57 and 67%) incidence of an absent nasal bone. The aim of this present study was to extend our examination of whether the level of maternal serum biochemical markers is independent of the presence or absence of the nasal bone in cases with trisomy 21 and to ascertain if any differences exist in cases with trisomies 13 and 18. Methods This study data comprised 100 trisomy 21 singleton pregnancies at 11,13+6 weeks of gestation from our previous study and an additional 42 cases analysed as part of routine OSCAR screening. A total of 34 cases with trisomy 18 and 12 cases with trisomy 13 were also available. Ultrasound examination was carried out for measurement of fetal NT and assessment of the presence or absence of the fetal nasal bone. Maternal serum free ,-hCG and PAPP-A were measured using the Kryptor rapid random access immunoassay analyser (Brahms Diagnostica AG, Berlin). The distribution of maternal serum free ,-hCG and PAPP-A in chromosomally abnormal fetuses with absent and present nasal bone was examined. Results The nasal bone was absent in 29 and present in 13 of the new trisomy 21 cases and in 98 (69%) and 44 respectively in the combined series. For the trisomy 18 cases, the nasal bone was absent in 19 (55.9%) cases and in 3 (25%) of cases of trisomy 13. There were no significant differences in median maternal age, median gestational age, NT delta, free ,-hCG MoM and PAPP-A MoM in trisomy 21 fetuses with and without a visible nasal bone, and similarly for those with trisomies 13 or 18. For a false-positive rate of 5%, it was estimated that screening with the four markers in combination with maternal age would be associated with a detection rate of 96% of cases with trisomy 21. For a false-positive rate of 0.5%, the detection rate was 88%. Conclusions There is no relationship between an absent fetal nasal bone and the levels of maternal serum PAPP-A or free ,-hCG in cases with trisomies 13, 18 or 21. An integrated sonographic and biochemical test at 11,13+6 weeks can potentially identify about 88% of trisomy 21 fetuses for a false-positive rate of 0.5%. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Integrated ultrasound and biochemical screening for trisomy 21 using fetal nuchal translucency, absent fetal nasal bone, free ,-hCG and PAPP-A at 11 to 14 weeksPRENATAL DIAGNOSIS, Issue 4 2003Simona Cicero Abstract Background Screening for trisomy 21 by a combination of maternal age, fetal nuchal translucency (NT) thickness and maternal serum free ,-hCG and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) at 11 to 14 weeks of gestation is associated with a detection rate of 90% for a false-positive rate of 5%. Recent evidence suggests that in about 70% of fetuses with trisomy 21, the nasal bone is not visible at the 11th- to 14th-week scan (Cicero et al., 2001). The aim of this study was to examine whether fetal NT thickness and the level of maternal serum biochemical markers is independent of the presence or absence of the nasal bone, and to estimate the performance of a screening test that integrates the two sonographic and the two biochemical markers. Methods This was a retrospective case-control study comprising 100 trisomy 21 and 400 chromosomally normal singleton pregnancies at 11 to 14 weeks of gestation. Ultrasound examination was carried out for measurement of fetal NT and assessment of the presence or absence of the fetal nasal bone. Maternal serum free ,-hCG and PAPP-A were measured using the Kryptor rapid random-access immunoassay analyser (Brahms Diagnostica GmbH, Berlin). The distribution of fetal NT, maternal serum free ,-hCG and PAPP-A in trisomy 21 fetuses with absent and present nasal bone was examined. Results The nasal bone was absent in 69 and present in 31 of the trisomy 21 fetuses. There were no significant differences in median maternal age, median gestational age, NT delta, free ,-hCG MoM and PAPP-A MoM in trisomy 21 fetuses with and without a visible nasal bone. For a false-positive rate of 5%, it was estimated that screening with the four markers in combination with maternal age would be associated with a detection rate of 97%. For a false-positive rate of 0.5%, the detection rate was 90.5%. Conclusions An integrated sonographic and biochemical test at 11 to 14 weeks can potentially identify about 90% of trisomy 21 fetuses for a false-positive rate of 0.5%. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] The use of nuchal translucency measurement and second trimester biochemical markers in screening for Down's SyndromeBJOG : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 10 2001G.D. Michailidis Objective To assess the effectiveness of antenatal screening for trisomy 21 by first trimester sonography followed by second trimester biochemical screening. Design Retrospective five-year review. Setting Maternity unit of a university hospital. Population An unselected group of 7447 pregnant women who had a first trimester scan and nuchal translucency measurement in our unit after January 1995 and had an estimated date of delivery before 1 January 2000. 11.9% were , 37 years old. A subgroup (n=4864) also had second trimester biochemical testing by alpha-fetoprotein and free ,-human chorionic gonadotrophin. Main outcome measures Prenatal and postnatal diagnosis of trisomy 21. Results There were 23 fetuses affected with trisomy 21. The overall prenatal detection rate was 87% (20/23; 95% CI 66% to 97%) and we performed invasive procedures in 8.5% of our population. First trimester sonography identified 74% (95% CI 51.6% to 89.8%) of affected fetuses. Second trimester biochemical screening detected half of the fetuses with trisomy 21 which were missed by first trimester screening, increasing the sensitivity to 90.5% (19/21; 95% CI 69.6% to 98.8%) for an invasive procedure rate of 4.2% performed in screened positive women. However, the positive predictive value of the biochemical test was very low (0.5%). In screen negative women, karyotyping for advanced maternal age did not detect any affected fetuses. Conclusion First trimester nuchal translucency measurement is an effective screening test for the prenatal detection of fetuses with Down's Syndrome. Although the measurement of biochemical markers in the second trimester can detect additional affected fetuses this may be outweighed by the delay in diagnosis, the extra visits and cost so that the right time for biochemical screening is most likely to be in the first trimester. [source] Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) and Diabetes-UK survey of specialist diabetes services in the UK, 2006.DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 6 2008Abstract Aims To identify the views and working practices of consultant diabetologists in the UK in 2006,2007, the current provision of specialist services, and to examine changes since 2000. Methods All 592 UK consultant diabetologists were invited to participate in an on-line survey. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of responses were undertaken. A composite ,well-resourced service score' was calculated. In addition to an analysis of all respondents, a sub-analysis was undertaken, comparing localities represented both in 2006/2007 and in 2000. Results In 2006/2007, a 49% response rate was achieved, representing 50% of acute National Health Service Trusts. Staffing levels had improved, but remained below recommendations made in 2000. Ten percent of specialist services were still provided by single-handed consultants, especially in Northern Ireland (in 50% of responses, P = 0.001 vs. other nations). Antenatal, joint adult,paediatric and ophthalmology sub-specialist diabetes services and availability of biochemical tests had improved since 2000, but access to psychology services had declined. Almost 90% of consultants had no clinical engagement in providing community diabetes services. The ,well-resourced service score' had not improved since 2000. There was continued evidence of disparity in resources between the nations (lowest in Wales and Northern Ireland, P = 0.007), between regions in England (lowest in the East Midlands and the Eastern regions, P = 0.028), and in centres with a single-handed consultant service (P = 0.001). Job satisfaction correlated with well-resourced service score (P = 0.001). The main concerns and threats to specialist services were deficiencies in psychology access, inadequate staffing, lack of progress in commissioning, and the detrimental impact of central policy on specialist services. Conclusions There are continued disparities in specialist service provision. Without effective commissioning and adequate specialist team staffing, integrated diabetes care will remain unattainable in many regions, regardless of reconfigurations and alternative service models. [source] Usefulness of R72H PCR assay for differentiation between Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio alginolyticus species: validation by DNA,DNA hybridizationFEMS MICROBIOLOGY LETTERS, Issue 1 2002Annick Robert-Pillot Abstract We compared the efficiencies of biochemical methods and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains. The 122 isolates studied, identified by biochemical tests as V. parahaemolyticus or Vibrio alginolyticus, were tested by R72H PCR assay. The results obtained with the two methods were consistent for 90% of the strains studied. PCR amplification of the R72H fragment generated two unique amplicons, 387 bp and 320 bp in length. For 11% of the strains from seawater, the results of biochemical identification did not correlate with PCR results. DNA,DNA hybridization experiments provided evidence that some strains identified as V. alginolyticus in biochemical tests should be considered members of the V. parahaemolyticus species. We therefore suggest that biochemical tests are not accurate enough for the identification of V. parahaemolyticus isolates and we demonstrate that amplification of the R72H fragment, whether the amplicon is 320 bp or 387 bp long, is a powerful tool for the reliable identification of V. parahaemolyticus. [source] The coupling of biological iron cycling and mineral weathering during saprolite formation, Luquillo Mountains, Puerto RicoGEOBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2005H. L. BUSS ABSTRACT Corestones of quartz diorite bedrock in the Rio Icacos watershed in Puerto Rico weather spheroidally to form concentric sets of partially weathered rock layers (referred to here as rindlets) that slowly transform to saprolite. The rindlet zone (0.2,2 m thick) is overlain by saprolite (2,8 m) topped by soil (0.5,1 m). With the objective of understanding interactions between weathering, substrate availability, and resident micro-organisms, we made geochemical and microbiological measurements as a function of depth in 5 m of regolith (soil + saprolite). We employed direct microscopic counting of total cell densities; enumeration of culturable aerobic heterotrophs; extraction of microbial DNA for yield calculations; and biochemical tests for iron-oxidizing bacteria. Total cell densities, which ranged from 2.5 × 106 to 1.6 × 1010 g,1 regolith, were higher than 108 g,1 at three depths: in the upper 1 m, at 2.1 m, and between 3.7 and 4.9 m, just above the rindlet zone. High proportions of inactive or unculturable cells were indicated throughout the profile by very low percentages of culturable heterotrophs (0.0004% to 0.02% of total cell densities). The observed increases in total and culturable cells and DNA yields at lower depths were not correlated with organic carbon or total iron but were correlated with moisture and HCl-extractable iron. Biochemical tests for aerobic iron-oxidizers were also positive at 0.15,0.6 m, at 2.1,2.4 m, and at 4.9 m depths. To interpret microbial populations within the context of weathering reactions, we developed a model for estimating growth rates of lithoautotrophs and heterotrophs based on measured substrate fluxes. The calculations and observations are consistent with a model wherein electron donor flux driving bacterial growth at the saprolite,bedrock interface is dominated by Fe(II) and where autotrophic iron-oxidizing bacteria support the heterotrophic population and contribute to bedrock disaggregation and saprolite formation. [source] Dialysis adequacy and nutritional status of hemodialysis patientsHEMODIALYSIS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2008Fernanda TEIXEIRA NUNES Abstract To characterize the nutritional status of renal failure patients and its relationship with hemodialysis adequacy measured by Kt/V, a study was carried out with a population of 44 adult patients with renal failure and mean age 51±15 years. Anthropometric data, such as dry weight, height, arm circumference, triceps skinfold thickness, mid-arm muscle circumference, and body mass index were assessed, and biochemical tests were conducted for urea, potassium, creatinine, serum albumin, and phosphorus levels, in addition to hemogram and quarterly urea reduction rate average (Kt/V). In order to evaluate calorie intake, a dietary questionnaire on habitual daily food ingestion was administered, taking into consideration the hemodialysis date. The patients were divided into 2 separate groups for the statistical analysis, with 50% of the patients in each group: A (Kt/V<1.2) and B (Kt/V>1.2). The data were tabulated as mean and standard deviation, with differences tested by Student's t test. The correlations between variables were established by the coefficient p of Pearson. Most of the patients (43%) were considered eutrophic, based on the BMI, and presented inadequate calorie intake, corresponding to 88.5±24% (30.8 kcal/kg actual weight) of the total energy required and adequate protein intake, reaching 109.9±40% of the recommended daily allowance (1.24 g/kg of actual weight). There was a correlation of Kt/V with anthropometric parameters such as body mass index, arm circumference, and mid-arm muscle circumference. The biochemical parameters related to dialysis adequacy were albumin, ferritin, and urea (predialysis). Well-dialyzed patients presented better levels of serum albumin. There was an influence of gender and age on correlations of the analyzed variables. Female and younger patients presented better dialysis adequacy. The dialysis adequacy was related to the nutritional status and influenced by the protein intake and body composition. Gender and age had an important influence in the dialysis adequacy, as men presented lower dialysis adequacy and younger adults presented better dialysis adequacy. Further research is necessary to understand better how to facilitate effective and efficient techniques for the nutritional status assessment of hemodialysis patients. [source] Effect of acetate-free biofiltration with a potassium-profiled dialysate on the control of cardiac arrhythmias in patients at risk: A pilot studyHEMODIALYSIS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2008Rosa I. MUÑOZ Abstract Cardiac arrhythmias are a frequent event in chronic hemodialysis patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acetate-free hemofiltration with potassium-profiled dialysate (AFB-K) dialysis compared with constant potassium acetate-free biofiltration (AFB). Twelve patients (mean age 79 years) affected by cardiac arrhythmias or at a high risk for arrhythmia (advanced age, hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, heart valve disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation) participated in a single-center, sequential cohort study. All were treated with hemodialysis 3 times per week, using constant potassium AFB for the first 3 weeks, followed by an AFB-K dialysate for the subsequent 3 weeks. The hemofilter, duration of dialysis, and electrolyte concentration were the same in both treatments. Both AFB-K and constant potassium AFB dialytic techniques were safe and well tolerated. The results of biochemical tests were similar, except for serum potassium levels after 2 hr of dialysis, which were significantly higher in the AFB-K group (4.0 mmol/L) than in the constant potassium AFB group (3.6 mmol/L) (p<0.001). All cardiac variables improved during AFB-K dialysis. There was a significant reduction of postdialysis QT intervals corrected for heart rate in the AFB-K group (448.8 ms) compared with the constant potassium AFB group (456.8 ms) (p=0.039). The severity and mean number of ventricular extasystoles also decreased (163.5 vs. 444.5/24 hr). Potassium profiling during hemodialysis treatment may be beneficial for patients with arrhythmias or at those risk of arrhythmias, particularly those with predialysis hyperkalemia. [source] Reversibility of hepatic fibrosis in treated genetic hemochromatosis: A study of 36 cases,HEPATOLOGY, Issue 2 2006Ludivine Falize The current study was undertaken to assess whether fibrosis could regress under venesection therapy in patients with C282Y homozygous genetic hemochromatosis. The 36 patients studied were recruited from a subfile of our database consisting of 125 C282Y homozygotes with either severe fibrosis or cirrhosis (F3 or F4 fibrosis stage, respectively, according to the METAVIR grading system). The second liver biopsy was performed for management of liver cancer, extrahepatic surgery, or assessment of liver fibrosis. All paired biopsies were reviewed by two pathologists without knowledge of clinical data. Among the 13 patients who had F3 fibrosis on their initial liver biopsy, 3 had F0, 6 had F1, and 2 had F2 on their second liver biopsy. Among the 23 patients with cirrhosis on their initial liver biopsy, 1 had F0, 4 had F1, 3 had F2, and 2 had F3 on their second liver biopsy. When defining regression of fibrosis as a decrease of at least 2 METAVIR units, fibrosis regressed in 9 of 13 (69%) F3 and in 8 of 23 (35%) F4. When the ratio of gammaglobulins (g/L) to (platelets [n/mm3] × prothrombin activity [%]) was greater than 7.5, fibrosis never regressed. In conclusion, these data extend the concept of regression of fibrosis to patients with treated genetic hemochromatosis and suggest that some simple biochemical tests would be predictive of further regression of fibrosis as a result of venesection therapy. If confirmed on larger series, this could modify the ultrasound screening policy of hepatocellular carcinoma in genetic hemochromatosis. (HEPATOLOGY 2006;44:472,477.) [source] Low-grade fever: how to distinguish organic from non-organic formsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 3 2010M. Affronti Summary Background and aim:, Low-grade fever (LGF) is defined as a body temperature between 37.5 and 38.3 °C, which is below the classical value reported for fever of unknown origin (FUO). We attempted to characterise its epidemiology, aetiology and clinical aspects to improve the methodological approach to diagnosis. Design and Methods:, We reviewed and evaluated a survey of patients with LGF, followed as outpatients of our Department, a tertiary referral centre from 1997 to 2008. The same classifications were applied for classical FUO, and in the patients diagnosed with LGF, we also investigated for habitual hyperthermia (HH). Results:, Seventy-three patients were selected and divided into two groups: group A included 32 patients classified with organic fever and group B included 41 patients with HH. Aetiology of organic LGF was: infectious disease 59%; neoplasm 3.1%; inflammatory non-infectious disease 6.2%; miscellaneous 18.7%; undiagnosed 12.5%. Mean age was significantly higher in the organic fever than in the HH group (p < 0.02). Splenomegaly and loss of weight were significantly associated with organic fever (p < 0.05), while dizziness and general malaise were associated with HH. Lack of any pathological signs at physical examination was significantly more frequent in HH (p < 0.0001). Among the biochemical tests, white blood cells and C-reactive protein were more frequently above normal limits in group A than in group B (p < 0.05). Conclusions:, In our experience, LGF requires the same methodological diagnostic approach as FUO, because there is no relationship between body temperature values and the severity of the underlying diseases, and the aetiological spectrum is also the same. [source] Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities for the evaluation of patients with chronic hepatitisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 7 2008M. Aslan Summary The sensitivity of standard biochemical tests for liver function is low and insufficient for a reliable determination of the presence or absence of liver disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities and lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) levels, and to find out that whether the measurement of serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities would be useful as an index of liver function status in chronic hepatitis (CH). Fourty-four patients with CH (24 CHB and 20 CHC) and 38 controls were enrolled. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were detected spectrophotometrically. LOOH levels were measured by the FOX-2 assay. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were significantly lower in patients with CH than controls (p < 0.001 for both), while LOOH levels were significantly higher (p < 0.001). Paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were inversely correlated with LOOH levels (r = ,0.394, p < 0.05; r =,0.362, p < 0.05, respectively). Fibrosis scores of CH patients were significantly correlated with paraoxonase and arylesterase activities and LOOH levels (r =,0.276, p < 0.05; r = ,0.583, p < 0.001 and r = 0.562, p < 0.001, respectively). Our results indicated that decrease in the activities paraoxonase and arylesterase may play a role in the pathogenesis of CH. In addition, serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities measurement may add a significant contribution to the liver function tests. [source] The characteristics and outcome of primary vesicoureteric reflux diagnosed in the first year of lifeINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 7 2006F. Papachristou Summary A retrospective trial was performed to study presentation, evaluation, management, complications and outcome of 186 infants with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Medical records of 103 male and 83 female infants with mean age at entry 5.97 months were reviewed. Diagnosis was established using radiographic voiding cystourethrogram. At diagnosis, a renal ultrasound and dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy were performed in all children. The follow-up included blood pressure measurements, serial urine cultures, haematological and biochemical tests, radionuclide cystography, renal ultrasounds and renal scintigraphy. The majority of infants with reflux, 176/186, presented with one or more episodes of urinary tract infections. In 113 children, reflux resolved spontaneously, 27 underwent surgical or endoscopic correction and 46 are being followed-up to date. Spontaneous resolution after prophylaxis was more frequent in boys (p < 0.0001), in children with grade I or II (p < 0.0001) and unilateral reflux at diagnosis (p = 0.0215). No significant difference could be established with respect to the presence of scars (p = 0.1680) and the number of breakthrough urinary tract infections (p = 0.1078). The data of the present study indicate that spontaneous resolution rate is high in infants, and therefore, early antireflux surgery should be avoided. [source] A case of erythema elevatum diutinum associated with breast carcinomaINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 11 2005Fikriye Yilmaz MD A 53-year-old woman diagnosed with invasive ductal-type breast carcinoma was referred to our clinic with red,purple lesions on the hands and legs. She had neither pruritus nor pain. The first lesion developed on the dorsal hand. In the following days, new lesions appeared on the extensor surface of the legs. The patient had been treated with modified radical mastectomy and three courses of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, and fluorouracil chemotherapy. Dermatologic examination revealed reddish-violaceous papules and plaques ranging from a few millimeters to 2 cm in diameter, bilaterally located on the dorsal hands, especially over the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints (Fig. 1). Multiple red,purple, circumscribed papules and plaques of various diameters were observed bilaterally over the shins (Fig. 2). The largest of these plaques showed an annular configuration. The nails showed distal subungual keratosis and yellow discoloration. The rest of the physical examination was normal. Figure 1. Violaceous papules and plaques on the dorsal hands Figure 2. Red,purple, circumscribed, papules and plaques over the shins A biopsy taken from the medial side of the shin revealed a predominantly neutrophilic infiltrate and nuclear dust around the dermal vessels and orthokeratotic stratum corneum (Fig. 3). Figure 3. Predominantly neutrophilic infiltrate and nuclear dust around the dermal vessels and orthokeratotic stratum corneum (hematoxylin and eosin stain, ×100) Complete blood count, routine biochemical tests and fasting lipids, serologic tests of bacterial and viral agents, serum electrophoresis, and serologic profiles for autoimmune connective tissue diseases revealed normal results. Mycologic examination of nail clippings did not show any evidence of fungal infection. In the light of our clinical and histopathologic findings, a diagnosis of erythema elevatum diutinum was made, and the patient was given topical clobetasol propionate therapy. Complete clearance was achieved in 3 weeks (Fig. 4). After six courses of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, and fluorouracil chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, no recurrence of erythema elevatum diutinum lesions was observed. Figure 4. Healed lesion 3 weeks after high-potency topical glucocorticoids [source] Safety evaluation of individual non-fried and fried sunflower oil, paraffin oil, jojoba oil and their binary mixtures on rat healthINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 10 2008Radwan S. Farag Summary Sunflower, jojoba, paraffin oils and binary oil mixtures of sunflower, jojoba and sunflower,paraffin oils were continuously heated at 180 °C for 12 h. Aliquots of potato chips were fried in the aforementioned oil samples. Organoleptic tests were performed on fried chips and safety limits of the oil samples were measured by certain biochemical tests. Histopathological examinations of rat liver and kidney tissues were microscopically done. Organoleptic results for fried potato chips indicate that all types of chips obtained from heated oils were categorised good. Histopathological examinations indicate changes in rat tissues of liver and kidney paralleled the biochemical data. In general, the results suggest that paraffin oil alone and in mixtures with sunflower oil have to ban its use in frying processes. [source] Chemical and microbiological quality of Garris, Sudanese fermented camel's milk productINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 3 2006Abdel Moneim El-Hadi Sulieman Summary In the present study, some of the chemical and microbiological characteristics of garris, a Sudanese traditionally fermented camel's milk product, were investigated. The chemical analyses included, pH, titrable acidity and ethanol contents. A total of 100 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from twenty samples of traditionally fermented household garris. The selected isolates were phenotypically characterized by their ability to ferment 49 carbohydrates using API 50 CHL kits and additional biochemical tests. LAB dominated the microflora of garris samples, and the major genera were Lactobacillus (74%), followed by Lactococcus (12%), Enterococcus (10%) and Leuconostocs (4%). The most predominant Lactobacillus species were identified as Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei (64 strains), L. fermentum (seven strains) and only three strains as L. plantarum. Most strains produced the enzymes that are relevant to cultured dairy product processing. The Lactococcus species were identified as Lactococcus lactis. The average pH value of the samples was 4.42 ± 0.21. The pH values were accompanied with increasing of titrable acidity which averaged 1.72 ± 0.04%. The relatively high amounts of ethanol detected in all samples (average 1.40 ± 0.03%) together with the high yeasts counts (6.0 ± 0.53 log10 cfu mL,1), indicated that the fermentation process of garris is a yeast-lactic fermentation. [source] Infectious discitis in adults: 9 years experience from Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital in Baghdad, IraqINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 2 2008Riyadh A. SAKENI Abstract Aim:, The objective of this study was to analyse the presentation, aetiology, diagnosis, management, and outcome of infectious discitis. Methods:, A screening prospective case-finding study was carried out at Al-Yarmouk teaching hospital in Baghdad, Iraq from 1997 to 2006. Fifty adult patients (12 men and 38 women) were diagnosed with infectious discitis from different referral sources. The diagnosis was based on laboratory biochemical tests, isolation of micro-organisms from blood and needle aspiration tissue, and radiological investigations including magnetic resonance images (MRI). Results:, Of the 50 cases, 32 (64%) patients presenting within 4 weeks, 94% had pelvic and abdominal surgical interventions, 70% presented with severe neck pain and 36% had neurological deficits. Marked elevation of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and high serum C-reactive protein levels were observed in all patients. Positive blood, percutaneous disc aspiration and surgical exploration samples for Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, E. coli, Pseudomonas aureginosa and Candida albicans were found. Radiological images showed that disc involvement did not exceed more than one intervertebrate disc with two adjacent vertebrae. The clinical outcome was full recovery (86%), residual neurological deficits (10%) and death (4%). Conclusions:, Infectious discitis in adults should be suspected in every case presenting with severe neck or back pain, followed by pelvic or abdominal surgical interventions. Therefore, MRI techniques should be performed on every case and an early empirical antibiotic therapy is advised. [source] Listeria monocytogenes in spontaneous abortions in humans and its detection by multiplex PCRJOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 5 2007S. Kaur Abstract Aim: To assess the extent of Listeria monocytogenes in causation of human spontaneous abortions by isolation methods and PCR analysis for the presence of virulence-associated genes. Methods and Results: A total of 305 samples comprising blood, urine, placental bits, faecal and vaginal swabs were collected from 61 patients with spontaneous abortions. Listeria spp. were isolated from 10 samples collected from nine (14·8%) patients. Confirmation of these isolates was based on biochemical tests, haemolysis on blood agar, CAMP test, phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) assay followed by in vivo pathogenicity tests and multiplex PCR to detect virulence-associated genes (prfA, plcA, hlyA, actA and iap). Three isolates were confirmed as L. monocytogenes. Of these, two isolates turned out to be pathogenic and found to posses all five genes. However, the remaining two haemolytic L. monocytogenes isolates lacking the plcA gene and activity in the PI-PLC assay were found to be nonpathogenic by in vivo tests. Conclusions: The occurrence of pathogenic L. monocytogenes in cases of spontaneous abortions was 3·3%. It seems that the plcA gene and its expression have an important role as essential virulence determinants in pathogenic Listeria spp. Significance and Impact of the Study: The recovery of pathogenic L. monocytogenes isolates from cases of spontaneous abortion indicates the significance of listeric infection in pregnant women. [source] Comparison of 16S rRNA sequencing with conventional and commercial phenotypic techniques for identification of enterococci from the marine environmentJOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2006D.F. Moore Abstract Aims:, To compare accuracy of genus and species level identification of presumptive enterococci isolates from the marine environment using conventional biochemical testing, four commercial identification systems and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Methods and Results:, Ninety-seven environmental bacterial isolates identified as presumptive enterococci on mEI media were tested using conventional and Enterococcus genus screen biochemical tests, four commercial testing systems and 16S rRNA sequencing. Conventional and Enterococcus genus screen biochemical testing, 16S rRNA sequencing and two commercial test systems achieved an accuracy of ,94% for Enterococcus genus confirmation. Conventional biochemical testing and 16S rRNA sequencing achieved an accuracy of ,90% for species level identification. Conclusions:, For confirmation of Enterococcus genus from mEI media, conventional or genus screen biochemical testing, 16S rRNA sequencing and the four commercial systems were correct 79,100% of the time. For speciation to an accuracy of 90% or better, either conventional biochemical testing or 16S rRNA sequencing is required. Significance and Impact of the Study:, Accurate identification of presumptive environmental Enterococcus isolates to genus and species level is an integral part of laboratory quality assurance and further characterization of Enterococcus species from pollution incidents. This investigation determines the ability of six different methods to correctly identify environmental isolates. [source] In vivo acute toxicity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles to mice after intraperitioneal injectionJOURNAL OF APPLIED TOXICOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Jinyuan Chen Abstract Because of its excellent optical performance and electrical properties, TiO2 has a wide range of applications in many fields. It is often considered to be physiologically inert to humans. However, some recent studies have reported that nano-sized TiO2 may generate potential harm to the environment and humans. In this paper the in vivo acute toxicity of nano-sized TiO2 particles to adult mice was investigated. Mice were injected with different dosages of nano-sized TiO2 (0, 324, 648, 972, 1296, 1944 or 2592 mg kg,1). The effects of particles on serum biochemical levels were evaluated at various time points (24 h, 48 h, 7 days and 14 days). Tissues (spleen, heart, lung, kidney and liver) were collected for titanium content analysis and histopathological examination. Treated mice showed signs of acute toxicity such as passive behavior, loss of appetite, tremor and lethargy. Slightly elevated levels of the enzymes alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were found from the biochemical tests of serum whereas blood urea nitrogen was not significantly affected (P <0.05). The accumulation of TiO2 was highest in spleen (P <0.05). TiO2 was also deposited in liver, kidney and lung. Histopathological examinations showed that some TiO2 particles had entered the spleen and caused the lesion of spleen. Thrombosis was found in the pulmonary vascular system, which could be induced by the blocking of blood vessels with TiO2 particles. Moreover, hepatocellular necrosis and apoptosis, hepatic fibrosis, renal glomerulus swelling and interstitial pneumonia associated with alveolar septal thickening were also observed in high-dose groups. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Microtubule-associated protein tau in human prostate cancer cells: Isoforms, phosphorylation, and interactions,JOURNAL OF CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY, Issue 3 2009Skye Souter Abstract Tau is a microtubule-associated protein whose function has been investigated primarily in neurons. Recently, tau expression has been correlated with increased drug resistance in various cancers of non-neuronal tissues. In this report, we investigate the tau expressed in cancerous prostate lines ALVA-31, DU 145, and PC-3. Prostate cancer tau is heat-stable and highly phosphorylated, containing many of the modifications identified in Alzheimer's disease brain tau. RT-PCR and phosphatase treatment indicated that all six alternatively spliced adult brain tau isoforms are expressed in ALVA-31 cells, and isoforms containing exon 6 as well as high molecular weight tau isoforms containing either exon 4A or a larger splice variant of exon 4A are also present. Consistent with its hyperphosphorylated state, a large proportion of ALVA-31 tau does not bind to microtubules, as detected by confocal microscopy and biochemical tests. Finally, endogenous ALVA-31 tau can interact with the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, as demonstrated by co-immunoprecipitations and in vitro protein-binding assays. Our results suggest that tau in prostate cancer cells does not resemble that from normal adult brain and support the hypothesis that tau is a multifunctional protein. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 555,564, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Rating of CCl4 -induced rat liver fibrosis by blood serum glycomicsJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 7 2007Liesbeth Desmyter Abstract Background:, Non-invasive staging of human liver fibrosis is a desirable objective that remains under extensive evaluation. Animal model systems are often used for studying human liver disease and screening antifibrotic compounds. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential use of serum N-glycan profiles to evaluate liver fibrosis in a rat model. Methods:, Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis were induced in rats by oral administration of CCl4. Liver injury was assessed biochemically (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] activity, aspartate aminotransferase [AST] activity and total bilirubin) and histologically. The N-glycan profile (GlycoTest) was performed using DNA sequencer-assisted,fluorophore-assisted carbohydrate electrophoresis technology. In parallel, the effect of cotreatment with antifibrotic interferon-, (IFN-,) was studied. Results:, The biopsy scoring system showed that CCl4 induced early fibrosis (F < 1,2) in rats after 3 weeks of treatment, and cirrhosis (F4) after 12 weeks. Significant increases in ALT activity, AST activity and total bilirubin levels were detected only after 12 weeks of CCl4 treatment. GlycoTest showed three glycans were significantly altered in the CCl4 -goup. Peak 3 started at week 6, at an early stage in fibrosis development (F < 1,2), whereas peaks 4 and 5 occurred at week 9, at which time mild liver fibrosis (F = 1,2) had developed. The changes in the CCl4 -IFN-, group were intermediate between the CCl4 - and the control groups. Conclusion:, The GlycoTest is much more sensitive than biochemical tests for evaluating liver fibrosis/cirrhosis in the rat model. The test can also be used as a non-invasive marker for screening and monitoring the antifibrotic activity of potential therapeutic compounds. [source] MRI in fetal necropsyJOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING, Issue 6 2006FRCR, Jocelyn S. Brookes MB Abstract The fetal autopsy involves a series of investigations of the corpse, most of which are noninvasive and acceptable to the majority of parents and their physicians. The value of the perinatal autopsy is manyfold and well established, and the results can provide a basis for parental and family counseling, inform future obstetric management, and provide audit for prenatal care. Many techniques originally developed for diagnosis, such as histology, biochemical tests, photography, x-rays, and cytogenetic karyotyping, have become standard tools in perinatal autopsies. However, there has been an inexorable decline in the autopsy consent rate over the last 30 years due to social and cultural factors, and perhaps ignorance of the benefits to be derived from the examination. Growing evidence suggests that postmortem fetal MRI can assist the pathologist at autopsy, and in many cases can obviate the need for dissection or at least minimize and focus it. For the majority of cases in which no consent for surgical autopsy is given, MRI together with other noninvasive postmortem tests can provide a great deal of the information that was previously available only from autopsy. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Effect of oral diacerein (DAR) in an experimental hip chondrolysis modelJOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 6 2006Humberto Ken Kitadai Abstract We aimed to reproduce the articular cartilage structural changes in a joint exposed to a metallic implant as in the adolescent pinned hip with persistent joint penetration and secondly, to test the effect of an interleukin inhibitor, diacerein (DAR) in the ensuing articular cartilage lesion. Twenty immature beagles were submitted to a surgical K-wire implantation in the hip with the material left in the joint space for 6 months. Twelve animals were sacrificed for histological and biochemical tests. Eight animals were sacrificed at 10 months (half of them treated with DAR) and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and biochemistry of the articular cartilage. Preoperative and monthly C3 and C4 complement and immunoglobulins serum levels were determined. The histological and the electrophoretic profile changes were significative at 6 months. At 10 months the migration profile (CaCl2) recovered to normal levels in the operated hip and the SEM scores for the acetabulum were similar to the non operated control hip after treatment. The serum level of IgA was elevated at the 4th and 6th month postoperatively. The persistence of a metallic implant resulted in degenerative changes parallel to that described for hip chondrolysis as a complication of in-situ pinning; and the cartilage lesion improved with DAR treatment. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:1240,1248, 2006 [source] Characteristics of Ralstonia solanacearum Biovar N2 Strains in AsiaJOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2005M. Horita Abstract Ralstonia solanacearum biovar N2 strains isolated in Asia were compared by biochemical tests with biovar N2 strains from South America and biovar 2 (race 3) strains from Africa, America, Asia and Europe. Distinct differences were found between Asian and South American strains of biovar N2, and between Asian biovar N2 and biovar 2 strains with respect to their ability to utilize several carbon sources. Using cluster analysis based on repetitive sequence-based polymerase chain reaction (rep-PCR) genomic fingerprints, the Asian biovar N2 strains were divided into two groups, group 1 containing Japanese strains and group 2 containing Indonesian and Philippine strains. The fingerprints showed the genetic diversity of biovar N2 strains in Asia. [source] TRACING THE ORIGIN OF MULTI-DRUG RESISTANT (MDR) ESCHERICHIA COLI INFECTIONS FROM URINARY CATHETERS IN ICU CANINE PATIENTSJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue S1 2004J Ogeer-Gyles Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs with urinary catheters in intensive care units (ICUs) are frequent. Historically, multi-drug resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli account for about 10% of the UTIs. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of E. coli infections and of MDR E. coli in dogs with UTIs in our ICU, and to assess whether the MDR E. coli were community-acquired or nosocomial in origin. Methods: Over a 1-year period, rectal swabs were taken from all dogs in the ICU on the day of admission (D0) and on days 3 (D3), 6 (D6), 9 (D9) and 12 (D12). Urine was collected on these days from dogs with an indwelling urinary catheter (n=190). Rectal swabs and urine were routinely cultured. E. coli isolates were identified by biochemical tests. Using NCCLS guidelines, antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by disk diffusion method on fecal and urinary E. coli isolates. Twelve antimicrobial agents were used: nalidixic acid, enrofloxacin, cephalothin, cefoxitin, cefotaxime, ceftiofur, trimethoprim-sulfa, chloramphenicol, gentamicin, tetracycline, ampicillin, and amoxicillin/clavulanate. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to compare MDR E. coli UTI strains with fecal E. coli strains from the same patient and with MDR fecal E. coli from patients that were adjacent to, or housed in the same cages. Results: E. coli was cultured from 12 (48%) of 25 UTIs. Two of the E. coli were MDR. For one dog, PFGE showed no similarities among fecal E. coli and the urinary MDR E. coli isolates from the patient or between these isolates and fecal E. coli from a dog housed in the same kennel on the previous day. The MDR E. coli UTI was likely acquired prior to admission to the ICU, as it was present on D0. For the other dog, PFGE showed genetic similarity but not complete identity between the D3 MDR E. coli urinary isolate and the D3, D6, D9 fecal MDR isolates. This suggests that the UTI originated with the fecal E. coli. Using selective plates, fecal MDR E. coli were not found on D0. Selection of the MDR strain in the intestine by the use of antibiotics occurred while the dog was in the ICU and possibly led to the UTI. Conclusions: Multi-drug resistant E. coli accounted for 2 of 12 E. coli UTIs in dogs in the ICU over a 1-year period. Genotyping showed that one of the two MDR E. coli infections could possibly be of nosocomial origin. [source] Prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in a subset of intensive poultry flocks in IrelandLETTERS IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009A. Patriarchi Abstract Aim:, The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Campylobacter species in a subset of intensive poultry flocks by examining samples collected in geographically disparate areas on the island of Ireland. Methods and Results:, Faecal, water and environmental samples were collected from the interior of poultry houses on nine farms. Three cultural methods were used for Campylobacter isolation: direct plating, enrichment culture and a recovery method for emerging Campylobacter spp. Presumptive Campylobacter isolates were confirmed using biochemical tests and further identified to species level by multiplex PCR. All flocks sampled in this study were found to be contaminated with Campylobacter at the time of sampling. Structural and air samples taken from the interior of broiler houses were also found to be Campylobacter positive. All water samples were found to be Campylobacter negative. The Campycheck method was used for the isolation of emerging Campylobacter spp. Conclusions:,Campylobacter spp. were recovered (as contaminants) from the poultry house interior, air and environmental samples in all intensive poultry flocks surveyed. Significance and Impact of the Study:, This study highlights the need for improved biosecurity on selected poultry farms. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||