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IL
Terms modified by IL Selected AbstractsDownregulation of oxytocin receptors in right ventricle of rats with monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertensionACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 2 2010T. L. Broderick Abstract Aim:, Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in the rat leads to right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy, inflammation and increased natriuretic peptide (NP) levels in plasma and RV. Because the release of nitric oxide (NO) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a function of the oxytocin receptor (OTR), we examined the effect of PH on gene and protein expression of OTR, NP (A, atrial; B, brain) and receptors (NPRs), nitric oxide synthases (NOS), interleukin (IL)-1,, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-, in the hypertrophied RV in a model of PH. Methods:, RV hypertrophy was induced in male Sprague,Dawley rats with monocrotaline (MCT; 60 mg kg,1) and was confirmed by the presence of an increased RV weight and RV-to-[left ventricle (LV) and septum] ratio. Results:, In the RV of MCT-treated rats, a ,40% reduction in OTR mRNA and protein was observed compared with the RV of control rats. This reduction was associated with increased transcripts of ANP and BNP in both ventricles and a corresponding increase in NP receptor mRNA expression for receptors A, B and C. Protein expression of inducible NOS was increased in the RV, whereas endothelial NOS transcripts were increased only in the LV of MCT-treated rats. In the RV of MCT-treated rats, downregulation of OTR was also associated with increased mRNA expression of IL-1, and IL-6. Conclusion:, Our results show that downregulation of the OTR in the RV of MCT-treated rats is associated with increased expression of NP and their receptors as well as IL-1, and IL-6. This reduction in OTR in RV myocardium may have an impact on cardiac function in the MCT-induced model of PH. [source] Role of interleukin-15 in the development of mouse olfactory nerveCONGENITAL ANOMALIES, Issue 4 2009Tsuyoshi Umehara ABSTRACT Interleukin (IL)-15 interacts with components of the IL-2 receptor (R) and exhibits T cell-stimulating activity similar to that of IL-2. In addition, IL-15 is widely expressed in many cell types and tissues, including the central nervous system. We provide evidence of a novel role of IL-15 in olfactory neurogenesis. Both IL-15 and IL-15R, were expressed in neuronal precursor cells of the developing olfactory epithelium in mice. Adult IL-15R, knockout mice had fewer mature olfactory neurons and proliferating cells than wild-type. Our results suggest that IL-15 plays an important role in regulating cell proliferation in olfactory neurogenesis. [source] Isolated levocardia: Prenatal diagnosis and managementCONGENITAL ANOMALIES, Issue 2 2009Satoko Katsuya ABSTRACT Isolated levocardia (IL) is a rare condition of situs anomaly in which there is a normal left-sided heart (levocardia) with dextro position of the abdominal viscera. IL has been reported in children and adults with complex cardiac defects, whereas there are only few published reports regarding the prenatal diagnosis of IL. We report two prenatal cases of IL diagnosed by ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In both cases, fetal cardiac function remained within the normal range throughout pregnancy, and no treatment for the heart was required after birth. For the dextro position of abdominal viscera, one case was followed without any surgical procedure, but the other case required prophylactic operation due to malrotation of the small intestine. Although the prognosis of IL largely depends on the severity of associated cardiac anomaly, future bowel obstruction caused by intestinal malrotation may also be life-threatening. In this respect, prenatal diagnosis of IL is important, even when there is no associated cardiac structural anomaly. If IL is suspected in routine fetal ultrasonography, MRI may be recommended to obtain more detailed information on the anatomy of abdominal viscerae, and careful observation for bowel problems is required, especially after oral nutrition is started. [source] Combined effect of IL-17 and blockade of nitric oxide biosynthesis on haematopoiesis in miceACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010A. Krsti Abstract Aim:, The study was undertaken to extend our investigation concerning both the in vivo activity of interleukin (IL)-17 and the specific role of nitric oxide (NO) in IL-17-induced effects in the process of haematopoiesis. Methods:, CBA mice were simultaneously treated with IL-17 and/or nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, l -NAME, for 5 days and changes within various haematopoietic cell lineages in bone marrow, spleen and peripheral blood were analysed. Results:, Findings showed that administration of both IL-17 and l -NAME stimulated increase in net haematopoiesis in normal mice. IL-17-enhanced myelopoiesis was characterized by stimulation of both femoral and splenic haematopoietic progenitor cells and morphologically recognizable granulocytes. Additionally, IL-17 induced alterations in the frequency of erythroid progenitor cells in both bone marrow and spleen, accompanied with their mobilization to the peripheral blood. As a consequence of these changes in the erythroid cell compartments, significant reticulocytosis was observed, which evidenced that in IL-17-treated mice effective erythropoiesis occurred. Exposure of mice to NOS inhibitor also increased the number of both granulocyte-macrophage and erythroid progenitors in bone marrow and spleens, and these alterations were followed by the mobilization of erythroid progenitors and elevated content of reticulocytes in peripheral blood. The specific role of NO in IL-17-induced haematopoiesis was demonstrated only in the IL-17-reducing effect on bone marrow late stage erythroid progenitors, CFU-E. Conclusion:, The results demonstrated the involvement of both IL-17 and NO in the regulation of haematopoietic cell activity in various haematopoietic compartments. They further suggest that IL-17 effects are differentially mediated depending on the haematopoietic microenvironments. [source] Polymorphisms in the interleukin-1 gene influence the stratum corneum interleukin-1, concentration in uninvolved skin of patients with chronic irritant contact dermatitisCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 5 2008Cindy M. DeJongh Background:, Interleukin (IL)-1, and its receptor antagonist IL-1ra play a role in skin inflammation. Several polymorphisms in the IL1 gene cluster, coding for IL-1,, IL-1ra, and IL-1,, influence their protein expression. Within this cluster, strong linkage disequilibrium has been shown. Objective:, We studied the association between the polymorphisms IL1A -889 (C,T) and IL1B -31 (T,C) and the concentration of IL-1, and IL-1ra in the stratum corneum (SC). Method:, In 124 patients with chronic irritant contact dermatitis, we genotyped the IL1A -889 and IL1B -31 polymorphisms and determined the amount of IL-1, and IL-1ra on tape strips obtained from uninvolved skin of the volar forearm. Results:, The SC IL-1, concentration was 23% and 47% lower in subjects with IL1A -889 C/T genotype and T/T genotype, respectively, compared with wild-type genotype. In subjects with IL1B -31 C/C genotype, the IL-1, concentration was 51% lower compared with C/T and T/T genotypes. The ratio IL-1ra/IL-1, increased twofold in IL1A -889 C/T genotype and threefold in T/T genotype compared with wild type. Conclusions:, We have shown a clear effect of IL1 genotype on protein expression in the SC. This altered expression may be responsible for the interindividual differences in the inflammatory response of the skin. [source] CD203c-based basophil activation test in allergy diagnosis: Characteristics and differences to CD63 upregulation,CYTOMETRY, Issue 5 2010Eva M. Sturm Abstract Background: The basophil activation test (BAT) based on CD203c upregulation has been validated as a reliable tool for the diagnosis of IgE-mediated allergies. Nevertheless, CD203c-based BAT is hardly comparable with that of CD63-based tests, as the mechanisms of CD203c versus CD63 induction differ considerably. The aim of the present study was to identify potent influencing factors of the CD203c-based BAT and to emphasize differences between CD63 and CD203c detection. Methods: CD203c-based BAT was determined in 82 healthy controls and in 79 allergic patients. The effects of interleukin (IL)-3 and degranulation enhancing substances were investigated and compared with CD63 upregulation. Furthermore, the influence of different storage conditions and incubation times was evaluated and the impact of antiallergic drugs on the test results was assessed. Results: CD203c and CD63 expression was rapidly upregulated reaching a maximum after 20,30 min. Basophil CD203c upregulation assayed after storage times up to 48 h declined already after 4 h. IL-3 treatment increased CD203c and CD63 baseline levels and decreased basophil CD203c responses in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, cytochalasin B and latrunculin B did not affect CD203c responses but decreased CD63-based BAT. Finally, therapeutic concentrations of dimetindene and desloratadine did not affect CD203c upregulation. Conclusion: CD203c-based basophil activation test should be performed preferentially within 4 h after taking the blood samples. Priming and degranulation-enhancing factors are not required for CD203c-based BAT. In contrast to skin testing, CD203c-based BAT can be performed in patients undergoing antiallergic treatment. © 2010 International Clinical Cytometry Society [source] Monocytes and T lymphocytes contribute to a predominance of interleukin 6 and interleukin 10 in systemic lupus erythematosus,CYTOMETRY, Issue 4 2009Susana Mellor-Pita Abstract Objective To investigate the contribution of T lymphocytes and monocytes to cytokine production in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods Forty-five SLE patients and 19 healthy volunteers were included. Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF,), interferon gamma (IFN,), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL10 were quantified by ELISA. The cytokine production capacities of peripheral blood mononuclear cells were assessed by culturing in vitro with PMA+Ionomycin or LPS. The intracellular cytokine expression was measured by flow cytometry in T lymphocytes and monocytes, respectively. The influence of the disease activity (measured as the SLE-disease activity index; SLEDAI) and the treatment the patients were receiving was evaluated. Results Serum IL10, IL6, and TNF, levels were increased in patients (P , 0.01), and a higher spontaneous (without stimuli) intracellular expression of IL10 in CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.05) and of IL6 in monocytes (P = 0.01) were found. After stimulation, patients presented a higher percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes producing IL4 and IL10 (P , 0.01), and of monocytes producing IL6 (P = 0.04) and IL10 (P = 0.008). The SLEDAI score was positively correlated with the percentage of CD4+IL10+ and CD8+IL10+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.01), and inversely correlated with CD8+TNF,+ (P= 0.02), CD4+IFN,+ (P = 0.04) and CD8+ IFN,+ (P = 0.002) T lymphocytes. Patients receiving high dose prednisone produced higher IL10, but they also were the patients with a more active disease. Conclusion Monocytes and T lymphocytes (CD4+ and CD8+) contribute to an overproduction of IL6 and IL10 in SLE; this correlates with the disease activity but is independent of the treatment the patients are receiving. © 2009 Clinical Cytometry Society [source] Monitoring of monocyte functional state after extracorporeal circulation: A flow cytometry studyCYTOMETRY, Issue 1 2004Silverio Sbrana Abstract Background Cardiovascular surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) induces systemic inflammation and postoperative complications depending on pro- and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Activated polymorphonuclear cells and monocytes may be responsible for morbidity associated with CPB. Knowledge of the monocyte functional state in particular may help to develop protective interventions. Methods Samples were drawn from venous peripheral blood (basal condition, at 4 and 24 h after CPB) and coronary blood (before and after cardioplegic arrest) of 14 patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The following phenotypic and functional parameters of the monocyte population were studied by flow cytometry: surface molecules expression (CD18, CD11a, CD11b, CD14, CD15, CD45, HLA-DR, and Toll-like receptor [TLR]-4), myeloperoxidase (MPO) content, and intracellular cytokine production (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-,, interleukin [IL]-1,, IL-6, and IL-8). Results Cardiac surgery with CPB induced down-modulation of surface molecules expression on peripheral monocytes, especially at 24 h after CPB, for CD18, CD11a, and CD11b (P < 0.003) and for the CD15 adhesive cluster (P = 0.0028) and HLA-DR (P < 0.001). At 4 h after CPB, downregulation was observed for CD14 (P = 0.004), CD45 (P = 0.014), and CD15 (P = 0.0056). A loss of MPO was detected in venous peripheral (at 24 h after CPB, P = 0.01) or coronary (at reperfusion, P < 0.02) blood. The CD15 cluster complex exhibited a down-modulation in coronary blood (at reperfusion, P = 0.0003). Spontaneous intracellular production of IL-1,, IL-6, and IL-8 decreased at 24 h after CPB (P < 0.05). Conclusions The down-modulation of integrins and adhesive receptor expression and the loss of MPO suggest a strong activation and shedding reaction of circulating monocyte after CPB, further exacerbated by contact with coronary ischemic vessels. The changes of differentiation antigens may reflect the appearance of a partially immature population immediately after CPB. The reduced proinflammatory cytokine production, observed at 24 h after CPB, suggests a functional polarization of circulating monocytes. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Treatment of erythrodermic psoriasis in HCV+ patient with adalimumabDERMATOLOGIC THERAPY, Issue 2009Antonio Giovanni Richetta ABSTRACT Erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe and disabling variant of psoriasis. The authors present the case of a 48-year-old man with psoriasis and hemophilia presented with a history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection treated with pegylated interferon alpha-2a and ribavirin therapy. At the end of antiviral therapy, skin manifestation progressively worsened, becoming erythrodermic, with lack of efficacy of steroid therapy. The authors decided to start biological therapy with induction dose of adalimumab (Humira, Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Chicago, IL) 80 mg at Week 0 and 40 mg weekly. In our case, this resulted in a highly effective and safe treatment. [source] Insulitis in type 2 diabetesDIABETES OBESITY & METABOLISM, Issue 2008M. Böni-Schnetzler Islets of patients with type 2 diabetes have the feature of an inflammatory process reflected by the presence of cytokines, immune cells, ,-cell apoptosis, amyloid deposits and fibrosis. Indeed, ,-cells from patients with type 2 diabetes display inflammatory markers, including increased interleukin (IL)-1, expression. Furthermore, increased islet-associated macrophages are observed in human type 2 diabetic patients and in most animal models of diabetes. Importantly, increased numbers of macrophages are detectable very early in high fat,fed mice islets, before the onset of diabetes. These immune cells are most likely attracted by islet-derived chemokines, produced in response to metabolic stress, and under the control of IL-1,. It follows that modulation of intra-islet inflammatory mediators, in particular IL-1,, may prevent insulitis in type 2 diabetes and therefore presents itself as a possible causal therapy with disease-modifying potential. [source] Plasma IL-6 concentration is inversely related to insulin sensitivity, and acute-phase proteins associate with glucose and lipid metabolism in healthy subjectsDIABETES OBESITY & METABOLISM, Issue 6 2005M. K. Heliövaara Aim:, It has been shown that atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. Recent data suggest that inflammation precedes type 2 diabetes. Hence, we wanted to study the interrelationship between IL-6, insulin sensitivity, lipids and numerous acute-phase proteins. Methods:, Twenty-one healthy individuals [16 males/5 females, age 27.9 ± 1.8 years, body mass index (BMI) 24.1 ± 0.8 kg/m2] participated in the study. Each patient went through a 4-h hyperinsulinaemic (40 mU/m2/min) euglycaemic clamp and 4-h saline infusion. Blood samples were taken before and at the end of the infusions. Results:, Plasma interleukin (IL)-6 concentration correlated inversely with insulin sensitivity (M -value) (r = ,0.49, p < 0.05). Moreover, the plasma levels of IL-6 associated with c-peptide (r = 0.49, p < 0.05), fat% (r = 0.43, p < 0.05) and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.46, p < 0.05). ,-1-acid glycoprotein was related to HbA1c (r = 0.47, p < 0.05), insulin (r = 0.55, p < 0.01), diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.58, p < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (r = 0.58, p < 0.01) and triglycerides (r = 0.58, p < 0.01). Haptoglobin was correlated with insulin (r = 0.46, p < 0.05), total cholesterol (r = 0.61, p < 0.01), BMI (r = 0.58, p < 0.01), fat% (r = 0.63, p < 0.01) and lipid oxidation during clamp (r = 0.43, p < 0.05). Diastolic blood pressure decreased during the clamp (from 78.3 ± 1.9 to 72.1 ± 2.0 mmHg, p = 0.001). Insulin infusion did not affect the serum levels of most acute-phase proteins. Conclusions:, Our study suggests that low grade inflammation, as reflected by IL-6, A1GP and haptoglobin contributes to the regulation of insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism and blood pressure in normal human physiology. [source] Solid renal masses in adults: Image-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology and imaging techniques,"Two Heads Better Than One?"DIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 1 2008José García-Solano M.D. Abstract We have compared the diagnostic accuracy of image-guided 25G-FNA (fine-needle aspiration) and imaging modalities in a group of 31 patients with solid space-occupying renal lesions. All patients had undergone total nephrectomy and histologic sections were available for review. By FNA there were 24 malignant diagnoses, I benign diagnosis, and 6 cases with yield inadequate for diagnosis. The FNA accuracy for malignancy was 100% with no false positive cases; cancer typing by FNA matched the final histologic diagnoses in 91.6% of cases. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 80%, 14%, 80%, and 14%, respectively. Radiologically there were 26 diagnoses of malignancy, I of benignity, and 4 indeterminate lesions (IL). Accuracy for malignancy was 100%, with one false positive case; cancer typing matched the final histologic diagnoses in 84%. Sensitivity of imaging modalities was 86%, specificity 17%, positive predictive value 83%, and negative predictive value 20%. Four IL corresponded to renal cell carcinoma in the final histologic report: two IL had a previous diagnosis of malignancy by FNA, and the yield of two was inadequate for cytologic diagnosis. Both techniques have 100% accuracy for the diagnosis of malignancy. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of imaging techniques are slightly higher than those obtained by FNA. Imaging techniques and FNA of solid renal masses complement each other in IL and in nondiagnostic FNAs. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:8,12. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] The Effect of Noise in the Emergency DepartmentACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 7 2005Leslie S. Zun MD Abstract Background: It is hypothesized that high ambient noise in the emergency department (ED) adversely affects the ability of the examiner to hear heart and lung sounds. Objective: To determine the ability of various examiners to hear heart tones and lung sounds at the high end of loudness typically found in the ED setting. Methods: The study was divided into two parts. First, sound levels in the ED were measured over various times during the months of January through June 2001, using a sound level monitor. The second part of the study was the determination of the ability to hear heart and lung sounds on a young healthy volunteer using the same Littmann lightweight stethoscope at a predetermined ambient noise level of 90 dB. The results were entered into a database and analyzed using SPSS version 10 (Chicago, IL). Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, frequencies, and correlation were calculated using this program. Results: Two hundred five sound measurements were taken in the ED during the study period in three locations at various hours. The mean noise level at the nursing station was 57.60 dB, with a minimum of 45.00 dB and a maximum of 70.00 dB. Four of the 104 test subjects (3.8%) were unable to hear the heart tones, and nine of the 104 (8.7%) were unable to hear the lung sounds. Fifty percent (27 of 54) of the test subjects reported diminished lung sounds and eight of 15 (53.3%) reported diminished heart sounds. No significant difference was found between hearing heart sounds and years of experience, age, professional position, and quality of the sound. Significant differences were found between hearing lung sounds and years of experience and professional position, but not with age, gender, and sound quality. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that most of the tested examiners have the ability to hear heart and lung sounds at the extreme of loudness found in one ED. [source] Development of a Glucose Biosensor Using Advanced Electrode Modified by Nanohybrid Composing Chemically Modified Graphene and Ionic LiquidELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 11 2010Ho Yang Abstract Nanohybrids of chemically modified graphene (CMG) and ionic liquid (IL) were prepared by sonication to modify the electrode. The modified CMG-IL electrodes showed a higher current and smaller peak-to-peak potential separation than a bare electrode due to the promoted electron transfer rate. Furthermore, the glucose oxidase (GOx) immobilized on the modified electrode displayed direct electron transfer rate and symmetrical redox potentials with a linear relationship at different scan rates. The fabricated GOx/CMG-IL electrodes were developed selective glucose biosensor with respect to a sensitivity of 0.64,,A mM,1, detection limit of 0.376,mM, and response time of <5,s. [source] Separation and Detection of Narcotic Drugs on a Microchip Using Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography and ElectrochemiluminescenceELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 6 2008Yan Du Abstract A new approach for fast and sensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection of narcotic drugs on a microchip after separation by micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) is presented, taking the cocaine and its hydrolysate ecgonine as the test analytes. The mixture of hydrophilic BMIMBF4 ionic liquid (IL) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was used directly as the buffer of MEKC with less noisy baselines, lower electrophoretic current and satisfactory separation performance. This developed microchip MEKC,ECL system was successfully applied to the determination of two very similar narcotics, heroin and codeine, within 100s in urine sample and was demonstrated as a promising method in clinical and forensic analysis. [source] Determination of trace cationic impurities in butylmethylimidazolium-based ionic liquids: From transient to comprehensive single-capillary counterflow isotachophoresis-zone electrophoresisELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 23 2006Marek Urbánek Abstract Determination of impurities in ionic liquids (ILs) remains a difficult task. In this work, the hyphenation of isotachophoretic,(ITP) preconcentration to zone electrophoresis,(ZE) has been explored for the trace analysis of the cationic impurities Na+, Li+, and methylimidazolium (MI+) in butylmethylimidazolium (BMI+)-based ILs. Simultaneous detection of UV-transparent and UV-absorbing impurities was ensured by a BGE composed of creatinine-acetate buffer. To induce ITP, three different strategies were evaluated: (i),Sample self-stacking ensured by the addition of ammonium acetate (NH4Ac) to 25,50-fold diluted IL solution (transient ITP). (ii),Complete ITP-ZE separation performed in a single capillary: ITP was realized in discontinuous electrolytes comprising an 80,mM NH4Ac, 40,mM acetic acid, 30,mM ,-CD, pH,5.05, leading electrolyte,(LE) and a 10,mM creatinine, 10,mM acetic acid, pH,4.9, terminating electrolyte,(TE). To create the ZE stage, the ITP stack of analytes was moved back toward the capillary inlet by pressure and simultaneously the capillary was filled with the BGE. This protocol made it possible to accommodate a 2.5-times diluted IL sample. (iii),Complete counterflow ITP-ZE with continuous electrokinetic sample supply: the ITP stage was performed in a capillary filled with a 150,mM NH4Ac, 75,mM acetic acid, 30,mM ,-CD, pH,5.0 LE, with 40-times diluted IL at the capillary inlet. BMI+ from IL acts as the terminating ion. The LODs reached in this latter case were at the 10 and 1,ppb levels for MI+ and Li+ in diluted IL matrix, respectively. [source] Chemical amplification in an invaded food web: Seasonality and ontogeny in a high-biomass, low-diversity ecosystem,ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 10 2008Carla A. Ng Abstract The global spread of invasive species is changing the structure of aquatic food webs worldwide. The North American Great Lakes have proved particularly vulnerable to this threat. In nearshore areas, invasive benthic species such as dreissenid mussels and round gobies (Neogobius melanostomus) have gained dominance in recent years. Such species are driving the flow of energy and material from the water column to the benthic zone, with dramatic effect on nutrient and contaminant cycling. Here, we develop a stage-structured model of a benthified food web in Lake Michigan with seasonal resolution and show how its bioaccumulation patterns differ from expected ones. Our model suggests that contaminant recycling through the consumption of lipid-rich fish eggs and mussel detritus is responsible for these differences. In southern Lake Michigan's Calumet Harbor (Chicago, IL, USA), round gobies have nitrogen isotope signatures with considerable spread, with some values higher than their predators and others lower than their prey. Contrary to patterns observed in linear pelagic systems, we predict that polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations in these fish decrease with increasing size due to the lipid- and benthos-enriched diets of smaller fish. We also present here round goby PCB concentrations measured in 2005 after an invasional succession in Calumet Harbor and demonstrate how the change from one invasive mussel species to another may have led to a decrease in round goby PCB accumulation. Our results suggest that benthic-dominated systems differ from pelagic ones chiefly due to the influence of detritus and that these effects are exacerbated in systems with low species diversity and high biomass. [source] Disability payments, drug use and representative payees: an analysis of the relationshipsADDICTION, Issue 7 2003James A. Swartz ABSTRACT Aims This study attempted to determine: if US federal cash disability payments increase the use of cocaine or opiates among those requalifying for supplemental security income (SSI) disability benefits compared with those who lost benefits; if drug use peaks at the beginning of the month after the receipt of the disability cash disbursement; and if money management by representative payees of requalifying SSI recipients suppresses drug use. Design A multi-site, prospective, 2 year longitudinal design was used with follow-up interviews conducted every 6 months. Urine samples were collected at the final three follow-up interviews. Setting Data were collected in Chicago, IL, Los Angeles, CA, and Seattle, WA, USA. Participants This study used a randomly selected sample of 740 former recipients of SSI who had received disability benefits for drug addiction and alcoholism (DA&A) in 1996, were between the ages of 21 and 59 years, had not received concurrent social security disability insurance and provided testable urine samples and complete self-report data for at least one follow-up interview. Measurements Independent variables included demographics, SSI status at follow-up, representative payee status, drug treatment participation and income. Time of drug testing was operationalized as the first 10 days of the month versus the last 20,21 days based on when the urine sample was collected. The dependent variables were cocaine and opiate use, determined by urinalysis results. Findings Participants were 28% more likely to test positive for cocaine use in the first 10 days of the month than later in the month. This effect was general across all subjects and was not restricted to those receiving SSI benefits. No such effect was found for opiate use. Receiving SSI benefits did not increase cocaine or opiate use generally, nor did having a representative payee suppress use. Conclusions The findings do not support the contentions that federal cash benefits appreciably increase drug use or that representative payees discourage use, at least when use is defined dichotomously. The ,check effect' for cocaine use appears to be general and not confined to those receiving federal cash benefits. The lack of a ,check effect' for opiate use is probably the result of the difference between a relatively steady state of opiate use associated with addiction and a binge pattern of cocaine use triggered by suddenly flush resources. [source] Cytomegalovirus hyperimmunoglobulin: mechanisms in allo-immune response in vitroEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 12 2007K. Hoetzenecker Abstract Background Cytomegalovirus hyperimmunoglobulin (CMVIg) containing drugs are routinely administered in cardiac transplantation for prophylaxis against CMV disease. Yet little is known about their influence on transplant relevant immune functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of CMVIg on cellular immunity in in vitro experiments and to define their role in tolerance inducing mechanisms. Materials and methods/results CMVIg reduces proliferation in mixed lymphocyte reactions and anti-CD3 blastogenesis assays and is related to decreased production of immune modulating cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, interferonr (IFN,), IL-10. This antiproliferative effect is associated with a cell-cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase and induction of apoptosis in CD8+ and natural killer cells. Co-incubation with CMVIg causes down-regulation of cell bound immunoglobulin and Fc,RIII surface expression on natural killer cells and leads to attenuation of antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity effector functions. Conclusions We conclude that CMVIg induces immunological features on leukocytes in vitro that are known to be related to tolerance induction. Our observations extend the current concept of CMVIg as passive CMV prophylaxis to a therapeutic drug compound capable of reducing allogeneic immune response. [source] Procoagulant and inflammatory response of virus-infected monocytesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 10 2002J. J. M. Bouwman Abstract Background Monocytes play a prominent role in inflammation, coagulation and atherosclerosis by their ability to produce tissue factor (TF) and cytokines. The aim of the present study was to establish whether virus-infected monocytes initiate coagulation. In addition, the production of cytokines by monocytes may accelerate the chronic process of atherosclerosis and may contribute to coronary syndromes by eliciting plaque instability. Materials and methods Monocytes were isolated by Vacutainer®, BD Biosciences, Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands and subsequent magnetic cell sorting (MACS®, Milteny Biotec, Bergish Gladbach, Germany). Coagulation times in normal pooled plasma and Factor VII-deficient plasma were measured after infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV), Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) and influenza A\H1N1. Anti-TF antibodies were added to neutralize TF expressed on monocytes. Interleukins (IL) 6, 8 and 10 were measured in the supernatants. Results Chlamydia pneumoniae- and CMV-infected monocytes decreased the clotting time by 60%, and influenza-infected monocytes by 19%, as compared to uninfected monocytes. Procoagulant activity was absent when Factor VII-deficient plasma or anti-TF antibodies were used. Monocytes produced both IL-6 and IL-8 after infection with CMV (317 pg mL,1 and 250 pg mL,1) or Cp (733 pg mL,1 and 268 pg mL,1). Similar results were obtained for influenza virus-infected monocytes, but the levels of both cytokines were 3,5-fold higher (1797 pg mL,1 and 725 pg mL,1). Interleukin-10 was not produced by infected monocytes. Conclusion The procoagulant activity of virus-infected monocytes is TF-dependent. Although influenza infection did not generate a significant reduction in clotting time, the pronounced expression of IL-6 and IL-8 may induce local and/or systemic inflammatory reactions, which may be associated with plaque rupture and atherosclerosis. The lack of production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 may even accelerate these processes. [source] Long-term effects of idiotype vaccination on the specific T-cell response in peripheral blood and bone marrow of multiple myeloma patientsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2007Amir Osman Abdalla Abstract Objectives:, To elucidate long-term effects of idiotype (Id) vaccination on Id-specific T cells of multiple myeloma (MM) patients and compare Id-specific T-cell responses of peripheral blood with those of bone marrow (BM). Materials and methods:, Id-specific T-cell responses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were compared with those of BM mononuclear cells (BMMC) in 10 MM patients vaccinated with the Id protein at a median time of 41 months since the last immunization. The PBMC responses at late follow-up were also compared with those during active immunization. The responses were assessed by a proliferation assay, enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) (,-interferon), cytometric bead array (CBA) for secreted cytokines and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) for cytokine gene expression. Results:, At the late testing time, an Id-specific response was detected in PBMC of five patients (ELISPOT, CBA, QRT-PCR) and in BMMC of four patients (CBA, QRT-PCR). A response in both compartments was noted only in three patients. The cytokines gene profile was consistent with a predominance of Th2 cells [interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-10]. Comparison of the Id-specific responses of PBMC during active immunization with those at the late follow-up showed that the frequency and magnitude of the responses had decreased significantly by time (proliferation/ELISPOT) (P < 0.02) and shifted at the gene level from a Th1 to a Th2 profile (P < 0.05). Conclusion:, Id-specific T cells may decline overtime and shift toward a Th2 response and may be found at a similar frequency of patients in blood and BM. [source] Peripheral T-cell lymphoma associated consecutively with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and hypereosinophilic syndromeEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2003Antonio Gutiérrez Abstract:, Both hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and hypereosinophilic syndrome have been associated with hematologic neoplasms and are respectively related to an overproduction of the cytokines Thelper 1 (Th1) and Th2 by tumor cells or reactive cells. To our knowledge, this is the first time a case of a peripheral T-cell lymphoma consecutively associated with both paraneoplastic conditions has been reported. Importantly, in this case when the lymphoma exclusively involved the bone marrow, severe paraneoplastic systemic damage, a CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic phenotype and a hypereosinophilia not related to high levels of interleukin (IL)-5 was found. Interestingly, progression of the lymphoma coincided with an increase in the serum levels of several Th2 cytokines and IL-2, a decrease in tumor necrosis factor and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels and the onset of a hypereosinophilic syndrome. [source] Effects of angiogenic regulators on in vitro proliferation and cytokine secretion by native human acute myelogenous leukemia blastsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2003Øystein Bruserud Abstract: Angiogenesis seems to be important in the pathogenesis of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The endothelial cell proliferation and microvessel formation are regulated by a wide range of soluble mediators, including angiogenin, angiopoietin-2, basic fibroblast growth factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF-D, angiostatin and endostatin. In the present study, it has been investigated whether these mediators have an additional direct effect on the proliferation and cytokine release by native human AML blasts. AML cells derived from a large group of consecutive patients were investigated. All these mediators could alter the proliferation and cytokine release [interleukin (IL) 1,, IL6, IL8, tumor necrosis factor ,] for a minority of patients. Alteration of spontaneous proliferation by at least one mediator was detected in five of 38 patients; whereas, altered cytokine (Flt3-ligand, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, stem cell factor)-dependant proliferation was observed for 10 patients. Growth enhancement was most frequently observed, whereas growth inhibition was uncommon. The effects on AML blast proliferation were often dependant on or were modulated by the presence of the three hematopoietic growth factors. Based on the present results, it is concluded that angioregulatory mediators have additional growth-enhancing effects directly on the AML blasts for certain patients. However, based on the results from this investigation and previous studies it is suggested that their major contribution to the pathogenesis of AML is through their effects on regulation of bone marrow angiogenesis, and future studies of these mediators in AML should probably focus on these effects. [source] Luminescent Gold(I) and Copper(I) Phosphane Complexes Containing the 4-Nitrophenylthiolate Ligand: Observation of ,,,* Charge-Transfer EmissionEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 15 2008Cheng-Hui Li Abstract Gold(I) and copper(I) phosphane complexes containing the 4-nitrophenylthiolate ligand, namely [(PCy3)Au(SC6H4NO2 -4)] (1) (PCy3 = tricyclohexylphosphane), [Au2(,-dcpm)(SC6H4NO2 -4)2] (2) [dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methane], [Au2(,-dppm)(SC6H4NO2 -4)2] (3) [dppm = bis(diphenylphosphanyl)methane], and [(,2 -SC6H4NO2 -4)2(,3 -SC6H4NO2 -4)2(CuPPh3)4] (4), were prepared and characterized by X-ray crystal analysis. All of these complexes show an intense absorption band with ,max at 396,409 nm attributed to the intraligand (IL) ,(S),,*(C6H4NO2 -4) charge-transfer transition. The assignment is supported by the results of DFT and TDDFT calculations on the model complexes [PH3Au(SC6H4NO2 -4)] and [(,2 -SC6H4NO2 -4)2(,3 -SC6H4NO2 -4)2(CuPH3)4]. The emissions of solid samples and glassy solutions (methanol/ethanol, 1:4, v/v) of 1,4 at 77 K are assigned to the [,(S),,*(C6H4NO2 -4)] charge-transfer excited state. Metallophilic interactions are not observed in both solid state and solutions of complexes 1,3. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008) [source] Elevated cerebrospinal fluid adiponectin and adipsin levels in patients with multiple sclerosis: a Finnish co-twin studyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 2 2010A. Hietaharju Background and purpose:, The aim of this study was to investigate the levels of three adipocytokines: leptin, adiponectin and adipsin, in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of twins discordant for multiple sclerosis (MS). Adipose tissue is an important component connecting immune system and several tissues and organs including CNS. Fat cells produce adipocytokines, which seem to have a role in various autoimmune disorders including MS. Methods:, Plasma samples were collected from twelve twins and CSF samples from four twins discordant for MS. The concentrations of interleukine (IL)-6, adiponectin, adipsin and leptin in plasma and CSF samples were determined by enzyme immuno assay. Results:, A significant difference was seen in the adipocytokine levels in CSF samples. Twins with MS had higher concentrations of adiponectin (P = 0.039) and adipsin (P = 0.039), than their asymptomatic co-twins. Conclusion:, As adiponectin and adipsin levels in CSF did not correlate with their levels in plasma, it seems that there could be a secondary intrathecal synthesis of these adipocytokines in MS. [source] The effects of natalizumab on inflammatory mediators in multiple sclerosis: prospects for treatment-sensitive biomarkersEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2009M. Khademi Background:, Natalizumab affects systemic cytokine expressions and clinical course in relapsing,remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). We analyzed levels of inflammatory cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and osteopontin (OPN) in CSF, and clinical outcome measures in 22 natalizumab-treated RRMS patients. Methods:, mRNA levels of cytokines in cells were detected with real-time RT-PCR. Protein levels of OPN and MMP-9 were measured by ELISA. Results:, Natalizumab reduced CSF cell counts (P < 0.0001). Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon-, (IFN-,) mRNAs were significantly increased in PBMCs. In contrast, expressions of IFN-, and interleukin (IL)-23 were decreased but IL-10 increased in the CSF cells. OPN and MMP-9 were reduced in the CSF. Patients being in remission at baseline showed the same deviations of mediators as those in relapse after natalizumab treatment. The open label clinical outcome measures were either stable or improved during therapy. Conclusions:, Natalizumab attenuates pro-inflammatory mediators intrathecally and the reduced pro-inflammatory milieu may allow increased production of the anti-inflammatory mediator IL-10. The increased systemic cytokines may impede the improvement of certain clinical measures like fatigue. The affected mediators seem to be sensitive to an immune-modifying treatment which could be used as biomarkers for this therapy. [source] Pyrogenic cytokines injected into the rat cerebral ventricle induce cyclooxygenase-2 in brain endothelial cells and also upregulate their receptorsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 9 2001Chunyu Cao Abstract Peripheral immunological insults induce interleukin (IL)-1, and IL-6 in the brain. To elucidate the mechanism(s) of fever evoked by these brain-derived cytokines, and possible interactions between them, we examined in rats: (i) whether cyclooxygenase-2 is responsible for fever evoked by central injection of these cytokines; (ii) if so, where in the brain cyclooxygenase-2 is induced; (iii) where the receptors for these cytokines are located; and (iv) how the expression of these receptors is influenced by the cytokines. Intracerebroventricular injection of these cytokines evoked fever that was suppressed by a cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor. Brain endothelium was the site of cyclooxygenase-2 induction by these cytokines. IL-1 receptor (IL-1R) was constitutively expressed in brain endothelium, and its mRNA was further upregulated by either cytokine. IL-6R mRNA was constitutively expressed in the cerebral cortex, and was newly induced in as yet unidentified cells in brain blood vessels by either cytokine. Messenger RNAs for cyclooxygenase-2, IL-1R, and IL-6R were often observed in the same blood vessels. These results suggest that COX-2 induced in brain endothelium is, at least in part, involved in the fever evoked by these cytokines, and that one possible interaction between these two cytokines is mutual upregulation of their receptors in the endothelium or perivascular cells, resulting in augmentation of their actions. [source] Emergency Medicine Resident Patient Care Documentation Using a Hand-held Computerized DeviceACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 12 2001Steven B. Bird MD Abstract Objective: To determine whether emergency medicine (EM) resident documentation of procedures, patient encounters, and patient follow-ups improved after implementation of a personal digital assistant (PDA) hand-held recording system. Methods: All first-year EM residents were provided a PalmV (Palm, Inc., Santa Clara, CA) PDA. A customized patient procedure and encounter program was constructed using Pendragon Forms (Pendragon Software Corporation, Libertyville, IL) and loaded into each PDA. Residents were instructed to enter information on patients who had any of 21 procedures performed or were considered to be clinically unstable. These data were downloaded to the residency coordinator's desktop computer. The mean number of procedures, encounters, and follow-ups performed per resident were then compared with those of a group of 36 historical controls from the three previous first-year resident classes who recorded the same information using a handwritten card system. Data from the historical controls were combined and the means of each group were compared by Student's t-test. Results: Mean documentation of three procedures was significantly increased in the PDA group versus the index card system: conscious sedation 5.8 vs. 0.03 (p < 0.000005), thoracentesis 2.2 vs. 0.0 (p = 0.002), ultrasound 6.3 vs. 0.0 (p = 0.002). The mean numbers of pericardiocenteses and unstable pediatric surgical patient evaluations were significantly decreased in the hand-held group [from 1.2 to 0.4 (p = 0.03) and from 9.1 to 2.2 (p = 0.02), respectively]. Patient follow-up documentations were not statistically different between the two groups. Conclusions: Use of a hand-held PDA was associated with an increase in first-year EM resident documentation in three of 20 procedures and a decrease in one procedure and the number of unstable surgical pediatric patient resuscitations. The overall time savings in constructing a resident procedure database, as well as the other uses of the PDAs, may make transition to a hand-held computer-based procedure log an attractive option for EM residencies. [source] MyD88 expression in the rat dental follicle: implications for osteoclastogenesis and tooth eruptionEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 4 2010Dawen Liu Liu D, Yao S, Wise GE. MyD88 expression in the rat dental follicle: implications for osteoclastogenesis and tooth eruption. Eur J Oral Sci 2010; 118: 333,341. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 Eur J Oral Sci Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) is a key adaptor molecule in the interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18 toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Because MyD88 is present in dental follicle (DF) cells in vitro, the purpose of this study was to determine its chronological expression in vivo, as well as its possible role in osteoclastogenesis and tooth eruption. An oligo DNA microarray was used to determine expression of the Myd88 gene in vivo in the DFs from the first mandibular molars of postnatal rats from days 1 to 11. The results showed that MyD88 was expressed maximally on day 3. Using small interfering RNA (siRNA) to knock down MyD88 expression in the DF cells also reduced the expression of the nuclear factor-kappa B-1 (NFKB1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) genes. Interleukin-1, up-regulated the expression of NFKB1, MCP-1, and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), but knockdown of MyD88 nullified this IL-1, effect. Conditioned medium from DF cells with MyD88 knocked down had reduced chemotactic activity for mononuclear cells and reduced osteoclastogenesis, as opposed to controls. In conclusion, the maximal expression of MyD88 in the DF of postnatal day 3 rats may contribute to the major burst of osteoclastogenesis needed for eruption by up-regulating MCP-1 and RANKL expression. [source] Reduced growth hormone receptor immunoreactivity in osteoclasts adjacent to the erupting molar in the incisor-absent (osteopetrotic) ratEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 6 2003Anne L. Symons First molars fail to erupt in the incisor-absent (ia/ia) rat because of a defect in osteoclast function. Growth factors that regulate local bone metabolism include growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and interleukin-1 alpha (IL- 1,). Since osteoclast function may be affected by these factors, the aim of this study was to determine the distribution of GH receptor (GHr), IGF-I, EGF and IL-1,, in osteoclasts located occlusal to the erupting first molar, in the ,eruption pathway', in normal and ia/ia rats. Sagittal sections of the first molar and adjacent bone from 3- and 9-d-old animals were examined. Osteoclasts were identified using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). The TRAP-positive osteoclast cell numbers were higher in ia/ia animals at 3 and 9 days-of-age. In the ia/ia group, fewer osteoclasts were GHr- and IGF-I-positive at 3 d of age, and at 9 d of age fewer osteoclasts were GHr-positive. In the ia/ia rat, defective osteoclast function failed to resorb bone to provide an eruption pathway for the lower first molar. The expression of GHr, and to some degree IGF-I, by these osteoclasts was reduced, which may be related to their ability to differentiate and function. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||