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Selected AbstractsA new type of susceptibility-artefact-based magnetic resonance angiography: intra-arterial injection of superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (SPIO) A Resovist® in combination with TrueFisp imaging: a feasibility studyCONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING, Issue 5 2006Robbert M. Maes Abstract The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of super paramagnetic particles of iron oxide (SPIO) as a dark blood contrast agent, in combination with a bright blood steady-state free precession sequence for magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), in an animal model. The original concentration of the SPIO of 500,mmol Fe/l and dilutions to 250, 125, 60, 30, 10 and 5,mmol Fe/l were intra-arterially injected into the aorta of a pig. Then the dilution of 10,mmol Fe/l was chosen for repeated intra-arterial injections into two pigs. During these intra-arterial SPIO injections MR images were acquired with a 1.5,T scanner. Signal intensity measurements were performed in the aorta. The signal-to-noise ratio during SPIO bolus passage was significantly less than during baseline conditions (Fisher's F -ratio 159.8, p,<,0.005) or the recovery signal-to-noise ratio (Fisher's F -ratio 144.6, p,<,0.005). Also, confirmation of flow distal to the catheter-tip position was possible. The use of SPIO as a dark blood agent in combination with a bright blood MR imaging sequence is feasible. Temporary loss of intraluminal signal occurs due to local decrease of the signal because of induction of local inhomogeneities after mixture the present blood and SPIO solution. It provides immediate information about blood flow distal to the catheter and is a potentially useful to guide intravascular MR-interventional procedures. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [source] Effects of motilin on intracellular free calcium in cultured smooth muscle cells from the antrum of neonatal ratsACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010P. Fang Abstract Aim:, The aim of this study was to determine the effects of motilin on [Ca2+]i regulation and its underlying molecular mechanism in cultured antral smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Methods:, Antral cells were isolated and cultured from neonatal rats, and then the [Ca2+]i in these cells was evaluated by calcium fluorescent probe Fluo-3/AM on a laser scanning confocal microscope. Results:, We show that motilin dose-dependently increased [Ca2+]i concentration in cultured ASMCs. Pre-incubation of cells with either the calcium antagonist verapamil (10,5 mol L,1) or the calcium chelator Egtazic (EGTA, 0.1 mmol L,1) significantly suppressed motilin (10,6 mol L,1) induced [Ca2+]i increase as indicated by fluorescent intensity. Interestingly, after mixing with the non-selective intracellular calcium release blocker TMB-8 (10,5 mol L,1), guanosine triphosphate regulatory protein antagonist NEM (10,5 mol L,1), phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor compound 48/80 (1.2 ,g mL,1) and ryanodine at high concentration (10,5 mol L,1), the motilin-induced [Ca2+]i increase was only partially blocked. The protein kinase C inhibitor d -sphingosine (10,6 mol L,1), however, did not show any inhibitory effect on motilin-induced [Ca2+]i elevation. Conclusions:, Our study suggests that motilin-stimulated [Ca2+]i elevation in ASMCs is probably due to sustained extracellular Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release from Ca2+ stores via inositol tris-phosphate receptors and ryanodine receptors. Specifically, motilin-induced [Ca2+]i release is accompanied with guanosine triphosphate-binding protein-coupled receptor,PLC,inositol tris-phosphate signalling cascades. [source] Prolonged exposure to inhaled nitric oxide transiently modifies tubular function in healthy piglets and promotes tubular apoptosisACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2009W. Go, dzik Abstract Aim:, Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is a selective pulmonary vasodilator. We hypothesized that those piglets exposed to prolonged iNO react with a modified renal function. Methods:, Randomized, placebo-controlled exposure to 40 p.p.m. iNO (30 h) in piglets (n = 20). Plasma and urine were sampled during three periods (first and second 12 h periods, and finally a 6 h period). We measured urine volumes, plasma and urine electrolytes (UNa, UK, UCl), plasma creatinine and urea. We calculated creatinine clearance (Ccr), and fractional excretions of sodium and potassium (FENa, FEK) and urinary excretions of electrolytes (UENa, UEK, UECl). Haemodynamic data were recorded and renal tubular apoptosis detected. Results:, For the first 12 h, certain parameters significantly increased in the iNO group (mean ± SD): UNa (mmol L,1), 87.7 (±35.0) vs. 39.3 (±22.9), UCl (mmol L,1) 80.4 (±32.8) vs. 48.0 (±26.7), FENa (%) 2.1 (±0.8) vs. 0.7 (±0.5), FEK (%) 31.7 (±7.0) vs. 20.7 (±12.3), as well as UENa (mmol) 61.0 (±21.1) vs. 27.6 (±17.9) and UECl (mmol) 57.3 (24.5) vs. 37.6 (29.0). These changes were absent in the second and third periods of the study. Significant differences in percentage of apoptotic cell nuclei in the renal cortex and medulla were found after iNO exposure: 39% vs. 15%. Conclusion:, Exposure to 40 p.p.m. iNO in healthy anaesthetized piglets has a transient natriuretic effect that disappears after 12 h. We also found evidence of renal tubular apoptosis promotion after 30 h of iNO. [source] Imidazoline-induced amplification of glucose- and carbachol-stimulated insulin release includes a marked suppression of islet nitric oxide generation in the mouseACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 3 2009S. Meidute-Abaraviciene Abstract Aim:, The role of islet nitric oxide (NO) production in insulin-releasing mechanisms is unclear. We examined whether the beneficial effects of the imidazoline derivative RX 871024 (RX) on ,-cell function might be related to perturbations of islet NO production. Methods:, Experiments were performed with isolated islets or intact mice challenged with glucose or carbachol with or without RX treatment. Insulin was determined with radioimmunoassay, NO generation with high-performance liquid chromatography and expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) with confocal microscopy. Results:, RX treatment, in doses lacking effects on basal insulin, greatly amplified insulin release stimulated by the NO-generating secretagogues glucose and carbachol both in vitro and in vivo. RX also improved the glucose tolerance curve. Islets incubated at high glucose levels (20 mmol L,1) displayed increased NO production derived from both neuronal constitutive NO synthase (ncNOS) and iNOS. RX abrogated this glucose-induced NO production concomitant with amplification of insulin release. Confocal microscopy revealed abundant iNOS expression in , cells after incubation of islets at high but not low glucose levels. This was abolished after RX treatment. Similarly, islets cultured for 24 h at high glucose levels showed intense iNOS expression in , cells. This was abrogated with RX and followed by an amplified glucose-induced insulin release. Conclusion:, RX effectively counteracts the negative impact of ,-cell NO generation on insulin release stimulated by glucose and carbachol suggesting imidazoline compounds by virtue of NOS inhibitory properties being of potential therapeutic value for treatment of ,-cell dysfunction in hyperglycaemia and type 2 diabetes. [source] Vacuolar H+ -ATPase expression is increased in acid-secreting intercalated cells in kidneys of rats with hypercalcaemia-induced alkalosisACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2007W. Wang Abstract Aims:, Hypercalcaemia is known to be associated with systemic metabolic alkalosis, although the underlying mechanism is uncertain. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether hypercalcaemia was associated with changes in the expression of acid,base transporters in the kidney. Methods:, Rats were infused with human parathyroid hormone (PTH, 15 ,g kg,1 day,1), or vehicle for 48 h using osmotic minipumps. Results:, The rats treated with PTH developed hypercalcaemia and exhibited metabolic alkalosis (arterial HCO: 31.1 ± 0.8 vs. 28.1 ± 0.8 mmol L,1 in controls, P < 0.05, n = 6), whereas the urine pH of 6.85 ± 0.1 was significantly decreased compared with the pH of 7.38 ± 0.1 in controls (P < 0.05, n = 12). The observed alkalosis was associated with a significantly increased expression of the B1-subunit of the H+ -ATPase in kidney inner medulla (IM, 233 ± 45% of the control level). In contrast, electroneutral Na+ -HCO cotransporter NBCn1 and Cl,/HCO anion exchanger AE2 expression was markedly reduced in the inner stripe of the outer medulla (to 26 ± 9% and 65 ± 6%, respectively). These findings were verified by immunohistochemistry. Conclusions:, (1) hypercalcaemia-induced metabolic alkalosis was associated with increased urinary excretion of H+; (2) the increased H+ -ATPase expression in IM may partly explain the enhanced urinary acidification, which is speculated to prevent stone formation because of hypercalciuria and (3) the decreased expression of outer medullary AE2 suggests a compensatory reduction of the transepithelial bicarbonate transport. [source] Association between fatigue and failure to preserve cerebral energy turnover during prolonged exerciseACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1 2003L. Nybo Abstract Aim: This study evaluated if the fatigue and apathy arising during exercise with hypoglycaemia could relate to a lowering of the cerebral metabolic rates of glucose and oxygen. Methods and results: Six males completed 3 h of cycling with or without glucose supplementation in random order. Cerebral blood flow, metabolism and interleukin-6 (IL-6) release were evaluated with the Kety,Schmidt technique. Blood glucose was maintained during the glucose trial, while it decreased from 5.2 ± 0.1 to 2.9 ± 0.3 mmol L,1 (mean ± SE) after 180 min of exercise in the placebo trial with a concomitant increase in perceived exertion (P < 0.05). During hypoglycaemia, the cerebral glucose uptake was reduced from 0.34 ± 0.05 to 0.28 ± 0.04 ,mol g,1 min,1, while the cerebral uptake of , -hydroxybutyrate increased to 5 ± 1 pmol g,1 min,1 (P < 0.05). The reduced glucose uptake was accompanied by a lowering of the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen from 1.84 ± 0.19 mmol g,1 min,1 during exercise with glucose supplementation to 1.60 ± 0.16 mmol g,1 min,1 during hypoglycaemia (P < 0.05). In addition, the cerebral IL-6 release was reduced from 0.4 ± 0.1 to 0.0 ± 0.1 pg g,1 min,1 (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Exercise-induced hypoglycaemia limits the cerebral uptake of glucose, exacerbates exercise, reduces the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen and attenuates the release of IL-6 from the brain. [source] Lithium and KB-R7943 effects on mechanics and energetics of rat heart muscleACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1 2002P. Bonazzola ABSTRACT The role of calcium influx on energy expenditure during cardiac contraction was studied. For this purpose, the described ability of lithium and KB-R 7943 (KBR) to diminish Ca entry through Na,Ca exchanger (Ponce-Hornos & Langer, J Mol Cell Cardiol 1980, 12, 1367, Satoh et al., Circulation 2000, 101, 1441) were used. In isolated contractions (contractions elicited after at least 5 min of rest) LiCl 45 mmol L,1 decreased pressure developed and pressure,time integral from 42.3 ± 2.7 and 14.5 ± 1.2 to 32.1 ± 3.4 mN mm,2 and 8.3 ± 0.9 mN mm,2 s, respectively. A similar effect was observed in regular contractions (at 0.16 Hz stimulation). The presence of KBR (5 ,mol L,1) in the perfusate induced a slight but not significant decrease in pressure developed and pressure,time integral in steady-state contractions. As it was previously described, the heat involved in a heart muscle contraction can be decomposed into several components (H1, H2, H3 and H4), but only one (H3) was associated with force generation. While H3 decreased with lithium in both types of contractions, H3/PtI ratio remained unaltered, indicating that the economy for pressure maintenance was unaffected. To further investigate the role of Ca entry on force development, a condition in which the contraction is mainly dependent on extracellular calcium was studied. An ,extra' stimulus applied 200 ms after the regular one in a muscle stimulated at 0.16 Hz induces a contraction with this characteristic (Marengo et al., Am J Physiol 1999, 276, H309). Lithium induced a strong decrease in pressure,time integral and H3 associated with this contraction (43 and 45%, respectively) with no change in H3/PtI ratio. Lithium also reduced (53%) an energy component (H2) associated with Ca cycling. The use of KBR showed qualitatively similar results [i.e. a 33% reduction in pressure,time integral associated with the extrasystole (ES) with no changes in H3/PtI ratio and a 30% reduction in the H2 component]. Li and KBR effects appear to be additive and in the presence of 45 mmol L,1 Li and 5 ,mol L,1 KBR the extrasystole was abolished in 77%. Lithium and KBR effects particularly for the extrasystole can be explained through the inhibition of Ca entry via Na,Ca exchange giving support to the participation of the Na,Ca exchanger in the Ca influx from the extracellular space. In addition, the results also suggest the possibility of an effect of Li on an additional Ca sensitive locus (different than the Na,Ca exchanger). In this connection, in isolated contractions lithium decreased the energy release fraction related to mitochondrial processes (H4) increasing the economy of the overall cardiac contraction. [source] Chitosan Incorporating Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Simultaneous Determination of Ascorbic Acid and DopamineELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 17 2007Xuelian Zou Abstract Simultaneous determination of a neurotransmitter, dopamine (DA), and ascorbic acid (AA) is achieved at neutral pH on a chitosan incorporating cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) modified glassy carbon (GC) electrode. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique was used to investigate the electrochemical response of DA and AA at a glassy carbon electrode modified with chitosan incorporating CTAB. An optimum 6.0,mmol L,1 of CTAB together with 0.5 wt% of chitosan was used to improve the resolution and the determination sensitivity. In 0.1,mol L,1 aqueous phosphate buffer solution of pH,6.8, the chitosan-CTAB modified electrode showed a good electrocatalytic response towards DA and AA. The anodic peak potential of DA shifted positively, while that of AA shifted negatively. Thus, the difference of the anodic peaks of DA and AA reached 0.23,V, which was enough to separate the two anodic peaks very well. The presented method herein could be applied to the direct simultaneous determination of DA and AA without prior treatment. The anodic peak currents (Ipa) of DPV are proportional to DA in the concentration range of 8,,M to 1000,,M, to that of AA 10,,M to 2000,,M, with correlation coefficients of 0.9930 and 0.9945, respectively. The linear range is much wider than previously reported. [source] Genetic influence in antithrombotic actions of atorvastatin in hypercholesterolaemiaEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 1 2008L. Puccetti ABSTRACT Background, Recent data indicate that statins could offer coronary artery disease (CAD) benefit even by mechanisms beyond lipid lowering. Genetic influence has been shown for some antithrombotic actions of statins via oxidized-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (ox-LDL) receptors and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity modulation. The present study was designed to evaluate the influence of ox-LDL lectin-like receptor-1 (LOX-1) and NOS polymorphisms in the incidence of cardiovascular events in pure hypercholesterolaemic subjects during statin treatment. Materials and methods, A prospective 4-year study involving 1039 event-free subjects (643 males, 396 females) treated with atorvastatin (10,40 mg day,1) to reach the appropriate Adult Treatment Panel-III LDL target of 3·36 mmol L,1. Enrolled subjects were evaluated every 6 months or at a clinical event. LOX-1 3,UTR/T-C and NOS G894T polymorphisms were detected by allelic discrimination assays (polymerase chain reaction), lipid profile by enzymatic-colorimetric method, ox-LDL by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, platelet activation by P-selectin (P-sel) expression (FACScan), NOS activity (by intracellular citrullin recovery) and homocysteine (high performance liquid chromatography), C-reactive protein (CRP) by sensitive nephelometric technique. Results, LOX-1 3,UTR/T showed the strongest association with events in the whole cohort with respect to each other variable including LDL reduction and NOS G894T (OR 4·90, 95% CI 3·19,6·98, P < 0·00001). Smoking influenced events in LDL-targeted subjects (P < 0·0001). Ox-LDL and P-sel were better indicators than LDL or other variables according to 3,UTR/C genotype regardless of the magnitude of LDL reduction (OR 4·21, 95% CI 2·29,6·70 P < 0·0001). Conclusions, LOX-1 polymorphisms could influence statin effectiveness in CAD prevention by induction of sensitivity to antithrombotic mechanisms such as antiplatelet activity. [source] Is postprandial hypertriglyceridaemia in relatives of type 2 diabetic subjects a consequence of insulin resistance?EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 2 2005A. Kriketos Abstract Background, Higher postprandial triglyceride responses reported in first degree relatives of people with type 2 diabetes (REL) were postulated to be the result of an early, possibly intrinsic, defect in oral lipid handling. The postprandial triglyceride response to high fat meals (HFM) in normal subjects is reduced by the insulin response to dietary carbohydrate (CHO) in the meal. The aims of this study were to examine whether (1) insulin resistance is associated with an intrinsic defect in triglyceride handling in insulin-resistant REL and (2) insulin resistance is associated with altered triglyceride handling after HFM with high CHO content. Materials and methods, Postprandial responses to a HFM in normolipidaemic, normoglycaemic REL were compared with subjects without a family history of diabetes mellitus (CON). Over 6 h, the insulin, glucose, triglyceride and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) responses after a high fat (80 g fat), low CHO (HFM-LC; 20 g CHO, 4250 kJ) meal and a high fat, high CHO (HFM-HC; 100 g CHO, 5450 kJ) meal were examined. Results, The 10 (7F/3M) REL were significantly more insulin-resistant, determined by glucose infusion during a hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic clamp than the 10 (5F/5M) CON (glucose infusion rate 44·6 ± 4·9 vs. 60·0 ± 4·8 µmol min,1 kg FFM,1, P = 0·037). Subjects were similar for age and body mass index (BMI). The triglyceride increments after the HFM-LC were similar in both, peaking at 180,240 min (,0·77 ± 0·11 mmol L,1), demonstrating no postprandial defect in REL, despite insulin resistance. There was a significantly lower postprandial triglyceride response in CON following the HFM-HC compared with the HFM-LC, but not in REL. In contrast, the higher insulin level during the HFM-HC was associated with significantly greater NEFA level suppression than in the HFM-LC (2·13 ± 0·51 vs. 0·70 ± 0·35 mmol L,1, P = 0·03), only in the REL. Conclusions, These results are inconsistent with a primary aetiological role for postprandial hypertriglyceridaemia in already insulin resistant type 2 diabetic REL, but raise the possibility that this potentially atherogenic manifestation is secondary to insulin resistance lessening VLDL production and/or release from the liver. [source] Elevated sweat sodium associated with pulmonary oedema in meningococcal sepsisEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 8 2004M. Eisenhut Abstract Background, We observed a temporary positive sweat test with sodium and chloride levels greater than 60 mmol L,1 following meningococcal septicaemia. Objective was to investigate whether this finding is reproducible and whether this disturbance in epithelial sodium transport is related to sepsis-induced pulmonary oedema. Materials and methods, Twenty-four children with a diagnosis of meningococcal septicaemia and 10 controls with noninfectious critical illness admitted to the Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital were included. Sweat collection was by pilocarpine iontophoresis in the acute phase of the illness (days 1,5) and on follow up. Sodium and chloride concentrations were determined by flame photometry. Results, In patients with meningococcal septicaemia, sweat sodium and chloride concentrations were significantly higher in the acute compared with the recovery phase, with a mean (SD) of 31·0 (14·6) mmol L,1 in the acute vs. 19·6 (10·2) mmol L,1 on recovery for sodium and 21·0 (12·1) mmol L,1 in the acute vs. 11·8 (4·9) mmol L,1 on recovery for chloride (P < 0·01, t -test, for sodium and chloride). Sweat sodium and chloride were significantly higher in patients with meningococcal disease compared with controls and in the acute phase in patients with septicaemia-related pulmonary oedema [mean (SD) sodium: 41·0 (15·4) mmol L,1 and chloride: 28·8 (14·3) mmol L,1] compared with septic patients without [mean (SD) sodium: 24·5 (10·1) mmol L,1 and chloride: 15·3 (7·9) mmol L,1] (P < 0·01 for sodium and chloride). Conclusions, This is the first study to provide in vivo evidence of reduced epithelial sodium transport in children with septicaemia and of its association with pulmonary oedema. [source] Structural myocardial changes after coronary artery surgeryEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 11 2000F. Eberhardt Background Postoperative contractile dysfunction or ,myocardial stunning' has been described after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In the present study we sought to determine if and to what extent clinical, structural and histochemical evidence of myocardial changes associated with stunning could be found in patients after CABG and cold crystalloid cardioplegia. Materials and methods Left ventricular (LV) biopsies were obtained from CABG patients (n = 10) prior to and at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). These biopsies were immunostained for the inducible heat-shock protein 70 (HSP-70i), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and actin. ATP was measured by bioluminescence. Results Biopsies pre-CPB showed no evidence of myocardial damage as HSP-70i was absent and a regular actin cross-striation pattern and only constitutive ICAM-1-expression were present. After CPB we found significantly increased HSP-70i and ICAM-1 levels as well as a deranged actin cross-striation pattern with a widening of actin bands. ATP levels declined from 10 mmol L,1 pre-CPB to 4.9 mmol L,1 after CPB. Correspondingly, coronary sinus effluent showed a significant lactate production. Although, cardiac function determined by transoesophageal echocardiography did not deteriorate, significant inotropic support was necessary to maintain cardiac output. Conclusions Our results present clinical and structural evidence of ,myocardial stunning' after CABG and cold crystalloid cardioplegia. Increased HSP-70i and ICAM-1 expression, as well as a deranged actin cross-striation pattern, might be structural markers to determine ,myocardial stunning' in clinical settings. [source] The bile acid receptor TGR5 (Gpbar-1) acts as a neurosteroid receptor in brainGLIA, Issue 15 2010Verena Keitel Abstract TGR5 (Gpbar-1) is a membrane-bound bile acid receptor in the gastrointestinal tract and immune cells with pleiotropic actions. As shown in the present study, TGR5 is also expressed in astrocytes and neurons. Here, TGR5 may act as a neurosteroid receptor, which is activated by nanomolar concentrations of 5,-pregnan-3,-ol-20-one and micromolar concentrations of 5,-pregnan-3,-17,-21-triol-20-one and 5,-pregnan-3,-ol-20-one (allopregnanolone). TGR5 stimulation in astrocytes and neurons is coupled to adenylate cyclase activation, elevation of intracellular Ca2+ and the generation of reactive oxygen species. In cultured rat astrocytes, TGR5 mRNA is downregulated in the presence of neurosteroids and ammonia already at concentrations of 0.5 mmol L,1. Furthermore, TGR5 protein levels are significantly reduced in isolated rat astrocytes after incubation with ammonia. A marked downregulation of TGR5 mRNA is also found in cerebral cortex from cirrhotic patients dying with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) when compared with brains from noncirrhotic control subjects. It is concluded that TGR5 is a novel neurosteroid receptor in brain with implications for the pathogenesis of HE. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Mechanism of blood coagulation in common carp (Cyprinus carpio)INTEGRATIVE ZOOLOGY (ELECTRONIC), Issue 3 2006Shuangan LI Abstract In vitro, carp blood was anticoagulated by using MgSO4 at a final concentration of 22.2 mmol L,1 and sodium citrate at a final concentration of 11.8 mmol L,1. The coagulation times for carp plasma diluted by ion-free water (1:1), and that of carp plasma to which thrombocytes and small lymphocytes were added, were measured at 23 °C using standard methods, and then contrasted with the coagulation times for plasma obtained from chickens and rabbits. The shapes of the thrombocytes and small lymphocytes, which were either wet mounted or stained with hematoxylin and eosin, were observed under a light microscope. We found that: (i) the coagulation reaction of carp blood was significantly (P < 0.01) accelerated by the addition of ion-free water; (ii) the three types of blood cells (thrombocytes, small lymphocytes and red blood cells) promoted plasma coagulation to a similar extent (P > 0.05); (iii) in carp Mg2+ plasma and K2C2O4 plasma, the thrombocytes were usually morphologically normal, but many small lymphocytes were destroyed and became aggregated; (iv) in the citrate plasma, thrombocytes were often aggregated, but the small lymphocytes were usually morphologically normal; and (v) the coagulation time for chicken and rabbit plasma was significantly extended by adding ion-free water. [source] Hydrogen peroxide induces expression and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase in a dental pulp cell lineINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 3 2008Y. Fukuyama Abstract Aim, To investigate the effects of hydrogen peroxide on cell viability and expression and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in rat dental pulp cell line RPC-C2A. Methodology, RPC-C2A cells derived from rat dental pulp were maintained in MEM supplemented with 10% FBS at 37 °C, in a humidified atmosphere at 5% CO2. Cells were cultured in the presence or absence of H2O2 for up to 60 min at concentrations of from 0.1 to 3.0 mmol L,1. Cell viability was analysed by WST-1 reduction assay. Expression of AMPK subunit isoforms was analysed by Western blotting using antibodies to the catalytic ,1 and regulatory ,1 and ,1 subunit isoforms. The effect of silencing AMPK,1 on cell viability was determined using siRNA. Results, Exposure to H2O2 decreased cell viability in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The catalytic AMPK,1 subunit and its activated form, phospho-AMPK,, increased with exposure to H2O2 in a time- and dose-dependent manner, whereas the regulatory ,1 and ,1 subunits showed no change. Downregulation of AMPK,1 resulted in a reduction in cell viability in H2O2 -treated cells at a concentration of 0.1 mmol L,1 for 30 min incubation, indicating an increased sensitivity to H2O2. Conclusions, Reactive oxygen induced energy fuel gauge enzyme AMPK, expression and its activation by phosphorylation in RPC-C2A cells, suggesting that AMPK is essential for protection against H2O2 -induced nonapoptotic cell death. Therefore, AMPK may be a therapeutic modulation target for treatment of the dentine,pulp complex injured by reactive oxygen. [source] Mitigating stress effects during transportation of matrinxć (Brycon amazonicus Günther, 1869; Characidae) through the application of calcium sulfateJOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 2 2009F. Bendhack Summary This study verified the effects of CaSO4 on physiological responses of the tropical fish matrinxćBrycon amazonicus (200.2 ± 51.1 g) in water containing CaSO4 after a 4-h transportation at concentrations of: 0, 75, 150, and 300 mg L,1. Blood samples were collected prior to transportation (initial levels), immediately after packaging, at arrival, and 24 h and 96 h after transportation (recovery). Cortisol levels increased after packaging (118.2 ± 14.2 ng ml,1), and decreased slightly after transportation in water containing CaSO4 (106.8 ± 14.1), but remained higher than initial levels (21.0 ± 2.6 ng ml,1). Fish kept at 150 mg L,1 CaSO4 reached the pre-transportation levels at 24 h of recovery. Blood glucose increased after transportation in all treatments (8.2 ± 0.2 mmol L,1) and declined after full recovery to values below initial levels (4.8 ± 0.1 mmol L,1). Chloride levels did not change in CaSO4 treatments; serum sodium concentrations decreased after packaging and after transportation. Serum calcium levels did not differ among treatments, but decreased after packaging and increased at 96 h of recovery. Hematocrit and the number of red blood cells were higher in all treatments after packaging and arrival, except in fish exposed to 300 mg L,1 CaSO4. Mean corpuscular volume increased in 75 mg L,1 CaSO4, which reached the higher VCM after transportation. Hemoglobin levels increased only after transportation, regardless of calcium sulfate levels. Handling before transportation and transportation itself were both stressful to fish; calcium sulfate at concentrations tested in the present work had a moderate influence in the reduction of stress responses. [source] Purification and characterization of solvent-tolerant, thermostable, alkaline metalloprotease from alkalophilic Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 7926JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 9 2009Ulhas Patil Abstract BACKGROUND: Microbial proteases are becoming imperative for commercial applications. The protease secreted by Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 7926, isolated from solvent-contaminated habitat was purified and characterized for activity at various edaphic conditions. The purified alkaline protease was investigated for dehairing of animal skin, anti-staphylococcal activity and processing of X-ray film. RESULTS: The protease was 24-fold purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation, sephadex G-100 gel filtration and DEAE-cellulose, with 36% recovery. KM and Vmax, using casein were 2.94 mg mL,1 and 1.27 µmole min,1, respectively. The apparent molecular mass by SDS-PAGE was 35 kDa. Alkaline protease was active at pH 6,11 and temperature 25,65 °C. Its activity was (a) 86.8% in 100 mmol L,1 NaCl, (b) >95% in metal ions (Mn2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+) for 1 h, (c) >90% in bleaching agents and chemical surfactants, (d) 135.4 ± 2.0% and 119.9 ± 6.2% with rhamnolipid and cyclodextrin, respectively, (e) stable in solvents for 5,30 days at 27 °C, and (f) inhibited by EDTA, indicating metalloprotein. CONCLUSION: This work showed that purified protease retained its activity in surfactants, solvents, metals, and bleaching agents. The enzyme is an alternative for detergent formulations, dehairing of animal skin, X-ray film processing, treatment of staphylococcal infections and possibly non-aqueous enzymatic peptide synthesis. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Influence of salinity on lead and cadmium accumulation by the salt cedar (Tamarix smyrnensis Bunge)JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2009Eleni Manousaki Abstract BACKGROUND: The removal of heavy metals from polluted soils through the use of suitable plants has attracted much interest over recent decades. In this study Tamarix smyrnensis Bunge has been investigated for the characterization of its metal tolerance and ability to accumulate Pb and Cd, in order to evaluate its effectiveness as a cleanup tool for phytoextraction applications. For this purpose, two hydroponic experiments were performed, one with lead at concentration 100 ppm and a second with cadmium at concentration 5 ppm and at three different salt concentrations (0, 100, 200 mmol L,1 NaCl). RESULTS: The experimental results showed that Pb and Cd accumulation in shoots ranged from 150,270 ppm and 7.5,42 ppm, respectively, and salinity was found to increase metal accumulation in shoots. However, the presence of high metal and salt concentrations affected negatively the health and finally the survival of the plants. CONCLUSION:T. smyrnensis is neither a Pb nor a Cd hyperaccumulator; however, metal accumulation levels in shoots considered together with its high biomass production suggest that it could be used for phytoextraction applications. Furthermore, salinity has a positive influence on Pb and Cd accumulation in harvestable parts of the plant when it remains in low concentrations. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Over-expression of glycerol dehydrogenase and 1,3-propanediol oxidoreductase in Klebsiella pneumoniae and their effects on conversion of glycerol into 1,3-propanediol in resting cell systemJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Li Zhao Abstract BACKGROUND: Glycerol dehydrogenase [EC.1.1.1.6] and 1,3-propanediol oxidoreductase [EC.1.1.1.202] were proved to be two of the key enzymes for glycerol conversion to 1,3-propanediol in Klebsiella pneumoniae under anaerobic conditions. For insight into their significance on 1,3-propanediol production under micro-aerobic conditions, these two enzymes were over-expressed in K. pneumoniae individually, and their effects on conversion of glycerol into 1,3-propanediol in a resting cell system under micro-aerobic conditions were investigated. RESULTS: In the resting cell system, over-expression of 1,3-propanediol oxidoreductase led to faster glycerol conversion and 1,3-propanediol production. After a 12 h conversion process, it improved the yield of 1,3-propanediol by 20.4% (222.1 mmol L,1 versus 184.4 mmol L,1) and enhanced the conversion ratio of glycerol into 1,3-propanediol from 50.8% to 59.8% (mol mol,1). Over-expression of glycerol dehydrogenase in K. pneumoniae had no significant influence both on 1,3-propanediol yield and on the conversion ratio of glycerol into 1,3-propanediol in the resting cell system. CONCLUSION: The results were important for an understanding of the significance of glycerol dehydrogenase and 1,3-propanediol oxidoreductase in 1,3-proanediol production under micro-aerobic conditions, and for developing better strategies to improve 1,3-propanediol yield. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Purification and characterization of an organic solvent and detergent-tolerant novel protease produced by Bacillus sp.JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 11 2008Abstract BACKGROUND: Purification and characterization of a novel protease produced by Bacillus sp. RKY3, has been investigated, with special emphasis on the stability of the enzyme in the presence of different oxidizing and reducing agents as well as organic solvents. The enzyme was purified in two steps through concentration of the crude enzyme by ammonium sulfate precipitation, followed by anion exchange chromatography. RESULTS: The purified protease had a molecular mass of approximately 38 kDa, which was highly active over a broad range of pH between 7.0 and 9.0 and was also stable over a wide pH range from 5.0 to 11.0. Although the optimum temperature for enzyme activity was found to be 60 °C, it was rapidly deactivated at temperatures above 60 °C. It also showed good stability at 50 °C, with a 70 min half-life. Ca2+ ions did not greatly enhance the activity or the stability of the enzyme. PMSF (1 mmol L,1) completely inhibited the protease activity, and thus the purified protease was considered to be serine protease. The purified protease was stable with oxidants (H2O2, 2%), reducing agents (sodium dodecyl sulfate, 2%), and organic solvents (25%) such as benzene, hexane, and toluene. CONCLUSION: The purified enzyme, protease, seems to possess potential applications in protease-based detergent and bleaching industries. The enzymatic activity against a wide variety of substrates suggests that the purified enzyme should be investigated for a range of commercial applications, especially for soy protein and gelatin hydrolysis in the food processing industry. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Biodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene using recombinant Pseudomonas strainJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 3 2008Lavanya Meesala Abstract BACKGROUND: The sulfur content in crude oil available from various sources ranges from 0.03 to values as high as 8.0 wt%. These high quantities of sulfur must be removed before the crude oil is processed because combustion of this oil would result in severe environmental pollution, such as acid rain. Due to high utility and operating costs, the conventional hydrodesulfurization process (HDS) is considered to be uneconomic. The biotechnological option, biodesulfurization (BDS) seems an attractive low cost, environmentally benign technology. RESULTS: This paper reports the development of a recombinant strain of bacteria designed by introducing desulfurizing, dsz genes containing plasmid pSAD 225-32, which was isolated from Rhodococcus erythropolis IGTS8 into a gram negative solvent-tolerant bacterium, Pseudomonas putida (MTCC 1194). This recombinant bacterium can desulfurize the dibenzothiophene (DBT) in the sulfur selective 4S-pathway. It has been observed that for the same concentration of DBT, the recombinant strain's growth rate is greater than that of the parent strain. Increasing the concentration of DBT resulted in an increase of lag phase as well as decreased growth rate, which shows that the bacteria is following substrate inhibition type kinetics. This genetically modified bacterium can desulfurize 73.1% of 1.2 mmol L,1 DBT (dissolved in ethanol) in 67 h of cultivation time using growing cells. CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that further research in this area of biodesulfurization using genetically modified organisms may remove the bottlenecks presently in the way of commercialization of the BDS process. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Effects of early breastfeeding on neonatal glucose levels of term infants born to women with gestational diabetesJOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 2 2009I. R. A. Chertok Abstract Background:, Infants born to diabetic women are at higher risk for hypoglycaemia related to hyperinsulinism in response to maternal hyperglycaemia during pregnancy. As such, recommendations to prevent neonatal hypoglycaemia include infant feeding in the early postpartum period. The present study aimed to examine the effect of early breastfeeding and type of nutrition used for the first feed (human milk or formula) on glucose levels in infants born to women with gestational diabetes. Methods:, The prospective pilot study of 84 infants born to gestational diabetic women examined the glycaemic levels of infants who were breastfed in the delivery room compared to glycaemic levels of those who were not. The study also compared the glycaemic levels of infants who breastfed with those who received formula for their first feed. Results:, Infants who were breastfed in the delivery room had a significantly lower rate of borderline hypoglycaemia than those who were not breastfed in the early postpartum period (10% versus 28%; Fisher's exact test., P = 0.05,). Likewise, infants breastfed in the delivery room had significantly higher mean blood glucose level compared to infants who were not breastfed in the delivery room (3.17 versus 2.86 mmol L,1, P = 0.03). Additionally, breastfed infants had a significantly higher mean blood glucose level compared to those who were formula fed for their first feed (3.20 versus 2.68 mmol L,1, P = 0.002). Conclusions:, Early breastfeeding may facilitate glycaemic stability in infants born to women with gestational diabetes. [source] Changing from a mixed to self-selected vegetarian diet , influence on blood lipidsJOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 5 2002F. Robinson Abstract Objective To observe any changes in serum concentrations of lipids, when UK meat-eaters switch to a self selected vegetarian diet for 6 months. Design Observational study using capillary blood samples and 3-day estimated dietary diary. Setting Free-living subjects in the North-West of England. Subjects Twelve male and 31 female adult volunteers aged between 18 and 42 years. Outcome measures Serum lipids; nutrient intake and anthropometric measurements at baseline and 6 months after switching to a self-selected vegetarian diet. Results Total energy intake and amount of energy derived from saturated fatty acids decreased significantly after changing to a vegetarian diet (P < 0.05) whereas energy derived from carbohydrate, and intakes of nonstarch polysaccharide intake increased. On switching to a vegetarian diet, total cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations were not significantly changed, but HDL-C was 21% higher than at baseline (1.21 mmol L,1 vs. 1.47 mmol L,1; P = 0.001). Conclusions These results suggest that beneficial changes to diet occurred on changing to a self-selected vegetarian diet. Changing to a self-selected vegetarian diet appears to be one way of achieving a better blood lipid profile. [source] A combination of HbA1c, fasting glucose and BMI is effective in screening for individuals at risk of future type 2 diabetes: OGTT is not neededJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 3 2006M. NORBERG Abstract. Objective., To identify a screening model that predicts high risk of future type 2 diabetes and is useful in clinical practice. Design and methods., Incident case-referent study nested within a population-based health survey. We compared screening models with three risk criteria and calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values and attributable proportion. We used fasting plasma glucose (FPG) alone or with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), glycosylated haemoglobin A (HbA1c) (normal range 3.6,5.3%), body mass index (BMI), triglycerides and family history of diabetes (FHD). Setting., Participants in a health survey at all primary care centres (n = 33 336) and subjects with diagnosed type 2 diabetes in primary and hospital care (n = 6088) in Umeå during 1989,2001. Subjects., Each of the 164 subjects who developed clinically diagnosed type 2 diabetes (median time to diagnosis of 5.4 years) and 304 sex- and age-matched referents without diabetes diagnosis. Results., Screening models with at least one criterion present had sensitivities of 0.90,0.96, specificities of 0.43,0.57 and PPVs of 8,9%. Combinations of the criteria, FPG , 6.1 mmol L,1 (capillary plasma), HbA1c , 4.7% and BMI , 27 in men and BMI , 30 in women, had sensitivities, specificities and PPVs of 0.66%, 0.93% and 32%, and 0.52%, 0.97% and 46% respectively. Using FHD as one of three risk criteria showed comparable results. Addition of triglycerides or OGTT did not improve the prediction. Conclusions., The combination of HbA1c, FPG and BMI are effective in screening for individuals at risk of future clinical diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. OGTT or FHD is not necessary. [source] Abnormalities of whole body protein turnover, muscle metabolism and levels of metabolic hormones in patients with chronic heart failureJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2006H. NŲRRELUND Abstract. Objective., It is well known that chronic heart failure (CHF) is associated with insulin resistance and cachexia, but little is known about the underlying substrate metabolism. The present study was undertaken to identify disturbances of basal glucose, lipid and protein metabolism. Design., We studied eight nondiabetic patients with CHF (ejection fraction 30 ± 4%) and eight healthy controls. Protein metabolism (whole body and regional muscle fluxes) and total glucose turnover were isotopically assayed. Substrate oxidation were obtained by indirect calorimetry. The metabolic response to exercise was studied by bicycle ergometry exercise. Results., Our data confirm that CHF patients have a decreased lean body mass. CHF patients are characterised by (i) decreased glucose oxidation [glucose oxidation (mg kg,1 min,1): 1.25 ± 0.09 (patients) vs. 1.55 ± 0.09 (controls), P < 0.01] and muscle glucose uptake [a , v diffglucose (,mol L,1): ,10 ± 25 (patients) vs. 70 ± 22 (controls), P < 0.01], (ii) elevated levels of free fatty acids (FFA) [FFA (mmol L,1): 0.72 ± 0.05 (patients) vs. 0.48 ± 0.03 (controls), P < 0.01] and 3-hydroxybutyrate and signs of elevated fat oxidation and muscle fat utilization [a , v diffFFA (mmol L,1): 0.12 ± 0.02 (patients) vs. 0.05 ± 0.01 (controls), P < 0.05] and (iii) elevated protein turnover and protein breakdown [phenylalanine flux (,mol kg,1 h,1): 36.4 ± 1.5 (patients) vs. 29.6 ± 1.3 (controls), P < 0.01]. Patients had high circulating levels of noradrenaline, glucagon, and adiponectin, and low levels of ghrelin. We failed to observe any differences in metabolic responses between controls and patients during short-term exercise. Conclusions., In the basal fasting state patients with CHF are characterized by several metabolic abnormalities which may contribute to CHF pathophysiology and may provide a basis for targeted intervention. [source] Methanol outbreak in Norway 2002,2004: epidemiology, clinical features and prognostic signsJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2005K. E. HOVDA Abstract. Objectives., Knowledge on methanol poisoning does mainly come from clinical studies. We therefore report epidemiological, clinical and prognostic features from the large methanol outbreak in Norway in 2002,2004 where the new antidote fomepizole was the primary antidote in use. Design and subjects., Combined prospective and retrospective case series study of 51 hospitalized patients who were confirmed poisoned with methanol, of whom nine died. In addition, eight patients died outside hospital. Most patients were admitted in a late stage and because of symptoms. Treatment consisted of alkali, fomepizole (71%) and haemodialysis (73%). Results., The median serum methanol was 25.0 mmol L,1 (80 mg dL,1) (range 3.1,147.0 mmol L,1), median pH was 7.20 (6.50,7.50), and median base deficit 22 mmol L,1 (range 0,31). The most frequent clinical features reported were visual disturbances (55%), dyspnoea (41%), and gastrointestinal symptoms (43%). Twenty-four per cent were comatose on admission, of whom 67% died. There was a trend towards decreasing pCO2 with decreasing pH amongst the patients surviving. The opposite trend was demonstrated in the dying; the difference was highly significant by linear regression analyses (P < 0.001). Conclusions., Methanol poisoning still has a high morbidity and mortality, mainly because of late diagnosis and treatment. Respiratory arrest, coma and severe metabolic acidosis (pH < 6.90, base deficit >28 mmol L,1) upon admission were strong predictors of poor outcome. Early admission and ability of respiratory compensation of metabolic acidosis was associated with survival. [source] Surviving extreme hypercalcaemia , a case report and review of the literatureJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2005K. MARIENHAGEN Abstract. We report a case of extreme hypercalcaemia associated with a parathyroid adenoma in a young man. The patient presented with classical symptoms of a hypercalcaemic syndrome, and serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels were 6.92 mmol L,1 and 70.2 pmol L,1 respectively. After stabilizing the patient and reducing the calcium level, a parathyroidectomy was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful with rapidly resolving clinical symptoms. Hypercalcaemic crisis is a rare but life-threatening complication of primary hyperparathyroidism. It should be suspected in acutely ill patients complaining of muscular weakness, gastrointestinal and cerebral symptoms. To reduce mortality, it is essential to correctly diagnose the condition without delay and provide appropriate emergency management correcting hypercalcaemia and dehydration. Successful parathyroidectomy quickly relieves symptoms and prevents recurrence. [source] The effect of metformin on blood pressure, plasma cholesterol and triglycerides in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic reviewJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2004M. G. Wulffelé Abstract. Background., The UKPDS 34 showed that intensive treatment with metformin significantly reduces macrovascular end-points and mortality in individuals with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes compared with intensive treatment with insulin or sulphonylurea derivatives, despite similar glycaemic control. How this should be explained is as yet unclear. We hypothesized that metformin may have a glucose-lowering independent effect on blood pressure and lipid profile. In order to test this hypothesis we systematically reviewed the literature and pooled the data obtained in a meta-analysis. Methods., Included were randomized-controlled trials in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and metformin treatment lasting at least 6 weeks. To identify all eligible trials we conducted electronic searches using the bibliographic databases Medline and Embase, contacted the manufacturer and checked obtained publications for cross-references. Results., Forty-one studies (3074 patients) provided data on blood pressure and/or lipid profile. When compared with control treatment, metformin associated effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure and HDL cholesterol were small and statistically not significant [,1.09 mmHg 95% confidence interval (,3.01,0.82), P = 0.30; ,0.97 (,2.15,0.21) mmHg, P = 0.11 and +0.01 (,0.02,0.03) mmol L,1, P = 0.50, respectively]. Compared with control treatment, however, metformin decreased plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol significantly [,0.13 (,0.21,,0.04) mmol L,1, P = 0.003; ,0.26 (,0.34,,0.18) mmol L,1, P < 0.0001 and ,0.22 (,0.31,,0.13) mmol L,1, P < 0.00001, respectively]. We found no indications for publication bias. Of note, glycaemic control as assessed by HbA1c was better with metformin than with control treatment [,0.74 (,0.84,,0.65) percentage point; P < 0.00001]. When studies were subdivided into tertiles according to increasing difference in glycaemic control between metformin and control treatment, it appeared that in case of near similar glycaemic control metformin had no effect versus control treatment on triglycerides, whereas still there was a significant effect on total and LDL cholesterol. Conclusions., This meta-analysis of randomized-controlled clinical trials suggests that metformin has no intrinsic effect on blood pressure, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with type 2 diabetes. This drug, however, independent of its effect on glycaemia, reduces total and LDL cholesterol significantly, but the reductions in these variables are relatively small. [source] Birth weight and cardiovascular risk factors in a cohort followed until 80 years of age: the study of men born in 1913JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2004M. Eriksson Abstract. Objectives., To analyse whether there is a relation-ship between birth weight and cardiovascular risk factors given the influence of potential modifying factors from birth time, former generations and adult life. Design., Population-based cohort followed until 80 years of age. Setting., Sweden. Subjects., A total of 478 singleton men born in 1913 and participating in a population study in Gothenburg, Sweden, from age 50. Main outcome measures., Systolic blood pressure (SBP), antihypertensive treatment, incident diabetes mellitus, and serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides and waist circumference as both continuous variables and in the highest quintiles of their distributions. Results., After adjustment for the influence of birth time variables, hereditary factors and anthropometric and socio-economic adult life variables, SBP decreased by 3.7 mmHg per 1000 g increase of birth weight, the prevalence of antihypertensive treatment decreased by 32%, diabetes decreased by 53%, serum total cholesterol decreased by 0.20 mmol L,1 and being in the top quintile of serum cholesterol decreased by 23%. The population risk percentage due to a birth weight ,3000 g was for all three outcomes 3.8% and for antihypertensive treatment, diabetes and cholesterol 0.2, 18 and 2.5%, respectively. Conclusions., Low birth weight thus seems to affect the development of increasing SBP, antihypertensive treatment, diabetes and high cholesterol even when potential effect modifiers from birth time, former generations and adult life were taken into account. In the general population, the risk percentage due to a birth weight ,3000 g was largest for diabetes. [source] Diurnal triglyceridaemia and insulin resistance in mildly obese subjects with normal fasting plasma lipidsJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2004C. J. M. Halkes Abstract. Objective., A novel method has been developed to study diurnal triglyceride (TG) profiles using repeated capillary self-measurements in an ,out-of-hospital' situation. We assessed the diurnal capillary TG (TGc) profile in males with mild obesity and evaluated the use of plasma and capillary TG as markers of insulin resistance. Design., Cross-sectional study. Setting and Subjects., Fifty-four lean (body mass index, BMI < 25 kg m,2) and 27 mildly obese (25 < BMI < 30 kg m,2), normolipidaemic males measured capillary TG concentrations on six fixed time-points over a 3-day period in an ,out-of-hospital' situation. Main outcome measures., The total area under the TGc curve (TGc-AUC) and incremental area under the TGc curve (TGc-IAUC) were used as estimation of diurnal triglyceridaemia. Fasting blood samples were obtained once. Food intake was recorded by all participants. Results., Obese and lean subjects had comparable fasting capillary TG concentrations (1.37 ± 0.40 mmol L,1 and 1.32 ± 0.53 mmol L,1, respectively). However, during the day, obese subjects showed a greater TG increase, resulting in significantly higher TGc-AUC (27.1 ± 8.4 and 23.0 ± 6.3 mmol h,1 l,1, respectively; P < 0.05) and TGc-IAUC (7.9 ± 5.8 and 4.6 ± 6.6 mmolh,1 L,1, respectively; P < 0.05). The total group of 81 males was divided into quartiles based on fasting plasma TG, fasting capillary TG, TGc-AUC and TGc-IAUC. Amongst these variables, TGc-AUC was the only significant discriminator of subjects with high homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) (insulin resistance) compared with low HOMA (insulin sensitive). Overall, BMI was the strongest determinant of HOMA. Conclusions., Diurnal TG profiles can be used to investigate postprandial lipaemia in both lean and mildly obese subjects and may help to detect subjects with an underlying disposition for hypertriglyceridaemia related to insulin resistance, i.e. the metabolic syndrome. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||