Food allergies are abnormal immune responses triggered by specific foods,affecting the quality of life of millions of people worldwide.In recent years,the prevalence of food allergies has increased significantly,espec...Food allergies are abnormal immune responses triggered by specific foods,affecting the quality of life of millions of people worldwide.In recent years,the prevalence of food allergies has increased significantly,especially in Westernized countries,prompting the scientific community to explore the complex mechanisms behind them.Dietary patterns and specific dietary components are important factors related to the occurrence,development,and prevention of food allergies.Studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet,which is high in fiber,rich in antioxidants,and healthy fats,shows potential protective effects by promoting the balance of intestinal flora,maintaining the intestinal barrier,and regulating immunity.In contrast,a high-fat,high-sugar,low-fiber Western diet is associated with an increased risk of allergies.Key dietary components such as omega-3 fatty acids,dietary fiber,vitamins A,D,and E,and bioactive substances such as quercetin and curcumin can regulate immune tolerance through multiple pathways,including epigenetic regulation and affecting mitochondrial function.However,advanced glycation end products(AGEs),emulsifiers,artificial sweeteners produced by food processing,and pesticide residues(such as glyphosate)may damage the intestinal barrier,disrupt the flora,and increase the risk of allergies.This review explored the risk and protective factors for food allergies from a dietary perspective,thus benefiting the progress of intervention and therapy of food allergy.展开更多
AIM： To analyze the time interval （‘delay＇） between the first occurrence of clinical parameters associated with anastomotic leakage alter colorectal resection and subsequent relaparotomy. METHODS： In 36 out of 2...AIM： To analyze the time interval （‘delay＇） between the first occurrence of clinical parameters associated with anastomotic leakage alter colorectal resection and subsequent relaparotomy. METHODS： In 36 out of 289 consecutive patients with colorectal anastomosis, leakage was confirmed at relaparotomy. The medical records of these patients were retrospectively analysed and type and time of appearance of clinical parameters suggestive of anastomotic leakage were recorded. These parameters included heart rate, body temperature, local or generalized peritoneal reaction, leucocytosis, ileus and delayed gastric emptying. Factors influencing delay of relaparotomy and consequences of delayed recognition and treatment were determined. RESULTS： First documentation of at least one of the predefined parameters for anastomotic leakage was alter a median interval of 4 ± 1.7 d alter the operation. The median number of days between first parameter（s） associated with leakage and relaparotomy was 3.5 ± 5.7 d. The time interval between the first signs of leakage and relaparotomy was significantly longer when a weekend was included （4.2 d vs 2.4 d, P = 0.021） or radiological evaluation proved to be false-negative （8.1 d vs 3.5 d, P = 0.007）. No significant association between delay and number of additional relaparotomies, hospital stay or mortality could be demonstrated.CONCLUSION： An intervening weekend and negative diagnostic imaging reports may contribute to a delay in diagnosis and relaparotomy for anastomotic leakage. That delay was more than two days in two-thirds of the patients.展开更多
Functional constipation(FC) is a significant health problem in children and contrary to common belief, has serious ramifications on the lives of children and their families. It is defined by the Rome criteria which en...Functional constipation(FC) is a significant health problem in children and contrary to common belief, has serious ramifications on the lives of children and their families. It is defined by the Rome criteria which encourage the use of multiple clinical features for diagnosis. FC in children has a high prevalence(0.7%-29%) worldwide, both in developed and developing countries. Biopsychosocial risk factors such as psychological stress, poor dietary habits, obesity and child maltreatment are commonly identified predisposing factors for FC. FC poses a significant healthcare burden on the already overstretched health budgets of many countries in terms of out-patient care, in-patient care, expenditure for investigations and prescriptions. Complications are common and range from minor psychological disturbances, to lower health-related quality of life. FC in children also has a significant impact on families. Many paediatric clinical trials have poor methodological quality, and drugs proved to be useful in adults, are not effective in relieving symptoms in children. A significant proportion of inadequately treated children have similar symptoms as adults. These factors show that constipation is an increasing public health problem across the world with a significant medical, social and economic impact. This article highlights the potential public health impact of FC and the possibility of overcoming this problem by concentrating on modifiable risk factors rather than expending resources on high cost investigations and therapeutic modalities.展开更多
AIM： To culture human pancreatic tissue obtained from small resection specimens as a pre-clinical model for examining virus-host interactions. METHODS： Human pancreatic tissue samples （malignant and normal） were o...AIM： To culture human pancreatic tissue obtained from small resection specimens as a pre-clinical model for examining virus-host interactions. METHODS： Human pancreatic tissue samples （malignant and normal） were obtained from surgical specimens and processed immediately to tissue slices. Tissue slices were cultured ex vivo for 1-6 d in an incubator using 95% 02. Slices were subsequently analyzed for viability and morphology. In addition the slices were incubated with different viral vectors expressing the reporter genes GFP or DsRed. Expression of these reporter genes was measured at 72 h after infection.RESULTS： With the Krumdieck tissue slicer, uniform slices could be generated from pancreatic tissue but only upon embedding the tissue in 3% low melting agarose. Immunohistological examination showed the presence of all pancreatic cell types. Pancreatic normal and cancer tissue slices could be cultured for up to 6 d, while retaining viability and a moderate to good morphology. Reporter gene expression indicated that the slices could be infected and transduced efficiently by adenoviral vectors and by adeno associated viral vectors, whereas transduction with lentiviral vectors was limited. For the adenoviral vector, the transduction seemed limited to the peripheral layers of the explants. CONCLUSION： The presented system allows reproducible processing of minimal amounts of pancreatic tissue into slices uniform in size, suitable for pre-clinical evaluation of gene therapy vectors.展开更多
Objective To compare the quality and quantity of total RNA from different source-original neurons applied in LMPC technique. Methods （ 1 ） Aglient 2100 bioanalyzer and RT-PCR were used to check the concentration and...Objective To compare the quality and quantity of total RNA from different source-original neurons applied in LMPC technique. Methods （ 1 ） Aglient 2100 bioanalyzer and RT-PCR were used to check the concentration and fragmentation of total RNA from unfixed, temporal fixed and fixed 12 h hypothalamus sections; （2）Different neurons of PVN and SON were collected by LMPC, CRH, TRH, AVP, OT mRNA level were measured by RT-PCR; （3）Labeled neurons by injecting CTB into stomach and non-labeled neurons in DMV collected by LMPC were checked for house keeping genes by RT-PCR. Results （ 1 ） Unfixed section had higher concentration and better quality of total RNA compared with fixed sections applied in LMPC ; relative short amplicons such as GAPDH, NSE, MCH and MCAR were successfully obtained from fixed and unfixed and long amplicon of GR can only be obtained from unfixed material; （2） In magnocellular PVN and SON the expressions of AVP and OT were more special than those in the parvocellular PVN. Oppositely, the expressions of CRH, TRH in the parvocellular were more special than the other two ; （3） The expressions of house keeping genes had no significant difference between labeled and non-labeled DMV neurons. Conclusion The quality and quantity of total RNA from unfixed brain tissues were better than fixed tissues applied in LMPC and the CTB tracer which may differentiate neurons had no significant effect on physiology of the neurons applied in LMPC. The results showed that the LMPC technique is suitable for the qualitative and quantitative study on individual neurons at mRNA level.展开更多
The basis of life-long spermatogenesis is spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) located at the basal membrane of the seminiferous tubules in the testis. After several rounds of proliferation and spermatogonial differentiat...The basis of life-long spermatogenesis is spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) located at the basal membrane of the seminiferous tubules in the testis. After several rounds of proliferation and spermatogonial differentiation, the male germ cells will eventually undergo meiosis to form haploid spermatids. Disturbance of the molecular regulation of spermatogenesis can lead to spermatogenic arrest, in humans often during meiosis,1,2 and subsequent azoospermia. Unfortunately, no treatment option enabling conception of a genetically own child is currently available for men suffering from spermatogenic arrest before spermatids are formed.展开更多
Chinese bayberry Myrica rubra is a very popular fruit in southeastern China.In spite of its wide consumption,no allergies to this fruit have been reported previously.Here we report on a 40-year-old woman suffering fro...Chinese bayberry Myrica rubra is a very popular fruit in southeastern China.In spite of its wide consumption,no allergies to this fruit have been reported previously.Here we report on a 40-year-old woman suffering from anaphylaxis to Chinese bayberry fruit.Prick-prick skin tests revealed strong reactions to fresh Chinese bayberry fruits as well as to peach,and weaker reactions to some other fruits including apple,melon,and banana.ImmunoCAP analysis revealed identical titers of specific IgE(4.3 kU A /L) to peach extract and its lipid transfer protein(LTP,rPru p 3),which was confirmed by detection of a 9 kD band following immunoblotting.Immunoblot analysis with Chinese bayberry extract gave bands of 22,45,and 90 kD,but no 9 kD band was recognized.There was also no evidence of LTP recognition for loquat(36 kD) or melon(24 kD).This first report of a severe allergic reaction to Chinese bayberry fruit in a patient with LTP-mediated peach allergy indicates that other as yet unidentified non-pollen related fruit allergens are involved in this new severe fruit allergy.展开更多
Background: Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology, because they share many features with cerebral vessels. A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly pre...Background: Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology, because they share many features with cerebral vessels. A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly predicts the risk of stroke. It is unclear if this is due to arteriolar narrowing or venular dilation. Objective: To investigate whether smaller arteriolar or larger venular diameters are related to the risk of stroke and cerebral infarction. Methods: This study was based on the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study and included 5,540 participants of 55 years or over, who had gradable fundus transparencies and were free of stroke at baseline (1990 to 1993). For each participant, retinal arteriolar and venular diameters were measured on digitized images of one eye. Follow-up for first-ever stroke was complete until January 1, 2002. Results: After a mean follow-up of 8.5 years, 411 participants had a stroke, of whom 259 had cerebral infarction. Larger venular diameters were associated with an increased risk of stroke (hazard ratio [HR] adjusted for age and sex per SD increase: 1.12 [95%CI: 1.02 to 1.24]) and cerebral infarction (HR: 1.15 [95%CI: 1.02 to 1.29]). Smaller arteriolar diameters were neither related to the risk of stroke (HR per SD decrease: 1.02 [95%CI: 0.93 to 1.13]) nor to the risk of cerebral infarction (HR: 1.02 [95%CI: 0.90 to 1.15]). After additional adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors, the results did not change. Conclusions: Larger retinal venular diameters are associated with an increased risk of stroke and cerebral infarction. The role of venules in cerebrovascular disease warrants further exploration.展开更多
Background:Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology,because they share many features with cerebral vessels.A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly predic...Background:Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology,because they share many features with cerebral vessels.A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly predicts the risk of stroke.It is unclear if this is due to arteriolar narrowing or venular dilation.Objective:To investigate whether smaller arteriolar or larger venular diameters are related to the risk of stroke and cerebral infarction.Methods:This study was based on the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study and included 5,540 participants of 55 years or over,who had gradable fundus transparencies and were free of stroke at baseline(1990 to 1993).For each participant,retinal arteriolar and venular diameters were measured on digitized images of one eye.Follow-up for first-ever stroke was complete until January 1,2002.Results:After a mean follow-up of 8.5 years,411 participants had a stroke,of whom 259 had cerebral infarction.Larger venular diameters were associated with an increased risk of stroke(hazard ratio HR adjusted for age and sex per SD increase:1.12 95% CI:1.02 to 1.24)and cerebral infarction(HR:1.15 95% CI:1.02 to 1.29).Smaller arteriolar diameters were neither related to the risk of stroke(HR per SD decrease:1.02 95% CI:0.93 to 1.13)nor to the risk of cerebral infarction(HR:1.02 95% CI:0.90 to 1.15).After additional adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors,the results did not change.Conclusions:Larger retinal venular diameters are associated with an increased risk of stroke and cerebral infarction.The role of venules in cerebrovascular disease warrants further exploration.展开更多
Introduction:Interferon γ is a potent proinflammatory cytokine implicated in the inflammation of Crohn’s disease(CD) .We evaluated the safety and efficacy of fontolizumab,a humanised anti-interferon γ antibody,in p...Introduction:Interferon γ is a potent proinflammatory cytokine implicated in the inflammation of Crohn’s disease(CD) .We evaluated the safety and efficacy of fontolizumab,a humanised anti-interferon γ antibody,in patients with moderate to severe CD.Methods:A total of 133 patients with Crohn’s disease activity index(CDAI) scores between 250 and 450,inclusive,were randomised to receive placebo or fontolizumab 4 or 10 mg/kg.Forty two patients received one dose and 91 patients received two doses on days 0 and 28.Investigators and patients were unaware of assignment.Study end points were safety,clinical response(decrease in CDAI of 100 points or more) ,and remission(CDAI ≤ 150) .Results:There was no statistically significant difference in the primary end point of the study(clinical response) between the fontolizumab and placebo groups after a single dose at day 28.However,patients receiving two doses of fontolizumab demonstrated doubling in response rate at day 56 compared with placebo:32%(9/28) versus 69%(22/32,p = 0.02) and 67%(21/31,p = 0.03) for the placebo,and 4 and 10mg/kg fontolizumab groups,respectively.Stratification according to elevated baseline C reactive protein levels resulted in a decreased placebo response and pronounced differences in clinical benefit.Two grade 3 adverse events were reported and were considered to be related to CD.One death(during sleep) and one serious adverse event(an elective hospitalisation) occurred,both considered unrelated.Conc-lusion:Treating active CD with fontolizumab was well tolerated and resulted in increased rates of clinical response and remission compared with placebo.展开更多
Background and study aims: Endoscopic insertion of plastic biliary endoprostheses is a well-established treatment for obstructive jaundice. The major limitation of this technique is late stent occlusion. In order to c...Background and study aims: Endoscopic insertion of plastic biliary endoprostheses is a well-established treatment for obstructive jaundice. The major limitation of this technique is late stent occlusion. In order to compare events involved in biliary stent clogging and identify the distribution of bac-teria in unblocked stents, confocal laser scanning (CLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were carried out on two different stent materials - polyethylene (PE) and hydrophilic polymer-coated polyurethane (HCPC). Patien-ts and methods: Ten consecutive patients with postoperative benign biliary strictures were included in the study. Two 10-Fr stents 9 cm in length, one made of PE and the other of HCPC, were inserted. The stents were electively exchanged after 3 months and examined using CLS and SEM. Results: No differences were seen between the two types of stent. The inner stent surface was covered with a uniform amorphous layer. On top of this layer, a biofilm of living and dead bacteria was found, which in most cases was unstructured. The lumen was filled with free-floating colonies of bacteria and crystals, surrounded by mobile laminar structures of mucus. An open network of large dietary fibers was seen in all of the stents. Conclusions: The same clogging events occurred in both PE and HCPC stents. The most remarkable observation was the identification of networks of large dietary fibers, resulting from duodenal reflux, acting as a filter. The build-up of this intraluminal framework of dietary fibers appears to be a major factor contributing to the multifactorial process of stent clogging.展开更多
Background and Study Aims: The management of patients with esophageal cancer with malignant celiac lymph nodes (CLNs) is controversial. In this study we evaluated the management and survival of patients with positive ...Background and Study Aims: The management of patients with esophageal cancer with malignant celiac lymph nodes (CLNs) is controversial. In this study we evaluated the management and survival of patients with positive CLN findings on endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and compared the outcome in surgically treated patients with that of nonsurgically treated patients. Patients and Methods: The EUS database of the Academic Medical Center was retrospectively searched for patients with esophageal carcinoma and EUS-positive CLN. Follow-up comprised the review of medical charts and contact with general practitioners. Results: From 1993 through 2000, 78 patients with esophageal carcinoma and suspicious CLN were eligi ble for inclusion in this study. The median survival of patients with CLN size < 2 cm was 13.5 months vs. 7.0 months for patients with CLN size >2 cm (P = 0.01) . In a multivariate model, CLN size was the only predictive factor for poor pati ent survival. Of the 78 study patients, 13 underwent a surgical resection and 65 received nonsurgical treatment. The surgical group was significantly younger an dall patents in this group had CLN size < 2 cm. The median survival for the surgical group was 13.7 months vs. 13.5 months for the nonsurgical group with CLN s ize < 2 cm (P = 0.63). Conclusions: In this retrospective study, CLN size was a significant predictor for poor survival. The surgically treated patients had a mediumterm survival similar to that of nonsurgically treated patients with a CLN size < 2 cm. These findings underline the prognostic value of CLN size in patien ts with esophageal carcinoma.展开更多
Dracunculiasis(Guinea worm disease) is a preventable waterborne parasitic disease that affects the poorest people living in remote rural areas in sub-Saharan African countries,who do not have access to safe drinking w...Dracunculiasis(Guinea worm disease) is a preventable waterborne parasitic disease that affects the poorest people living in remote rural areas in sub-Saharan African countries,who do not have access to safe drinking water.The Guinea Worm Eradication Program,a 25-year old campaign to rid the world of Guinea Worm disease has now reached its final stage accelerating to zero cases in all endemic countries.During the 19th and 20th centuries,dracunculiasis was common in much of Southern Asia and the African continent.The overall number of cases has been reduced tremendously by≥99%,from the 3.32 million cases estimated to have occurred in 1986 in Africa to only I 797 cases reported in 2010 reported in only five countries(Sudan,Mali,Ethiopia,Chad and Ghana) and Asia free of the disease.This achievement is unique in its kind - the only previously eradicated disease is smallpox,a viral infection for which vaccination was possible - and it has been achieved through primary community-based prevention and health education programs.Most efforts need to be taken in two countries,South Sudan(comprising 94%or I 698 out of 1 797 of the cases reported world-wide in 2010) and Mali because of frequent movements of nomads in a vast area inside and outside Mali’s borders.All factors favourable to dracunculiasis eradication are available including adequate financial resources,community and political support and high levels of advocacy.Thus there is no reason that this disabling parasitic disease cannot be eradicated soon before surprises arise such as new civil conflicts in currently endemic countries.展开更多
Comparison of the two recently identified genome sequences has revealed that, of the～1500 genes, some 60 % can be assigned a predicted function, while another 20 % have homologues of unknown identity. The remainder h...Comparison of the two recently identified genome sequences has revealed that, of the～1500 genes, some 60 % can be assigned a predicted function, while another 20 % have homologues of unknown identity. The remainder has no currently identified homologues. Of singular importance is the 'pathogenicity island' of which the cagA-gene is a marker. The vacA-gene is outside the pathogenicity island and is a true cytotoxin. The cag pathogenicity island encodes proteins associated with cell signaling and secretion systems for delivery of virulence factors to target cells. Certaingenotypes, particularly the cag-A positive,展开更多
The global prospects for gastroenterology are excellent. The subspecialty involves the largest area of body surface, the largest endocrine organ, the largest neuronal organ (with 200 million neurones), and the largest...The global prospects for gastroenterology are excellent. The subspecialty involves the largest area of body surface, the largest endocrine organ, the largest neuronal organ (with 200 million neurones), and the largest immune organ (with 50 % of all lymphocytes); it includes by far the largest number of diseases, many still unexplored, and the largest oncological patient load. Gastroenterology/hepatology lies at the cross-roads between internal medical and surgical specialties.展开更多
基金the financial support received from the Open Project of National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy(No.2024-KFKT-009)the Key R&D Program of Zhejiang Provincial Administration for Market Regulation(No.ZD2024001).
文摘Food allergies are abnormal immune responses triggered by specific foods,affecting the quality of life of millions of people worldwide.In recent years,the prevalence of food allergies has increased significantly,especially in Westernized countries,prompting the scientific community to explore the complex mechanisms behind them.Dietary patterns and specific dietary components are important factors related to the occurrence,development,and prevention of food allergies.Studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet,which is high in fiber,rich in antioxidants,and healthy fats,shows potential protective effects by promoting the balance of intestinal flora,maintaining the intestinal barrier,and regulating immunity.In contrast,a high-fat,high-sugar,low-fiber Western diet is associated with an increased risk of allergies.Key dietary components such as omega-3 fatty acids,dietary fiber,vitamins A,D,and E,and bioactive substances such as quercetin and curcumin can regulate immune tolerance through multiple pathways,including epigenetic regulation and affecting mitochondrial function.However,advanced glycation end products(AGEs),emulsifiers,artificial sweeteners produced by food processing,and pesticide residues(such as glyphosate)may damage the intestinal barrier,disrupt the flora,and increase the risk of allergies.This review explored the risk and protective factors for food allergies from a dietary perspective,thus benefiting the progress of intervention and therapy of food allergy.
文摘AIM： To analyze the time interval （‘delay＇） between the first occurrence of clinical parameters associated with anastomotic leakage alter colorectal resection and subsequent relaparotomy. METHODS： In 36 out of 289 consecutive patients with colorectal anastomosis, leakage was confirmed at relaparotomy. The medical records of these patients were retrospectively analysed and type and time of appearance of clinical parameters suggestive of anastomotic leakage were recorded. These parameters included heart rate, body temperature, local or generalized peritoneal reaction, leucocytosis, ileus and delayed gastric emptying. Factors influencing delay of relaparotomy and consequences of delayed recognition and treatment were determined. RESULTS： First documentation of at least one of the predefined parameters for anastomotic leakage was alter a median interval of 4 ± 1.7 d alter the operation. The median number of days between first parameter（s） associated with leakage and relaparotomy was 3.5 ± 5.7 d. The time interval between the first signs of leakage and relaparotomy was significantly longer when a weekend was included （4.2 d vs 2.4 d, P = 0.021） or radiological evaluation proved to be false-negative （8.1 d vs 3.5 d, P = 0.007）. No significant association between delay and number of additional relaparotomies, hospital stay or mortality could be demonstrated.CONCLUSION： An intervening weekend and negative diagnostic imaging reports may contribute to a delay in diagnosis and relaparotomy for anastomotic leakage. That delay was more than two days in two-thirds of the patients.
文摘Functional constipation(FC) is a significant health problem in children and contrary to common belief, has serious ramifications on the lives of children and their families. It is defined by the Rome criteria which encourage the use of multiple clinical features for diagnosis. FC in children has a high prevalence(0.7%-29%) worldwide, both in developed and developing countries. Biopsychosocial risk factors such as psychological stress, poor dietary habits, obesity and child maltreatment are commonly identified predisposing factors for FC. FC poses a significant healthcare burden on the already overstretched health budgets of many countries in terms of out-patient care, in-patient care, expenditure for investigations and prescriptions. Complications are common and range from minor psychological disturbances, to lower health-related quality of life. FC in children also has a significant impact on families. Many paediatric clinical trials have poor methodological quality, and drugs proved to be useful in adults, are not effective in relieving symptoms in children. A significant proportion of inadequately treated children have similar symptoms as adults. These factors show that constipation is an increasing public health problem across the world with a significant medical, social and economic impact. This article highlights the potential public health impact of FC and the possibility of overcoming this problem by concentrating on modifiable risk factors rather than expending resources on high cost investigations and therapeutic modalities.
基金Supported by The Dutch Cancer Society(grant.UvA2002-2604)
文摘AIM： To culture human pancreatic tissue obtained from small resection specimens as a pre-clinical model for examining virus-host interactions. METHODS： Human pancreatic tissue samples （malignant and normal） were obtained from surgical specimens and processed immediately to tissue slices. Tissue slices were cultured ex vivo for 1-6 d in an incubator using 95% 02. Slices were subsequently analyzed for viability and morphology. In addition the slices were incubated with different viral vectors expressing the reporter genes GFP or DsRed. Expression of these reporter genes was measured at 72 h after infection.RESULTS： With the Krumdieck tissue slicer, uniform slices could be generated from pancreatic tissue but only upon embedding the tissue in 3% low melting agarose. Immunohistological examination showed the presence of all pancreatic cell types. Pancreatic normal and cancer tissue slices could be cultured for up to 6 d, while retaining viability and a moderate to good morphology. Reporter gene expression indicated that the slices could be infected and transduced efficiently by adenoviral vectors and by adeno associated viral vectors, whereas transduction with lentiviral vectors was limited. For the adenoviral vector, the transduction seemed limited to the peripheral layers of the explants. CONCLUSION： The presented system allows reproducible processing of minimal amounts of pancreatic tissue into slices uniform in size, suitable for pre-clinical evaluation of gene therapy vectors.
文摘Objective To compare the quality and quantity of total RNA from different source-original neurons applied in LMPC technique. Methods （ 1 ） Aglient 2100 bioanalyzer and RT-PCR were used to check the concentration and fragmentation of total RNA from unfixed, temporal fixed and fixed 12 h hypothalamus sections; （2）Different neurons of PVN and SON were collected by LMPC, CRH, TRH, AVP, OT mRNA level were measured by RT-PCR; （3）Labeled neurons by injecting CTB into stomach and non-labeled neurons in DMV collected by LMPC were checked for house keeping genes by RT-PCR. Results （ 1 ） Unfixed section had higher concentration and better quality of total RNA compared with fixed sections applied in LMPC ; relative short amplicons such as GAPDH, NSE, MCH and MCAR were successfully obtained from fixed and unfixed and long amplicon of GR can only be obtained from unfixed material; （2） In magnocellular PVN and SON the expressions of AVP and OT were more special than those in the parvocellular PVN. Oppositely, the expressions of CRH, TRH in the parvocellular were more special than the other two ; （3） The expressions of house keeping genes had no significant difference between labeled and non-labeled DMV neurons. Conclusion The quality and quantity of total RNA from unfixed brain tissues were better than fixed tissues applied in LMPC and the CTB tracer which may differentiate neurons had no significant effect on physiology of the neurons applied in LMPC. The results showed that the LMPC technique is suitable for the qualitative and quantitative study on individual neurons at mRNA level.
文摘The basis of life-long spermatogenesis is spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) located at the basal membrane of the seminiferous tubules in the testis. After several rounds of proliferation and spermatogonial differentiation, the male germ cells will eventually undergo meiosis to form haploid spermatids. Disturbance of the molecular regulation of spermatogenesis can lead to spermatogenic arrest, in humans often during meiosis,1,2 and subsequent azoospermia. Unfortunately, no treatment option enabling conception of a genetically own child is currently available for men suffering from spermatogenic arrest before spermatids are formed.
基金Project (Nos. 30971970 and 30600266) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘Chinese bayberry Myrica rubra is a very popular fruit in southeastern China.In spite of its wide consumption,no allergies to this fruit have been reported previously.Here we report on a 40-year-old woman suffering from anaphylaxis to Chinese bayberry fruit.Prick-prick skin tests revealed strong reactions to fresh Chinese bayberry fruits as well as to peach,and weaker reactions to some other fruits including apple,melon,and banana.ImmunoCAP analysis revealed identical titers of specific IgE(4.3 kU A /L) to peach extract and its lipid transfer protein(LTP,rPru p 3),which was confirmed by detection of a 9 kD band following immunoblotting.Immunoblot analysis with Chinese bayberry extract gave bands of 22,45,and 90 kD,but no 9 kD band was recognized.There was also no evidence of LTP recognition for loquat(36 kD) or melon(24 kD).This first report of a severe allergic reaction to Chinese bayberry fruit in a patient with LTP-mediated peach allergy indicates that other as yet unidentified non-pollen related fruit allergens are involved in this new severe fruit allergy.
文摘Background: Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology, because they share many features with cerebral vessels. A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly predicts the risk of stroke. It is unclear if this is due to arteriolar narrowing or venular dilation. Objective: To investigate whether smaller arteriolar or larger venular diameters are related to the risk of stroke and cerebral infarction. Methods: This study was based on the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study and included 5,540 participants of 55 years or over, who had gradable fundus transparencies and were free of stroke at baseline (1990 to 1993). For each participant, retinal arteriolar and venular diameters were measured on digitized images of one eye. Follow-up for first-ever stroke was complete until January 1, 2002. Results: After a mean follow-up of 8.5 years, 411 participants had a stroke, of whom 259 had cerebral infarction. Larger venular diameters were associated with an increased risk of stroke (hazard ratio [HR] adjusted for age and sex per SD increase: 1.12 [95%CI: 1.02 to 1.24]) and cerebral infarction (HR: 1.15 [95%CI: 1.02 to 1.29]). Smaller arteriolar diameters were neither related to the risk of stroke (HR per SD decrease: 1.02 [95%CI: 0.93 to 1.13]) nor to the risk of cerebral infarction (HR: 1.02 [95%CI: 0.90 to 1.15]). After additional adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors, the results did not change. Conclusions: Larger retinal venular diameters are associated with an increased risk of stroke and cerebral infarction. The role of venules in cerebrovascular disease warrants further exploration.
文摘Background:Retinal vessels may provide information on cerebral vascular pathology,because they share many features with cerebral vessels.A smaller ratio of the retinal arteriolar-to-venular diameters reportedly predicts the risk of stroke.It is unclear if this is due to arteriolar narrowing or venular dilation.Objective:To investigate whether smaller arteriolar or larger venular diameters are related to the risk of stroke and cerebral infarction.Methods:This study was based on the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study and included 5,540 participants of 55 years or over,who had gradable fundus transparencies and were free of stroke at baseline(1990 to 1993).For each participant,retinal arteriolar and venular diameters were measured on digitized images of one eye.Follow-up for first-ever stroke was complete until January 1,2002.Results:After a mean follow-up of 8.5 years,411 participants had a stroke,of whom 259 had cerebral infarction.Larger venular diameters were associated with an increased risk of stroke(hazard ratio HR adjusted for age and sex per SD increase:1.12 95% CI:1.02 to 1.24)and cerebral infarction(HR:1.15 95% CI:1.02 to 1.29).Smaller arteriolar diameters were neither related to the risk of stroke(HR per SD decrease:1.02 95% CI:0.93 to 1.13)nor to the risk of cerebral infarction(HR:1.02 95% CI:0.90 to 1.15).After additional adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors,the results did not change.Conclusions:Larger retinal venular diameters are associated with an increased risk of stroke and cerebral infarction.The role of venules in cerebrovascular disease warrants further exploration.
文摘Introduction:Interferon γ is a potent proinflammatory cytokine implicated in the inflammation of Crohn’s disease(CD) .We evaluated the safety and efficacy of fontolizumab,a humanised anti-interferon γ antibody,in patients with moderate to severe CD.Methods:A total of 133 patients with Crohn’s disease activity index(CDAI) scores between 250 and 450,inclusive,were randomised to receive placebo or fontolizumab 4 or 10 mg/kg.Forty two patients received one dose and 91 patients received two doses on days 0 and 28.Investigators and patients were unaware of assignment.Study end points were safety,clinical response(decrease in CDAI of 100 points or more) ,and remission(CDAI ≤ 150) .Results:There was no statistically significant difference in the primary end point of the study(clinical response) between the fontolizumab and placebo groups after a single dose at day 28.However,patients receiving two doses of fontolizumab demonstrated doubling in response rate at day 56 compared with placebo:32%(9/28) versus 69%(22/32,p = 0.02) and 67%(21/31,p = 0.03) for the placebo,and 4 and 10mg/kg fontolizumab groups,respectively.Stratification according to elevated baseline C reactive protein levels resulted in a decreased placebo response and pronounced differences in clinical benefit.Two grade 3 adverse events were reported and were considered to be related to CD.One death(during sleep) and one serious adverse event(an elective hospitalisation) occurred,both considered unrelated.Conc-lusion:Treating active CD with fontolizumab was well tolerated and resulted in increased rates of clinical response and remission compared with placebo.
文摘Background and study aims: Endoscopic insertion of plastic biliary endoprostheses is a well-established treatment for obstructive jaundice. The major limitation of this technique is late stent occlusion. In order to compare events involved in biliary stent clogging and identify the distribution of bac-teria in unblocked stents, confocal laser scanning (CLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were carried out on two different stent materials - polyethylene (PE) and hydrophilic polymer-coated polyurethane (HCPC). Patien-ts and methods: Ten consecutive patients with postoperative benign biliary strictures were included in the study. Two 10-Fr stents 9 cm in length, one made of PE and the other of HCPC, were inserted. The stents were electively exchanged after 3 months and examined using CLS and SEM. Results: No differences were seen between the two types of stent. The inner stent surface was covered with a uniform amorphous layer. On top of this layer, a biofilm of living and dead bacteria was found, which in most cases was unstructured. The lumen was filled with free-floating colonies of bacteria and crystals, surrounded by mobile laminar structures of mucus. An open network of large dietary fibers was seen in all of the stents. Conclusions: The same clogging events occurred in both PE and HCPC stents. The most remarkable observation was the identification of networks of large dietary fibers, resulting from duodenal reflux, acting as a filter. The build-up of this intraluminal framework of dietary fibers appears to be a major factor contributing to the multifactorial process of stent clogging.
文摘Background and Study Aims: The management of patients with esophageal cancer with malignant celiac lymph nodes (CLNs) is controversial. In this study we evaluated the management and survival of patients with positive CLN findings on endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and compared the outcome in surgically treated patients with that of nonsurgically treated patients. Patients and Methods: The EUS database of the Academic Medical Center was retrospectively searched for patients with esophageal carcinoma and EUS-positive CLN. Follow-up comprised the review of medical charts and contact with general practitioners. Results: From 1993 through 2000, 78 patients with esophageal carcinoma and suspicious CLN were eligi ble for inclusion in this study. The median survival of patients with CLN size < 2 cm was 13.5 months vs. 7.0 months for patients with CLN size >2 cm (P = 0.01) . In a multivariate model, CLN size was the only predictive factor for poor pati ent survival. Of the 78 study patients, 13 underwent a surgical resection and 65 received nonsurgical treatment. The surgical group was significantly younger an dall patents in this group had CLN size < 2 cm. The median survival for the surgical group was 13.7 months vs. 13.5 months for the nonsurgical group with CLN s ize < 2 cm (P = 0.63). Conclusions: In this retrospective study, CLN size was a significant predictor for poor survival. The surgically treated patients had a mediumterm survival similar to that of nonsurgically treated patients with a CLN size < 2 cm. These findings underline the prognostic value of CLN size in patien ts with esophageal carcinoma.
文摘Dracunculiasis(Guinea worm disease) is a preventable waterborne parasitic disease that affects the poorest people living in remote rural areas in sub-Saharan African countries,who do not have access to safe drinking water.The Guinea Worm Eradication Program,a 25-year old campaign to rid the world of Guinea Worm disease has now reached its final stage accelerating to zero cases in all endemic countries.During the 19th and 20th centuries,dracunculiasis was common in much of Southern Asia and the African continent.The overall number of cases has been reduced tremendously by≥99%,from the 3.32 million cases estimated to have occurred in 1986 in Africa to only I 797 cases reported in 2010 reported in only five countries(Sudan,Mali,Ethiopia,Chad and Ghana) and Asia free of the disease.This achievement is unique in its kind - the only previously eradicated disease is smallpox,a viral infection for which vaccination was possible - and it has been achieved through primary community-based prevention and health education programs.Most efforts need to be taken in two countries,South Sudan(comprising 94%or I 698 out of 1 797 of the cases reported world-wide in 2010) and Mali because of frequent movements of nomads in a vast area inside and outside Mali’s borders.All factors favourable to dracunculiasis eradication are available including adequate financial resources,community and political support and high levels of advocacy.Thus there is no reason that this disabling parasitic disease cannot be eradicated soon before surprises arise such as new civil conflicts in currently endemic countries.
文摘Comparison of the two recently identified genome sequences has revealed that, of the～1500 genes, some 60 % can be assigned a predicted function, while another 20 % have homologues of unknown identity. The remainder has no currently identified homologues. Of singular importance is the 'pathogenicity island' of which the cagA-gene is a marker. The vacA-gene is outside the pathogenicity island and is a true cytotoxin. The cag pathogenicity island encodes proteins associated with cell signaling and secretion systems for delivery of virulence factors to target cells. Certaingenotypes, particularly the cag-A positive,
文摘The global prospects for gastroenterology are excellent. The subspecialty involves the largest area of body surface, the largest endocrine organ, the largest neuronal organ (with 200 million neurones), and the largest immune organ (with 50 % of all lymphocytes); it includes by far the largest number of diseases, many still unexplored, and the largest oncological patient load. Gastroenterology/hepatology lies at the cross-roads between internal medical and surgical specialties.
