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High Cell Density Cultivation of
Paracoccus pantotrophus
for Polyhydroxybutyrate Production. CHEM-ING-TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.202255321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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A novel functional mast cell assay for the detection of allergies. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 149:1018-1030.e11. [PMID: 34418424 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical management of allergic diseases has been hampered by the lack of safe and convenient tests to reliably identify culprit allergens and to closely follow changes in disease activity over time. Because allergy diagnosis is a complex and laborious multistep procedure, there is an urgent need for simpler but still functionally accurate ex vivo assays allowing objective diagnosis, substantiating treatment choices, and quantifying therapeutic responses. OBJECTIVE In this study, we sought to develop a novel functional cell-based assay that relies on passive sensitization of allergic effector cells with patient serum, circumventing current limitations in allergy diagnosis. METHODS We genetically engineered a conditional homeobox B8 (Hoxb8)-immortalized progenitor line from the bone marrow of mice that are transgenic for the human high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRIα). These cells can be reproducibly differentiated into mature Hoxb8 mast cells within 5 days of culture in virtually unlimited numbers. RESULTS We demonstrate that the established Hoxb8 mast cell assay can be used to accurately measure total IgE levels, identify culprit allergens, longitudinally monitor allergen-specific immunotherapy, and potentially determine the time point of tolerance induction upon allergen-specific immunotherapy in patients with allergy. To facilitate the analysis of large testing volumes, we demonstrate a proof-of-concept for a high-throughput screening application based on fluorescent cell barcoding using the engineered Hoxb8 mast cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that this novel mast cell assay could represent a valuable tool to support clinicians in the identification of IgE-mediated allergies and in the quantification of treatment efficacy as well as duration of therapeutic response.
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ARP-T1-associated Bazex-Dupré-Christol syndrome is an inherited basal cell cancer with ciliary defects characteristic of ciliopathies. Commun Biol 2021; 4:544. [PMID: 33972689 PMCID: PMC8110579 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Actin-Related Protein-Testis1 (ARP-T1)/ACTRT1 gene mutations cause the Bazex-Dupré-Christol Syndrome (BDCS) characterized by follicular atrophoderma, hypotrichosis, and basal cell cancer. Here, we report an ARP-T1 interactome (PXD016557) that includes proteins involved in ciliogenesis, endosomal recycling, and septin ring formation. In agreement, ARP-T1 localizes to the midbody during cytokinesis and the basal body of primary cilia in interphase. Tissue samples from ARP-T1-associated BDCS patients have reduced ciliary length. The severity of the shortened cilia significantly correlates with the ARP-T1 levels, which was further validated by ACTRT1 knockdown in culture cells. Thus, we propose that ARP-T1 participates in the regulation of cilia length and that ARP-T1-associated BDCS is a case of skin cancer with ciliopathy characteristics. Park et al. characterise the interactome, localisation and function of Actin-Related Protein-Testis1 protein (ARP-T1), encoded by the ACTRT1 gene, associated with inherited basal cell cancer. They find that ARP-T1 is localised to the primary cilia basal body in epidermal cells, interacts with the cilia machinery, and is needed for proper ciliogenesis.
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Loss of BOK Has a Minor Impact on Acetaminophen Overdose-Induced Liver Damage in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063281. [PMID: 33807047 PMCID: PMC8004760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most commonly used analgesic and anti-pyretic drugs, and APAP intoxication is one of the main reasons for liver transplantation following liver failure in the Western world. While APAP poisoning ultimately leads to liver necrosis, various programmed cell death modalities have been implicated, including ER stress-triggered apoptosis. The BCL-2 family member BOK (BCL-2-related ovarian killer) has been described to modulate the unfolded protein response and to promote chemical-induced liver injury. We therefore investigated the impact of the loss of BOK following APAP overdosing in mice. Surprisingly, we observed sex-dependent differences in the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in both wildtype (WT) and Bok-/- mice, with increased activation of JNK in females compared with males. Loss of BOK led to a decrease in JNK activation and a reduced percentage of centrilobular necrosis in both sexes after APAP treatment; however, this protection was more pronounced in Bok-/- females. Nevertheless, serum ALT and AST levels of Bok-/- and WT mice were comparable, indicating that there was no major difference in the overall outcome of liver injury. We conclude that after APAP overdosing, loss of BOK affects initiating signaling steps linked to ER stress, but has a more minor impact on the outcome of liver necrosis. Furthermore, we observed sex-dependent differences that might be worthwhile to investigate.
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Insights in the molecular mechanisms of an azole stress adapted laboratory-generated Aspergillus fumigatus strain. Med Mycol 2021; 59:763-772. [PMID: 33550403 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the main cause of invasive aspergillosis, for which azole drugs are the first-line therapy. Emergence of pan-azole resistance among A. fumigatus is concerning and has been mainly attributed to mutations in the target gene (cyp51A). However, azole resistance may also result from other mutations (hmg1, hapE) or other adaptive mechanisms. We performed microevolution experiment exposing an A. fumigatus azole-susceptible strain (Ku80) to sub-minimal inhibitory concentration of voriconazole to analyze emergence of azole resistance. We obtained a strain with pan-azole resistance (Ku80R), which was partially reversible after drug relief, and without mutations in cyp51A, hmg1, and hapE. Transcriptomic analyses revealed overexpression of the transcription factor asg1, several ATP-binding cassette (ABC) and major facilitator superfamily transporters and genes of the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway in Ku80R. Sterol analysis showed a significant decrease of the ergosterol mass under voriconazole exposure in Ku80, but not in Ku80R. However, the proportion of the sterol compounds was similar between both strains. To further assess the role of transporters, we used the ABC transporter inhibitor milbemycine oxime (MLB). MLB inhibited transporter activity in both Ku80 and Ku80R and demonstrated some potentiating effect on azole activity. Criteria for synergism were reached for MLB and posaconazole against Ku80. Finally, deletion of asg1 revealed some role of this transcription factor in controlling drug transporter expression, but had no impact on azole susceptibility.This work provides further insight in mechanisms of azole stress adaptation and suggests that drug transporters inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic target. LAY SUMMARY A pan-azole-resistant strain was generated in vitro, in which drug transporter overexpression was a major trait. Analyses suggested a role of the transporter inhibitor milbemycin oxime in inhibiting drug transporters and potentiating azole activity.
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Mid-infrared interference coatings with excess optical loss below 10 ppm. OPTICA 2021; 8:10.1364/OPTICA.405938. [PMID: 36578655 PMCID: PMC9793494 DOI: 10.1364/optica.405938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We present high-reflectivity substrate-transferred single-crystal GaAs/AlGaAs interference coatings at a center wavelength of 4.54 μm with record-low excess optical loss below 10 parts per million. These high-performance mirrors are realized via a novel microfabrication process that differs significantly from the production of amorphous multilayers generated via physical vapor deposition processes. This new process enables reduced scatter loss due to the low surface and interfacial roughness, while low background doping in epitaxial growth ensures strongly reduced absorption. We report on a suite of optical measurements, including cavity ring-down, transmittance spectroscopy, and direct absorption tests to reveal the optical losses for a set of prototype mirrors. In the course of these measurements, we observe a unique polarization-orientation-dependent loss mechanism which we attribute to elastic anisotropy of these strained epitaxial multilayers. A future increase in layer count and a corresponding reduction of transmittance will enable optical resonators with a finesse in excess of 100 000 in the mid-infrared spectral region, allowing for advances in high resolution spectroscopy, narrow-linewidth laser stabilization, and ultrasensitive measurements of various light-matter interactions.
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Emerging echinocandin-resistant Candida albicans and glabrata in Switzerland. Infection 2020; 48:761-766. [PMID: 32661647 PMCID: PMC7518979 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-020-01475-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Echinocandins represent the first-line therapy of candidemia. Echinocandin resistance among Candida spp. is mainly due to acquired FKS mutations. In this study, we report the emergence of FKS-mutant Candida albicans/glabrata in Switzerland and provide the microbiological and clinical characteristics of 9 candidemic episodes. All patients were previously exposed to echinocandins (median 26 days; range 15–77). Five patients received initial echinocandin therapy with persistent candidemia in 4 of them. Overall mortality was 33%.
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Quantum-chemistry-aided identification, synthesis and experimental validation of model systems for conformationally controlled reaction studies: separation of the conformers of 2,3-dibromobuta-1,3-diene in the gas phase. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:13431-13439. [PMID: 32515452 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp01396j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The Diels-Alder cycloaddition, in which a diene reacts with a dienophile to form a cyclic compound, counts among the most important tools in organic synthesis. Achieving a precise understanding of its mechanistic details on the quantum level requires new experimental and theoretical methods. Here, we present an experimental approach that separates different diene conformers in a molecular beam as a prerequisite for the investigation of their individual cycloaddition reaction kinetics and dynamics under single-collision conditions in the gas phase. A low- and high-level quantum-chemistry-based screening of more than one hundred dienes identified 2,3-dibromobutadiene (DBB) as an optimal candidate for efficient separation of its gauche and s-trans conformers by electrostatic deflection. A preparation method for DBB was developed which enabled the generation of dense molecular beams of this compound. The theoretical predictions of the molecular properties of DBB were validated by the successful separation of the conformers in the molecular beam. A marked difference in photofragment ion yields of the two conformers upon femtosecond-laser pulse ionization was observed, pointing at a pronounced conformer-specific fragmentation dynamics of ionized DBB. Our work sets the stage for a rigorous examination of mechanistic models of cycloaddition reactions under controlled conditions in the gas phase.
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Palmoplantar Keratoderma with Leukokeratosis Anogenitalis Caused by KDSR Mutations. J Invest Dermatol 2020; 140:1662-1665.e1. [PMID: 31987885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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A conserved GH17 glycosyl hydrolase from plant pathogenic Dothideomycetes releases a DAMP causing cell death in tomato. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY 2019; 20:1710-1721. [PMID: 31603622 PMCID: PMC6859711 DOI: 10.1111/mpp.12872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
To facilitate infection, pathogens deploy a plethora of effectors to suppress basal host immunity induced by exogenous microbe-associated or endogenous damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In this study, we have characterized family 17 glycosyl hydrolases of the tomato pathogen Cladosporium fulvum (CfGH17) and studied their role in infection. Heterologous expression of CfGH17-1 to 5 by potato virus X in different tomato cultivars showed that CfGH17-1 and CfGH17-5 enzymes induce cell death in Cf-0, Cf-1 and Cf-5 but not in Cf-Ecp3 tomato cultivars or tobacco. Moreover, CfGH17-1 orthologues from other phytopathogens, including Dothistroma septosporum and Mycosphaerella fijiensis, also trigger cell death in tomato. CfGH17-1 and CfGH17-5 are predicted to be β-1,3-glucanases and their enzymatic activity is required for the induction of cell death. CfGH17-1 hydrolyses laminarin, a linear 1,3-β-glucan with 1,6-β linkages. CfGH17-1 expression is down-regulated during the biotrophic phase of infection and up-regulated during the necrotrophic phase. Deletion of CfGH17-1 in C. fulvum did not reduce virulence on tomato, while constitutive expression of CfGH17-1 decreased virulence, suggesting that abundant presence of CfGH17-1 during biotrophic growth may release a DAMP that activates plant defence responses. Under natural conditions CfGH17-1 is suggested to play a role during saprophytic growth when the fungus thrives on dead host tissue, which is in line with its high levels of expression at late stages of infection when host tissues have become necrotic. We suggest that CfGH17-1 releases a DAMP from the host cell wall that is recognized by a yet unknown host plant receptor.
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Near-infrared scanning cavity ringdown for optical loss characterization of supermirrors. OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 27:19141-19149. [PMID: 31503677 DOI: 10.1364/oe.27.019141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A cavity ringdown system for probing the spatial variation of optical loss across high-reflectivity mirrors is described. This system is employed to examine substrate-transferred crystalline supermirrors and to quantify the effect of manufacturing process imperfections. Excellent agreement is observed between the ringdown-generated spatial measurements and differential interference contrast microscopy images. A 2-mm diameter ringdown scan in the center of a crystalline supermirror reveals highly uniform coating properties with excess loss variations below 1 ppm.
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Negative Regulation of BOK Expression by Recruitment of TRIM28 to Regulatory Elements in Its 3' Untranslated Region. iScience 2018; 9:461-474. [PMID: 30471638 PMCID: PMC6260365 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BCL-2-related ovarian killer (BOK) is a pro-apoptotic BAX-like member of the BCL-2 family with suggested tumor suppressor activity. The molecular mechanisms regulating BOK expression are poorly understood and fail to explain a frequent lack of concordance between protein and transcript levels. Here, we describe a potent post-transcriptional mechanism that negatively regulates BOK expression mediated by conserved (AU/U)-rich elements within its 3’ UTR. Using proteomics approaches we identified TRIM28 as a key component associating with U-rich elements in the human BOK 3’ UTR, resulting in a dramatic reduction of BOK expression. TRIM28 is overexpressed in several cancers, correlating with poor patient outcome, whereas the BOK locus is frequently deleted or its expression downregulated in human cancers. Data mining indicated that, for certain cancers, high TRIM28 and low BOK expression are significantly correlated in the stratum of patients with the worst survival, suggesting that this mechanism might be of potential therapeutic value. BOK mRNA is destabilized by AU-(mouse) or U-rich (human) elements within its 3’ UTR Mutation of these ARE/URE sequences results in increased BOK RNA and protein levels TRIM28 represses BOK expression by associating with the UREs of human BOK mRNA Inverse correlation of TRIM28 and BOK levels predicts survival in selected cancers
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Review of Three-Dimensional Human-Computer Interaction with Focus on the Leap Motion Controller. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 18:E2194. [PMID: 29986517 PMCID: PMC6068627 DOI: 10.3390/s18072194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Modern hardware and software development has led to an evolution of user interfaces from command-line to natural user interfaces for virtual immersive environments. Gestures imitating real-world interaction tasks increasingly replace classical two-dimensional interfaces based on Windows/Icons/Menus/Pointers (WIMP) or touch metaphors. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to survey the state-of-the-art Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) techniques with a focus on the special field of three-dimensional interaction. This includes an overview of currently available interaction devices, their applications of usage and underlying methods for gesture design and recognition. Focus is on interfaces based on the Leap Motion Controller (LMC) and corresponding methods of gesture design and recognition. Further, a review of evaluation methods for the proposed natural user interfaces is given.
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Accuracy of Sensititre YeastOne echinocandins epidemiological cut-off values for identification of FKS mutant Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: a ten year national survey of the Fungal Infection Network of Switzerland (FUNGINOS). Clin Microbiol Infect 2018; 24:1214.e1-1214.e4. [PMID: 29909005 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Echinocandins represent the first-line treatment of candidaemia. Acquired echinocandin resistance is mainly observed among Candida albicans and Candida glabrata and is associated with FKS hotspot mutations. The commercial Sensititre YeastOne™ (SYO) kit is widely used for antifungal susceptibility testing, but interpretive clinical breakpoints are not well defined. We determined echinocandins epidemiological cut-off values (ECV) for C. albicans/glabrata tested by SYO and assessed their ability to identify FKS mutants in a national survey of candidaemia. METHODS Bloodstream isolates of C. albicans and C. glabrata were collected in 25 Swiss hospitals from 2004 to 2013 and tested by SYO. FKS hotspot sequencing was performed for isolates with an MIC≥ECV for any echinocandin. RESULTS In all, 1277 C. albicans and 347 C. glabrata were included. ECV 97.5% of caspofungin, anidulafungin and micafungin were 0.12, 0.06 and 0.03 μg/mL for C. albicans, and 0.25, 0.12 and 0.03 μg/mL for C. glabrata, respectively. FKS hotspot sequencing was performed for 70 isolates. No mutation was found in the 52 'limit wild-type' isolates (MIC=ECV for at least one echinocandin). Among the 18 'non-wild-type' isolates (MIC>ECV for at least one echinocandin), FKS mutations were recovered in the only two isolates with MIC>ECV for all three echinocandins, but not in those exhibiting a 'non-wild-type' phenotype for only one or two echinocandins. CONCLUSION This 10-year nationwide survey showed that the rate of echinocandin resistance among C. albicans and C. glabrata remains low in Switzerland despite increased echinocandin use. SYO-ECV could discriminate FKS mutants from wild-type isolates tested by SYO in this population.
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205 ARP-T1 is a protein associated with a novel ciliopathy in inherited basal cell cancer of Bazex-Dupré-Christol Syndrome. J Invest Dermatol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.03.210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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BOK displays cell death-independent tumor suppressor activity in non-small-cell lung carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2017; 141:2050-2061. [PMID: 28744854 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.30906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
As the genomic region containing the Bcl-2-related ovarian killer (BOK) locus is frequently deleted in certain human cancers, BOK is hypothesized to have a tumor suppressor function. In the present study, we analyzed primary non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) tumors and matched lung tissues from 102 surgically treated patients. We show that BOK protein levels are significantly downregulated in NSCLC tumors as compared to lung tissues (p < 0.001). In particular, we found BOK downregulation in NSCLC tumors of grades two (p = 0.004, n = 35) and three (p = 0.031, n = 39) as well as in tumors with metastases to hilar (pN1) (p = 0.047, n = 31) and mediastinal/subcarinal lymph nodes (pN2) (p = 0.021, n = 18) as opposed to grade one tumors (p = 0.688, n = 7) and tumors without lymph node metastases (p = 0.112, n = 51). Importantly, in lymph node-positive patients, BOK expression greater than the median value was associated with longer survival (p = 0.002, Mantel test). Using in vitro approaches, we provide evidence that BOK overexpression is inefficient in inducing apoptosis but that it inhibits TGFβ-induced migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lung adenocarcinoma-derived A549 cells. We have identified epigenetic mechanisms, in particular BOK promoter methylation, as an important means to silence BOK expression in NSCLC cells. Taken together, our data point toward a novel mechanism by which BOK acts as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC by inhibiting EMT. Consequently, the restoration of BOK levels in low-BOK-expressing tumors might favor the overall survival of NSCLC patients.
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The membrane activity of BOK involves formation of large, stable toroidal pores and is promoted by cBID. FEBS J 2017; 284:711-724. [PMID: 28064468 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The BCL-2 family members are key regulators of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, which is defined by permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane by members of the BAX-like subfamily. BOK is classified as a BAX-like protein; however, its (patho-)physiological role remains largely unclear. We therefore assessed the membrane permeabilization potential of C-terminally truncated recombinant BOK, BOK∆C . We show that BOK∆C can permeabilize liposomes mimicking the composition of mitochondrial outer membrane, but not of endoplasmic reticulum, forming large and stable pores over time. Importantly, pore formation was enhanced by the presence of cBID and refractory to the addition of antiapoptotic BCL-XL . However, isolated mitochondria from Bax-/- Bak-/- cells were resistant to BOK-induced cytochrome c release, even in the presence of cBID. Taken together, we show that BOK∆C can permeabilize liposomes, and cooperate with cBID, but its role in directly mediating mitochondrial permeabilization is unclear and may underlie a yet to be determined negative regulation.
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Basel Chemistry Symposium 2014 In Memory of Prof. T. Reichstein. Chimia (Aarau) 2015; 69:63-64. [DOI: 10.2533/chimia.2015.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Increased epidermal expression and absence of mutations in CARD14 in a series of patients with sporadic pityriasis rubra pilaris. Br J Dermatol 2015; 170:1196-8. [PMID: 24359224 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.12799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Assessment of management for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Heart Lung Circ 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2015.06.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Abstract
Accurate chromosome segregation during mitosis is temporally and spatially coordinated by fidelity-monitoring checkpoint systems. Deficiencies in these checkpoint systems can lead to chromosome segregation errors and aneuploidy, and promote tumorigenesis. Here, we report that the TRAF-interacting protein (TRAIP), a ubiquitously expressed nucleolar E3 ubiquitin ligase important for cellular proliferation, is localized close to mitotic chromosomes. Its knockdown in HeLa cells by RNA interference (RNAi) decreased the time of early mitosis progression from nuclear envelope breakdown (NEB) to anaphase onset and increased the percentages of chromosome alignment defects in metaphase and lagging chromosomes in anaphase compared with those of control cells. The decrease in progression time was corrected by the expression of wild-type but not a ubiquitin-ligase-deficient form of TRAIP. TRAIP-depleted cells bypassed taxol-induced mitotic arrest and displayed significantly reduced kinetochore levels of MAD2 (also known as MAD2L1) but not of other spindle checkpoint proteins in the presence of nocodazole. These results imply that TRAIP regulates the spindle assembly checkpoint, MAD2 abundance at kinetochores and the accurate cellular distribution of chromosomes. The TRAIP ubiquitin ligase activity is functionally required for the spindle assembly checkpoint control.
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Intracellular localization of the BCL-2 family member BOK and functional implications. Cell Death Differ 2013; 20:785-99. [PMID: 23429263 PMCID: PMC3647236 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2013.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family member BOK is widely expressed and resembles the multi-BH domain proteins BAX and BAK based on its amino acid sequence. The genomic region encoding BOK was reported to be frequently deleted in human cancer and it has therefore been hypothesized that BOK functions as a tumor suppressor. However, little is known about the molecular functions of BOK. We show that enforced expression of BOK activates the intrinsic (mitochondrial) apoptotic pathway in BAX/BAK-proficient cells but fails to kill cells lacking both BAX and BAK or sensitize them to cytotoxic insults. Interestingly, major portions of endogenous BOK are localized to and partially inserted into the membranes of the Golgi apparatus as well as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and associated membranes. The C-terminal transmembrane domain of BOK thereby constitutes a 'tail-anchor' specific for targeting to the Golgi and ER. Overexpression of full-length BOK causes early fragmentation of ER and Golgi compartments. A role for BOK on the Golgi apparatus and the ER is supported by an abnormal response of Bok-deficient cells to the Golgi/ER stressor brefeldin A. Based on these results, we propose that major functions of BOK are exerted at the Golgi and ER membranes and that BOK induces apoptosis in a manner dependent on BAX and BAK.
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Analysis of the accuracy and robustness of the leap motion controller. SENSORS 2013; 13:6380-93. [PMID: 23673678 PMCID: PMC3690061 DOI: 10.3390/s130506380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Leap Motion Controller is a new device for hand gesture controlled user interfaces with declared sub-millimeter accuracy. However, up to this point its capabilities in real environments have not been analyzed. Therefore, this paper presents a first study of a Leap Motion Controller. The main focus of attention is on the evaluation of the accuracy and repeatability. For an appropriate evaluation, a novel experimental setup was developed making use of an industrial robot with a reference pen allowing a position accuracy of 0.2 mm. Thereby, a deviation between a desired 3D position and the average measured positions below 0.2 mm has been obtained for static setups and of 1.2 mm for dynamic setups. Using the conclusion of this analysis can improve the development of applications for the Leap Motion controller in the field of Human-Computer Interaction.
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In vitro differentiation of near-unlimited numbers of functional mouse basophils using conditional Hoxb8. Allergy 2013; 68:604-13. [PMID: 23590216 DOI: 10.1111/all.12140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basophils constitute a rare leukocyte population known for their effector functions in inflammation and allergy, as well as more recently described immunoregulatory roles. Besides their low frequency, functional analysis of basophils is hindered by a short life span, inefficient ex vivo differentiation protocols, and lack of suitable cell models. A method to produce large quantities of basophils in vitro would facilitate basophil research and constitute a sought-after tool for diagnostic and drug testing purposes. METHODS A method is described to massively expand bone marrow-derived basophils in vitro. Myeloid progenitors are conditionally immortalized using Hoxb8 in the presence of interleukin-3 (IL-3) and outgrowing cell lines selected for their potential to differentiate into basophils upon shutdown of Hoxb8 expression. RESULTS IL-3-dependent, conditional Hoxb8-immortalized progenitor cell lines can be expanded and maintained in culture for prolonged periods. Upon shutdown of Hoxb8 expression, near-unlimited numbers of mature functional basophils can be differentiated in vitro within six days. The cells are end-differentiated and short-lived and express basophil-specific surface markers and proteases. Upon IgE- as well as C5a-mediated activation, differentiated basophils release granule enzymes and histamine and secrete Th2-type cytokines (IL-4, IL-13) and leukotriene C4. IL-3-deprivation induces apoptosis correlating with upregulation of the BH3-only proteins BCL-2-interacting mediator of cell death (BIM) and p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) and downregulation of proviral integration site for Moloney murine leukemia virus 1 kinase (PIM-1). CONCLUSION A novel method is presented to generate quantitative amounts of mouse basophils in vitro, which moreover allows genetic manipulation of conditionally immortalized progenitors. This approach may represent a useful alternative method to isolating primary basophils.
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PAR2 promotes vaccine-induced protection against Helicobacter infection in mice. Gastroenterology 2011; 141:1273-82, 1282.e1. [PMID: 21703999 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2011.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2010] [Revised: 05/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Protective immunization limits Helicobacter infection of mice by undetermined mechanisms. Protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) signaling is believed to regulate immune and inflammatory responses. We investigated the role of PAR2 in vaccine-induced immunity against Helicobacter infection. METHODS Immune responses against Helicobacter infection were compared between vaccinated PAR2-/- and wild-type (WT) mice. Bacterial persistence, gastric pathology, and inflammatory and cellular responses were assessed using the rapid urease test (RUT), histologic analyses, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry, respectively. RESULTS Following vaccination, PAR2-/- mice did not have reductions in Helicobacter felis infection (RUT values were 0.01±0.01 for WT mice and 0.11±0.13 for PAR2-/- mice; P<.05). The vaccinated PAR2-/- mice had reduced inflammation-induced stomach tissue damage (tissue damage scores were 8.83±1.47 for WT mice and 4.86±1.35 for PAR2-/- mice; P<.002) and reduced T-helper (Th)17 responses, based on reduced urease-induced interleukin (IL)-17 secretion by stomach mononuclear cells (5182 ± 1265 pg/mL for WT mice and 350±436 pg/mL for PAR2-/- mice; P<.03) and reduced recruitment of CD4+ IL-17+ T cells into the gastric mucosa of PAR2-/- mice following bacterial challenge (3.7%±1.5% for WT mice and 2.6%±1.1% for PAR2-/- mice; P<.05). In vitro, H felis-stimulated dendritic cells (DCs) from WT mice induced greater secretion of IL-17 by ovalbumin-stimulated OT-II transgenic CD4+ T cells compared with DCs from PAR2-/- mice (4298±347 and 3230±779; P<.04), indicating that PAR2-/- DCs are impaired in priming of Th17 cells. Adoptive transfer of PAR2+/+ DCs into vaccinated PAR2-/- mice increased vaccine-induced protection (RUT values were 0.11±0.10 and 0.26±0.15 for injected and noninjected mice, respectively; P<.03). CONCLUSIONS PAR2 activates DCs to mediate vaccine-induced protection against Helicobacter infection in mice.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Low dose photodynamic therapy (LDPDT) may modify the mucosal immune response and may thus provide a therapy for Crohn's disease. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of this technique in a murine T cell-mediated colitis model. METHODS The safety of LDPDT was first tested in BALB/c mice. Naïve T cells were used to induce colitis in mice with severe combined immunodeficiency, which were followed up endoscopically, and a murine endoscopic index of colitis (MEIC) was developed. The efficacy of LDPDT (10 J/cm (2); delta-aminolevulinic acid, 15 mg/kg bodyweight) was then tested on mice with moderate colitis, while a disease control group received no treatment. The MEIC, weight, length, and histology of the colon, cytokine expression indices, number of mucosal CD4 (+) T cells, percentage of apoptotic CD4 (+) T cells, body weight, and systemic side effects were evaluated. RESULTS LDPDT improved the MEIC ( P = 0.011) and the histological score ( P = 0.025), diminished the expression indices of the proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 ( P = 0.042), interleukin-17 ( P = 0.029), and interferon-gamma ( P = 0.014), decreased the number of mucosal CD4 (+) T cells, and increased the percentage of apoptotic CD4 (+) T cells compared with the disease control group. No local or systemic side effects occurred. CONCLUSION LDPDT improves murine T cell-mediated colitis, decreases the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6, interleukin-17, and interferon-gamma, and decreases the number of CD4 (+) T cells. No adverse events were observed. Therefore, this technique is now being evaluated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
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Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor elicits bone marrow-derived cells that promote efficient colonic mucosal healing. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010; 16:428-41. [PMID: 19639560 DOI: 10.1002/ibd.21072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) therapy is effective in treating some Crohn's disease (CD) patients and protects mice from colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) administration. However, its mechanisms of action remain elusive. We hypothesized that GM-CSF affects intestinal mucosal repair. METHODS DSS colitic mice were treated with daily pegylated GM-CSF or saline and clinical, histological, and inflammatory parameters were kinetically evaluated. Further, the role of bone marrow-derived cells in the impact of GM-CSF therapy on DSS colitis was addressed using cell transfers. RESULTS GM-CSF therapy reduced clinical signs of colitis and the release of inflammatory mediators. GM-CSF therapy improved mucosal repair, with faster ulcer reepithelialization, accelerated hyperproliferative response of epithelial cells in ulcer-adjacent crypts, and lower colonoscopic ulceration scores in GM-CSF-administered mice relative to untreated mice. We observed that GM-CSF-induced promotion of mucosal repair is timely associated with a reduction in neutrophil numbers and increased accumulation of CD11b(+) monocytic cells in colon tissues. Importantly, transfer of splenic GM-CSF-induced CD11b(+) myeloid cells into DSS-exposed mice improved colitis, and lethally irradiated GM-CSF receptor-deficient mice reconstituted with wildtype bone marrow cells were protected from DSS-induced colitis upon GM-CSF therapy. Lastly, GM-CSF-induced CD11b(+) myeloid cells were shown to promote in vitro wound repair. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that GM-CSF-dependent stimulation of bone marrow-derived cells during DSS-induced colitis accelerates colonic tissue repair. These data provide a putative mechanism for the observed beneficial effects of GM-CSF therapy in Crohn's disease.
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Supravalvuläre Aortenstenose mit primärer Aortenhypoplasie und Koronararterienanomalie*. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1227454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Die Nierenarteriographie unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Nierenarterienanomalien. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1227717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Die retrograde kraniale Cavographie. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1227563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Angeborene kontralaterale arteriovenöse Anastomose im Halsbereich*. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1228998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Interleukin-17 is a critical mediator of vaccine-induced reduction of Helicobacter infection in the mouse model. Gastroenterology 2009; 136:2237-2246.e1. [PMID: 19272385 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2009.02.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2007] [Revised: 01/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Despite the proven ability of immunization to reduce Helicobacter infection in mouse models, the precise mechanism of protection has remained elusive. This study explores the possibility that interleukin (IL)-17 plays a role in the reduction of Helicobacter infection following vaccination of wild-type animals or in spontaneous reduction of bacterial infection in IL-10-deficient mice. METHODS In mice, reducing Helicobacter infection, the levels and source of IL-17 were determined and the role of IL-17 in reduction of Helicobacter infection was probed by neutralizing antibodies. RESULTS Gastric IL-17 levels were strongly increased in mice mucosally immunized with urease plus cholera toxin and challenged with Helicobacter felis as compared with controls (654 +/- 455 and 34 +/- 84 relative units for IL-17 messenger RNA expression [P < .01] and 6.9 +/- 8.4 and 0.02 +/- 0.04 pg for IL-17 protein concentration [P < .01], respectively). Flow cytometry analysis showed that a peak of CD4(+)IL-17(+) T cells infiltrating the gastric mucosa occurred in immunized mice in contrast to control mice (4.7% +/- 0.3% and 1.4% +/- 0.3% [P < .01], respectively). Gastric mucosa-infiltrating CD4(+)IL-17(+) T cells were also observed in IL-10-deficient mice that spontaneously reduced H felis infection (4.3% +/- 2.3% and 2% +/- 0.6% [P < .01], for infected and noninfected IL-10-deficient mice, respectively). In wild-type immunized mice, intraperitoneal injection of anti-IL-17 antibodies significantly inhibited inflammation and the reduction of Helicobacter infection in comparison with control antibodies (1 of 12 mice vs 9 of 12 mice reduced Helicobacter infection [P < .01], respectively). CONCLUSIONS IL-17 plays a critical role in the immunization-induced reduction of Helicobacter infection from the gastric mucosa.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to wild type, interleukin-10-deficient (IL-10(-/-)) mice are able to clear Helicobacter infection. In this study, we investigated the immune response of IL-10(-/-) mice leading to the reduction of Helicobacter infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS We characterized the immune responses of Helicobacter felis-infected IL-10(-/-) mice by studying the systemic antibody and cellular responses toward Helicobacter. We investigated the role of CD4(+) T cells in the Helicobacter clearance by injecting H. felis-infected IL-10(-/-) mice with anti-CD4 depleting antibodies. To examine the role of mast cells in Helicobacter clearance, we constructed and infected mast cells and IL-10 double-deficient mice. RESULTS Reduction of Helicobacter infection in IL-10(-/-) mice is associated with strong humoral (fivefold higher serum antiurease antibody titers were measured in IL-10(-/-) in comparison to wild-type mice, p < .008) and cellular (urease-stimulated splenic CD4(+) T cells isolated from infected IL-10(-/-) mice produce 150-fold more interferon-gamma in comparison to wild-type counterparts, p < .008) immune responses directed toward Helicobacter. Depletion of CD4(+) cells from Helicobacter-infected IL-10(-/-) mice lead to the loss of bacterial clearance (rapid urease tests are threefold higher in CD4(+) depleted IL-10(-/-) in comparison to nondepleted IL-10(-/-) mice, p < .02). Mast cell IL-10(-/-) double-deficient mice clear H. felis infection, indicating that mast cells are unnecessary for the bacterial eradication in IL-10(-/-) mice. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results suggest that CD4(+) cells are required for Helicobacter clearance in IL-10(-/-) mice. This reduction of Helicobacter infection is, however, not dependent on the mast cell population.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Despite the proven ability of immunization to prevent Helicobacter infection in mouse models, the precise mechanism of protection has remained elusive. METHODS We explored the cellular events associated with Helicobacter clearance from the stomach following vaccination by flow cytometry analysis and histological and molecular studies. RESULTS Kinetic studies showed that the infection is undetectable in vaccinated mice at day 5 postbacterial challenge. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the percentages of mast cells (CD3 - CD117 + ) increased in the lymphoid cells isolated from the stomach at day 4 postchallenge in urease + cholera toxin (CT)-vaccinated mice in comparison with mice administered with CT alone (9.4% +/- 4.4% and 3.1% +/- 1%, respectively, for vaccinated and CT administered, n = 5; P < .01). Quantitative PCR analysis showed an increased messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of the mast cell proteases 1 and 2 at day 5 postchallenge in the stomach of vaccinated mice. In contrast to wild-type mice, mast cell-deficient mice (W/W v mice) were not protected from H felis colonization after vaccination. Indeed only 1 out of 12 vaccinated W/W v mice showed a negative urease test. Remarkably, vaccinated W/W v mice reconstituted with cultured bone marrow-derived mast cells recovered the ability to clear the infection after vaccination (8 out of 10 mast cell-reconstituted mice showed negative urease tests [ P < .006 as compared with wild-type mice]). CONCLUSIONS These experiments show that mast cells are, unexpectedly, critical mediators of anti- Helicobacter vaccination.
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Passive immunity in Helicobacter-challenged neonatal mice conferred by immunized dams lasts until weaning. Infect Immun 2003; 71:2226-9. [PMID: 12654845 PMCID: PMC152048 DOI: 10.1128/iai.71.4.2226-2229.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the effect of breast-feeding by immunized dams on Helicobacter colonization in newborns. Urease-based immunization regimens failed to protect nursing pups against H. felis, whereas H. felis lysate-cholera toxin resulted in protection. This observation correlated with a high recognition of cell surface-expressed bacterial antigens by milk antibodies. Protection lasted until weaning, indicating that infection is maintained at undetectable levels by passive immunity but then resumes when breast-feeding stops.
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Deletion at 3p25.3-p23 is frequently encountered in endocrine pancreatic tumours and is associated with metastatic progression. J Pathol 2001; 194:451-8. [PMID: 11523053 DOI: 10.1002/path.886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
For several reasons, chromosome 3p is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of sporadic endocrine pancreatic tumours (EPTs): von Hippel-Lindau's disease (VHL gene at 3p25.5) is associated with EPTs; 3p is frequently involved in solid human tumours; and comparative genomic hybridization has identified frequent losses at 3p in EPTs. This study investigated 99 benign and malignant tumours, including 20 metastases, from 82 patients, by microsatellite loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in order to evaluate the importance of chromosome 3p deletions in the molecular pathogenesis and biological behaviour of EPTs, to elaborate a common region of deletion, and to narrow down putative tumour suppressor gene loci. Allelic losses of 3p were found in 58/99 (58.6%) of tumours in 45/82 (54.9%) patients; analysis of seven microsatellite markers (3p26-p21) revealed a common region of LOH at 3p25.3-p23. The LOH frequency was significantly higher in malignant than in benign neoplasms (70.2% versus 28.0%; p=0.001). In addition, a strong correlation was found between the loss of alleles on chromosome 3p and clinically metastatic disease (LOH of 73.7% in metastasizing versus 41.5% in non-metastasizing tumours; p=0.008). EPTs from these patients showed a tendency towards losing large parts or the entire short arm of chromosome 3 with tumour progression. Furthermore, FISH analysis revealed complete loss of chromosome 3 in ten out of 37 EPTs (27%). These results indicate that a putative tumour suppressor gene at 3p25.3-p23 may play a role in the oncogenesis of sporadic EPTs and that losses of larger centromeric regions are associated with metastatic progression.
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Survivors with bad outcome after hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy: full-term neonates compare unfavourably with children. Swiss Med Wkly 2001; 131:267-72. [PMID: 11452865 DOI: 10.4414/smw.2001.09717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) is of major importance in neonatal and paediatric intensive care with regard to mortality and long-term morbidity. Our aim was to analyse our data in full-term neonates and children with special regard to withdrawal of life support and bad outcome. PATIENTS All patients with HIE admitted to our unit from 1992-96 were analysed. Criteria for HIE were presence of a hypoxic insult followed by coma or altered consciousness with or without convulsions. Severity of HIE was assessed in neonates using Sarnat stages, and in children the duration of coma. In the majority of cases staging was completed with electrophysiological studies. Outcome was described using the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Bad outcome was defined as death, permanent vegetative state or severe disability, good outcome as moderate disability or good recovery. RESULTS In the neonatal group (n = 38) outcome was significantly associated with Sarnat stages, presence of convulsions, severely abnormal EEG, cardiovascular failure, and multiple organ dysfunction (MOD). A bad outcome was observed in 27 cases with 14 deaths and 13 survivors. Supportive treatment was withdrawn in 14 cases with 9 subsequent deaths. In the older age group (n = 45) outcome was related to persistent coma of 24-48 h, severely abnormal EEG, cardiovascular failure, liver dysfunction and MOD. A bad outcome was found in 36 cases with 33 deaths and 3 survivors. Supportive treatment was withdrawn in 15 instances, all followed by death. CONCLUSIONS Overall, neonates and older patients did not differ with regard to good or bad outcome. However, in the neonatal group there were significantly more survivors with bad outcome, either overall or after withdrawal of support. Possible explanations for this difference include variability of hypoxic insult, maturational and metabolic differences, and the more compliant neonatal skull, which prevents brainstem herniation.
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Survivors with bad outcome after hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy: full-term neonates compare unfavourably with children. Swiss Med Wkly 2001; 131:267-72. [PMID: 11452865 DOI: 2001/19/smw-09717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) is of major importance in neonatal and paediatric intensive care with regard to mortality and long-term morbidity. Our aim was to analyse our data in full-term neonates and children with special regard to withdrawal of life support and bad outcome. PATIENTS All patients with HIE admitted to our unit from 1992-96 were analysed. Criteria for HIE were presence of a hypoxic insult followed by coma or altered consciousness with or without convulsions. Severity of HIE was assessed in neonates using Sarnat stages, and in children the duration of coma. In the majority of cases staging was completed with electrophysiological studies. Outcome was described using the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Bad outcome was defined as death, permanent vegetative state or severe disability, good outcome as moderate disability or good recovery. RESULTS In the neonatal group (n = 38) outcome was significantly associated with Sarnat stages, presence of convulsions, severely abnormal EEG, cardiovascular failure, and multiple organ dysfunction (MOD). A bad outcome was observed in 27 cases with 14 deaths and 13 survivors. Supportive treatment was withdrawn in 14 cases with 9 subsequent deaths. In the older age group (n = 45) outcome was related to persistent coma of 24-48 h, severely abnormal EEG, cardiovascular failure, liver dysfunction and MOD. A bad outcome was found in 36 cases with 33 deaths and 3 survivors. Supportive treatment was withdrawn in 15 instances, all followed by death. CONCLUSIONS Overall, neonates and older patients did not differ with regard to good or bad outcome. However, in the neonatal group there were significantly more survivors with bad outcome, either overall or after withdrawal of support. Possible explanations for this difference include variability of hypoxic insult, maturational and metabolic differences, and the more compliant neonatal skull, which prevents brainstem herniation.
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[Epiglottitis--a pediatric disease?]. SCHWEIZERISCHE MEDIZINISCHE WOCHENSCHRIFT 2001; Suppl 125:35S-37S. [PMID: 11141935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Epiglottitis, commonly described as a paediatric disease, also occurs in adults. Early diagnosis and immediate treatment are crucial because of the rapid and possibly lethal course of upper airway obstruction due to swelling. Initial treatment consists in securing the upper airway and in antibiotic treatment. Streptococci and, especially in children, Haemophilus influenzae b are the most common bacteria. Our study focused on clinical and epidemiological changes since children started to be vaccinated against Haemophilus influenzae b in Switzerland (1992). We reviewed patient histories of 31 adults and 88 children who were hospitalised with epiglottitis at the University Hospital of Berne between 1989 and 1999. Our findings show that the incidence of epiglottitis in children, a clinically, epidemiologically and bacteriologically homogeneous disease, has dramatically decreased. Epiglottitis in adults presents as a more heterogeneous disease without change since the beginning of the vaccination programme. Due to the variety of germs it is impossible to recommend vaccination for adults against Haemophilus influenzae b.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES It was the aim of the study to test the prognostic value of cardiac troponin-I (cTnI) concerning the early postoperative course after pediatric cardiac surgery. BACKGROUND Cardiac troponin-I is a very specific and sensitive marker of myocardial damage in adults and children. As perioperative myocardial damage may be a significant factor of postoperative cardiac performance, serial cTnI values were analyzed in children undergoing open heart surgery. METHODS Seventy-three children undergoing elective correction of congenital heart disease including atrial and ventricular surgical manipulation were studied. Cardiac troponin-I levels were measured serially and correlated with intra- and postoperative parameters (such as doses and length of inotropic support, renal and hepatic function, duration of intubation). Patients with prolonged postoperative recovery were analyzed with special attention to the cTnI levels. RESULTS The cutoff point for the definition of a high and a low risk group of cTnI values was set at 25 microg/liter, 4 h after admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and at 35 microg/liter considering the maximal value of cTnI in the first 24 h in the ICU. The results showed a highly significant correlation between the need for inotropic support, the severity of renal dysfunction and the duration of intubation in relation to the serum levels of cTnI. CONCLUSIONS Cardiac troponin-I serum levels after open heart surgery in children and infants 4 h after admission to the ICU allowed anticipation of the postoperative course and correlated with the incidence of significant postoperative complications.
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Oral immunization with urease and Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin is safe and immunogenic in Helicobacter pylori-infected adults. Gastroenterology 1999; 116:804-12. [PMID: 10092302 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5085(99)70063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Oral immunization with Helicobacter pylori urease can cure Helicobacter infection in animals. As a step toward therapeutic immunization in humans, the safety and immunogenicity of oral immunization with recombinant H. pylori urease were tested in H. pylori-infected adults. METHODS Twenty-six H. pylori-infected volunteers were randomized in a double-blind study to four weekly oral doses of 180, 60, or 20 mg of urease with 5 microg heat-labile enterotoxin of Escherichia coli (LT), LT alone, or placebo. Side effects and immune responses were evaluated weekly after immunization, and gastric biopsy specimens were obtained after 1 month and 6 months for histology and quantitative cultures. RESULTS Diarrhea was noted in 16 of 24 (66%) of the volunteers who completed the study. Antiurease serum immunoglobulin A titers increased 1. 58-fold +/- 0.37-fold and 3.66-fold +/- 1.5-fold (mean +/- SEM) after immunization with 60 and 180 mg urease, respectively, whereas no change occurred in the placebo +/- LT groups (P = 0.005). Circulating antiurease immunoglobulin A-producing cells increased in volunteers exposed to urease compared with placebo (38.9 +/- 13. 6/10(6) vs. 5.4 +/- 3.1; P = 0.018). Eradication of H. pylori infection was not observed, but urease immunization induced a significant decrease in gastric H. pylori density. CONCLUSIONS H. pylori urease with LT is well tolerated and immunogenic in H. pylori-infected individuals. An improved vaccine formulation may induce curative immunity.
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Abstract
UNLABELLED After institutional approval and informed consent, we studied the effect of epidural bupivacaine 0.5% on visceral perfusion and metabolism by using gastric mucosal tonometry in 30 patients in a placebo-controlled fashion. The maximal intramucosal pH (pHi) decrease was significantly (P < 0.001) greater in the control group (0.16 +/- 0.04) than in the thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) group (0.07 +/- 0.05). There were 10 patients in the control group and 2 patients in the TEA group who had evidence of gastric mucosal ischemia (pHi <7.32) at the end of the study (P< 0.01). The differences in pHi and intramucosal CO2 (PiCO2) became statistically significant between the groups after 180 and 240 min. The study data show that TEA prevents the decrease of pHi during major abdominal surgery, perhaps as an effect of stable visceral perfusion. We conclude that TEA may be a valuable method for intra- and postoperative treatment of surgical stress. IMPLICATIONS The present study shows that thoracic epidural anesthesia prevents a decrease of intramucosal pH during major abdominal surgery, which suggests that thoracic epidural anesthesia may be a valuable tool for the treatment of surgical stress.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND To maintain good exposure during major video-assisted thoracic surgery it is necessary to deflate completely the ipsilateral lung. However, little is known about the effects of one-lung ventilation (OLV) on pulmonary function in newborn patients. METHODS Ten neonatal domestic pigs with a mean age of 6+/-0.6 days were intubated and ventilated in pressure-controlled mode (inspired oxygen fraction=1.0). One-lung ventilation was maintained for 120 minutes. Serial measurements of hemodynamics and gas exchange were done before, during, and until 90 minutes after OLV. Pulmonary function testing was performed before and after OLV for each lung separately. RESULTS With the inspired oxygen fraction set at 1.0, arterial oxygen saturation remained stable at 100% during OLV. Venous admixture and alveolar-arterial oxygen tension gradient increased slightly from the baseline value of 2.6% +/-0.3% to 3.8%+/-0.3% during OLV (mean+/-standard error of the mean; p=0.02), and from 358+/-28 to 407+/-18 mm Hg (not significant), respectively. Both values returned to baseline during the subsequent ventilation of both lungs. Static compliance and resistance of the ventilated lung did not change. Compliance of the collapsed lung decreased after reexpansion from 0.42+/-0.07 to 0.29+/-0.06 mL x cm H2O(-1) x kg(-1), p=0.008). Resistance remained unchanged (0.22+/-0.02 versus 0.25+/-0.05 cm H2O x L(-1) x s(-1); not significant). CONCLUSIONS There were only minor effects on pulmonary function during and after OLV in the neonatal piglet. Alterations in gas exchange during OLV were minimal. Prolonged collapse of the lung with subsequent reexpansion was associated with a slight decrease in compliance, indicating some mild lung injury.
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Mice are protected from Helicobacter pylori infection by nasal immunization with attenuated Salmonella typhimurium phoPc expressing urease A and B subunits. Infect Immun 1998; 66:581-6. [PMID: 9453612 PMCID: PMC113500 DOI: 10.1128/iai.66.2.581-586.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/1997] [Accepted: 11/28/1997] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Live Salmonella typhimurium phoPc bacteria were tested as mucosal vaccine vectors to deliver Helicobacter pylori antigens. The genes encoding the A and B subunits of H. pylori urease were introduced into S. typhimurium phoPc and expressed under the control of a constitutive tac promoter (tac-ureAB) or a two-phase T7 expression system (cT7-ureAB). Both recombinant Salmonella strains expressed the two urease subunits in vitro and were used to nasally immunize BALB/c mice. The plasmid carrying cT7-ureAB was stably inherited by bacteria growing or persisting in the spleen, lungs, mesenteric or cervical lymph nodes, and Peyer's patches of immunized mice, while the plasmid carrying tac-ureAB was rapidly lost. Spleen and Peyer's patch CD4+ lymphocytes from mice immunized with S. typhimurium phopc cT7-ureAB proliferated in vitro in response to urease, whereas cells from mice given S. typhimurium phoPc alone did not. Splenic CD4+ cells from mice immunized with phoPc cT7-ureAB secreted gamma interferon and interleukin 10, while Peyer's patch CD4+ cells did not secrete either cytokine. Specific H. pylori anti-urease immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgG2A antibodies were detected following immunization, confirming that both Th1- and Th2-type immune responses were generated by the live vaccine. Sixty percent of the mice (9 of 15) immunized with S. typhimurium phoPc cT7-ureAB were found to be resistant to infection by H. pylori, while all mice immunized with phoPc tac-ureAB (15 of 15) or phoPc (15 of 15) were infected. Our data demonstrate that H. pylori urease delivered nasally by using a vaccine strain of S. typhimurium can trigger Th1- and Th2-type responses and induce protective immunity against Helicobacter infection.
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