Deficiency for mannan-binding lectin is associated with antibodies to Saccharomyces cerevisiae in patients with Crohn's disease and their relatives.
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Antibodies, Fungal↗
Biomedical subjects
S Müller
Publications and source records attributed to S Müller.
Reactivity, stability, and strength performance capacity in motor sports.
BACKGROUND: Racing drivers require multifaceted cognitive and physical abilities in a multitasking situation. A knowledge of their physical capacities may help to improve fitness and performance. OBJECTIVE: To compare reaction time, stability performance capacity, and strength performance capacity of élite racing drivers with those of age-matched, physically active controls. METHODS: Eight élite racing drivers and 10 physically active controls matched for age and weight were tested in a reaction and determination test requiring upper and lower extremity responses to visual and audio cues. Further tests comprised evaluation of one-leg postural stability on a two-dimensional moveable platform, measures of maximum strength performance capacity of the extensors of the leg on a leg press, and a test of force capacity of the arms in a sitting position at a steering wheel. An additional arm endurance test consisted of isometric work at the steering wheel at +30 degrees and -30 degrees where an eccentric threshold load of 30 N.m was applied. Subjects had to hold the end positions above this threshold until exhaustion. Univariate one way analysis of variance (alpha = 0.05) including a Bonferroni adjustment was used to detect group differences between the drivers and controls. RESULTS: The reaction time of the racing drivers was significantly faster than the controls (p = 0.004). The following motor reaction time and reaction times in the multiple determination test did not differ between the groups. No significant differences (p>0.05) were found for postural stability, leg extensor strength, or arm strength and endurance. CONCLUSIONS: Racing drivers have faster reaction times than age-matched physically active controls. Further development of motor sport-specific test protocols is suggested. According to the requirements of motor racing, strength and sensorimotor performance capacity can potentially be improved.
Adult↗
Combination therapy using fexofenadine, disodium cromoglycate, and a hypoallergenic amino acid-based formula induced remission in a patient with steroid-dependent, chronically active ulcerative colitis.
Corticosteroids and 5-aminosalicylic acid are the primary standard therapy for inflammatory bowel disease. Recent immunologic data implicate an involvement of mast cell activation followed by increased histamine secretion and elevated tissue concentrations of histamine in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. In the present case, the clinical course of a 35-year-old man with steroid-dependent chronic active ulcerative colitis, who did not respond to high-dose steroids, antibiotics, or azathioprine during 3 years, is reported. Clinical disease activity and established serological markers were recorded during 6 weeks of unsuccessful therapy and during the next 6 weeks, as a new nonsedative antihistaminergic drug, a mast cell stabilizer, and an hypoallergenic diet were implemented in addition to conventional therapy. Induction of remission was achieved within 2 weeks after treatment with fexofenadine, disodium cromoglycate, and an amino acid-based formula. Clinical disease activity, stool frequency, leukocytes, c-reactive protein, and orosomucoid levels in serum decreased rapidly. Daily steroid administration could be gradually reduced along with 6 weeks of this treatment. This report suggests that histamine and mast cell activity may be important pathophysiological factors responsible for persistent clinical and mucosal inflammatory activity in ulcerative colitis despite the use of steroids. In ulcerative colitis, patients unresponsive to conventional treatment, therapeutic considerations should also include an antiallergic approach when further signs of atopy or intestinal hypersensitivity are present.
Administration, Oral↗
Catalyst-nanostructure interaction in the growth of 1-D ZnO nanostructures.
Vapor-liquid-solid is a well-established process in catalyst guided growth of 1-D nanostructures, i.e., nanobelts and nanowires. The catalyst particle is generally believed to be in the liquid state during growth, and is the site for impinging molecules. The crystalline structure of the catalyst may not have any influence on the structure of the grown nanostructures. In this work, using Au guided growth of ZnO, we show that the interfaces between the catalyst droplet and the nanostructure grow in well-defined mutual crystallographic relationships. The nanostructure defines the crystallographic orientation of the solidifying Au droplet. Possible alloy, intermetallic, or eutectic phase formation during catalysis are elucidated with the help of a proposed ternary Au-Zn-O phase diagram.
Catalysis↗
Mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory actions of boswellic acid derivatives in experimental colitis.
Recent clinical trials of the gum resin of Boswellia serrata have shown promising results in patients with ulcerative colitis. The objective of this study was to determine whether a semisynthetic form of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (sAKBA), the most potent anti-inflammatory component of the resin, also confers protection in experimental murine colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to compare its effects with those standard medications of ulcerative colitis like steroids and to examine whether leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesion is a major target of action of sAKBA. Clinical measurements of disease activity and histology were used to assess disease progression, and intravital microscopy was employed to monitor the adhesion of leukocytes and platelets in postcapillary venules of the inflamed colon. sAKBA treatment significantly blunted disease activity as assessed both grossly and by histology. Similarly, the recruitment of adherent leukocytes and platelets into inflamed colonic venules was profoundly reduced in mice treated with sAKBA. Because previous studies in the DSS model have shown that P-selectin mediates these blood cell-endothelial cell interactions, the expression of P-selectin in the colonic microcirculation was monitored using the dual-radiolabeled antibody technique. The treatment of established colitis with sAKBA largely prevented the P-selectin upregulation normally associated with DSS colitis. All of the protective responses observed with sAKBA were comparable to that realized in mice treated with a corticosteroid. Our findings demonstrated an anti-inflammatory effect of sAKBA and indicated that P-selectin-mediated recruitment of inflammatory cells is a major site of action for this novel anti-inflammatory agent.
Animals↗
Analysis of living S. cerevisiae cell states--a three color approach.
BACKGROUND: Biosyntheses often fluctuate with the state of the cell in the cell cycle and on the capacity of the cell to access and metabolize a carbon source. Visualization of substrate uptake by individual cells, together with the simultaneous analysis of proliferation activity and the proportion of dead cells, facilitate reliable and quasi-online process optimization. METHODS: Flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining were used to follow proliferation activity of living Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, whereas 2-NBD-glucose was employed to analyze the cells' substrate affinity. Propidium iodide was used to determine the proportion of dead cells. Calibration and verification experiments were performed with cells grown batch-wise as well as in transient state regimes. RESULTS: A new and rapid three-color assay was developed and tested under varying microenvironmental conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Live/dead cell states and the affinity to 2-NBD-glucose vs. proliferation states were determined during respiratory and/or fermentative modes of metabolism.
4-Chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan↗
Targeted-HASTE imaging with automated device tracking for MR-guided needle interventions in closed-bore MR systems.
Percutaneous MR-guided interventions with needles require fast pulse sequences to image the needle trajectory with minimal susceptibility artifacts. Spin-echo pulse sequences are well suited for reducing artifact size; however, even with single-shot turbo spin-echo techniques, such as rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement (RARE) or half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo (HASTE), fast imaging remains challenging. In this work we present a HASTE pulse sequence that is combined with inner-volume excitation to reduce the scan time and limit the imaging field of view (FOV) to a small strip close to the needle trajectory (targeted-HASTE). To compensate for signal saturation from fast repeated acquisitions, a magnetization restore pulse (driven equilibrium Fourier transform (DEFT)) is used. The sequence is combined with dedicated active marker coils to measure the position and orientation of the needle so that the targeted-HASTE image slice is automatically repositioned. In an animal experiment the coils were attached to an MR-compatible robotic assistance system for MR-guided interventions. Needle insertion and infusion via the needle could be visualized with a temporal resolution of 1 s, and the needle tip could be localized even in the presence of a stainless steel mandrel.
Animals↗
[Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney].
Primitive neuroectodermal Tumor (PNET) is a rare malignant tumor of young adult. Patients often present with the classical trias of renal cancer (pain, haematuria, palpable tumor). Specific radiological signs are missing, and therefore a PNET is often diagnosed postoperatively. It is characterized by the expression of MIC2, neural markers (Vimentin, S-100, Synaptophysin) and EWS/FLI1-translocation. The tumor is often diagnosed in advanced stage, and prognosis is poor despite of multimodal treatment including radical nephrectomy, polychemotherapy (vincristine, adriamycin, cyclophosphamid, etoposide, ifosfamide) and radiation in case of metastases or incomplete resection of primary tumor. We represent two cases of metastatic renal PNET in a 28- and 39-year-old patient. Due to the multimodal treatment a partial and a complete remission was achieved, respectively.
Adult↗
[Three-dimensional analysis of the foot following implantation of a HINTEGRA ankle prosthesis: evaluation with the Heidelberg foot model].
Detailed foot kinematics after total ankle replacement has not yet been investigated. In this study 11 patients with unilateral Hintegra ankle prosthesis were analysed with the Heidelberg Foot Model. This model measures the kinematics of the fore-, mid- and hindfoot in three clinical planes. Moreover, the kinetics of the hip, knee and ankle was captured. A diminished ROM was found in all foot segments investigated. The timing of the kinematics between sound and involved side appeared similar. A limitation in the hindfoot mobility, as experienced after ankle arthrodesis, was not observed. However, a careful hindfoot alignment is essential for optimal foot function, and previous malalignments should be corrected. Concerning the kinetics, the replaced ankle showed a decreased power generation compensated by an increase in power in the ipsilateral knee. For a more detailed evaluation, further studies are required which include pre- and postoperative data and also take into account different types of prostheses.
Aged↗
[Radial optic neurotomy: efficacy monitoring using venous ophthalmodynamometry].
BACKGROUND: Retinal central venous outflow pressure (VOP) can be measured with a new ophthalmodynamometer (Meditron, Völklingen, Germany). Radial optic neurotomy (RON) is a new surgical approach for central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) which is still controversially discussed. Particularly the early formation of retinochoroidal collaterals is intended to achieve normalization of the preoperatively increased pressure in the central retinal vein. We investigated the VOP after RON. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In total, 21 eyes of 21 patients (9 male, 12 female) suffering from CRVO were treated by RON. Pars plana vitrectomy with nasal radial optic neurotomy and peeling of the internal limiting membrane were performed. The mean follow-up time was 10.8 months (6-24 months). Central venous outflow pressure was measured using ophthalmodynamometry. RESULTS: The most frequent concomitant ophthalmic disease was glaucoma (52%), and the predominantly associated systemic disease was hypertension (81%). After RON in 16 eyes (76%) visual acuity improved by at least 2 lines; in 3 eyes (14%) visual acuity was unchanged (+/-1 line) and in 2 patients (10%) visual acuity decreased by 2 or more lines. Eyes with visual improvement and formation of chorioretinal anastomosis postoperatively showed a significantly lower venous outflow pressure assessed with ophthalmodynamometry.
Adult↗
[Foreign body-induced angiosarcoma 60 years after a shell splinter injury].
An 84-year-old gentleman developed an angiosarcoma in the lateral temporal fossa 60 years after a World War II injury. The tumour resection confirmed the close spatial relationship of the tumour and a shell splinter. Analysis of the metallic composition showed no clear carcinogenic potential of the ingredients; an inflammation-related carcinogenesis seems more probable. A review of the literature revealed two similar cases.
Aged, 80 and over↗
Magnetite-loaded carrier erythrocytes as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging.
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are commonly used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but their fast phagocytosis makes them less than ideal for this application. To circumvent the lymphocyte-macrophage system, we encapsulated SPIONs into red blood cells (RBCs). For loading, the RBC's membrane was opened by swelling under hypoosmotic conditions and subsequently resealed. In this work, we demonstrate that SPIONs can be loaded into RBCs in a concentration sufficient to obtain strong contrast enhancement in MRI.
Erythrocytes↗
Sensors made of RNA: tailored ribozymes for detection of small organic molecules, metals, nucleic acids and proteins.
Nucleic acids are well suited to serve as biosensors for the fast and reliable detection of small organic molecules, such as a number of metabolites or antibiotics, specific nucleic acid sequences, peptides, proteins or metal ions. One of the main advantages of using nucleic acids as biosensors is that they can be modulated to respond allosterically to specific effectors. Thus molecular recognition is transformed directly into a catalytic process with observable results. In particular, catalytic RNA structures, such as the hammerhead and hairpin ribozymes, have been used for biosensor engineering. The review reports on the function mode of nucleic acid biosensors and introduces recent developments and applications in the field.
Biosensing Techniques↗
Type II collagen, but not aggrecan expression, distinguishes clear cell chondrosarcoma and chondroblastoma.
AIM: Chondroblastoma and clear cell chondrosarcoma are uncommon skeletal neoplasms that have a strong tendency to involve the epiphysis of long bones. They also share some overlapping histological features. Thus, it can be difficult both radiographically and histologically to distinguish these neoplasms. So far there are no immunohistochemical markers available that have been shown to be helpful in differentiating these neoplasms. METHODS: In our study of a series of clear cell chondrosarcomas (n = 15) and chondroblastomas (n = 35), S100, vimentin, aggrecan and collagen type II were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: We detected immunohistochemical evidence of type II collagen within both the extracellular matrix-rich (chondroid) and matrix-poor areas in all 15 cases of clear cell chondrosarcoma. In contrast, immunohistochemical analysis failed to show staining of collagen type II in any of the 35 chondroblastomas. Other markers, including S100 protein, vimentin and aggrecan proteoglycan were tested in parallel and found to be focally positive in both neoplasms. CONCLUSION: Therefore, our data show that in cases when clear cell chondrosarcoma and chondroblastoma pose a diagnostic challenge, the presence of type II collagen in the extracellular tumour matrix significantly supports the diagnosis of clear cell chondrosarcoma and aids in distinguishing it from chondroblastoma.
Aggrecans↗
Predictive medicine and clinical cytomics research: résumé of the 15th Annual Meeting of the German Society for Cytometry (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Zytometrie, DGfZ).
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Flow Cytometry↗
Effects of essential oils from fennel (Foeniculi aetheroleum) and caraway (Carvi aetheroleum) in pigs.
The ban of antibiotics as a feed additive requires alternatives to stabilize the health and performance particularly of the young animals. Essential oils obtained from fennel seed (Foeniculi aetheroleum) and caraway seed (Carvi aetheroleum) were tested in diets for weaned piglets in comparison with either a diet without feed additive or with a combination of formic acid and copper (positive control). Four groups of sixteen piglets (live weight 7 kg, age 26 days) received diets without (1) or with supplements of 7.5 g formic acid + 160 mg Cu/kg (2), 100 mg fennel oil/kg (3) or 100 mg caraway oil/kg (4) during 3 weeks after weaning. In the subsequent 4 weeks, all piglets were fed a diet without these additions. Fennel oil contained almost 2/3 anethol, approximately 1/5 fenchon and the remaining part consisting of alpha + beta-pinen, limonen (p-mentha-1,8-dien) and estragol. In the caraway oil, half of the contents was represented by limonen and the other half by carvon. There were no piglet losses and only few cases of diarrhoea. The combination of formic acid and copper increased feed consumption by 27% and daily weight gain by 25%. There were no differences in the performance between the group fed fennel oil and the control without additives. Piglets fed caraway oil tended to consume less feed and to gain approximately 10% less. In feed choice experiments, pigs consumed the same two diets from two troughs with 50% of total feed amount, as expected. The diets containing fennel or caraway oils were consumed at less than 50%. If the diet contained 100 mg fennel oil/kg, the decrease of percentual feed intake was significant. The results of the feeding experiment and of the feed choice experiment question the classification of fennel and caraway oils as flavour additives or as 'appetite promoters' in diets for weaned piglets.
Animal Feed↗
Multicolor chromosome bar codes.
Chromosome bar codes are multicolor banding patterns produced by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with differentially labeled and pooled sub-regional DNA probes. These molecular cytogenetic tools facilitate chromosome identification and the delineation of both inter- and intra-chromosomal rearrangements. We present an overview of the various conceptual approaches which can be largely divided into two classes: Simple bar codes designed for chromosome identification and complex bar codes for high resolution aberration screening of entire karyotypes. We address the issue of color redundancy and how to overcome this limitation by complementation of bar codes with whole chromosome painting probes.
Chromosome Aberrations↗
Towards many colors in FISH on 3D-preserved interphase nuclei.
The article reviews the existing methods of multicolor FISH on nuclear targets, first of all, interphase chromosomes. FISH proper and image acquisition are considered as two related components of a single process. We discuss (1) M-FISH (combinatorial labeling + deconvolution + wide-field microscopy); (2) multicolor labeling + SIM (structured illumination microscopy); (3) the standard approach to multicolor FISH + CLSM (confocal laser scanning microscopy; one fluorochrome - one color channel); (4) combinatorial labeling + CLSM; (5) non-combinatorial labeling + CLSM + linear unmixing. Two related issues, deconvolution of images acquired with CLSM and correction of data for chromatic Z-shift, are also discussed. All methods are illustrated with practical examples. Finally, several rules of thumb helping to choose an optimal labeling + microscopy combination for the planned experiment are suggested.
Cell Nucleus↗