MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Mediators of Inflammation' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:38:41 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673746&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2012%2F268537%2F Among spinning objects, the tippe top exhibits one of the most bizarre and counterintuitive behaviours. The commercially available tippe tops basically consist of a section of a sphere with a rod. After spinning on its rounded body, the top flips over and continues spinning on the stem. The commonly used simplified mathematical model for the tippe top is a sphere whose mass distribution is axially but not spherically symmetric, spinning on a flat surface subject to a small friction force that is due to sliding. Three main different dynamical behaviours are distinguished: tipping, nontipping, hanging, that is, the top rises but converges to an intermediate state instead of rising all the way to the vertical state. Subclasses according to the stability of relative equilibria can further be d... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673746 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673745&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjps%2F2012%2F834107%2F A general notion of bootstrapped ϕ-divergence estimates constructed by exchangeably weighting sample is introduced. Asymptotic properties of these generalized bootstrapped ϕ-divergence estimates are obtained, by means of the empirical process theory, which are applied to construct the bootstrap confidence set with asymptotically correct coverage probability. Some of practical problems are discussed, including, in particular, the choice of escort parameter, and several examples of divergences are investigated. Simulation results are provided to illustrate the finite sample performance of the proposed estimators. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673745 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673744&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpm%2F2012%2F867870%2F Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) is a recently defined syndrome, in which centrilobular and/or paraseptal emphysemas in upper lung zones coexist with pulmonary fibrosis in lower lobes in individuals. These patients have a characteristic lung function profile, with unexpected subnormal dynamic and static lung volumes, contrasting with a significant reduction of carbon monoxide transfer (DLco) and exercise hypoxemia. Pulmonary hypertension is highly prevalent in CPFE and is the leading determinant of death. Tobacco smoking has been proposed as the main factor in its etiology, though the pathophysiology and its natural history remain to be determined. High-resolution computed axial tomography is the mandatory tool to confirm the diagnosis. Currently, there is no consensus abou... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673744 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673743&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijmb%2F2012%2F405191%2F Pseudomonas aeruginosa is well adapted to grow in anaerobic environments in the presence of nitrogen oxides by generating energy through denitrification. Environmental cues, such as oxygen and nitrogen oxide concentrations, are important in regulating the gene expression involved in this process. Recent data indicate that P. aeruginosa also employs cell-to-cell communication signals to control the denitrifying activity. The regulation of denitrification by these signalling molecules may control nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide, in turn, functions as a signalling molecule by activating certain regulatory proteins. Moreover, under denitrifying conditions, drastic changes in cell physiology and cell morphology are induced that significantly impact group behaviours, such as biofilm format... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673743 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673742&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpm%2F2012%2F816541%2F We described reported radiological findings of CPFE. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673742 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673741&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijac%2F2012%2F809513%2F A liquid chromatographic procedure has been developed for the determination of carbaryl, a phenyl-N-methylcarbamate, and its main metabolite 1-naphthol, using a C18 column (250 mm  ×  4.6 mm) with a micellar mobile phase and fluorescence detection at maximum excitation/emission wavelengths of 225/333 nm, respectively. In the optimization step, surfactants sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), Brij-35 and N-cetylpyridinium chloride monohydrate, and organic solvents propanol, butanol, and pentanol were considered. The selected mobile phase was 0.15 M SDS-6% (v/v)-pentanol-0.01 M NaH2PO4 buffered at pH 3. Validation studies, according to the ICH Tripartite Guideline, included linearity (r>0.999), limit of detection (5 and 18 ng mL-1, fo... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673741 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673740&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fvmi%2F2012%2F471760%2F A study was conducted to assess the effect of multiple stresses (thermal, nutritional, and walking stress) on the reproductive performance of Malpura ewes. The study was conducted for a period of 35 days covering two estrous cycles during summer season (April-May). The ewes were randomly allocated into two groups of twelve animals each namely, GI (n=12; Control), and GII (n=1 2; Multiple stresses). GI ewes were maintained in the shed, while GII ewes were subjected to multiple stresses (thermal, nutritional, and walking stress). The estrus % differed significantly (P< 0.05) between the groups. Estrus duration also showed similar trend to that of estrus %. Both conception and lambing rate also differed significantly (P< 0.05) between the control and multiple-stress group. In additi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673740 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673739&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcdi%2F2012%2F480429%2F Despite advances in conventional treatment modalities for malignant brain tumors—surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy—the prognosis for patients with high-grade astrocytic tumor remains dismal. The highly heterogeneous and diffuse nature of astrocytic tumors calls for the development of novel therapies. Advances in genomic and proteomic research indicate that treatment of brain tumor patients can be increasingly personalized according to the characteristics of the targeted tumor and its environment. Consequently, during the last two decades, a novel class of investigative drug candidates for the treatment of central nervous system neoplasia has emerged: recombinant fusion protein conjugates armed with cytotoxic agents targeting tumor-specific antigens. The clinical applicab... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673739 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673738&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fbcri%2F2012%2F592806%2F There is evidence for an unexpected role of diferric transferrin as a terminal oxidase for the transplasma membrane oxidation of cytosolic NADH. In the original studies which showed the reduction of iron in transferrin by the plasma membranes NADH oxidase, the possible role of the reduction on iron uptake was emphasized. The rapid reoxidation of transferrin iron under aerobic conditions precludes a role for surface reduction at neutral pH for release of iron for uptake at the plasma membrane. The stimulation of cytosolic NADH oxidation by diferric transferrin indicates that the transferrin can act as a terminal oxidase for the transplasma membrane NADH oxidase or can bind to a site which activates the oxidase. Since plasma membrane NADH oxidases clearly play a role in cell signaling, the r... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673738 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673737&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Farp%2F2012%2F475015%2F Fontan and Baudet described in 1971 the separation of the pulmonary and systemic circulations resulting in univentricular physiology. The evolution of the Fontan procedure, most notably the substitution of right atrial-to-pulmonary artery anastomosis with cavopulmonary connections, resulted in significantly improved late outcomes. Many patients survive well into adulthood and are able to lead productive lives. While ideally under medical care at specialized centers for adult congenital cardiac pathology, these patients may present to the outside hospitals for emergency surgery, electrophysiologic interventions, and pregnancy. This presentation presents a “train of thought,” linking the TEE images to the perioperative physiologic considerations faced by an anesthesiologist car... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673737 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673736&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fpsychiatry%2F2012%2F674136%2F A 24-year-old pregnant female patient presented with complains of bilateral lower limb swelling and fever for 1 month. On examination, blood pressure was 144/94 mmHg along with pitting pedal edema. She had bizarre skin lesions, aligned longitudinally and distributed over the approachable site of the body with tapering ends and in various stages of healing. Lower limbs examination also revealed similar lesions with signs of cellulitis. Her scalp had short and distorted hair suggesting pulling and plucking. These skin lesions and the denial of self-infliction by the patient made us reach the diagnosis of dermatitis artefacta with trichotillomania. Psychotherapy was advocated along with conservative management of skin lesions. The patient improved and is under our follow up. (Source: M... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673736 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5673735&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fobgyn%2F2012%2F971213%2F We presented here one of these cases that followed vaginal delivery and ended with caecal perforation and hemicolectomy. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5673735 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:14:58 +0100 5673735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5453896&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F164689%2F This study provides the evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of L. indica and paves the way for future mechanism studies on the anticancer effects of MAA. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5453896 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:17:19 +0100 5453896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5453895&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fedr%2F2011%2F416254%2F The objective of this study was to generate a nongenetic mouse model of T2D. Ninety-six 6-month-old C57BL/6N males were assigned to 1 of 12 groups including (1) low-fat diet (LFD; low-fat control; LFC), (2) LFD with 1 i.p. 40 mg/kg BW streptozotocin (STZ) injection, (3), (4), (5), (6) LFD with 2, 3, 4, or 5 STZ injections on consecutive days, respectively, (7) high-fat diet (HFD), (8) HFD with 1 STZ injection, (9), (10), (11), (12) HFD with 2, 3, 4, or 5 STZ injections on consecutive days, respectively. After 4 weeks, serum insulin levels were reduced in HFD mice administered at least 2 STZ injections as compared with HFC. Glucose tolerance was impaired in mice that consumed HFD and received 2, 3, or 4 injections of STZ. Insulin sensitivity in HFD mice was lower than that of LFD mi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5453895 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:17:19 +0100 5453895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5330225&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjobes%2F2011%2F619643%2F Service evaluation of a community-based healthy lifestyle programme, designed for families aimed at preventing obesity. Physiological and behaviour measures were recorded at the beginning and end of the programme. Out of a total of 454 participants, 358 (79%) completed. From these completers 293 (64%) were analysed as there was sufficient data. The use of “high visibility recruitment” led to 77% of completers being from Coventry's two most deprived population quintiles. Ethnic minorities were also well represented. There were statistically significant self-reported behaviour changes, with improvements in fruit and vegetables eaten and decrease in consumption of crisps, snacks, and take away foods. There were also significant increases in physical activity. There... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5330225 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:27:58 +0100 5330225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5330224&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijvm%2F2011%2F823782%2F One laboratory-based and two non-laboratory-based models with and without blood pressure measures are developed based on data of 14815 men and 16617 women aged 25–64 years. During the followup 1134 men and 566 women developed coronary heart disease (CHD). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% CI) for prediction of CHD incidence was 0.823 (0.807–0.839) for the laboratory-based model, 0.808 (0.791–0.824) and 0.803 (0.787–0.820) for the non-laboratory-based models with and without systolic blood pressure in men (P<0.01 for overall comparison), and 0.878 (0.856–0.901), 0.871 (0.848–0.894), and 0.864 (0.840–0.887), respectively, in women (P<0.01). The predicted rates matched well with the observed ones (P&#x00... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5330224 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:27:58 +0100 5330224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5301650&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtd%2F2011%2F194353%2F The extension of the saturation curve Ps(T) on the PT diagram in the supercritical region for a number of monocomponent supercritical fluids by peak values for different thermophysical properties, such as heat capacities Cp and Cv and compressibility has been studied. These peaks signal about some sort of fluid structural transition in the supercritical region. Different methods give similar but progressively diverging curves Pst(T) for this transition. The zone of temperatures and pressures near these curves can be named as the zone of the fluid structural transition. The outstanding properties of supercritical fluids in this zone help to understand the physical sense of the fluid structural transition. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5301650 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 06:43:09 +0100 5301650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5301649&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijap%2F2011%2F849894%2F The contrast source inversion (CSI) algorithm was introduced for microwave imaging in 1997 and has since proven to be one of the most successful algorithms for nonlinear microwave tomography. In the CSI algorithm, the nonlinear integral equation, which must be solved to extract the constitutive electromagnetic parameters of the object under test from the microwave measurements, is represented by two linear equations, known as the data and the object equations. In this paper, the data equation in the CSI algorithm is reformulated using the so-called log-phase formulation. In this formulation, the measured data is represented by the change in the logarithm of the amplitude and the change in the unwrapped phase. This formulation has previously been applied for nonlinear tomography within the... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5301649 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 06:43:09 +0100 5301649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137647&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijo%2F2011%2F263182%2F We present the first unique design of a polarization-independent dual-wavelength splitter for wavelengths around 1.3 μm and 1.55 μm that is potentially of great interest to passive optical network (PON) applications. The filter design is simple compared with the other architectures and is based on ridge-type lateral directional couplers that can be readily integrated with other planar waveguide devices. Two design examples, based on InP/InGaAsP and Si/SiGe waveguides, are given. This polarization-independent wavelength splitting is achieved by exploiting the polarization dependence of the waveguides to produce coupling lengths that are sensitive to polarization and wavelength. We show that, to split the wavelengths without splitting the polarizations, the coupling... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137647 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137646&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Fcn%2F2011%2F481247%2F As intelligent content management of IPTV moves popular material nearer to the end-user, application-layer channel coding schemes, involving the retransmission of extra redundant data, become attractive as a result of the reduced latency. Application-layer, adaptive rateless channel coding is exploited in this paper's scheme to reconstruct streamed video across an IEEE 802.16e (mobile WiMAX) channel. The paper concentrates on the trade-offs in implementing the scheme, showing that exact calculation of the redundant data has the potential to reduce the forward error correction bit-rate overhead. To reduce delay, an appropriate compression rate should also be selected. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137646 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137645&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijp%2F2011%2F821045%2F Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) particles were synthesized by hydrothermal treatment and nanoporous thin films were prepared on conducting glass substrates. The structures and morphologies of the samples were examined with X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Significant absorbance spectra emerged in visible region which indicated the efficient sensitization of Bi4Ti3O12 with N3 dye. Surface photovoltaic properties of the samples were investigated by surface photovoltage. The results further indicate that N3 can extend the photovoltaic response range of Bi4Ti3O12 nanoparticles to the visible region, which shows potential application in dye-sensitized solar cell. As a working electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), the overall efficiency reached 0.48% after Ti... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137645 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137644&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Fastro%2F2011%2F806549%2F We continue the presentation of an alternative cosmology based on conformal gravity, following our kinematical approach to the subject introduced in a recent paper. In line with the assumptions of our model, which proposes a closed-form expression for the cosmic scale factor R(t), we revise the Hubble and deceleration parameters and introduce modified cosmological distances, analyzing in particular the case of the luminosity distance. Our kinematical conformal cosmology is then able to explain the anomalous acceleration of the Pioneer spacecraft, as due to a local region of gravitational blueshift. From the reported data of the Pioneer anomaly, we also compute the current value of our first fundamental parameter, γ0=1.94×10−28 cm−1, in line with the origi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137644 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137643&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Foncology%2F2011%2F405656%2F Nanocomposition comprised of interleukin-2 in suboptimal noneffective concentration and β-cyclodextrin was studied in vitro. This preparation as well as interleukin-2 in optimal concentration was shown to increase natural killer activity to K-562 cells and cytotoxicity of activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) against PC-3 and DU 145 cells. At the same time β-cyclodextrin or interleukin-2 in equimolar concentrations did not influence the spontaneous killer activity of PBMC. This combination of cyclodextrin + interleukin-2 led to the decrease of interleukin-2 effective concentration by an order. This phenomenon could be explained by cyclodextrins ability to promote the formation of nanoparticles with drugs, which results in enhancing their water solubility and bioa... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137643 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137642&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Fnanotechnology%2F2011%2F385480%2F In this study, through screening of common bacteria, we report extracellular biosynthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles by the reduction of aqueous Ag+ using Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, and Streptococcus thermophilus ESh1 as potential candidates for the rapid synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The culture supernatant of silver nanoparticles biosynthesis by reduction of silver ion coming in contact with the cell filtrate was fast and was formed within few minutes. UV-visible spectrum of the aqueous media obtained from the above bacteria containing silver ion showed a peak around 420 nm corresponding to the plasmon absorbance of silver nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs showed formation of well-dispersed silver nanoparticl... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137642 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137641&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fisrn%2Falgebra%2F2011%2F868096%2F It is established that degree 2|A|+1 of irreducible complex linear group with the group A of cosimple automorphisms of odd order is a prime number and proved that if degree 2|H|+1 of π-solvable irreducible complex linear group G with a π-Hall TI-subgroup H is not a prime power, then H is Abelian and normal in G. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137641 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137640&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijmms%2F2011%2F493531%2F The author obtained new generalizations and refinements of some inequalities based on differentiable s-convex mappings in the second sense. Also, some applications to special means of real numbers are given. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137640 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137639&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijso%2F2011%2F715623%2F Conclusion. We recommend TJ-43 administration in patients undergoing DFP chemotherapy. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137639 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5137638&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Famp%2F2011%2F983678%2F J. C. Maxwell derived formulae for the calculation of current density and current in a cylindrical conductor supplied with variable current. In the 1950s K. Simonyi published a method for calculating current density in a cylindrical conductor made up of two conductors, cylindrical and tubular, of different resistivities. The present paper proves that Simonyi's result is incorrect. The main attention is devoted to the method of calculating current density in a tubular conductor made up of tubular conductors of different resistivities. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5137638 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:37:48 +0100 5137638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4516595&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F372423.html This study was aimed to investigate whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can modulate local cerebral inflammation in ischemic stroke. Rats were subjected to ischemia by occluding the right middle cerebral artery (MCAO) for 2 hours. Rats were randomized as control, BDNF, and antibody groups. The local inflammation was evaluated on cellular, cytokine, and transcription factor levels with immunofluorescence, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time qPCR, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay, respectively. Exogenous BDNF significantly improved motor-sensory, sensorimotor function, and vestibulomotor function, while BDNF did not decrease the infarct volume. Exogenous BDNF increased the number of both activated and phagocytotic microglia in brain. BDNF upregulated interleukin... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4516595 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:15:34 +0100 4516595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501040&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2011%2F670613.html This study was aimed to investigate the effect of NF-κB activity on the seizure susceptibility, brain damage, and P-gp expression in kainic acid- (KA-) induced seizure rats. Male SD rats were divided into saline control group (NS group), KA induced epilepsy group (EP group), and epilepsy group intervened with NF-κB inhibitor-pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate salt (PDTC group) or with dexamethasone (DEX group). No seizures were observed in the rats of NS group. Compared with NS group, increased P-gp expression and NF-κB activation in the rat brain of the EP group were observed after KA micro-injection. Both PDTC and DEX pre-treatment significantly increased the latency to grade III or V seizure onset compared to EP group but failed to show neuron-protective effect as the number ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501040 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:05:11 +0100 4501040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501039&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F704941.html Human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells recognise pyrophosphate-based antigens (phosphoantigens) and have multiple functions in innate and adaptive immunity, including a unique ability to activate other cells of the immune system. We used flow cytometry and ELISA to define the early cytokine profiles of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells stimulated in vitro with isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2 enyl pyrophosphate (HMB-PP) in the absence and presence of IL-2 and IL-15. We show that fresh Vγ9Vδ2 T cells produce interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) within 4 hours of stimulation with phosphoantigen, but neither IL-10, IL-13, nor IL-17 was detectable up to 72 hours under these conditions. Cytokine production was not inf... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501039 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:05:11 +0100 4501039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501038&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F858735.html We investigated the effects of apocynin on high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced insulin resistance in C57BL/6 mice. After 12 weeks of HFD, the mice that exhibited insulin resistance then received 5 weeks of apocynin (2.4 g/L, in water). Following apocynin treatment, fasting glucose, insulin, and glucose tolerance test showed significant improvement in insulin sensitivity in HFD-fed mice. We demonstrated that serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leptin were remarkably reduced with apocynin treatment. We also found that mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the liver and mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, and leptin in adipose tissue were suppressed by apocynin. Furthermore, the... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501038 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:05:11 +0100 4501038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4472736&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F380937.html In conclusion, preventive, but not curative, celecoxib treatment promoted a striking inhibitory effect on bladder cancer development, reinforcing the potential role of chemopreventive strategies based on cyclooxygenase 2 inhibition. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4472736 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:45:12 +0100 4472736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4472735&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F847632.html This study demonstrated that salivary IFN-γ, TNF-α, and sTNFR-2 can be detectable in ELP patients and decreased significantly after treatment with prednisone, which may reveal the possibility of using these disease-related biomarkers in diagnosis and monitoring. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4472735 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:45:12 +0100 4472735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4454605&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F380948.html The regulatory functions of glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan (HA) are suggested to be dependent on its molecular weight (MW). Proinflammatory and stimulatory effects are proposed mainly for the low MW HA. However, the complex response of blood phagocytes to HA of different MW is unclear. Herein, the effects of highly purified HA of precisely defined MW (52, 250, and 970 kDa) on human blood phagocytes were tested. All MW HA activated blood phagocytes, including the spontaneous production of ROS, degranulation, and the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha, with low MW HA 52 kDa having the highest potency and high MW HA 970 kDa having the lowest potency. Interestingly, HA inhibited ROS production stimulated by opsonized zymosan particles and, in contrast, potentiated ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4454605 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 23:40:10 +0100 4454605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4449628&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2011%2F253580.html Ethnic differences in adipose tissue distribution may contribute to different chronic disease risks across ethnic groups, and adipokines may mediate the risk. In a cross-sectional study, we examined ethnic differences in adipokines and inflammatory markers as related to body mass index (BMI) among 183 premenopausal women with Caucasian and Asian ancestry. General linear models were used to estimate adjusted mean levels of leptin, adiponectin, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Asian women had significantly lower serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, and CRP than Caucasian participants (P≤.01) across all levels of BMI. Among overweight and obese women, Asians showed a stronger association of CRP with leptin (β=1.34 versus β=0.64) and with adiponectin (β=... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4449628 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:24:47 +0100 4449628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4441647&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2011%2F971502.html Early onset sepsis due to group B streptococcus leads to neonatal morbidity, increased mortality, and long-term neurological deficencies. Interaction between septicemic GBS and confluent monolayers of human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) was analyzed by genome wide expression profiling. In total, 124 genes were differentially expressed (89 upregulated, 35 downregulated) based on a more than 3-fold difference to control HCAEC. Regulated genes are involved in apoptosis, hemostasis, oxidative stress response, infection, and inflammation. Regulation of selected genes and proteins identified in the gene array analysis was confirmed by Real-time RT-PCR assay (granulocyte chemotactic protein 2), ELISA (urokinase, cyclooxygenase 2, granulocyte chemotactic protein 1), and western blotti... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4441647 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 23:03:57 +0100 4441647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4393490&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F723589.html (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4393490 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:11:34 +0100 4393490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4388871&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F130636.html Cardioplegic-induced H/R injury results in cardiomyocytic apoptosis. AMPK has been shown to reduce ER stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR). Whether AMPK activation can attenuate cardiomyocytic apoptosis after cardioplegia-induced H/R injury is unknown. Cardiomyocytes were exposed to simulated ischemia by incubation in a hypoxic chamber with intermittent cold cardioplegia solution infusion at 20-minute intervals and subsequently reoxygenated in a normoxic environment. Various doses of AMPK activators (AICAR or metformin) were given 2 days before H/R injury. The cardiomyocytes were harvested after reoxygenation for subsequent examination. With both AMPK activators, the antiapoptotic genes of ER stress and UPR, the subsequent production of proapoptotic proteins was attenuated, and t... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4388871 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 03:01:53 +0100 4388871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4336914&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F502564.html The objective of this study was to test whether tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ), an Nrf2 inducer, can protect against TBI-induced intestinal inflammatory response and mucosal injury in mice. Adult male ICR mice were randomly divided into three groups: (1) sham + vehicle group, (2) TBI + vehicle group, and (3) TBI + tBHQ group (n=12 per group). Closed head injury was adopted using Hall's weight-dropping method. Intestinal mucosa apoptosis and inflammatory-related factors, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), were investigated at 24 h after TBI. As a result, we found that oral treatment with 1% tBHQ prior to TBI for o... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4336914 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:05:35 +0100 4336914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4308862&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F634145.html Mucosal damage is a common side effect of many cancer treatments, especially radiotherapy and intensive chemotherapy, which often induce bone marrow (BM) suppression. We observed that acetic acid- (AA-) induced mucosal damage in the colon of mice was worsened by simultaneous treatment with irradiation or 5-FU. However, irradiation 14 days prior to the AA treatment augmented the recovery from mucosal damage, suggesting that the recovery from BM suppression had an advantageous effect on the mucosal repair. In addition, BM transplantation also augmented the recovery from AA-induced mucosal damage. We further confirmed that transplanted BM-derived cells, particularly F4/80+Gr1+ “inflammatory” monocytes (Subset 1), accumulated in the damaged mucosal area in the early healing pha... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4308862 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 23:18:55 +0100 4308862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4304657&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F425191.html HDL, through sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), exerts direct cardioprotective effects on ischemic myocardium. It remains unclear whether other HDL-associated sphingophospholipids have similar effects. We therefore examined if HDL-associated sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) reduces infarct size in a mouse model of transient myocardial ischemia/reperfusion. Intravenously administered SPC dose-dependently reduced infarct size after 30 minutes of myocardial ischemia and 24 hours reperfusion compared to controls. Infarct size was also reduced by postischemic, therapeutical administration of SPC. Immunohistochemistry revealed reduced polymorphonuclear neutrophil recruitment to the infarcted area after SPC treatment, and apoptosis was attenuated as measured by TUNEL. In vitro, SPC inhibited leukocy... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4304657 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:48:10 +0100 4304657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300153&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F204831.html Conclusions. We conclude that lung cell injury in meconium aspiration is maily from meconium itself. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300153 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 07:38:13 +0100 4300153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292909&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F938408.html In this study, we assessed the serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, and ghrelin, in association with the measurements of body composition, in 15 female patients with various autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, primary Sjögren's syndrome, sarcoidosis, mixed connective tissue disease, vasculitis, CREST syndrome, and polymyositis) and in 15 healthy female controls. There were no statistically significant differences between the patients and controls with regard to serum leptin, serum ghrelin, global fat mass, adiposity, and fat mass in the android or gynoid regions, whereas serum adiponectin levels were higher in patients than controls (16.3±1.6 μg/mL versus 9.7±0.6 μg/mL; P=.01). As adiponectin is known to exhibit potent anti-... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292909 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292908&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F364290.html In lymphocytes (LY), the well-documented antiproliferative effects of IFN-α are associated with inhibition of protein synthesis, decreased amino acid incorporation, and cell cycle arrest. However, the effects of this cytokine on the metabolism of glucose and glutamine in these cells have not been well investigated. Thus, mesenteric and spleen LY of male Wistar rats were cultured in the presence or absence of IFN-α, and the changes on glucose and glutamine metabolisms were investigated. The reduced proliferation of mesenteric LY was accompanied by a reduction in glucose total consumption (35%), aerobic glucose metabolism (55%), maximal activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (49%), citrate synthase activity (34%), total glutamine consumption (30%), ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292908 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292907&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F171023.html Aging is associated with low-grade inflammation. The benefits of regular exercise for the elderly are well established, whereas less is known about the impact of low-intensity resistance exercise on low-grade inflammation in the elderly. Twenty-one elderly women (mean age ± SD, 85.0 ± 4.5 years) participated in 12 weeks of resistance exercise training. Muscle thickness and circulating levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), heat shock protein (HSP)70, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1), insulin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured before and after the exercise training. Training reduced the circulating levels of CRP, SAA (P<.... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292907 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292906&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F403830.html Arsenic has been associated with multiple harmful effects at the cellular level. Indirectly these defects could be related to impairment of the integrity of the immune system, in particular in lymphoid population. To characterize the effect of Arsenic on redox status on this population, copper smelter workers and arsenic unexposed donors were recruited for this study. We analyzed urine samples and lymphocyte enriched fractions from donors to determinate arsenic levels and lymphocyte proliferation. Moreover, we studied the presence of oxidative markers MDA, vitamin E and SOD activity in donor plasma. Here we demonstrated that in human beings exposed to high arsenic concentrations, lymphocyte MDA and arsenic urinary levels... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292906 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292905&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F908649.html Conclusion. Preeclamptic women remain under a status of increased inflammatory stress up to 12-14 weeks postpartum despite the fact that all the other signs of preeclampsia are resolved. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292905 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4292904&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F804298.html Keishibukuryogan (KBG) is one of the traditional herbal formulations widely administered to patients with blood stagnation for improving blood circulation; currently, it is the most frequently prescribed medicine in Japan. KBG has been reported to improve conjunctional microcirculation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of KBG and paeoniflorin, a bioactive compound of KBG, in inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines using human dermal microvessel endothelial cells (HDMECs). The authors observed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 1 μg/mL) stimulated the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in HDMECs. KBG treatment (10 mg/mL) significantly suppressed the mRNA levels of migration inhibitory factor (MIF), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis fa... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4292904 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 02:13:14 +0100 4292904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277304&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F173498.html Potential links between metabolic derangements and adipose tissue (AT) inflammation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are unexplored. We investigated AT expressions of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, CD68 (macrophage cell surface receptor), caspase-3, and Bax, and their relationships to the metabolic phenotype in nine cachectic, 12 normal-weight, 12 overweight, and 11 obese patients with COPD (age 62.3±7.2 years). With increasing body mass index, increases in AT expressions of IL-6, TNF-α, and CD68 were observed (P<.001; P=.005; P<.001, resp.), in association with reduced insulin sensitivity (P<.001). No differences were observed between cachectic and normal-weight patients in AT expressions of inflamm... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277304 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 01:57:44 +0100 4277304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277303&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F436145.html Liver grafts suffer from unavoidable injury due to ischemia and manipulation before implantation. Danger signals such as high-mobility group box -1(HMGB1) and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) play a pivotal role in the immune response. We characterized the kinetics of their release into the effluent during cold/warm ischemia and additional manipulation-induced mechanical damage. Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship between HMGB1/MIF release and ischemic/mechanical damage. Liver enzymes and protein in the effluent increased with increasing ischemia time. HMGB1/MIF- release correlated with the extent of hepatocellular injury. With increasing ischemia time and damage, HMGB1 was translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasma as indicated by weak nuclear and strong cytoplasmi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277303 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 01:57:44 +0100 4277303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4271886&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F263914.html We summarize recent findings linking inflammatory hypoxia to chromatin modifications, in particular to repressive histone signatures. We focus on the role of Hypoxia-Induced Factor-1 in promoting the activity of specific histone demethylases thus deeply modifying chromatin configuration. The consequences of these changes are depicted in terms of gene expression and cellular phenotypes. We finally integrate available data to introduce novel speculations on the relationship between inflammation, histones, and DNA function and integrity. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4271886 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:24:48 +0100 4271886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4252463&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F685903.html Conclusion. These findings have indicated that eradication of H. pylori infection may decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4252463 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:10:07 +0100 4252463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4229985&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F751313.html Conclusion. Ivabradine inhibits chemokine-induced migration of CD4-positive lymphocytes. Given the crucial importance of chemokine-induced T-cell migration in early atherogenesis, ivabradine may be a promising tool to modulate this effect. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4229985 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 19:43:41 +0100 4229985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4212654&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F143026.html This study has established inverse correlation of the increase of Th1/Th2 immunity and the decline of HBV DNA load in chronic HBV patients during adefovir dipivoxil treatment. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4212654 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:39:06 +0100 4212654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4207126&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F490406.html Conclusions. TLR and RAGE expression and their ligands, signaling, and functional activation are increased in preterm birth and may contribute to the proinflammatory state. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4207126 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 05:57:50 +0100 4207126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4035560&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F321061.html Conclusion. The airway epithelial and smooth muscle cells maintain a stable airway NO concentration under noninflammatory conditions. This “homeostatic” mechanism is unable to distinguish between NOS derived from the different constitutive NOS isoforms. NOS3 is essential for the expression of NOS2 under inflammatory conditions, while NOS1 expression contributes to allergen-induced goblet cell metaplasia. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4035560 Wed, 06 Oct 2010 21:17:47 +0100 4035560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4030268&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F182958.html Members of the TNF superfamily participate in kidney disease. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and Fas ligand regulate renal cell survival and inflammation, and therapeutic targeting improves the outcome of experimental renal injury. TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL and its potential decoy receptor osteoprotegerin are the two most upregulated death-related genes in human diabetic nephropathy. TRAIL activates NF-kappaB in tubular cells and promotes apoptosis in tubular cells and podocytes, especially in a high-glucose environment. By contrast, osteoprotegerin plays a protective role against TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Another family member, TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK induces inflammation and tubular cell death or proliferation, depending on the microenvironment. While TNF... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4030268 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:50:29 +0100 4030268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4026758&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F652098.html Conclusions. These data demonstrate that the p110α and β isoforms of class IA PI3K are both required for the proinflammatory response to flagellin. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4026758 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 06:39:58 +0100 4026758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4017492&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F398026.html We studied the effect of food restriction, overfeeding, and normofeeding on cachexia, inflammatory and metabolic parameters, and insulin sensitivity in chronic adjuvant arthritis (AA) in rats. Food restriction during AA increased circulating ghrelin, corticosterone, decreased leptin, and ameliorated arthrogram score and systemic inflammation compared to normofeeding. Overfeeding worsened arthrogram score and systemic inflammation, and led to lipid accumulation in the liver, but not to alterations of adipokine and ghrelin plasma levels relative to normofeeding. Independently of feeding status, AA induced cachexia, in which modulation of mRNA expressions for appetite-regulating neuropeptides (NPY, AgRP, POMC, CART) in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) does not play a primary role. The overexpression... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4017492 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 21:16:06 +0100 4017492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4011335&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F142458.html High-mobility group protein box-1 (HMGB1) is a proinflammatory involved in many inflammatory diseases. However, its roles in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between changes in serum levels of HMGB1 following acute ICH and the severity of stroke as well as the underlying mechanism. Changes in serum levels of HMGB1 in 60 consecutive patients with primary hemispheric ICH within 12 hours of onset of symptoms were determined. The correlation of HMGB1 with disease severity, IL-6, and TNF-α was analyzed. Changes in HMGB1 levels were detected with ELISA and Western blot. Compared with normal controls, patients with ICH had markedly elevated levels of HMGB1, which was significantly correlated with the levels of IL-6 and ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4011335 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 20:09:55 +0100 4011335 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4011334&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F727305.html Interleukin-13 and interferon-γ are important effectors of T-helper cells. Interleukin-13 increases expression of the arachidonic acid-metabolizing enzyme, 15-lipoxygenase-1, in a variety of cell types. 15-lipoxygenase-1 is dramatically elevated in the airways of subjects with asthma. Studies in animals indicate that 15-lipoxygenase-1 contributes to the development of allergic airway inflammation but is protective in some other forms of inflammation. We tested the hypothesis that the ability of interleukin-13 and interferon-γ to counterregulate allergic airway inflammation was potentially mediated by counterregulation of 12/15-lipoxygenase, the mouse ortholog of 15-lipoxygenase-1. The airways of mice were treated with interleukin-13 or interferon-γ one day prior to eac... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4011334 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 20:09:55 +0100 4011334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3992483&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F239126.html (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3992483 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 10:27:10 +0100 3992483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3992482&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F628171.html Leukotrienes (LTs) are potent biological proinflammatory mediators. LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 are more frequently involved in chronic inflammatory responses and exert their actions binding to a cysteinyl-LT 1 (CysLT1) receptor and a cysteinyl-LT 2 (CysLT2) receptor. LTs receptor antagonists available for clinical use demonstrate high-affinity binding to the CysLT1 receptor. In this paper the employment of anti-LTs in allergic cutaneous diseases is analyzed showing that several studies have recently reported a beneficial effects of these agents (montelukast and zafirlukast as well as zileuton) for the treatment of some allergic cutaneous related diseases-like chronic urticaria and atopic eczema although their proper application remains to be established. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3992482 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 10:27:10 +0100 3992482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3992481&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F326580.html To maintain homeostasis under diverse metabolic conditions, it is necessary to coordinate nutrient-sensing pathways with the immune response. This coordination requires a complex relationship between cells, hormones, and cytokines in which inflammatory and metabolic pathways are convergent at multiple levels. Recruitment of macrophages to metabolically compromised tissue is a primary event in which chemokines play a crucial role. However, chemokines may also transmit cell signals that generate multiple responses, most unrelated to chemotaxis, that are involved in different biological processes. We have reviewed the evidence showing that monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1 or CCL2) may have a systemic role in the regulation of metabolism that sometimes is not necessarily linked to the... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3992481 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 10:27:10 +0100 3992481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983137&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F364823.html Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are two chronic skin inflammatory diseases that have so far received a greater attention within the scientific community through different post-genomic approaches; on the contrary, acne, which is undoubtedly one of the most common skin disorders involving inflammatory processes, seems to be still quite neglected under the post-genomic point of view. In this paper, we will review how post-genomic technologies have provided new fundamental tools for the analysis of these three conditions and we will cast light on their potential in addressing future research challenges. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983137 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:59:08 +0100 3983137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983136&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F498980.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are important innate immune receptors for the identification and clearance of invading pathogens. Twelve TLRs that recognize various conserved components of microorganisms are currently known. Among these, the endosomal TLRs 3, 7/8, and 9 recognize dsRNA, ssRNA, and CpG DNA, respectively. Nucleic acid-sensing TLRs, TLR 7 in particular, have been implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and are thought to exacerbate disease pathology. Activation of these TLRs results in the production of inflammatory cytokines and type I interferon. Genome-wide association studies, single nucleotide polymorphism analyses as well as experimental mouse models have provided evidence of TLR signaling involvement in SLE and other autoimmune diseases. Since activation of these r... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983136 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:59:08 +0100 3983136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3972323&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F581837.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) belong to a class of molecules known as pattern recognition receptors, and they are part of the innate immune system, although they modulate mechanisms that impact the development of adaptive immune responses. Several studies have shown that TLRs, and their intracellular signalling components, constitute an important cellular pathway mediating the inflammatory process. Moreover, their critical role in the regulation of tissue injury and wound healing process as well as in the regulation of apoptosis is well established. However, interest in the role of these receptors in cancer development and progression has been increasing over the last years. TLRs are likely candidates to mediate effects of the innate immune system within the tumour microenvironment. A rapidly... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3972323 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 08:32:43 +0100 3972323 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3942150&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F473540.html The adipocyte-derived cytokine leptin was implicated to link inflammation and metabolic alterations. We investigated the potential role of leptin components in critically ill patients, because systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hyperglycemia are common features of critical illness. Upon admission to Medical Intensive Care Unit (ICU), free leptin and soluble leptin-receptor serum concentrations were determined in 137 critically ill patients (95 with sepsis, 42 without sepsis) and 26 healthy controls. Serum leptin or leptin-receptor did not differ between patients or controls and were independent of sepsis. However, serum leptin was closely associated with obesity and diabetes and clearly correlated with markers of metabolism and liver function. Leptin-receptor was an unfavourabl... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3942150 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:51:04 +0100 3942150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3898767&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F546826.html Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a common and severe complication in heterogeneous diseases affecting the posterior segment of the eye, the most frequent being represented by age-related macular degeneration. Although the term may suggest just a vascular pathological condition, CNV is more properly definable as an aberrant tissue invasion of endothelial and inflammatory cells, in which both angiogenesis and inflammation are involved. Experimental and clinical evidences show that vascular endothelial growth factor is a key signal in promoting angiogenesis. However, many other molecules, distinctive of the inflammatory response, act as neovascular activators in CNV. These include fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor, tumor necrosis factor, interleukins, and complement. T... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3898767 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:47:56 +0100 3898767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3898766&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F858176.html Multiple factors are involved in acne pathogenesis, and sebum secretion is one of the main ones. The role sebum plays in acne development has not been completely elucidated yet; however, increasing amounts of data seem to confirm the presence of alterations in sebum from acne patients. Altered ratio between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids has been indicated as an important feature to be considered in addition to the altered amount of specific fatty acids such as linoleic acid. Furthermore, particular attention has been focused on squalene peroxide that seems to be able to induce an inflammatory response beyond cytotoxicity and comedones formation. Moreover, recent data suggest that lipid mediators are able to interfere with sebocytes differentiation and sebogenesis through the activa... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3898766 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:47:56 +0100 3898766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3895186&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F238321.html Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) plays an important role in the acute periods of spinal cord injury (SCI), and its expression is related to the inflammation which could cause the disruption of the blood-spinal barrier (BBB). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor that plays a crucial role in cytoprotection against inflammation. The present study investigated the role of Nrf2 in upregulating of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activity, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and MMP-9 after SCI. Wild-type Nrf2 (+/+) and Nrf2-deficient (Nrf (−/−)) mice were subjected to an SCI model induced by the application of vascular clips (force of 10 g) to the dura after a three-level T8-T10 laminectomy. We detected the wet/d... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3895186 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:50:42 +0100 3895186 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3891449&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F437246.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a class of conserved receptors that recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) present in microbes. In humans, at least ten TLRs have been identified, and their recognition targets range from bacterial endotoxins to lipopeptides, DNA, dsRNA, ssRNA, fungal products, and several host factors. Of dermatological interest, these receptors are expressed on several skin cells including keratinocytes, melanocytes, and Langerhans cells. TLRs are essential in identifying microbial products and are known to link the innate and adaptive immune systems. Over the years, there have been significant advances in our understanding of TLRs in skin inflammation, cutaneous malignancies, and defence mechanisms. In this paper, we will describe the association between ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3891449 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:40:39 +0100 3891449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3876010&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F342328.html Inflammatory response is considered the most important period that regulates the entire healing process. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a class of linoleic acid positional and geometric isomers, is well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We hypothesized that dietary CLA supplementation accelerates cutaneous wound healing by regulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. To investigate wound closure rates and inflammatory responses, we used a full-thickness excisional wound model after 2-week treatments with control, 0.5%, or 1% CLA-supplemented diet. Mice fed dietary CLA supplementation had reduced levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. Moreover, the wound closure rate was improved significantly in mice fed a 1% CLA-supplemented ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3876010 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:48:33 +0100 3876010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3868512&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F821940.html CD147, as a receptor for Cyclophilins, is a multifunctional transmembrane glycoprotein. In order to identify genes that are induced by activation of CD147, THP-1 cells were stimulated with Cyclophilin A and differentially expressed genes were detected using PCR-based analysis. Interferon-induced transmembrane 1 (IFITM1) was detected to be induced and it was confirmed by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. CD147-induced expression of IFITM1 was blocked by inhibitors of ERK, PI3K, or NF-κB, but not by inhibitors of p38, JNK, or PKC. IFITM1 appears to mediate inflammatory activation of THP-1 cells since cross-linking of IFITM1 with specific monoclonal antibody against it induced the expression of proinflammatory mediators such as IL-8 and MMP-9. These data indicate that IFITM1 is one of ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3868512 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:03:03 +0100 3868512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3853726&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F149678.abs.html The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of moderate-intensity exercise on plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as markers of low-grade inflammation and endothelial function in diabetic (db/db) mice. Control and db/db mice were divided into sedentary and exercised groups. Aortic endothelial function was evaluated after two- and six-week exercises using a wire myograph. Plasma CRP levels were measured at baseline, and after two and six weeks of exercise. Baseline plasma CRP levels were significantly higher in db/db mice compared to control (P<.05). After two weeks of exercise, aortic endothelial function was significantly improved without affecting body weight or plasma CRP levels. Six weeks of exercise not only i... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3853726 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 08:37:10 +0100 3853726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3826435&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F535918.html Obesity, the most common nutritional disorder in industrialized countries, is associated with an increased mortality and morbidity of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Obesity is primarily considered to be a disorder of energy balance, and it has recently been suggested that some forms of obesity are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. The present paper focuses on the current status of our knowledge regarding chronic inflammation, a link between obesity and CVDs, including heart diseases, vascular disease and atherosclerosis. The paper discusses the methods of body fat evaluation in humans, the endocrinology and distribution of adipose tissue in the genders, the pathophysiology of obesity, the relationship among obesity, inflammation, and CVD, and the adipose tissue-derived cytokin... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3826435 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 07:38:27 +0100 3826435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3826434&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F985614.html Conclusions. Proinflammatory/~oxidative and anti-inflammatory/~oxidative agents show a high correlation in order to maintain a redox homeostasis and to avoid the harmful effects of an excessive inflammatory/oxidative response. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3826434 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 07:38:27 +0100 3826434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3815788&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F748218.html Conclusions. The increased expression of TLR4 and its downstream signal transduction moleculesMyD88, NF-κB p65 indicate the potential role of pathway in the pathogenesis of acute anterior uveitis (AAU). (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3815788 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 07:36:59 +0100 3815788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3815787&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F861949.html The skin is permanently exposed to physical, chemical, and biological aggression by the environment. In addition, acute and chronic inflammatory events taking place in the skin are accompanied by abnormal release of pro-oxidative mediators. In this paper, we will briefly overview the homeostatic systems active in the skin to maintain the redox balance and also to counteract abnormal oxidative stress. We will concentrate on the evidence that a local and/or systemic redox dysregulation accompanies the chronic inflammatory disorder events associated to psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. We will also discuss the fact that several well-established treatments for the therapy of chronic inflammatory skin disorders are based on the application of strong physical or chemical oxid... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3815787 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 07:36:59 +0100 3815787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3812115&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F149678.html The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of moderate-intensity exercise on plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as markers of low-grade inflammation and endothelial function in diabetic (db/db) mice. Control and db/db mice were divided into sedentary and exercised groups. Aortic endothelial function was evaluated after two- and six-week exercises using a wire myograph. Plasma CRP levels were measured at baseline, and after two and six weeks of exercise. Baseline plasma CRP levels were significantly higher in db/db mice compared to control (P<.05). After two weeks of exercise, aortic endothelial function was significantly improved without affecting body weight or plasma CRP levels. Six weeks of exercise not only i... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3812115 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:33:53 +0100 3812115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3794018&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F373878.html Biliary innate immunity is involved in the pathogenesis of cholangiopathies in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and biliary atresia. Biliary epithelial cells possess an innate immune system consisting of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family and recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Tolerance to bacterial PAMPs such as lipopolysaccharides is also important to maintain homeostasis in the biliary tree, but tolerance to double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is not found. In PBC, CD4-positive Th17 cells characterized by the secretion of IL-17 are implicated in the chronic inflammation of bile ducts and the presence of Th17 cells around bile ducts is causally associated with the biliary innate immune responses to PAMPs. Moreover, a negative regulator of intracellular TLR si... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3794018 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 07:30:03 +0100 3794018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3786021&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F497987.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are known to be expressed by innate immune response cells and to play a critical role in their activation against foreign pathogens. It was recently suggested that TLRs have an important role in the crosstalk between neurons and glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). TLR signaling was reported to be associated with a yin-yang effect in the CNS. While TLR signaling was linked to neurogenesis, it was also found to be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. This paper will focus on TLR signaling in glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, prion diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Understanding the pattern of TLR signaling in the glial cells may lead to the identificatio... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3786021 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 07:26:20 +0100 3786021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3771512&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F535612.html Psoriasis is a common disease with the population prevalence ranging from 2% to 3%. Its prevalence in the population is affected by genetic, environmental, viral, infectious, immunological, biochemical, endocrinological, and psychological factors, as well as alcohol and drug abuse. In the recent years, psoriasis has been recognised as a systemic disease associated with numerous multiorgan abnormalities and complications. Dyslipidemia is one of comorbidities in psoriatic patients. Lipid metabolism studies in psoriasis have been started at the beginning of the 20th century and are concentrated on skin surface lipids, stratum corneum lipids and epidermal phospholipids, serum lipids, dermal low-density lipoproteins in the psoriatic skin, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and correlati... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3771512 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 07:27:50 +0100 3771512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3771511&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F951210.html Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) develops in relation to many environmental factors. In our opinion, it is more important to investigate the effect of melatonin on the environmental- related SLE. In the present study, 0.5 ml pristane were used to induce SLE in female BALB/c mice. Melatonin (0.01, 0.1, 1.0 mg/kg) was orally administered immediately after pristane-injection for 24 weeks. IgM anti ssDNA and histone antibodies were detected after 0, 1, 2, 4, 8 weeks pristane injection. The levels of IL-2, IL-6 and IL-13 were detected after 24 weeks. Renal lesions were also observed. The results showed that melatonin antagonized the increasing levels of IgM anti ssDNA and histone autoantibodies. Melatonin could also decrease the IL-6 and IL-13 production and increase the IL-2 pr... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3771511 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 07:27:50 +0100 3771511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762709&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F567351.abs.html The IL-1R/TLR family has been receiving considerable attention as potential regulators of inflammation through their ability to act as either activators or suppressors of inflammation. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, allergic inflammation, elevated serum total, allergen-specific IgE levels, and increased Th2 cytokine production. The discovery that the IL-1RI–IL-1 and ST2–IL-33 pathways are crucial for allergic inflammation has raised interest in these receptors as potential targets for developing new therapeutic strategies for bronchial asthma. This paper discusses the current use of neutralizing mAb or soluble receptor constructs to deplete cytokines, the use of neutralizing mAb or recombinant receptor antagonists to bl... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762709 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 07:26:06 +0100 3762709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3753221&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F289645.html The increasing incidence of obesity and the metabolic syndrome is disturbing. The activation of inflammatory pathways, used normally as host defence, reminds the seriousness of this condition. There is probably more than one cause for activation of inflammation. Apparently, metabolic overload evokes stress reactions, such as oxidative, inflammatory, organelle and cell hypertrophy, generating vicious cycles. Adipocyte hypertrophy, through physical reasons, facilitates cell rupture, what will evoke an inflammatory reaction. Inability of adipose tissue development to engulf incoming fat leads to deposition in other organs, mainly in the liver, with consequences on insulin resistance. The oxidative stress which accompanies feeding, particularly when there is excessive ingestion of fat and/or o... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3753221 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:22:15 +0100 3753221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3749610&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F672395.html Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) include endogenous intracellular molecules released by activated or necrotic cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules that are upregulated upon injury or degraded following tissue damage. DAMPs are vital danger signals that alert our immune system to tissue damage upon both infectious and sterile insult. DAMP activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) induces inflammatory gene expression to mediate tissue repair. However, DAMPs have also been implicated in diseases where excessive inflammation plays a key role in pathogenesis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), cancer, and atherosclerosis. TLR activation by DAMPs may initiate positive feedback loops where increasing tissue damage perpetuates pro-inflammatory responses leading to chronic in... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3749610 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 07:21:58 +0100 3749610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3749609&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F916425.html Acute lung injury (ALI) frequently occurs in traumatic patients and serves as an important component of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Hemorrhagic shock (HS) that results from major trauma promotes the development of SIRS and ALI by priming the innate immune system for an exaggerated inflammatory response. Recent studies have reported that the mechanism underlying the priming of pulmonary inflammation involves the complicated cross-talk between Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and interactions between neutrophils (PMNs) and alveolar macrophages (AMϕ) as well as endothelial cells (ECs), in which reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the key mediator. This paper summarizes some novel mechanisms underlying HS-primed lung inflammation focusing on the role of TLRs and ROS, and the... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3749609 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 07:21:58 +0100 3749609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746271&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F230450.html A series of well-known, purified antioxidants including: Resveratrol, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), Genistein, Rosavin, Puerarin, Chlorogenic Acid, Propolis and two newer unexplored isoflavonoids isolated from Maclura pomifera (Osage Orange) including Pomiferin and Osajin, were applied to Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts (NHDF) and Normal Human Dermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) for 24 hours. The resulting treated cells were then examined using human gene microarrays supplied by Agilent. These chips typically have somewhere on the order of 30,000 individual genes which are expressed in the human genome. For our study, this large list of genes was reduced to 205 principal genes thought to be important for skin and each individual ingredient was examined for its influence on the culled list of ge... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746271 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:26:57 +0100 3746271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3732664&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F475139.html Here, we studied in vitro cytokine production by splenic macrophages obtained from young and aged BALB/c wild type (WT) and IL-6 knockout (IL-6 KO) mice. Relative to macrophages obtained from young WT mice given lipopolysaccharide (LPS), those from aged WT mice had decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines. In contrast, when compared to macrophages from young IL-6 KO mice, LPS stimulation yielded higher levels of these cytokines by cells from aged IL-6 KO mice. Aging or IL-6 deficiency did not affected the percentage of F4/80+ macrophages, or the surface expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and components of the IL-6 receptor. Overall, our results indicate that IL-6 plays a role in regulating the age-related defects in macrophages through alteration of proinflammatory cytokine... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3732664 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 07:30:17 +0100 3732664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726316&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F567351.html The IL-1R/TLR family has been receiving considerable attention as potential regulators of inflammation through their ability to act as either activators or suppressors of inflammation. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, allergic inflammation, elevated serum total, allergen-specific IgE levels, and increased Th2 cytokine production. The discovery that the IL-1RI–IL-1 and ST2–IL-33 pathways are crucial for allergic inflammation has raised interest in these receptors as potential targets for developing new therapeutic strategies for bronchial asthma. This paper discusses the current use of neutralizing mAb or soluble receptor constructs to deplete cytokines, the use of neutralizing mAb or recombinant receptor antagonists to bl... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726316 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 07:24:43 +0100 3726316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726315&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F708713.html In this study, the immune responses of macrophages from A/J mice against M. leprae were compared to those of macrophages from C57BL/6 mice. Infection with M. leprae induced high levels of TNF-α production and NF-κB activation in A/J and C57BL/6 macrophages. Caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion were also induced in both macrophages. However, macrophages from A/J mice exhibited reduced caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion compared to C57BL/6 macrophages. These results suggest that NLR family proteins may have a role in the innate immune response to M. leprae. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726315 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 07:24:43 +0100 3726315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724318&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F413238.html This report is a literature review pertaining to wound healing and is focused on TGF-β and PGE2. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724318 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:20:48 +0100 3724318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724317&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F610418.html Although orthodox medicine has provided a variety of topical anti-infective agents, some of them have become scarcely effective owing to antibiotic- and chemotherapeutic-resistant pathogens. For more than a century, ozone has been known to be an excellent disinfectant that nevertheless had to be used with caution for its oxidizing properties. Only during the last decade it has been learned how to tame its great reactivity by precisely dosing its concentration and permanently incorporating the gas into triglycerides where gaseous ozone chemically reacts with unsaturated substrates leading to therapeutically active ozonated derivatives. Today the stability and efficacy of the ozonated oils have been already demonstrated, but owing to a plethora of commercial products, the present paper aims ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724317 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:20:48 +0100 3724317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3713464&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F350304.html Cell-mediated immunity is considered to be normal in Darier's Disease (DD), an inherited skin disorder complicated by skin infections. To date, there are no investigations on the local inflammatory infiltrate in DD skin lesions. In this immunohistochemical study we characterized and quantified it, making comparisons with two other inflammatory skin disorders, that is, pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and lichen ruber planus (LRP), and with the normal skin (NSk). We found a significant (P<.05) decrease of CD1a+ Langerhans cells (LCs) in DD, compared to PV, LRP, and NSk, and of CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), compared to PV and LRP. We hypothesize that the genetic damage of keratinocytes might result in a loss of some subsets of dendritic cells and, consequently, in an impaired... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3713464 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:22:25 +0100 3713464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3713463&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F802078.html Obesity is an energy-rich condition associated with overnutrition, which impairs systemic metabolic homeostasis and elicits stress. It also activates an inflammatory process in metabolically active sites, such as white adipose tissue, liver, and immune cells. As consequence, increased circulating levels of proinflammatory cytokines, hormone-like molecules, and other inflammatory markers are induced. This determines a chronic active inflammatory condition, associated with the development of the obesity-related inflammatory diseases. This paper describes the role of adipose tissue and the biological effects of many adipokines in these diseases. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3713463 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:22:25 +0100 3713463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3709919&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F627803.html In conclusion, the results of this study show that TMJ bone tissue resorption can be predicted by TMJ crepitus and glutamate in early RA. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3709919 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:23:02 +0100 3709919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3709918&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F784343.html Obese leptin-deficient ob/ob mice exhibit a low-grade chronic inflammation together with a low muscle mass. Our aim was to analyze the changes in muscle expression levels of genes related to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in leptin deficiency and to identify the effect of in vivo leptin administration. Ob/ob mice were divided in three groups as follows: control ob/ob, leptin-treated ob/ob (1 mg/kg/d) and leptin pair-fed ob/ob mice. Gastrocnemius weight was lower in control ob/ob than in wild type mice (P<.01) exhibiting an increase after leptin treatment compared to control and pair-fed (P<.01) ob/ob animals. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, markers of oxidative stress, were higher in serum (P<.01) and gastrocnemius (P=.05) of control ob/ob ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3709918 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:23:02 +0100 3709918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3702756&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F174341.html Visceral obesity is a relevant pathological condition closely associated with high risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease including myocardial infarction and stroke. The increased vascular risk is related also to peculiar dysfunction in the endocrine activity of adipose tissue responsible of vascular impairment (including endothelial dysfunction), prothrombotic tendency, and low-grade chronic inflammation. In particular, increased synthesis and release of different cytokines, including interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and adipokines—such as leptin—have been reported as associated with future cardiovascular events. Since vascular cell dysfunction plays a major role in the atherothrombotic complications in central obesity, this paper aims at f... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3702756 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 07:19:45 +0100 3702756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3694719&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F393946.html Inflammation drives atherosclerosis. Both immune and resident vascular cell types are involved in the development of atherosclerotic lesions. The phenotype and function of these cells are key in determining the development of lesions. Toll-like receptors are the most characterised innate immune receptors and are responsible for the recognition of exogenous conserved motifs on pathogens, and, potentially, some endogenous molecules. Both endogenous and exogenous TLR agonists may be present in atherosclerotic plaques. Engagement of toll-like receptors on immune and resident vascular cells can affect atherogenesis as signalling downstream of these receptors can elicit proinflammatory cytokine release, lipid uptake, and foam cell formation and activate cells of the adaptive immune system. In th... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3694719 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 07:23:36 +0100 3694719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683035&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F592760.html In conclusion, chronic sitagliptin treatment corrected the glycaemic dysmetabolism, hypertriglyceridaemia, inflammation, and hypertension, reduced the severity of the histopathological lesions of pancreatic endocrine and exocrine tissues, together with a favourable redox status, which might be a further advantage in the management of diabetes and its proatherogenic comorbidities. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683035 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 07:17:39 +0100 3683035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683034&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F194896.html Conclusions. Rhizoma coptidis extract inhibits LPS-induced MCP-1/CCL2 production in vitro via an AP-1 and NFκB-dependent pathway. Anti-inflammatory action of the extract is mediated mainly by its alkaloid compound berberine. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683034 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 07:17:39 +0100 3683034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683033&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F745724.html Conclusions. GM-CSF treatment for sepsis-induced immunosuppression induces a moderate but only transient increase in systemic HMGB-1 levels. HMGB-1 levels should not be used for monitoring of monocytic function in immunostimulatory trials as they do not adequately portray contemporary changes in monocytic immunity. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683033 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 07:17:39 +0100 3683033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3679625&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F536478.html Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a potent trigger for inflammatory immune responses. Without tight regulation their activation could lead to pathology, so it is imperative to extend our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms that govern TLR expression and function. One family of immunoregulatory proteins which can provide a balancing effect on TLR activity are the Leukocyte Ig-like receptors (LILRs), which act as innate immune receptors for self-proteins. Here we describe the LILR family, their inhibitory effect on TLR activity in cells of the monocytic lineage, their signalling pathway, and their antimicrobial effects during bacterial infection. Agents have already been identified which enhances or inhibits LILR activity raising the future possibility that modulation of LILR function co... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3679625 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:08:30 +0100 3679625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3678418&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F813610.html Conclusion. MEC and IL-8 are major factors for neutrophil recruitment in nonallergic CRS. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3678418 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 07:10:11 +0100 3678418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665400&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F250476.html Conclusion. Circulating CD31+, CD105+, and CD106+ EMPs were significantly elevated in patients with DM. EMPs were the only independent predictors of DM in our study cohort. In addition, the EMP immunophenotype reflected an apoptotic process. Circulating EMPs may provide new options for risk assessment. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665400 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:56:02 +0100 3665400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665399&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F517594.html This study examines the cytokine response and lethality of mice exposed to varying doses of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and their combinations. In vivo, SEB alone induced moderate levels of IL-2 and MCP-1 and all mice survived even with a high dose of SEB (100 μg/mouse). LPS (80 μg/mouse) caused 48% lethality and induced high levels of IL-6 and MCP-1. SEB induced low levels of TNFα, IL-1, IFNγ, MIP-2, and LPS synergized with SEB in the expression of these cytokines and that of IL-6 and MCP-1. Importantly, the synergistic action of SEB and LPS resulted in lethal shock and hypothermia. ANOVA of cytokine levels by survival status of SEB-plus-LPS groups revealed significantly higher levels of TNFα, IL-6, MIP-2, and MCP-1... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665399 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:56:02 +0100 3665399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665398&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F519589.html Conclusions. Upregulation of TLR2/4 expression on PBMC may contribute to the development of postoperative SIRS during perioperative period of LT. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665398 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:56:02 +0100 3665398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665397&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F184328.html In order to establish an infection, viruses need to either suppress or escape from host immune defense systems. Recent immunological research has focused on innate immunity as the first line of host defense, especially pattern recognition molecules such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs), and NOD-like receptors (NLRs). Various microbial components are recognized by their vague and common molecular shapes so-called, pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). PAMPs induce inflammatory reactions mediated by the activation of the transcription factor, NF-κB, and by interferons, which lead to an antiviral immune response. Viruses have the capacity to suppress or escape from this pattern recognition molecule-mediated antimicrobial response in various ways. In ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665397 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:56:02 +0100 3665397 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665396&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F809591.html Conclusions. Our results suggest inhibitory effects of colistin and tobramycin in vitro. There was a clear dependency of neutrophil elastase measurements on the presence of albumin. Clinical studies are needed to investigate potential direct effects of inhaled antibiotics on neutrophil elastase activity in cystic fibrosis airways. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665396 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:56:02 +0100 3665396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662056&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F792393.html Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an important factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease in obesity-related type 2 diabetes. The imbalance in repair and injury (hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia) results in microvascular changes, including apoptosis of microvascular cells, ultimately leading to diabetes related complications. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which the interplay between endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and apoptosis may cause (micro)vascular damage in patients with diabetes mellitus. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662056 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:01:39 +0100 3662056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662055&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F201929.html The variable array of pattern receptor expression in different cells of the innate immune system explains the induction of distinct patterns of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. Peptidoglycan and mannan were strong stimuli in neutrophils, whereas the fungal extract zymosan was the most potent stimulus in monocyte-derived dendritic cells since it induced the production of PGE2, PGD2, and several cytokines including a robust IL-10 response. Zymosan activated κB-binding activity, but inhibition of NF-κB was associated with enhanced IL-10 production. In contrast, treatments acting on CREB (CRE binding protein), including PGE2, showed a direct correlation between CREB activation and IL-10 production. Therefore, in dendritic cells zymosan induces il10 transcription by a CRE-depende... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662055 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:01:39 +0100 3662055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3658483&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F865601.html Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are of special interest as therapeutic agents in the settings of both chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Toll-like receptors (TLR) ligands have been linked with the perpetuation of inflammation in a number of chronic inflammatory diseases due to the permanent exposure of the immune system to TLR-specific stimuli. Therefore, MSCs employed in therapy can be potentially exposed to TLR ligands, which may modulate MSC therapeutic potential in vivo. Recent results demonstrate that MSCs are activated by TLR ligands leading to modulation of the differentiation, migration, proliferation, survival, and immunosuppression capacities. However inconsistent results among authors have been reported suggesting that the source of MSCs, TLR stimuli employed or culture... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3658483 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:11:58 +0100 3658483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3658482&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F748919.html Conclusion. mDCs display an increased cell surface concentration of activation molecules in CAD patients with CAE compared to patients with CAD alone. DC activation may play an important role for CAE development in patients with CAD. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3658482 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:11:58 +0100 3658482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3644154&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F704202.html Ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury refers to the tissue damage which occurs when blood supply returns to tissue after a period of ischemia and is associated with trauma, stroke, myocardial infarction, and solid organ transplantation. Although the cause of this injury is multifactorial, increasing experimental evidence suggests an important role for the innate immune system in initiating the inflammatory cascade leading to detrimental/deleterious changes. The Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) play a central role in innate immunity recognising both pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns and have been implicated in a range of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In this paper, we summarise the current state of knowledge linking TLR2 and TLR4 to I/R injury, including recent studies which ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3644154 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:00:21 +0100 3644154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3640115&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F675320.html Conclusions. Obese OSAS patients have elevated TNF-α levels compared to BMI-matched controls, suggesting a role of OSAS in promoting inflammation, possibly mediated by TNF-a. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3640115 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:01:09 +0100 3640115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3640114&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F642462.html The inflammatory responses in sepsis and hemorrhage remain a major cause of death. Clinically, it is generally accepted that shock in sepsis or hemorrhage differs in its mechanisms. However, the recognition of inflammatory cytokines as a common lethal pathway has become consent. Proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) or high-mobility group box1 (HMGB1) are fanatically released and cause lethal multiorgan dysfunction. Inhibition of these cytokines can prevent the inflammatory responses and organ damage. In seeking potential anti-inflammatory strategies, we reported that ethyl pyruvate and alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (alpha7nAChR) agonists effectively restrained cytokine production to provide therapeutic benefits in both experimental sepsis and hemorrhage. ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3640114 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:01:09 +0100 3640114 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3624736&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F790605.html We aimed to investigate possible alterations in circulating levels of the perinatal stress markers high sensitivity (hs)-CRP, PAI-1, and S100B—probably reflecting brain and adipose tissue inflammation—in intrauterine growth-restricted-(IUGR) and appropriate-for-gestational-age-(AGA) pregnancies, given that these groups differ in fat mass and metabolic mechanisms involving aseptic inflammation. Serum hs-CRP, PAI-1, and S100B levels were measured in 40 mothers, and their 20 AGA and 20 IUGR full-term fetuses and neonates on postnatal days 1 and 4. hs-CRP, PAI-1, and S100B levels did not differ at all time points between AGA and IUGR groups. We conclude that the lack of difference in hs-CRP, PAI-1 and S100B levels, between IUGR and AGA fetuses/neonates—despite the lower bi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3624736 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:56:07 +0100 3624736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3620907&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F682879.html Some evidence indicates that nitric oxide (NO) contributes to inflammation, while other evidence supports the opposite conclusion. To clarify the role of NO in inflammation, we studied carrageenin-induced pleurisy in rats treated with an NO donor (NOC-18), a substrate for NO formation (L-arginine), and/or an NO synthase inhibitor (S-(2-aminoethyl) isothiourea or NG-nitro-L-arginine). We assessed inflammatory cell migration, nitrite/nitrate values, lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory mediators. NOC-18 and L-arginine reduced the migration of inflammatory cells and edema, lowered oxidative stress, and normalized antioxidant enzyme activities. NO synthase inhibitors increased the exudate formation and inflammatory cell number, contributed to oxidative stress, induced an oxidant/antioxidant... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3620907 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:56:44 +0100 3620907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3617388&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F105489.html Conclusion. Leptin blocks the proliferative response to Ang II through NO-dependent mechanisms. The attenuation of this inhibitory effect of leptin in spontaneous hypertension appears to be due to a reduced NO bioavailability in VSMCs. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3617388 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:57:43 +0100 3617388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3613822&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F170153.html Conclusions. Polymorphisms within ALOX12, ALOX5, and ALOX5AP are genetically associated with subclinical atherosclerosis and with biomarkers of disease in families with type 2 diabetes. These results suggest that variants in lipoxygenase pathway genes may have pleiotropic effects on multiple components that determine risk of cardiovascular disease. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3613822 Mon, 31 May 2010 14:53:54 +0100 3613822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3594968&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F367838.html Obesity is associated with a low-grade systemic chronic inflammatory state, characterized by the abnormal production of pro- and anti-inflammatory adipocytokines. It has been found that immune cells such as macrophages can infiltrate adipose tissue and are responsible for the majority of inflammatory cytokine production. Obesity-induced inflammation is considered a potential mechanism linking obesity to its related pathologies, such as insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, type-2 diabetes, and some immune disorders. Therefore, targeting obesity-related inflammatory components may be a useful strategy to prevent or ameliorate the development of such obesity-related diseases. It has been shown that several food components can modulate inflammatory responses in adipose tissue via vario... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3594968 Tue, 25 May 2010 15:08:10 +0100 3594968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3590205&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F513948.html This paper considers the role of putative adipokines that might be involved in the enhanced inflammatory response of human adipose tissue seen in obesity. Inflammatory adipokines [IL-6, IL-10, ACE, TGFβ1, TNFα, IL-1β, PAI-1, and IL-8] plus one anti-inflammatory [IL-10] adipokine were identified whose circulating levels as well as in vitro release by fat are enhanced in obesity and are primarily released by the nonfat cells of human adipose tissue. In contrast, the circulating levels of leptin and FABP-4 are also enhanced in obesity and they are primarily released by fat cells of human adipose tissue. The relative expression of adipokines and other proteins in human omental as compared to subcutaneous adipose tissue as well as their expression in the nonfat as compared ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3590205 Sun, 23 May 2010 14:43:09 +0100 3590205 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3581009&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F219583.html Visceral obesity is coupled to a general low-grade chronic inflammatory state characterized by macrophage activation and inflammatory cytokine production, leading to insulin resistance (IR). The balance between proinflammatory M1 and antiinflammatory M2 macrophage phenotypes within visceral adipose tissue appears to be crucially involved in the development of obesity-associated IR and consequent metabolic abnormalities. The ligand-dependent transcription factors peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) have recently been implicated in the determination of the M1/M2 phenotype. Liver X receptors (LXRs), which form another subgroup of the nuclear receptor superfamily, are also important regulators of proinflammatory cytokine production in macrophages. Disregulation of macrophage-me... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3581009 Thu, 20 May 2010 14:56:38 +0100 3581009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3572983&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F573594.html In this study, we enrolled 43 non-diabetic young depressed males and adapted standard testing procedures to assess glucose metabolism during 4-week hospitalization. Before and after the 4-week antidepressant treatment, participants underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test (FSIGT). Insulin sensitivity (SI), glucose effectiveness (SG), acute insulin response, and disposition index (DI) were estimated using the minimal model method. The plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and adiponectin were measured. The Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM-D) total scores were reduced significantly during the course of treatment. There were no significant changes in the... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3572983 Tue, 18 May 2010 14:57:23 +0100 3572983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3572982&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F986596.html Our immune defense depends on two specialized armed forces. The innate force acts as an alarm mechanism that senses changes in the microenvironment through the recognition of common microbial patterns by Toll-like receptors (TLR) and NOD proteins. It rapidly generates an inflammatory response aimed at neutralizing the intruder at the mucosal checkpoint. The innate arm also communicates this message with more specialized adaptive forces represented by pathogen-specific B cells and T cells. Interestingly, B cells also express some innate sensors, like TLR7 and TLR9, and may respond to bacterial hypomethylated CpG motifs and single-stranded RNA viruses. Intracellular nucleic acid sensing TLRs play an important role in the pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). In this review, we ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3572982 Tue, 18 May 2010 14:57:23 +0100 3572982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3572981&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F359732.html Diabetes and obesity are chronic conditions associated with elevated oxidative/inflammatory activities with a continuum of tissue insults leading to more severe cardiometabolic and renal complications including myocardial infarction and end-stage-renal damage. A common denominator of these chronic conditions is the enhanced the levels of cytokines like tumournecrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL-6), IL-1β and resistin, which in turn activates the c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) and NF-κB pathways, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates insulin resistance, type-2 diabetes and related complications. Emerging evidence indicates that heme oxygenase (HO) inducers are endowed with potent anti-diabetic and insulin sensitizing effects besides their ability to suppres... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3572981 Tue, 18 May 2010 14:57:23 +0100 3572981 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3569513&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F529359.abs.html Cinnamaldehyde (CA) has been known to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Although numerous pharmacological effects have been demonstrated, regulatory effect of CA on the functional activation of monocytes and macrophages has not been fully elucidated yet. To evaluate its monocyte/macrophage-mediated immune responses, macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and monocytes treated with proaggregative antibodies, and extracellular matrix protein fibronectin were employed. CA was able to suppress both the production of nitric oxide (NO) and upregulation of surface levels of costimulatory molecules (CD80 and CD69) and pattern recognition receptors (toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and complement receptor (CR3)). In addition, CA also blocked cell-cell adhesion induced by the ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3569513 Mon, 17 May 2010 15:23:41 +0100 3569513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3569512&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F841343.html The effect of candesartan, an angiotensin-II type-1 receptor antagonist, on the metabolic profile and renal inflammation is unclear. We evaluated this relationship by feeding male lean (LZ) and obese (OZ) Zucker rats chow or chow with candesartan (23.5 mg/kg⋅diet) for 14 weeks (n=6–8/treatment/body type). Candesartan reduced serum triglycerides, plasma creatinine, urine albumin, and renal cortical collagen and glycogen deposition in the OZ. An ELISA-based cytokine array revealed that candesartan normalized elevated renal interleukin (IL) 1-β and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels in OZ. Nonetheless, candesartan impaired glucose tolerance, and did not lower blood insulin or glucose levels. Moreover, renal IL-1α, -2, -4, -6 and -10 tumor necro... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3569512 Mon, 17 May 2010 15:23:41 +0100 3569512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3551633&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F529359.html Cinnamaldehyde (CA) has been known to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Although numerous pharmacological effects have been demonstrated, regulatory effect of CA on the functional activation of monocytes and macrophages has not been fully elucidated yet. To evaluate its monocyte/macrophage-mediated immune responses, macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and monocytes treated with proaggregative antibodies, and extracellular matrix protein fibronectin were employed. CA was able to suppress both the production of nitric oxide (NO) and upregulation of surface levels of costimulatory molecules (CD80 and CD69) and pattern recognition receptors (toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and complement receptor (CR3)). In addition, CA also blocked cell-cell adhesion induced by the ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3551633 Tue, 11 May 2010 15:22:02 +0100 3551633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546703&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F974694.html Conclusions. We found an increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and a corresponding decrease of anti-inflammatory/regulatory cytokine IL10 in remodeling patients and we concluded that this cytokine imbalance resulted in pro-inflammatory effects which might contribute to the progression of left ventricular remodeling. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546703 Sun, 09 May 2010 14:48:04 +0100 3546703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533117&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F939602.html Conclusions. Higher preoperative levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in aqueous humour may contribute to the development of inflammatory milieu and were associated with worse outcome of glaucoma surgery. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533117 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:01:50 +0100 3533117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533116&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F495416.html This article reviews the roles of peritoneal adipose tissue in chronic peritoneal inflammation under PD and in serosal repair during PD. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533116 Wed, 05 May 2010 15:01:50 +0100 3533116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526217&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F940383.html This study was designed to investigate the interaction between C. parapsilosis and human epithelial cells using monolayer cultures and an engineered human oral mucosa (EHOM). C. parapsilosis was able to adhere to gingival epithelial cells and to adopt the hyphal form in the presence of serum. Interestingly, when cultured onto the engineered human oral mucosa (EHOM), C. parapsilosis formed small biofilm and invaded the connective tissue. Following contact with C. parapsilosis, normal human gingival epithelial cells expressed high levels of Toll-like receptors (TLR)-2, -4, and -6, but not TLR-9 mRNA. The upregulation of TLRs was paralleled by an increase of IL-1β, TNFα, and IFNγ mRNA expression, suggesting the involvement of these cytokines in the defense against infecti... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526217 Mon, 03 May 2010 15:14:22 +0100 3526217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3489993&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F796315.html The tumor suppressor CYLD is a deubiquitinating enzyme that inhibits activation of the NF-κB, which has key roles in inflammation and apoptosis. We hypothesized that CYLD may regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway in cholesteatoma. We conducted immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of CYLD and NF-κB in 16 cases of cholesteatoma and paired cases of retroauricular (RA) skin. In cholesteatoma epithelium, activated NF-κ B expression was significantly higher than in RA skin, whereas CYLD expression was significantly lower in cholesteatoma epithelium than in RA skin (P<.05). Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation was detected between CYLD and activated NF-κB expression in cholesteatoma epithelium (r=-0.630). We found that CYLD reduced and ... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3489993 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:27:02 +0100 3489993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3486095&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F585989.html Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Low-grade systemic inflammation is considered a hallmark of COPD that potentially links COPD to increased rate of systemic manifestations of the disease. Obesity with/without the metabolic syndrome and cachexia represent two poles of metabolic abnormalities that may relate to systemic inflammation. On one hand systemic inflammatory syndrome likely reflects inflammation in the lungs, i.e. results from lung-to plasma spillover of inflammatory mediators. On the other hand, obesity-related hypoxia results in local inflammatory response within adipose tissue per se, and may contribute to elevations in circulatory mediators by spillover from the adipose tissue to the systemic compartment. The exte... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3486095 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:43:48 +0100 3486095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467055&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F568396.html Despite a decrease in mortality over the last decade, sepsis remains the tenth leading causes of death in western countries and one of the most common cause of death in intensive care units. The recent discovery of Toll-like receptors and their downstream signalling pathways allowed us to better understand the pathophysiology of sepsis-related disorders. Particular attention has been paid to Toll-like receptor 4, the receptor for Gram-negative bacteria outer membrane lipopolysaccharide or endotoxin. Since most of the clinical trial targeting single inflammatory cytokine in the treatment of sepsis failed, therapeutic targeting of Toll-like receptor 4, because of its central role, looks promising. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the recent data of various drugs targeting TLR4 expres... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467055 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:21:23 +0100 3467055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467054&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F482950.html Proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), play fundamental roles in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim of this study was to determine if polymorphisms in the TNFα gene are associated with AP. Two polymorphisms located in the promoter region (positions −308 and −238) in TNFα gene were determined using polymerase chain reaction- (PCR-) restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods in 103 patients with AP and 92 healthy controls. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, BMI and smoking. The frequencies of TNFα polymorphisms were both similar in patients with mild or severe pancreatitis, so were in pancrea... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467054 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:21:23 +0100 3467054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3462971&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F293642.html This study was aimed to examine the effects of indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and β-phenylethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), bioactive components present in cruciferous vegetable, on the production of inflammatory mediators, including nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Possible mechanisms of the NO-inhibitory effects were also explored. The results indicated that I3C and PEITC inhibited NO production, and this suppression was associated with decreased production of TNF-α and IL-10 by activated macrophages. In addition, I3C suppressed NO production even after the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein had been produced, but such an inhibitory effect was not obs... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3462971 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 15:19:18 +0100 3462971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3459665&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F823821.html NF-κB comprises a family of transcription factors that are critically involved in various inflammatory processes. In this paper, the role of NF-κB in inflammation and atherosclerosis and the regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway are summarized. The structure, function, and regulation of the NF-κB inhibitors, IκBα and IκBβ, are reviewed. The regulation of NF-κB activity by glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling and IκBα sumoylation is also discussed. This paper focuses on the recently reported regulatory function that adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1) exerts on NF-κB transcriptional activity in macrophages, in which AEBP1 manifests itself as a potent modulator of NF-κB via physical inte... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3459665 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:24:51 +0100 3459665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3457744&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F976024.html The mucosal surface of the female genital tract is a complex biosystem, which provides a barrier against the outside world and participates in both innate and acquired immune defense systems. This mucosal compartment has adapted to a dynamic, non-sterile environment challenged by a variety of antigenic/inflammatory stimuli associated with sexual intercourse and endogenous vaginal microbiota. Rapid innate immune defenses against microbial infection usually involve the recognition of invading pathogens by specific pattern-recognition receptors recently attributed to the family of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). TLRs recognize conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) synthesized by microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses as well as endogenous ligands assoc... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3457744 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:57:38 +0100 3457744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3448134&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F674363.html The members of Toll-like receptor/Interleukin (IL)-1 receptor (TLR/IL-1R) superfamily play a fundamental role in the immune response. These receptors detect microbial components and trigger complex signalling pathways that result in increased expression of multiple inflammatory genes. On the other hand, an aberrant activation of TLR/IL-1R signalling can promote the onset of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, raising the interest in the development of therapeutic strategies for the control of their function. In this review, we illustrate the structural and functional features of TLR/IL-1R proteins and discuss some recent advances in the approaches undertaken to develop anti-inflammatory therapeutic drugs. In particular, we will focus on inhibitors, such as decoy peptides and synthetic mi... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3448134 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:47:38 +0100 3448134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3448133&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F268547.html Artemisia species are a rich source of herbal remedies with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We evaluated PMI-5011, an ethanolic extract of Artemisia dracunculus L., on neuropathy in high-sfat diet-fed mice, a model of prediabetes and obesity developing oxidative stress and proinflammatory changes in peripheral nervous system. C57Bl6/J mice fed high-fat diet for 16 weeks developed obesity, moderate nonfasting hyperglycemia, nerve conduction deficit, thermal and mechanical hypoalgesia, and tactile allodynia. They displayed 12/15-lipoxygenase overexpression, 12(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid accumulation, and nitrosative stress in peripheral nerve and spinal cord. PMI-5011 (500 mgkg-1d-1, 7 weeks) normalized glycemia, alleviated nerve conduction slowing and sensory neuro... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3448133 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:47:38 +0100 3448133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3448132&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F758656.html Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age group and is associated with a higher cardiovascular risk. Obesity, mainly visceral adiposity, is prevalent in patients with PCOS. Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation and raised inflammatory cytokines, both of which are also described in patients with PCOS. In this paper, the potential relationships between fat distribution, adipocyte dysfunction and, altered inflammatory markers in patients with PCOS have been discussed. (Source: Mediators of Inflammation) Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3448132 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:47:38 +0100 3448132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3424087&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F423241.html Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder characterised by chronic inflammation of the airways. The lung manifestations of CF include colonization with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus leading to neutrophil-dominated airway inflammation and tissue damage. Inflammation in the CF lung is initiated by microbial components which activate the innate immune response via Toll-like receptors (TLRs), increasing airway epithelial cell production of proinflammatory mediators such as the neutrophil chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8). Thus modulation of TLR function represents a therapeutic approach for CF. Nicotine is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid. Although it is negatively associated with cigarette smoking and cardiovascular damage, nicotine also has anti-inflammatory propertie... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3424087 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:48:05 +0100 3424087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3419883&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F280464.html Ghrelin, a peptide hormone produced mainly in the stomach, has emerged as an important modulator of the inflammatory responses that are of significance to the maintenance of gastric mucosal integrity. Here, we report on the role of ghrelin in controlling the apoptotic processes induced in gastric mucosal cells by H. pylori lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The countering effect of ghrelin on the LPS-induced mucosal cell apoptosis was associated with the increase in constitutive nitric oxide synthase (cNOS) activity, and the reduction in caspase-3 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS-2). The loss in countering effect of ghrelin on the LPS-induced changes in apoptosis and caspase-3 activity was attained with Src kinase inhibitor, PP2, as well as Akt inhibitor, SH-5, and cNOS inhibitor, L-NAME. M... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3419883 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:18:59 +0100 3419883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3394498&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F568343.html Adipose tissue is an active endocrine organ that secretes various humoral factors (adipokines), and its shift to production of proinflammatory cytokines in obesity likely contributes to the low-level systemic inflammation that may be present in metabolic syndrome-associated chronic pathologies such as atherosclerosis. Leptin is one of the most important hormones secreted by adipocytes, with a variety of physiological roles related to the control of metabolism and energy homeostasis. One of these functions is the connection between nutritional status and immune competence. The adipocyte-derived hormone leptin has been shown to regulate the immune response, innate and adaptive response, both in normal and pathological conditions. The role of leptin in regulating immune response has been asse... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3394498 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:41:28 +0100 3394498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3388866&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F824362.html In this study, human bronchi, freshly isolated human eosinophils, or MBP purified from human eosinophil granules were incubated for studying eosinophil infiltration and MBP localization. Eosinophils immediately adhered to intact human airway as well as to cultured human airway myocytes and epithelium. Following incubation 18–24 h, eosinophils migrated into the airway media, including the smooth muscle layer, but had no specific recruitment to airway neurons. Eosinophils released significant amounts of MBP within the airway media, including areas comprising the smooth muscle layer. Most deposits of MBP were focally discrete and restricted by immunologic detection to a maximum volume of ∼300 μm3 about the eosinophil. Native MBP applied exogenously was immediately d... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3388866 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:32:09 +0100 3388866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3388865&cid=s_37035_60_f&fid=37035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2010%2F823486.html It was recently demonstrated that TLR4 activation via dietary lipids triggers inflammatory pathway and alters insulin responsiveness in the fat tissue during obesity. Here, we question whether other TLR family members could participate in the TLR-mediated inflammatory processes occurring in the obese adipose tissue. We thus studied the expression of TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR6 in adipose tissue. These receptors are expressed in omental and subcutaneous human fat tissue, the expression being higher in the omental tissue, independently of the metabolic status of the subject. We demonstrated a correlation of TLRs expression within and between each depot suggesting a coregulation. Murine 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cells stimulated with Pam3CSK4 induced the expression of some proinflammatory markers. T... Mediators of Inflammation journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3388865 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:32:09 +0100 3388865