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 'Medical Hypotheses' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:07:55 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656210&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987712000527%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656210 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:55:56 +0100 5656210 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656211&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006244%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Radiotherapy (RT) has been established to improve both local control as well as overall survival rates in breast cancer. However, RT especially in left-sided breast cancer also irradiates a portion of the heart. Radiation associated toxicity to the heart assumes significance because of improval in survival of breast cancer patients. A circadian pattern has been reported in the myocardial oxygen demand and myocardial ischaemia with the cardiac tissue being more susceptible to injury between 6am and noon. Radiation damages blood vessels of all sizes causing an increase in capillary wall permeability and dilatation of vessels leading to the characteristic radiation erythema followed by an inflammatory cell infiltrate. Coronary artery spasm may be the reason behind some cases of sudd... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656211 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656216&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006074%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The mechanisms behind certain co-morbid conditions associated with chronic HIV disease still remain elusive. HIV-associated peripheral neuropathy is one among those rarely studied manifestations in HIV-1 infection. Numerous underlying factors associated with peripheral neuropathy have been described in HIV disease. Herein, we hypothesized certain heretofore undescribed potential mechanisms that lead to HIV associated neuropathy. Being a multifactoral manifestation, HIV-associated neuropathy is presumed to have an association with physiological factors namely, adrenal inadequacy/steroid resistance and lipodystrophy-induced cushion-effect loss in peripheral nerves. Therefore, management of the adrenals with steroids at the time-point of high inflammatory burden thereby preventing l... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656216 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656216 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656215&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006086%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Peri-implantitis can lead to bone destruction around a dental implant through inflammation and immune reactions caused by bacteria adhering to the surface of the implant abutment. Electromagnetic irradiation can inhibit bacterial growth, increase bone formation, decrease bone resorption and reduce the inflammatory response. Our hypothesis is that electromagnetic irradiation may be a new treatment approach for peri-implantitis and may simultaneously maintain bone mass around the dental implant. The results would be more significant when combined with other agents, because the effect of some antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs is strengthened by electromagnetic irradiation. This non-invasive therapy is expected to be conducted in a convenient manner, and even by patients at hom... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656215 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656213&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006219%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: At the present time, the function of the mastoid remains unknown. One of the main hypotheses accredited in the literature interprets the mastoid as a pressure buffer. Other theories underline the role of the mastoid mucosa in pressure regulation by transmucosal gas exchanges. The question is what advantage does air reabsorption and the creation of a certain degree of negative pressure that mastoid seems to produce, bring to the middle ear and hearing? In the authors’ opinion, it is possible that the mastoid, or, in general, every kind of mucosa contained in the middle ear of mammals, would act to create a quite constant, although slight, negative pressure to obtain favorable compliance and impedance conditions in the middle ear to hear and transmit high frequency sounds and ult... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656213 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656226&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005706%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) promoter polymorphism (5HTTLPR) has been associated with individual stress responses such that individuals with childhood abuse history have higher rates of depression in later life if they are homozygous short (s/s) of the gene. It is hypothesized that these findings could be explained by an integrated model of a role of the glial cell transporter and a functional difference of 5HTTLPR in the capacity of absorbing serotonin from the synapse.A hypothetical integrated model of the SLC6A4 function and the role of glial cells are put forward to explain accumulating results of recent investigations exploring the relationship between the gene and the diverse mental activities including depression and stress response.A model based on SLC6A4 varia... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656226 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656227&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006220%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Sucralfate, which is used to treat gastric ulcers and other intestinal injuries , has a gastric cytoprotective effect due to its increase of mucosal defence mechanisms. It is minimally absorbed into the body, and it acts exclusive on the stomach and duodenum. Sucralfate is a locally acting substance, which reacts with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form a cross-linked, viscous, paste-like material that can act as an acid buffer for up to six to eight hours. In addition, sucralfate prevents back diffusion of hydrogen ions, and adsorbs both pepsin and bile acids. Furthermore, sucralfate has been reported to stimulate the secretion of prostaglandin E2 and gastric mucus. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656227 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656225&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005895%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Ovarian carcinoma is a significant cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. As a heterogeneous disease, distinct clinical and molecular characteristics exist among different histologic subtypes. With the developments in proteomics, surfaced-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) is sensitive enough to detect minute quantity of proteins from serum or microdissected cryostat sections. Herein we hypothesized that differentially expressed protein profiles exist in ovarian carcinomas with distinct histologic subtypes. Compared with endometrioid carcinoma, two peaks were significantly higher in serous carcinoma with the m/z of 3622Da and 4778Da, reinforcing the need to treat different histologic subtypes of ovarian cancer as different ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656225 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656212&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006232%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Keloids are benign tumours composed of fibrous tissue produced during excessive tissue repair triggered by minor injury, trauma or surgical incision. Although it is recognized that keloids have a propensity to form in the upper torso of the body, the predisposing factors responsible for this have not been investigated. It is crucial that the aetiopathoical factors implicated in keloid formation be established to provide guidelines for well-informed more successful treatment. We compared keloid-prone and keloid-protected skin, identified pertinent morphological differences and explored how inherent structural characteristics and intrinsic factors may promote keloid formation. It was determined that keloid prone areas were covered with high tension skin that had low stretch and a l... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656212 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656218&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006050%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Pituitary adenomas are common benign intracranial neoplasms representing about 10–25% of all intracranial neoplasm. Significant morbidity can occur along with pituitary adenomas due to hormonal dysfunction and mass effects. The pathogenesis of pituitary adenoma is unclear, however, etiologic factors include genetic events, hormonal stimulation, and growth factors , all of which promote cell proliferation and transformation in the tumor. However, genetic events play the most important role in tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, not only have function in pituitary cell proliferation and apoptosis but also in neoplastic transformation. It has been shown that miRNAs are differentially expressed in pituitary adenoma when compared with the normal pituitary ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656218 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656214&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006098%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: According to the core activity of calcium in the bone cellular expression, a new hypothesis linking calcium transport with the mechanical loading is proposed to explain the mechano-adaptation of bone tissue. Due to the piezoelectric coupling, the tensile and compressive areas of bone produce different electrical environments for the osteocytic cells that are embedded in the lacuno-canalicular porosity. This electrical asymmetry engenders a calcium enrichment–exclusion effect that strongly changes the calcium concentration in the lacuno-canalicular fluid and thus modifies the remodelling process. A bibliographic body of evidence supporting this idea is given and its experimental validation is suggested. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656214 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656223&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005913%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Recently, there have been increasing evidences that microRNA-146 (miR-146) is related to up-regulated immune and inflammatory signaling through its target genes, such as IRAK1 and TRAF6. Additionally, abundant data continue to support the hypothesis that progressive up-regulation of inflammatory gene expression and elevated inflammatory signaling facilitate the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This review focuses on the recent findings regarding the role of miR-146 in modulating immune response and its subsequent effects in the pathogenesis of AD. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656223 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5656223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549560&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006128%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549560 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:21:03 +0100 5549560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656217&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006062%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Bisphosphonates are used in the oncological setting to treat and prevent skeletal-related events and preserve bone mineral density. Bisphosphonates also possess a hypocalcaemic effect. When undesired, hypocalcaemia can result in increased morbidity and complications. The currently understood mechanism of bisphosphonate-induced hypocalcaemia is by osteoclast inhibition. The effect of bisphosphonates on osteoblasts is less well understood. Laboratory studies demonstrate that bisphosphonates increase osteoblast and osteoblastic metastases maturation, activity and bone mineralization. We hypothesize that where large populations of osteoblasts exist increased mineralization may result in hypocalcaemia. Consequently patients with bone-metastatic prostate cancer may be more susceptible ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656217 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656219&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006049%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Dupuytren’s disease (DD) is a benign progressive fibro-proliferative disorder of the fascia palmaris of the hand. Currently, treatment consists of surgical excision with a relatively high recurrence rate and risk of complications. To improve long-term outcome of DD treatment, research focus has shifted towards molecular targets for DD as an alternative to surgery. Therefore, complete and exact understanding of the cause of DD is needed.Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is considered a key player in DD. We recently showed that increased TGF-β expression in DD correlates not only with elevated expression and activation of downstream Smad effectors, but also with overactive ERK1/2 MAP kinase signaling. Both TGF-β/Smad and non-Smad signaling pathways increase expression of key ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656219 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656220&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006037%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Tuberculosis is a human disease caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. M. tuberculosis (Mtb) is a facultative intracellular pathogen. The alveolar macrophages provide a critical niche for the intracellular pathogen. It has been shown that virulent strains mycobacteria (Mtb-H37Rv, Mycobacterium bovis) induce less apoptosis in host macrophage than avirulent mycobacteria strains (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin, H37Ra). Comparative genomics analysis has revealed that the region of difference (RD1) of M. tuberculosis is absent from all strains of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). On the contrary, it presents in all virulent strains of M. tuberculosis and M. bovis. The culture filtrate protein 10 (CFP10) and early secretory antigenic target protein 6 (ESAT6) are encoded by RD1 ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656220 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656221&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711006025%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Insulin resistance is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The mechanisms underpinning β-cell mass expansion and their functionality in insulin-resistant states still remain elusive. It has recently been shown that insulin resistance in skeletal muscles leads to production of myokines that impact negatively on β-cell function. We hypothesize that multiple intramuscular injections (IM) of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) at different sites would aid in countering the insulin resistance in T2D. These IM injections are expected to have dual effects in overcoming muscle insulin resistance. It is likely to modulate the micro environmental niche of insulin-insensitive myocytes under the influence of paracrine secretions from MSCs, in turn changing the myokine secretion pattern to pos... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656221 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656224&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005901%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Any classification is a step forward and it should help to determine the reason, the course, the prognosis, the treatment of a disease. The current classification of diabetes mellitus (DM) is really very convenient for work, but it has some drawbacks, and the absence of differentiation of type 2 diabetes is the main. The problem is the absence of an adequate criterion, based on pathogenesis for differentiation.We suppose that cell mediated immunity (CMI) to insulin plays the central role in the diabetes genesis. Autoimmune process may be triggered by viruses family Paramyxoviridae, in 10–20% of type 1 diabetes patients the disease is a consequence of direct cytotoxic effect of other viruses to the islet cells of pancreas. In acute phase of viral infection (measles, mumps, parai... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656224 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5656222&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005925%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Incidence of cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis is much higher than in general population. Cardiovascular events (e.g. myocardial infarction or stroke) are caused by premature accelerated development of atherosclerosis. Chronic inflammation-enhanced atherosclerosis syndrome is proposed as a separate syndrome occurring in patients suffering of chronic inflammation. It is suggested that atherosclerosis as an inflammatory disease and long-lasting extravascular inflammation have common mechanisms resulting in an increase in atherosclerosis and its sequellae, cardiovascular diseases. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5656222 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5656222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549581&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100572X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Hamstring injuries are commonly reported in various sports involving sprinting, high-velocity running and kicking. Aberrant biomechanics and neuromotor control of the lumbopelvic and thigh segments have been reported to play a significant role in hamstring injury incidence and recurrence. Recent evidence suggests that external pelvic compression (EPC) applied with a pelvic belt can augment the stability of the pelvic joints, and alter neuromotor control of the lumbopelvic and thigh muscles in individuals with and without (somatic) lumbopelvic and groin dysfunction. However, the effects of EPC on neuromotor control of injured hamstring muscles remain unknown. We have explored the putative neuromotor link between the lumbopelvic segment and hamstring muscles, and generated hypothes... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549581 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549599&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005731%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The Publisher regrets that this article is an accidental duplication of an article that has already been published in Bioscience Hypotheses, 2 (2009) 34–36. doi: 10.1016/j.bihy.2008.08.004. The duplicate article has therefore been withdrawn. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549599 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549598&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005810%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Acetaminophen is one of the most common drugs administered in many hospitalized children in USA for its antipyretic effects . Schultz et al. reported that there is an association between acetaminophen use after measles–mumps–rubella vaccination and autistic disorder . Others argued it for some methodological issues . However, it seems that the association is not by chance . Meanwhile, the exact pathological mechanism for this suggested association is not clear. It has not been answered that how acetaminophen induces autism. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549598 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492401&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005950%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492401 Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:22:14 +0100 5492401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549593&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005871%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Depression is a highly prevalent mental illness, which is associated with substantial functional impairment. Many factors, like especially genetic risk and stressful life events, are being discussed to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. There is also evidence that elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, which are frequently found in depressed individuals, could contribute to the development of the disease. Patients with metabolic syndrome also show a chronic low grade of inflammation. In addition, epidemiological studies suggest that an unhealthy dietary eating pattern, consisting of high amounts of refined grains and softdrinks, red and processed meat, fatty dairy products, and little amounts of vegetables, fruits and fish is associated with higher levels of m... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549593 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549592&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100586X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the commonest of the renal neoplasms. Although surgery and cryoablation are successful curative treatments for localized RCC, most patients are diagnosed with advanced or metastatic RCC, which has a poor prognosis. RCC are a heterogeneous set of cancers that have traditionally been classified and staged using cellular characteristics, size, local extension and distant metastases. Current staging systems provide good prognostic information, but it is very likely that the identification of new more accurate and predictive prognostic markers, not currently included in traditional staging systems, will improve the outcome for RCC patients. For this reason, increased knowledge of the underlying molecular characteristics of RCC development and progression ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549592 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549587&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005809%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: With the increasing awareness of Peyronie’s disease (PD), the interest in new concept medications to treat the disorder is escalating. Profibrogenic factors such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, endothelin (ET-1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), angiotensin (Ang) II and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), all appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of PD. β-Thymosins, pirfenidone, nitric oxide (NO) donors, phosphodiesterase (PDE)-5 inhibitors, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)/anti-tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1 reduce collagen synthesis, while decorin, follistatin, and Smad 7 exert antifibrotic effects; all have been proposed for the treatment of PD. Alternative and/or novel approaches for the treatment of PD are needed in part because o... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549587 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549594&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005883%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article presents a new three-dimensional model for monoamine neurotransmitters and emotions.In the model, the monoamine systems are represented as orthogonal axes and the eight basic emotions, labeled according to Tomkins, are placed at each of the eight possible extreme values, represented as corners of a cube.The model may help in understanding human emotions, psychiatric illness and the effects of psychotropic drugs. However, further empirical studies are needed to establish its validity. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549594 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549590&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005846%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Oxytocin augmentation and cesarean rates among low-risk, term, nulliparous women with a spontaneous onset of labor in the United States approximate 50% and 26.5%, respectively. This indicates that the quality of obstetrical care is less than optimal in this nation. Exorbitant oxytocin use, the intervention most commonly associated with preventable adverse perinatal outcomes, jeopardizes birth safety while the high cesarean rate in this high-volume group compromises population health and increases health care costs. Dystocia, characterized by the slow, abnormal progression of labor, is the most commonly reported indication for primary cesareans, accounting directly for approximately 50% of all nulliparous cesareans and indirectly for most repeat cesareans. Diagnoses of dystocia ar... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549590 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549589&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005834%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Since the introduction of bisphosphonates to treat diseases that affect bone remodelling, there has been an increasing number of cases of bisphosphonate (BP)-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ). Epidemiological data regarding BRONJ vary widely between studies, and a number of potential methodological biases have been detected. In some small preliminary studies, single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with an increased risk of BRONJ among cancer patients have been identified. However, genetic susceptibility to oral BP-related BRONJ has not previously been discussed. We suggest that epidemiological variability could be related to the existence of a susceptibility factor particularly prevalent in the population of a well-defined geographical region.To support our hypothesis ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549589 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549588&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005822%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Breakdown of mammalian cerebral cell membrane phospholipids releases phosphorylated polar head groups from the sn-3 phospholipid position, including phosphorylcholine and phosphorylethanolamine. Glycerophosphorylcholine and glycerophosphorylethanolamine are on their catabolic pathways and have been assigned to the phosphodiester narrow resonance obtained from 31-phosphorus neurospectroscopy, accounting for approximately 38% of the overall signal; therefore in human in vivo 31-phosphorus neurospectroscopy neuropsychiatric studies this narrow resonance has been used to index the catabolism of cerebral cell membrane phospholipids non-invasively. However, for ethical reasons direct assessment of this assumption has not hitherto been possible in humans. Recently, it has become possibl... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549588 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549585&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005780%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The cause of Alzheimer’s disorder is not known. The most influential known risk factor is increasing age. The risk factor of increasing age is consistent with exposure to environmental toxins throughout life as a cause of Alzheimer’s. In addition, microbleeding, changes in membrane permeability and increased cholesterol are all factors important in Alzheimer’s. Cottonseed contains toxins and is fed to animals, fish and poultry. Cottonseed toxins remain in the animals, fish and poultry and are present in the human diet at seemingly low levels. The average person is ingesting cottonseed toxins throughout life. Cottonseed toxins cause bleeding, changes in membrane permeability and increased cholesterol. In addition, the cottonseed toxin gossypol is known to reach the brain and... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549585 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549597&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005779%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Major repeaters (individuals with ⩾5 lifetime suicide attempts) represent between 15% and 20% of suicide attempters . Quite surprisingly, no previous study has considered that major repeaters might be “addicted” to suicidal behavior (SB). But, how can be explained that some individuals attempt suicide more than 80 times without using an addictive paradigm? (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549597 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549591&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005858%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Epulis is a relapsable lesion in gingiva without specific treatment for its unexplained pathogenesis. Nowadays, surgical excision is the most popular method of treatment. To prevent recurrence, it is necessary to resect diseased tissues thoroughly, and even to remove the involved teeth. However, this may cause functional and cosmetic deformities. Therefore, it is urgent to find a new therapy without severe side effects. Infantile hemangioma is a common benign pediatric tumor which shares many features with epulis, such as rich vascularity, high incidence of female patients, high hormone level and similar treatments. A recent study showed that propranolol, a beta adrenergic receptor (β-AR) antagonist, was effective as treatment for infantile hemangioma. Our preliminary work showe... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549591 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549586&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005792%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Presenilins (PS1 and PS2) and the amyloid-β precursor protein (AβPP) are the only known proteins as causing monogenic Alzheimer’s disease. AβPP is not the unique substrate of the γ-secretase complex. Presenilins are also implicated in the processing of Notch, an important developmental protein, which is thought to compete directly with AβPP for cleavage by γ-secretase.In the context of cleavages in alpha, beta and gamma and with the recent three-dimensional models of γ-secretase complex, a kinetic study of the sequential proteolysis of AβPP prompts us to think the possible existence of two entrance sites for substrate with only one exit site, a configuration depicting a lowercase gamma letter. The quantitative distribution of the cleavage products by the γ-secretase, m... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549586 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549584&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005767%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The traditional approach of repairing the linea alba, while operating on ventral hernias, is based on the premise that the linea alba is a strong layer and can reinforce the abdominal wall. This deeply entrenched view of most surgeons has resulted in numerous techniques which invariably include the linea alba as a part of the repair. On the contrary, this article proposes a hypothesis that the linea alba is a weak layer and varies widely in individuals with respect to its anatomy. It is especially weak in elderly, obese and multiparous patients in whom ventral hernias are common. The ‘white line’ – literal translation of ‘linea alba’ – becomes wide and attenuated in these patients; this ‘white area’ or ‘rus alba’ is more susceptible to tissue failure. We terme... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549584 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549582&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005743%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Dental pulp exposure is a common incident during dental treatment. If there are clinical signs of pulp vitality, it is recommended to carry out direct pulp capping (DPC) using appropriate pulp covering agents (PCA). The main objectives are maintenance of pulp vitality/healing along with the formation of a calcified bridge beneath the PCA. Our proposed hypothesis is based on consideration of biologic principles in order to achieve improved treatment outcomes of DPC for cariously exposed pulp using miniature pulpotomy procedure (MPP). MPP will result in improved treatment outcomes of DPC by improved maintenance of a clean surgical pulp wound; removal of infected dentin chips/damaged pulp tissue specially injured odontoblast cells; improved proximity/interaction of PCA to undifferen... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549582 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549583&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005755%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Selective targeting of bone marrow-derived cells (BMCs) has been heralded as a promising avenue for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) therapeutics. Many researchers have demonstrated that the function of circulating BMCs is related to disease severity in patients with AMD. Transplanted BMCs are able to transdifferentiate into retina-specific cells to replace those lost due to damage or degeneration in the pathologic process of experimental models of AMD, which may provide beneficial effects in patients with AMD. However, a major barrier to transferring the use of BMCs into clinical practice is the limited quantity of BMCs in the peripheral circulation. Technology has not yet reached a stage where ex vivo-expanded BMCs can be routinely used for cell therapy. A feasible strate... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549583 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549578&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005688%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cancer cells with stem cell characteristics are harbored by most tumors, and are characterized by epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) – which promotes invasive growth and metastasis – chemoresistance, and the capacity to reconstitute new tumors. Hence, the control or destruction of cancer stem cells should be a major goal of cancer management. The let-7 family of microRNAs has cancer suppressor activity, and recent evidence suggests that markedly reduced levels of let-7 are not only a typical feature of cancer stem cells, but may be largely responsible for cancer stemness. It is therefore particularly intriguing that metformin, a diabetes drug thought to have potential in the prevention and treatment of cancer, has recently been found to oppose cancer cell stemness, to ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549578 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549573&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005639%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) is a spinal deformity that develops after skeletal maturity with a Cobb angle of more than 10° in the coronal plane. As the life expectancy of our population increases, DLS becomes a prevalent health issue affecting the quality of life of the elderly. The degree of the scoliosis curvature affects not only the symptoms but also the choice of treatments. Osteoporosis and intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) have been suggested as two important risks associated with the progression of DLS. Interestingly, recent data implicate interleukin-1 (IL-1) in the altered matrix biology that characterizes human IDD. Compelling evidence links decreased sleep duration to lower bone mineral density (BMD) and elevated expression of IL-1. Based on these eviden... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549573 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549580&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005718%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) bony ankylosis has generated great interest in the cranio-maxillofacial surgeons yet remains an enigma, due to its unknown pathogenesis. Organization and ossification of hematoma is the classical hypothesis concerning the underlying pathophysiology, but it could not explain all the unique characters of TMJ bony ankylosis. The previous imaging descriptions about bony ankylosis tend to over-emphasize the obliteration of joint space and the overgrowth of new bone around the joint. Our recent study has found that the radiolucent zone in the bony fusion area indicating impaired bone healing is one of the most important imaging features of bony ankylosis, and this imaging feature is similar to that of hypertrophic nonunion of long bone. We al... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549580 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549577&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005676%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we used the model of PD gait behavior for comparing normal and PD persons in order to simulate FOG and find its pathophysiology and probable treatments. We observed in the adapted model that the dopaminergic weights were reduced and the amount of dopaminergic bias was increased. These findings show that the aggravation of the disease and severe resistance of neurons to dopamine agonists may be the main cause of the FOG. Based on our model three therapeutic strategies may be proposed: decreasing the cortex signal to basal ganglia, using high dose glutamate antagonist, and using less glutamate antagonist with some amounts of gabapentin. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549577 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549579&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100569X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this report, we suggest that sTREM-1 can be used as a new therapeutic molecule in RA. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549579 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549576&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005664%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Evidence from psychology and neuroscience indicates that our spatial experience, including the bodily one, involves the integration of different sensory inputs within two different reference frames egocentric (body as reference of first-person experience) and allocentric (body as object in the physical world). Even if functional relations between these two frames are usually limited, they influence each other during the interaction between long- and short-term memory processes in spatial cognition. If, for some reasons, this process is impaired, the egocentric sensory inputs are no more able to update the contents of the allocentric representation of the body: the subject is locked to it. In the presented perspective, subjects with eating disorders are locked to an allocentric re... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549576 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549575&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005652%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Malaria is a major health problem affecting millions of people annually especially in underdeveloped countries. Mutations causing alterations in hemoglobin production or structure are known to afford protection against the development of severe forms of malaria. Not surprinsingly, these hemoglobin disorders are present at high frequency in areas where malaria is endemic, indicating a survival advantage for individuals carrying them. Despite many years of research, the exact mechanisms underlying the protection afforded by hemoglobinopathies against severe forms of malaria have not yet found a definitive answer. One feature of hemoglobinopathies, observed both in humans and mice, is the fact that individuals carrying these disorders express low levels of the hormone hepcidin that ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549575 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549572&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005627%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Of the myriad etiologies of sensorineural hearing impairment, metabolic stress is rarely considered. I posit that severe dehydration in conjunction with hypoxia, at least during infancy, prompts permanent changes in the cochlea.In a population-based prospective study of otitis media, children without otitis were found to have at age 4–8years, worse auditory thresholds if as an infant had been hospitalized for diarrhea–dehydration. What is more, stapedius reflex thresholds tended to be lower in children who had been hospitalized for diarrhea–dehydration: that is, less acoustic energy for arousal or to be frightening.The hypothesis that the transient metabolic stress of dehydration with hypoxia prompts permanent sensorineural hearing impairment with reduced uncomfortable loud... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549572 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549570&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005597%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Recent successes in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering of bladder and bladder-like neo-organs have leveraged regenerative constructs composed of a biodegradable scaffold seeded with a population of smooth muscle cells. We have shown that such smooth muscle cells are isolatable from adipose and other sources alternate to the primary organ. We hypothesize that this regenerative platform is not limited to regeneration of bladder and bladder-like neo-organs, but rather represents a foundational technology platform broadly applicable for regeneration of laminarly organized hollow organs. Using esophagus as an illustrative example in support of this hypothesis, we demonstrate that patch constructs composed of adipose-derived smooth muscle cells seeded on a biodegradable matri... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549570 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549564&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005524%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cardiovascular regulation is considered today as having three levels: autoregulations, neural regulations and hormonal regulations. We hypothesize that the cardiovascular regulation has an additional (fourth) control level which is outer, hierarchical (adaptive) loop where LF-HRV amplitude serves as a reference input which the neural cardiovascular center detects and responses in order to maintain LF-HRV around some prescribed level. Supporting evidences: LF-HRV absence during artificial cardiac pacing may be associated with “pacemaker syndrome” which had not been sufficiently understood regardless of apparently unimpaired cardiovascular performance. The hypothesis may provide an essential basis for understanding several cardiovascular morbidities and insight toward diagnosti... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549564 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549562&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005378%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The interaction of folate and alcohol consumption has been shown to have an antagonistic effect on the risk of oral cancer. Studies have demonstrated that increased intake of folate decreases the risk of oral cancer, while greater alcohol consumption has an opposite effect. However, what is poorly understood is the biological interaction of these two dietary factors in relation to carcinogenesis. We hypothesize that cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and the family of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) enzymes may play a causal role in the occurrence of oral cancer. Chronic and high alcohol use has been implicated in the induction of CYP2E1, which oxidizes ethanol to acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is a known carcinogen. As the first metabolite of ethanol, it has been shown to interfere with ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549562 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549595&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005561%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Gout is defined as a disorder in which monosodium urate monohydrate (MSU) crystals are deposited in soft tissues, joints, bone, or renal collecting systems, often aggregated into tophi . When these crystals are deposited in synovium they initiate the immune response which causes the severe joint pain and inflammation of a gout flare. Sometimes they are encased in externally visible or palpable subcutaneous tophi, or they cause urolithiasis. In these situations, the gout is termed symptomatic. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549595 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549574&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005640%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Dravet syndrome, characterized predominantly by myoclonus, has a striking clinical resemblance to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). Patients with Dravet syndrome develop significant mental decline with advancing age of affected child like in SSPE. It is well established that SCN1A gene mutations are associated with Dravet syndrome. Even periodic EEG complexes have been described in Dravet syndrome. In addition to Dravet syndrome, several other types of acute and subacute encephalopathic syndromes having clinical and electroencephalographic resemblance to SSPE are associated with SCN1A gene mutations.SSPE is a devastating progressive inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. It is caused by persistent infection of the brain by an aberrant measles virus. Only a... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549574 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549571&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005615%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: More evidence indicate that prostate inflammation can lead to prostate cancer development. Prostate cancer affects elderly men. Prostate cancer prophylaxis is an important issue because life expectancy is very long now. Ciprofloxacin is an antibacterial agent used mainly in urinary tract infections and prostate inflammation. This drug acts also against cancer cells by the inhibition of topoisomerase II. These properties should allow it to inhibit the development of prostate cancer. Firstly, ciprofloxacin can stop the acute and chronic prostate inflammation which can lead to cancer development. Secondly, ciprofloxacin can potentially kill prostate cancer cells in their early stage of development. Ciprofloxacin accumulates mainly in the prostate after oral intake thus ciprofloxacin... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549571 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549569&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005585%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We assessed the changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics caused by barriers to CSF circulation, and determined the relationship between CSF velocity and intracranial pressure in the aqueduct of the midbrain. This was determined by correlating the CSF peak flow velocity with the intracranial pressure (ICP) obtained from a lumbar puncture (LP) procedure. The CSF peak flow velocity was measured by finger pulse-gated cine-phase contrast (PC) MR scan 8–12hours after LP was performed in 28 patients. All patients were divided into 2 groups based on the directional patterns of the CSF net flow in the aqueduct of the midbrain over one cardiac cycle. The CSF peak net velocity (Vnet) was then correlated with ICP utilizing Pearson correlation analysis method, with significance di... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549569 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549568&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005573%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Hepatorenal syndrome occurs in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis and is associated with functional renal impairment and poor prognosis. These patients present a challenge to physicians and management strategies. Although various pharmacological therapies are available, large randomized controlled trials are required to determine which treatment modality is most effective to improve survival rates along with its dose and duration of treatment. The overproduction of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) has been postulated to play a role in progression of this disease, being associated with hyperdynamic circulation and inflammatory process. Moreover, increasing the levels of TNF-alpha during the course of hospitalization is suggested to be associated with increased mortality... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549568 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549567&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100555X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The proximal attachments of the popliteus muscle exhibit some variability in the literature, leading to questions regarding function. The anatomic variability of the proximal attachments of popliteus muscles in Thais was studied in order to compare with the previous reported literature by carefully tracking its fibers caudo-cephalically. The sites of the proximal attachments of popliteus muscles found in this study were at the lateral femoral condyle (100%), the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus (63%) and the fibular head (52.1%). Our result also reveals the difference of the strength of the attachment at the lateral meniscus, having some relationship with the attachment at the fibular head, which corresponds with the concept of form and function. (Source: Medical Hypotheses... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549567 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549566&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005548%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Adriamycin is an anthracycline antibiotic used as anticancer drug since past few decades. Though effective against cancer, it is cardiotoxic, nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic and also toxic for reproductive system. Although a number of potential toxic mechanisms have been identified following exposure to adriamycin, the major pathogenic mechanism appears to be the generation of toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). Animals treated with adriamycin have shown a decrease in total sperm count. This implies that adriamycin impairs the process of spermatogenesis. Epididymal white adipose tissue (EWAT) is necessary for normal spermatogenesis, and decrease in the EWAT causes disturbance in spermatogenesis. Factor X is an unknown molecule synthesized by EWAT that plays crucial role in spermatogene... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549566 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549565&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005536%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Autism is a condition characterized by impaired cognitive and social skills, often associated with compromised immune function. There has been considerable concern recently that the incidence of autism is alarmingly on the rise, especially in Western nations, and environmental factors are increasingly suspected to play a role. In this paper, we propose a novel hypothesis for a principle cause of autism, namely insufficient supply of cholesterol sulfate to the fetus during gestation and the infant postnatally. We hypothesize that main contributory factors are insufficient sun exposure and insufficient dietary sulfur, for both the mother and the affected child. A novel contribution is the theory that endothelial nitric oxide synthase produces not only nitric oxide but also sulfate,... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549565 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549596&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005603%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The hypothesis by Ge and Sun proposes that Helicobacter pylori (Hp)n, a histidine-rich protein abundant in this bacterium that forms amyloid-like oligomers, may be the mediator between Hp-infection (Hp-I) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), whose close association has been recently discovered by several independent groups from Greece, Italy, Canada and Japan . (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549596 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492444&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005354%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The incidence of type I diabetes is rising worldwide, particularly in young children. Type I diabetes is considered a multifactorial disease with genetic predisposition and environmental factors participating. Currently, despite years of research, there is no consensus regarding the factors that initiate the autoimmune response. Type I diabetes is preceded by autoimmunity to islet antigens, among them the protein glutamic acid decarboxylase, GAD-65. Pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (PLP) is formed from vitamin B6 by the action of pyridoxal kinase. Interaction of GAD65 with PLP is necessary for GAD65-mediated synthesis of the neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). PLP is also a required cofactor for dopamine synthesis by L-aromatic decarboxylase (L-AADC). Both GAD65 and L-AADC are ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492444 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492443&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005342%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are a major medical burden and our current understanding of the pathophysiological process leading to their development remains minimal. While research has strongly linked chronic stress to the development of MUS the exact mechanisms and the reason for the many variations in the resultant symptomatology remain unclear. In this paper we advance the hypothesis that an internal (visceral) sensory gating system must exist akin to the much better studied external sensory gating system. The hypothesis is based on the observations that under normal conditions sensations of internal organs do not reach consciousness (i.e., filtered or gated out on a subconscious or preattentive level). As visceral sensations are usually perceived only when there is a ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492443 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492408&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004865%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is not known why metastases from epithelial cancers are rare in the spleen, yet common in the other major organs of the reticuloendothelial system in which, like the spleen, leucocytes display a prolonged physiological intravascular transit time. Another unresolved issue that at first seems unrelated to splenic metastases is the inconsistency between the concept of physiological granulocyte disposal through granulocyte ageing and the observation that granulocytes leave the blood in an exponential fashion (half-time 7h), which implies random disposal. Intravascular granulocytes pass through the spleen with an exponential distribution of transit times (mean 10min). The spleen is highly active in physiological granulocyte destruction so it is suggested that the variation in times... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492408 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549563&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100538X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Plasma gelsolin (pGSN) is the only component of two member extracellular actin scavenger system capable of severing circulating actin microfilaments. Here, we put forth the hypothesis that pGSN level is an important and sensitive general prognostic biomarker for health and disease conditions in humans, urging the need for gelsolin replacement therapy to improve patient’s health status. Clinical significance and the therapeutic importance of this protein have been well illustrated in animal models as well as in patients with various diseases. Patients with decreased pGSN levels were observed to have higher mortality rate, longer hospital stay and longer ventilation time in intensive care units as compared to healthy controls. pGSN levels were found to be increasing in patients r... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549563 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5549563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492445&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005366%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Psoriasis is a genetically determined, almost worldwide-distributed inflammatory skin disease with overall higher prevalence among people of northern European ancestry. Since enhanced innate immunity is an important feature of the pathophysiology of this disease, it has been proposed that differences in the prevalence of psoriasis in different populations mainly result from differences in natural selection for gene polymorphisms associated with more vigorous immunity against infectious agents. However the infectious agent(s) that could have acted upon human population as selection pressure for psoriasis is still obscure. Based on the remarkable clinical observation that psoriasis and leprosy are almost mutually exclusive, a fact that is further supported by divergent HLA patterns... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492445 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492439&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005305%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a widespread medical problem commonly accompanied by a hypoproliferative anemia (“renal anemia”) due to erythropoietin deficiency. Anemia greatly contributes to reduced quality of life (Hr-QoL) and high morbidity and mortality in CRF patients. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHu-Epo) was introduced to medical practice some 20years ago. It enables correction of anemia (hemoglobin levels, Hb) with dramatic immediate (Hr-QoL improvement) and long-term effects (reduced morbidity and mortality). Newer experimental data suggest that long-term benefits could be due not only to antianemic effect, but also to a direct organoprotective effect of (rHu)-Epo mediated through a receptor complex different from the “erythropoietic” erythropoietin receptor... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492439 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492432&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005238%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) remains a devastating cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea. Treatment modalities have centered traditionally on two antibiotics, metronidazole and oral vancomycin. Both drugs, however, have been associated with variable relapse rates up to 20%. Fidaxomicin, a new oral agent with targeted C. difficile activity, may reduce the chance of relapse, but has not yet entered mainstream clinical practice. CDI is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In the past decade, the emergence of hypervirulent strains has led to medical management failures and the increased need for surgical intervention.Control of the disease requires excellent infection prevention practices, yet can remain a difficult operational challenge. Selective pressure of ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492432 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396535&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100541X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396535 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:55:44 +0100 5396535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492441&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005329%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Long term dual anti-platelet therapy with aspirin 81mg daily and clopidogrel 75mg every other day beyond 12months after PCI with DES may be a safe and efficacious cost-saving strategy to prevent VLST. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492441 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492440&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005317%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The cerebellum has traditionally been seen as a brain area limited to the coordination of voluntary movement, gait, posture, speech, and motor functions. There are increasing evidence, however, proving that the cerebellum is implicated in processes associated with the control of cognition, behavior, and psychiatric illness. Furthermore, the fact that the cerebellum is reciprocally connected to a broad range of limbic structures including the amygdale and hippocampus, as well as the cerebral cortex including the prefrontal areas, provides a strong neuroanatomical argument in favor of cerebellar involvement in cognition regulation. Studies have already found the fact that after stroke, the cerebellum suffered from reduction in metabolism and blood flow in the cerebellar hemisphere ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492440 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492440 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492442&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005330%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Induction of immune tolerance is one of the recent novel immunomodulatory strategies to directly intervene the autoimmune-driven atherosclerosis. Aspirin is a prototypic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which is now being regarded as a life-saver in variety of atherosclerotic cardiovascular complications. Considerable amount of data emerged during last few years clearly suggests that aspirin can cause immunomodulation by several mechanisms, particularly, its ability to induce tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) and to upregulate T regulatory (Treg) cells is especially appealing with respect to induction of immunological self-tolerance. Based on this fact, we hypothesize that aspirin, in addition to its anti-inflammatory effect, may also specifically inhibit autoimmune response... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492442 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492436&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005275%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Political correctness (PC) commonly refers to a mutual respect for the views and beliefs of others, including enemies, and while differing in opinions, the willfulness to overcome the existing disagreements, and to prevent animosity. To date however, the term PC is sometimes used in a perverted sense aimed for disintegration of solidarity in a society, thus giving birth to a new powerful conceptual tool, the perverse political correctness (PPC). PPC ideology resides in people with certain psychological types.We assume that there are basic psychological variations of personality traits and the mechanisms of their formation that promote not only insertion, but rapid distribution of modern PPC ideology.Although the dimension of their behavior is very similar, the personality traits ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492436 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492433&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100524X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Negative selection of CD8 single positive thymocytes is based on the presentation through the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I pathway of peptides derived from degradation of self-proteins by the constitutive proteasome and the immunoproteasome in the thymus. Then naïve CD8+ T-cells can be primed by mature dendritic cells. In mature dendritic cells peptides presented by MHC class I molecules are derived from degradation of endogenous self-proteins or through the process of cross-presentation from degradation of exogenous proteins by the immunoproteasome. In the absence of infection, peripheral cells display peptides on MHC class I molecules derived from degradation of endogenous self-proteins by the constitutive proteasome. The pool of peptides derived from protein... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492433 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492438&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005299%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Peritoneal fibrosis is a common complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis, and contributes to encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis and eventually peritoneal ultrafiltration failure, which restricts the wide application of peritoneal dialysis. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of peritoneal fibrosis is important to maintain peritoneal membrane integrity and prolong peritoneal dialysis treatment. Unfortunately, neither specific biomarkers nor effective therapies are available for peritoneal fibrosis in the clinic up to now. Emerging evidence suggests that extracellular microRNAs in body fluids are promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of diseases. microRNAs were reported to be involved in multiple fibrotic diseases and the serum levels of specific microRNAs were correlated... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492438 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492431&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005226%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Lateral cervical displacement has been recognized as a sign of endometriosis; however, other causes of the finding have not been explored. In our experience, patients without endometriosis are presenting with lateral cervical displacement, mainly towards the left of midline. The common finding in these cases is the presence of cervicitis leading us to hypothesize the role of cervicitis in causing lateral displacement of the cervix. Future research into this area will provide us with a stronger understanding of the role that lateral cervical displacement plays in the development of pelvic pathology and the development of cervical cancer. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492431 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492430&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005214%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Efforts to explore possible relationships between nitric oxide (NO) and antioxidant enzymes in an Escherichia coli model have uncovered a possible interaction between sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a potent, NO-donating drug, and the ferric uptake regulator (Fur), an iron(II) – dependent regulator of antioxidant and iron acquisition proteins present in Gram-negative bacteria. The enzymatic profiles of superoxide dismutase and hydroperoxidase during logarithmic phase of growth were studied via non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and activity staining specific to each enzyme. Though NO is known to induce transcription of the manganese-bearing isozyme of SOD (MnSOD), treatment with SNP paradoxically suppressed MnSOD expression and greatly enhanced the activity of the ir... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492430 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5492430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492437&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005287%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Venous blood flow restriction (VBFR) combined with low intensity resistance exercise (20–30% concentric 1-RM) has been observed to result in skeletal muscle hypertrophy, increased strength, and increased endurance. Knowledge of the mechanisms behind the benefits seen with VBFR is incomplete, but the benefits have traditionally been thought to occur from the decreased oxygen and accumulation of metabolites. Although many of the proposed mechanisms appear valid and are likely true with VBFR combined with resistance exercise, there are certain situations in which benefits are observed without a large accumulation of metabolites and/or large increases in fast twitch fiber type recruitment. Cell swelling appears to be a likely mechanism that appears to be present throughout all stud... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492437 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492429&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005202%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis (RA) presents difficulty in diagnosis, commonly observed flare ups, polycyclical nature of RA progression, and variable response to therapies. Congruent with multiple causes, literature has documented various infectious agents, environmental factors, physical trauma, silica and food sensitivities as potential causes of RA or RA flares in different populations. We propose that these >36 events can initiate RA or RA flares which complicates treatment decisions. Each pharmaceutical medicine benefits 15–82% of RA patients. Predictive factors are needed. Because the initiating cause of RA or RA flare affects the type of joint damage, initial inflammatory response, adaptive immune response, and potential molecular mimicry, we propose the �... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492429 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492435&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005263%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, estrogen replacement therapy may be a potential therapeutic approach for IOTVA besides postmenopausal patients. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492435 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492434&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005251%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Standard therapy, interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and ribavirin, remains the only available option for treatment of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, iron overload, a common finding among HCV patients, have a poor response to treatment with current therapy. These data suggest that both host and viral factors are involved in the determination of the outcome of the therapy. Currently, novel antiviral compounds focus on the development of indirect antiviral drugs. The process of the viral translation is considered as the potential therapeutic targets. Coincidentally, study has found that hepatic iron load enhances the levels of eukaryotic initiation factor 3 (eIF3), which is essential for HCV translation. Reversely, iron chelation could reduce eIF3 p170 translation... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492434 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492426&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005160%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: There is no denying that opioids are the most important analgesic drugs which are widely used in clinical situations. Still, prolonged administration of these drugs can cause to reduce their analgesic efficacy due to the development of tolerance. These drugs can also cause induction of hyperalgesia. In addition, long-term administration of opioids through reinforcing- and rewarding pathways of limbic system can result in expression of opioid dependence with the unintended consequences of opioid abuse/misuse and finally opioid addiction. As studies show, over-activity in cyclo-oxygenase pathways and production of prostaglandins due to long-term exposures of opioid have a critical role in the development of tolerance to antinociceptive effect of opioid, hyperalgesia, and opioid dep... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492426 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492424&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005147%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common disabling autoimmune disease in young adults which does not have an effective treatment. The prevalence of immune-mediated diseases is higher in developed countries with hygienic environments, suggesting that helminthic infection may protect from autoimmune diseases. Previously, we reported that soluble egg antigens (SEA) from Schistosoma japonicum suppressed experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS, through up-regulating T helper-2 (Th2) immune responses in both the peripheral and central target organs. Neurotrophins (NTs) are not exclusive to the nervous system. While immune cells, especially Th2 cells, can produce and secrete a variety of NTs resulting in neuroprotective immunity. NTs can also modulate immune re... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492424 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492424 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492423&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005111%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Sub-optimal nutrition during pregnancy has been shown to have long-term effects on the health of offspring in both humans and animals. The most common outcomes of such programming are hypertension, obesity, dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance. This spectrum of disorders, collectively known as metabolic syndrome, appears to be the consequence of nutritional insult during early development, irrespective of the nutritional stress experienced. For example, diets low in protein diet, high in fat, or deficient in iron are all associated with programming of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders when fed during rat pregnancy. In this paper, we hypothesise that the nutritional stresses act on genes or gene pathways common to all of the insults. We have termed these genes and/or gene pat... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492423 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492428&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005184%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The hypothesis of the evolutionary origin of bipolar disorder (EOBD) synthesized ideas about the biological clock and seasonal shifts in mood (Rosenthal, Wehr) with theorizing that bipolar disorder descends from a pyknic (compact, cold-adapted) group (Kretchmer). The hypothesis suggested that bipolar behaviors evolved in the northern temperate zone as highly derived adaptations to the selective pressures of severe climatic conditions during the Pleistocene. Given evidence of Neandertal contributions to the human genome, the hypothesis is extended (EOBD-R) to suggest Neandertal as the ancestral source for bipolar vulnerability genes (susceptibility alleles). The EOBD-R hypothesis explains and integrates existing observations: bipolar disorder has the epidemiology of an adaptation;... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492428 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492427&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005172%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Up to date research on Bipolar Disorders’ phenomenology is in keeping with early descriptions made by E. Kraëpelin regarding the overlap in clinical presentation of both manic and depressive symptoms, namely, mixed states. The latter constitute a highly prevalent and characteristic clinical presentation of Bipolar Disorders’ and entail therapeutic difficulties, prognostic implications and increased suicidal risk. Notwithstanding, mixed states’, more specifically mixed depression, have been underestimated and bypassed to the point where currently neither diagnostic criteria nor specific therapeutic recommendations are provided. In addition to the lack of agreement on nosography and diagnostic criteria, mixed depression is usually excluded from Bipolar Disorders’ neurobiol... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492427 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492425&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005159%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Inability to enjoy normally pleasurable experiences (anhedonia) is a symptom common both to major depression and schizophrenia. It also regularly accompanies and follows stress, and its presence in the two mental illnesses could depend on the fact that both are facilitated and often preceded by stressful events. Anhedonia might possibly accompany stress because the loss of the pleasure of aiming for a goal and achieving it (including defending oneself and escaping from a danger) could lead to immobility, and immobility (playing dead) offers the extreme chance of safety when an animal is facing the worst possible stressful situation – being seized by a predator – as in this case any movement can further stimulate the predator’s aggressiveness.Perceiving and connecting sensor... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492425 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492405&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100483X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Symptoms and signs of patients with focal vulvodynia or vulvo-vestibulitis syndrome (VVS) are variable in location and severity. It is not known whether the location of the most severe pain in the vestibulum is linked to the complaints and perhaps a different entity. A clinical gut feeling suggests that two distinct varieties of focal vulvodynia may be either focused at 2 points (5 and 7 o′ clock) or at 4 points (5, 7, 1 and 11 o′ clock).A questionnaire was filled out by 30 women with focal vulvodynia during 147 visits and checked for completeness by an independent study nurse. Another investigator to evaluated the clinical signs of VVS, blinded to the patients history or complaints. The visual analogue score (VAS) of pain experienced upon attempt of sexual contact was used a... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492405 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492404&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004828%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The symptoms of psychiatric illness are diverse, as are the causes of the conditions that cause them. Yet, regardless of the heterogeneity of cause and presentation, a great deal of symptoms can be explained by the failure of a single perceptual function – the reprocessing of ecological perception.It is a central tenet of the ecological theory of perception that we perceive opportunities to act. It has also been found that perception automatically causes actions and thoughts to occur unless this primary action pathway is inhibited. Inhibition allows perceptions to be reprocessed into more appropriate alternative actions and thoughts. Reprocessing of this kind takes place over the entire frontal lobe and it renders action optional. Choice about what action to take (if any) is th... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492404 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492422&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005007%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Macrolides are protein synthesis inhibitors exerting an action on the bacterial ribosome. The ribosomes coded for by the human mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) are similar to those from bacteria in size and structure. In addition, mitochondria are thought to have originated from a symbiotic relationship between an anaerobic proto-eukaryotic cell that engulfed an aerobic bacterium. Morphological changes of mitochondria have been observed in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Manic episodes associated with the use of antimicrobial agents have been described since the discovery of isoniazid. The oxidative stress induced in the neuronal mitochondria is thought to underlie this effect. The inhibition of GSK-3β in the intra-mitochondrial Akt signaling pathway is thought to c... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492422 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492421&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004993%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The neuroscientific understanding of chronic pain presented evolved through the integration of clinical, research and theoretical conceptualizations associated with chronic idiopathic orofacial pain after posing the following three questions: (1) What if chronic idiopathic orofacial pain was viewed from a neuroscientific perspective as part of a global syndrome rather than a site-specific anatomo-physiological perspective? (2) What if it was assumed that rather than serving no useful purpose chronic idiopathic orofacial pain served a useful purpose? (3) Would current knowledge be sufficient to explain chronic idiopathic orofacial pain? The understanding defines chronic pain as being a centrally perceived event expressing the continual or episodic persistence of a level of periphe... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492421 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492420&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004981%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Adiponectin, a 30-kDa peptide hormone discovered in the mid 1990s, is secreted abundantly and exclusively by adipose tissue. Adiponectin exists in three major forms: a low molecular weight (LMW) trimer, a medium molecular weight (MMW) hexamer, and a high molecular weight (HMW) 18–36 oligomer. The HMW oligomer has the most potent insulin-sensitizing activity therefore impaired adiponectin multimerization may lead to impaired glycemic control. Decreased ratio of HMW/total adiponectin has been observed in patients with obesity, type-2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance-related metabolic syndrome. Previous studies have indicated that berberine or aminoimidazole carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR)-induced activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492420 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492419&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100497X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The overwhelming majority of very preterm newborns receive at least one transfusion during their in hospital stay. However, despite two recent randomised trials, the appropriate haemoglobin transfusion threshold in these high risk infants remains unclear. Typically, clinicians consider gestation, chronologic age and illness severity in order to determine the need for transfusion. There is, however, no simple way to balance these heterogeneous variables in order to arrive at a transfusion threshold without considering the prevailing oxygen physiology. This is particularly important during the transition to extra-uterine life, a time when the risk of brain injury is highest. We hypothesise that dysregulated cerebral oxygen handling, characterised by restricted oxygen consumption fr... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492419 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492409&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004877%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States (US). Obesity has been recognized as a modifiable risk factor for many diverse diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer burden. Common contributors to obesity include a high fat diet, smoking and physical inactivity. Systemic effects of obesity include increased micro-inflammatory molecules such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) that influence the both endothelial and epithelial layers as well as the supportive stroma. An emerging risk factor for micro-inflammation also includes periodontal disease. These pro-inflammatory states are hypothesized to contribute to diabetes as well as cardiovascular disease and cancer through the direct activation of NF-κB. Therefore, a comprehensive health care strategy woul... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492409 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396589&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004786%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Lumbar foraminal stenosis is a common pathological change, and lumbar nerve root compression in stenotic foramina was recently considered as one of the main causes of low back pain and leg pain. However, the exact mechanism of lumbar nerve root compression in foramina is still not clear. Previous studies indicated that loss of the intervertebral disc height could reduce the cross-sectional area of lumbar foramina, while lumbar nerve root compression by boundaries of foramina has not been observed in experimental reduction of the intervertebral disc height. Given the close anatomic relationship between transforaminal ligaments and lumbar nerve roots, we hypothesize that transforaminal ligament can be the leading cause of lumbar nerve root compression in foraminal stenosis. We also... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396589 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492417&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004956%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most common inflammatory diseases affecting large number of patients globally. The pathogenesis of CRS is still unclear and the treatment is unsatisfied. Clinical data provide the evidence that the chilblain-like alteration occurs in the early pathophysiology of CRS. We hypothesize that thermotherapy may offer a novel possible treatment strategy of chronic rhinosinusitis. In this article, we discuss the possibility of the chilblain-like alteration in the early pathophysiology and a therapeutic role of thermotherapy. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492417 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492415&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004932%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: As a severe clinical syndrome, acute liver failure (ALF) is associated with high morbidity and mortality and liver transplantation is the best treatment of choice in most critically-ill cases, which yet suffers from obvious drawbacks including lack of resources and unnecessary surgery for those who can recover spontaneously. In ALF, massive cell deaths occur whereas liver regeneration via hepatocyte proliferation is largely inhibited. The serine/threonine kinase Akt serves as a central role in regulating signaling of growth factors, cytokines and other cellular stimuli within cell and thus correlates with diverse cellular functions, including the pro-survival pathway by inducing hypertrophy. Physiologically, cellular hypertrophy is an adaption in response to increased functional ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492415 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492414&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004920%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A recent meta-analysis examining long-term mortality in subjects who participated in controlled studies evaluating the impact of daily aspirin on vascular risk, has concluded that aspirin confers substantial protection from cancer mortality. Remarkably, low-dose aspirin was as effective as higher-dose regimens; hence this protection may be achievable with minimal risk. There is reason to believe that this protection stems primarily from inhibition of cox-2 in pre-neoplastic lesions. Since safe aspirin regimens can only achieve a partial and transitory inhibition of cox-2, it may be feasible to complement the cancer-protective benefit of aspirin with other measures which decrease cox-2 expression or which limit the bioactivity of cox-2-derived PGE2. Oxidative stress boosts cox-2 e... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492414 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492406&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004841%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the search for ‘pure autism’, non-verbal children labeled aloof, Severely Autistic with Developmental Disabilities (ASA/DD), are routinely excluded from psychological research. This exclusion is predicated on the claim that they are indistinguishable from those with SLD/PMLD, which is refuted through a discussion of the extant literature. A novel, falsifiable, speech aversion hypothesis is proposed: “aloof, non-verbal young children (2–3 words), but not to a silent interlocutor, or one imitating their vocalizations, in proximal encounters.” Implications are examined by deconstructing the presenting symptoms of ASA/DD in response to the hypothesis. Supporting evidence is drawn from: Minimal Speech Approach (MSA) research showing high levels of spontaneous requests for... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492406 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396570&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004580%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Evidence indicates that smokers have hyperalgesia perioperatively as characterized by a higher postoperative pain score as well as increased requirements of opioids during surgery and postoperative patient-controlled analgesia compared with non-smokers. The possible mechanism of hyperalgesia for smokers is related to nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) desensitization as well as competitive occupancy for binding sites. For smokers, high doses of opioids are needed perioperatively whereas small doses of nicotine do not reduce postoperative opioid requirements. Nicotine replacement treatment has been proved to be effective only for non-smokers. The serotonergic system plays an important part in modulating anti-nociception, and decreasing the concentration of serotonin in vesic... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396570 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5321269&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711005032%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5321269 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 09:48:41 +0100 5321269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492416&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004944%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In endemic pemphigus foliaceus (EPF) or “fogo selvagem” the epidemiological evidence shows that all the described outbreaks occur on the banks of rivers where there is mercury contamination from alluvium gold mining and deforestation.Pathophysiological evidence shows a similarity to pemphigus induced by sulphydryl (SH−) drugs that act by denaturing cadherins at the desmosomal level, which are the pemphigus antigens. The sulfhydryl radical (SH−) call also thiol or mercaptans from the SH-drugs, act at the level of SH-groups of cystein as would the methyl mercury from the contaminated animals and fish in the diet of humans from endemic areas of pemphigus foliaceus. The methyl mercury would join the SH-groups from the cysteines amino acids from cadherin proteins in the skin. ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492416 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492413&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004919%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Skin barrier dysfunction is involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). The impaired barrier function is related to disturbed keratinocyte differentiation through improper Ca2+-regulated pathway in AD. Transient receptor potential canonical (subtype) 6 (TRPC6) is a Ca2+-permeable nonselective cation channel expressed in keratinocytes. TRPC6 contributes to the process of keratinocyte differentiation by regulating Ca2+ influx. Furthermore, TRPC6 alone is considered to be sufficient for nearly full physiological response of keratinocyte differentiation. Until now, the correlation between TRPC6 and AD has not been investigated. We hypothesize that dysfunction of TRPC6 may trigger the process of AD, and that restoring or enhancing the activity of TRPC6 may serve as a new m... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492413 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492412&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004907%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease (NTMLD) in immunocompetent patients is an increasingly important epidemiologic concern. However, risk factors associated with susceptibility to NTMLD are not completely known. A prevalence of NTMLD appears to be rising, mainly in some populations such as middle-aged or elderly thin women, (a group including those with Lady Windermere syndrome) with neither remarkable history of respiratory disease nor smoking habit. Right middle lobe (RML) and lingula are often involved. Various predisposing factors and genetic defects have been described as possible causes of development of NTMLD, namely: voluntary suppression of cough, RML anatomical factors, menopause and mutations in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Malnutri... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492412 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492411&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004890%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Both genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role in the etiology of sarcoidosis. An association of the condition with exposure to environmental microbes has been recognized for many years, and has become stronger in the last 10–15years with the advent of newer investigative techniques. A body of literature now is accumulating suggesting that silica may be yet another trigger in genetically predisposed persons.Impressive support for an etiologic role of mycobacteria derives from earlier studies by several investigators in Japan and in Europe and more recently from the US in Baltimore and Nashville. Other investigators have produced evidence that propionibacteria and fungi can also act as environmental triggers in sarcoidosis patients.We propose that, in an anima... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492411 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492410&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004889%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: TNF-α is a central regulator of inflammation and its blockade downregulates other pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. Subsequently, TNF-α antagonists are currently used in treatment regimens directed toward several inflammatory diseases. Despite a beneficial effect, the use of TNF-α antagonists is associated with an increased risk for infections and neoplasms; the basis for these complications is unclear. This cytokine also participates in iron homeostasis and the sequestration of this metal, mediated by TNF-α, is considered protective. We hypothesize that treatment with TNF-α antagonists predisposes the patient to infections and neoplasms by reversing the sequestration of host iron mediated by the cytokine and increasing available concentrations of t... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492410 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396539&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711003811%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: With the advances of nanotechnology in recent years, our understanding of the therapy of cancers has deepened and the development of new technologies for cancer diseases has emerged. Here, with the recent discoveries of nanomagnetic fluids as well as microgravity effects upon cancerous cells, we suggest an innovative method of treating tumor using magnetic fluid-modeled microgravity. Magnetic fluids are delivered by outside magnetic field to tumor issue either intravenously or through direct injection, and this is followed by application of an uniform external magnetic field that causes microgravity. The modeled microgravity is to inhibit cancerous cells growth and invasion. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396539 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396537&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004117%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The first conjugate vaccine was approved for use in the US in 1988 to protect infants and young children against the capsular bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Since its introduction in the US, this vaccine has been approved in most developed countries, including Denmark and Israel where the vaccine was added to their national vaccine programs in 1993 and 1994, respectively.There have been marked increases in the reported prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) among children in the US beginning with birth cohorts in the late 1980s and in Denmark and Israel starting approximately 4–5years later. Although these increases may partly reflect ascertainment biases, an exogenous trigger could explain a significant portion of the reported increases in ASDs. It is hy... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396537 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492418&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004968%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We posit that: (i) light alcohol consumption during pregnancy does not improve the cognitive development of human offspring and (ii) observational study outcomes indicating apparent protective effects arise from residual confounding due to socioeconomic status. Our hypotheses counter emerging hypotheses apparent in the epidemiological literature that light alcohol consumption during pregnancy improves offspring’s cognitive development. Determining the plausibility of this proposition is important given its potential to influence women’s alcohol consumption behavior during pregnancy. However, given ethical concerns, it is unlikely that a randomized control trial will be conducted to test this hypothesis. The veracity of alcohol’s purported positive effect on cognitive develo... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492418 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492407&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004853%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury, with headache being the most frequent symptom of mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) (including dizziness, vomiting, nausea, lack of motor coordination or difficulty balancing). Concussion may be caused by a blow to the head, or by acceleration forces without a direct impact. Often, MTBI occurs as the result of a sports injury. Loss of consciousness is always present, unlike vomiting. Therefore, we hypothesize vomiting to be considered as a cardinal sign of concussion. Stimulation of vomiting centres finally triggers vomiting. Professional boxers and mixed martial arts competitions reluctantly agree with stringent rules and protective clothing. We discuss the issue of further protection for those engaged in these and ot... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492407 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396587&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004762%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Circadian rhythms are daily oscillations in physiology and behaviour that recur with a period of 24h, and that are entrained by the daily photoperiod. The cycle of sunrise and sunset provided a reliable time cue for many thousands of years, until the advent of artificial lighting disrupted the entrainment of human circadian rhythms to the solar photoperiod. Circadian desynchrony (CD) occurs when endogenous rhythms become misaligned with daily photoperiodic cycles, and this condition is facilitated by artificial lighting.This review examines the hypothesis that chronic CD that has accompanied the availability of electric lighting in the developed world induces a metabolic and behavioural phenotype that is predisposed to the development of obesity. The evidence to support this hypo... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396587 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396584&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004725%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A neuroprotective strategy through a combination therapy is always being superior to any other singular therapeutic interventions, as these acts through a multifauceted approach within the brain during cerebral ischemia. Therefore, the development of a potential new combination of drug is necessitated which can bring about desirable improved neuroprotection targeting different pathways against ischemic stroke. Numerous past studies have enumerated the neuroprotective roles of minocycline and magnesium administered in single against cerebral ischemia in animal model hence we hypothesized that by using magnesium with minocycline in combination would provide additive neuroprotection than either of the agents used alone. In this article, we discuss our hypothesis regarding the possib... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396584 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396581&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004695%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The epidemic of overweight and obesity around the world and in the US is a major public health challenge, with 1.5 billion overweight and obese adults worldwide, and 68% of US adults and 31% of US children and adolescents overweight or obese. Obesity leads to serious health consequences, including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease. Current preventive and medical treatments include lifestyle modification, medication, and bariatric surgery in extreme cases; however, they are either not very efficacious or are very expensive. Obesity is a complex condition involving the dysregulation of several organ systems and molecular pathways, including adipose tissue, the pancreas, the gastrointestinal tract, and the CNS. The role of the CNS in obesity is receivin... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396581 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492403&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004804%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide. Oncoplastic surgery and partial-breast reconstruction have already developed to improve cosmetic outcomes. However, new strategies for breast diseases are still needed. The principles of evolutionary biology and phylogeny can help solve specific medical problems. But the phylogeny of human breast areola had not been researched ever since proposed. The breast areola has a unique phylogeny, it has all different types of skin glands and includes a few hairs towards the periphery. These skin appendages, including Montgomery’s glands – whose miniature mammary acini are in the subcutaneous tissue – make the dermal microvascular “sink” phenomenon imperfect, resulting in that more drug molecules can penetrate into ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492403 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5492402&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004798%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Malignant tumors in an advanced phase of diffusion have a very poor prognosis. However, there are conditions in the body which may impede, even if only partially, further spread of the disease. In addition to currently available treatments, other favorable conditions can help to improve the prognosis, even if only relatively, such as the presence of inhibitors of metalloproteinases, antiangiogenic factors, the absence of particular proteins that favor tumor development, and the possibility of positively activating the immune system. The authors believe that in cases where such conditions are concurrent, the addition of a new favorable condition could be very useful. On the other hand, cases of total spontaneous regression of malignancies, even if in metastatic diffusion, are well... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5492402 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5492402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396590&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004737%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Around 90% of cancer deaths can be ascribed to metastases , usually highly glycolytic. Rodent models are used when developing drugs to attack these cancers. There is a 95% attrition rate for these drugs entering human trials . (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396590 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396586&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004750%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Deep brain stimulation of the pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPTg) had usually been reported to improve the symptoms of advanced Parkinson’s disease. Previous studies showed that neurons in the PPTg involved in the control of the sympathetic outflow to the kidneys. Our recent studies using transneuronal labeling pseudorabies virus (PRV)-614 supported the sympathetic nature of the caudal PPTg. We propose a hypothesis that deep brain stimulation of the PPTg may influence renal function by serotonergic and catecholaminergic pathways. Because PRV-614/tryptophan hydroxylase and PRV-614/tyrosine hydroxylase double-labeled neurons in the compact parts of PPTg (cpPPTg) were not detected, deep brain stimulation of the cpPPTg might not influence renal function. (Source: Medical Hypo... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396586 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396585&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004749%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: During summer and autumn 2009 Norway, like several other European countries, experienced an unexpected delay in the progress of the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus. It is considered whether interference with other respiratory viruses, in particular rhinoviruses, may have hampered the development of the influenza pandemic, and if interference phenomena are common in the development of outbreaks with epidemic viruses. If so, cytokines, in particular interferon, are the most probable executor of this effect. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396585 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396583&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004713%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Oral pre-malignancies and carcinomas are common epithelial pathologies caused by a variety of etiological factors. In the oral cavity, candidiasis is the most frequent opportunistic fungal infection. Since the initial reports of an association between candidiasis with oral pre-cancer and cancer, various theories have been debated regarding the role of candida in development and transformation of oral pre-malignancies. However, the exact role is still unclear. In the present article, we hypothesize a causal role for candidiasis in oral pre-cancer and cancer albeit an indirect one. We also suggest that candida along with other co-factors may play a role in initiation and promotion of carcinogenesis. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396583 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5549561&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004816%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Limited but provocative ecologic epidemiology suggests that dietary salt may play a central role in the genesis of not only of stroke, but also dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Impairment of nitric oxide bioactivity in the cerebral microvasculature is a likely mediator of this effect. Salted diets evoke increased adrenal secretion of the natriuretic steroid marinobufagenin (MBG), which promotes natriuresis via inhibition of renal tubular Na+/K+-ATPase; this effect is notably robust in salt-sensitive rodent strains in which other compensatory natriuretic mechanisms are subnormally efficient. MBG-mediated inhibition of sodium pumps in vascular smooth muscle likely plays a role in the hypertension induced by salty diets in these rodents. However, salt sensitivity in humans... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5549561 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5549561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396588&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004774%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) as key players of the immune system are exposed to numerous triggers including exogenous and endogenous factors. Autonomous nerve activity, melatonin, hormones such as vitamin D and glucocorticoids as well as the exposure to sunlight and microorganisms shape our immunological profile. The complexity of this system is highlighted by the power of each single trigger but more impressive by influencing each others function and potentials directly and indirectly. However, while monocausal correlations of single triggers on Tregs have been studied at length, there is much less known about the impact of numerous coexistent triggers on the dynamics of Treg activity. It can be hypothesized that the dynamics of Treg activity plays a crucial role for the control o... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396588 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396582&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004701%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is hypothesised that seemingly disparate and unrelated phenomena clustering in persons of African descent living in the Americas such as outstanding sprinting ability and high prostate cancer incidence and mortality are in fact related and emerge from enhanced testosterone responsiveness in descendants of African slaves surviving the transatlantic trade in Africans. It is postulated that the ability to have survived the middle passage was positively correlated with greater responsiveness of the androgen receptor to its primary ligands dihydrotestosterone and testosterone, and that slaves possessing more responsive androgen receptors experienced a survival advantage engendered by the enhanced anabolic effects which accrued such as increased red cell mass and therefore greater o... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396582 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396577&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004658%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) is considered as a long-term complication of spinal fusion procedure. Numerous clinical studies have reported some factors related with ASD, but few could address the reason why the incidence of caudal ASD is significantly lower than that of cranial ASD. Because the pedicle of vertebral arch is closer to the superior endplate of vertebrea and its cranial intervertebral disc, there might be some possibilities of malpositions of pedicle probe or screws into the superior vertebral endplate or disc during the procedure of posterior intervertebral fusion. A number of evidences have showed that puncture of intervertebral disc will result in disc degeneration. Thus the authors put forward the hypothesis that intraoperative malposition of pedicle probe... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396577 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396576&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004646%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease and obesity constitutes a risk factor for the disease. Obese patients with psoriasis are often more difficult to treat and are at increased risk for dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Case reports suggest that gastric bypass surgery in patients with psoriasis may result in complete remission of the disease. A substantial weight loss is achieved in the months following surgery, which is likely to reduce psoriasis symptoms and risk of comorbidities. Interestingly, however, it has been described that improvement of psoriasis is initiated immediately following surgery before any weight loss could have happened. We hypothesize that the glucose-lowering gut incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396576 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396580&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004683%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Multiple hematological side effects have been reported to result from treatment with psychoactive phenothiazines. These reported toxicities include leucopenia, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis, and bone marrow aplasia. The physiological mechanism causing these potentially life-threatening blood dyscrasias is unknown. Recently, we discovered that phenothiazines exhibit antagonistic properties towards the VLA-4 integrin, an adhesion molecule that is responsible for homing and retention of hematological stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) in the bone marrow. After administration of thioridazine we detected rapid mobilization of HSPCs into the peripheral blood. We propose that in patients receiving phenothiazines over a prolonged time period, continuous mobilization of s... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396580 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396579&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004671%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The dopamine receptor gene DRD3 and in particular the single nucleotide polymorphism Ser9Gly has been extensively investigated and found to have potential association with a wide variety of conditions. These include essential tremor, unipolar and bipolar depression, as well as a loose association with schizophrenia. Evaluation of (1) these known associations with DRD3, (2) the recent finding of Costas and colleagues that a haplotype containing Ser-9 is associated with protection from schizophrenia, and (3) an extant trait model of personality, leads to the hypothesis that an allele DRD3/Ser codes for trait aggression by Mendelian recessive inheritance. The implications of this hypothesis are that (1) DRD3 is a pleiotropic gene having allelic polymorphism related to both behavior ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396579 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396575&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004634%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An unexpected and novel finding is described and discussed here concerning the synaptic physiology of hippocampal slices during the period of recovery after brain dissection. Contrary to the common notion that the amplitude of synaptic responses recovers in a single exponential rising fashion, we found that synaptic response amplitude displayed an oscillatory pattern. The period of oscillation was of 6h and its frequency depended on the input frequency of stimulation. Based on these preliminary data we can make an assumption that the recovery-associated oscillatory behavior of synaptic responses may be hippocampus specific. These data suggest the existence of a previously undescribed element that modifies the electrical properties underlying the modulation of synaptic responses i... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396575 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396574&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004622%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Elevated plasma homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and thrombosis, as well as a variety of other pathologies such as birth defects, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, osteoporosis, diabetes and renal disease. Homocysteine metabolism is catalyzed by a number of enzymes that require B-vitamins as cofactors, and homocysteine levels are particularly responsive to folate status. The predictive power of plasma homocysteine level as a risk factor for atherothrombotic orders raised the appealing hypothesis that reduction of homocysteine levels by vitamin supplementation might result in a commensurate reduction is the risk of atherothrombotic events. Unfortunately, most clinical trials failed to show a significant benefit of vitamin supple... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396574 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396573&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004610%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Autophagy, the process involved in the breakdown of intracellular proteins and organelles, has become an area of great importance in both cell survival and cell death. Despite the abundance of information on this topic, persisting issues remain about the origin and mechanism of formation of the autophagosomal membrane. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays a critical role in the initiation of autophagy, especially in the formation of early lipid particles, termed the phagophores or the isolation membranes. The bulk, if not all of the lipid biosynthetic pathways cease at the level of the ER where the main synthesizing enzymes are resident proteins. We postulate that if the initial isolation membrane is formed from the locally synthesized lipids at the level of the ER, than an incre... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396573 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396572&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004609%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Blood-borne pathogens (BBP) represent remarkable occupational risks for healthcare workers (HCWs). Avoiding occupational blood exposure is a basis of prevention of the blood-borne pathogens (BBP). The effectiveness of the prevention strategies depends on the compliance and adherence to the program by healthcare-facility personnel. The aim of this study was to evaluate Turkish HCWs’ compliance with Universal Precautions (UP). An analytic, cross-sectional, countrywide survey study was performed in hospital settings, (n=5145) in 30 hospitals in 19 cities. In total, 1726 of the 5143 (33.6%) participants’ behaviors were accepted as satisfactory for compliance with UP. The hepatitis knowledge levels of 2,650 (51.5%) participants were found to be satisfactory. In the multivariate an... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396572 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396578&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100466X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is regarded as an important cause of low back pain, which continues to be a common disability. IDD is thought to involve sequential changes of intervertebral disc that lead to the reduction of disc cells and the extracellular matrix. In addition, inflammation is crucially involved in IDD. Currently, there is urgent need to develop biological therapies for IDD that can both relieve symptoms and directly reverse the process of degeneration. Rhein (RH) is an anthraquinone molecule with the abilities of enhancing the synthesis of matrix components and inhibiting inflammatory response. Recently, the metabolic precursor of RH called diacerein has been demonstrated to have significant effects on pain relief and function improvement in the treatment... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396578 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396571&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004592%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This paper hypothesizes that a stenosis or obstruction at a lower extremity of an internal jugular vein (IJV) would, in accordance with the physics of fluid dynamics, cause a standing pressure wave within the vein. This pressure wave would possess regions of large pressure fluctuations and other regions of relatively little fluctuation which also have substantially lower peak pressure values. If the wavelength of the hypothesized pressure wave is comparable to the distance from the obstruction to the venule end of the capillary bed, then a region of high pressure fluctuation would exist at the venules. Depending on the degree of obstruction, the pressure fluctuations at the venules of the capillary bed would be substantially greater than those that would exist in a healthy unobst... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396571 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396565&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004488%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered as an autoimmune disease that intermittently causes the chronic and acute inflammation of the patient’s small joints which can destroy the tissues around the joints resulting in the limitation of the joint’s function. In the synovium and synovia of the joints, the infiltration and/or phagocytosis of the different kinds of leucocytes were demonstrated according to the phases of the acute and chronic inflammation. Also, Siglecs (sialic acid binding Ig-like lectins) were reported on the leucocytes which can induce the active and inhibitory immune response by the specific binding with sialic acid on the conjugates including the sialylation of the immunoglobulin which has been reported there was striking increasing in the synovium and synovi... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396565 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396569&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004579%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still a primary cause of death in most countries. The pathogenesis of CVD can be influenced by multiple risk factors. Recent studies suggested that the innate immune system may be involved in the development of CVD. Pentraxins are critical components of the innate immune system. Recent researches have demonstrated that elevated plasma pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is associated with cardiovascular events and cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, we hypothesized that elevated plasma PTX3 is a potential cardiovascular risk factor evidenced by the following aspects: (1) PTX3 inhibited angiogenesis and promoted restenosis, (2) the expression of PTX3 increased in advanced atherosclerotic lesions and the blood of patients with ischemic heart disorders, (3) elevated pl... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396569 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396568&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004567%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Pheromones are a mysterious world of chemical signals involved in conspecific communication. They play a number of key functions important for preservation of life of individual organisms, for their defence, survival of offspring and preservation of species. The best-known groups of pheromones include: trail pheromones, territorial pheromones, sex pheromones, aggregation pheromones, dispersion pheromones, repellent pheromones, social pheromones and alarm pheromones. Alarm pheromones are pheromones that are emitted by animals in threatening situations and inform members of the same species of danger. The identified alarm pheromones are synthesised by insects and aquatic organisms. Also humans are able to emit and perceive pheromones. Although alarm pheromones have not been isolate... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396568 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396567&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004555%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Down Syndrome (DS) is the most frequent genetic pathology. It affects 1 out of every 800 newborn babies. Approximately between a 90% and a 95% of all the cases of DS are attributed to a trisomy in chromosome 21. One of the genes contained in this chromosome is the gene of β-amyloid precursor protein (βAPP). The metabolism of this protein yields, among others, the amyloid beta peptides made up of 40 amino acids (Aβ40) and 42 amino acids (Aβ42). The evidence that is derived from several sources – genetic, among them – suggests that the Aβ participates in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).It is worth pointing at the fact that the transfer of cells, extracellular chromosomal material and some proteins from the fetus to the mother and vice versa has been widely d... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396567 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396566&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004543%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The high mortality of highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) viruses infection in humans gives rise to considerable concern that it might someday cause another lethal pandemic. At present there is no other effective alternative besides the early and enough administration of neuraminidase inhibitors, which may be crucial for the patient management. However, its efficacy is sometimes limited because of the late administration in some patients especially the seriously ill ones and the continual occurrence of oseltamivir resistant A (H5N1) strains. The specific candidate vaccine are still under development and the practical value of passive immunization is hard to be widely applied because of the scarcity of convalescent human plasma, especially in the early stage of a serious an... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396566 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396538&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711003380%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Gastric cancer has high prevalence and high modality worldwide. For many years, few improvements in the efficacy of treatments were reported for advanced gastric cancer settings. Although a novel molecular target agent trastuzumab, in combination with chemotherapy, prolongs overall survival time in advanced gastric cancer, resistance to this drug still exists among human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) positive patients. HER2 and erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) downstream signaling pathway have some common factors like Akt, Erk and STATs. Also there exist evidences that EPOR may express on some solid tumors and probably promote tumor progression. So it is reasonable for us to hypothesis that HER2 and EPOR may be co-expressed in the same gastric cancer cell and if so, EPO... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396538 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396562&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004440%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The pancreas, liver and hypothalamus have a regulatory function in the glucose homeostasis. As the blood glucose level changes, these compartments react and the level changes again. Subsequently to this reaction, the interstitial glucose level changes with some delay. In this paper, I propose a hypothesis that the change of the blood glucose level includes information about the estimated rate with which the hypothalamus expects the blood glucose level to return to normal range, by means of regulatory mechanisms of glucose homeostasis. As the interstitial glucose level change reflects the blood glucose level change, I propose a method to estimate the blood-to-interstitial glucose level delay. It is an important factor for glucose level prediction. Once the delay was calculated, it... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396562 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396564&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004476%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The persistent use of different forms of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is an under-investigated issue in medical research. While the data concerning the proportion of long-term users in the population of total NRT users seems reassuring at first glance, we must recognize that the small relative numbers (proportions) conceal a population of persistent NRT users with a considerable absolute number of members. Furthermore, only a small amount of data is available concerning the safety of persistent NRT use. At the present time we therefore have no basis for declaring that the population of long-term users are under cover (we are only able to state that persistent use of NRT is undoubtedly safer than the continuation of smoking). Consequently, there is a need to conduct large-sc... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396564 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396563&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004464%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Most research concerning the pathology of autism is focused on the search for central abnormalities that account for the production of symptoms. We, however, instead of looking at muscular and auditory features as merely associated manifestations, propose that they are somatic contributors by which some of the main clinical features of autism might be explained. Evidence suggests that muscles affect emotional experience. We think certain muscular dysfunctioning can impair communication and social interaction, and create stereotypic behavior, giving rise to the diagnostic features of autism. Furthermore, because speech is synchronized with facial movements and voice is controlled mainly through auditory feedback, a distortion of auditory feedback could disrupt voice, which in turn... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396563 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396560&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004427%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are the current standard of care in postmenopausal women with hormone-responsive breast cancer in adjuvant setting due to their superiority over tamoxifen, in terms of disease-free survival. It is clear that AIs result in bone loss during the course of the treatment and many patients need to receive bisphosphonates and vitamin D supplementation during AI treatment. Emerging evidence shows that bisphosphonates have antitumor effects. In addition, the beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation on reducing breast cancer incidence and recurrence have recently been published. Thus, could the superiority of AIs over tamoxifen be related to increased need of bisphosphonate use and vitamin D supplementation? Although, at present, there is no concrete evide... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396560 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396559&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004415%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This note illustrates a novel method to measure the dynamics of pathological states using primary biliary cirrhosis as a prototype disease manifesting a dynamic course. The basis of the new method is the evaluation of liver sections using quantitative metrical concepts able to provide scalars useful for statistical purposes while abandoning the qualitative or semi-quantitative commonly used categorizations. The metrical measurements are provided by our fully automated machine coined the Metrizer. The method includes physical determinators that describe the history of the pathologic event with the time-related changes occurring in the liver tissue sections. The vectorial sum of the areas covered by two irreversible determinators (cytokeratin 7 positive cells representing ductular ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396559 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396558&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004300%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Because boys are four times more likely than girls to develop autism, the role of male hormones (androgens) has received considerable scrutiny. Some researchers implicate arginine vasopressin, an androgen-dependent hormone from the pituitary gland that elicits male behavior. Elevated vasopressin is also the most common cause of low blood sodium (hyponatremia) – most serious in the brains of children. Hyponatremia causes astrocytes to swell, then release the amino acids taurine and glutamine and their water to compensate. Taurine – the brain osmolyte/inhibitory neurotransmitter that suppresses vasopressin – was the amino acid most wasted or depleted in urine of autistic children. Glutamine is a critical metabolic fuel in brain neurons, astrocytes, endothelial cells, and the ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396558 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5321277&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711003458%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The physiological function of fructosamine-3-kinase (FN3K) is relatively well understood. As shown in several studies, most conclusively by data on the FN3K-KO mouse , this enzyme breaks down compounds produced by the non-enzymatic glycation of proteins by d-glucose. In contrast with FN3K, very little is known about the function of the fructosamine-3-kinase-related-protein (FN3KRP) even though it has a 65% amino-acid sequence identity with FN3K. We do know that this enzyme is a kinase as evidenced by its ability to phosphorylate non-physiological compounds such a psicosamines, ribulosamines, erythrulosamines, and glucitolamines. However, FN3KRP does not phosphorylate any of the numerous Amadori products that are the physiological substrates of FN3K. The fact that FN3KRP is highly... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5321277 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5321277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396555&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004270%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These cataplexy data suggest that common antidepressant taper rates may be far too brief. Patients who are doing well and ready to discontinue their antidepressant might experience fewer withdrawal effects and fewer relapses with rates much longer than those now routinely used. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396555 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5321299&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711003677%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic and insidious oral mucosal disease, which always carries high risk of transition to oral cancer. Mainly based on genetic predisposition in pharmacokinetics for toxic substances of betel quid, there are obviously variable responses to betel quid among chewers. But the key genes resulting in interindividual variability in OSF development are still obscure. The cytochrome P450 3A (CYP 3A) gene family plays major roles in the oxidative metabolism of active endogenous and xenobiotic substrates, which is generally found polymorphic with variant alleles in different individuals and regarded as a major determinant of the interindividual variability in chemicals pharmacokinetics. Based on the specific property of CYP 3A, we consider this polymorp... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5321299 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5321299 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5217531&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004336%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5217531 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:04:55 +0100 5217531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396561&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004439%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Exposure of human mononuclear cells to phycocyanin in vitro is reported to promote generation of Treg cells. Induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in lymphocytes has a similar effect, and it is not likely to be accidental that a key product of HO-1 activity, biliverdin, is homologous to the structure of phycocyanin’s chromophore phycocyanobilin (PhyCB). Moreover, Treg induction is observed in mice injected with bilirubin, biliverdin’s chief metabolite. These considerations suggest that bilirubin, generated within lymphocytes by HO-1 activation, may play a physiological role in the promotion of Treg immunomodulation. This effect of bilirubin is likely to be independent of NADPH oxidase inhibition, since the NAPDH oxidase activity of macrophages is necessary for Treg induction, ... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396561 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396557&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004294%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In addressing the question of what seems to prevent multiple sclerosis (MS) in the tropics this paper reviews work done by various researchers and suggests that MS incidence may be affected in the ensemble by the endocrine system’s response to environment temperature, the skin’s response to sunlight, and by the retina’s response to brightness. It shows how the hypouricemia which is a reliable indicator in MS patients can leave the blood–brain barrier unsealed in general but allow retinoids to block their access to the central nervous system. It presents published studies as evidence and suggests a number of straightforward tests of these theories which could allow clinicians to advise their MS patients to take appropriate actions to help slow down or prevent disease progr... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396557 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396552&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004221%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Aging is inevitable to all multi-cellular organisms, and each organism has its own lifespan. The species-specific lifespan seems determined genetically; however little is known about how the lifespan determined. During the last decades accumulative evidence indicates that there is certainly a set of genes that are involved in the lifespan determination. Among those dozens of genes, the Shc gene encoding a phosphotyrosine signal adaptor is of potential interests in mammalian aging and/or longevity determination. Shc is merely one form of a gene family, and accumulative evidence demonstrates the presence of additional Shc homologues that are strongly expressed in the nervous system. We hypothesize that lifespan is regulated primarily by the nervous system and/or brain, and neurally... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396552 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396551&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS030698771100421X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Involuntary medication is one of the coercive measures used in psychiatry. We argue that direct extrapolation of placebo and nocebo effects of psychiatric medication in the voluntary setting to the situation of coercive treatment is probably not justified. Both placebo and nocebo effects are based upon patient expectations about the medication, but, in general, patient expectations in settings of involuntary medication tend to be less positive than in voluntary settings. As a consequence, placebo effects are likely to be diminished in coercive treatment, while nocebo effects are probably increased. This may result in an overall decreased effectiveness of medication in coercive settings. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396551 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396549&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004191%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is the standard treatment for breast cancer patients with clinically negative axilla. For patients with positive sentinel lymph nodes, axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) was required. However, approximately a half of the SLNs-positive patients were found to have clear axillary lymph nodes after ALND, indicating that they had received unnecessary ALND without therapeutic benefit. Therefore, we propose a hypothesis for solution of this clinical problem. We defined the second echelon lymph nodes (SELNs) as those nodes receiving lymphatic drainage directly from the SLNs. For patients with positive-SLNs, SELNs can be biopsy and assessed. If SELNs are negative, no more ALND was needed in these patients even if their SLNs are positive. If our hypothe... Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396549 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5396536&cid=s_38552_61_f&fid=38552&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medical-hypotheses.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0306987711004257%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this issue of the Journal, Brian J. Richmand presents a novel hypothesis to relate an apparent increase in autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to the introduction of conjugate vaccines to bacterial capsular carbohydrates. The proposal is based on parallel lines of evidence, epidemiologic and biologic. (Source: Medical Hypotheses) Medical Hypotheses journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5396536 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5396536