Interactions of human MSC with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell line PCI-13 reduce markers of epithelia-mesenchymal transition.

OBJECTIVES: Cancer progression is influenced by tumor microenvironment and communication of stromal cells and tumor cells. Interactions may enhance epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells through signaling proteins such as Wnt/beta-catenin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), as well as loss of cellular integrity, which affects invasion, progression, and metastasis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). In this study, we are testing the hypothesis that interactions of human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) with HNSCC might influence the expression of markers of EMT and tumor progression by co-culturing human MSC with the PCI-13 HNSCC line. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pooled MSCs were derived from the iliac bone marrow of seven patients and co-cultured in transwell permeable membrane wells with tumor cells of the established HNSCC cell line PCI-13 (UICC: T3, N1, M0). MSCs were characterized through fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Expression of Wnt3, E-cadherin, beta-catenin, MMP14, cathepsin b, and ETS1 was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS: We were able to show that co-culture of MSCs and PCI-13 leads to a significantly reduced expression of Wnt3, MMP14, and beta-catenin compared to controls, whereas the expression of cathepsin b and ETS1 was not significantly different between co-cultures and controls. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the interaction between MSCs and PCI-13 may suppress EMT in cancer cells. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The influence of MSCs can suppress the onset of EMT in HNSCC, affecting tumor progression and therapy.

Major histocompatibility complex haplotypes and complement C4 alleles in systemic lupus erythematosus. Results of a multicenter study.

In a multicenter study more than 300 central European systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients were examined for HLA-B, HLA-DR, and complement C4 phenotypes. For 174 SLE patients MHC haplotypes were determined by family segregation analysis, and for 155 patients C4 gene deletions were determined by TaqI restriction fragment length polymorphism. Two haplotypes, B8-C4AQ0-C4B1-DR3 and B7-C4A3-C4B1-DR2, were identified as risk factors for SLE. These findings were confirmed by applying the haplotype frequency difference (HFD) method, which uses nontransmitted haplotypes from the family study as internal controls. Furthermore, only HLA-DR2, but not DR3, B7, or B8, was significantly increased in SLE patients independently of the two risk haplotypes. C4A gene deletions, but not silent C4AQ0 alleles, were increased in SLE patients and neither C4BQ0 alleles nor C4B gene deletions were increased. The observed frequencies of homozygosity and heterozygosity for the two haplotypes and the frequencies of homozygotes for C4AQ0 and C4A deletions did not differ from the expected values, indicating that the risk for SLE is conveyed by single allele effects. In conclusion, there are two MHC-linked susceptibility factors for Caucasian SLE patients carried by the haplotypes B7-DR2 and B8-DR3. The results argue against C4Q0 alleles being the decisive factors increasing susceptibility to SLE.

Coronavirus cis-Acting RNA Elements.

Coronaviruses have exceptionally large RNA genomes of approximately 30 kilobases. Genome replication and transcription is mediated by a multisubunit protein complex comprised of more than a dozen virus-encoded proteins. The protein complex is thought to bind specific cis-acting RNA elements primarily located in the 5'- and 3'-terminal genome regions and upstream of the open reading frames located in the 3'-proximal one-third of the genome. Here, we review our current understanding of coronavirus cis-acting RNA elements, focusing on elements required for genome replication and packaging. Recent bioinformatic, biochemical, and genetic studies suggest a previously unknown level of conservation of cis-acting RNA structures among different coronavirus genera and, in some cases, even beyond genus boundaries. Also, there is increasing evidence to suggest that individual cis-acting elements may be part of higher-order RNA structures involving long-range and dynamic RNA-RNA interactions between RNA structural elements separated by thousands of nucleotides in the viral genome. We discuss the structural and functional features of these cis-acting RNA elements and their specific functions in coronavirus RNA synthesis.

[Interpretation of the x-ray signs of osteoporosis as special aspect of the new haemodynamic biostatic theory of osteoporosis (author's transl)]. / Interpretation der Osteoporosezeichen im Röntgenbild als Teilaspekt der neuen hämodynamisch-biostatischen Theorie der Osteoporose

Based on the author's new haemodynamic biostatic theory of osteoporosis the typical symptoms of osteoporosis are demonstrated by X-ray, revised, interpreted and completed. Atrophy of trabeculae related to osteoporosis, consequences for vertebrae bodies and vertebrae column are chronologically explained. Introduction and distribution of force are discussed and the special importance of muscular system and discs to maintain supporting capacity is emphasized.

Peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations in multiple myeloma.

Antisera raised against idiotypic determinants of myeloma proteins and macroglobulins have been used to differentiate peripheral blood lymphocytes populations from individual patients. I.D.-positive lymphocytes not resembling plasma cells have been regularly found in peripheral blood in these diseases. This lymphocyte population is heterogeneous with respect to non-tumor-specific surface markers, such as SRBC-, Fc- and C-receptors. Tumor specific idiotypic determinants will thus allow a more correct recognition of the total tumor cell compartment in these diseases.

Self-determination: the panacea for Canadian aboriginal people with disabilities?

Equal access and participation issues are at the forefront of the current disability advocacy movement. Disabled people worldwide are demanding a change in attitudes and policies reflecting their inherent right as citizens to full participation in society. The inequalities faced by the Canadian Aboriginal community with disabilities are magnified by unique socioeconomic, political, environmental, and cultural barriers. The current rate of disability in the Canadian Aboriginal population (31%) is double the national rate. The existing system available to Aboriginal people with special needs has often resulted in an unaccountable and ineffective web of service delivery. This paper documents various aspects of the existing structure of service delivery and the potential barriers to independent living for adults with disabilities living in remote First Nations communities in Northern Manitoba, Canada. Possible advantages and drawbacks to service provision in health transfer from the federal government to First Nation control are explored.

Speech language pathology services in Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: To provide a review of Speech Language Pathology services in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada, since its inception. Referral sources, reasons for referral and discharge will also be shown for seven of the communities in the Kivalliq Region. STUDY DESIGN: A quantitative and qualitative survey of the services received for the 26-month time period from January 2001 to February 28th, 2003. METHODS: A record review of Speech Language Pathology services was conducted. Referral sources in each community, the rate of referrals, reasons for discharge and changes in abilities of three clients were examined. RESULTS: The rate of referrals increased as the service became more familiar. Small increases in client abilities were noted over the specified time period. CONCLUSION: Speech Language Pathology services are being utilized more effectively as the referral sources become more familiar with the program.

Community based physiotherapy services in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: Community based physiotherapy services are an integral component of the recent implementation of a medical rehabilitation program in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut. Since the year 2000, the Inuit people of Canada's central Arctic have had direct access to physiotherapy in their home communities. STUDY DESIGN: A quantitative review of physiotherapy services from January 1, 2001 to December 31, 2002. METHODS: Workload measurement data gathered by the physiotherapists in the field will be utilized to present information on referral sources, location of services provided, client diagnoses and average duration of treatment provided. Administrative data will provide information on staffing complements and challenges to date. The need for physiotherapy referrals out of the Kivalliq Region will be reviewed. RESULTS: Referral sources to physiotherapy services are varied, the majority of diagnoses are musculoskeletal in nature, followed by neurological and cardiovascular. Recruitment of the physiotherapy positions has been successful to date. Referrals out of the region for physiotherapy services have been rare since community based services have begun. CONCLUSIONS: Access to physiotherapy services by the residents of the Kivalliq Region has been significantly enhanced since the implementation of the medical rehabilitation program.

Development of a community-based medical rehabilitation programme in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada.

OBJECTIVE: In 2000, the University of Manitoba and the Department of Health and Social Services of Nunavut, Canada, jointly embarked upon the development of a community-based medical rehabilitation programme in the Kivalliq Region of Canada's central Arctic. Two main objectives were identified in moving forward with the implementation of a rehabilitation programme. Firstly, to conduct a region wide community needs assessment for rehabilitation services for all age groups of all residents of the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut. Secondly, to provide information from which a community-based rehabilitation therapy programme could be developed. METHODS: A community needs assessment of the Kivalliq Region was carried out to guide the implementation of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech language pathology services. RESULTS: There are now two physiotherapists, one occupational therapist, and one speech language pathologist providing rehabilitation services to the residents of the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut. The results of this needs assessment, the challenges and successes of this medical rehabilitation programme are discussed. CONCLUSION: The total population of the service area is approximately 8,000 people, the significant majority of whom self-report as Inuit, and are widely dispersed over eight communities. Despite the challenges in terms of culture, geography and recruitment of introducing a rehabilitation program in Canada's north, the residents of the Kivalliq Region now have a viable model of receiving rehabilitative intervention in their home communities.

Obstructive respiratory disease in prairie dogs with odontomas.

The clinical manifestations of odontomas in prairie dogs are described. Familiarity with this disease is important because it is common, and the signs of this disease mimic other respiratory disorders.

[Soft tissue enhancement with injectable fillers for correction of age related folds and wrinkles]. / Allgemeine Ubersicht der gebräuchlichsten injizierbaren Weichgewebsfüller zur initialen Faltenbehandlung des Gesichts.

Injectable fillers for facial soft tissue enhancement have been developed and used for decades for the correction of age related folds and wrinkles. Many of the disadvantages of xenogenic and prior exogenous materials have been overcome with the advent of autologous and synthetic alternative materials. Autologous and synthetic injectable fillers herald a new era in the treatment of the aging face. Therefore this article will give an in-depth look at the implant choice, surgical approach, and possible complications and will provide a review of current injectable fillers for age related facial soft tissue augmentation.

[Valves in the orbital veins as the cause of orbital varix (author's transl)]. / Venenklappen als Ursache von Augenhöhlenvarizen.

Description of a 68-year-old woman with intermittent exophthalmus produced by valves in the orbital veins, which have not been described hitherto.

[Osteoporosis -- due to reduced blood circulation of bone (author's transl)]. / Osteoporose -- Folge einer verminderten Knochendurchblutung

According to a theory of the authors both senile osteoporosis and pathologic osteoporoses (rheumatic, in diabetes, bronchial asthma, pulmonary emphysema, portal hypertension and Cushing's disease) are due to disturbances of the circulation of the blood in bone. Every type of stasis in the sinusoids, be it due to reduced arterial supply or venous stasis or to a reduction of extravascular fluid-pressure will provoke an increase in osteoclastic activity and thus osteoporosis.

[Osteoporosis- more than a bone disease (author's transl)]. / Osteoporose - mehr als eine Knochenkrankheit!

Neither the bone-matrix theory of osteoporosis established by Albright in the 1940's nor the lack-of-calcium theory of the 1960's especially represented by Nordin, due to experimental tests and clinical results could be maintained. Here a new theory of osteoporosis is introduced, explaining osteoporosis not to be primarily a disfunction of calcium- or bone metabolism, but as a part-symptom of disfunction of the whole sustentaculum -bones, marrow, nucleus pulposus and musculation. Osteoporosis is predisposed by amyothenia respectively in activity and is initiated by reduced blood circulation of the sustentaculum. Certain relevant conclusions for prophylaxis and therapy of osteoporosis can be deduced without neglecting already the presently only effective therapy using sodium fluoride.

[Sociomedical significance and restabilization therapy of osteoporosis (author's transl)]. / Sozialmedizinische Bedeutung und restabilisierende Therapie der Osteoporose

Osteoporosis (physiological or pathological) is to be expected in about 7 million citizens of the Federal Republic. Fracture-promoting osseous atrophy, vertebral deformities limiting movement for maintenance of stability and skeletal pains due to muscular weakness and change of posture are the symptoms which frequently lead to disability. When osteoporosis turns to a disease in this way, then sodium fluoride therapy is recommended for reossification and restabilization of the bones. Prophylactically, for reduction of osteoporosis over the age of 40, light gymnastics, regular swimming and the avoidance of noxae which decrease the blood flow are to be advised.

[Metabolism and distribution of bupivacaine-experiments in rats I. Methods and metabolism (author's transl)]. / Tierexperimentelle Untersuchungen zu Metabolismus und Verteilung von Bupivacain I. Methodik und Metabolismus.

A method is described enabling blood concentrations and urinary and biliary excretion of bupivacaine to be estimated in unanaesthetized rats. After enteral application of bupivacaine, the urine volumes of 40 rats are collected, cleared off and analysed by gas chromatography. 5 fractions are obtained, of which the structures are identified by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. The following five metabolites could be identified: (1) Desbutyl-bupivacaine, (2) 3'-Hydroxy-bupivacaine, (3) N-Butylpipecolyl-2-amide, (4, 5) mono-hydroxylated isomeres on the piperidine ring.

[Metabolism and distribution of bupivacaine-experiments in rats. II. Distribution and elimination (author's transl)]. / Tierexperimentelle Untersuchungen zu Metabolismus und Verteilung von Bupivacain. II. Verteilung und Ausscheidung.

To avoid the influence of general anaesthetics on the functions of most organ systems, the present experiments were carried out in unanaesthetized rats. Blood concentrations in the aorta, V. portae and Vv. hepaticae as well as urinary and biliary excretions of bupivacaine were studied after either intravenous or enteral administration. From the course of the aortic bupivacaine concentrations after i.v. injection the following pharmacokinetic data were derived: t1/2 = 24,7 min; k2 = 1,467 h; V = 1,492 1. Absorption of bupivacaine from the jejunum is rapid. The hepatic clearance of bupivacaine in the rat is 12 ml/kg b.w..min-1. The biliary excretion of bupivacaine in the rat is very small; therefore the enterohepatic circulation of this substance may be considered neglible.