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European Journal of Pediatric Surgery :... Dec 2004Although ultrashort Hirschsprung's disease (UHD) was enzyme-histochemically characterised about 35 years ago, its existence is still often ignored. The aim of this study... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Although ultrashort Hirschsprung's disease (UHD) was enzyme-histochemically characterised about 35 years ago, its existence is still often ignored. The aim of this study is to summarise the clinical diagnostic, incidence, gender ratio, morphological characteristics, and therapy over 15 years.
METHODOLOGY
The reliable diagnosis of suspected UHD requires a minimal enema of contrast medium to exclude Hirschsprung's disease (HD). In UHD during pressing or crying no reflux of contrast medium is observed. Final proof of UHD is an enzyme-histochemical biopsy examination of distal rectal mucosa. The biopsies must demonstrate submucosa and be taken from the dentate line and 1 cm, 2 cm, 4 cm and 6 cm above the dentate line. The cryostat sections must be cut 15 microm thick; this thickness is reduced to 4.5 microm by the thawing, spreading and drying of the sections on microscope slides. A reliable diagnosis of UHD needs an enzyme-histochemical acetylcholinesterase reaction of native sections of rectal mucosa.
RESULTS
UHD develops with first symptoms of chronic constipation in the second half of the first year of life. The chronic constipation proves to be therapy resistant. In HD constipation occurs in the first weeks of life or after weaning. In contrast to HD, no nerve fibres with increased AChE activity are observed in the lamina propria mucosa. Nets of nerve fibres with increased AChE activity can be found only in the muscularis mucosa and the musculus corrugator cutis ani (MCCA). The therapy of choice has proven to be a partial myectomy of the distal internal sphincter if dilatation of the internal sphincter was ineffective. UHD is either limited to the anal ring, or extends 3 - 4 cm into the distal rectum. Over the past 15 years, UHD had in our series an incidence of 13.4 % of all aganglionoses. The gender ratio of girls to boys was 1 : 2.
CONCLUSION
UHD is reliably diagnosed by an AChE reaction in native biopsy sections from the anocutaneous transitional zone and, potentially, from 3 - 4 cm above the pectinate line. As UHD is always accompanied by aganglionosis of the distal internal sphincter, an increase in AChE activity is observed in the nerve fibres of the MCCA. The therapy of choice is a partial myectomy of the distal internal sphincter.
Topics: Acetylcholinesterase; Colon; Dilatation; Hirschsprung Disease; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Intestinal Mucosa
PubMed: 15630640
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-830354 -
Journal of Texture Studies Aug 2022Mixtures of mucin with pectin were investigated in a range of pectin to mucin ratios and pH values. The phase stability was first studied as absorbance measured at...
Mixtures of mucin with pectin were investigated in a range of pectin to mucin ratios and pH values. The phase stability was first studied as absorbance measured at 500 nm (turbidity). Co-existence of the two materials did not result in co-sedimentation or relevant phase separations, while lower pH enhanced aggregation and partial sedimentation of individual components, especially for mucin. The above are in line with the recorded zeta potential values, which are negative for both components at neutral pH and drop down to almost zero at acidic values. The sizes of the particles, as recorded by dynamic light scattering, show a similar trend to the absorbance values, indicating that phase separations are in line with events at the scale of a few hundred nm. Such interactions reflect in shear rheology: The viscosity corresponding to 50 s decreases upon substitution of pectin with mucin at pH 7 and 3, suggesting a flow dominated by changes in the space occupancy by the two components and by changes in the size of the self-assembled structures. The results were compared with those of more complex and typical hydrocolloids extracted from olive compost: The overall shape of the stability diagram of the two ingredients match, suggesting similar modes of action in the presence of mucin for other natural materials. These data throw some light in the norms during the co-existence of food polysaccharides and mucin in oral and gastrointestinal environments.
Topics: Colloids; Mucins; Pectins; Rheology; Viscosity
PubMed: 35578394
DOI: 10.1111/jtxs.12694 -
Physiologia Plantarum Mar 2012In this minireview, we evaluate all experimental work published on the phenomenon of aerobic methane (CH(4) ) generation in terrestrial plants and plant. Clearly,... (Review)
Review
In this minireview, we evaluate all experimental work published on the phenomenon of aerobic methane (CH(4) ) generation in terrestrial plants and plant. Clearly, despite much uncertainty and skepticism, we conclude that the phenomenon is true. Four stimulating factors have been observed to induce aerobic plant CH(4) production, i.e. cutting injuries, increasing temperature, ultraviolet radiation and reactive oxygen species. Further, we analyze rates of measured emission of aerobically produced CH(4) in pectin and in plant tissues from different studies and argue that pectin is very far from the sole contributing precursor. In consequence, scaling up of aerobic CH(4) emission needs to take into consideration other potential sources than pectin. Due to the large uncertainties related to effects of stimulating factors, genotypic responses and type of precursors, we conclude that current attempts for upscaling aerobic CH(4) into a global budget is inadequate. Thus it is too early to draw the line under the aerobic methane emission in plants. Future work is needed for establishing the relative contribution of several proven potential CH(4) precursors in plant material.
Topics: Ecosystem; Methane; Oxidation-Reduction; Pectins; Plant Leaves; Plant Physiological Phenomena; Plant Transpiration; Plants; Reactive Oxygen Species; Stress, Physiological; Temperature; Ultraviolet Rays
PubMed: 22136562
DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3054.2011.01551.x -
International Journal of Pharmaceutics Dec 2019In the present study, we successfully developed a cetuximab-conjugated modified citrus pectin-chitosan nanoparticles for targeted delivery of curcumin (Cet-MCPCNPs) for...
In the present study, we successfully developed a cetuximab-conjugated modified citrus pectin-chitosan nanoparticles for targeted delivery of curcumin (Cet-MCPCNPs) for the treatment of colorectal cancer. In vitro analyses revealed that nanoparticles were spherical with size of 249.33 ± 5.15 nm, a decent encapsulation efficiency (68.43 ± 2.4%) and a 'smart' drug release profile. 61.37 ± 0.70% of cetuximab was adsorbed to the surface of the nanoparticles. Cellular uptake studies displayed enhanced internalization of Cet-MCPCNPs in Caco-2 (EGFR +ve) cells, which ultimately resulted in a significant reduction in cancer cell propagation. The cell cycle analysis indicated that Cet- MCPCNPs induced cell death in enhanced percentage of Caco-2 cells by undergoing cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. These data suggest that Cet-MCPCNPs represent a new and promising targeting approach for the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Topics: Antineoplastic Agents; Caco-2 Cells; Cell Cycle Checkpoints; Cell Line, Tumor; Cetuximab; Chitosan; Colonic Neoplasms; Curcumin; Drug Delivery Systems; Drug Liberation; G2 Phase Cell Cycle Checkpoints; HCT116 Cells; Humans; Nanoparticles; Pectins
PubMed: 31678385
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118775 -
Carbohydrate Polymers Oct 2021Pectin is a plant-based heteropolysaccharide macromolecule predominantly found in the cell wall of plants. Pectin is commercially extracted from apple pomace, citrus... (Review)
Review
Pectin is a plant-based heteropolysaccharide macromolecule predominantly found in the cell wall of plants. Pectin is commercially extracted from apple pomace, citrus peels and sugar beet pulp and is widely used in the food industry as a stabilizer, emulsifier, encapsulant, and gelling agent. This review highlights various parameters considered important for describing the inherent properties and biofunctionalities of pectins in food systems. These inherent descriptors include monosaccharide composition, galacturonic acid content, degree of esterification, molecular weight, structural morphology, functional group analysis, and functional properties, such as water and oil holding capacity, emulsification, foaming capacity, foam stability, and viscosity. In this study, we also delineate their potential as a nutraceutical, prebiotic, and carrier for bioactive compounds. The biofunctionalities of pectin as an anticancer, antioxidant, lipid-lowering, and antidiabetic agent are also conceptually elaborated in the current review. The multidimensional characteristics of pectin make it a potential candidate for use in food and biomedical science.
Topics: Animals; Cell Line, Tumor; Emulsifying Agents; Humans; Hydrolysis; Molecular Structure; Pectins; Plants; Rheology; Structure-Activity Relationship; Viscosity
PubMed: 34294331
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118319 -
The American Journal of Forensic... Dec 1996The postmortem finding of anal dilation or an exposed pectinate line in children who have died under suspicious circumstances continues to raise the concern of possible...
The postmortem finding of anal dilation or an exposed pectinate line in children who have died under suspicious circumstances continues to raise the concern of possible sexual abuse. The following multicenter, collaborative study was designed to help address that question. Sixty-five subjects, ranging in age from birth to 17 years, were autopsied at three different sites. A standard protocol along with 35-mm cameras were used to record the results. Thirty-eight (58%) subjects were boys, and 27 (42%) were girls. Forty-two (65%) were white, 10 (15%) African-American, five (8%) Asian, three (5%) white Hispanic and five (8%) other. Fifty-seven (88%) were in Tanner stage I of secondary sexual development. Thirty-four (52%) died of natural causes, 26 (40%) from accidental injuries, three (5%) from other causes, and four (6%) as a result of a homicide. Forty-eight subjects (74%) had some dilation of the anal sphincters. In 21 children (32%), the entire anal canal, including the rectal ampulla, could be visualized. In another 21 (32%) subjects, the pectinate line was exposed. Only the outer portion of the anal canal opened in six children (10%), whereas 17 (26%) had no dilatation of the anus. Anal laxity led to flattened skin folds in 50 (77%), a shallow anal canal in 40 (62%), the exposure of both the pectinate line in 38 (59%), and the anal mucosa in 24 (37%). Venous congestion was present in 14 (22%), venous pooling in three (5%), erythema in six (9%), and increased pigmentation in eight (12%). Funneling was found in two (3%). Blood was present in three (5%), and an abrasion was discovered in one (2%). No fissures, lacerations, hemorrhoids, or scars were found in any of the children. Anal orifice size varied with the age of the child, the amount of traction applied to the buttocks, and a history of a CNS injury at the time of death. It is suggested, finally, that anal dilatation alone cannot be used a marker for prior sexual abuse and the exposure of the pectinate line should not be confused with tears or fissures of the anal verge. Further studies of children known to have been sodomized prior to death are required.
Topics: Anal Canal; Autopsy; Cause of Death; Child; Child Abuse; Child Abuse, Sexual; Child, Preschool; Coroners and Medical Examiners; Dilatation, Pathologic; Female; Homicide; Humans; Male; Wounds and Injuries
PubMed: 8947352
DOI: 10.1097/00000433-199612000-00003 -
Journal of Biomaterials Science.... Dec 2018Curcumin, the active ingredient of the rhizome curcuma longa has been extensively studied as an anticancer agent for various types of tumours. However, its efficacy as...
Curcumin, the active ingredient of the rhizome curcuma longa has been extensively studied as an anticancer agent for various types of tumours. However, its efficacy as an anticancer agent is restricted due to poor absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, rapid metabolism and degradation in acidic medium. In the present study, we encapsulated curcumin in chitosan-pectinate nanoparticulate system (CUR-CS-PEC-NPs) for deployment of curcumin to the colon, whereby curcumin is protected against degradative effects in the upper digestive tract, and hence, maintaining its anticancer properties until colon arrival. The CUR-CS-PEC-NPs was taken up by HT-29 colorectal cancer cells which ultimately resulted in a significant reduction in cancer cell propagation. The anti-proliferative effect of the encapsulated curcumin was similar to that of free curcumin at equivalent doses which confirms that the encapsulation process did not impede the anticancer activity of curcumin. The oral bioavailability (C, and AUC) of curcumin in CUR-CS-PEC-NPs was enhanced significantly by 4-folds after 6 hours of treatment compared to free curcumin. Furthermore, the clearance of curcumin from the CUR-CS-PEC-NPs was lower compared to free curcumin. These findings point to the potential application of the CUR-CS-PEC-NPs in the oral delivery of curcumin in the treatment of colon cancer.
Topics: Animals; Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; Cell Line; Cell Survival; Chitosan; Colonic Neoplasms; Curcumin; Drug Carriers; Drug Liberation; Drug Stability; Humans; Male; Nanoparticles; Pectins; Rats, Sprague-Dawley
PubMed: 30376409
DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2018.1541500 -
Journal of Pediatric Surgery Dec 2017Fecal incontinence after a pull-through is associated with different factors, although damage to the anal canal seems to be the most important. The objective of this...
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE
Fecal incontinence after a pull-through is associated with different factors, although damage to the anal canal seems to be the most important. The objective of this article is to identify the variables related to the presence of fecal control and colitis in a homogeneous group of children after pull-through.
METHODS
A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in patients with HD for evaluation of post-operative problems from May 2014 to November 2016. The patients (39) had a transanal approach and were divided into two groups: Group 1 patients with fecal continence and Group 2 patients with fecal incontinence.
RESULTS
Group 1 patients (13) had the anastomosis in the rectum, no damage to the anal canal, and a positive history of colitis. Group 2 (26) had the anastomosis at the skin, anoderm, pectinate line, or a combination of these and a negative history of colitis.
CONCLUSIONS
We demonstrated that patients with a technical error in the anastomosis have fecal incontinence, but not colitis. Preservation of the anal canal is associated with fecal control and colitis because it is a high-pressure zone. Education for proper identification of the anal canal during a pull-through is an absolute necessity.
TYPE OF STUDY
Retrospective Comparative Study.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III.
Topics: Anal Canal; Anastomosis, Surgical; Child; Child, Preschool; Colitis; Cross-Sectional Studies; Defecation; Fecal Incontinence; Female; Hirschsprung Disease; Humans; Male; Postoperative Complications; Rectum; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 28941931
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.08.040 -
Carbohydrate Polymers Oct 2021Several studies are described that contribute to the systematic exploration of new aspects of digestion, fermentation, and biological activities of pectic... (Review)
Review
Several studies are described that contribute to the systematic exploration of new aspects of digestion, fermentation, and biological activities of pectic polysaccharides (PPS) leading to a better understanding of prebiotics. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is thought to be associated with the dysbacteriosis induced by different environmental agents in genetically susceptible persons. PPS are considered as an indispensable gut-microbiota-accessible carbohydrate that play a dominant role in maintaining gut microbiota balance and show a better effect in ameliorating IBD than some traditional prebiotics. The aim of this review is to summarize the fermentation characteristics of PPS, highlight its role in improving IBD, and propose a view that PPS may be a new and effective prebiotic.
Topics: Animals; Cell Line; Colitis; Dietary Fiber; Digestion; Dysbiosis; Female; Fermentation; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Humans; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases; Male; Mice; Pectins; Polysaccharides; Prebiotics; Rats
PubMed: 34364621
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118377 -
International Journal of Molecular... May 2020Several proteins from animal and plant origin act as microbial transglutaminase substrate, a crosslinking enzyme capable of introducing isopeptide bonds into proteins... (Review)
Review
Several proteins from animal and plant origin act as microbial transglutaminase substrate, a crosslinking enzyme capable of introducing isopeptide bonds into proteins between the aminoacids glutamines and lysines. This feature has been widely exploited to modify the biological properties of many proteins, such as emulsifying, gelling, viscosity, and foaming. Besides, microbial transglutaminase has been used to prepare bioplastics that, because made of renewable molecules, are able to replace the high polluting plastics of petrochemical origin. In fact, most of the time, it has been shown that the microbial enzyme strengthens the matrix of protein-based bioplastics, thus, influencing the technological characteristics of the derived materials. In this review, an overview of the ability of many proteins to behave as good substrates of the enzyme and their ability to give rise to bioplastics with improved properties is presented. Different applications of this enzyme confirm its important role as an additive to recover high value-added protein containing by-products with a double aim (i) to produce environmentally friendly materials and (ii) to find alternative uses of wastes as renewable, cheap, and non-polluting sources. Both principles are in line with the bio-economy paradigm.
Topics: Animals; Biodegradation, Environmental; Biotechnology; Collagen; Colloids; Egg Proteins; Environmental Pollution; Glutamine; Lysine; Milk Proteins; Pectins; Plant Proteins; Plastics; Transglutaminases
PubMed: 32455881
DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103656