The Gene-Environment Interactions in Respiratory Diseases (GEIRD) Project

The role of genetic and environmental factors, as well as their interaction, in the natural history of asthma, allergic rhinitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is largely unknown. This is mainly due to the lack of large-scale analytical epidemiological/genetic studies aimed at investigating these 3 respiratory conditions simultaneously. The GEIRD project is a collaborative initiative designed to collect information on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress, individual and ecological exposures, diet, early-life factors, smoking habits, genetic traits and medication use in large and accurately defined series of asthma, allergic rhinitis and COPD phenotypes. It is a population-based multicase-control design, where cases and controls are identified through a 2-stage screening process (postal questionnaire and clinical examination) in pre-existing cohorts or new samples of subjects. It is aimed at elucidating the role that modifiable and genetic factors play in the occurrence, persistence, severity and control of inflammatory airway diseases, by way of the establishment of a historical multicentre standardized databank of phenotypes, contributed by and openly available to international epidemiologists. Researchers conducting population-based surveys with standardized methods may contribute to the public-domain case-control database, and use the resulting increased power to answer their own scientific questions.

Invasive pneumococcal infections in infants up to three years of age: results of a longitudinal surveillance in North-East Italy

Pneumococcus is considered one of the main causes of the infections acquired in the community setting and also seems to be the most frequent cause of community-acquired pneumonia in children under 5 years of age. To establish suitable preventive measures as vaccination policy, it would be important to document the incidence of IPD. The main feature of this study was that it demanded a cooperative effort between family pediatricians and those working in the hospitals to estimate the real burden of IPD in children aged 0-36. From 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2003, a prospective active surveillance of clinical cases due to S. pneumoniae was conducted by 87 specifically-trained sentinel pediatricians [all family pediatricians] randomly selected from among those working in North-East Italy. Suspected pneumococcal infections were confirmed by blood cultures at the laboratories of the hospitals involved in the study. 32 cases were suspected, 12 of those proved positive on blood culture and 6 of these 12 confirmed cases were hospitalized. 2 were cases of meningitis, 1 of pneumonia and 9 of bacteremia. The cumulative annual incidence was 58.9 cases/100,000 infants aged 0-36 months (95% CI 30.38-102.71), meaning that North-East Italy can be classified as a mesoendemic area. This study demonstrated that the incidence of IPD in infants aged (0-36 months) is often under-estimated, documenting the importance of prospective active surveillance for assisting rational choices for public health issues.

Comparative in vitro and in vivo evaluations of oral sustained-release formulations of diclofenac sodium in beagle dogs

PURPOSE

Two sustained release formulations (microspheres and Voltaren SR75) were evaluated for their drug release characteristics in dissolution (in vitro study) and after oral administration to beagle dogs (in vivo study) by HPLC.

METHODS

The dissolution study was carried out according to the paddle method and the pharmacokinetic study was conducted using HPLC analysis in a crossover design in six female beagle dogs after oral administration of 75 mg diclofenac sodium (DFS).

RESULTS

The dissolution profiles showed 45% release for Voltaren SR75 and around 95% for the microspheres. Oral administration of DFS resulted in AUC(0-24) and Cmax values of 20.4 microg h/mL and 3.04 microg/mL for microspheres and 33.5 microg h/mL and 5.59 microg/mL for Voltaren, respectively. The Tmax was 3.0 h for both formulations. A significant difference in AUC(0-24) and Cmax was observed for DFS absorption from microspheres and Voltaren.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from the dissolution assay demonstrated the faster release of diclofenac sodium from microspheres. The bioavailability of DFS in microspheres was about 61% that of Voltaren, for the parameters AUC and Cmax, and they are therefore not bioequivalent to Voltaren in relation to the extent of absorption. However, the rate of drug absorption (Tmax) was similar for the two formulations.

Reduced PTEN protein expression and its prognostic implications in canine and feline mammary tumors

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) belongs to the group of gatekeeper tumor suppressor genes and is involved in multiple mechanisms leading to cellular defense against neoplastic transformation and progression. Twenty-four dogs and 17 cats were submitted to a 2-year follow-up study, and clinicopathologic features were recorded and compared with immunohistochemical PTEN staining. PTEN-negative status occurred in 33% of canine and 76% of feline mammary carcinomas. In canine mammary carcinomas, there was a significant (P < .05) correlation between loss of PTEN protein expression and simple carcinoma histotype, lymphatic vessel invasion, lymph node metastases, distant organ metastases, tumor dedifferentiation, tumor recurrence, and shorter overall survival. In feline mammary tumors, a significant correlation between loss of PTEN protein expression and lymphatic vessel invasion was found. Loss of PTEN expression could be a useful prognostic marker in canine mammary carcinomas.

[Epidemiology and epidemiologists: a survey on the presence, structure and training of epidemiologists and medical statisticians in the Veneto region]

The present study aims at assessing the role of epidemiology on health decision-making processes in the public administrations of the Veneto region, north-eastern Italy. In 2003 a questionnaire was mailed to chief-executives of local public health organizations (21 Local Health Units, 2 Public Hospitals), and 18 responded. All public health organizations were practicing Epidemiology, but only 4 had dedicated services. Sixty-two people were working as epidemiologists in public health, but only half played the role for most of their Full Time Employment. Personal educational qualifications were mainly degree in Medicine (62%) and Statistical Sciences (23%). Among physicians, 78% was specialized in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine. The head office of most public health organizations (15 out of 18) appraised epidemiology as fundamental with regard to the health decision-making process, however two thirds of them reported that the epidemiological informative needs were only little or not at all satisfied. To improve the situation, most Public Health Organizations intended to perform educational activities and to use external advisors. In conclusion, Public Health Organizations of the Veneto region appreciated the importance of epidemiology in the health decision-making process. However, few resources were devoted to this field so that informative needs were only partly satisfied.

Reduced factor VII and factor VIII levels and prolonged thrombin-generation times during a healthy diet in middle-aged women with mild to moderate cardiovascular disease risk

BACKGROUND

No experimental study has investigated the effect of whole-diet therapies on a wide range of hemostatic parameters, and their relationship with metabolic and inflammatory markers. Such information was sought in middle-aged women with moderate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk subjected to an integrated healthy diet.

METHODS

Forty-nine premenopausal women were screened for C-reactive protein levels > or =1 mg L(-1) and at least one additional CVD risk factor. Sixteen women (age: 43-54 years) were selected and received a 12-week diet (four phases) integrating National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel-III recommendations with components of a Mediterranean-style diet.

RESULTS

We observed a reduction in body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.001), waist circumference (P = 0.005), total (P = 0.011) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (P = 0.035). Antigen levels of coagulation factor (F)VII (P = 0.003) and FVIII (P = 0.005) were clearly reduced by dietary intervention, which also appeared to decrease circulating tissue factor but not fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen levels. Levels of FVIII and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, among the inflammation markers, showed the highest correlation, particularly before the intervention (r = 0.55, P = 0.032). Only this cytokine influenced FVIII variation over time, thus highlighting new relations between coagulation and cellular components of inflammation. The functional effect of diet on coagulation was indicated by markedly prolonged thrombin generation initiation and propagation times (lag time, P = 0.002; time to peak, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The changes observed in coagulation initiation and amplification phases, body composition and lipid profile could translate into a remarkable decrease in the risk for cardiovascular disease. Our observations suggest novel relationships between coagulation and inflammatory components.

Steroid hormone receptors in normal, dysplastic and neoplastic feline mammary tissues and their prognostic significance

The expression of oestrogen-alpha and progesterone receptors was determined in 13 normal, 21 dysplastic and 53 neoplastic feline mammary tissues. Expression of the receptors was correlated with cell proliferation, as assessed by the MIB-1 immunolabelling index, and with the clinical course of the disease. The expression of oestrogen receptors was significantly higher in healthy tissues and in adenosis than in neoplastic lesions, and the levels of progesterone receptors increased in fibroadenomatous changes and in "in situ" carcinomas but decreased in invasive carcinomas. The oestrogen and progesterone receptor status of the invasive carcinomas did not correlate either with the histological parameters or with the overall survival of the cats, although the oestrogen receptor-negative tumours had a poor prognosis. Oestrogen receptor-positive neoplasms had a significantly lower MIB-1 immunolabelling index than oestrogen receptor-negative neoplasms.

Detection of Staphylococcus aureus and enterotoxin genotype diversity in Monte Veronese, a Protected Designation of Origin Italian cheese

AIMS

To evaluate the risk associated with the load and enterotoxigenicity of Staphylococcus aureus in Monte Veronese, a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese of the Lessinia area (Verona, Italy).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Staphylococcus aureus was quantified by a conventional culture method and by a nucA targeted real-time PCR assay developed in this study. Staphylococcus aureus numbers in cheese were higher than the limit tolerated by the Italian food legislation in 78% instances, according to both detection methods. Multiplex PCR tests for 17 Staph. aureus enterotoxin (SE) genes were applied to nucleic acids extracted from curds, cheeses and Staph. aureus isolates. The SE gene diversity appeared reduced after ripening. The gene encoding SED was found most frequently in dairy samples and the enterotoxin genes ser, sed, seg and sem predominated in the isolates.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of enterotoxigenic Staph. aureus strains with complex SE genotypes in this PDO cheese at numbers often exceeding the Italian tolerance threshold represents an important risk factor.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The high frequency of contamination of Monte Veronese PDO cheese and, expectedly, similar typical productions from raw milk, by enterotoxigenic Staph. aureus imposes a tighter hygienic control in the earlier manufacturing phases.

Chemical composition and biotechnological properties of a polysaccharide from the peels and antioxidative content from the pulp of Passiflora liguralis fruits

A new polysaccharide with a high molecular weight (greater than 1 x 106 Da) was extracted and characterized from the peels of Passiflora liguralis (granadilla) fruits. Chemical composition of the biopolymer, performed by using a high pressure anion exchange-pulsed amperometric detector (HPAE-PAD), showed the presence of six different sugar residues: xylose, glucose, galactose, galactosamine, an unknown component, and fucose in the relative ratio of 1:0.5:0.2:0.06:0.05:trace. The optical rotation of this xyloglucan was [alpha](D)(25) degrees C = -186.42 (concentration of 1.4 mg/mL of H(2)O), and the viscosity was dependent on the concentration and pH, showing a maximum value of 1.4 eta at a concentration of 3% in distilled water and a maximum value of 7.0 eta in citrate buffer solution. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that this biopolymer was very stable at high temperatures, showing a degradation temperature at 280 degrees C. The characterization of the polysaccharide was also investigated by spectroscopic methods (1H NMR and IR) pointing out the complexity of this biopolymer and the presence of sugar residues in alpha-manno, alpha-gluco-galacto, and beta-gluco-galacto configurations. The formation of a biodegradable film using this novel xyloglucan was reported, and the anticytotoxic activity of the polysaccharide was studied in a brine shrimp bioassay. Considerable antioxidant activity (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) value of 0.32 microM/mg fresh product) was noted in the lipophilic extracts of Passiflora liguralis fruits, indicating, in this fruit, an alternative source of bioactive compounds.

Successful use of bivalirudin for cardiopulmonary bypass in a patient with heparin allergy

Heparin-induced IgE-mediated hypersensitivity and anaphylactoid reactions, although rare, can pose a serious clinical problem for patients requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Bivalirudin is a bivalent reversible direct thrombin inhibitor, with a half-life of 25 min, eliminated mostly by proteolytic cleavage. There are some reports on the use of bivalirudin for cardiac surgery, particularly for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), but none on cases of heparin allergy. We report a case of heparin allergy successfully managed for CPB with bivalirudin anticoagulation.

The role of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor Flk-1/KDR in promoting tumour angiogenesis in feline and canine mammary carcinomas: a preliminary study of autocrine and paracrine loops

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and its receptor KDR are involved in the regulation of angiogenesis and are up-regulated in a number of tumours in humans and in particular, breast cancer. We therefore evaluated the prognostic potential of the angiogenetic process in feline and canine mammary carcinomas by the immunohistochemical assessment of VEGF expression and micro vessel density (MVD) quantification and examined the interplay between VEGF and KDR. These variables were related to some relevant clinicopathological parameters and to overall survival (OS). VEGF and KDR expression were evaluated in epithelial, stromal and endothelial compartments in order to identify autocrine and/or paracrine loops. In dogs an increased VEGF expression did not show any statistical correlation with the clinicopathological parameters examined and was not correlated to a poorer prognosis. MVD was found to be significantly correlated to the histologic type (P=0.04), tumour grading (P=0.02), and to the OS (P=0.01). In cats VEGF expression was significantly correlated to tumor grading (P=0.01) and OS (P=0.03), while no significant associations were found between MVD and the other parameters. VEGF and KDR were found to be detected on the epithelial, and/or endothelial and/or stromal cells of the carcinomas in both species, suggesting indications for some possible autocrine and paracrine loops. Our results encourage further studies on the possible prognostic role of VEGF and MVD in canine and feline mammary tumours and on the role of growth factors and their receptors in promoting tumour proliferation and an "angiogenetic shift". The VEGF/KDR system may play a role in malignant transformation and tumor progression.

COX-2 expression in canine and feline invasive mammary carcinomas: correlation with clinicopathological features and prognostic fmolecular markers

Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is an inducible enzyme linked to tumor growth and angiogenesis. Its expression occurs in a wide range of preneoplastic and neoplastic conditions in humans, including colon and breast carcinomas. We evaluated the role of COX-2 as a mediator of angiogenesis in feline and canine invasive carcinomas (IMCs) and its role as a prognostic indicator. COX-2 expression was assessed in neoplastic samples and healthy mammary glands by immunohistochemistry, and related to the following clinicopathological parameters: age, tumor size, histologic type, tumor grading, vessel invasion, estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status, Ki-67, HER-2 overexpression, microvessel density (MVD), VEGF expression and overall survival (OS). In both species, COX-2 immunoreactivity was not observed in healthy tissues, whereas 96% of feline and 100% of canine invasive carcinomas scored positive. In queens, COX-2 overexpression was significantly correlated to ER-negative status (p=0.04) and to increased PR (p=0.038) expression, and angiogenesis assessed by VEGF expression (p=0.002). In bitches an increased COX-2 expression was significantly correlated to HER-2 overexpression (p=0.013) and to tumor dedifferentiation (p=0.03). In both species increased levels of COX-2 were correlated to poorer prognosis (p=0.03 in dogs and p=0.002 in cats). COX-2 is expressed in mammary tissues during tumorigenesis and its expression is associated with a poorer prognosis in bitches and queens. The correlation of COX-2 expression and angiogenesis provides support for a potential role of COX-2 inhibitors for the prevention and the treatment of feline IMCs via their anti-angiogenic properties. In the canine species, moreover, COX-2 may be important for mediating HER-2 induced mammary tumors.

Immunity to poliovirus among children and the elderly in north-east Italy

INTRODUCTION

Italy and Europe were declared polio-free in June 2002, but increasing migration, even from undeveloped countries where polio still exists, may lead to a come-back of circulating poliovirus (PV) and infection in previously polio-free areas. It is consequently advisable to continue to monitor the immunity of the population in polio-free areas. The aim of this study was to assess the current prevalence of neutralizing antibodies in recently-immunized children and in elderly people who were never vaccinated.

METHODS

Sera from 511 healthy subjects resident in the Veneto Region were examined to assay their antibody titer for PV 1, 2 and 3, using the microneutralization test. Data were analyzed by chi-squared test, Student's t-test and linear regression analysis, using EPI-Info 2000 supplied by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Atlanta, GA, USA).

RESULTS

Neutralizing antibodies in group A (231 subjects aged 1-17 years) showed significantly higher geometric mean titers (GMTs) than in group B (280 subjects aged 65-100 years) for all three PV serotypes (P < 0.001). Nobody simultaneously lacked neutralizing antibodies for all three serotypes. There were no difference between the two groups in terms of male/female GMTs for the three PV Antibodies decreased with time since vaccination, but the difference was only significant for PV 3. GMTs were lower in the elderly, with no significant difference among the three PV.

DISCUSSION

The population examined showed a good level of protection against the three PV strains: both groups A (vaccinated) and B (naturally immunized) revealed a valid immunity to poliovirus.

CONCLUSION

Immunization programs and immunity status population screening are still advisable until polio has been world-wide eradicated.

Androgen receptor expression in normal, hyperplastic and neoplastic hepatoid glands in the dog

Neoplasms of the perianal glands are common in the dog, particularly in the male. The occurrence of these tumours appears to be hormone related and castration, without excision of the tumour, has sometimes resulted in regression of the tumour. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of androgen receptors (AR) in normal, hyperplastic and neoplastic hepatoid glands in the dog. Thirty-one samples of canine hepatoid gland tissues were investigated. The lesions, classified according to WHO criteria, were comprised of 19 hyperplastic tissues, 10 benign lesions (2 hepatoid gland epithelioma and 8 hepatoid adenomas), and 19 carcinomas. Five samples from normal hepatoid glands were also investigated. The AR expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using a streptavidin-biotin peroxidase method. The immunoexpression was scored by two pathologists as the percentage of positive nuclei. The intensity of staining was also considered. AR expression was detected in all normal and abnormal glands. However, in hyperplastic tissues the percentage of positive nuclei was significantly higher than in normal tissue and especially in reserve basaloid cells. A similar increase in the percent of positive nuclei was also observed in hepatoid epitheliomas, while in hepatoid adenoma the percent of AR-immunolabelling was only slightly increased compared to normal tissue. In hepatoid carcinomas the percent of AR-positive cells was similar to that observed in benign tumours. The grade of differentiation of hepatoid carcinomas did not affect AR expression. These results demonstrate that increased AR expression is maintained throughout perianal gland cancer progression and that hepatoid gland carcinomas still express AR. Although further studies may be required to evaluate the hormonal background of these diseases, dogs bearing those carcinomas might benefit from castration or anti hormonal therapy.

Comparison of steroid receptor expression in normal, dysplastic, and neoplastic canine and feline mammary tissues

Steroid receptor expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry in neoplastic, hyperplastic/dysplastic, and normal mammary tissue samples removed from 68 queens and 47 bitches, using monoclonal antibodies against human oestrogen-alpha (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR). Mammary lesions were classified according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, and all animals with invasive carcinomas were clinically followed for 2 years. Stromal and/or lymphatic invasion and histological grading were also recorded. In both species, ER expression was significantly higher in healthy tissues, hyperplastic/dysplastic lesions, and benign tumours than in carcinomas. The loss of ER expression was more marked in feline than in canine carcinomas. In queens, PR expression increased in dysplastic lesions and "in situ" carcinomas and decreased in invasive carcinomas, even if parts of these tumours were still PR-positive. In bitches no significant variation in PR expression was observed between normal tissue, dysplasias, and benign neoplasms, but was significantly lower in carcinomas. In both species ER and PR expression in invasive carcinomas did not correlate either with histological parameters or overall survival time. This study demonstrates several differences in steroid hormone dependency between the two species. The percentage of PR-positive feline carcinomas suggests a possible role of progesterone in promoting early tumour cell growth in queens. The low percentage of ER-positive invasive carcinomas further demonstrated the aggressive phenotype and behaviour of feline mammary tumours.

A population based seroepidemiological survey of Chlamydia pneumoniae infections in schoolchildren

AIM

A serosurvey was carried out in schoolchildren from a northeastern area of Italy to define the burden of Chlamydia pneumoniae infection.

METHODS

A sample of 649 schoolchildren underwent a simplified version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire and IgG and IgA antibodies were investigated using an enzyme immunoassay, followed by a microimmunofluorescence assay in reactive sera.

RESULTS

Of the children examined, 29% and 19.7% had IgG and IgA antibodies, respectively. The IgG prevalence increased with age. No other sociodemographical variable was related to C pneumoniae infection. An association was established between IgA prevalence and previous otitis media.

CONCLUSIONS

A mesoendemic (intermediate between high and low endemic level) pattern of C pneumoniae infection is present in schoolchildren from this area and the prevalence rate is related to age. Moreover, this is the first epidemiological evidence of the role of C pneumoniae in otitis.

Overexpression of HER-2 in feline invasive mammary carcinomas: an immunohistochemical survey and evaluation of its prognostic potential

The role of c-erbB-2 protooncogene status in feline invasive mammary carcinomas (FMCs) was assessed through the HER-2 receptor immunohistochemical expression. The HER-2 overexpression was then correlated with some relevant histologic parameters and with the clinical course of the disease during a 2-year follow-up. Forty-seven FMCs from surgically treated queens were considered. Tumors were classified according to the WHO criteria and stromal or lymphatic invasion (or both) and histologic grading were recorded. The immunohistochemical staining was performed on paraffin sections and a well-defined scoring system based upon numbers of HER-2 receptors expressed on the cell surface was applied according to standard guidelines. Overall survival (OS) distributions were generated with the Kaplan-Meier method. HER-2 overexpression was detected in 28 of the 47 carcinomas (59.6%). This parameter was demonstrated to be significantly correlated with the shorter OS (P = 0.02). However, the HER-2 overexpression did not show significant correlation with histologic type, tumor grading, or presence of lymphatic invasion. Furthermore, the HER-2 overexpression appeared with a higher percentage in FMCs than what is reported in canine or human mammary carcinomas. The significant correlation with a shorter OS suggests a possible role of HER-2 as an additional marker of malignancy in FMCs and as a reliable prognostic indicator. As in the human oncology practice, the identification of the FMCs that overexpress HER-2 may also promote new therapeutic strategies.

Effects of Arg-Gly-Asp sequence peptide and hyperosmolarity on the permeability of interstitial matrix and fenestrated endothelium in joints

OBJECTIVES

The aims were to assess the contribution of arg-gly-asp (RGD) mediated cell integrin-matrix bonds to interstitial hydraulic resistance and to fenestrated endothelial permeability in joints. Joint fluid is generated by filtration from fenestrated capillaries and drains through a fibronectin-rich synovial intercellular matrix. The role of parenchymal cell-matrix bonding in determining tissue hydraulic resistance is unknown.

METHODS

The knee cavity of anesthetized rabbits was infused with saline or the competitive hexapeptide blocker GRGDTP, with or without added osmotic stress (600 mosm saline). Intra-articular pressure Pj, net trans-synovial drainage rate s, and the permeation of Evans blue-labeled albumin (EVA) from plasma into the joint cavity were measured.

RESULTS

GRGDTP increased the hydraulic conductance of the synovial drainage pathway, ds/dPj, by 71% (p =.02, paired t test, n = 6 animals). Synovial plasma EVA clearance (control 7.1 +/- 0.8 microL h-1, mean +/- SEM, n = 15) was unaffected by GRGDTP (7.0 +/- 2.3 microL h(-1), n = 6) or hyperosmolarity (4.9 +/- 1.5 microL h(-1), n = 8) but was increased by GRGDTP and hyperosmolarity together (15.9 +/- 4.8 microL h(-1), n = 5) (p =.01, ANOVA). Changes in dPj/dt evoked by GRGDTP plus hyperosmolarity, but neither alone, demonstrated increased microvascular filtration into the joint cavity (p <.001, ANOVA), as did changes in fluid absorption from the infusion system at fixed Pj.

CONCLUSIONS

RGD-mediated bonds between the parenchymal cells and interstitial polymers reduce the interstitial hydraulic conductance by 42%. This helps to retain the lubricating fluid inside a joint cavity. RGD-mediated bonds also support the macromolecular barrier function of fenestrated endothelium, but in vivo this is evident only in stressed endothelium (cf. in vitro).

Reversible changes in goldfish brain polyamine concentrations and synthetic enzymes after cold exposure

Exposure of goldfish to the cold (5 degrees C) caused a sharp increase in brain putrescine level during the first week. Such increase continued at a minor rate for the whole period of exposure (2 months). In contrast, the content of spermidine and spermine remained unchanged. Putrescine increase was concomitant with a remarkable rise in ornithine decarboxylase activity (ODC), which reached a maximum stimulation after 1 week of cold exposure, and declined thereafter, remaining significantly higher than the control for the entire period of study. Cold exposure caused also a reduction of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AdoMetDC) activity and an increase of ornithine level, whereas methionine content was unchanged. When fish exposed to cold temperature were returned to 20 degrees C, the modifications observed on brain polyamine metabolism were completely reversed. Supported by previous observations, our results suggest that the changes in the polyamine metabolism induced in goldfish brain by cold exposure could represent an homeostatic mechanism carried out by the goldfish to minimize the possible effects of thermal changes.

Polysaccharides from extremophilic microorganisms

Several marine thermophilic strains were analyzed for exopolysaccharide production. The screening process revealed that a significant number of thermophilic microorganisms were able to produce biopolymers, and some of them also revealed interesting chemical compositions. We have identified four new polysaccharides from thermophilic marine bacteria, with complex primary structures and with different repetitive units: a galacto-mannane type from strain number 4004 and mannane type for the other strains. The thermophilic Bacillus thermantarcticus produces two exocellular polysaccharides (EPS 1, EPS 2) that give the colonies a typical mucous character. The exopolysaccharide fraction was produced with all substrates assayed, although a higher yield 400 mg liter(-1) was obtained with mannose as carbon and energy source. NMR spectra confirmed that EPS 1 was a heteropolysaccharide of which the repeating unit was constituted by four different alpha-D-mannoses and three different beta-D-glucoses. It seems to be close to some xantan polymers. EPS 2 was a mannan. Four different alpha-D-mannoses were found as the repeating unit. Production and chemical studies of biopolymers produced by halophilic archaea, Haloarcula species were also reported.

Regulation of hyaluronan secretion into rabbit synovial joints in vivo by protein kinase C

Hyaluronan (HA) is important for joint cavitation, lubrication, volume regulation and synovial fluid drainage but little is known about the regulation of joint HA synthesis/secretion in vivo. We investigated whether HA secretion into joints in vivo can be regulated by protein kinase C (PKC). Secretion into the knee joint cavity of anaesthetised rabbits was measured over 6 h by washout and chromatography. Joints received intra-articular injections of Ringer vehicle (control) or an activator of classical PKC isoforms, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), at 20-2000 ng ml(-1). The effects of PKC inhibition by bisindolylmaleimide (BIM) and protein synthesis inhibition by cycloheximide (CX) on basal and stimulated HA secretion were also studied. The endogenous HA mass, 181+/-8 microg (n=26, mean +/- S.E.M.), and basal secretion rate, 4.4+/-0.4 microg h(-1), indicated a turnover time of 41 h. Secretion rate showed a dose-dependent response to PMA (n=30), rising 5-fold to 21.7+/-5.0 microg h(-1) (n=5) at 2000 ng ml(-1) PMA (P<0.0001, one-way ANOVA). PMA-induced stimulation was partially suppressed by CX (HA secretion: 5.8+/-1.7 microg h(-1), n=8, P<0.01) and totally blocked by BIM (HA secretion: 3.2+/-0.6 microg h(-1), n=9, P<0.001). Basal HA secretion was unaffected by CX over 6 h (4.2+/-0.7 microg h(-1), n=8) but was reduced by 29 % by BIM (3.1+/-0.6 microg h(-1), n=10, P=0.03). It is concluded that: (1) PKC can stimulate HA secretion into joints in vivo through mechanisms involving protein synthesis de novo as well as phosphorylation; (2) basal HA secretion is only partially PKC dependent; and (3) hyaluronan synthase turnover time is >6 h in vivo, which is slower than in vitro (<2-3 h).

Distribution and expression of A1 adenosine receptors, adenosine deaminase and adenosine deaminase-binding protein (CD26) in goldfish brain

The expression patterns of adenosine A(1) receptors (A(1)Rs), adenosine deaminase (ADA) and ADA binding protein (CD26) were studied in goldfish brain using mammalian monoclonal antibody against A(1)R and polyclonal antibodies against ADA and CD26. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of a band of 35 kDa for A(1)R in membrane preparations and a band of 43 kDa for ADA in both cytosol and membranes. Immunohistochemistry on goldfish brain slices showed that A(1) receptors were present in several neuronal cell bodies diffused in the telencephalon, cerebellum, optic tectum. In the rhombencephalon, large and medium sized neurons of the raphe nucleus showed a strong immunopositivity. A(1)R immunoreactivity was also present in the glial cells of the rhombencephalon and optic tectum. An analogous distribution was observed for ADA immunoreactivity. Tests for the presence of CD26 gave positive labelling in several populations of neurons in the rhombencephalon as well as in the radial glia of optic tectum, where immunostaining for ADA and A(1)R was observed. In goldfish astrocyte cultures the immunohistochemical staining of A(1)R, ADA and CD26, performed on the same cell population, displayed a complete overlapping distribution of the three antibodies. The parallel immunopositivity, at least in some discrete neuronal areas, for A(1)Rs, ADA and CD26 led us to hypothesize that a co-localization among A(1)R, ecto-ADA and CD26 also exists in the neurons of goldfish since it has been established to exist in the neurons of mammals. Moreover, we have demonstrated for the first time, that A(1)R, ecto-ADA and CD26 co-localization is present on the astroglial component of the goldfish brain. This raises the possibility that a similar situation is also shown in the glia of the mammalian brain.

Production of exopolysaccharides from a thermophilic microorganism isolated from a marine hot spring in flegrean areas

A thermophilic strain isolated from sea sand at Maronti, near Sant' Angelo (Ischia), is described. The organism grows well at an optimal temperature of 60 degrees C at pH 7.0. The thermophilic bacterium, named strain 4004, produces an exocellular polysaccharide (EPS) in yields of 90 mg/l. The EPS fraction was produced with all substrates tested, although a higher yield was obtained with sucrose or trehalose as sole carbon source. During growth, the EPS content was proportional to the biomass. Three fractions (EPS1, EPS2, EPS3) were obtained after purification. Quantitative monosaccharide analysis of the EPSs revealed the presence of mannose:glucose:galactose in a relative ratio of 0.5:1.0:0.3 in EPS1, mannose:glucose:galactose in a relative ratio of 1.0:0.3:trace in EPS2, and galactose:mannose:glucosamine:arabinose in a relative ratio of 1.0:0.8:0.4:0.2 in EPS3. The average molecular mass of EPS3 was determined to be 1x10(6) Da. From comparison of the chemical shift values in (1)H and (13)C spectra, we conclude that EPS3 presents a pentasaccharide repeating unit.

Phytoestrogens: pharmacological and therapeutic perspectives

Phytoestrogens exert different estrogen receptor-dependent and -independent pharmacological actions. They share with estrogens several structural features and show greater affinity for the newly described estrogen receptor-beta. Many hope that phytoestrogens can exert the cardioprotective, anti-osteoporotic and other beneficial effects of the estrogens used in hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women without adversely affecting the risk of thrombosis and the incidence of breast and uterine cancers. Although there are many positive indications that phytoestrogens can fulfil this role, it remains to be proven: controlled interventional studies are lacking, and many questions remain unanswered. This review analyzes, on the basis of available experimental and epidemiological studies, the pros and cons of phytoestrogen use and describes the potential tissue targets and mechanisms of action of phytoestrogens.

Correlation of vascular endothelial growth factor expression to overall survival in feline invasive mammary carcinomas

Samples from feline invasive mammary carcinomas (FMCs) were used to determine the prognostic significance of the immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and microvessel density (MVD). Forty-eight queens bearing FMCs were included in a 2-year follow-up study. Mammary tumors were classified according to the World Health Organization system and graded on the basis of histologic criteria. Tumor sections were immunostained using anti-VEGF and anti-von Willebrand factor (vWf) antibodies. VEGF expression was quantified on the basis of the percentage of positive cells. MVD of vWf-positive microvessels was determined by both mean microvessel counts and highest microvessel counts. Normal mammary gland tissues showed an inconspicuous VEGF staining. In FMCs the proportion of VEGF-positive cells was significantly higher in papillary and solid carcinomas than in tubular and papillary cystic tumors. An increased number of cells expressing VEGF was also observed in poorly differentiated FMCS. Sixteen (33.3%) of the queens bearing invasive carcinomas were still alive at the end of the 2-year follow-up period, and 32 (66.7%) had died. The VEGF expression was significantly correlated with the clinical outcome, but no correlation was observed with the invasion of lymphatic vessels. A correlation between the higher percentage of VEGF-positive cells and the unfavorable prognosis was demonstrated by the estimation of curves for overall survival (P = 0.03). Univariate analysis showed that MVD did not correlate with the overall survival. The results of our study demonstrated that VEGF expression, although not associated with increased angiogenesis, is a prognostic indicator in feline mammary tumors. In contrast, there is no support for a role of neovascularization as an indicator of survivability.

Contribution of F-actin to barrier properties of the blood-joint pathway

OBJECTIVES

Because fibroblast filamentous actin (F-actin) influences cutaneous interstitial matrix swelling pressure (5), we investigated whether F-actin in fibroblast-derived synoviocytes influences the hydraulic permeability of the trans-synovial interstitial pathway. The study also tested whether F-actin in fenestrated synovial endothelium contributes to the blood-joint barrier in vivo.

METHODS

The clearance of Evans blue-albumin (EVA) from plasma into the knee joint cavity was determined in joint infused with F-actin disrupting cytochalasin D (1-200 microM), latrunculin B (100 microM) or vehicle in anesthetized rabbits. The hydraulic permeability of the lining was determined as the slope relating net trans-synovial flow Q(s) to intra-articular pressure P(j). Synovium was examined histologically after i.v. Monastral blue to assess endothelial leakiness.

RESULTS

EVA permeation in vivo was increased up to 25-fold by cytochalasin (p = 0.0002, ANOVA), with an EC(50) of 23 microM (95% confidence limits 13-43 microM). Washout quickly reversed the increase. Latrunculin had a similar effect. F-actin disruption switched Q(s) from drainage (control) to filtration into the cavity at low P(j) in vivo and raised the conductance Q(s)/dP(j) by 2.13 (p = 0.001, ANOVA). Circulatory arrest abolished these effects. Monastral blue revealed numerous endothelial leaks.

CONCLUSIONS

F-actin is crucial to the barrier function of fenestrated endothelium in situ. No significant effect of synoviocyte F-actin on matrix permeability was detected.

The impact of climate and traffic-related NO2 on the prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis in Italy

BACKGROUND

Environmental factors are likely to be involved in explaining the wide geographical variation in asthma and atopic diseases that has been documented in many recent epidemiological studies.

AIM

To evaluate to what extent climate and outdoor NO2 pollution can explain the geographical variation in the prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis, and to estimate the relative risk for exposure to different levels of these two factors.

METHODS

The impact of climate and long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution on asthma and allergic rhinitis was assessed in a cross-sectional study, carried out during 1998 to 2000 on young adults aged 20 to 44 years (n = 18 873), living in 13 areas from two different Italian climatic regions (subcontinental and Mediterranean).

RESULTS

Mediterranean areas had a significantly higher prevalence of asthma-like symptoms (P < 0.001), higher annual mean temperature (16.2 degrees C vs. 12.9 degrees C), lower temperature range (16.0 C degrees vs. 22.1 degrees C) and lower NO2 levels (31.46 microg/m3 vs. 57.99 microg/m3) than subcontinental ones. Mediterranean climate was associated with an increased risk of wheeze (OR = 1.23; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.35), tightness in the chest (OR = 1.21; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.33), shortness of breath (OR = 1.21; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.36) and asthma attacks (OR = 1.19; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.31). After adjusting for climate, an increase of 18.3 microg/m3 in NO2 levels moderately increased the risk of asthma attacks (OR = 1.13; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.32), tightness in the chest (OR = 1.11; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.26) and wheeze (OR = 1.11; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.28). When the levels of outdoor NO2 exposure rose, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis increased significantly in the Mediterranean region (OR = 1.38; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.69), but not in the subcontinental one (OR = 1.03; 95% CI 0.83 to 1.28).

CONCLUSION

Our results show that the prevalence of asthma increases when annual mean temperature increases and temperature range decreases. Furthermore, climate interacts with NO2 outdoor exposure, increasing the risk for allergic rhinitis in people exposed to high stable temperatures. A long-term role for the effect of traffic pollution on asthma is also suggested.

Respiratory symptoms, asthma, atopy and Chlamydia pneumoniae IgG antibodies in a general population sample of young adults

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to test the association of Chlamydia pneumoniae infection with respiratory symptoms and atopy.

METHODS

A general population sample of 369 young adults (aged 20-44 years) completed a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms and underwent skin prick testing. C. pneumoniae IgG and IgM serum titers were measured by microimmunofluorescence. Prior infection was defined by titers of IgG > or = 1:32, acute infection by titers of IgG > or = 1:512 and/or IgM > or = 1:16.

RESULTS

The prevalence of cough and phlegm was higher in subjects with (19.0%) than in those without (11.4%) prior C. pneumoniae infection (p = 0.01). A similar difference was found for wheezing (14.3% vs 8.0%; p = 0.05), whereas the percentage of asthmatics was equally distributed between seropositive and seronegative subjects. IgG titers > or = 1:128 were found more frequently in atopic subjects (p = 0.04). After adjusting for any confounding factors, cough and phlegm (but not wheezing) were found significantly associated with C. pneumoniae positivity, both for 1:32 (OR 1.80; 95% CI: 1.01-3.36; p = 0.05) and for 1:128 titers (OR 2.31; 95% CI: 1.20-4.42; p = 0.01). A significant association was also found for atopy, for titers > or = 1:128 (OR 1.73; 95% CI: 1.01-3.20, p = 0.05). Acute infection was not associated with respiratory symptoms or asthma.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that C. pneumoniae infection is associated with cough and phlegm and may have a role in the pathogenesis of chronic respiratory diseases. Moreover, our results indicate a relationship between atopy and C. pneumoniae infection.

Proliferation activity in oral and cutaneous canine melanocytic tumours: correlation with histological parameters, location, and clinical behaviour

A total of 62 canine melanocytic tumours (10 melanocytomas and 52 primary malignant melanomas) were investigated to compare the accuracy of prognosis provided by MIB-1 proliferation index (MIB-1-PI) with classical histological criteria and location. MIB-1-PI was assessed by means of quantitative image analysis of sections immunostained with MIB-1 monoclonal antibody. Tumour location, histological cell type, stromal or lymphatic vessel invasion, maximum tumour thickness, and presence of inflammation or necrosis were recorded for each case. Thirty-eight dogs were submitted to a 1-year follow-up and the clinical outcome of the disease determined. MIB-1-PI in melanocytomas differed significantly from that detected in primary malignant melanomas (P=0.0001). A significant difference in MIB-1-PI was revealed between oral and cutaneous malignant melanomas (P=0.015), and between presence and absence of lymphatic vessel invasion (P=0.05). MIB-1-PI was not correlated with the other parameters. In univariate analysis, only tumour location (oral vs cutaneous), presence of lymphatic vessel invasion, and MIB-1-PI were associated with decreased overall survival (P=0.0001,P=0.0144, and P=0.0489, respectively). In conclusion, the results of our study confirm that the assessment of the MIB-1-PI may be of additional prognostic value for dogs with primary malignant melanomas.

Safety of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors: focus on atorvastatin

Statins effectively lower LDL-cholesterol and some members of this class have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events and total mortality in patients with or at risk for coronary heart disease. Statins are in general well tolerated. Withdrawal rates related to adverse events are low (< or =3%). The most common adverse events are mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Elevated serum transaminase levels occur infrequently (< or = 1.5%). These are generally asymptomatic, reversible and rarely require drug withdrawal. Statins do not cause adverse endocrine effects, do not alter glycemic control in diabetic patients, and do not increase cancer risk. Dose-related myopathy and/or rhabdomyolysis also occurs very rarely, although the risk is increased by concomitant administration of cyclosporine, niacin, fibrates, or by CYP3A4 isoenzyme inhibitors (e.g. erythromycin, systemic azole antifungal agents etc.) with statins metabolized by this isoenzyme. The pharmacokinetics of the individual statin should be considered in patients receiving polypharmacological treatments, to minimize the risk of unfavorable drug interactions. Atorvastatin is well tolerated in long-term treatment of dyslipidemia and is characterized by a safety profile similar to the other available statins.

Seroprevalence, viremia and genotype distribution of hepatitis C virus: a community-based population study in northern Italy

BACKGROUND

Our aim was to define the burden of HCV infection and the related risk factors in a sample of the general population of northern Italy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a survey on the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection carried out in a cohort (861 males and 1,293 females aged 17-67 years) from the general population of northern Italy.

RESULTS

The crude HCV seroprevalence rate was 3.3%, higher in females than in males (p < 0.01) and with a clear age-related effect (test for linear trend: p < 0.01). When adjusted for sex and age in relation to the reference population, the prevalence was 3.7% (95% CI: 2.9-4.5%). In the univariate analysis, HCV infection was related to intravenous drug use (IVDU) (p < 0.001); transfusion (p < 0.001); tattooing (p = 0.02); chiropodist/manicure (p < 0.001); number of children (p < 0.01); educational level (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis sex, age over 50 years, transfusion, IVDU and tattooing were confirmed as risk factors, while the educational level seems to be a protective factor. Separate multivariate analysis for males and females points out that the age shift, the protective effect of education and the number of children as risk factor were present only in females. HCV viremia was detected in the 71.8% of the seropositive, resulting in an infection rate of 2.4% (95% CI: 1.7-3.0%). Genotype 1b accounted for 64.7% of isolates.

CONCLUSION

In the general population of our area, HCV infection is mesoendemic and current infections are mostly sustained by genotype 1b.

MIB-1 labeling index in feline dysplastic and neoplastic mammary lesions and its relationship with postsurgical prognosis

Samples from feline normal, dysplastic, and neoplastic mammary tissues were used to investigate the usefulness of MIB-1 labeling index (MIB-1 I) as a prognostic indicator. Forty-eight queens bearing invasive carcinomas were included in a 2-year follow-up study. Mammary lesions were classified according to the World Health Organization system, and invasive carcinomas were further graded on the basis of the degree of tubule formation, the degree of nuclear and cellular pleomorphism, and mitotic count. Additional sections were immunostained using MIB-1 antibody, and MIB-1 I was expressed as a percentage of positive nuclei. In normal mammary gland tissues, the mean MIB-1 I was <1%. A low proliferation rate was found in all mammary adenosis and in situ carcinomas, and the highest rates were observed in feline mammary hypertrophy and invasive carcinomas. Twenty-one (43.7%) of the queens bearing invasive carcinomas were still alive at the end of the trial, and 27 (56.2%) had died. The MIB-1 I was not significantly correlated with clinical outcome, age, histologic type, or grading of the tumors, but a borderline correlation was observed with invasion of lymphatic vessels. Univariate analysis showed that high MIB-1 I was also not associated with decreased overall survival, whereas the grading system of the tumors had high predictive value (P = 0.0040) for postsurgery survival. The lack of correlation between MIB-1 I and postsurgery survival suggests that this marker alone is not sufficient to determine a correct prognosis in feline mammary carcinomas, even if it is a useful proliferation marker.

[Histopathologic risk factors in patients with non-seminomatous germ tumors of the testis in clinical stage 1. Retrospective study of 75 patients]

OBJECTIVES

This retrospective study was performed to evaluate histopathologic prognostic risk factors in 75 patients on clinical stage 1 nonseminomatous germ cell cancer of the testis (NSGCTT).

METHODS

From September 1976 to February 2000 we operated on 75 patients for NSGCTT on clinical stage 1 disease. Average age was 29.5 years (range 16-71). After orchiectomy, therapeutic options included retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RLND) for 44 patients (58.6%), surveillance for 26 (34.6%) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy for 5 (6.6%). Testis primary tumor samples were assessed for studying prognostic risk factors that included vascular and/or lymphatic invasion (IV/IL+), percentage of embryonal carcinoma (%EC) and absence of yolk sac tumor (YS-).

RESULTS

All patients were alive and disease-free. The average age follow-up was 84.5 months (range 1-254). Relapses occurred in 11 (14.6%) patients after an average follow-up of 9.09 months (range 3-24). Prognostic risk factors were detected as follows: IV/IL+ in 17 cases (22.7%), (50-80%) EC in 23 (30.6%), CE% > 80 in 23 (30.6%), YS- in 55 (72%). In 8 (10.6%) patients there was not any prognostic risk factor. Disease relapse related to prognostic risk factors was detected as follows: 18.1% for VI/LI, 90.9% for EC% > 50 (27.2% for 50-80% EC and 63.6% for CE% > 80) and 90.9% for YS-. Relapsing rates between patients with EC% > 80 and 50-80% EC resulted statistically significant (p = 0.02, odds ratio = 12.25). Relapsing rates between patients on surveillance and those who underwent RLND was next to be significant (p = 0.05, odds ratio 3.68).

CONCLUSIONS

EC% > 80 is a prognostic risk factor for disease relapse in patients with clinical stage 1 NSGCT who are selected in a high risk group requiring RPLND or neoadjuvant chemotherapy as therapeutical option.

Interstitial pressure gradients around joints; location of chief resistance to fluid drainage from the rabbit knee

The hypothesis has been advanced that synovium offers the main resistance to fluid escape from joints, even though it is under 20 microm thick. To test this, fluid was infused into the knee joint cavity of anaesthetised rabbits to set up a pressure gradient, then the profile of periarticular interstitial fluid pressure (P(if)) was measured by advancing a micropipette, connected to a servo-null pressure recorder, in steps through a periarticular tissue 'window' until the joint cavity was entered. With intra-articular pressure (P(j)) raised to 15 cmH(2)O (the pressure of an acute joint effusion) the pressure gradient dP(if) /dx (where x is distance) across the synovial lining was 0.47 +/- 0.04 cmH(2)O microm(-1) (n = 10 joints). This was 23.5-fold greater than the gradient in the subsynovium (0.02 +/- 0.01 cmH(2)O microm(-1); P < 0.0001, Student's t test), indicating that the hydraulic resistivity of the subsynovium is 4 % of that of the synovium. The pressure profile was not altered by circulatory arrest. To test the hypothesis further, the effect of a stab perforation of the synovial lining on fluid drainage rate ((.Q(s)) was studied. Perforation raised both.Q(s) and the conductance term d.Q(s)/dP(j) more than 10-fold (n = 6 joints; P < 0.0001, ANOVA). The results thus support the view that, despite its thinness, the synovial lining offers the main hydraulic resistance to fluid drainage from a synovial joint.

Influence of actin cytoskeleton on intra-articular and interstitial fluid pressures in synovial joints

Fibroblast microfilamentous actin (F-actin) influences interstitial fluid pressure via linkages to collagen in rat skin (Berg et al., 2001). The present aims were to determine whether the actin cytoskeleton of synovial endothelium, fibroblasts, and synoviocytes influences in vivo (i) fluid exchange between a joint cavity and synovial microcirculation and (ii) extracellular fluid pressures in joints. Rabbit knee joints were treated intra-articularly with the F-actin disrupting drugs cytochalasin D and latrunculin B while joint fluid pressure P(j) was recorded. In joints injected with small volumes of control solution, P(j) fell with time (-0.05 +/- 0.01 cm H2O x min(-1), mean +/- SEM, n = 9, equivalent drainage rate 3.9 microl x min(-1)). Cytochalasin or latrunculin reversed this in approximately 4 min in vivo; P(j) increased with time, e.g., +0.12 +/- 0.04 cm H2O x min(-1) at 200 microM cytochalasin (equivalent filtration rate into joint 6.6-12.5 microl x min(-1), n = 4), with a cytochalasin EC50 of 45 microM. Plasma gamma-globulin clearance into the joint cavity was also increased. Post mortem, cytochalasin did not reverse dP(j)/dt and had no more effect on P(j) than did control solution. Also, when synovial interstitial fluid pressures were measured by servonull micropipette post mortem (control -0.95 +/- 0.37 cmH2O, n = 18) cytochalasin had no significant effect on interstitial pressure over 60 min, even at 1 mM. It was concluded that synovial endothelial F-actin has an important role in the normal synovial microvascular resistance to fluid filtration and plasma gamma-globulin permeation and is thus a potential link between pro-inflammatory mediators and arthritic joint effusions. The results provided no support for the hypothesis that synoviocyte F-actin influences the swelling tendency of synovial matrix and hence extracellular fluid pressures, in contrast to the findings of Berg et al. (2001) in rat dermis.

Anticonvulsant preclinical profile of CHF 3381: dopaminergic and glutamatergic mechanisms

Following intraperitoneal or oral administrations, CHF 3381 ([n-(2-indanyl)-glycinamide hydrochloride]) protected rats against maximal electroshock (MES) test seizures. As glutamatergic pathways play a pivotal role in epilepsy, to better characterize the molecular mechanisms of action of CHF 3381, the drug effects on the binding of the excitatory amino acid antagonist [3H]-MK-801 in the presence of n-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), spermidine, or the combination of both ligands, were studied. CHF 3381 inhibited the [3H]-MK-801 specific binding in a noncompetitive fashion in respect to NMDA and polyamines recognition sites. CHF 3381 failed to change the kinetic characteristic of glycine B receptors labeled with [3H]-glycine; in contrast, it significantly increased K(d) values when the receptors were labeled with the more specific compound [3H]-MDL 105,519. CHF 3381 antagonized dopamine (DA)-induced behavioral responses and inhibited, in a glycine-dependent manner, the NMDA-induced [3H]-DA release from rat striatal slices, but it failed to change either the kinetic characteristics of D1, D2, or D3 receptors in synaptic plasma membranes (SPM) or the [3H]-DA uptake from striatal synaptosomes. Moreover, in primary cell cultures of cortical neurons, this drug exhibited glycine-independent neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. It is concluded that this compound could have a potential use in several disease states where a pathological high level of NMDA receptor activation is thought to occur.

Value of the dorsal cutaneous guinea pig model in selecting topical antiviral formulations for the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex type 1 disease

Recurrent herpes simplex labialis represents a disease still difficult to treat, despite the availability of many established antiviral drugs used in clinical research since 30 years ago. Although differences between the human disease and that obtained in experimental animal suggest caution in predicting an effective clinical response from the experimental results, some of the animal models seem to be useful in optimising the topical formulation of single antiviral drugs. In the present work the dorsal cutaneous guinea pig model was used to compare 5 different topical antiviral formulations with clinical promise (active molecule: 5% w/w micronized aciclovir, CAS 59277-89-3), using both roll-on and lipstick application systems. The aim being to evaluate which vehicle (water, oil, low melting and high melting fatty base) and application system (roll-on, lipstick) enhances the skin penetration and the antiviral activity of the drug, after an experimental intradermal infection with Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). As reference, a commercial formulation (5% aciclovir ointment) was used. The cumulative results of this study showed that the formulation A, containing 5% aciclovir in an aqueous base in a roll-on application system, has the better antiviral efficacy in reducing the severity of cutaneous lesions and the viral titer; among the lipsticks preparations, the formulation D, containing 5% aciclovir in a low melting fatty base, demonstrates a very strong antiviral activity, though slightly less than formulation A. This experimental work confirms the validity of the dorsal cutaneous guinea pig model as a rapid and efficient method to compare the antiviral efficacy of new formulations, with clinical promise, to optimise the topical formulation of the active antiviral drugs.

MPTP-induced apoptosis in the retina of goldfish

Neuronal degeneration observed in the goldfish retina after MPTP administration, displays features of apoptosis, a physiological mechanism of cell death that occurs during development. The ultrastructural features of degenerating retinal neurons, that are seen in the inner nuclear layer two days after intravitreal MPTP administration, are consistent with classic changes observed in the programmed cell death. The DNA strand breaks that characterize apoptotic death are in situ detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling.

Densitometric analysis of Western blot assays for feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies

Western blot (WB) strips for antibodies directed to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) were analysed using reflectance densitometry by a semiautomatic densitometer. This method was used to quantify the antibody responses to different FIV proteins in both vaccinated and naturally or experimentally-infected cats. In order to increase reproducibility, reagents and protocols were accurately standardised and internal controls were added. In a first format, an internal control band consisting of feline IgG was added to each blot to minimise the effect of band intensity variation. In a second format, antibody concentrations were calculated from the ratio of the densities produced by test sera and by positive and negative standard sera. The sera under scrutiny were also examined by standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the results obtained compared with those of the corresponding WB. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the results obtained with the two methods, and this was especially evident when ELISA titres were compared to corrected WB values (P = 0.001). Densitometric analysis of WB assays allowed to quantify the antibodies against FIV proteins and might be useful to investigate possible humoral immune correlates of protection in FIV vaccination studies and antibody production in the early phase of infection. The quantitation of antibodies to Gag and Env FIV antigens might be used to obtain further informations on the course of FIV disease, as previously demonstrated in human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infections.

Regional distribution of nitric oxide synthase and NADPH-diaphorase activities in the central nervous system of teleosts

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and NADPH-diaphorase activities were investigated in discrete areas of the central nervous system of goldfish and brown trout. Both species showed a similar distribution pattern of nNOS activity with regional differences in all examined areas. Telencephalon and hypothalamus showed the highest nNOS values, while in the goldfish cerebellum and its valvula nNOS was not detectable. In both species, NADPH-diaphorase activity showed a lower regional variability, compared to nNOS. The highest activity was measured in the olfactory bulbs where, conversely, low levels of nNOS activity were present. The non close correspondence between NOS and NADPH-diaphorase activities confirms the discrepancies indicated by morphological data. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of a nNOS isoform of about 150 kDa mol. wt. corresponding to that of mammals. The pattern of nNOS expression in the considered brain regions of the goldfish and trout was comparable to the levels of the nNOS activity.