Neurogenic Dysphagia

This article provides an overview of neurogenic dysphagia, describing the evaluation and management of swallowing dysfunction in various neurologic diseases. The article will focus on stroke, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis.

Cinematic reflectometry using QIKR, the quite intense kinetics reflectometer

The Quite Intense Kinetics Reflectometer (QIKR) will be a general-purpose, horizontal-sample-surface neutron reflectometer. Reflectometers measure the proportion of an incident probe beam reflected from a surface as a function of wavevector (momentum) transfer to infer the distribution and composition of matter near an interface. The unique scattering properties of neutrons make this technique especially useful in the study of soft matter, biomaterials, and materials used in energy storage. Exploiting the increased brilliance of the Spallation Neutron Source Second Target Station, QIKR will collect specular and off-specular reflectivity data faster than the best existing such machines. It will often be possible to collect complete specular reflectivity curves using a single instrument setting, enabling "cinematic" operation, wherein the user turns on the instrument and "films" the sample. Samples in time-dependent environments (e.g., temperature, electrochemical, or undergoing chemical alteration) will be observed in real time, in favorable cases with frame rates as fast as 1 Hz. Cinematic data acquisition promises to make time-dependent measurements routine, with time resolution specified during post-experiment data analysis. This capability will be deployed to observe such processes as in situ polymer diffusion, battery electrode charge-discharge cycles, hysteresis loops, and membrane protein insertion into lipid layers.

Sphenoid sinus cholesterol granulomas presenting with abducens nerve palsy

We discuss two patients who presented with sphenoid sinus cholesterol granulomas and associated unilateral abducens nerve palsies. Two case reports from our institution are reported. A literature review of available articles is presented, discussing both cholesterol granulomas of the sphenoid sinus and sphenoid sinus lesions that present with unilateral abducens palsy. A total of nine cases of sphenoid sinus cholesterol granulomas have been previously reported in the literature. A wide variety of sphenoid sinus pathologies can present with unilateral abducens nerve palsies, however no sphenoid sinus cholesterol granulomas with this presentation were found in the literature. In conclusion, cholesterol granulomas should be included in the differential when a patient presents with an expansile mass of the sphenoid sinus and associated unilateral abducens nerve palsy.

Oncological Safety of Autologous Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy for cancer: A case-control study

OBJECTIVE

The use of autologous fat grafting in the context of breast reconstruction is still a matter of controversy. The objective of this study was to compare the local relapse rate in women who had a fat grafting session in the context of breast reconstruction after breast cancer management, to those who had breast reconstruction without fat grafting.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, monocentric, case-control study from January 2007 to December 2017 in our hospital. The cases included women who underwent breast reconstruction with autologous fat grafting and controls, undergoing breast reconstruction without fat grafting. We compared survival and local recurrence between the two groups.

RESULTS

412 women were included: 109 (26.5%) in the lipofilling group and 303 women (73.5%) in the "no lipofilling" group. In the overall study population, lipofilling did not appear to be a predictive factor for recurrence, HR = 1.39 [0.63 - 3.06], p = 0.41; or a predictive factor for overall survival, HR = 0.84 [0.23 - 3.02], p = 0.79, or for distant metastases, HR = 1.10 [0.43 - 2.79], p = 0.84. In contrast, in the subgroup of women treated for invasive cancer, the multivariate analysis showed that lipofilling in this context was an independent predictive factor for local recurrence (HR= 5.06 [1.97 - 10.6], p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

we found an increased risk of local recurrence after lipofilling in women who were managed for invasive breast cancer. This suggests that special consideration should be given to women who have had invasive breast cancer before lipofilling.

Evaluating the solid electrolyte interphase formed on silicon electrodes: a comparison of ex situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ neutron reflectometry

This work details the in situ characterization of the interface between a silicon electrode and an electrolyte using a linear fluorinated solvent molecule.

Classification et analyse de collections d’objets de jeu selon le système ESAR : rapport de recherche

La classification et l’analyse des objets de jeu selon le système ESAR est un système inédit à six facettes. Ces facettes traduisent dans un tableau synthèse les étapes du développement de l’enfant à travers les principales formes d’activités ludiques et les grandes dimensions comportementales, tant aux points de vue cognitif, instrumental, social et langagier qu’affectif. Pour s’assurer d’une constance entre les éventuels utilisateurs de ce système, ce modèle d’analyse a été validé en partie par la méthode inter-juge. Toutes ces facettes, leur contenu ainsi que la validation sont décrits dans le présent article. Ce cadre méthodique s’inspire de la psychologie et des sciences documentaires et permet le classement et l’analyse du matériel ludique en faisant ressortir les habiletés qui différencient chacun des jeux et en reconnaissant sur le plan psychologique les apports spécifiques des jeux analysés.

Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System (QICDSS), an innovative approach

INTRODUCTION

With the growing burden of chronic diseases, surveillance will play an essential role in improving their prevention and control. The Institut national de santé publique du Québec has developed an innovative chronic disease surveillance system, the Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System (QICDSS). We discuss the primary features, strengths and limitations of this system in this report.

METHODS

The QICDSS was created by linking five health administrative databases. Updated annually, it currently covers the period from January 1, 1996, to March 31, 2012. The operational model comprises three steps: (1) extraction and linkage of health administrative data according to specific selection criteria; (2) analysis (validation of case definitions essentially) and production of surveillance measures; and (3) data interpretation, submission and dissemination of information. The QICDSS allows the surveillance of the following chronic diseases: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, osteoporosis, osteoarticular diseases, mental disorders, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The system also lends itself to the analysis of multimorbidity and polypharmacy.

RESULTS

For 2011-2012, the QICDSS contained information on 7 995 963 Quebecers with an average age of 40.8 years. Of these, 95.3% met at least one selection criterion allowing the application of case definitions for chronic disease surveillance. The actual proportion varied with age, from 90.1% for those aged 19 years or less to 99.3% for those aged 65 years or over.

CONCLUSION

The QICDSS provides a way of producing population-based data on the chronic disease burden, health services and prescription drug uses. The system facilitates the integrated study of several diseases in combination, an approach rarely implemented until now in the context of population surveillance. The QICDSS possesses all the essential features of a surveillance system and supports the dissemination of information to public health decision-makers for future actions.

Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System (QICDSS), an innovative approach

Introduction

With the growing burden of chronic diseases, surveillance will play an essential role in improving their prevention and control. The Institut national de santé publique du Québec has developed an innovative chronic disease surveillance system, the Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System (QICDSS). We discuss the primary features, strengths and limitations of this system in this report.

Methodology

The QICDSS was created by linking five health administrative databases. Updated annually, it currently covers the period from January 1, 1996, to March 31, 2012. The operational model comprises three steps: (1) extraction and linkage of health administrative data according to specific selection criteria; (2) analysis (validation of case definitions essentially) and production of surveillance measures; and (3) data interpretation, submission and dissemination of information. The QICDSS allows the surveillance of the following chronic diseases: diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, osteoporosis, osteoarticular diseases, mental disorders, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The system also lends itself to the analysis of multimorbidity and polypharmacy.

Results

For 2011–2012, the QICDSS contained information on 7 995 963 Quebecers with an average age of 40.8 years. Of these, 95.3% met at least one selection criterion allowing the application of case definitions for chronic disease surveillance. The actual proportion varied with age, from 90.1% for those aged 19 years or less to 99.3% for those aged 65 years or over.

Conclusion

The QICDSS provides a way of producing population-based data on the chronic disease burden, health services and prescription drug uses. The system facilitates the integrated study of several diseases in combination, an approach rarely implemented until now in the context of population surveillance. The QICDSS possesses all the essential features of a surveillance system and supports the dissemination of information to public health decision-makers for future actions.

Evaluating solutions to sponsorship bias

More than 40 primary studies, and three recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses, have shown a clear association between pharmaceutical industry funding of clinical trials and pro-industry results. Industry sponsorship biases published scientific research in favour of the sponsors, a result of the strong interest commercial sponsors have in obtaining favourable results. Three proposed remedies to this problem are widely agreed upon among those concerned with the level of sponsorship bias: financial disclosure, reporting standards and trial registries. This paper argues that all of these remedies either fail to address the mechanisms by which pharmaceutical companies' sponsorship leads to biased results-design bias, multiple trials with predictable outcomes, fraud, rhetorical effects and publication bias-or else only inadequately address those mechanisms. As a result, the policies normally proposed for dealing with sponsorship bias are unable to eliminate it. Only completely separating public clinical research from pharmaceutical industry funding can eliminate sponsorship bias.

Metabolic and inflammatory profile in obese patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND

Overweight and obesity have been associated with better survival in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). On the other hand, excess body weight is associated with abnormal metabolic and inflammatory profiles that define the metabolic syndrome and predispose to cardiovascular diseases. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of overweight and obesity on the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome and on the metabolic and inflammatory profiles in patients with COPD.

METHODS

Twenty-eight male patients with COPD were divided into an overweight/obese group [ n = 16, body mass index (BMI) = 33.5 +/- 4.2 kg/m(2)] and normal weight group (n = 12, BMI = 21.1 +/- 2.6 kg/m(2)). Anthropometry, pulmonary function and body composition were assessed. The metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to waist circumference, circulating levels of triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, fasting glycemia and blood pressure. C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), leptin and adiponectin plasma levels were measured.

RESULTS

Airflow obstruction was less severe in overweight/obese compared with normal weight patients (forced expiratory volume(1): 51 +/- 19% versus 31 +/- 12% predicted, respectively, P < 0.01). The metabolic syndrome was diagnosed in 50% of overweight/obese patients and in none of the normal weight patients. TNF-alpha, IL-6 and leptin were significantly higher in overweight/obese patients whereas the adiponectin levels were reduced in the presence of excess weight.

CONCLUSIONS

The metabolic syndrome was frequent in overweight/obese patients with COPD. Obesity in COPD was associated with a spectrum of metabolic and inflammatory abnormalities.

Comparative oxidative metabolic profiles of clomipramine in cats, rats and dogs: preliminary results from an in vitro study

The objectives of this in vitro study were to describe cytochrome-dependent metabolism of clomipramine in canine and feline microsomes, compare metabolic profiles between cats, rats and dogs, and investigate a potential gender-related difference in metabolic activity between male and female cats. Pooled liver microsomes were incubated with clomipramine, where species and gender-specific reactions were initiated by the addition of a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate regenerating system and quenched with methanol at 0, 5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 min, and 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 360 min respectively. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure clomipramine and its metabolites. Preliminary results showed that cat microsomes biotransformed clomipramine slower and less efficiently than rat and dog microsomes. Moreover, gender differences in metabolic profiles suggested that male cat microsomes may be less efficient demethylators and hydroxylators than female cat microsomes. As gender metabolic differences may carry clinical significance for this antidepressant, further studies are warranted.

Pharmacological effects of tiludronate in horses after long-term immobilization

INTRODUCTION

Tiludronate, a bisphosphonate, has recently been introduced in veterinary medicine to treat orthopedic conditions in the horse. This study was designed to evaluate its effects on biochemical biomarkers of bone metabolism and on bone density and structure in an experimental model of disuse osteoporosis induced by cast application in horses.

METHODS

Two groups of eight horses were immobilized during 8 weeks. The first group (P-group) received a placebo, and the second group (T-group) received tiludronate 1 mg/kg by slow IV infusion. Both treatments were administered twice, 28 days apart. Immobilization consisted of stall rest with the left forelimb packed in a fiberglass cast. It was followed by a 4-week remobilization period and an 8-week standardized training protocol. One biomarker of bone resorption, the C-telopeptides of type I collagen cross-links (CTX-1) and one biomarker of bone formation, the bone isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (bone ALP), were assessed. Metacarpus III (MCIII) bone mineral density (BMD) and speed of sound (SOS) were evaluated respectively by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and quantitative ultrasonography (QUS). Lameness was regularly assessed during the remobilization and training periods. Group- and time-related effects were tested by analysis of variance on repeated measurements.

RESULTS

A rapid, transient and significant decrease in CTX-1 concentration was seen after each treatment in the T-group only. No significant differences between groups were seen in the evolution of bone ALP activity. At the end of the experiment, the loss of MCIII BMD measured by DEXA in the immobilized limb was significantly less in the T-group than in the P-group. The MCIII SOS measured by QUS did not significantly vary within or between groups throughout the study.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Tiludronate was found to significantly reduce bone resorption during immobilization, as well as to prevent long-term osteopenia in the immobilized limb. Disuse osteopenia did not affect the lateral superficial cortex of MCIII.

Efficacy of licofelone in dogs with clinical osteoarthritis

To evaluate the effect of licofelone, an arachidonic acid substrate with combined inhibitory activity against 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenases 1 and 2, a double-blind, randomised and placebo-controlled study was conducted in 33 client-owned dogs that were lame owing to hindlimb osteoarthritis. Seventeen of the dogs received a placebo and 16 were treated with 2.5 mg/kg licofelone twice a day for 28 days. The dogs' lameness was assessed on a visual analogue scale (vas), and by force plate analyses at baseline and 14 and 28 days after starting the treatment. After 14 days the mean (se) change in peak vertical force in the licofelone-treated dogs (1.7 [0.8] per cent bodyweight) was significantly greater (P<0.05) than in the placebo-treated dogs (-0.3 [0.6] per cent bodyweight), and after 28 days the difference had increased. In contrast, the dogs' lameness, as assessed by the vas values, had decreased significantly over baseline in both the treated and control groups.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as a Risk Factor for Glucose Metabolism Perturbation and Insulin Resistance

Background: High body mass index (BMI) is associated with better survival in COPD. However, increased BMI and especially waist circumference is associated with elevated pro-inflammatory systemic markers that might contribute to glucose intolerance. On the other hand, COPD is a chronic inflammatory disease that could be a risk factor for impaired glucose metabolism. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of glucose intolerance in COPD patients and control subjects with high waist circumference. Methods: Eleven patients with COPD (age:68±8 yr mean±SD; FEV1:49±17% pred) and 10 control subjects (C) (age:63±6 yr) underwent a 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). All subjects had a waist circumference >102cm and no previous history of diabetes. Height and weight were measured and each subject underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to evaluate fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM) and abdominal tomography to evaluate visceral fat (VF). Blood samples were taken to measure inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-6). Venous blood samples of glucose and insulin were taken while fasting and during OGTT. Insulin resistance was estimated with the fasting homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index. Results: FM, FFM and VF were not different between groups. Diabetes was diagnosed in two subjects in both groups (2hr post OGTT glucose ≥11.1 mmol/l). Four COPD and 1 C had impaired fasting glucose (fasting glucose 5.6–6.9 mmol/l) while 1 COPD and 2 C had impaired glucose tolerance (2hr post OGTT glucose 7.8–11.1 mmol/l). In COPD patients a negative correlation was found between the HOMA index and FEV1 (r2:0.52, P < 0.05). Conclusions: COPD subjects with high waist circumference are similar to control subjects in term of FFM and FM, level of systemic inflammation and response to OGTT. In COPD, the severity of the disease is associated with an insulin resistance that may potentiate the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes in these patients.

Effects of physiological covariables on pharmacokinetic parameters of clomipramine in a large population of cats after a single oral administration

This study was conducted to confirm an interindividual variability in pharmacokinetic parameters of clomipramine in a large population of cats and to identify potential covariables that would explain the presence of such pharmacokinetic variability after a single dose of Clomicalm. Clomipramine hydrochloride was administered orally according to a weight-dose chart from 0.32 to 0.61 mg/kg, to 76 cats and five blood samples were then taken by direct venipuncture at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h. Plasma concentrations of clomipramine and desmethylclomipramine (DCMP) were measured by LC-MS/MS. The Standard Two-Stage technique was used to assess differences and detect correlations between pharmacokinetic parameter estimates and individual covariables. A large interindividual variability in all pharmacokinetic parameters (CV% 64-124) was detected. Statistically significant gender-related differences were detected in MR and Cl/F, where female cats had a higher mean MR (0.53) and faster Cl/F (0.36 L/h.kg) than males (0.36 and 0.21 L/h.kg, respectively). No correlation could be found between clomipramine AUC0-24 h or DCMP AUC0-24 h and sedation scores. Further feline studies are required to assess these findings after multiple dosing of clomipramine and DCMP to allow clinical extrapolation.

Pharmacokinetics of clomipramine and desmethylclomipramine after single-dose intravenous and oral administrations in cats

A cross-over study was performed in six adult spayed cats to determine the pharmacokinetics of clomipramine and its metabolite, desmethylclomipramine (DCMP) after intravenous (0.25 mg/kg) and oral (0.5 mg/kg) single-dose administrations. Plasma clomipramine and DCMP were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography at regular intervals for up to 30 h. Intravenous clomipramine best fit a two-compartmental model yielding an elimination rate constant of 0.037-0.09 h(-1) from which a mean half-life of 12.3 h was calculated. Mean clomipramine AUC(0--infinity) (ngxh/mL), clearance (L/hxkg), V(ss) (L/kg) and MRT (h) values were 652.5, 0.393, 5.0, and 13.5, respectively. Compartmental modeling for clomipramine, after oral administration, and DCMP after both administrations, produced wide parameter estimates and plots of residuals indicated poor goodness of fit. Noncompartmental analysis yielded mean AUC(0--30 h) (ngxh/mL), C(max) (ng/mL) and T(max) (h) of 948.3, 87.5 and 6.2 for clomipramine, and 613.8, 34.8, and 12.8 for DCMP respectively after oral administration. Clomipramine bioavailability was 90%. The present study showed marked pharmacokinetic variability for clomipramine and DCMP through biphasic absorption and potential genetic variability in clomipramine metabolism. It was concluded that population pharmacokinetics would allow better characterization of clomipramine variability that may explain the variability in clinical response noted in cats.

Adaptation of the diaphragm and the vastus lateralis in mild-to-moderate COPD

The chronology of diaphragm and vastus lateralis adaptation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has not been studied. The hypothesis of this study was that muscle changes would occur earlier in the diaphragm than in the vastus lateralis in COPD, a finding that would suggest that local factors would be more important than systemic factors in determining the muscle phenotypic expression, at least in mild-to-moderate disease. The adaptation of the vastus lateralis and diaphragm muscles was evaluated in patients with mild-to-moderate COPD and in subjects with normal pulmonary function. In both groups, the oxidative potential and the number of lipofuscin inclusions were higher in the diaphragm than in the vastus lateralis. Compared to control, the diaphragm in COPD had a higher oxidative capacity and a higher proportion of type I fibres, with a reciprocal decrease in type IIA fibres, while there was no difference in diaphragmatic cross sectional areas, capillarisation and lipofuscin inclusions. No significant differences were found in the vastus lateralis from both groups. In conclusion, these data indicate that the diaphragm in controls and in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has a higher oxidative potential than the vastus lateralis, and that muscle adaptation occurs earlier in the diaphragm than in the vastus lateralis in mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

[Grapefruit juice and drugs: a hazardous combination?]

A single glass of grapefruit juice can improve the oral bioavailability of a drug thus either increasing its efficacy or enhancing its adverse effects particularly if the therapeutic index is narrow. Grapefruit juice acts by inhibiting presystemic drug metabolism mediated by CYP P450 3A4 in the small bowel and this interaction would appear to be more relevant if the CYP 3A4 content is high and the drug has a strong first pass degradation. Intestinal P-glycoprotein may also be affected by grapefruit juice. The compounds responsible for this food-drug interaction have not as yet been identified but this phenomenon could result from a complex synergy between flavonoids (naringin, naringenin), furanocoumarins (6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin, bergamottin) and sesquiterpen (nootkatone). In our study, we report the mechanisms of action of grapefruit juice and the interactions between grapefruit juice and 42 drugs; to date, only 12 drugs showed no interaction. Taking these results into consideration, patients should be educated about grapefruit juice intake with medication.

Impact of smoking on clinical and angiographic restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention: another smoker's paradox?

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have suggested that smokers may require less frequent repeated revascularization after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared with nonsmokers. However, the mechanism of this phenomenon is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We examined the association between smoking and restenosis using pooled data from 8671 patients treated with PCI in 9 multicenter clinical trials. Clinical restenosis was examined in the cohort of 5682 patients who were assigned to clinical follow-up only. Angiographic restenosis was evaluated in the subset of 2989 patients who were assigned to mandatory angiographic restudy. Among those patients assigned to clinical follow-up only, target lesion revascularization (TLR) occurred in 6.6% of smokers and 10.1% of nonsmokers (P<0.001). After adjustment for baseline clinical and angiographic differences, the rate of TLR remained significantly lower in smokers with an adjusted relative risk of 0.69 (95% CI, 0.54 to 0.88). Among the angiographic cohort, there were no differences in the rates of angiographic restenosis or follow-up diameter stenosis in either univariate or multivariate analyses. This dissociation between clinical and angiographic restenosis was explained in part by reduced sensitivity to restenosis on the part of smokers and by the greater reluctance of smokers to seek medical attention despite recurrent angina.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing contemporary PCI, cigarette smoking is associated with a lower rate of subsequent TLR without affecting angiographic restenosis. These findings have important implications for the follow-up of smokers after PCI and suggest that cross-study comparisons of rates of clinical restenosis must account for the potential confounding effect of smoking.

Evaluation of the impact of parasite control with the IVOMEC SR Bolus given at breeding age on first lactation yield in Holstein heifers

This field trial was conducted to test the effect of treatment with a sustained-release ivermectin bolus on first lactation milk production (projected to 305 days) and milk composition (percent fat and protein) in breeding-aged Holstein heifers. From 12 herds, 96 heifers were randomly allocated at turnout to treatment with a commercially available ivermectin bolus (n=49) or untreated control (n=47) groups. Animals were weighed at turnout, mid-season, and at the end of the grazing season. Fecal samples were taken and nematode eggs counted. Projected 305 days milk production, fat and protein content were retrieved from PATLQ reports (Quebec DHI records) for heifers that calved during the subsequent 10 months. The heifers had a mean weight of 409 and 404 kg at turnout, respectively, for control and treated groups. Nematode egg excretion was relatively low (mean of 10 egg/g (EPG) for controls at housing) throughout the pasture season. The average daily gain (ADG) and total weight gain (TWG) over the entire pasture season was found to be higher in treated heifers compared to controls (ADG: difference=0.08 kg per day, P=0.010; TWG: difference=12.82 kg, P=0.013). Taking into account a possible farm effect, the 305 days milk production for IVOMEC SR bolus-treated heifers was significantly higher than for untreated animals (mean+/-S.D.; 348+/-476 kg; t-test=2.31, P<0.05). Overall, 8 of the 10 remaining farms in the study demonstrated a positive milk production difference in treated (n=34) versus control heifers (n=33). The results of this study suggest that preventive treatment of breeding-aged, grazing dairy heifers with a sustained-release ivermectin bolus provides a significant weight-gain which may translate to a significant milk production advantage, even in situations with commercial utilization of moderately contaminated pastures.

R-phycoerythrin-cyanine 5 tandem discerns CD72 polymorphism

By fluorescence analysis, we demonstrated that a fluorochrome tandem composed of R-phycoerythrin and cyanine 5 specifically recognized B cells from SJL, AKR, MRL/Mp, and NOD mouse strains, whereas B cells from C57BL/6, DBA/2, SWR, 129/Sv, and BALB/c were not stained. A strict correlation was observed between the fixation of the fluorochrome and the pattern of expression of the pan-B cell marker CD72, i.e., early expression in B-cell lineage development and downregulation on the terminally differentiated activated B cells. Three allelic forms, CD72a, CD72b and CD72c have been well characterized, and show a high number of amino acid substitutions concentrated in the membrane-distal extracellular domain. Using a PCR approach, we determined that all mouse strains positive for fluorochrome staining display the CD72c allelic form. Moreover, a genetic analysis showed that the fixation of the fluorochrome on the B cell is exclusively dependent on the presence of the CD72c allele. Together, these results strongly suggest that the tandem binds a molecular complex comprising the CD72c molecule or recognizes directly the CD72c molecule itself.

[The wasp-mosquito syndrome: extension of cross-allergenicity to the horsefly]

The crossed allergenicity between wasp venom and mosquito extract was shown during recent work based on clinical observations and correlation studies between different biological parameters, indicating an IgE-dependent biological mechanism. A common protein was identified by Immunoblot. From observation of one of our patients involved in this work, we examined the possibility of the extension of crossed reactivity between wasp, mosquito and horsefly. In effect, our patient presented an anaphylactic reaction with neurological complications from attack on the central grey nucleus, shown by IRM; the immunological study showed a common protein between wasp venom and the total extracts of mosquito and horsefly.

[The wasp/mosquito syndrome]

The authors describe for the first time the Wasp/Mosquito syndrome. The allergenic cross-reactivity between Vespula wasp venom and mosquito extract and the reverse rest objectively on several criteria. The frequency of the association between sensibilization to Vespula wasp venom and mosquito: In 10 subjects who had specific IgE to Vespula wasp venom 3 also had mosquito-specific IgE (30%), but out of 11 subjects with positive mosquito-specific IgE 10 also were positive with Vespula wasp venom specific IgE (about 91%). Three observations were documented showing a clinical and biological relationship between sensitisation to mosquito and wasp venom. A first patient had an anaphylactic reaction after a dozen mosquito bites. The allergy assessment confirmed sensitisation to the mosquitos, but also to Vespides (wasp, hornet) venoms. A second patient had an anaphylactic reaction after a wasp sting in 1997. From that date, he had local reactions, indeed loco-regional, to mosquito bites. The allergy assessment confirmed the double sensibilization to mosquito and wasp venom. Finally, a third patient at first had local reactions, also loco-regional, to mosquito bites, then two systemic reactions after mosquito bites. A first allergy assessment, made exclusively to hymenoptera venoms (not to mosquitos), showed a sensitivity to wasp venom and the patient, by mistake, was desensitised to wasp venom, which did not prevent recurrence after mosquito bites. After a second time, the allergy assessment for hymenoptera and mosquito, confirmed a double sensitisation (mosquito and Vespula wasp). Indirect criteria such as parallel increase in specific IgEs to Vespula wasp venom and mosquito in a patient who was desensitised only to mosquito and who had not been re-stung by wasps. Finally on direct criteria, such as: The inhibition technique by CAP RAST, which was positive in two ways: Vespula wasp--specific IgE was inhibited by mosquito extract, and vice versa. Electrophoresis, which showed a protein common to Vespula wasp venom and mosquito extract of M.W. of the order or 42KD and isoelectric point between 4.5 and 5. An immunoblot study identified this common protein with a M.W. of 44KD which is the same as hyaluronidase.

Impact of a sustained-release ivermectin bolus on weight gain in breeding age Holstein heifers under commercial pasture conditions in southern Québec

This field trial was designed to test the effect of treatment with a sustained-release ivermectin bolus on average daily and total weight gain in breeding age Holstein heifers under commercial pasture conditions in southern Quebec. One hundred and twelve heifers from 12 herds were randomly assigned at turnout either to treatment with a commercially-available ivermectin bolus or to remain as untreated controls. Ninety-six heifers, 49 treated animals and 47 controls, completed the trial. Animals were weighed at turnout, midseason, and at the end of the grazing season. Fecal samples were collected at each of these times and nematode eggs counted. Nematode egg excretion was relatively low throughout the pasture season, which was abnormally warm and dry until midsummer. Over the entire pasture season, average daily weight gain was higher in treated than in control animals (difference = 0.08 kg/day, P = 0.010). Total weight gain was also higher in treated animals than in control animals (difference = 12.82 kg, P = 0.013). The results of this study suggest that preventive treatment of breeding age, grazing dairy heifers with a sustained-release ivermectin bolus provides a significant weight gain advantage, in situations with moderate utilization of moderately contaminated pastures.

[Comparison of the measurements of total IGE using the CAP-RIA technique and the UNICAP-FEIA technique]

The contribution of a new method of measurement of total IgE by the Fluoro-Enzymo-Immuno-assay (FEIA) with the assistance of Pharmacia UNICAP automation is very reliable since, when compared with the measurement by the CAP SYSTEM RIA on 144 patients who were clinically allergic (84 with a raised and 60 with a normal IgE titre) the result of a comparative study between the two techniques is statistically highly significant. The two methods were also compared by age groups and these results were also statistically highly significant.

[Immuno-biological diagnosis of food allergy]

Food allergy is becoming more frequent, with 6% of asthmatics reporting an isolated food allergy, and 5 to 6% of atopic dermatitis patients also have either a single or multiple true food allergy. There is value in immuno-biological diagnosis by: Measurement of total serum IgE. Measurement of mono-allergen-specific IgE, following a measurement by a multi-allergen of the Trophatope type. A study of elimination of foods for 2 or 3 months followed by their re-introduction. Oral provocation tests in a hospital environment under clinical control and subsequent measurement of the mediators:-Plasma histamine, tryptase, and urinary methylhistamine to give proof of responsibility of the food allergen. Nowadays, it is perfectly possible to include in diagnosis the new technologies of the test of activation of basophils/or lymphocytes by means of flow cytometry.

[Immunobiologic diagnosis of food allergy]

Food allergy is becoming more frequent, with 6% of asthmatics reporting an isolated food allergy, and 5 to 6% of atopic dermatitis patients also have either a single or multiple true food allergy. There is value in immuno-biological diagnosis by: Measurement of total serum IgE. Measurement of mono-allergen-specific IgE, following a measurement by a multi-allergen of the Trophatope type. A study of elimination of foods for 2 or 3 months followed by their re-introduction. Oral provocation tests in a hospital environment under clinical control and subsequent measurement of the mediators: Plasma histamine, tryptase, and urinary methylhistamine, to give proof of responsibility of the food allergen. Nowadays, it is perfectly possible to include in diagnosis the new technologies of the test of activation of basophils/or lymphocytes by means of flow cytometry.

Phase calibration and applications of a liquid-crystal spatial light modulator

A simple phase-characterization method for spatial light modulators is proposed. The low-cost method permits high-precision measurement and provides data for the setting of the spatial-light-modulator operating point in the phase-modulation mode. The dynamic phase response is used to perform efficient kinoform recording. In order to record the kinoform, we modify the global iterative coding to compute phase holograms. Finally, modified phase-phase correlation is introduced. The phase-phase correlator permits sharper correlation peaks, better energy transmission, and higher discrimination than an amplitude-phase correlation. Optical experimental results are presented.

Reproductive Fitness and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Variation among Isolates of Pratylenchus vulnus

The reproductive fitness of seven isolates of Pratylenchus vulnus from different geographical areas and hosts was assessed in monoxenic cultures (carrot), and greenhouse cultures (plum, sour orange, and quince). The genetic makeup of the different isolates was compared by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR). The apple (PvAP-S) and apricot (PvAT-F) isolates reproduced less in monoxenic cultures than the rose (PvRO-S) and walnut (PvWA-A and PvWA-U) isolates. On plum, the rose isolate (PvRO-S) reproduced better than the apple (PvAP-S) and walnut isolate from the United States (PvWA-U). On sour orange, the apple (PvAP-S), unknown origin (PvU-UK), and walnut isolate from Argentina (PvWA-A) multiplied well, whereas the walnut isolate from the United States (PvWA-U), apricot (PvAT-F), and rose (PvRO-S) did not. On quince, the apple (PvAP-S) and walnut (PvWA-U) isolates showed a higher reproduction than the one from unknown origin (PvU-UK). RAPD-PCR patterns among the seven P. vulnus isolates were similar, although high intraspecific varibility was detected. Very few bands of P. neglectus were shared by any population of P. vulnus. A high degree of similarity was found among the patterns corresponding to the rose (PvRO-S), apple (PvAP-S), walnut from the United States (PvWA-U), and unknown origin (PvUK-U) isolates. The apricot isolate (PvAT-F) was the most dissimilar among the seven isolates. No correlation could be established between the genetic variation of P. vulnus detected by RAPD-PCR and reproductive fitness. Results demonstrate high genetic varibility between geographically separated populations of P. vulnus.

Effects of Six Pratylenchus vulnus Isolates on the Growth of Peach-Almond Hybrid and Apple Rootstocks

The effects of six geographic isolates of Pratylenchus vulnus on the growth of GF-677 peach-almond hybrid and M-26 apple rootstocks were determined under greenhouse conditions. Plantlets were obtained from micropropagated plant material, and nematode isolates were reared in monoxenic cultures. All isolates suppressed growth on GF-677 compared with the uninfected controls. Isolate PvRO-S from Spain affected top weight of GF-677 more adversely than PvAT-F from France. Final population densities (Pf) of all P. vulnus on GF-677 were greater than 14.7 times the initial densities (Pi). They increased 61.5-fold on plants infected by PvWA-U from the United States. PvWA-U-, PvAT-F, and geographic undetermined PvU-UK isolates did not affect the growth of M-26 apple rootstock compared with PvAP-S, PvRO-S (both from Spain), and PvWA-A from Argentina isolates, which severely suppressed shoot growth of this rootstock. On M-26, Pf of the more parasitically fit isolates PvWA-A, PvAP-S, and PvRO-S were greater than those of nondamaging PvWA-U, PvAT-F, and PvU-UK isolates (>41.4 vs. <14.7 times the Pi). PvWA-U and PvAT-F reproduced more on GF-677 than on M-26 (>28.6 vs. <6.5 times the Pi). Isolate PvRO-S reproduced well and was quite destructive on both rootstocks. Results confirm the existence of strains with different damage potentials among geographically separated populations of P. vulnus.

A retrospective study of bronchoalveolar lavage cytology in horses with clinical findings of small airway disease

A retrospective of 69 bronchoalveolar lavages (BAL) on horses was done to investigate the relationship between bronchoalveolar cell types and clinical signs in horses with small airway disease. Horses were grouped according to clinical findings. The groups were as follows: I. cough only (n = 14), II. cough with mucopurulent secretions in the trachea (n = 14), III. cough, mucopurulent secretions in the trachea and abnormal lung sounds (n = 24) and IV., all of the above plus dyspnea at rest (n = 17). An asymptomatic group was formed from horses in the same population to serve as control (n = 8). There was a significant difference between cytological profiles of asymptomatic horses and the symptomatic group horses, indicating that BAL findings are different when clinical manifestations of the disease are present. Furthermore, neutrophil counts increased as the severity of clinical signs increased from group I to IV. Some variations of other cell types such as mast cells were also reported. Though a significant increase in neutrophils was predictable in dyspneic horses, there was an absence of typical cytological pictures for the other symptomatic but non-dyspneic groups of horses. This study concludes that BAL is a useful diagnostic tool which allows further characterisation of inflammatory processes when clinical signs if small airway disease are apparent.

Cystic teratoma of the ovary: CT detection

Computed tomography (CT) was performed in 38 patients with 41 benign cystic teratomas of the ovary and two patients with malignant transformation. CT depicted all tumors. The presence of fat in 40 of 43 cases (93%), tooth or calcification in 24 of 43 (56%), Rokitansky protuberance in 35 of 43 (81%), tufts of hair in 28 of 43 (65%), and a fat-fluid level in five of 43 (12%) allowed a definite diagnosis of ovarian cystic teratoma in 42 of 43 cases (98%). In the two cases of malignancy, single large (greater than 10 cm) plugs (with uptake of contrast medium in one) with a cauliflower appearance and an irregular border forming an obtuse angle with the inner wall of the cyst suggested malignant transformation. In three cases of benign cystic teratoma, a mucinous tumor (one benign, one borderline, one malignant) arising in the same ovary was seen at pathologic examination but was only diagnosed with the help of CT in two of three cases. Thickening of the tube was noted in two cases of torsion of the adnexa. CT findings were compared with findings at radiography of the abdomen and hysterosalpingography in 30 cases, ultrasound in 31, and magnetic resonance imaging in three. This study demonstrated that CT was the best procedure for imaging cystic teratomas of the ovary.

[Contribution of MRI in the staging of cancer of the bladder. Apropos of 40 cases]

56 patients with bladder carcinoma were examined by magnetic resonance in the pre-operative staging. In 40 patients where total cystectomy with enterocystoplasty and pelvic node dissection were performed, a good correlation with surgical and pathologic findings was obtained. MR examination using T1 (TR 400 ms, TE 28 ms) and T2 (TR 1,200-1,600 ms, TE 40 80 120 ms) weighted images in different planes where performed after biopsy of the bladder tumor through endoscopy and within 1 or 2 weeks before surgery. Neoplasms were characterized by site, size and growth pattern. Extension through the deep muscle of the bladder wall was correctly identified in 95% with a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 95%. Extension through perivesical fat was assessed accurately in 85% with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 100%. Accuracy in evaluating invasion of adjacent organs was 85%, sensitivity 44%, specificity 96%. Lymphadenopathy has been accurately assessed in 97.5% with a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 100%. MR correctly staged the tumor according to TNM classification in 24/40 (60%) patients, overestimated the extension in 3/40 (7.5%) and underestimated the extension in 13/40 (32.5%).

Enhancement of angiogenesis by bFGF in mandibular bone graft healing in the rabbit

The effectiveness of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) as an in vivo angiogenic factor was evaluated in autogeneic bone grafts to the rabbit mandible. Block cortical grafts harvested from the ilium were implanted into sites in the mandibular ramus or body. The basic fibroblast growth factor was continuously introduced over a period of 14 days through subcutaneous osmotic pumps. Increased vascularity, as assessed by vessel number and depth of penetration into the grafts, was noted at 10 days postoperatively in the bFGF stimulated side as compared to contralateral control grafts. At the fourteenth postoperative day, bFGF administration was discontinued and a decrease in angiogenesis was noted over the ensuing 2 weeks so that after 1 postoperative month, little difference could be detected between the stimulated and nonstimulated grafts. Assessment of osseous healing at the 1 month postoperative interval using triple fluorochrome labeling did not reveal evidence of accelerated osteogenesis on the previously stimulated side.