The Effect of Erwinia amylovora Infection in Apple Saplings and Fruit on the Behavior of Delia platura (Diptera: Anthomyiidae)

The Vector Manipulation Hypothesis (VMH) posits that phytopathogens develop strategies to enhance dissemination by mediating behavior change in insect vectors. The VMH is poorly studied in phytopathogenic bacteria, especially in systems with numerous, occasional vectors. Erwinia amylovora is a bacterial pathogen of pome fruit that produces a bacterial ooze and is mechanically vectored by insects after they feed on ooze. The blossom blight phase of the disease exhibits manipulation of honeybees, leading to enhanced transmission, but whether the same occurs during the shoot blight phase of the disease is unknown. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of E. amylovora on the behavior of Delia platura, a fly with a worldwide endemic presence that may transmit E. amylovora. We show that D. platura prefer infected, oozing fruit to uninfected fruit in choice tests and that preference subsides when bacterial ooze is removed from the infected fruit. Flies did not exhibit a preference between infected saplings and uninfected saplings. The volatiles of infected fruit did not attract D. platura, indicating that diseased fruit odor is not responsible for the observed preference for infected fruit. Flies did not differentiate between sapling odors until infected trees had died, at which point they preferred uninfected tree odors. This study supports previous hypotheses suggesting that E. amylovora takes advantage of existing plant-insect interactions, though it is not fully understood how significantly behavioral changes affect transmission. Additional pathosystems with occasional, nonspecific vectors should be studied to further understanding of the VMH.

Plasmodium Condensin Core Subunits SMC2/SMC4 Mediate Atypical Mitosis and Are Essential for Parasite Proliferation and Transmission

Condensin is a multi-subunit protein complex regulating chromosome condensation and segregation during cell division. In Plasmodium spp., the causative agent of malaria, cell division is atypical and the role of condensin is unclear. Here we examine the role of SMC2 and SMC4, the core subunits of condensin, during endomitosis in schizogony and endoreduplication in male gametogenesis. During early schizogony, SMC2/SMC4 localize to a distinct focus, identified as the centromeres by NDC80 fluorescence and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) analyses, but do not form condensin I or II complexes. In mature schizonts and during male gametogenesis, there is a diffuse SMC2/SMC4 distribution on chromosomes and in the nucleus, and both condensin I and condensin II complexes form at these stages. Knockdown of smc2 and smc4 gene expression reveals essential roles in parasite proliferation and transmission. The condensin core subunits (SMC2/SMC4) form different complexes and may have distinct functions at various stages of the parasite life cycle.

Optimization of pegylated iron oxide nanoplatforms for antibody coupling and bio-targeting

PEGylation has been established as a valuable strategy to minimize nanoparticle clearance by the reticulo-endothelial system due to hydrophilicity and steric repulsion of PEG chains. In this study we functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle surface with two PEG differing in their length (n = 23 and 44) and terminal functionality, COOH and CH₃. By varying the ratio of the two different PEG, we optimized the molecular architecture of the nanoplatform to obtain maximum stability and low toxicity under physiological conditions. The best nanoplatform was evaluated as MRI contrast for mouse brain vascularization imaging at 7 T. The carboxylic acid functions of the nanoplatform were used to covalently bind an antibody, Ab. This antibody, labeled with a fluorophore, targets the ET_A receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor involved in the endothelin axis and overexpressed in various solid tumours, including ovarian, prostate, colon, breast, bladder and lung cancers. In vitro studies, performed by flow cytometry and magnetic quantification, showed the targeting efficiency of the Ab-nanoplatforms. Clearly, an imaging tracer for cancer diagnosis from a bimodal contrast agent (fluorescence and MRI) was thus obtained.

Genetically tailored magnetosomes used as MRI probe for molecular imaging of brain tumor

We investigate here the potential of single step production of genetically engineered magnetosomes, bacterial biogenic iron-oxide nanoparticles embedded in a lipid vesicle, as a new tailorable magnetic resonance molecular imaging probe. We demonstrate in vitro the specific binding and the significant internalization into U87 cells of magnetosomes decorated with RGD peptide. After injection at the tail vein of glioblastoma-bearing mice, we evidence in the first 2 h the rapid accumulation of both unlabeled and functionalized magnetosomes inside the tumor by Enhanced Permeability and Retention effects. 24 h after the injection, a specific enhancement of the tumor contrast is observed on MR images only for RGD-labeled magnetosomes. Post mortem acquisition of histological data confirms MRI results with more magnetosomes found into the tumor treated with functionalized magnetosomes. This work establishes the first proof-of-concept of a successful bio-integrated production of molecular imaging probe for MRI.

The phylogenetic relationship and cross-infection of nucleopolyhedroviruses between the invasive winter moth (Operophtera brumata) and its native congener, Bruce spanworm (O. bruceata)

Disease can affect biological invasions by acting as either a synergist or antagonist. Disease-mediated invasions have important implications for understanding the spread of invasive insects, which cost billions of dollars in damages annually. One such non-native, destructive insect is the winter moth, Operophtera brumata L. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), which causes defoliation and mortality of deciduous trees in its introduced range. In the northeastern United States, winter moth populations overlap with a native congener, Bruce spanworm, Operophtera bruceata Hulst. Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV), appears to be an important natural enemy in Bruce spanworm and there is some evidence that the NPV infection found in winter moth in the northeastern U.S. may originate from Bruce spanworm. By sequencing two viral genes (the polyhedrin and p74 genes) from field-collected larvae of both species, we found that the winter moth virus (OpbuNPV) is distinct from the virus from Bruce spanworm (OpbrNPV). However, the two viruses do constitute a clade within the Alphabaculovirus Group 2 NPVs, indicating that they are more similar to each other than they are to other lepidopteran viruses, even other geometrid-derived NPVs. As far as we know, this is the first report of sequences from an NPV from Bruce spanworm. Results from cross infection trials suggest that cross infection is uncommon if it occurs at all. Our results show that these two closely related species have distinct viruses and, unlike previous suggestions, Bruce spanworm virus is not mediating the winter moth invasion.

Enhancement of Carbon Nanofibers Dispersion on Epoxy Resin Foams Leading to Remarkable Electrical Conductivity Improvement

A simple procedure to evaluate and improve the dispersion of carbon nanofibers is presented and validated, relating the observed dispersion of the nanofibers in an intermediate stage of the production process to the final macroscopic properties of the foams. Epoxy/carbon nanofiber foams with optimal nanofiber dispersion are produced taking advantage of this procedure using inexpensive industrial vapor grown carbon nanofibers. Furthermore, the main characteristics and the electrical resistivity of the foams with improved nanofibers dispersion have been determined and related to the presence of the carbon nanofibers, greatly enhancing the electrical conductivity of the epoxy/carbon nanofiber foams.

Model-Based Network Meta-Analysis: A Framework for Evidence Synthesis of Clinical Trial Data

Model-based meta-analysis (MBMA) is increasingly used in drug development to inform decision-making and future trial designs, through the use of complex dose and/or time course models. Network meta-analysis (NMA) is increasingly being used by reimbursement agencies to estimate a set of coherent relative treatment effects for multiple treatments that respect the randomization within the trials. However, NMAs typically either consider different doses completely independently or lump them together, with few examples of models for dose. We propose a framework, model-based network meta-analysis (MBNMA), that combines both approaches, that respects randomization, and allows estimation and prediction for multiple agents and a range of doses, using plausible physiological dose-response models. We illustrate our approach with an example comparing the efficacies of triptans for migraine relief. This uses a binary endpoint, although we note that the model can be easily modified for other outcome types.

The Many Flavors of Model-Based Meta-Analysis: Part I-Introduction and Landmark Data

Meta-analysis is an increasingly important aspect of drug development as companies look to benchmark their own compounds with the competition. There is scope to carry out a wide range of analyses addressing key research questions from preclinical through to postregistration. This set of tutorials will take the reader through key model-based meta-analysis (MBMA) methods with this first installment providing a general introduction before concentrating on classical and Bayesian methods for landmark data.

Endothelin B receptors targeted by iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with a specific antibody: toward immunoimaging of brain tumors

Vasculature enhancement is observed in mouse brain after intravenous injection of iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with antibody targeting endothelin B receptors over-expressed in glioma.

[Intraoperative avoidance and recognition of recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy in thyroid surgery]

Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy is an intrinsic complication of thyroid surgery. Prevention of nerve palsy is considered to be a feature of quality in this very frequently performed operation. Risk factors and prevention strategies are demonstrated and discussed with reference to the current literature. Exact knowledge of the anatomy and possible variants of the track of the recurrent laryngeal nerve as well as its visualization and careful dissection are the cornerstones for nerve preservation. The use of intraoperative neuromonitoring allows preservation of the anatomical structure and functional integrity of the nerve and lesions which are not visible can be detected. Preconditions for correct interpretation are a standardized application and preoperative and postoperative laryngoscopy.

Bioengineering the hair follicle

The hair follicle develops from the primitive embryonic epidermis as a result of complex epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. The full follicle, consisting of epithelial cylinders under control of a proximal lying mesenchymal papilla, grows in cycles giving rise to a new hair shaft during each cycle. The ability to cycle endows the follicle with regenerative properties. The evolution of hair follicle engineering began with the recognition in the early 1960's that hair follicles could be transplanted clinically into a foreign site and still grow a shaft typical of the donor site. Since that time, it has been found that the follicular papilla has hair follicle inducing properties and that the hair follicle houses within it epithelial stem cells that can respond to hair inductive signals. These findings have laid the foundation for isolating hair-forming cells, for expanding the cells in culture, and for forming new follicles in vivo.

Behavioural signs of depression and apoptosis in the limbic system following myocardial infarction: effects of sertraline

Depression is diagnosed in 15-30% of patients following myocardial infarction (MI) and this may also be observed in the rat. We measured the effects of the antidepressant sertraline on behavioural and biochemical events following MI in a rat model. Following surgery, MI rats and sham controls were treated with sertraline (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline. Subgroups of rats were tested for behavioural depression 14 days after surgery. Apoptosis was estimated in other rats by measuring caspase-3 activity and TUNEL positive cells (3 days after surgery) in limbic structures (amygdale, hippocampus, hypothalamus, frontal and prefrontal cortices). Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was measured 14 days after surgery. Behavioural signs of depression (decreased sucrose intake and forced swimming time) were found in saline-treated MI rats but not in sertraline-treated rats. Compared with controls, caspase-3 activity and TUNEL positive cells were significantly increased in most limbic structures of MI rats. High prefrontal Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in MI rats correlated with low forced swimming time. Apoptosis was not found in sertraline-treated MI rats. These results establish the bases of a rat model of depression following MI and show for the first time that a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor prevents both behavioural and biochemical markers in this model.

Risedronate for the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is an abnormal reduction in bone mass and bone deterioration leading to increased fracture risk. Risedronate belongs to the bisphosphonate class of drugs which act to inhibit bone resorption by interfering with the activity of osteoclasts.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of residronate in the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Relevant randomized controlled trials published between 1966 to 2007 were identified.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Women receiving at least one year of risedronate for postmenopausal osteoporosis were compared to those receiving placebo or concurrent calcium/vitamin D or both. The outcome was fracture incidence.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We carried out study selection and data abstraction in duplicate. Study quality was assessed through the reporting of allocation concealment, blinding and withdrawals. Meta-analysis was preformed using relative risks and a >15% relative change was considered clinically important.

MAIN RESULTS

Seven trials were included in the review representing 14,049 women. Relative (RRR) and absolute (ARR) risk reductions for the 5 mg dose were as follows. Risk estimates for primary prevention were available only for vertebral and non vertebral fractures and showed no statistically significant effect of risedronate on fractures. For secondary prevention, a significant 39% RRR in vertebral fractures (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.76) with 5% ARR was found. For non-vertebral fractures, a significant 20% RRR (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.90) with 2% ARR and for hip fractures there was a significant 26% RRR (RR: 0.74, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.94) with a 1% ARR. When primary and secondary prevention studies were combined, the reduction in fractures remained statistically significant for both vertebral (RR 0.63, 0.51 to 0.77) and non vertebral fractures (RR 0.80, 0.72 to 0.90)For adverse events, no statistically significant differences were found in any of the included studies. However, observational data has led to concerns regarding the potential risk for upper gastrointestinal injury and, less commonly, osteonecrosis of the jaw.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At 5 mg/day a statistically significant and clinically important benefit in the secondary prevention of vertebral, non-vertebral and hip fractures was observed, but not for wrist. The level of evidence for secondary prevention is Gold (www.cochranemsk.org) for vertebral and non-vertebral and Silver for hip and wrist. There were no statistically significant reductions in the primary prevention of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures. The level of evidence is Silver.

Alendronate for the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is an abnormal reduction in bone mass and bone deterioration leading to increased fracture risk. Alendronate belongs to the bisphosphonate class of drugs, which act to inhibit bone resorption by interfering with the activity of osteoclasts.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of alendronate in the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant randomized controlled trials published between 1966 to 2007.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Women receiving at least one year of alendronate, for postmenopausal osteoporosis, were compared to those receiving placebo and/or concurrent calcium/vitamin D. The outcome was fracture incidence.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We undertook study selection and data abstraction in duplicate. We performed meta-analysis of fracture outcomes using relative risks and a > 15% relative change was considered clinically important. We assessed study quality through reporting of allocation concealment, blinding and withdrawals.

MAIN RESULTS

Eleven trials representing 12,068 women were included in the review. Relative (RRR) and absolute (ARR) risk reductions for the 10 mg dose were as follows. For vertebral fractures, a significant 45% RRR was found (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.67). This was significant for both primary prevention, with 45% RRR (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.80) and 2% ARR, and secondary prevention with 45% RRR (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.69) and 6% ARR. For non-vertebral fractures, a significant 16% RRR was found (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.94). This was significant for secondary prevention, with 23% RRR (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.92) and 2% ARR, but not for primary prevention (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.04). There was a significant 40% RRR in hip fractures (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.92), but only secondary prevention was significant with 53% RRR (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.85) and 1% ARR. The only significance found for wrist was in secondary prevention, with a 50% RRR (RR 0.50 95% CI 0.34 to 0.73) and 2% ARR. For adverse events, we found no statistically significant differences in any included study. However, observational data raise concerns regarding potential risk for upper gastrointestinal injury and, less commonly, osteonecrosis of the jaw.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At 10 mg per day, both clinically important and statistically significant reductions in vertebral, non-vertebral, hip and wrist fractures were observed for secondary prevention ('gold' level evidence, www.cochranemsk.org). We found no statistically significant results for primary prevention, with the exception of vertebral fractures, for which the reduction was clinically important ('gold' level evidence).

Alendronate for the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is an abnormal reduction in bone mass and bone deterioration leading to increased fracture risk. Alendronate belongs to the bisphosphonate class of drugs, which act to inhibit bone resorption by interfering with the activity of osteoclasts.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of alendronate in the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant randomized controlled trials published between 1966 to 2007.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Women receiving at least one year of alendronate, for postmenopausal osteoporosis, were compared to those receiving placebo and/or concurrent calcium/vitamin D. The outcome was fracture incidence.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We undertook study selection and data abstraction in duplicate. We performed meta-analysis of fracture outcomes using relative risks and a > 15% relative change was considered clinically important. We assessed study quality through reporting of allocation concealment, blinding and withdrawals.

MAIN RESULTS

Eleven trials representing 12,068 women were included in the review. Relative (RRR) and absolute (ARR) risk reductions for the 10 mg dose were as follows. For vertebral fractures, a significant 45% RRR was found (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.67). This was significant for both primary prevention, with 45% RRR (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.80) and 2% ARR, and secondary prevention with 45% RRR (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.69) and 6% ARR. For non-vertebral fractures, a significant 16% RRR was found (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.94). This was significant for secondary prevention, with 23% RRR (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.92) and 2% ARR, but not for primary prevention (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.04). There was a significant 40% RRR in hip fractures (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.92), but only secondary prevention was significant with 53% RRR (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.85) and 1% ARR. The only significance found for wrist was in secondary prevention, with a 50% RRR (RR 0.50 95% CI 0.34 to 0.73) and 2% ARR. For adverse events, we found no statistically significant differences in any included study. However, observational data raise concerns regarding potential risk for upper gastrointestinal injury and, less commonly, osteonecrosis of the jaw.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At 10 mg per day, both clinically important and statistically significant reductions in vertebral, non-vertebral, hip and wrist fractures were observed for secondary prevention ('gold' level evidence, www.cochranemsk.org). We found no statistically significant results for primary prevention, with the exception of vertebral fractures, for which the reduction was clinically important ('gold' level evidence).

Etidronate for the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is an abnormal reduction in bone mass and bone deterioration leading to increased fracture risk. Etidronate belongs to the bisphosphonate class of drugs which act to inhibit bone resorption by interfering with the activity of osteoclasts.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of etidronate in the primary and secondary prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant randomized controlled trials published between 1966 to 2007.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Women receiving at least one year of etidronate for postmenopausal osteoporosis were compared to those receiving placebo and/or concurrent calcium/vitamin D. The outcome was fracture incidence.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Study selection and data abstraction was done in duplicate. Meta-analysis of fracture outcomes was performed with data presented as relative risks and a relative change greater than 15% was considered clinically important. Study quality was assessed through the reporting of allocation concealment, blinding and withdrawals.

MAIN RESULTS

Eleven studies representing a total of 1248 patients were included in the review.A significant 41% relative risk reduction (RRR) in vertebral fractures across eight studies (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.96) was found. The six secondary prevention trials demonstrated a significant RRR of 47% in vertebral fractures (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.87) and a 5% absolute risk reduction (ARR); compared with the pooled result for the two primary prevention trials (RR 3.03, 95% CI 0.32 to 28.44), which was not significant. There were no statistically significant risk reductions for non-vertebral (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.42), hip (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.37 to 3.88) or wrist fractures (RR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.32 to 2.36). For adverse events, no statistically significant differences were found in the included studies. However, observational data has led to concerns regarding potential risk for upper gastrointestinal injury.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Etidronate, at 400 mg per day, demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically important benefit in the secondary prevention of vertebral fractures. No statistically significant reductions in vertebral fractures were observed when it was used for primary prevention. In addition, no statistically significant reductions in non-vertebral, hip, or wrist fractures were found, regardless of whether etidronate was used for primary or secondary prevention. The level of evidence for all outcomes is Silver (www.cochranemsk.org.).

Reduction of apoptosis in the amygdala by an A2A adenosine receptor agonist following myocardial infarction

It has been observed that a cytokine synthesis inhibitor, pentoxifylline, prevents the apoptotic processes taking place in the amygdala following myocardial infarction. However, it is unknown if the cardioprotective effect of A(2A) adenosine receptor agonist, CGS21680, which reduces cytokine synthesis, would lead to such amygdala apoptosis regression. Thus, this study was designed to investigate whether cardioprotective A(2A) adenosine receptor activation reduces apoptosis in the amygdala following myocardial infarction. Anesthetized rats were subjected to left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion for 40 min, followed by 72 h of reperfusion. The A(2A) agonist CGS21680 (0.2 mug/kg/min i.v.) was administered continuously for 120 min, starting (1) five minutes prior to instituting reperfusion (Early) or (2) five minutes after the beginning of reperfusion (Late). After reperfusion, myocardial infarct size was determined and the amygdala was dissected from the brain. Infarct size was reduced significantly in the Early compared to the Control group (34.6 +/- 1.8% and 52.3 +/- 2.8% respectively; p < 0.05), with no difference compared to the Late group (40.1 +/- 6.1%). Apoptosis regression was documented in the amygdala of the Early group by an enhanced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt pathway activation and Bcl-2 expression concurrently to a caspase-3 activation limitation and reduction in TUNEL-positive cells staining. On the other hand, amygdala TUNEL-positive cell numbers were not reduced in the Late group. Moreover, TNFalpha was significantly reduced in the amygdala of the Early group compared to the Control and Late groups. These results indicate that A(2A) adenosine receptor stimulation is associated with apoptosis regression in the amygdala following myocardial infarction.

Ximelagatran in prevention of cardiovascular events

Ximelagatran (Exanta (R) is the first oral anticoagulant in a new class of drugs called direct thrombin inhibitors. Two studies suggest that ximelagatran is at least as effective as warfarin in preventing stroke in high risk patients with atrial fibrillation. Ximelagatran may also reduce the rate of major cardiovascular events after a myocardial infarction, compared to placebo. Ximelagatran does not require dose adjustments or routine blood monitoring. As with warfarin, bleeding risks increase with higher doses of ximelagatran. There is, however, no specific antidote to help manage bleeding. The safety of ximelagatran will not be fully known without further evaluation and surveillance for potential liver toxicity and drug interactions.

Immunohistochemical detection of uroplakin III, cytokeratin 7, and cytokeratin 20 in canine urothelial tumors

Immunohistochemistry for uroplakin III (UP III), cytokeratin 7 (CK 7), and cytokeratin 20 (CK 20) using commercially available antibodies was done in normal canine urinary bladder and 72 canine urinary bladder tumors that had been fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. Prolonged fixation (3-28 days) did not significantly alter the immunostaining for UP III. There was moderate reduction in the intensity for CK 7 and CK 20 after 1 week of fixation. UP III was detected in superficial (umbrella) cells and some intermediate cells of the normal urinary bladder, 7 of 7 transitional cell papillomas (TCPs), 50 of 55 transitional cell carcinomas (TCCs), and 4 of 5 metastatic TCCs. Staining was typically outlined in the plasma membrane, but diffuse or focal cytoplasmic staining was also observed. Intracytoplasmic lumina were usually positive for UP III. One squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder, 4 nonepithelial bladder tumors, and 285 nonurothelial tumors from different nonurinary locations were negative for UP III. CK 7 was detected in 7 of 7 TCPs, 53 of 54 TCCs, and 5 of 5 metastatic TCCs. The staining for CK 7 was diffuse cytoplasmic. CK 20 was detected in 1 of 7 TCPs, 37 of 54 TCCs, and 1 of 5 metastatic TCCs. The staining with CK 20 was cytoplasmic and weaker than with antibodies to UP III or CK 7. There was concurrent expression of UP III, CK 7, and CK 20 in 36 of 54 TCCs. UP III is a specific and sensitive marker for canine transitional epithelial (urothelial) neoplasms, detecting 91% of TCCs. Negative results may be observed with anaplastic tumors.

[Paul F. Girard, neurologist and historian of medicine]

The authors pay tribute to their master, Pr Paul Girard, former President of the "French Society of Neurology", Head of the Neurology Department at the Antiquaille Hospital and later at the Lyons Neurological Hospital. He was the instigator of important research on cervical and lumbar discopathy, infantile encephalopathy and Gayet-Wernicke encephalopath;y now called Gayet-Wernicke-Girard disease. In psychiatry, his particular interests were cerebral diminance and the corpus callosum. He was also a great historian of medicine and published works on the history of Neurology and Psychiatry in Lyons and also on the "Mal des ardents" (burning or fiery disease).

Health-related quality of life after short segment instrumentation of lumbar burst fractures

Management of lumbar burst fractures remains controversial. Surgical reduction/stabilization is becoming more popular; however, the functional impact of operative intervention is not clear. The purpose of this study was to assess health-related quality of life and functional outcome after posterior fixation of lumbar burst fractures with either posterolateral or intrabody bone grafting. Twenty-four subjects were included. Radiographs and computed tomography scans were evaluated for deformity (kyphosis, vertebral compression, lateral angulation, lateral body height, and canal compromise) postoperatively, at 1 year, and at final follow-up (mean 3.2 years). Patients completed the SF 36 Health Survey and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire at final follow-up. Significant improvement was noted in midsagittal diameter compromise, vertebral compression, and kyphosis. The difference observed between the respondents mean scores on the SF 36 was not significantly different from those presented as the U.S. national average (p = 0.053). Data from the Oswestry questionnaire indicated a similarly high level of function. Overall, we found posterior spinal instrumentation to correlate with positive functional outcome based on both general health (SF 36) and joint-specific outcome scales (Oswestry). Posterior instrumentation provides sound canal decompression, kyphotic reduction, and maintains vertebral height with minimal transgression and long-term sequelae. In cases of severe initial deformity and neurologic compromise, intrabody bone grafting is most certainly indicated; the additional support provided by a posterolateral graft may also prove beneficial as an adjunct.

Tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

(1) Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic dermatological condition characterized by pruritus (itchiness) and rash. Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of pharmacotherapy. (2) Tacrolimus ointment is a new topical anti-inflammatory agent available in Canada through the Special Access Program. (3) It is approved as a second line agent for short or long term intermittent treatment of moderate to severe AD. (4) Clinical trials suggest it is both effective and safe, but comparative studies with corticosteroids and long-term information are limited.

Involvement of hypogastric and pelvic nerves for conveying cystitis induced nociception in conscious rats

PURPOSE

We determined the sites of the antinociceptive action of morphine in the experimental model of cyclophosphamide induced cystitis and investigated the afferent nerve fibers involved in nociception transmission originating from the bladder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cyclophosphamide (200 mg./kg.) given intraperitoneally was used to induce cystitis in male rats and their behavior was observed and scored. The effect of 2 mg./kg. systemic morphine given intravenously on cyclophosphamide induced behavioral modifications was tested when administered alone and after 100 microg. naloxone per rat given intrathecally at the L1 to L2 or L6 to S1 level. The spinal antinociceptive effect of morphine was also tested when administered intrathecally alone at 10, 100 and 200 microg. per rat at L1 to L2, alone at 100 microg. per rat at L1 to L2 or L6 to S1, alone at 100 microg. per rat at L1 to L2 and L6 to S1 simultaneously, alone at 200 microg. per rat at L1 to L2 and after 100 microg. naloxone per rat given intrathecally at L6 to S1 at 100 microg. per rat at L1 to L2.

RESULTS

Cyclophosphamide induced marked modifications in the behavior of the rats, including a decreased breathing rate, eye closing and specific postures. Morphine given intravenously reversed these behavioral disorders and this reversal was completely prevented by pretreatment with intrathecal naloxone. A dose of 100 microg. per rat given intrathecally also reversed these behavioral disorders by about 25% at the L1 to L2 and L6 to S1 levels. In addition, a dose of 100 microg. morphine per rat administered intrathecally and simultaneously at L1 to L2 and L6 to S1 produced an effect equal to the sum of those observed when administered separately, that is about 50%, whereas morphine at an intrathecal dose of 200 microg. at L1 to L2 produced the same effect as 100 microg. given intrathecally at the same level or at L6 to S1 (25%). Also, 100 microg. naloxone per rat administered intrathecally at L6 to S1 prevented the effect of 100 microg. morphine at L1 to L2.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the previously reported antinociceptive effect of systemic morphine in this model of cyclophosphamide cystitis, suggest that this antinociceptive action is completely located at the spinal site and most importantly demonstrate by the pharmacological approach and behavioral analysis that nociceptive sensations originating from the bladder are conveyed by hypogastric and pelvic nerves in this cyclophosphamide cystitis model in the conscious rat.

Enhancement of the effects of a complete inhibitor of enkephalin-catabolizing enzymes, RB 101, by a cholecystokinin-B receptor antagonist in diabetic rats

1. RB 101, a complete inhibitor of enkephalin-catabolizing enzymes, has been previously shown to produce antinociception in normal rats after systemic administration. Moreover, its coadministration with a cholecystokinin-B (CCK-B) receptor antagonist has been shown to strongly enhance its antinociceptive effect in normal rats. In this work, we determined whether RB 101 was able to reduce hyperalgesia and allodynia in diabetic rats, a model of neuropathic pain. The type of opioid receptors (mu or delta) involved was determined using naloxone and naltrindole, respectively, and the interactions between endogenous enkephalins and CCK on nociception control was investigated using coadministration of RB 101 and the CCK-B receptor antagonist CI-988. 2. RB 101 suppressed mechanical hyperalgesia (paw pressure-induced vocalization test), partially alleviated mechanical allodynia (von Frey hair test), and was ineffective in thermal allodynia (tail immersion test). The analgesic effect was completely cancelled by naloxone or naltrindole, suggesting that is requires the availability of mu- and/or delta-opioid receptors. 3. The combination of an inactive dose of CI-988 with the lowest effective dose of RB 101 resulted in a stronger increase in the vocalization threshold comparatively to RB 101 alone. 4. The present study demonstrates that the antinociception generated by RB 101 induced by elevation of extracellular levels of endogenous enkephalins, can be extended to neuropathic pain in diabetic rats and that blockade of CCK-B receptors potentiated antinociceptive effects elicited by RB 101.

Evidence for an involvement of tachykinins in allodynia in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

A better knowledge of the pathophysiology of chronic pain could help to improve the treatment of patients with such syndrome. The aim of the present work was to elucidate the possible involvement of spinal substance P and neurokinin A in the mechanical and thermal allodynia observed in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. A tachykinin NK(1) receptor antagonist, RP-67,580 ((3aR,7aR) -7, 7-diphenyl-2-(1-imino-2(2-methoxy phenyl)-ethyl) perhydroisoindol-4-one hydrochloride), a tachykinin NK(2) receptor antagonist, SR-48,968 ((S)-N-methyl (4-(acetylamino-4phenylpiperidino)-2-(3, 4-dichlorophenyl) butyl) benzamide) and their respective enantiomers were intrathecally administered 4 weeks after the induction of diabetes. Mechanical and thermal allodynia were evaluated before and up to 60 min after injection. The tachykinin receptor antagonists at the highest doses (10 and 25 microgram) significantly reduced allodynia, their enantiomers being inactive. Both of these data suggest the involvement of substance P and neurokinin A in the neuropathy-induced allodynia and offer a novel hypothesis to treat chronic pain due to diabetes.

Bioinversion of ibuprofen enantiomers after administration in dogs: estimation of a novel index

This study compares the pharmacokinetics and bioinversion of two chemical forms of ibuprofen administered intravenously or orally. Dogs were given the free acid form of the S(+) isomer p.o. or i.v., or the racemate, as the free acid or sodium salt, p.o., in a cross-over design. The main kinetic parameters were calculated and formation and bioinversion curves plotted. The values of Cmax, Tmax and AUC were higher for the S(+) isomer. The percentage bioinversion averaged between 35-70% according to the form. This study proposes a new index for the calculation of bioinversion, independently of any i.v. administration, and confirms its self-limiting nature.

Cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis in freely-moving conscious rats: behavioral approach to a new model of visceral pain

PURPOSE

To develop a model of visceral pain in rats using a behavioral approach. Cyclophosphamide (CP), an antitumoral agent known to produce toxic effects on the bladder wall through its main toxic metabolite acrolein, was used to induce cystitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CP was administered at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg./kg. i.p. to male rats, and their behavior observed and scored. The effects of morphine (0.5 to 4 mg./kg. i.v.) on CP-induced behavioral modifications were tested administered alone and after naloxone (1 mg./kg. s.c.). In addition, 90 minutes after CP injection, that is, at the time of administration of morphine, the bladder was removed in some rats for histological examination. Finally, to show that the bladder is essential for the CP-induced behavioral modifications, female rats also received CP at doses of 200 mg./kg. i.p. and of 20 mg. by the intravesical route, and acrolein at doses of 0.5 mg. by the intravesical route and of 5 mg./kg. i.v.

RESULTS

CP dose-relatedly induced marked behavioral modifications in male rats: breathing rate decrease, closing of the eyes and occurrence of specific postures. Morphine dose-dependently reversed these behavioral disorders. A dose of 0.5 mg./kg. produced a reduction of almost 50% of the behavioral score induced by CP 200 mg./kg. This effect was completely prevented by pretreatment with naloxone. At the time of administration of morphine, histological modifications of the bladder wall, such as chorionic and muscle layer edema, were observed. In female rats, CP 200 mg./kg. i.p. produced the same marked behavioral modifications as those observed in male rats. Administered at the dose of 20 mg. intravesically, CP did not produce any behavioral effects, whereas acrolein at 0.5 mg. intravesically induced behavioral modifications identical to those under CP 200 mg./kg. i.p., with the same maximal levels. Conversely, acrolein 5 mg./kg. i.v. did not produce any behavioral effects at all.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these results indicate that this experimental model of CP-induced cystitis may be an interesting new behavioral model of inflammatory visceral pain, allowing a better understanding of these painful syndromes and thus a better therapeutic approach to them.

Tau-mediated process outgrowth is differentially altered by the expression of MAP2b and MAP2c in Sf9 cells

It is well documented that the MAPs, MAP2 and tau, play pivotal roles in neurite outgrowth. Several isoforms of MAP2 and tau are coexpressed in neurons, suggesting that the pattern of neurite outgrowth results from a functional equilibrium among these isoforms. In the present study, by coexpressing two of these MAPs at the same time in Sf9 cells, we demonstrated that tau-mediated process outgrowth is affected differently by MAP2b and MAP2c. MAP2b impairs tau ability to induce process outgrowth. Tau affects MAP2c capacity to induce the formation of multiple processes. There is evidence that actin microfilaments (F-actin) are involved in the elaboration of tau-mediated process outgrowth in Sf9 cells. We compared the effects of MAP2b and MAP2c with the effects of tau on F-actin distribution and stability in Sf9 cells. In MAP2b- and MAP2c-expressing cells with processes, F-actin was redistributed. However, in MAP2b-expressing cells without processes, the distribution of F-actin appears to be similar to the one in wild-type infected cells. Collectively, these results indicate that MAP2b could impair the ability of MAP2c and tau to redistribute F-actin in Sf9 cells, thereby decreasing their capacity to induce process formation. Furthermore, MAP2b and MAP2c patterns of process outgrowth were differentially modified by depolymerization of F-actin by cytochalasin D (CD). As previously reported for tau-expressing cells, the MAP2b-expressing cells developed a higher number of processes per cell and a higher number of cells presented processes in the presence of CD. However, the number of cells with multiple processes was lower in MAP2b-expressing cells than in tau-expressing cells treated with CD at 24 h postinfection. This suggests that MAP2b exerts an effect on F-actin stability at an earlier stage of infection than tau. MAP2c had also some stabilizing effects on F-actin at an early stage of infection, since the percentage of cells presenting one process was similar to the nontreated cells. Therefore, MAP2b seems to have less capacity than MAP2c to redistribute F-actin but, nonetheless, both of these MAP2 isoforms exert a stabilizing effect on F-actin at an early stage of infection. Finally, by modifying phosphorylation we showed that MAP2c capacity to induce multiple processes is related to protein phosphorylation in Sf9 cells. Therefore, the differential effect of MAP2c and MAP2b on process outgrowth seems also to depend on protein phosphorylation.

Potentiation of morphine and clomipramine analgesia by cholecystokinin -B antagonist CI-988 in diabetic rats

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an intrathecally injected cholecystokinin-B (CCK-B) receptor antagonist, CI-988, on the analgesic effect of morphine and clomipramine in diabetic rats. Administered alone, morphine (0.1 mg/kg, i.v.) and clomipramine (3 mg/kg, i.v.) have respectively no effect and only a slight effect on vocalization thresholds to paw pressure in diabetic rats, but, when coadministered with CI-988 (0.1 microg/rat, i.t.), an appreciable antinociceptive effect was observed. This suggests that a spinal blockade of cholecystokininergic system increases the analgesia induced by morphine or clomipramine. A CCK-B receptor antagonist could thus be used to lower dosages of morphine or antidepressant drugs in the management of neuropathic pain in humans, and thereby reduce their side effects.

Double-blind, randomized, controlled trial of atosiban and ritodrine in the treatment of preterm labor: a multicenter effectiveness and safety study

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and safety of intravenous administration of atosiban versus ritodrine for the treatment of preterm labor.

STUDY DESIGN

Women with preterm labor and intact membranes diagnosed at 23 to 33 gestational weeks (n = 247) were randomly assigned to treatment arms and received atosiban (6.75 mg intravenous bolus, 300 microg/min for 3 hours, then 100 microg/min intravenously) or ritodrine (0.10-0.35 mg/min intravenously) for as long as 18 hours. Tocolytic effectiveness was assessed in terms of the numbers of women who had not been delivered after 48 hours and after 7 days. Safety was assessed in terms of maternal side effects and neonatal morbidity. Secondary outcomes included mean gestational age at delivery and mean birth weight. An intent-to-treat analysis was performed with the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test.

RESULTS

The proportion of women who had not been delivered at 48 hours was 84.9% (n = 107) in the atosiban group and 86.8% (n = 105) in the ritodrine group. At 7 days 92 women had still not been delivered in both the atosiban (73.0%) and ritodrine (76.0%) groups. Neither of these differences was statistically significant. The incidence of maternal cardiovascular side effects was substantially lower in the atosiban group (4.0% vs 84.3%, P <.001). In addition, intravenous therapy was terminated more frequently as a result of maternal adverse events in the ritodrine group (29.8%) than in the atosiban group (0.8%). The overall occurrences of fetal adverse events in the two treatment groups were comparable. Neonatal morbidity was similar between the treatment groups after adjustment for unbalanced enrollment of women with multiple pregnancies and for gestational ages within treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

Atosiban was comparable in clinical effectiveness to conventional ritodrine therapy but was better tolerated than ritodrine, with no evidence of significant maternal or fetal adverse events. Neonatal morbidity, which was similar between the two treatment arms, was apparently related to the gestational age of the infant rather than to the exposure to either tocolytic agent.

Polytetrafluoroethylene gas intoxication in broiler chickens

A poultry research facility that housed 2400 Peterson x Hubbard cross broilers (48 pens of 50 chicks each) experienced 4% mortality within 24 hr of chick placement. Mortality started within 4 hr of placement, and within 72 hr, cumulative mortality had reached 52%. Mild dyspnea was the only clinical sign noted in some chicks prior to death. The primary gross lesion noted in the chicks submitted was moderate to severe pulmonary congestion. The lungs of four of these chicks sank in formalin, and blood-tinged fluid was noted in the mouth and nares of two chicks. The microscopic lesions noted in the affected chicks were moderate to severe pulmonary edema and congestion. The diagnosis indicated to the submitter was that pulmonary edema caused by exposure to an unidentified noxious gas caused the death of the chicks. The poultry house environment was tested for sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (as produced by combustion engines); all tests were negative for significant levels of these compounds. A second broiler flock was placed in the same facility and the mortality at 6 wk was 11%, which was greater than the 2.5%-4.7% mortality seen in the previous four flocks on the farm. Further investigation revealed that the only change in management practice in this facility prior to the onset of the severe mortality problem was the replacement of 48 heat lamp bulbs (one for each pen). The new heat lamp bulbs were polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coated. PTFE gas intoxication has been reported in several exotic avian species, but this intoxication has not been previously reported in a poultry flock.

Reduction of caveolin 1 gene expression in lung carcinoma cell lines

Caveolae are plasma membrane microdomains that have been implicated in organizing and concentrating certain signaling molecules. Caveolins, constitute the main structural proteins of caveolae. Caveolae are abundant in terminally differentiated cell types. However, caveolin-1 is down-regulated in transformed cells and may have a potential tumor suppressor activity. In the lung, caveolae are present in the endothelium, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts as well as in type I pneumocytes. The presence of caveolae and caveolin expression in the bronchial epithelium, although probable, has not been investigated in human. We were interested to see if the bronchial epithelia express caveolins and if this expression was modified in cancer cells. We thus tested for caveolin-1 and -2 expression several bronchial epithelial primary cell lines as well as eight lung cancer cell lines and one larynx tumor cell line. Both caveolin-1 and -2 are expressed in all normal bronchial cell lines. With the exception of Calu-1 cell line, all cancer cell lines showed very low or no expression of caveolin-1 while caveolin-2 expression was similar to the one observed in normal bronchial epithelial cells.

Effects of quinidine, verapamil, nifedipine and ouabain on hysteresis in atrial refractoriness in the conscious dog: an approach to ionic mechanisms

1. This work determines the effects of quinidine, verapamil, nifedipine and ouabain on the hysteresis of the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) in the conscious dog. 2. AERP was always longer in the increasing phase than in the decreasing phase of the extrastimulus method, thus demonstrating the existence of AERP hysteresis. Calculated as the difference between the two values, hysteresis was between 8+/-0.8 and 11+/-1.0 msec. 3. Quinidine increased hysteresis from 9+/-0.7 to 13+/-0.7 msec, whereas verapamil decreased it from 10+/-0.9 to 5+/-0.5 msec and nifedipine did not affect it. Ouabain also lengthened hysteresis from 8+/-0.8 to 11+/-1.2 msec. 4. Thus, these results confirm the existence of a hysteresis phenomenon in the AERP in the conscious dog and are evidence that the fast sodium and slow calcium specific membrane currents participate in this phenomenon.