bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Once-Daily 0.1% Mometasone Furoate Cream versus Twice-Daily 0.1% Betamethasone Valerate Cream in the Treatment of a Variety of Dermatoses
Authors: Viglioglia P. , Jones M.L. , Peets E.A.
Published: January 2017

A randomized, investigator-blind, parallel-group trial was conducted to compare the safety and efficacy of 0.1% mometasone furoate cream applied once daily with that of 0.1% betamethasone valerate cream applied twice daily in patients ( n = 69) with allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and other steroid-responsive dermatoses. After 3 days' treatment improvement in conditions averaged 38.2 % and 39.3%, respectively, in the mometasone and betamethasone treatment groups, and after 21 days average improvements were 93.6% and 96.5%, respectively. The physicians' global evaluation of overall change in disease status and the patients' evaluation of treatment also indicated that the two treatment regimens produced comparable, rapid and progressive improvements in the patients' conditions, and no local side-effects were reported. It is concluded that mometasone furoate was as effective as betamethasone valerate in the treatment of a variety of steroid-responsive dermatoses, although mometasone furoate was applied only half as frequently.
Treatment of Chronic Liver Disease with Ursodeoxycholic Acid
Authors: Guslandi M.
Published: January 2017

Evidence is accumulating that ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), an agent widely employed for gallstone dissolution, exerts therapeutic effects in chronic liver disease. UDCA is thought to act mainly by reducing the detergent properties of bile, making it less toxic for the liver cells. Confirming the results of preliminary observations double-blind, placebo-controlled trials have shown that UDCA significantly decreased serum concentrations of liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase in primary biliary cirrhosis and other cholestatic conditions, as well as in chronic active hepatitis. A substantial improvement in liver histology has also been detected in UDCA-treated patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. The effect of UDCA in chronic hepatitis is currently a matter of investigation.
Diffuse Calcification in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kunieda K. , Okuhira M. , Nakano T. , Nakatani S. , Tateiwa J. , Hiramatsu A. , Mizuno T. , Shiozaki Y. , Sameshima Y.
Published: January 2017

The progressive expansion of calcification into the wall of the stomach and peritoneal metastatic foci was observed in a 31-year-old female with Borrmann type 4 calcified advanced gastric cancer. Despite treatment with systemic lentinan, uracil tegaful and mitomycin C, together with intraperitoneal injections of mitomycin C, OK-432 and prednisolone, the patient died 27 months after first presentation. The case provided a useful means of studying the mechanism of calcification.
Effect of Oral Administration of Bacterial Extracts on the Bactericidal Capacity of Polymorphonuclear Leucocytes in Children with Recurrent Respiratory Infections
Authors: Kantar A. , Oggiano N. , Romagnoni G.G. , Giprgi P.L.
Published: January 2017

The effect of orally administered bacterial extracts given intermittently over 16 weeks on the bactericidal capacity of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) in children with recurrent respiratory infections was investigated using a luminol-amplified chemiluminescence assay. Chemiluminescence of PMNs stimulated with zymosan or N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) before and after treatment with bacterial extracts or intramuscular benzanthine penicillin was evaluated. Chemiluminescence induced by opsonized zymosan increased significantly ( P < 0.05) after treatment with bacterial extracts, whereas no significant changes were observed in the fMLP-stimulated PMNs. Long-acting penicillin treatment did not significantly affect zymosan-or fMLP-stimulated chemiluminescence. The data suggest that orally administered bacterial extracts can increase the opsonic capacity of serum and thus the bactericidal capacity of PMNs in subjects with recurrent respiratory infections.
Comparative Effect of Dimethindene Maleate and Chlorpheniramine Maleate on Histamine-Induced Weal and Flare
Authors: Bhatt A.D. , Vaidya A.B. , Sane S.P. , Sahani S. , Koya R. , Rajaseharan A. , Perumal S.V. , Chauhan C.K. , Pathak K.J. , Sainath B.R. , Vijayasekaran V. , Dhar H.L.
Published: January 2017

Antihistaminic activity of 3 or 6 mg dimethindene maleate was compared with that of placebo and 12 mg chlorpheniramine maleate in 60 healthy volunteers in a randomized, crossover study. Activity of each drug was assessed by measuring 2 μg histamine-induced weal and flare areas. Compared with placebo, both doses of dimethindene and chlorpheniramine significantly ( P < 0.001) reduced weal area. Both doses of dimethindene ( P < 0.001) and chlorpheniramine ( P < 0.05) also significantly reduced flare area. Dimethindene (6 mg) brought about the maximum reduction in weal area (28.8%) and flare area (39.1%). Dimethindene (6 mg) also reduced weal area significantly ( P < 0.01) compared with chlorpheniramine and reduced flare area significantly ( P < 0.05) compared with 3 mg dimethindene. Using a 100 mm visual analogue scale for assessment of weal and flare intensities, 6 mg dimethindene again produced the maximum response. The study confirmed that the antihistamine activity of dimethindene was better than that of chlorpheniramine.
A Long-Term Follow-Up of Five Patients with Hepatitis Delta Virus in Japan
Authors: Koda T. , Tamura I. , Ichimura H. , Murakami S. , Takezaki E. , Kurimura O. , Kurahori T.
Published: January 2017

From 1973 to 1989 five patients with hepatitis delta virus having anti-hepatitis delta antibodies continuously in the serum for more than 5 years were identified among 1019 hepatitis B virus carriers who were being followed-up for more than 3 years (mean 8.9 years). Of the five patients with antibodies, three had a history of blood transfusion, in two cases the transfusion was massive, and one patient had been addicted to narcotics given intravenously 35 years before. In the remaining patient, the route of superinfection could not be determined. Hepatitis delta antigen was detected in hepatocyte nuclei of one of the three patients in whom liver biopsies were performed and there was chronic persistent hepatitis detected by an indirect immunoperoxidase technique. During the follow-up, hepatocellular carcinoma developed in one case but the clinical prognosis was favourable in the remaining four cases.
Decreased Creatinine Clearance Which May Be Observed during Prostaglandin E1 Therapy: Is it Reversible with Discontinuation of Therapy?
Authors: Okada S. , Miyai Y. , Sato K. , Higuchi T. , Ichiki K. , Tanokuchi S. , Ishii K. , Hamada H. , Ota Z.
Published: January 2017

A study was carried out in four patients with nephrotic diabetic nephropathy in order to determine if decreased creatinine clearance observed during prostaglandin E1 therapy was reversible on discontinuation of therapy. The patients received 40 μg prostaglandin E1 intravenously twice daily for 4 weeks and creatinine clearance and daily excretion of urinary protein were measured immediately before, during and 2 weeks after therapy. Total serum protein and serum albumin were also determined. There was a significant decrease in creatinine clearance during therapy and after therapy clearance increased but not significantly. It is concluded that decreased creatinine clearance during prostaglandin E1 therapy has a partial reversibility on discontinuation of the treatment.
Effect of Prostaglandin E1 on Renal Haemodynamics in a Patient with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Okada S. , Ogino Y. , Ichiki K. , Tanokuchi S. , Ishii K. , Hamada H. , Ota Z. , Hiraki Y.
Published: January 2017

A 66-year old male with severe hyperglycaemia due to previously uncontrolled diabetes mellitus was also suffering from arteriosclerosis obliterans and diabetic nephropathy. The patient was treated with 16 IU/day insulin zinc suspension. In addition, an intravenous infusion of 80 μg/day prostaglandin E1 was given for 28 days in an attempt to improve the arteriosclerosis obliterans and diabetic nephropathy. Treatment resulted in a reduction in fasting blood glucose but no decline in urinary protein. Prostaglandin E1 treatment, however, produced an improvement in renal haemodynamics assessed by renography.
An Evaluation of the Antihistamine Activity of Acrivastine and Its Onset in Human Skin
Authors: Manna V K , Marks P , Gibson J R
Published: January 2017

In a double-blind, two-period crossover study, 24 healthy volunteers were evaluated to establish the time of onset of action of activity of acrivastine in suppressing the weal and flare response to intradermally injected histamine. Volunteers received single doses of 8 mg acrivastine and placebo according to a fully randomized, balanced treatment plan. Acrivastine significantly ( P < 0.002) reduced the flare response induced by 0.4 μg histamine challenge 15 min after oral acrivastine dosing when compared with placebo. A significant ( P < 0.001) reduction of the weal response was noted at 25 min, although trends in this direction were already present at earlier time points.

Dans d'une étude croisée à deux phase, réalisée en double aveugle et ayant porté sur 24 volontaires sains, on a tenté d'établir le moment du début de l'action de l'acrivastine dans la suppression de la réponse inflammatoire consécutive à l'injection intradermique d'histamine. Les volontaires ont reçu des doses uniques de 8 mg d'acrivastine et de placebo, selon un plan de traitement entièrement randomisé et équilibré. L'acrivastine a réduit significativement ( P < 0,002) la réponse de rubéfaction induite par 0,4 μg d'histamine 15 minutes après l'administration orale d'acrivastine, par rapport au placebo. Une réduction significative ( P < 0,001) de la réponse d'enflure a été notée à 25 minutes, bien qu'une tendance en ce sens ait déjà été observée à un stade plus précoce.
Anti-Proliferative Effect on Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells of Natural Human Tumour Necrosis Factor-β Combined with Natural Human Interferon-α or Interferon-γ
Authors: Watanabe T , Fuchimoto S , Matsubara N , Iwagaki H , Orita K
Published: January 2017

The anti-proliferative effects of natural cytokines, human tumour necrosis factor-β, natural human interferon-α and natural human interferon-γ, on three human pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC-1, MIA PaCa-2 and BxPC-3) were investigated in vitro. The anti-proliferative effect was determined using the dye uptake method and analysed for synergism by the median effect principle. Tumour necrosis factor-β, as a single agent, had little anti-proliferative effect on any of the three cell lines, whereas interferon-α and interferon-γ exhibited a strong anti-proliferative effect against two cell lines (MIA PaCa-2 and BxPC-3) and one cell line (BxPC-3), respectively. When tumour necrosis factor-β and interferon-α were administered together (ratio 1:1), a synergistic effect was observed against PANC-1 cells. The combination of tumour necrosis factor-β and interferon-γ (ratio 10:1) was synergisic against both PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 cells. A synergistic anti-proliferative effect of tumour necrosis factor-β and interferons was, therefore, observed even for cell lines that showed little biological response to each cytokine alone. The data suggest that some future improvement in the treatment of pancreatic cancer may be obtained by using combination cytokine therapy.
Multicentre Clinical Placebo-Controlled Study with Buflomedil in the Treatment of Mild Dementia of Vascular Origin
Authors: Cucinotta D , Casucci M A Aveni , Pedrazzi F , Ponari O , Capodaglio M , Valdina P , Toxiri I , Bartorelli L , Granata Q , Franzini C , Terranova R , Reggio S
Published: January 2017

A study was carried out in 73 male or female patients suffering from mild vascular dementia. The experimental protocol involved an initial run-in period (14 days) and subsequent double-blind, randomized treatment with 300 mg buflomedil or placebo given orally twice daily for 90 days. At the end of this treatment period, all patients received buflomedil for a further 90 days and, thereafter, patients received buflomedil or no further treatment for another 90 days. The efficacy of buflomedil was monitored using rating scales and neuropsychological tests. The findings of the study indicate that buflomedil improved the symptoms of vascular dementia; the most improvement was recorded in patients who had received buflomedil for the longest period. Inadequacy, cooperation, psycho-affective disorders, self-care and somatic complaints were positively influenced by buflomedil. The efficacy of buflomedil may be due to its effects on platelet aggregation and improvement in blood flow distribution to the ischaemic brain and oxygenation of brain tissue.

E' stato condotto uno studio su 73 pazienti maschi o femmine affetti da leggera demenza vascolare. Il protocollo sperimentale comportava un periodo iniziale preliminare (14 giorni) ed un successivo trattamento randomizzato in doppio cieco con somministrazione orale di 300 mg di buflomedil o di placebo due volte al giorno per 90 giorni. Al termine di tale periodo di trattamento, tutti i pazienti ricevettero buflomedil per ulteriori 90 giorni e poi, per altri 90 giorni, alcuni pazienti continuarono la terapia con buflomedil mentre altri non vennero sottoposti ad alcun trattamento. L'efficacia del buflomedil venne controllata usando scale di valutazione e test neuropsicologici. I risultati dello studio indicano che il buflomedil allevia i sintomi della demenza vascolare. I maggiori miglioramenti vennero riportati nei pazienti ai quali era stato somministrato buflomedil per il periodo più lungo. Problemi di inadeguatezza, cooperazione, psico-affettività, cura della propria persona e disturbi somatici furono tutti positivamente influenzati dal buflomedil. L'efficacia di questo farmaco potrebbe essere attribuita ai propri effetti sull'aggregazione delle piastrine, sulla migliore distribuzione del flusso ematico nel cervello ischemico e sull'ossigenazione dei tessuti cerebrali.
Effect of Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate, Oestrogens and Prostaglandins on Collagen Metabolism in Human Cervical Tissue in Relation to Cervical Ripening
Authors: Yoshida K , Tahara R , Nakayama T , Yanaihara T
Published: January 2017

To clarify the mechanism of cervical ripening at term, collagenase activity in human cervical tissue was studied. The effects of steroids and prostaglandins on collagenase activity were also examined. Collagenase activities in cervical tissues obtained from non-pregnant ( n = 5) and pregnant women (early-pregnant, n = 3; late-pregnant, n = 14) were measured, with or without the addition of steroids and prostaglandins into the incubation medium prior to the measurement of enzyme activity. The enzyme activity was significantly (P < 0.01 − 0.05) higher in the cervical tissue obtained from late-pregnant women than that from non-pregnant and early-pregnant women. Collagenase activity was significantly ( P < 0.05) elevated when steroid sulphates such as dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and oestrone sulphate were added to the incubation medium, while the addition of free steroids, prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2α did not alter the activity. These data suggest that conjugated steroid produced in the foetoplacental unit during pregnancy may be involved in cervical ripening through the enhancement of collagenase activity.
Effects of FL-386 on Faecal Lipid Excretion in Humans
Authors: Nakamura T , Takebe K , Yamada N , Arai Y , Tandoh Y , Terada A , Ishii M , Kudoh K , Kikuchi H , MacHida K , Imamura K
Published: January 2017

A newly synthesized inhibitor of pancreatic lipase and micelle formation, FL-386, was administered at a dose of 400 mg (in the diet, for seven consecutive days) to nine healthy adult volunteers, and changes in faecal mass, frequency of defaecation, and properties of the stools were observed. High performance liquid chromatography and gas-liquid chromatography were used to analyse the faeces for short-chain carboxylic acids, neutral sterols, bile acids, fats and hydroxyfatty acids. FL-386 had little effect on the amounts and composition of short-chain carboxylic acids, neutral sterols, and bile acids excreted, nor did it produce changes in the composition of fatty acids, or the percentages of hydroxyfatty acids in the stool. However, in those patients treated with FL-386, the faecal mass was increased, and stools were softer and contained increased amounts of fatty acids. The compound did not produce particularly fatty stools. It was concluded that FL-386 induces slight disturbance in the digestion and absorption of dietary lipids.
Effect of Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor in Glycogen Storage Disease Type IB
Authors: Zuccotti G V , Longhi R , Flumine P , Stangalint A , Riva E
Published: January 2017

Five children with glycogen storage disease type Ib (glycogenosis Ib), a metabolic defect associated with neutropenia and impairment of neutrophil function, were treated with granulocyte colony stimulating factor, a haemopoietic growth factor that induces a significant increase in polymorphonuclear leucocyte count in vivo. Recurrent bacterial or fungal infections were recorded in the three patients who had very low polymorphonuclear leucocyte counts. Experience at this centre indicates that the absolute number of polymorphonuclear leucocytes is more important than the alteration of their metabolic function in determining the susceptibility of the patients to infection. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor was effective at increasing polymorphonuclear leucocyte numbers (and restored function to some extent) in patients with glycogenosis Ib. This drug might be beneficial in cases of severe infection, in glycogenosis Ib patients with neutropenia.
A Comparison of Azelastine Nasal Spray and Cetirizine Tablets in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Passali D , Piragine F
Published: January 2017

A total of 40 patients with perennial allergic rhinitis were treated with either azelastine nasal spray 0.14 mg/nostril twice daily (0.56 mg/day) or cetirizine tablets 10 mg once daily. Treatment was for a period of eight weeks. The rhinitis symptoms were evaluated according to a four-point scale (0 = absent, 3 = severe). The Total Rhinitis Symptom Score (TRSS) was derived from the sum of the individual symptom scores. Symptoms were assessed at baseline prior to treatment and at weeks 2, 4 and 8. Compared to baseline, TRSS for both the azelastine and cetirizine groups were less at each assessment during treatment, a slight nonsignificant advantage was seen in the azelastine group. At the end of the study, physicians rated global efficacy as being ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ in 73.7% of azelastine patients and 55.5% of cetirizine patients. Both treatments were well tolerated and no serious adverse events were reported, however, two cetirizine patients withdrew from the study because of somnolence. In conclusion, azelastine has been shown to be at least as effective as cetirizine in the relief of the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis.

Un campione clinico di 20 + 20 pazienti con rinite allergica è stato trattato con Azelastina spray nasale alla dose di 2 puff da 0.14 mg/narice/die (0.56 mg/die) o con 1 compressa/die di Cetirizina da 10 mg. La durata del trattamento è stata di 8 settimane. I sintomi di rinite sono stati valutati in base ad una scala a 4 punti (in cui 0 = assente o scomparso, 3 = sintomo grave). Il Punteggio Totale dei Sintomi di Rinite (PTSR) è stato ottenuto addizionando i punteggi dei singoli sintomi. I sintomi sono stati rilevati prima dei trattamenti (valore basale) e successivamente ad intervalli di 2, 4 e 8 settimane. Ad ogni rilevamento nel corso del trattamento si è riscontrata una diminuzione del PTSR rispetto al valore basale, in entrambi i gruppi di trattamento. Nel gruppo Azelastina si è manifestata una maggiore diminuzione del punteggio, non statisticamente significativa. Alla conclusione dello studio i ricercatori hanno definita “eccellente” o “buona” l'efficacia nel 73.7% del casi trattati con Azelastina Spray Nasale e nel 55.5% di quelli trattati con Cetirizina. Entrambi i trattamenti sono stati ben tollerati e non si sono rilevati effetti collaterali. In conclusione, Azelastina Spray Nasale, ha dimostrato efficacia comparabile a quella di Cetirizina compresse nell'alleviare i sintomi della rinite allergica.
Chlormethiazole in the Management of the Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome
Authors: Vilchez JJ , Lago A , Burguera JA , Yaya R , Casanova V
Published: January 2017

Two instances of successful treatment of the rare ocular dyskinesia, opsoclonus, with chlormethiazole are reported. A 65-year-old woman had the opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome associated with carcinoma of the breast; her myoclonia and opsoclonus did not respond to intravenous diazepam or phenytoin. Treatment with intravenous chlormethiazole resulted in rapid control of her myoclonic attacks, followed by slower but complete resolution of the opsoclonus. Following control of the acute symptoms the patient was transferred to an oral chlormethiazole maintenance dose which was further reduced and subsequently discontinued after 5 months, when the patient's overall clinical status had improved. A 53-year-old man with opsoclonia, myoclonia, ataxia and encephalopathy, not associated with neoplasia, was given immunosuppressor drugs to establish basal control, and oral chlormethiazole for symptomatic treatment. Almost immediately after the initial dose of chlormethiazole the patient became more orientated; he was sedated and the agitation and myoclonic fits were brought under control quite quickly. The opsoclonus responded progressively and was completely resolved after a few days. The initial oral dose of chlormethiazole was gradually reduced and was discontinued after 5–6 months. Chlormethiazole was well tolerated; it may have an important role in the management of the rare opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome.
Calcium Intakes in a Sample of 35 000 Italian Schoolchildren
Authors: Bellù R , Riva E , Ortisi M T , De Notaris R , Santini I , Banderali G , Giovannini M
Published: January 2017

The calcium intakes of 35 072 Italian schoolchildren aged 7 – 10 years were investigated as part of a nation-wide survey of nutritional patterns. The Friuli, Piedmont, Latium and Sicily regions of Italy were selected as representative of the nation's north–south and east–west socio-economic divisions. A food-frequency questionnaire was used to assess the nutritional intakes of the whole sample. The validity of the food-frequency questionnaire method was assessed in a sub-sample of children by traditional methods: 24-h dietary recall and a weighted food diary. The data indicate that the mean calcium intakes of girls were below the recommended daily intake of 800 mg in all of the regions except Sicily, and that the calcium intakes of boys were above the recommended daily intake in all of the regions except Friuli. These results suggest that there may be deficiencies in the calcium intakes of this age-group in the wider population, particularly in girls. Food-frequency questionnaires are potentially valuable as part of a multi-method approach in large-scale nutritional monitoring.
Pulmonary Endothelial Cell Modifications after Storage in Solid-Organ Preservation Solutions
Authors: Carbognani P , Spaggiari L , Rusca M , Cattelani L , Solli P , Romani A , Alessandrini F , Dell'Abate P , Valente M , Bobbio P
Published: January 2017

During lung preservation, the vascular endothelium is probably the first site of damage and these lesions are considered the main limiting factor in solid-organ preservation. In the present study, the ultrastructural changes in the endothelial cells of human pulmonary artery hypothermically stored (at 4 °C) for 6 and 12 h in Euro-Collins, University of Wisconsin and Ringer-lactate solutions were compared. The arteries obtained from three patients who underwent pneumonectomy were divided into 20 segments and preserved in the three solutions mentioned. The specimens, which were fixed in osmic acid, were examined using transmission electron microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that the cells stored in the University of Wisconsin solution either for 6 or 12 h were the best preserved, while the most severely damaged cells were those stored in Euro-Collins solution, even after just 6 h. The cells stored in Ringer-lactate showed an intermediate level of damage. The data from an ultrastructural grading scale, which quantified the damage to the cytoplasm, mitochondria and nucleus, were in broad agreement with the general transmission electron microscopy observations. Analysis of variance of the grading scale data showed that there were statistically significant differences between the groups after both 6 and 12 h storage ( P < 0.05).
Epidural Morphine plus Bupivacaine for Relief of Postoperative Pain following Harrington Rod Insertion for Correction of Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Adu-Gyamfi Y
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of epidural morphine plus bupivacaine for post-operative pain control following Harrington rod insertion. In 22 scoliotic patients, studied prospectively, the epidural catheter was positioned under direct vision, intra-operatively before wound closure. Post-operatively, the patients received 2 mg morphine in 4 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine through the epidural catheter whenever they complained of pain. The pain score was assessed before and after every injection, using the Visual Analogue Pain Scale, and side-effects were monitored. All patients had adequate pain relief following analgesic administration. The mean (± SD) pre-injection pain score decreased from 2.5 ± 0.15 on the first post-operative day to 0.7 ± 0.2 by the fourth day. The side-effects, including nausea, vomiting and pruritus, were minimal. It is concluded that morphine, in 0.25% bupivacaine administered through an intra-operatively placed epidural catheter, provides a safe and effective post-operative analgesia in patients undergoing Harrington rod insertion for idiopathic scoliosis.
Enhanced Effect of Clarithromycin on Neutrophil Function In Vitro
Authors: Akamatsu H , Niwa Y , Sasaki H , Asada Y , Horio T
Published: January 2017

An in vitro study was carried out to investigate the effect of clarithromycin, a new oral macrolide, on neutrophil reactive oxygen species generation and chemotaxis. It was found that neutrophil-generated 02−, H202 and OH· levels were significantly increased by clarithromycin at concentrations of 50 μg/ml ( P < 0.05). The drug also significantly increased chemotaxis ( P < 0.05). These results indicate that clarithromycin may enhance the activation of neutrophils in vivo.
Effects of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin in Infants with Very Low Birth Weights
Authors: Samanci N , Ovali F , Da͂o͂lu T
Published: January 2017

Anaemia of prematurity, a postnatal fall in haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit, is particularly common in those born at less than 32 weeks of gestation. Experimental and clinical data implicate inadequate erythropoietin production as an important reason. In this study recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEpo) was used in an attempt to treat or prevent this anaemia and thereby provide an alternative to erythrocyte transfusions. Premature infants (birth weight ≤ 1250 g and gestational age ≤ 32 weeks), who were likely to need transfusions, were randomly assigned to receive 4 weeks of treatment with either subcutaneously administered r-HuEpo (200 U; n = 12) or placebo ( n = 12), three times weekly. All patients had oral supplements of elemental iron at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day. Treatment was started in the third week of life. Reticulocyte counts were significantly raised ( P < 0.05) in the group treated with r-HuEpo at the end of treatment. The neonates in the group treated with r-HuEpo needed fewer erythrocyte transfusions than those in the placebo group during treatment. There were no toxic effects attributable to r-HuEpo. The results indicate that treatment of infants with very low birth weights with r-HuEpo will reduce their need for erythrocyte transfusions
Significance of Increased Accumulation of Type VI Collagen and Transforming Growth Factor βi in Tubulointerstitial Damage in Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis: An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Razzaque M S , Harada T , Taguchi T
Published: January 2017

The distribution of type VI collagen and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF β1) was studied by immunohistochemistry in 12 renal biopsy specimens of hypertensive nephrosclerosis and five control cases. In control kidneys, the immunostaining of type VI collagen was found in the mesangium, glomerular basement membrane and tubular basement membrane. For TGF β, mesangium, glomerular basement membrane, tubular basement membrane and tubular epithelial cells stained positively in the control kidneys. In contrast to the control cases, markedly increased immunostaining for both type VI collagen and TGF β1 was consistently observed in tubulointerstitial damage in hypertensive nephrosclerosis. These immunohistochemical findings provide the evidence for a parallel increase of both type VI collagen and TGF β1 during the process of tubulointerstitial injury in hypertensive nephrosclerosis. From the results of the present study, it is speculated that TGF β1 may contribute to the tubulointerstitial injury by stimulating increased synthesis of various extracellular matrix including type VI collagen.
Cardiorespiratory Function as Assessed by Exercise Testing in Patients with Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Katoh J , Hara Y , Kmvsu M , Miyaji J , Nabutaki K
Published: January 2017

Exercise testing was used to examine 19 cardiorespiratory diabetes mellitus patients, aged 32 – 68 years (body mass index, 27.8 ± 4.8 kg/m2), and 16 healthy volunteers, aged 23 – 57 years (body mass index, 22.7 ± 2.5 kg/m2). A graded cycling exercise test was done, monitoring gas exchange, ventilation and heart rate. Values were significantly higher in the non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients than in the controls for fasting blood glucose ( P < 0.01), glycosylated haemoglobin ( P < 0.01), body weight ( P < 0.05) and body mass index ( P < 0.05). The exercise testing produced values that were significantly lower in the patients with NIDDM than in the controls for percentage oxygen uptake ( P < 0.05), maximum load ( P < 0.05), maximum metabolic equivalent ( P < 0.01) and maximum oxygen uptake per unit body weight ( P < 0.01). Ventilatory capacity and forced expiratory volume at 1 sec did not differ significantly in the two groups. These results suggest that general fitness is diminished due to reduced cardiorespiratory function in patients with NIDDM.
Pituitary Macroadenoma in Addison's Disease
Authors: Akçay G , Aral F , Özbey N , Azezli A , Orhan Y , Sencer E , molvalilar S
Published: January 2017

Long-standing primary failure of pituitary-dependent endocrine glands may lead to hyperplasia of the pituitary cells. These changes in the pituitary gland may be correlated with the severity and duration of target-endocrine gland insufficiency. Production of adrenocorticotrophic hormone by the pituitary tumour and modest hyperprolactinaemia may develop due to adrenocortical insufficiency, but production of prolactin by the pituitary tumour due to primary adrenal insufficiency is rare. A case study is presented, with primary adrenal insufficiency associated with hyperprolactinaemia and pituitary macroadenoma (most probably prolactinoma). Plasma levels of prolactin were found to decrease after glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid and bromocriptine therapy.
Dirithromycin versus Amoxiclav in the Treatment of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
Authors: Van Royen P , Betz W , Heyrman J , Taziaux P , Van den Haute M , Poelman M
Published: January 2017

A total of 334 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis were treated with either dirithromycin for 5 days ( n = 169) or amoxiclav for 7–10 days ( n = 165) in an open randomized trial. The efficacy and tolerability of the two drugs were compared. There was no statistically significant difference in outcome between the two treatment arms. Clinical success (cure or improvement) was obtained in 94.5% and 93.1% of patients treated with dirithromycin and amoxiclav, respectively. Adverse events (mostly gastrointestinal) occurred in both groups, but led to discontinuation of treatment (in only seven patients). We conclude that the two drugs are equally efficacious and safe.
Role of Tenascin in Human Immunoglobulin a Nephropathy
Authors: Masaki T , Yorioka N , Taniguchi Y , Ogawa T , Naito T , Nishiki T , Harada Y , Yamakido M
Published: January 2017

Tenascin is a component of the extracellular matrix that responds rapidly to inflammation or injury. The activity index and chronicity index of immunoglobulin A nephropathy are mainly used to decide whether or not steroid therapy is indicated, but are sometimes difficult to evaluate histologically. We investigated whether tenascin staining of the glomeruli was an indicator of the activity or chronicity indices in patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy. Tenascin staining was evaluated immunohistochemically in 38 renal specimens, including 32 from patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy and six from control kidneys, and the extent of staining was scored. Tenascin staining was correlated with the chronicity index ( r = 0.643, P < 0.0003) but not with the activity index.
Influence of a Mineral Water on the Rheological Characteristics of Reconstituted Infant Formulas and Diluted Cows' Milk
Authors: Rottoli A , Decarlis S , Giannì ML , Giovannini M
Published: January 2017

A bottled spring water with a low mineral content was compared with tap water in the reconstitution and/or dilution of five different infant formulas and cows' milk. The osmolality, buffering power and renal solute load potential of the formulas reconstituted with the bottled water were all significantly lower than when tap water was used ( P < 0.01). When the bottled water was used to dilute cows' milk, the morphology of milk casein precipitates (after addition of rennet) was finer and more dispersed than when tap water was used. For formula reconstitution and milk dilution, a benefit, in terms of solute/electrolyte balance, appears to be conferred on infants by the improved rheological characteristics of modified milks reconstituted or diluted with this bottled mineral water.
An Open, Multicentre, Comparative Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Azithromycin and Co-Amoxiclav in the Treatment of Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Children
Authors: Lauvau DVA , Verbist L ,   The Paediatric Azithromycin Study Group
Published: January 2017

An open prospective, multicentre, comparative, randomized (2:1) study was conducted in 481 children diagnosed as having mild-to-moderate lower respiratory tract infections. The efficacy and safety of azithromycin suspension (10 mg/kg), dosed orally once daily for 3 days, was compared with that of co-amoxiclav (10 mg/kg in a 4:1 ratio), dosed orally three times daily for 5–10 days. The proportion of evaluable patients ( n = 472) showing a cure or improvement was significantly higher in the azithromycin group (96.8%) than in the co-amoxiclav group (91%, P = 0.0199). There were six relapses in both groups, giving an overall response rate of 95% for azithromycin versus 87.1% for co-amoxiclav ( P = 0.0025). Adverse events were reported in 10% of the patients treated with azithromycin, and 11.3% of co-amoxiclav patients. Reported and counted compliance was significantly better in the azithromycin group. A 3-day regimen of azithromycin was as effective and as safe as a 5–10 day regimen of co-amoxiclav in the treatment of respiratory tract infections in children, and compliance was improved.
The Effects of a Fluoroquinolone on the Growth and Development of Infants
Authors: Gürpinar An , Balkan E , Kiliç N , Kiriştioǧlu I , Doǧruyol H
Published: January 2017

Growth and development were monitored for up to 42 months in nine neonates to whom ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone, was given in the neonatal period at a dosage of 20 mg/kg/day. Ciprofloxacin was used only as a ‘life-saving’ therapy in cases of sepsis produced by bacterial agents resistant to other antibiotics. Two other groups of nine neonates, matched by birth weight and gestational age, were studied as controls: one group with sepsis, which was effectively treated with cefotaxime and a group of healthy neonates. No statistically significant differences in growth and development between the groups were found during follow-up for 42 months. No osteoarticular problems or joint deformities were observed in the ciprofloxacin group. Ciprofloxacin appears to provide a therapeutic option as a ‘life-saving’ therapy for newborns with sepsis produced by multiply resistant organisms.
Association between Hyperhomocysteinaemia and Hypertension in Sri Lankans
Authors: Mendis S , Athauda SBP , Naser M , Takahashi K
Published: January 2017

This study examined the relationship between homocysteine and its metabolites, and hypertension in a cohort of Sri Lankan patients with essential hypertension. Serum homocysteine, cysteine, cysteinylglycine and glutathione were measured in 86 patients with a diagnosis of essential hypertension and compared with those of an age- and sex-matched control group. Patients with hypertension had significantly higher mean serum concentrations of homocysteine, cysteine and cysteinylglycine. The odds ratio for hypertension for those with a mean serum homocysteine concentration above 18 μmol/1 was 2.8. Hyperhomocysteinaemia is a risk factor for hypertension in Sri Lankans and can lead to a threefold increase in risk.
Pulmonary Granulomas Associated with PAS-Positive Bodies in Brachycephalic Dogs
Authors: Billups L. H. , Liu S. K. , Kelly D. F. , Garner F. M.
Published: January 2017

Pulmonary granulomas were incidental findings at necropsy in 18 dogs, mainly of the brachycephalic breeds. These lesions were multifocal along smaller bronchi and the subpleural tissue at the margins of lobes. The granulomatous reaction contained numerous periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive bodies that histochemically had reactions suggestive of a calcium-lipid-mucopolysaccharide complex. Although the cause is not clear, the location and distribution are suggestive of an inhalation or aspiration pneumonia. The shortened muzzle of brachycephalic breeds, particularly when there is concurrent upper respiratory disease, may predispose them to these bodies.
Simian Neonatology: I. Gestational Maturity and Extrauterine Viability
Authors: Price R. A. , Anver Miriam R. , Garcia F. G.
Published: January 2017

In a 21-month period, 225 simians were born at the New England Regional Primate Research Center. Of these, 141 (63%) survived the neonatal period, and 84 (37%) were either born dead or died during the first 30 days of life. Sixty-two of the 84 neonatal deaths occurred during the perinatal period (0–7 days of life). In four macaque species studied, groups of infants that were high and low survival risks were established by examining weight-specific death rates. Criteria for establishing immaturity by birth weight were suggested in Saguinus oedipus and Saimiri sciureus.
Myopathy with a Possible Recessive X-Linked Inheritance in a Litter of Irish Terriers
Authors: Wentink G. H. , van der Linde-Sipman J. S. , Meijer A. E. F. H. , Kamphuisen H. A. C. , van Vorstenbosch C. J. A. H. V. , Hartman W. , Hendriks H. J.
Published: January 2017

Five male Irish Terrier puppies had a stiff gait, difficulty in swallowing, dirty cheeks because of food residues, an enlarged tongue and atrophic muscles. At electromyographical examination high-frequency discharges suggestive of myotonia were present. The values for serum creatine-phosphokinase and aldolase were extremely high. Serum vitamin E values were normal. At necropsy the muscles were pale with yellowish white streaks. Histologically there was a patchy distribution of the lesions. Granular and floccular changes (Zenker's degeneration) with phagocytosis, giant cells and calcification were found. Histochemical changes were the same in all muscles investigated, but were not equally pronounced. In the muscle specimens with greatest change the distinction between type I and type II fibres was largely lost. Rounded hypertrophic fibres contained no glycogen, and most did not show activity of phosphorylase, dehydrogenases, and oxidases. Activity of glyccrol-3-phosphate oxidase and acid phosphatase was markedly increased. Abnormal mitochondria and unknown electron-dense bodies were found. The tubular system seemed to be reduced in some abnormal fibres. The disease is probably recessive X-linked.
Multiple Cartilaginous Exostoses in a Cat
Authors: Pool R. R. , Carrig C. B.
Published: January 2017

A 2-year-old neutered male cat with idiopathic hemolytic anemia had cartilaginous exostoses on the ribs, sternum, vertebrae and scapulae. The range of lesions in the cat resembled that reported in the dog. Radiographic and histologic appearances of the cartilaginous exostoses were like those reported for other species. Theories of the pathogenesis of this disease are presented. Electron microscopic examination of two widely separated cartilage-capped exostoses showed ‘C'-type viral particles resembling those of feline leukemia to be associated with the plasma membrane of chondroblastic elements.
Proliferative Optic Neuropathy in Horses
Authors: Saunders L. Z. , Bistner S. I. , Rubin L. F.
Published: January 2017

An asymptomatic, ophthalmoscopically visible proliferation affected the optic disc and nerve of two aged horses. The lesion consisted of an accumulation of foamy cells, histologically akin to fat cells, which contained an unidentified lipid-like material. The affected area and its environs were permeated by tortuous, thickened blood vessels with heavy deposits of collagen in their walls. The neuropathy is considered to be a storage disease, and although the product stored is unidentified, the lesion is similar to that of human xanthelasma. The neuropathy seems distinct from the exudative optic neuritis of horses that has been known since 1890.
Feline Intestinal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Patnaik A. K. , Liu S.-K. , Johnson G. F.
Published: January 2017

Twenty-two cases of intestinal adenocarcinoma were diagnosed in an 11-year survey of 3145 feline necropsies. Histologically, tumors were grouped into four classes: (1) carcinoma with solid groups of cells, (2) adenocarcinoma with solid and acinar cells, (3) papillary adenocarcinoma, and (4) mucinous adenocarcinoma. Tumors were commonest in the ileum. Connective tissue, as well as epithelial metaplasia, were associated more often in this group of intestinal adenocarcinomas than seen before. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of muscular layers of the unaffected sections of intestines were seen in most of the small bowel and in half of the large bowel carcinomas in this series.
Fettembolische Verschlüsse in den Blutgefässen der Vogellunge
Authors: Brunner P. , Meinl M.
Published: January 2017

In 50 flying birds (49 parrot-like, one peacock), the content of fat-embolic vascular occlusions was determined. In 22 cases, fat-embolic occlusions of low intensity were found in pulmonary capillaries. There were no occlusions in renal vessels. The fat embolies had no influence on a lethal outcome. There was no statistically significant correlation between the fatty infiltration of the liver, the fat content of the bone marrow, and the frequency of fat-embolic occlusion of blood vessels. In 18 cases, mycoses were the cause of death. These infections did not influence the number of fat-embolic vascular occlusions.
Meningoencephalomyelitis in Horses Associated with Equine Herpesvirus 1 Infection
Authors: Charltons K. M. , Mitchell D. , Girard A. , Corner A. H.
Published: January 2017

During an outbreak of abortion caused by equine herpesvirus 1, a neurologic disease characterized clinically by dullness and ataxia occurred in several mares. Equine herpesvirus 1 was isolated from brain and lung of two severely affected mares.

Histologically, both mares had disseminated meningoencephalomyelitis characterized by necrotizing arteritis, focal malacia in grey and white matter of brain and spinal cord, and accumulation of lymphocytes and neutrophils in paravertebral ganglia. Eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies occurred in foci of necrosis in thyroid adenomas of both mares.
Vascular Malformations and Hemangiomas of the Canine Spinal Cord
Authors: Cordy D. R.
Published: January 2017

An arteriovenous malformation and two hemangiomas in the canine spinal cord were found in three dogs. The malformation was ventral, extramedullary and largely subdural. Chronic hypoxia, consequent upon the shunt, had led to extensive local edema, necrosis and hemorrhage at T13-L1. Prominent intramedullary perivascular fibrosis, mineralization and obliteration were the presumed consequences of the hemodynamic insult. The hemangiomas, one of which was multiple, were deep lesions that produced compressive changes in the adjacent cord tissue. The masses were regarded as benign neoplasms with central sclerosis. These conditions appear not to have been reported previously in the dog.
Uremic Gastropathy in the Dog
Authors: Cheville N. F.
Published: January 2017

Stomachs of four dogs with uremia and four normal dogs were examined. Uremic stomachs represented four types of disease: atrophic, amyloidotic, ulcerative and necrotic gastropathy. Pathologic changes common to all uremic stomachs were expansion of the lamina propria, atrophy of gastric glands, and submucosal arteriopathy; lesions were limited to body and fundic zones. Lamina propria was markedly expanded by edema, mastocytosis, deposition of acidic mucosubstances, fibroplasia and mineralization. Capillaries in lamina propria had swollen endothelium and calcium salts were present extracellularly as amorphous granular laminae. Gastric glands were distorted and irregular and had fewer cells per unit of tissue. Parietal cells were swollen and had fragmentation of cytocavitary network and mitochondrial swelling with calcification. Chief cells were shrunken, agranular and atrophic with foci of glycogen and dilation of endoplasmic reticulum. Argentaffin cell content was diminished. Muscular arteries of submucosae had segmental degenerative lesions characterized by myocyte necrosis, calcification, and deposition of acidic mucosubstances and fibrin; thrombosis and obstructive arteriopathy were common. These studies suggest that uremic gastropathy is a disease of mucosal lamina propria and that lesions were due to anoxia caused by diffuse vascular injury and to altered parietal cell function.
Histologic and Ultrastructural Evaluation of Thyroid Lesions Associated with Hypothyroidism in Dogs
Authors: Gosselin S. J. , Capen C. C. , Martin S. L.
Published: January 2017

Thyroid lesions in 16 pet dogs with hypothyroidism were evaluated by light and electron microscopy. Lymphocytic thyroiditis, found in seven dogs, was characterized by diffuse infiltration of the thyroid gland by lymphocytes, plasma cells and macrophages with formation of some lymphoid nodules and destruction of follicles, progressing to replacement of most of the thyroid by fibrous connective tissue. The basement membrane around follicles was thick and had electron-dense deposits. The morphology of the thyroid lesions and the presence of circulating thyroglobulin autoantibodies suggested that lymphocytic thyroiditis was immune-mediated.

Idiopathic follicular atrophy, found in nine dogs, was characterized by loss of thyroid parenchyma and replacement by adipose connective tissue. Degeneration of individual follicular cells was present in the early stage, with exfoliation into the colloid and interfollicular area. Most of the thyroid gland consisted of adipose connective tissue with either interspersed small follicles or individual follicular cells that had dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, large Golgi apparatus, and intracytoplasmic microfollicles in the advanced stage. Follicular atrophy was a degenerative lesion of follicular cells of unknown cause, not associated with inflammatory destruction in the thyroid gland.