bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Placebo-Controlled Trial of Naftazone in Women with Primary Uncomplicated Symptomatic Varicose Veins
Authors: Vayssairat M. ,   The French Venous Naftazone Trial Group
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness and best time course of prescription of 30 mg/day oral naftazone (N) in women with primary uncomplicated symptomatic varicose veins (PUSVV).

Design:

Double-blind, placebo (P)-controlled study.

Setting:

Multicentre study, coordinated by a University hospital in Paris, France.

Patients:

270 women with PUSVV.

Interventions:

Treatment with naftazone (three dosage regimens) or placebo for 14 days.

Main outcome measures:

Comparison by ANOVA, at day 0 and after 14 days of treatment, of (1) clinical disability, using an analogue scale 100 mm long and (2) morning and evening leg volumes.

Results:

The reduction in disability at day 14 was 32 ± 23 mm in the N group versus 24 ± 20 in the P group, F = 6.35, p = 0.01. Best clinical efficacy was obtained in the subgroup given 30 mg N once a day at midday (35 ± 22 mm). Differences between morning leg volumes on days 0 and 14 were 19.3 ± 74 ml in the N group versus 5.5 ± 50 in the P group, p = 0.059.

Conclusion:

Naftazone was more effective than placebo for the clinical improvement of women with PUSVV.
Efficacy of celecoxib versus ibuprofen for the treatment of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized double-blind, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Gordo Ana C , Walker Chris , Armada Beatriz , Zhou Duo
Published: January 2017

Objective

To compare the efficacy and tolerability of celecoxib and ibuprofen for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

Method

In this 6-week, multicentre, double-blind, non-inferiority trial, patients were randomized to 200 mg celecoxib once daily, 800 mg ibuprofen three times daily or placebo. The primary outcome was non-inferiority of celecoxib to ibuprofen in Patient’s Assessment of Arthritis Pain (scored 0–100). Secondary outcomes included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index, Pain Satisfaction Scale, and upper gastrointestinal tolerability.

Results

A total of 388 patients were treated (celecoxib n = 153; ibuprofen n = 156; placebo n = 79). Mean difference (95% confidence interval) between celecoxib and ibuprofen in the Patient’s Assessment of Arthritis Pain was 2.76 (−3.38, 8.90). As the lower bound was greater than −10, celecoxib was non-inferior to ibuprofen. The WOMAC total score was significantly improved with celecoxib and ibuprofen, versus placebo. Patients receiving celecoxib were significantly more satisfied (versus placebo) in 10 of 11 measures on the Pain Satisfaction Scale versus three measures with ibuprofen. Upper gastrointestinal events were less frequent with celecoxib (1.3%) than ibuprofen (5.1%) or placebo (2.5%).

Conclusion

Celecoxib was well tolerated and as effective as ibuprofen for symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT00630929
Autologous stem cell transplantation as frontline strategy for peripheral T-cell lymphoma: A single-centre experience
Authors: Han Xiao , Zhang Wei , Zhou Daobin , Ruan Jing , Duan Minghui , Zhu Tienan , Li Jian , Cai Huacong , Cao Xinxin , Ouyang Mingqi
Published: January 2017

Objective

To determine the efficacy and prognosis of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) as frontline treatment for peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL).

Methods

Clinical data from 46 PTCL patients who achieved complete (CR) or partial remission (PR) after ASCT from October 1996 to July 2014 were analysed retrospectively.

Results

Median patient age was 32 (range: 15–68) years. Disease types included PTCL, unspecified type, in 23 patients, anaplastic large cell lymphoma in eight, angioimmunoblastic lymphoma in eight, extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma in five, and hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma and enteropathy associated T-cell lymphoma in one each. Of these patients, 80% had Prognostic Index for Peripheral T-cell Lymphoma scores ≥1. Thirty-four patients had pre-transplantation CR and 12 had PR. Median follow up was 37 (6–176) months. The 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 77.1% and 61.9%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that pre-transplantation CR was an independent risk factor for survival, and CR was more common than PR (OS 81% vs 59.3%; PFS 71.8% vs 17.8%).

Conclusion

Frontline consolidation treatment with ASCT was associated with favourable outcomes in patients with PTCL. Pre-transplantation CR was a prognostic factor for survival, suggesting that ASCT may be favoured as front-line consolidation therapy after first complete remission.
Effectiveness of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and serum liver enzyme measurement in detection and classification of blunt liver trauma
Authors: Zhao Da-wei , Tian Meng , Zhang Le-tian , Li Tao , Bi Jie , He Jia-ying , Zhang Ying-ying
Published: January 2017

Objective

This study was performed to identify the correlation between contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (CE-MDCT) as well as the correlation between serum liver enzyme concentrations and CE-MDCT in classification of the severity of blunt hepatic trauma using CE-MDCT as a reference standard.

Materials and methods

A blunt liver trauma model was created using 20 rabbits, and CE-MDCT, CEUS, and serum liver enzyme assays were performed. A radiologist and an ultrasound physician independently evaluated the degree of liver trauma. The diagnostic performance of CEUS and serum liver enzyme measurements was compared with that of CE-MDCT using Spearman’s correlation analysis and Pearson’s correlation analysis, respectively.

Results

Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between the CEUS-based classification and CE-MDCT was 0.888. The aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase concentrations and the aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase ratio were positively correlated with the grade of liver injury; Pearson’s correlation coefficients were 0.664, 0.704, and 0.503, respectively. The gamma-glutamyltransferase concentration had a significantly negative correlation with the grade of liver injury (r = −0.467).

Conclusions

CEUS and serum liver enzyme measurement exhibited high consistency with CE-MDCT for both detection and grading of intraparenchymal lesions in blunt liver trauma. These techniques may permit more accurate diagnosis of liver trauma.
A Controlled Comparative Trial of Mianserin and Diazepam in the Treatment of Anxiety States in Psychiatric Out-Patients
Authors: Conti L , Pinder R M
Published: January 2017

Forty psychiatric out-patients with primary anxiety entered a double-blind trial comparing 2 weeks of treatment with mianserin 30–60 mg daily or diazepam 15–30 mg daily, followed by 2 weeks of single-blind placebo administration.

Both drugs were effective anti-anxiety agents, but mianserin was significantly superior in efficacy as measured by the Physician's Global Rating of Severity of Illness. No differences between treatments were apparent using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety.

There were no significant differences in terms of side-effects, and both drugs increased anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation over baseline values. With one exception in the mianserin group, all patients who entered placebo treatment became worse.
Euhypnos Forte® (Temazepam) in Insomniac Patients: A Clinical Trial in General Practice
Authors: Sussman Helen S
Published: January 2017

In an open evaluation, soft gelatin capsules containing 20 mg temazepam (Euhypnos Forte®) were administered in doses of 40–60 mg to 134 patients from twenty-two general practices. The patients selected by the general practitioners were those known to require hypnotics but in whom conventional doses had proven unsatisfactory. Of the 134 patients who entered the trial, 104 preferred the higher doses of two or three capsules. Eighty-eight per cent of these patients found Euhypnos Forte to be ‘very good’ or ‘good’ and 69% expressed preference for Euhypnos over their customary medication. Eighty-eight per cent of these patients experienced no hangover effect.
A Placebo Controlled, Double-Blind Evaluation of Levamisole in the Reduction of the Frequency, Duration and Severity of Attacks in Children Suffering from Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Dils F
Published: January 2017

In a double-blind placebo controlled study of levamisole in the treatment of children with recurrent upper respiratory tract infection (URI) eighty-six patients took part. Medication was given once a week, in a single body-weight adjusted dose. The children treated with levamisole had a statistically significantly reduced incidence of episodes of infection which were less severe, less prolonged and required less antibiotics. No side-effects were reported.
Injectable Depot Corticosteroid Therapy in Hay Fever
Authors: Kronholm A
Published: January 2017

Forty-two patients with stable hay fever were treated with injections of long-acting corticosteroids. They were randomly assigned to either 2 ml of betamethasone dipropionate + betamethasone phosphate (Diprospan®) or 2 ml of methylprednisolone acetate (Depomedrol®). Eye and nose symptoms were evaluated according to a four-step scale at weekly intervals. Both steroids were highly efficacious in reducing the symptoms with maximal effect one week after injection and slow diminution during subsequent weeks. However, Diprospan showed a significantly better effect than Depomedrol on all symptons. It is concluded that depot injectable formulations of corticosteroids are a useful therapeutic alternative in hay fever.
Insulin Requirements in Diabetic Patients Treated with Sulphinpyrazone
Authors: Pannebakker Martin A G , den Ottolander Gerard J H , ten Pas Johan G
Published: January 2017

Forty-one adult diabetic patients of either sex who had been controlled by insulin alone for at least one year were randomly allocated in a double-blind, between-patient study, to either sulphinpyrazone (600–800 mg daily) or an identical placebo and treated for 12 months: During this period, and at the end of it, no clinically or statistically significant change of the insulin needs of the patients was observed. It is concluded that no clinical interaction occurs between sulphinpyrazone (800 mg/day or 600 mg/day) and insulin when they are administered simultaneously for long periods. In the doses used the tolerability of sulphinpyrazone was very good.
A Comparative Double-Blind Study of Tiaprofenic Acid and Aspirin in the Treatment of Muscular Rheumatism, Fibrositis, Sprains and Soft Tissue Injuries in General Practice
Authors: Donald J F , Molla A Layes
Published: January 2017

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of tiaprofenic acid 200 mg t.d.s. were compared with those of aspirin 600 mg t.d.s. in 100 patients in general practice suffering from muscular rheumatic pain, fibrositis, sprains and soft tissue injuries.

Tiaprofenic acid was shown to be better than aspirin in relieving pain by clinical assessment although both drugs were equally effective according to patients daily assessment.

It was not possible to demonstrate any anti-inflammatory action by reduction of swelling, but this was only present in 20% of patients initially.

Side-effects, none serious, were similar in both groups.
Acetylcysteine (Fabrol) in Chronic Bronchitis — A Study in General Practice
Authors: Tattersall A B , Bridgman K M , Huitson A
Published: January 2017

The results of this general practice study suggest that acetylcysteine (Fabrol) administered orally for 2 months to patients with chronic bronchitis effectively changes the viscosity and character of sputum with resultant ease of expectoration and cough severity. There was a notable improvement in associated abnormal physical signs such as the presence of rhonchi, crepitations and symptoms including dyspnoea at rest. Tolerability was good, with 81% of patients experiencing no side-effects.
Efficacy and Tolerance of Enteric-Coated Erythromycin Base (Ery-Max®) Administered Twice or Four Times Daily in Patients with Acute Bronchitis
Authors: Pekkanen Pehr-Samuel , Josefsson Kenneth
Published: January 2017

We performed a double-blind trial of a new formulation of erythromycin base as enteric-coated pellets (Ery-Max®) in the treatment of acute bronchitis in 220 patients. Subjects were randomized to receive either 500 mg twice or 250 mgfour times a day for 10 days. The response to treatment as assessed clinically and by changes in sputum purulence was the same in the two groups. Thus 97% and 98% of the patients had a good or improved clinical effect. Treatment was well tolerated, but side-effects were encountered more often in the q.i.d. group (p > 0·05). In conclusion, the study showed that the enteric-coated erythromycin as pellets, given twice or four times daily for 10 days, was well tolerated and equally effective in acute bronchitis. Hence, the more convenient b.i.d. regimen can be recommended.
Clinical Use and Efficacy of Furacin: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Hooper Gerard , Covarrubias Jesus
Published: January 2017

This paper discusses the use of nitrofurazone in the treatment, or prophylaxis, of wound infection, various pyodermas and second and third degree burns, as well as its prophylactic use in skin grafting and donor sites. The literature is reviewed over three decades.
Phage-Types and Susceptibility to 26 Antibiotics of Nosocomial Strains of Acinetobacter Isolated in Portugal
Authors: Ferreira M O Santos , Vieu J F , Klein B
Published: January 2017

Sixty-two strains of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus isolated from pathological samples or from the environment in several hospitals in Lisbon, were studied by means of two complementary phage-typing systems. Eighteen phage-types or sub-types, one group of uncommon types (9·6%) and one group of untypable strains (20·9%) were found. A new phage-type (No. 104) and a new sub-type (No. 18) were defined among the Portuguese strains.

The in vitro activity of 26 antibiotics against 48 nosocomial strains was studied by the Kirby-Bauer method. The most active antibiotics were, in decreasing order, amikacin, carbenicillin, tobramycin, minocycline, dibekacin, doxycycline, sisomycin, trimethoprim-sulphamethoxacole, ticarcillin and piperacillin. The strains were also tested against 4 new beta-lactam antibiotics, and the MICs were determined by an agar dilution method. N-formimidoyl-thienamycin was found to be the most active against Acinetobacter and ceftazidime was considerably more active than apalcillin and cefotaxime.
Update on Ibuprofen: Review Article
Authors: Busson Mervyn
Published: January 2017

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have become the principal mode of therapy for rheumatic diseases and their use has continued to increase despite concern expressed recently regarding potential hazards (Figure 1).

Prior to 1969, a limited number of NSAID drugs were available. Aspirin and indomethacin became the mainstay of treatment but tolerability, particularly gastric irritation, at doses necessary to control rheumatic symptoms limited the usefulness of these valuable agents. The pyrazolone, phenylbutazone, showed slightly better gastro-intestinal (GIT) tolerability but has since been associated with an increased risk of blood dyscrasiae and is now only available for restricted use in most countries.

Ibuprofen was the first of a new breed of NSAIDs originally introduced into the United Kingdom in 1969. Chemically quite distinct from its forerunners it was the first of the propionic acid derivatives to be used in rheumatic practice. The propionics have since become the largest, single and most important group of NSAIDs accounting for 50% of NSAID prescriptions in the United Kingdom. It is estimated that over 100 million patients worldwide have received ibuprofen which is now available in over 100 countries throughout the world including all the major markets.

Ibuprofen was developed directly as a result of the problems associated with the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and also because of the gastro-intestinal irritation and general intolerability of the established NSAIDs, at that time. Ibuprofen was readily accepted because, unlike the previous drugs, its therapeutic efficacy was easily seen to outweigh the severity of its side-effects. Ibuprofen was the first new drug with the potency of aspirin but without its major disadvantages.
Effects of Nicardipine on Chronic Stable Effort Angina: a Non-Invasive Assessment
Authors: Galderisi M. , Celentano A. , Mossetti G. , Garofalo M. , Mureddu G. F. , Tammaro P. , Gravina E. , de Divitiis O.
Published: January 2017

The effects of 60 mg/day nicardipine hydrochloride were evaluated in a 4-week single-blind study on 12 patients with chronic stable effort angina. All patients completed the treatment with few reports of adverse effects. Nicardipine hydrochloride was effective in reducing the incidence of anginal attacks and consumption of glyceryl trinitrate. Treadmill exercise time, angina onset time and the time to 1 mm ST-segment depression were increased. The extent of ST-segment depression was reduced at maximum comparable exercise, with a reduced rate–pressure product and, at maximum exercise, with an increased rate–pressure product. Myocardial stress 201Tl scintillography was carried out in eight of the patients and showed improved washout in antero-septal, infero-apical and postero-lateral segments. Echocardiographic measures of left ventricular function were enhanced because of reduction of afterload. Systemic vascular resistance and end-systolic stress were also decreased and a significant correlation was found between the increase in ejection fraction and reduction of systolic blood pressure. It is concluded that nicardipine hydrochloride is effective in the control of stable effort angina by reducing myocardial oxygen consumption and enhancing coronary blood flow thereby improving left ventricular function.
Ciprofloxacin in Elderly Patients with Underlying Chronic Diseases
Authors: Bianchi W. , Maggiolo F. , Ohnmeiss H.
Published: January 2017

Age is not as important in predisposing to infections as are the associated problems peculiar to certain age groups. Factors such as the advanced age of the patients combined with the presence of chronic disease reduce their resistance to infection. This study comprises 212 elderly patients (aged 65–98 years) who were treated with 500–1000 mg/day ciprofloxacin for 1–18 days. Despite the high incidence of associated chronic diseases, microbiology showed that infections were eradicated in 88.5%. Clinical resolution occurred in 75.5% of patients and clinical failure occurred in 6.1%. Treatment was well tolerated, with clinical side-effects reported in only seven patients. Ciprofloxacin may be considered an effective and safe antimicrobial agent for the treatment of infections in the elderly.
Clinical and Haemodynamic Effects of Ketanserin in Lean and Obese Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Licata G. , Scaglione R. , Parrinello G. , Capuana G. , Mazzola G. , Lipari R. , Castello R. , Galantino L.
Published: January 2017

Systemic and central haemodynamics were evaluated in 10 lean and 10 obese hypertensive patients (World Health Organization stage I – II) after treatment for 8 weeks with a serotoninergic antagonist, such as ketanserin. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded and first-pass radionuclide angiocardiography was performed to determine cardiac output, cardiac index and ejection fraction of the left ventricle; total peripheral resistance was also calculated. In both obese and lean patients, ketanserin significantly reduced diastolic ( P < 0.05) and mean ( P < 0.005) blood pressure but no significant changes in systolic blood pressure, cardiac output, cardiac index and ejection fraction were observed in lean and obese hypertensive patients. Total peripheral resistance was significantly ( P < 0.05) reduced in lean patients but in obese hypertensives it was only moderately reduced. It is concluded that monotherapy with ketanserin is effective in treating mild to moderate hypertension in both lean and obese hypertensive patients, without interfering with left ventricular performance.
Renal Excretory Actions of Furosemide, of Hydrochlorothiazide and of the Vasodilator Flosequinan in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Leary W.P. , Reyes A.J. , Wynne R.D. , van der Byl K.
Published: January 2017

The responses of urine and urinary solute outputs and flows to single doses of 80 mg furosemide, a25 mg hydrochlorothiazide, and 100 or 200 mg flosequinan were investigated in healthy subjects using a double-blind, randomized, crossover design. Treatment days were separated by 7 days. Volumes of urine passed between 0 and 3, 3 and 6, 6 and 9, 9 and 12, and 12 and 24 h after drug administration were determined and urinary concentrations of chloride, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, zinc, urate, urea and creatinine were measured. Venous blood was taken before and 6 and 24 h after dosing and the serum was analysed for the same solutes as urine. Excretions of urine and urinary solutes accumulated at the end of each collection period after each formulation were fitted by the UY function, whose derivative provided corresponding flows as functions of time. Instantaneous renal clearances of solutes 6 and 24 h after dosing were evaluated from the flows. This approach showed that 80 mg furosemide and 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide were equipotent 24-h natriuretics. Rapid urinary responses which then rebounded compared with the control responses were produced by 80 mg furosemide, whereas changes after 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide were smooth. Neither 100 or 200 mg flosequinan showed any important effect on urinary excretion.
Calcium, Phosphorus and Aluminium Concentrations in the Central Nervous System, Liver and Kidney of Rabbits with Experimental Atherosclerosis: Preventive Effects of Vinpocetine on the Deposition of These Elements
Authors: Yasui M. , Yano I. , Ota K. , Oshima A.
Published: January 2017

Calcium, phosphorus and aluminium concentrations in the central nervous system, liver and kidneys were determined in 16 rabbits with atherosclerosis experimentally induced by a cholesterol-rich diet and the protective effect of 3 or 10 mg/kgday vinpocetine (14-ethoxycarbonyl-(3α,16α-ethyl)-14,15-eburnamenine) given orally on the deposition of these elements was assessed. Rabbits fed a cholesterol-rich diet developed atherosclerosis after 3 months and these rabbits possessed high concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and aluminium in the central nervous system, determined by neutron activation analysis. In atherosclerotic rabbits fed a vinpocetine supplement, there was a decrease in concentrations of these elements in tissues. It is suggested that calcium, phosphorus and aluminium may be implicated in the aetiology of atherosclerosis and that vinpocetine may have a preventive action on the deposition of these elements in central nervous tissue, liver and kidney.
Efficacy and Safety of Clarithromycin versus Josamycin in the Treatment of Hospitalized Patients with Bacterial Pneumonia
Authors: Straneo G. , Scarpazza G.
Published: January 2017

The efficacy and safety of 500 mg clarithromycin and 1000 mg josamycin both given twice daily for a maximum of 14 days were compared in the treatment of 72 hospitalized patients with bacterial pneumonia. The predominant pathogens isolated were Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Clinical success was reported for 91.5% of patients treated with clarithromycin and for 87.0% of those treated with josamycin. Eradication of the causative pathogen was noted in 85.7% of patients receiving clarithromycin and in 90% of those receiving josamycin. Adverse events considered probably to relate to therapy were experienced by 2% of patients treated with clarithromycin and by 12.5% of those treated with josamycin; one patient treated with josamycin was withdrawn because of severe nausea and moderate vomiting. Treatment with clarithromycin at half the dosage of josamycin was found to have comparable efficacy and to be associated with a lower incidence of adverse events.
The Role of Lipids in Nutrition during the First Months of Life
Authors: Giovannini M. , Agostoni C. , Salari P.-C.
Published: January 2017

The most important functional components of dietary lipids (triglycerides, cholesterol esters and phospholipids) are fundamental to normal growth and development of infants. Fatty acids are classified according to their chain length and their degree of saturation. Each class of fatty acid is involved in specific metabolic reactions: short-chain fatty acids act as local growth factors in the colon; medium- and saturated long-chain fatty acids are a good source of energy; polysaturated long-chain fatty acids are involved in metabolic regulation; and very long-chain fatty acids are important structural components of membranes. The development of the central nervous system depends on the amount and the quality of the lipid supply in the last months of prenatal and the first months of postnatal life. Placental cord blood during foetal life and breast milk provide fatty acids in the correct amounts and ratios. Fats in breast milk provide half the infant's calorific needs and maternal dietary habits can influence the lipid composition of milk. The preparation of blends of fats for formulas is under investigation in order to improve the lipid quality and to make formulas more similar to breast milk. A major goal of current research is to define the nutritional and metabolic relationships between fatty acid groups and between fats and the other dietary sources of calories in order to improve the composition of infant formulas, in particular for premature babies.
Simplified Treatment of Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infection with Azithromycin: A Comparison with Erythromycin and Amoxycillin
Authors: Daniel R. ,   European Azithromycin Study Group
Published: January 2017

In two randomized, multicentre studies azithromycin treatment (1.5 g in five or six doses over 5 days) was compared with erythromycin treatment (14 or 20 g in 28 or 40 doses over 7 or 10 days) and amoxycillin treatment (10.5 g in 21 doses over 7 days) in patients with acute respiratory tract infection. In the two separate studies, azithromycin gave complete clinical cure in 70% and 51%, respectively, of patients compared with in 60% of erythromycin- and 45% of amoxycillin-treated patients. Eradication of the main pathogens isolated at baseline ( Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus) was comparable in the azithromycin, erythromycin and amoxycillin treatment groups. Efficacy was not affected by the presence or absence of underlying pulmonary disease. There were no major abnormalities in laboratory safety parameters and adverse events, principally mild/moderate gastro-intestinal symptoms occurred in 5% or 15%, respectively, of azithromycin-treated patients compared with in 18% or 17%respectively, of those receiving erythromycin or amoxycillin. It is concluded that azithromycin was as effective and better tolerated than erythromycin or amoxycillin.
Memory Storage and Effect of Repeated Treatment with a New Antidepressant Drug: Rubidium Chloride
Authors: de Angelis L.
Published: January 2017

Following 15 days' treatment with saline, 48 mg/kg rubidium chloride, 5 mg/kg imipramine hydrochloride, 10 mg/kg sodium phenobarbitone, 1000 mg/kg piracetam, or 0.20 mg/kg strychnine nitrate all administered intraperitoneally, mice were evaluated by habituation of exploratory activity using an open-field apparatus. In control animals a significant ( P < 0.05) decrease in open-field responses (ambulation, rearing and defaecation) was seen following a 1-day intersession interval and there was no retention of exploratory activity after a 5-day intersession interval. Administration of imipramine or phenobarbitone for 15 days was found to impair retention of memory after 1 day, whereas treatment with rubidium chloride, piracetam, or strychnine for 15 days improve retention after a 5-day intersession interval.
Picturing peace: murals and memory in Colombia
Authors: Rolston Bill , Ospina Sofi
Published: January 2017

The painting of murals and graffiti is a widespread and well-established practice in Colombia. Most of the artwork is not directly political. However, a significant number of murals speak directly to the political problems of the society; to the protracted violent political conflict and the emerging peace process in Colombia. They articulate the memory of violence and represent the demands of victims for acknowledgement, reparation and justice. That articulation varies through different regions in Colombia, depending on the balance of forces between guerrillas, former paramilitaries and the state. The phenomenon of mural painting represents the meeting between victims’ agency and activist art in Colombia.
‘See no evil’: collusion in Northern Ireland
Authors: McGovern Mark
Published: January 2017

The publication of the official report into the 1994 Loughinisland massacre, when loyalist gunmen shot dead six people in a small, rural bar, provides an opportunity to examine the nature of institutionalised collusion, the state practices it involved and the sectarianised social order which made it possible during the conflict in Northern Ireland. Building on an earlier analysis of the colonial and counter-insurgency roots of collusion ( Race & Class, 57, no. 2) this article provides a commentary on the findings of the Loughinisland report and explores two issues. The first concerns new evidence (directly contradicting earlier official inquiries) of state collusion in the importation of arms used by loyalists to escalate their campaign of assassination in this period. Second, the extent to which collusive practices facilitated the actions of loyalist paramilitaries and confounded the investigation of the mass killings at Loughinisland as elsewhere. In terms of both, it will be argued, there is a need to place an understanding of collusion in the wider context of a social order shaped by long-term sectarianised social divisions and violence, embedded in localised power structures, which framed the very institutions and agencies of the state, not least the police and other state forces.
Inside the CBS
Authors: Ryan Geoffrey Cobb
Published: January 2017

Clearing the air by Daniel Schorr Houghton Mifflin Company Boston 333pp (illustrated with 16pp insert) $11.95
Trigeminal neuralgia – diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Maarbjerg Stine , Di Stefano Giulia , Bendtsen Lars , Cruccu Giorgio
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is characterized by touch-evoked unilateral brief shock-like paroxysmal pain in one or more divisions of the trigeminal nerve. In addition to the paroxysmal pain, some patients also have continuous pain. TN is divided into classical TN (CTN) and secondary TN (STN).

Etiology and pathophysiology

Demyelination of primary sensory trigeminal afferents in the root entry zone is the predominant pathophysiological mechanism. Most likely, demyelination paves the way for generation of ectopic impulses and ephaptic crosstalk. In a significant proportion of the patients, the demyelination is caused by a neurovascular conflict with morphological changes such as compression of the trigeminal root. However, there are also other unknown etiological factors, as only half of the CTN patients have morphological changes. STN is caused by multiple sclerosis or a space-occupying lesion affecting the trigeminal nerve.

Differential diagnosis and treatment

Important differential diagnoses include trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, posttraumatic or postherpetic pain and other facial pains. First line treatment is prophylactic medication with sodium channel blockers, and second line treatment is neurosurgical intervention.

Future perspectives

Future studies should focus on genetics, unexplored etiological factors, sensory function, the neurosurgical outcome and complications, combination and neuromodulation treatment as well as development of new drugs with better tolerability.
A Scavenger Role for Nitric Oxide in the Aged Rat Kidney
Authors: De Lutiis M.A. , Felaco M. , Gizzi F. , Patruno A. , Speranza L. , Di Giulio C. , Conti P. , Castellani M.L. , Petrarca C. , Grilli A.
Published: January 2017

Progressive ageing is associated with an increment of biomolecules modified through oxidation as a result of the action of free radicals deriving from reactive oxygen species that attack biomolecules. During ageing many alterations of renal functions have been reported. Renal ageing is associated with a progressive decline of glomerular filtration, renal blood flow and augmented vascular resistance. The kidney is a very important source of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in both epithelial and vascular structures. In this study we have investigated mRNA and protein iNOS expression and localization and nitric oxide (NO) production in young and aged rats. An increased expression of iNOS occurs in rat kidney during ageing. In the aged rat, an increase in the values of both iNOS-RNA and iNOS protein was observed through rtPCR and Western blot analysis. The activities of three isoforms of NOS were also seen. In the aged rat kidney the production of NO decreased, due to the reduction of the activities of the three NOS. This suggests that in the aged rat a progressive increase of superoxide anion does not imply an increase in the production of NO which functions as a scavenger molecule, causing oxidative stress with accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Factors Associated with Apoptosis in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Artese L. , Ucchino S. , Piattelli A. , Piccirilli M. , Perrotti V. , Mezzetti A. , Cipollone F.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences that are present between apoptosis in symptomatic (with symptoms of cerebral ischemic attack) and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques. The apoptotic process in macrophages and smooth muscle cells was evaluated. Cellular markers and products of immune cells in symptomatic and asymptomatic atherosclerotic plaque and endoarterectomy specimen were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. No statistically significant differences were present regarding the mean SMC actin-positive area. Using double staining of α-smooth muscle actin and TUNEL techniques, the number of smooth muscle cells in apoptosis was statistically higher in symptomatic plaque as compared with asymptomatic plaque. Statistically significant differences (p=0.009) were also found in the CD45-positive cells in the inflammatory infiltrate. The CD68-positive macrophages showed statistically significant differences (p=0.0001). Similarly, the double staining with CD68 and TUNEL revealed that apoptotic macrophages were mainly present in asymptomatic plaques rather than symptomatic plaques. Statistically significant differences (p<0.001) were found in the Bcl-2 expression, with higher values in asymptomatic plaques. Our data showed that the increase of the inflammatory cells contributes to plaque instability and that death due to apoptosis of smooth muscle cells in symptomatic plaques could contribute to their destabilization and explains their tendency to fracture.
Aluminum Impairs Rat Neural Cell Mitochondria In Vitro
Authors: Niu P.Y. , Niu Q. , Zhang Q.L. , Wang L.P. , He S.C. , Wu T.C. , Conti P. , Di Gioacchino M. , Boscolo P.
Published: January 2017

Exposure to aluminum has been reported to lead to neurotoxicity. Mitochondria are important organelles involved in maintaining cell function. This study investigates the effect of aluminum on mitochondria in rat neural cells. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was observed, and the cell death rate (CDR), reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and 3-[4,5demethyl-2-thiazalyl]-2,-5diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) were measured to investigate the effect of aluminum on the mitochondrial structure and its function in neural cells. Results observed from the mitochondrial ultrastructure show that aluminum may impair the mitochondrial membrane and cristae. Increased CDR, enhanced ROS, decreased MMP, and decreased enzyme activity in mitochondria were observed in the Al-exposed neurons (100 – 500 μM). The present study demonstrates that alteration in the mitochondrial structure and function plays an important role in neurotoxic mechanisms induced by aluminum.
Significant Changes of Peripheral Perfusion and Plasma Adrenomedullin Levels in N-Acetylcysteine Long Term Treatment of Patients with Sclerodermic Raynaud's Phenomenon
Authors: Salsano F. , Letizia C. , Proietti M. , Rossi C. , Proietti A.R. , Rosato E. , Pisarri S.
Published: January 2017

The unclear pathogenesis of scleroderma vascular lesions makes treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients very difficult and a new effective treatment is requested. Recently, a powerful antioxidant agent, the N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been shown to decrease the frequency and severity of RP in SSc patients. Subsequently, using functional infrared imaging, we showed that a single 1-hour NAC infusion in these patients caused a significant increase of skin temperature. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of long term therapy with NAC in an open, clinical trial evaluating clinical, instrumental and laboratory parameters. Patients started the treatment receiving for two years, from October to May, intravenous NAC infusions of 15 mg/kg per hour each, for 5 consecutive hours, every two weeks. Before and after each infusion, patients underwent both Laser Doppler perfusion Imaging (LDPI) for the evaluation of the digital perfusion and a blood test to ascertain the plasma adrenomedullin (AM) levels. The NAC infusion increased global hands perfusion and induced a significant decreasing of plasma AM concentrations. Side effects were negligible, easy to control and reversible. Reduction of frequency and severity of RP attacks was recorded. In conclusion, NAC seems to act as an effective vasodilatator in the treatment of RP secondary to SSc and, in addition, it induced significant changes in plasma levels of AM, a potent vasodilator endothelial-derived peptide.
Phosphodiesterase Type-5 Inhibitor and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Speranza L. , Franceschelli S. , Pesce M. , Vinciguerra I. , De Lutiis M.A. , Grilli A. , Felaco M. , Patruno A.
Published: January 2017

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical condition that affects the sexual life of millions of men worldwide. Numerous physical and psychological factors are involved in normal erectile function, including neurological, vascular, hormonal and cavernous functions. The current therapy for the condition is pharmacological and psychotherapeutic which regulates the erectile function and amplifies the NO-mediated response. The aim of this work is to test the action of three common phosphodiesterase inhibitors: Tadalafil, Sildenafil Citrate and Vardenafil at 0.05 μM on human monocytes, analyzing the expression of iNOS protein and mRNA by Western blot and rt-PCR, and production of NO by conversion of L-(2,3,4,5)-[3H]Arginine to L-(3H) citrulline. We also tested the efficiency of the antioxidant network by spectrophotometer (SOD, CAT, GPx and Gr), under normal conditions and after stimulation with LPS. The results showed an increase in ROS levels, similar for all the molecules with regard to the antioxidant enzymes. In all cases the treatment determines a response to the limited efficiency, arriving at a situation in which phosphodiesterase inhibitors + LPS clearly show oxidative stress.
Inhibition of Semicarbazide-Sensitive Amine Oxidases Decreases Lymphocyte Infiltration in the Early Phases of Rat Liver Allograft Rejection
Authors: Martelius T. , Salmi M. , Krogerus L. , Loginov R. , Schoultz M. , Karikoski M. , Miiluniemi M. , Soots A. , Höckerstedt K. , Jalkanen S. , Lautenschlager I.
Published: January 2017

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) has been shown to mediate lymphocyte adhesion to endothelia at sites of inflammation in vitro and in vivo. VAP-1 is also an ectoenzyme with semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (SSAO) activity. In this study we investigated whether inhibition of SSAO influences the inflammatory infiltration in acute rat liver allograft rejection. BN recipients of DA liver allografts were treated with 50 mg/kg/d semicarbazide, an inhibitor of SSAO, or similar volumes of saline. 10 rats/group were followed for graft survival, and 10 rats/group were sacrificed on day 7 post-transplantation for histology and T-lymphocyte isolation. The area percentage of portal inflammatory infiltrates in the grafts was assessed from digital photomicrographs. The proportion of CD4-, CD8- and IL2-receptor positive lymphocytes in the graft was quantified with flow cytometry. On day 7, semicarbazide treatment significantly decreased the inflammatory infiltrate area in the grafts. CD4-, CD8- and IL2-receptor positive cells were equally affected. However, animal survival was not affected. Blockade of the enzymatic activity of VAP-1 has a significant effect on lymphocyte infiltration early in acute liver rejection. Later, activation of other adhesion pathways can by-pass the blockade caused by VAP-inhibition.
Acetylsalicylic Acid Inhibits Proliferation of Human Bone Marrow Stromal Cells and Matrix Mineralization
Authors: Guida L. , Annunziata M. , Passaro I. , Buonaiuto C. , Rullo R. , Tetè S. , Della Ragione F. , Oliva A.
Published: January 2017

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been shown to potentially inhibit bone healing and bone formation in both animal and clinical studies. Due to the extensive diffusion of ASA-based long-term therapies, the implications of such a side-effect are of interest in all types of bone surgery, including bone grafting procedures and dental implant placement. In this study, we investigate the effect of ASA at therapeutic concentrations on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). Primary cultures of BMSCs were isolated and expanded. Their proliferation in response to ASA 50, 100 and 200 μg/ml was evaluated by MTT assay and 3H-thymidine incorporation. Cell cycle machinery was also investigated by FACS and analysis of inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKIs). ASA inhibited BMSC proliferation and DNA synthesis in a dose-dependent manner down to 60% of control (ASA 200 μg/ml) at 72 h. Cell cycle analysis showed a decrease of BMSCs in the S and G2/M phases with a concomitant accumulation in GO/1 in ASA treated cells. The finding was associated to increased levels of some CDKIs, namely p27Kip1 and p21Cip1, whereas ASA did not affected p16Ink4A level at any of the concentrations employed. The matrix mineralization, that represents the major feature of the osteogenic commitment, was assessed by a specific staining procedure (von Kossa) and by calcium content determination. Both the methods demonstrated an extensive reduction (>90%) of extracellular calcification at 200 μg/ml ASA. On the basis of our results, we can hypothesize that the widely reported inhibition of bone healing by ASA might be sustained both by a direct anti-proliferative effect on BMSCs and by an alteration of the extracellular calcification.
Genotyping of Different Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Morphotypes Arising from the Lower Respiratory Tract of a Patient Taken to an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Putignani L. , Sessa R. , Petrucca A. , Manfredini C. , Coltella L. , Menichella D. , Nicoletti M. , Russo C. , Cipriani P.
Published: January 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen and an ubiquitous environmental bacterium. Fifty-seven days after hospitalization, we isolated three distinct P. aeruginosa morphotypes (smooth, rough and mucoid) from the lower respiratory tract of a patient admitted to a Cardiology Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Moreover, a group of nine colony variants, arising from the three P. aeruginosa isolates growing in laboratory growth media, were also isolated. The resulting 12 isolates were characterised for antibiotic resistance profile and subjected to genotypic analysis by fluorescent-Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (f-AFLP) and automated repetitive extragenic palindromic-PCR (rep-PCR) fingerprinting. The three smooth, rough and mucoid morphotypes presented different antibiotic resistance profiles and genotyping analysis showed that they belonged to distinct clones, indicating that at day 57 after the admission the patient was simultaneously colonized by three distinct P. aeruginosa isolates. On the other hand, the nine colony variants presented heterogeneous antibiotic resistance profiles and clustered together with the three parental isolates. The understanding of the link between genotype plasticity and antibiotic resistance may contribute to improving our knowledge of this life-threatening pathogen.
Proteolysis of Milk Fat Globule Membrane Proteins in Preterm Milk: A Transient Phenomenon with a Possible Biological Role?
Authors: Giuffrida M.G. , Cavaletto M. , Lamberti C. , Dellavalle G. , Fabris C. , Conti A. , Sabatino G. , Testa T. , Coscia A. , Giuliani F. , Bertino E.
Published: January 2017

Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) proteins constitute a milk fraction currently of great interest, as they appear to significantly contribute to milk protective role. We investigated these proteins in human preterm colostrum and milk. For the former we found a peculiar 2-DE pattern, with a spot concentration at low molecular weight, which mass spectrometry analysis showed to be fragments belonging to some MFGM proteins with a well-known biological and especially immunological role: lactadherin, membrane-associated lactoferrin, butyrophilin, clusterin and heavy-chain immunoglobulin. Since we were able to rule out protease activity after specimen collection, we hypothesize the localization of the proteolytic enzymes in the alveolar cell membranes of the mammary gland. This mechanism is probably under hormonal control and the unexpected advent of preterm delivery would not allow hormonal conditions typical of lactation to occur immediately, causing a delay in enzymatic inhibition. This hypothesis is supported by some of our results, picturing a peculiar transient phenomenon of adaptation of the mammary-gland-membrane proteins after preterm delivery. Further studies will be required to verify whether the presence of protein fragments exerts a specific biological and immuno-defensive role in preterm infants, thus adding evidence to the outstanding biological role and benefits of mother's own milk in feeding preterm infants.
Investigation on the Possible Relationship Existing between the Hla-DR Gene and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and/or Mental Retardation
Authors: Aureli A. , Sebastiani P. , Del Beato T. , Marimpietri A. , Melillo V. , Sechi E. , Di Loreto S.
Published: January 2017

This study examines the possible relationship existing between the HLA-DR gene and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and/or mental retardation (MR). The diagnosis of ADHD and mental retardation were established through clinical interviews with the parents, children and teachers, according to the criteria in DSM-IV. HLA-DRB1 genotyping was performed both by polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) and by sequence based typing (SBT) in a cohort of 81 affected children and a sample of 100 healthy controls. Here, we report a positive association of HLA-DR4 with ADHD but not with MR. The study adds confirmation to the role of the HLA-DRB1 in the etiology of some types of childhood neuropsychiatric illnesses.