bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Double-Blind Group Comparative Trial of Nedocromil Sodium and Placebo in the Management of Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Fairfax A. J. , Allbeson M.
Published: January 2017

A 3-month double-blind group comparative trial of nedocromil sodium (4 mg twice daily) and placebo was carried out in 30 adult asthmatic patients maintained on bronchodilator therapy. Fifteen patients received each treatment. Subjective (asthma symptoms and severity) and objective (lung function and use of concomitant medication) variables were measured to monitor the response to trial treatments. Significant differences in favour of nedocromil sodium for night-time asthma, daytime asthma, cough, daytime bronchodiiator use and clinic assessment of forced expiratory volume during the first second of expiration were observed by week 4 of the trial. The diurnal variation in peak expiratory flow rate was reduced in the nedocromil sodium treated patients. There were no serious adverse reactions and no treatment related changes in haematological findings, blood biochemistry or urinalysis.
Effect of Terfenadine and Ipratropium Bromide on Ultrasonically Nebulized Distilled Water-Induced Asthma
Authors: Azevedo M. , da Costa J. Torres , Fontes P. , da Silva J. P. Moreira , Araujo O.
Published: January 2017

Inhalation of ultrasonically nebulized distilled water was used to evaluate non-specific bronchial reactivity and to investigate non-immunologically mediated asthma. Release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells and stimulation of lung irritant receptors are mechanisms that may be involved in nebulized distilled water-induced bronchoconstriction. To investigate the contribution of these mechanisms the effect of terfenadine and ipratropium bromide on the bronchial response to this stimulus was assessed. A total of 30 asthmatics (mean 28.7 years) were submitted on three different days to distilled water challenge with or without prior treatment with oral terfenadine or inhaled aerosolized ipratropium bromide. The decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s induced by the same dose of distilled water was significantly ( P < 0.001) reduced from 35.6 ± 15.8% to 19.5 ± 16% with terfenadine and to 23.9 ± 19.7% with ipratropium bromide. The results suggest that histamine release and reflex bronchoconstriction are mechanisms involved in asthma induced by ultrasonically nebulized distilled water.

A inalação de água destilada em nebulisação ultrassónica é um método para avaliar a hiperreactividade brônquica inespecífica e investigar a asma mediada por mecanismos não imunológicos. A libertação de histamina dos mastócitos e a estimulaçao das terminações irritativas pulmonares parecem estar envolvidas na broncoconstrição induzida pel a água destilada em nebulisação ultrassónica. Investigamos a contribuição destes mecanismos, avaliando o efeito da terfenadina e do brometo de ipratrópio na resposta brônquica à água destilada. Submeteram-se 30 asmáticos (idade média de 28,7 anos) a provocação com água destilada em tres dias diferentes, sem pre-medicação e após medicação com terfenadina oral ou brometo de ipratrópia em aerosol. Verificou-se uma reduçao significativa ( P < 0.001) da queda do volume expiratório máximo por segundo induzida pela mesma dose de água destilada, após administraç ão de ambos os fármacos 35,6 ± 15,8%, para 19,5 ± 16,0% com terfenadina e para 23,9 ± 19,7% com brometo de ipratrópio. Os resultados sugerem que a libertação de histamina e a broncoconstrição reflexa estão envolvidas na asma induzida pela água destilada em nebulisaçáo ultrassónica.
Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Polyunsaturated Ethyl Ester Lipids (Angiosan®) in Patients with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Lassus A. , Dahlgren A.-L. , Halpern M.J. , Santalahti J. , Happonen H.-P.
Published: January 2017

A total of 80 patients with chronic, stable psoriasis, 34 of whom also had psoriatic arthritis, were treated with 1122 mg/day eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester and 756 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid ethyl ester. Before the study and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment a Psoriatic Association scoring index (PASI) score was assessed. Before treatment the mean PASI score was 3.56, after 4 weeks 1.98 and after 8 weeks 1.24; the decrease in the score was highly significant ( P < 0.001). The degree of pruritis decreased most rapidly, followed by scaling and induration of the plaques, and erythema was most persistent. At the end of the trial, seven patients were completely healed and in 13 other patients more than 75% healing was observed but in 14 patients the result was poor. The majority of patients with psoriatic arthritis reported a subjective improvement in joint pain during the study. It is concluded that polyunsaturated ethyl ester lipids may be useful for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and may provide an important adjuvant to standard therapy of both conditions.
Determination of Plasma Concentrations of Cyclandelate and Mandelic Acid in Patients with Generalized Atherosclerotic Vasculopathy Treated with Oral Cyclandelate
Authors: Forconi S. , Cappelli R. , Guerrini M. , Volpi L. , Frigerio C. , Perri T. Di
Published: January 2017

Cyclandelate, a vasoactive substance consisting of the mandelic acid ester of 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexanol, was administered to 10 patients with cerebrovascular and/or peripheral vascular disease. Blood specimens were collected at 1 − 6 h after oral administration of 1600 mg cyclandelate, and the ester and acid were extracted from plasma in acid medium using n-hexane/isopropyl alcohol. The concentrations were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography isocratic system. The highest plasma cyclandelate concentrations were detected at the third hour, whereas plasma mandelic acid concentrations were still increasing 6 h after administration.
Oral and Intravenous Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Doxofylline in Patients with Chronic Bronchitis
Authors: Bologna E. , Laganà A. , Terracino D. , Bolignari P. , Biffignandi P.
Published: January 2017

Serum doxofylline concentrations were evaluated after solid-phase extraction by high-performance liquid chromatography following administration of 100 mg doxofylline given as a single intravenous dose over 10 min or 400 mg doxofylline given orally twice daily for 5 days in six and eight non-smoking, fasting, chronic bronchitic patients, respectively. Doxofylline possessed a very short distribution phase following intravenous administration, with a sustained elimination phase (half-life 1.83 ± 0.37 h). After oral administration, the peak serum doxofylline concentration was 15.21 ± 1.73 μg/ml and the mean elimination half-life was 7.01 ± 0.80 h; there was a large inter-subject variability. No side-effects were experienced by the patients during the study.
Percutaneous Treatment of Acute Soft Tissue Lesions with Naproxen Gel and Ketoprofen Gel
Authors: Baixauli F. , Inglés F. , Alcántara P. , Navarrete R. , Puchol E. , Vidal F. , Castellá Francisco Baixauli
Published: January 2017

A randomized, independent-group, single-blind study was performed to compare the analgesic efficacy and the local and cosmetic tolerability of 3 – 5 cm of 10% naproxen gel with 10% ketoprofen gel in 30 patients complaining of moderate or severe pain due to acute soft tissue lesions. Both drugs were administered topically and were applied to the painful area at least once every 12 h as required. Naproxen gel was effective, cosmetically acceptable and safe in the treatment of acute soft tissue lesions. Efficacy and tolerability of both naproxen gel and ketoprofen gel were comparable, although naproxen gel produced a significantly greater reduction in pain on deep palpation by the third day of treatment.
Evaluation of Serratia Peptidase in Acute or Chronic Inflammation of Otorhinolaryngology Pathology: A Multicentre, Double-Blind, Randomized Trial versus Placebo
Authors: Mazzone A. , Catalani M. , Costanzo M. , Drusian A. , Mandoli A. , Russo S. , Guarini E. , Vesperini G.
Published: January 2017

The efficacy and tolerability of Serratia peptidase were evaluated in a multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 193 subjects suffering from acute or chronic ear, nose or throat disorders. Treatment lasted 7–8 days, with the drug or placebo being administered at a rate of two tablets three times a day. After 3–4 days' treatment, significant symptom regression was observed in peptidase-treated patients. There was also a significant reduction in symptoms after 7 – 8 days for patients in both treatment groups but the response was more marked in those patients receiving the active drug. Statistical comparison between the two groups confirmed the greater efficacy and rapid action of the peptidase against all the symptoms examined at both stages. Tolerance was found to be very good and similar for both groups. It is concluded that Serratia peptidase has anti-inflammatory, anti-oedemic and fibrinolytic activity and acts rapidly on localized inflammation.
Treatment of Intermittent Claudication with Antiplatelet Agents
Authors: Giansante C. , Calabrese S. , Fisicaro M. , Fiotti N. , Mitri E.
Published: January 2017

In a double-blind study, 296 patients with intermittent claudication (Fontaine stage II) were treated with 250 mg ticlopidine twice daily, 500 mg aspirin every third day plus 75 mg dipyridamole three times daily, or 300 mg xanthinol nicotinate three times daily for 6 months. Ticlopidine and aspirin/dipyridamole, but not xanthinol nicotinate, improved platelet aggregation, reduced β-thromboglobulin, platelet factor IV and fibrinopeptide A concentrations, and increased antithrombin III concentrations and red blood cell filterability. No changes in lipid profiles, platelet count or fibrinogen were recorded following any treatment. The doppler systolic blood pressure ratio was improved in patients treated with ticlopidine or aspirin/dipyridamole, but not with xanthinol nicotinate. It is concluded that antiplatelet treatment is useful for the treatment of limb arteriopathy.
Effects of Calcium, Magnesium, Tobramycin and Theophylline on Phenobarbitone Binding to Serum Proteins
Authors: Pérez-Gallardo L. , Rabadan L. , Escanero J.F.
Published: January 2017

Binding of phenobarbitone to human serum proteins was determined in vitro using ultrafiltration. At therapeutic concentrations of 10–600|μM, 63.51 ± 2.5% of the phenobarbitone was bound to total serum proteins. The binding kinetics were non-saturable and the plasma apparent affinity coefficient ( NKa) was 0.791 ± 0.09 for normal serum and 0.664 ± 0.06 for chromatographed serum. Tobramycin and theophylline at therapeutic concentrations of 10 and 15 μg/ml, respectively, reduced NKa compared with the values found in normal serum. Calcium and especially magnesium at physiological concentrations of 2.5 and 5 mM, respectively, increased NKa compared with values obtained in chromatographed serum, whereas at supraphysiological concentrations of magnesium of 15 mM NKa was reduced. It is concluded that free phenobarbitone concentrations in serum can be modified by calcium, magnesium, tobramycin and theophylline, and this fact must be considered when studying enzyme induction and other properties of phenobarbitone.
Head and Neck Cancer in Saudi Arabia: Retrospective Analysis of 65 Patients
Authors: Al-Idrissi H.Y.
Published: January 2017

A total of 65 patients with confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were retrospectively reviewed. The patients' mean age was 48.6 years and 64.6% were males, with 41.5% of patients being smokers and 26.2% users of chewable tobacco, pepper and oil. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma was the most common site (43.1%), with 41.5% of patients having poorly differentiated tumours, and 38.5% were diagnosed as stage III and 13.8% as stage IV. The survival probability was calculated to be 74% at 24 months and the multivariate regression model of Cox showed that advanced stage (stage III or IV) and omission of radiotherapy adversely influenced survival. It is concluded that the data should be used for future comparisons with those accruing from those current prospective trials.
Azithromycin, Erythromycin and Cloxacillin in the Treatment of Infections of Skin and Associated Soft Tissues
Authors: Daniel R. ,   European Azithromycin Study Group
Published: January 2017

Azithromycin (total dose 1.5 g) given orally in five or six doses over 5 days was compared with erythromycin and cloxacillin both given orally as 500 mg four times daily for 7 days in two multicentre studies of patients with skin and associated soft-tissue infections. Azithromycin eradicated baseline pathogen(s), mainly Staphylococcus aureus, in 89% compared with in 78%, of erythromycin-treated patients ( P = 0.501) and in 78% compared with in 59% of cloxacillin-treated patients ( P = 0.421). No statistically significant difference in clinical cure was reported between azithromycin (74%) and erythromycin (75%, P = 1.00) and between azithromycin (60%) and cloxacillin (47%, P = 0.301) treatment groups. The side-effects reported for azithromycin were mainly mild or moderate gastrointestinal complaints and there were no major abnormalities in laboratory parameters. It is concluded that azith-romycin was as effective as, but better tolerated than, either erythromycin or cloxacillin and short-course therapy may improve patient compliance.
The Effect of Dextran on the Pharmacokinetics of Lignocaine during Epidural Anaesthesia
Authors: Alkhawajah A , Farag H
Published: January 2017

The clinical significance of combining local anaesthetics with dextran is controversial. Although a number of investigators have found that dextran can prolong the action of local anaesthetics, others have not been able to demonstrate any significant change in the duration of anaesthesia. A study was carried out to investigate the effect of dextran on the pharmacokinetic behaviour of lignocaine during epidural anaesthesia in 20 adult male patients, who were randomly allocated to two treatment groups: group 1 ( n = 10) was given lignocaine – dextran; group 2 ( n = 10) was given lignocaine – saline. The results of the study demonstrated that the addition of dextran to epidural lignocaine significantly slowed systemic absorption of lignocaine as indicated by a smaller absorption rate constant, a reduced peak plasma concentration (Cmax), a delayed time to reach Cmax, and a smaller area under the concentration – time curve. The observed findings suggest that dextran reduces vascular uptake of lignocaine from epidural space and that it may prolong the duration of action. The significance of these findings on systemic toxicity, dosage and onset of action of lignocaine need to be investigated.
The Safety and Efficacy of Zolpidem in Insomniac Patients: A Long-Term Open Study in General Practice
Authors: Maarek L , Cramer P , Attali P , Coquelin J P , Morselli P L
Published: January 2017

The safety and efficacy of 10 or 20 mg/day zolpidem, a new hypnotic belonging to the imidazopyridine class, were studied over a 180-day period in 96 patients with sleep disorders. The treatment was continued for a further 180 days by 49 of these patients. Follow-up information from 21 patients who discontinued treatment after 180 days showed no rebound insomnia or withdrawal signs. Efficacy of treatment with respect to reduction of sleep onset latency and number of nocturnal wakenings, and improvement in duration of sleep, quality of sleep and morning wakenings was found in nearly 90% of patients and was maintained in those patients who continued treatment for 360 days. This efficacy was achieved with a stable percentage of patients receiving 10 mg/day and 20 mg/day zolpidem from day 30 to the final visit. Zolpidem, therefore, has been shown to be an effective and safe hypnotic, and to be devoid of rebound and withdrawal effects.

La sécurité d'utilisation et l'efficacité du 10 ou 20 mg par jour de zolpidem, un nouvel hypnotique appartenant à la classe des imidazopyridines, ont été étudiées sur une période de 180 jours chez 96 patients souffrant de troubles du sommeil. Le traitement s'est poursuivi pendant 180 jours supplémentaires chez 49 de ces patients. Le suivi de 21 patients ayant cessé le traitement au bout de 180 jours n'a montré ni rebond d'insomnie, ni syndrome de sevrage. L'efficacité du traitement se mesure par la reduction du temp d'endormissement et le nombre de réveils noctures, ainsi que l'amélioration de la durée du sommeil, de la qualité du sommeil et du réveil au matin ont été retrouvés chez près de 90% des patients; ces effets se sont maintenus chez les patients qui ont poursuivi le traitement pendant 360 jours. Cette efficacité a été obtenue pour un pourcentage assez constant de patients qui ont reçu 10 mg par jour de zolpidem, puis 20 mg par jour du 30 ème jour à la fin du traitement. Pour ces raisons, le zolpidem, s'est donc révélé être un hypnotique efficace et sûr, dépourvu d'effets de rebond et de sevrage.
Effect of a Gel Formulation of Sucralfate on Gastric Microcirculation
Authors: Guslandi M , Sorghi M , Foppa A , Braga PC , Tittobello A
Published: January 2017

Dyspeptic patients ( n = 12) with endoscopic signs of chronic gastritis were treated orally for 28 days with a new gel formulation of sucralfate at a dose of 1 g twice daily. Before and after treatment, gastric blood flow was assessed during endoscopy by means of laser Doppler flowmetry. The sucralfate gel promoted a significant increase ( P < 0.001) in blood perfusion in all patients, restoring normal levels of gastric microcirculation. The results are consistent with observations in animals, suggesting that the mechanisms responsible for the gastroprotective and therapeutic properties of sucralfate include enhancement of mucosal blood flow.
Compliance as a Factor in the Development of Nitrate Tolerance: A Patient Investigation
Authors: Löfdahl P
Published: January 2017

Telephone interviews were conducted to establish the prescribing instructions given by experienced physicians to patients with angina pectoris treated with long-acting nitrates. In addition, the times of day when doses were taken were recorded. The aim of the study was to determine whether or not an asymmetric dosing regimen was being followed by the patients. The majority (62.7%) of patients were being treated with 5-isosorbide mononitrate taken orally twice daily. All but two took the correct number of tablets, but more than 50% of these patients were not taking the second tablet at the correct time to achieve the recommended 6 − 8-h period during which the plasma nitrate concentration was sufficiently low to avoid nitrate tolerance. Possible explanations for the incorrect use of the prescribed drug may be that the patients did not understand the physician's instructions and did not appreciate the importance of rigidly adhering to these instructions. A more satisfactory approach, with improved patient compliance, may be a once-daily dosing regimen.
A Comparison of the Electroencephalographic Spectra Modifications Induced by Diazepam and by Hydroxyzine
Authors: Pechadre J C , Beudin P , Trolese JF , Gabet J Y , Eschalier A
Published: January 2017

A double-blind, randomized controlled trial using an electroencephalograph computerized analysis and cartography was carried out to investigate the spectral modifications induced by diazepam and by hydroxyzine. Without monitoring response to stimulation, the spectra found for diazepam and for hydroxyzine were qualitatively very similar, showing increase of the slow waves, reduction of the α rhythm and accentuation of the β1 rhythms. These traces suggested strongly that both drugs had produced a sedative, anti-anxiety effect. The intensity of the effect produced by 50 mg of hydroxyzine appeared to be less than that produced by 10 mg diazepam. After monitoring response to stimulation, the spectra were modified and the reactivity of the two drugs differed with regard to the slow δ, θ and α1 frequency bands. It was possible to distinguish between the sedative and anti-anxiety effects of both diazepam and hydroxyzine. Even if the two drugs had some similar effects, the mode of action in the central nervous system was certainly different, as can be seen from the characteristics of distribution of the slow waves, their reactivity and, with regard to frequency, the fluctuation of the dominant frequency of rapid rhythms.
Rifamycin SV Administered by Intra-Articular Infiltrations Shows Disease Modifying Activity in Patients with Pauci- or Polyarticular Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Caruso I , Principi N , D'Urbino G , Santandrea S , Boccassini L , Montrone F , Puttini P C Sarzi , Bombaci A , Bozzato A , Azzolini V , Acqua D Dell‘
Published: January 2017

The therapeutic activity of rifamycin SV administered by the intra-articular route was evaluated in 52 children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (oligopolyarthritis). Each active joint was injected once a week for 10 weeks; thereafter patients were followed for 3 – 48 months. The number of active joints and joints with limitation of motion, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein improved significantly at the end of the treatment cycle, with progressive improvement during the subsequent period of observation. At 48-month of follow-up, 78% of joints did not present signs of inflammation; and 66% of joints showed no functional limitations. Joints without radiological lesions at baseline and large joints responded best to the rifamycin treatment. Persistent knee effusions were reabsorbed completely in most cases during the treatment and within the first 6 months of follow-up. Recurrences of synovitis were observed in 7% of joints. De novo radiological lesions in initially undamaged joints occurred during the second year of follow-up in only 10% of patients. At 24 months, 62% of patients with oligoarthritis and 24% with polyarthritis showed complete remission in all affected joints and recovered movement in all those joints which had shown limitations at baseline. There was also a normalization of inflammatory indexes (ESR, C-reactive protein) and regression of general features of disease. Further long term studies are now required to confirm these promising preliminary results.
Effect of an α-Glucosidase Inhibitor on Intestinal Fermentation and Faecal Lipids in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Nakamura T , Takebe K , Kudoh K , Terada A , Tandoh Y , Arai Y , Yamada N , Ishii M , Kikuchi H
Published: January 2017

Eight non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients, in whom oral hypoglycaemic agents were not effective, were treated with an α-glucosidase inhibitor, AO-128 (0.9 mg/day) for 6 months. After 6 months of treatment there was a statistically significant decrease in the blood glucose level 1 and 2 h postprandially. The 2 h blood glucose level was also significantly reduced after 2 months' treatment. The insulin and HbAlC levels after 2 and 6 months' treatment were lower than those before administration. Faecal weight, the frequency of bowel movements, the ratio of hydroxy fatty acids to total fatty acids, and faecal short-chain carboxylic acid content were all increased significantly during treatment. The initially hard stools became normal or soft, although no actual diarrhoea developed. Both faecal bile-acid excretion and the ratio of primary bile acids to total bile acids were increased significantly after 2 months, but they showed some recovery towards the pretreatment levels after 6 months' treatment. There was no distinct change in neutral sterol and fatty acid excretion. Breath hydrogen excretion showed a slight increase after treatment. These results suggest that intestinal fermentation was promoted and the intestinal transit time was shortened by AO-128 administration.
A Comparison of the Serum Concentration Time-Curves of Amikacin-Administered Patients before and after Open Heart Surgery
Authors: Guven H , Oto O , Acikel U , Gidener S , Apaydin S , Silistrel E , Gelal A
Published: January 2017

The effects of open heart surgery on amikacin concentration time-curves were investigated in eight patients who were scheduled for open heart surgery at a Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Department. A 500 mg single dose of amikacin was administered parenterally to the volunteers pre- and postoperatively and the serum concentration time-curves were compared. Serum amikacin levels after pre-operative intramuscular (IM) administration did not reach therapeutic values. By comparison, preoperative and postoperative IM or intravenously (IV) administration resulted in therapeutic serum amikacin levels. It was concluded that IM administration preoperatively was not appropriate. Serum levels of amikacin were also shown to fall below therapeutic values 8 h after administration. It is recommended that dosing intervals with amikacin should not exceed 8 h.
An Open Study of Self-Administration of Subcutaneous Sumatriptan to Treat Successive Attacks of Acute Migraine
Authors: Monteiro P ,   The Portuguese Sumatriptan Auto-Injector Study Group
Published: January 2017

The efficacy and safety of single doses of 6 mg sumatriptan, self-administered subcutaneously by patients using an auto-injector, for the acute treatment of up to three successive attacks of migraine was investigated in a multicentre, open, uncontrolled study in which 178 patients were enrolled. At attack 1, there was an improvement in headache (from severe or moderate to mild or no headache) in 74% of patients at 1 h, and in 82% at 2 h. The incidence of symptoms associated with migraine was decreased after sumatriptan injection. Nausea, vomiting and photo/phonophobia were reported by 72, 54, and 85% of patients, respectively, before the injection to treat attack 1, but by only 22, 12 and 27%, respectively, 2 h after the injection. Migraine recurred within 24 h in 27% of patients, but in 89% of patients was effectively treated with a further dose of 6 mg sumatriptan. Results for attacks 2 and 3 were similar. About 40% of patients experienced at least one adverse event; most of these were mild or moderate in intensity and were transient. It is concluded that 6 mg sumatriptan, self-administered using an auto-injector, is an effective and well tolerated treatment for migraine. Sumatriptan was as effective at attack 3 as at attack 1, and there was no evidence of a change in the incidence or the nature of adverse events with successive uses of the drug.
An Open Study of Procaine Penicillin G, Clavulanate-Potentiated Amoxycillin and Probenecid in the Treatment of Acute Gonorrhoea
Authors: Ekwere P D
Published: January 2017

In an open study 55 patients presenting with acute gonorrhoea were given 4.8 mega units procaine penicillin G, intramuscularly, and oral probenecid (1 g) plus one 375-mg tablet clavulanate-potentiated amoxycillin orally. Before this treatment, 53 patients (96.4%) had presented with a purulent discharge, and dysuria was present in 47 patients (85.5%). The presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was confirmed by bacterial culture in 54 patients (98.2%). The majority of pathogens (92.5%) were penicillin resistant. On day 3 after treatment, dysuria was absent in 53 patients (96.4%) and there was no discharge in 40 cases (72.7%). N. gonorrhoeae was eradicated in 53 patients (96.4%). Two further patients were bacteriologically cured, but were suffering from post-gonococcal urethritis. The patients in whom discharge was still apparent were further assessed on day 7; discharge was resolved or resolving in all but one patient. There was one treatment failure. No adverse reactions were reported.
Factors Related to the Development and Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Okada S , Ichiki K , Tanokuchi S , Hamada H , Matsuo N , Ota Z
Published: January 2017

This study was intended to clarify the factors associated with the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients with Type 2 diabetes. A total of 107 patients with Type 2 diabetes underwent fundoscopic examination by an ophthalmologist, and the factors that might be associated with the severity of retinopathy were investigated. Analysis of variance and the χ2 test were performed to determine whether 22 separate factors were associated with the severity of diabetic retinopathy. There were significant associations between retinopathy and duration of disease, systolic blood pressure, urinary albumin index, and blood urea nitrogen. Multiple regression analysis with retinopathy as the criterion variable and 20 other factors as explanatory variables revealed that, of those explanatory variables showing statistical significance, the strongest associations were with duration of disease and type of diabetic therapy, in that order. The χ2 test also revealed significant associations between retinopathy and both the type of diabetic therapy and the use of anti-hypertensive therapy. The results suggest that the duration of illness and the type of diabetic therapy are strongly related to the development and progression of retinopathy in patients with Type 2 diabetes. These findings suggest that insulin deficiency in patients with Type 2 diabetes should be corrected as early and as vigorously as possible, and that modification of daily activities to achieve a more nearly non-diabetic state should be instituted first, with supplementary drug therapy added as required.
Targeting Immunotherapy using the Avidin–Biotin System for a Human Colon Adenocarcinoma In Vitro
Authors: Nakaki M , Takikawa H , Yamanaka M
Published: January 2017

A new method of targeting immunotherapy using the avidin–biotin system in vitro was investigated. Both an anti-carcinoembryonic antigen monoclonal antibody (anti-CEA MAb) and an anti-cancer drug, neocarzinostatin (NCS), were biotinylated. A human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (LoVo) was immunized with biotinylated anti-CEA MAb; avidin was added, and the cell line was incubated with various concentrations of biotinylated NCS for either 72 h or 7 min. In the incubation for 72 h, the IC50 was similar (≈0.45 μg/ml) for biotinylated NCS for LoVo cells immunized with biotinylated anti-CEA MAb and those without immunization. In the incubation for 7 min, the IC50 (concentration producing 50% cytotoxicity) of biotinylated NCS for LoVo cells immunized with biotinylated anti-CEA MAb (0.35 μg/ml) was five times less than that of non-immunized LoVo cells (1.8 μg/ml). Thus the present system has the potential to reduce the dosage of anti-cancer drugs needed, and this strategy seems likely to be a valuable clinical tool in targeting immunotherapy.
Citalopram Causes No Significant Alterations in Plasma Neuroleptic Levels in Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Syvälahti EKG , Taiminen T , Saarijärvt S , Lehto H , Niemi H , Ahola V , Dahl M-L , Salokangas RKR
Published: January 2017

Steady-state plasma concentrations of commonly used neuroleptic drugs were measured in 90 schizophrenic patients before and after adding placebo or citalopram (40 mg/day) to their treatment regimen. Plasma concentrations of citalopram and its main metabolite, desmethylcitalopram, were also measured. In addition, patients with exceptionally high neuroleptic levels or an increase in adverse effects during the 12-week study period were evaluated for their debrisoquine/sparteine hydroxylase (CYP2D6) genotype, an enzyme responsible for oxidative metabolism of several neuroleptics and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors. There were no significant changes in plasma concentrations of haloperidol, chlorpromazine, zuclopenthixol, levomepromazine, thioridazine or perphenazine during the study. Plasma concentrations of citalopram and desmethylcitalopram were well within the levels reported previously with monotherapy, and remained stable throughout the study. None of the 15 patients analysed for the CYP2D6 genotype was a poor metabolizer. It is concluded that clinically important pharmacokinetic drug interactions do not play a crucial role when citalopram is used as an augmentation therapy in neuroleptic-treated schizophrenic patients.
Efficacy of γ-Linolenic Acid in the Treatment of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Andreassi M , Forleo P , Dilohjo A , Masci S , Arate G , Amerio P
Published: January 2017

Of 60 patients with atopic dermatitis (30 males and 30 females, 15–30 years old) 30 were treated with γ-linolenic acid of (C18:3 n-6) at a dosage of 274 mg twice a day; the other 30 patients were given placebo. The patients were treated for 12 weeks, during which their symptoms were assessed on a linear scale both by a dermatologist and by themselves every 4 weeks. The patients who received γ-linolenic acid, showed gradual improvements in pruritus, erythema, vesiculation and oozing, which were statistically significant compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Only one patient had presented with scaling at the beginning of the study and this symptom appeared to be less influenced by the effects of γ-linolenic acid. The assessments of symptoms made by the dermatologist were generally consistent with those made by the patients themselves, γ-linolenic acid was found to be effective and without side-effects for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Dietary Calcium and Mineral/Vitamin Supplementation: A Controversial Problem
Authors: Celotti F , Bignamini A
Published: January 2017

There is a consensus that adequate calcium intake during bone development, and possibly in adulthood and senescence, helps to prevent bone resorption and osteoporosis. The uptake of dietary calcium should be sufficient to maintain both normal serum calcium concentrations and parathyroid hormone levels in the low normal range throughout the day, otherwise, increased bone resorption occurs. Calcium intake varies with race and with environmental and dietary conditions. Estimating the appropriate amount of calcium to be added to dietary sources for an optimal supplementation regimen is therefore difficult. Few intervention studies have evaluated the dose-effect relationship for calcium supplementation conclusively. The mechanisms regulating fractional calcium absorption as a function of intake suggest that very high daily doses are probably useless. They may be unsafe in the long term because of the risks of hypercalciuria and kidney stones, and of an imbalance in the ratio of calcium to magnesium. Concomitant supplementation with limited amounts of magnesium may reduce this risk and improve mineralization. Dietary intake is 500 − 600 mg/day in most studies, making 400 mg/day an appropriate supplementary dose for most premenopausal women (RDA 1000 mg/day). After the menopause and during lactation (RDA 1200 − 1500 mg/day), 800 mg/day is probably appropriate, particularly if low doses of vitamin D are taken concomitantly.
Pyogenic Infectious Spondylitis in a Patient with Diabetes: Case Report
Authors: Yamagishi S , Yokoyama-Ohta M
Published: January 2017

A case of pyogenic infectious spondylitis associated with diabetes was reported. The patient experienced focal back pain 2 weeks after amputation of her left foot due to diabetic gangrene. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine revealed decreased T1-weighted signals of Th11 and Th12 vertebral bodies and prevertebral masses, and these lesions were also detected as high signal intensities in T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. The images were consistent with a diagnosis of pyogenic infectious spondylitis and the patient responded to treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Percutaneous drainage of the abscesses was also needed. Early magnetic resonance imaging examination was particularly helpful in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of this rare disorder.
Acute Effects of Griseofulvin on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Warfarin in Rats
Authors: Matsumura Y , Yokota M , Yoshioka H , Shibata S , Ida S , Takiguchi Y
Published: January 2017

It has been reported that prothrombin time (PT), which is prolonged by warfarin, is reduced when patients on warfarin also take griseofulvin repeatedly. We investigated the cause of the drug interaction and the initial effects of griseofulvin on warfarin pharmacokinetics. Total cytochrome P-450, and the activities of aminopyrine N-demethylase, aniline p-hydroxylase and 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase, after repeated administration of griseofulvin (100 mg/kg orally daily for 5 days) were examined. Acute effects of single doses of griseofulvin (100 mg/kg) on coagulation activity (prothrombin time) and warfarin pharmacokinetics after administration of warfarin were also studied. Repeated administration of griseofulvin induced warfarin-metabolizing enzymes. In contrast, a single administration of griseofulvin increased prothrombin time and serum warfarin concentrations. The activity of a warfarin-metabolizing enzyme (7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase) was reduced when griseofulvin was added to rat liver microsomes. The results suggest that reduced warfarin action after repeated administration of griseofulvin may be due to induction of warfarin-metabolizing enzymes, but that there is also an initial increase in warfarin action.
The Pathologic Anatomy of Lead Poisoning in Dogs
Authors: Zook B. C.
Published: January 2017

Thirty-two dogs diagnosed as having lead poisoning were studied postmortem. Enlarged, pale staining nuclei of renal proximal tubular cells and hepatocytes were present in all affected dogs and frequently contained acid-fast inclusions. Bone changes consisting of persistent, thick cartilaginous trabeculae rimmed with bone caused radiopaque bands in the metaphyses of eight immature dogs. Brain lesions were characterized by vascular damage. Distended arterioles and capillaries were lined with swollen or necrotic endothelium and were often surrounded by hemorrhage and edema. These changes were associated with laminar necrosis in the cerebral cortex. Proliferation of new capillaries and gliosis occurred in dogs with chronic encephalopathies. Other changes included hyperplasia of bone marrow, metarubricytes in blood vessels, necrosis of occasional striated muscle fibers, decreased numbers of sperm and ovarian follicles, and peripheral neuropathy.
Experimental Peracute Colibacillosis: Gastrointestinal Lesions in Gnotobiotic Piglets
Authors: Meyer R. C. , Simon J.
Published: January 2017

Three-day-old, hysterectomy-derived germ-free piglets were challenged with an enteropathogenic strain of Escherichia coli. This particular strain (serotype 08:K87, K88ac:H19) was highly pathogenic and produced clinical signs of enteric colibacillosis. The major lesions consisted of marked gastric dilation and extensive congestion involving the greater curvature of the fundus. The gastrointestinal lesions were considered to be the direct result of the active infection by this strain. No similar condition was observed in similar experiments with 16 other E. coli serotypes in neonatal germ-free swine.
Persistent Truncus Arteriosus in a Dog
Authors: Chen H. C. , Bussian P. , Whitehead J. E.
Published: January 2017

A 5-week-old male mixed terrier with persistent truncus arteriosus had a grade IV cardiac murmur. Cardiovascular anomalies noted at necropsy included ventricular septal defect in addition to complete persistent truncus arteriosus. The latter originated from the right ventricle and served as an aorta, also providing aortic branches that included a modified bronchial artery. This malformation closely resembled type IV persistent truncus arteriosus in humans, however, anatomically it should be classified as type I because of a patent small hypoplastic pulmonary artery.
Pneumonia Associated with Inhaled Plant Material in Swine
Authors: Corner A. H. , Jericho K. W. F.
Published: January 2017

A high incidence of foreign-body pneumonia was found in an institutional swine herd. Foreign material of plant origin was found in 40 of 68 lungs. Most of the foreign matter was of feed origin but four particles of wood were demonstrated. Numerous particles up to 50 μm wide were found in alveoli, and particles as large as 300 μm were found in bronchioles. Lungs of four control animals were used to study the histological reaction to the inhaled foreign bodies. Polymorphonuclear leucocytes, macrophages, and giant cells were the principal cell types associated with the plant particles. Hyperplasia and destruction of respiratory epithelium and lymphoreticular proliferation were also noted.
Generalized Equine Cutaneous Mastocytosis
Authors: Cheville N. F. , Prasse K. , van der Maaten M. , Boothe A. D.
Published: January 2017

A newborn foal developed generalized cutaneous mastocytosis characterized by multiple elevated nodules of mast cells in skin and basophil hyperplasia in bone marrow. Skin lesions began as small aggregates of mast cells that progressively enlarged, ulcerated, and regressed spontaneously. Eosinophil infiltration, collagen necrosis, and fibroplasia were characteristic of advanced lesions. Many new lesions developed during the first month of life but numbers progressively diminished. Large numbers of mast cells were present in biopsies of lymph node, spleen and bone marrow. Discrete aggregates of mast cells were present in the bone marrow postmortem but no other significant change was seen. Mast cells contained large amounts of histamine but little serotonin. Ultrastructurally, their cytoplasmic granules were chiefly granular with few dense forms. In cell culture, mast cells from early lesions maintained mitotic activity through 14 passages. Cells obtained from older lesions were rapidly overgrown with fibroblasts. An equine herpesvirus isolated from cultures of cutaneous mast cell lesions and of spleen was not thought to be related to the disease.
Cryptosporidiosis in Two Juvenile Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Kovatch R. M. , White J. D.
Published: January 2017

A coccidium of the genus Cryptosporidium, previously unreported in simians, was observed in two juvenile Rhesus monkeys. The organisms were restricted in one to the epithelium of the common bile, intrahepatic and pancreatic ducts and gall bladder and in the other to the epithelium of the small and large intestines. Epithelial hyperplasia and mucosal inflammation were common histologic features. Small bulbous enlargements that might be misinterpreted as cryptosporidia projected from the epithelial cells of some gall bladders of noninfected monkeys.
Malignant Teratoid Medulloepithelioma in a Dog
Authors: Lahav M. , Albert D. M. , Kircher C. H. , Percy D. H.
Published: January 2017

A malignant teratoid medulloepithelioma that arose from the ciliary body was found in an adult Beagle. The anterior part contained relatively well-differentiated tumor cells, cartilage, and ganglion cells. These structures were interpreted as teratoid formations derived from the embryonic anlage of the medullary epithelium. The more posterior part was highly anaplastic and invasive. A transitional area contained neural rosettes of the Flexner-Wintersteiner type. This tumor is rare in both man and animals.
Neoplasms of Mesenchymal Origin in the Spinal Cord and Nerve Roots of Three Dogs
Authors: Vandevelde M. , Higgins R. J. , Greene C. E.
Published: January 2017

Clinicopathological findings of three different neoplastic conditions involving the spinal cord and nerve roots in three dogs are described. One sarcomatous intramedullary tumor closely associated with the vasculature was classified as a reticulum cell sarcoma of the spinal cord. The second case had massive and widespread neoplastic proliferation of reticulohistiocytic cells around the perineurinal vessels of many spinal nerve roots. The process was classified as a primary neoplastic reticulosis of the spinal roots. Multiple highly malignant tumors, infiltrating the spinal cord were found in one thoracic and several lumbosacral spinal nerve roots in the third case. These were considered to be anaplastic neurofibrosarcomas because of high collagen content, intact nerve fibers, whorl formation, and the tendency to palisade in some areas.
Visceral Lesions in Raccoons Naturally Infected with Heterobilharzia americana
Authors: Bartsch R. C. , Ward B. C.
Published: January 2017

Three free-ranging raccoons caught in southeastern Florida were found to be infected by Heterobilharzia americana. The livers were firm with rough surfaces and stellate patterns of periportal fibrosis. The portal tracts had excessive mature fibrous connective tissue and occasional ovum and necrotic fluke granulomas. There were also ovum granulomas with concomitant lesions in small and large intestine, pancreas, and lung. Numerous other parasites were seen.
Das epidermoide Karzinom der Bronchialdrüsen bei Hund und Katze
Authors: Stünzi H.
Published: January 2017

In seven cats and four dogs of different ages, an epidermoid pulmonary carcinoma has been described. This tumour originates from the orifices or the proximal sections of the ducts of the bronchial glands. The carcinoma, which usually shows no keratinization, penetrates the bronchial mucosa, submucosa and the peribronchial tissue. There is no mucus. Occasionally in the peribronchial neoplastic areas there are adenoid formations, comparable to the combined carcinoma of the WHO classification of lung tumours. Metastases have been restricted to the bronchial lymph nodes.
Role of Age and Sex in Chronic Thyroiditis in Rats Fed 3'-Methyl-4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene
Authors: Reuber M. D. , Glover E. L.
Published: January 2017

Inbred male and female Buffalo strain rats were started at 4, 8, 12, 24, or 52 weeks of age on 0.06% 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene in a low-protein, choline-deficient diet. Eight-week-old males and females were the most susceptible to the development of chronic thyroiditis, but females were more susceptible than the males. Female rats of other ages developed a slightly higher incidence of thyroiditis than the male rats, the difference being most noticeable for rats 12 weeks old.
Histology of Air Sac Lesions Induced in Chickens by Contact Exposure to Mycoplasma synoviae
Authors: Fletcher O. J. , Anderson D. P. , Kleven S. H.
Published: January 2017

Chickens were housed when 1 day old with chickens experimentally infected with Mycoplasma synoviae. Air sacs from 16 of the 2-week-old and eight of the 3-week-old contact-exposed chickens were given gross lesion scores and embedded in glycol methacrylate for slide preparation. Histologic lesions in air sacs with gross scores of 0–2 were mild edema resulting in a two to eightfold increase in air sac thickness, capillary proliferation, and exudate consisting largely of heterophils and necrotic debris. Histologic lesions in air sacs with gross scores of 3 and 4 were marked hyperplasia of epithelial cells and diffuse infiltration of the air sac connective tissue by mononuclear cells. Nine of 10 air sacs with gross scores of 0 had no histologic evidence of inflammation. The most severe histologic lesions were in those air sacs with gross scores of 4. The glycol methacrylate procedure resulted in 2-μm sections with excellent cellular detail.
Placental Lesions in Habitually Aborting Cats
Authors: Huxtable C. R. , Duff B. C. , Bennett A. M. , Love D. N. , Butcher D. R.
Published: January 2017

An ovariohysterectomy was done on five female cats with a history of habitual abortion in the 3rd to 4th week of pregnancy and the foetuses and placentas examined. Histologic and electron microscopic examination showed multifocal placental necrosis which was deduced to begin in the syncytial trophoblastic cells and to extend to all the cells of the labyrinth. This lesion was followed by foetal autolysis. No bacterial, viral or mycoplasmal agents could be incriminated in the disease.
Morphology of Spontaneous Brain Tumors in the Rat
Authors: Dagle G. E. , Zwicker G. M. , Renne R. A.
Published: January 2017

In lifespan studies of 2,242 rats of three strains, 32 neoplasms were identified in brain, meninges and pineal gland. They were astrocytoma (16 Wistar, three Sprague-Dawley), ependymoma (four Osborne-Mendel), meningioma (two Osborne-Mendel, one Wistar), pinealoma (two Osborne-Mendel), reticulosis (two Wistar), oligodendroglioma (one Wistar), and gliomatosis (one Wistar).
Canine Granulomatous Meningoencephalomyelitis
Authors: Cordy D. R.
Published: January 2017

In 27 adult dogs with a distinctive chronic granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis there were locomotor problems, cervical meningitis and blindness. Lesions were widespread, but most severe in cerebral and cerebellar white substance and in the cervical spinal cord. Lesions were characterized by the development of epithelioid cell granulomas arising from mononuclear cuffs. There were secondary edema and necrosis in severe cases and eventual fibroplastic repair in chronic cases. The cause is unknown.