Sample records for duloxetine h

  1. Duloxetine reduces morphine requirements after knee replacement surgery.

    PubMed

    Ho, K-Y; Tay, W; Yeo, M-C; Liu, H; Yeo, S-J; Chia, S-L; Lo, N-N

    2010-09-01

    Multimodal analgesia is advocated for perioperative pain management to reduce opioid use and its associated adverse effects. Serotonin and norepinephrine are involved in the modulation of endogenous analgesic mechanisms via descending inhibitory pain pathways in the brain and spinal cord. An increase in serotonin and norepinephrine may increase inhibition of nociceptive input and improve pain relief. Duloxetine, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in chronic pain conditions such as painful diabetic neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of duloxetine in reducing morphine requirements in patients after knee replacement surgery. Fifty patients received either two doses of oral duloxetine 60 mg (2 h before surgery and on first postoperative day) or placebo. All patients received patient-controlled analgesia with morphine for 48 h after operation. Pain and adverse effects were assessed at 0.5, 1, 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery on an 11-point numeric rating scale. Twenty-three patients in the duloxetine group and 24 patients in the placebo group completed the study. Morphine requirements during the 48 h after surgery were significantly lower in the duloxetine group [19.5 mg, standard deviation (sd) 14.5 mg] compared with the placebo group (30.3 mg, sd 18.1 mg) (P=0.017). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in pain scores (at rest and on movement) or in adverse effects. Perioperative administration of duloxetine reduced postoperative morphine requirements during the first 48 h after knee replacement surgery, without significant adverse effects.

  2. Study on fluorescence characteristics of duloxetine hydrochloride

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Xiangping; Du, Yingxiang; Wu, Xiulan

    2008-12-01

    The fluorescence characteristics of duloxetine hydrochloride are studied in this paper. The fluorescence emission spectra of duloxetine demonstrate that intramolecular charge-transfer takes place between thiophene ring and napthalenyloxy group upon irradiation. The effects of excitation light, solvent system, variation of solution pH value, metal ions and vitamin C on the fluorescence spectra of duloxetine hydrochloride are elucidated, respectively. A spectrofluorometric method of quantitative determination of duloxetine in dosage form is reported for the first time, the linear range is 7.14 × 10 -8 mol/L to 1.43 × 10 -5 mol/L, the linear correlation coefficient r is equal to 0.9997, and the detection limit is 3.5 × 10 -8 mol/L. The accuracy and the precision are satisfactory.

  3. Duloxetine: a review of its use in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.

    PubMed

    Carter, Natalie J; McCormack, Paul L

    2009-01-01

    Duloxetine (Cymbalta(R)) is a potent serotonin and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) in the CNS. It is indicated for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as other indications. In patients with GAD of at least moderate severity, oral duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily was effective with regard to improvement from baseline in assessments of anxiety and functional impairment, and numerous other clinical endpoints. Longer-term duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily also demonstrated efficacy in preventing or delaying relapse in responders among patients with GAD. In addition, duloxetine was generally well tolerated, with most adverse events being of mild to moderate severity in patients with GAD in short- and longer-term trials. Additional comparative and pharmacoeconomic studies are required to position duloxetine among other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs. However, available clinical data, and current treatment guidelines, indicate that duloxetine is an effective first-line treatment option for the management of GAD. Duloxetine is a potent and selective inhibitor of serotonin and noradrenaline transporters, and a weak inhibitor of dopamine transporters. It has a low affinity for neuronal receptors, such as alpha(1)- and alpha(2)-adrenergic, dopamine D(2), histamine H(1), muscarinic, opioid and serotonin receptors, as well as ion channel binding sites and other neurotransmitter transporters, such as choline and GABA transporters. It does not inhibit monoamine oxidase types A or B. The pharmacokinetics of duloxetine in healthy volunteers were dose proportional over the range of 40-120 mg once daily. Steady state was typically reached by day 3 of administration. Duloxetine may be administered without regard to food or time of day. Duloxetine is highly protein bound and is widely distributed throughout tissues. It is rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2 and 2D6, and its numerous metabolites, which are inactive, are mainly excreted in the urine. The mean elimination half-life of duloxetine is approximately 12 hours. Duloxetine is a substrate for CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 and a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6. Concomitant use of duloxetine and potent CYP1A2 inhibitors should be avoided and duloxetine should be used with caution in patients receiving drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP2D6, particularly those with a narrow therapeutic index. Duloxetine was effective in the short-term treatment of patients with primary GAD of at least moderate severity. In four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, phase III trials, duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily for 9 or 10 weeks was significantly more effective than placebo with regard to the primary endpoint of mean change in Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) total score from baseline to study endpoint. In addition, all other endpoints were generally improved from baseline to a greater extent with duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily than with placebo. Duloxetine also improved patient role functioning (assessed using Sheehan Disability Scale global impairment functioning scores), health-related quality of life and patient well-being compared with placebo. Duloxetine was effective in patients with GAD who were aged >/=65 years. Pooled results of data from the two short-term efficacy trials that also included an active comparator arm showed that the mean change in HAM-A scores with duloxetine relative to placebo were of the same magnitude as those with venlafaxine extended release versus placebo. Duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily was also more effective than placebo in preventing or delaying relapse in responders to duloxetine in a longer-term study. In this study, patients with GAD received duloxetine during a 26-week, open-label, acute treatment phase and responders were then randomized to continue on duloxetine or receive placebo during a 26-week, double-blind, continuation phase. Time to relapse was significantly longer in duloxetine recipients than in placebo recipients. In addition, significantly fewer duloxetine recipients than placebo recipients relapsed during the double-blind phase of the trial and more duloxetine recipients achieved remission. Short- (9-10 weeks) and longer-term (52 weeks) treatment with duloxetine 60-120 mg once daily was generally well tolerated in patients with GAD, with the majority of adverse events being of mild to moderate severity. Nausea, dry mouth, headache, constipation, dizziness and fatigue were among the most common treatment-emergent adverse events. The adverse event profile of duloxetine did not differ with dose or treatment duration. Significantly more patients receiving short-term duloxetine than placebo discontinued treatment because of an adverse event, with nausea being the only event that resulted in significantly more treatment discontinuations in duloxetine recipients than in placebo recipients. Serious adverse events were uncommon with both short- and longer-term duloxetine treatment. Two episodes of attempted suicide and one episode of completed suicide occurred in duloxetine recipients during the 24-week open-label phase of a longer-term trial. No deaths or suicides were reported in any of the short-term trials. Discontinuation-emergent adverse events, most commonly nausea and dizziness, occurred in up to one-third of duloxetine recipients in the short-term trials.

  4. Validated spectrophotometric method for the determination, spectroscopic characterization and thermal structural analysis of duloxetine with 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulphonate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ulu, Sevgi Tatar; Elmali, Fikriye Tuncel

    2012-03-01

    A novel, selective, sensitive and simple spectrophotometric method was developed and validated for the determination of the antidepressant duloxetine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical preparation. The method was based on the reaction of duloxetine hydrochloride with 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulphonate (NQS) in alkaline media to yield orange colored product. The formation of this complex was also confirmed by UV-visible, FTIR, 1H NMR, Mass spectra techniques and thermal analysis. This method was validated for various parameters according to ICH guidelines. Beer's law is obeyed in a range of 5.0-60 μg/mL at the maximum absorption wavelength of 480 nm. The detection limit is 0.99 μg/mL and the recovery rate is in a range of 98.10-99.57%. The proposed methods was validated and applied to the determination of duloxetine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical preparation. The results were statistically analyzed and compared to those of a reference UV spectrophotometric method.

  5. In vitro stability, potency, and dissolution of duloxetine enteric-coated pellets after exposure to applesauce, apple juice, and chocolate pudding.

    PubMed

    Wells, Kevin A; Losin, William G

    2008-07-01

    Difficulty swallowing is a common problem in the clinical setting, particularly in elderly patients, and can significantly affect an individual's ability to maintain a proper level of nutrition. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine if mixing duloxetine enteric-coated pellets in food substances is an acceptable alternative method for administering this oral formulation to patients with swallowing difficulties. To determine whether administration in food substances with varying pH values (applesauce and apple juice, pH = approximately 3.5; chocolate pudding, pH = approximately 5.5-6.0) affects the enteric coating of the formulation, duloxetine pellets (ie, the contents of a 20-mg duloxetine capsule) were exposed to applesauce, apple juice, and chocolate pudding at room temperature and tested in triplicate for potency and impurities; for dissolution, 6 replicates were tested. To assess product stability and integrity of the enteric coating, potency, impurities, and dissolution tests of the pellets were conducted and compared with pellets not exposed to food. The duloxetine pellets were extracted from the food material using a solution of 0.1 normal (N) hydrochloric acid (HCl) prepared from concentrated HCl (commercially available) and deionized water. For the potency and impurities tests, a 40:60 solution of acetonitrile and pH 8.0 phosphate buffer was used as the sample solvent to extract the active pharmaceutical ingredient from the formulation to prepare the samples for testing. The amount of active pharmaceutical ingredient released (in vitro dissolution) from the pellets after exposure to the food substances was determined using 2 media solutions, 0.1 N HCl followed by pH 6.8 phosphate buffer. Applesauce and chocolate pudding were selected as vehicles for oral administration, while apple juice was intended to be used as a wash for a nasogastric tube. Mean (SD) potency results for the 20-mg capsule strength were 20.256 (0.066), 20.222 (0.163), and 19.961 (0.668) mg/capsule for the comparator not exposed to food, the sample exposed to applesauce, and the sample exposed to apple juice, respectively. However, exposure to chocolate pudding altered the integrity of the pellet's enteric coating (mean [SD] potency results, 17.780 [1.605] mg/capsule). Results of impurities testing suggested that none of the test foods caused significant degradation of the drug product. Mean dissolution results found that after 2 hours in 0.1 N HCl, < or = 1% of duloxetine was released from the comparator and pellets exposed to applesauce and apple juice. However, the mean dissolution profile of the sample exposed to pudding reported near-total release (90%) after 2 hours in 0.1 N HCl during the gastric challenge portion of the dissolution test. Results from this study found that the enteric coating of duloxetine pellets mixed with applesauce or apple juice was not negatively affected. The pellets were stable at room temperature for < or = 2 hours and should quantitatively allow delivery of the full capsule dose, provided that the pellet integrity is maintained (ie, not crushed, chewed, or otherwise broken). Therefore, mixing duloxetine pellets with applesauce or apple juice appears to be an acceptable vehicle for administration. However, exposing the pellets to chocolate pudding damaged the pellets' enteric coating, suggesting that pudding may be an unacceptable vehicle for administration.

  6. Predictors of Treatment with Duloxetine or Venlafaxine XR among Adult Patients Treated for Depression in Primary Care Practices in the United Kingdom

    PubMed Central

    Shi, Nianwen; Durden, Emily; Torres, Amelito; Cao, Zhun; Happich, Michael

    2012-01-01

    Background. Knowledge about real-world use of duloxetine and venlafaxine XR to treat depression in the UK is limited. Aims. To identify predictors of duloxetine or venlafaxine XR initiation. Method. Adult depressed patients who initiated duloxetine or venlafaxine XR between January 1, 2006 and September 30, 2007 were identified in the UK's General Practice Research Database. Demographic and clinical predictors of treatment initiation with duloxetine and venlafaxine XR were identified using logistic regression. Results. Patients initiating duloxetine (n = 909) were 4 years older than venlafaxine XR recipients (n = 1286). Older age, preexisting unexplained pain, respiratory disease, and pre-period use of anticonvulsants, opioids, and antihyperlipidemics were associated with increased odds of initiating duloxetine compared to venlafaxine XR. Pre-period anxiety disorder was associated with decreased odds of receiving duloxetine. Conclusion. Initial treatment choice with duloxetine versus venlafaxine XR was primarily driven by patient-specific mental and medical health characteristics. General practitioners in the UK favor duloxetine over venlafaxine XR when pain conditions coexist with depression. PMID:22720149

  7. Duloxetine, Pregabalin, and Duloxetine Plus Gabapentin for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain Management in Patients With Inadequate Pain Response to Gabapentin: An Open-Label, Randomized, Noninferiority Comparison

    PubMed Central

    Tanenberg, Robert J.; Irving, Gordon A.; Risser, Richard C.; Ahl, Jonna; Robinson, Michael J.; Skljarevski, Vladimir; Malcolm, Sandra K.

    2011-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To determine whether duloxetine is noninferior to (as good as) pregabalin in the treatment of pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a 12-week, open-label study of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain who had been treated with gabapentin (≥900 mg/d) and had an inadequate response (defined as a daily pain score of ≥4 on a numerical rating scale [0-10 points]). The first patient was enrolled on September 28, 2006, and the last patient visit occurred on August 26, 2009. Patients were randomized to duloxetine monotherapy (n=138), pregabalin monotherapy (n=134), or a combination of duloxetine and gabapentin (n=135). The primary objective was a noninferiority comparison between duloxetine and pregabalin on improvement in the weekly mean of the diary-based daily pain score (0- to 10-point scale) at end point. Noninferiority would be declared if the mean improvement for duloxetine was no worse than the mean improvement for pregabalin, within statistical variability, by a margin of –0.8 unit. RESULTS: The mean change in the pain rating at end point was –2.6 for duloxetine and –2.1 for pregabalin. The 97.5% lower confidence limit was a –0.05 difference in means, establishing noninferiority. As to adverse effects, nausea, insomnia, hyperhidrosis, and decreased appetite were more frequent with duloxetine than pregabalin; insomnia, more frequent with duloxetine than duloxetine plus gabapentin; peripheral edema, more frequent with pregabalin than with duloxetine; and nausea, hyperhidrosis, decreased appetite, and vomiting, more frequent with duloxetine plus gabapentin than with pregabalin. CONCLUSION: Duloxetine was noninferior to pregabalin for the treatment of pain in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy who had an inadequate pain response to gabapentin. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00385671 PMID:21719618

  8. Do social functioning and symptoms improve with continuation antidepressant treatment of persistent depressive disorder? An observational study.

    PubMed

    Hellerstein, David J; Hunnicutt-Ferguson, Kallio; Stewart, Jonathan W; McGrath, Patrick J; Keller, Samantha; Peterson, Bradley S; Chen, Ying

    2017-03-01

    To determine efficacy of continued treatment with the serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine on symptom reduction and functional improvement in outpatients with dysthymia. Fifty outpatients with DSM-IV-TR diagnosed dysthymia who had participated in a 10 week double-blind, placebo-controlled study of duloxetine received open treatment for three months. Nineteen duloxetine responders continued duloxetine, 24 patients initially treated with placebo started open duloxetine treatment, and 7 duloxetine non-responders were treated with desvenlafaxine or bupropion, selected by clinician choice. Patients continuing duloxetine maintained symptom improvement, 84% meeting response and 63% remission criteria at week 22. Patients initially treated with placebo showed similarly high levels of response (83%) and remission (62%) at week 22, and most duloxetine non-responders subsequently responded to other antidepressants. Duloxetine-continuation patients improved modestly between weeks 10 and 22 on measures of social and cognitive functioning and temperament. Despite this improvement concurrently across several functional domains, 66.7% of patients continuing duloxetine remained in the impaired range of functioning according to the Social Adjustment Scale (SAS). Continued duloxetine treatment appears to be effective in maintaining symptom response in dysthymic disorder, and has positive effects on social functioning. However, the majority of patients do not show normalization of functioning, even when controlling for remission status. Additional treatments should be considered to target residual impairments in social functioning in mood remitted patients with persistent depressive disorder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. A double-blind efficacy and safety study of duloxetine fixed doses in children and adolescents with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Emslie, Graham J; Prakash, Apurva; Zhang, Qi; Pangallo, Beth A; Bangs, Mark E; March, John S

    2014-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of duloxetine fixed dose in the treatment of children (7-11 years) and adolescents (12-17 years) with major depressive disorder (MDD). Patients (n=463) in this 36 week study (10 week acute and 26 week extension treatment) received duloxetine 60 mg QD (n=108), duloxetine 30 mg QD (n=116), fluoxetine 20 mg QD (n=117, active control), or placebo (n=122). Measures included: Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R), treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Neither active drug (duloxetine or fluoxetine) separated significantly (p<0.05) from placebo on mean change from baseline to end-point (10 weeks) on the CDRS-R total score. Total TEAEs and discontinuation for AEs were significantly (p<0.05) higher only for the duloxetine 60 mg group versus the placebo group during acute treatment. No clinically significant electrocardiogram (ECG) or laboratory abnormalities were observed, and no completed suicides or deaths occurred during the study. A total of 7 (6.7%) duloxetine 60 mg, 6 (5.2%) duloxetine 30 mg, 9 (8.0%) fluoxetine, and 11 (9.4%) placebo patients had worsening of suicidal ideation from baseline during acute treatment. Of the patients with suicidal ideation at baseline, 13/16 (81%) duloxetine 60 mg, 16/17 (94%) duloxetine 30 mg, 11/16 (69%) fluoxetine, and 13/15 (87%) placebo had improvement in suicidal ideation at end-point during acute treatment. One fluoxetine, one placebo, and six duloxetine patients had treatment-emergent suicidal behavior during the 36 week study. Trial results were inconclusive, as neither the investigational drug (duloxetine) nor the active control (fluoxetine) separated from placebo on the CDRS-R at 10 weeks. No new duloxetine safety signals were identified relative to those seen in adults. Clinical Trial Registry Number ( www.ClinicalTrials.gov ): NCT00849693.

  10. Antidepressant behavioral effects of duloxetine and fluoxetine in the rat forced swimming test.

    PubMed

    Ciulla, Leandro; Menezes, Honório Sampaio; Bueno, Bárbara Beatriz Moreira; Schuh, Alexandre; Alves, Rafael José Vargas; Abegg, Milena Pacheco

    2007-01-01

    To compare the effects of the antidepressant drugs duloxetine and fluoxetine on depressive behaviors in rodents. Eighteen male Wistar rats were given systemic injections of duloxetine, fluoxetine, or saline prior to a Forced Swimming Test (FST). Immobility and number of stops were measured. Rats given injections of fluoxetine displayed significantly less immobility (p = 0.02) and fewer stops than the control group (p = 0.003). Duloxetine significantly reduced the number of stops (p = 0.003), but did not effect immobility (p = 0.48). Duloxetine and fluoxetine reduced depressive behaviors in the Forced FST. However, our findings suggest that fluoxetine is more effective than duloxetine.

  11. Enhancement of nootropic effect of duloxetine and bupropion by caffeine in mice.

    PubMed

    Kale, Pravin Popatrao; Addepalli, Veeranjaneyulu

    2015-01-01

    The existing evidence suggests an association between depression and memory impairment. The objective of present study was to assess the effect of low dose caffeine with duloxetine and bupropion on memory. Mice were divided randomly into seven groups. Intra-peritoneal treatment of normal saline (10 ml/kg), caffeine (10 mg/kg), duloxetine (10 mg/kg), bupropion alone (10 mg/kg), caffeine + duloxetine (5 mg/kg, each), caffeine + bupropion (5 mg/kg, each), and bupropion + duloxetine (5 mg/kg, each) were given to groups I-VII, respectively. Elevated plus maze was used to evaluate transfer latency (TL) and Morris water maze was used to estimate the time spent in target quadrant. Caffeine with duloxetine treated group was better than other combination treated groups in terms of a significant decrease in TL and increase in the time spent in target quadrant recorded. Combining lower dose of caffeine with duloxetine may enhance cognitive benefits than respective monotherapies.

  12. A Double-Blind Efficacy and Safety Study of Duloxetine Fixed Doses in Children and Adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder

    PubMed Central

    Emslie, Graham J.; Zhang, Qi; Pangallo, Beth A.; Bangs, Mark E.; March, John S.

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of duloxetine fixed dose in the treatment of children (7–11 years) and adolescents (12–17 years) with major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods: Patients (n=463) in this 36 week study (10 week acute and 26 week extension treatment) received duloxetine 60 mg QD (n=108), duloxetine 30 mg QD (n=116), fluoxetine 20 mg QD (n=117, active control), or placebo (n=122). Measures included: Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R), treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Results: Neither active drug (duloxetine or fluoxetine) separated significantly (p<0.05) from placebo on mean change from baseline to end-point (10 weeks) on the CDRS-R total score. Total TEAEs and discontinuation for AEs were significantly (p<0.05) higher only for the duloxetine 60 mg group versus the placebo group during acute treatment. No clinically significant electrocardiogram (ECG) or laboratory abnormalities were observed, and no completed suicides or deaths occurred during the study. A total of 7 (6.7%) duloxetine 60 mg, 6 (5.2%) duloxetine 30 mg, 9 (8.0%) fluoxetine, and 11 (9.4%) placebo patients had worsening of suicidal ideation from baseline during acute treatment. Of the patients with suicidal ideation at baseline, 13/16 (81%) duloxetine 60 mg, 16/17 (94%) duloxetine 30 mg, 11/16 (69%) fluoxetine, and 13/15 (87%) placebo had improvement in suicidal ideation at end-point during acute treatment. One fluoxetine, one placebo, and six duloxetine patients had treatment-emergent suicidal behavior during the 36 week study. Conclusions: Trial results were inconclusive, as neither the investigational drug (duloxetine) nor the active control (fluoxetine) separated from placebo on the CDRS-R at 10 weeks. No new duloxetine safety signals were identified relative to those seen in adults. Clinical Trial Registry Number (www.ClinicalTrials.gov): NCT00849693 PMID:24815533

  13. Cost-effectiveness of duloxetine: the Stress Urinary Incontinence Treatment (SUIT) study.

    PubMed

    Mihaylova, Borislava; Pitman, Richard; Tincello, Douglas; van der Vaart, Huub; Tunn, Ralf; Timlin, Louise; Quail, Deborah; Johns, Adam; Sculpher, Mark

    2010-08-01

    To assess the cost-effectiveness of duloxetine compared with conservative therapy in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Cost and outcome data were taken from the Stress Urinary Incontinence Treatment (SUIT) study, a 12-month, prospective, observational, naturalistic, multicenter, multicountry study. Costs were assessed in UK pound and outcomes in quality adjusted life years using responses to the EuroQol (EQ-5D); numbers of urine leaks were also estimated. Potential selection bias was countered using multivariate regression and propensity score analysis. Duloxetine alone, duloxetine in combination with conservative treatment, and conservative treatment alone were associated with roughly two fewer leaks per week compared with no treatment. Duloxetine alone and with conservative treatment for SUI were associated with incremental quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) of about 0.03 over a year compared with no treatment or with conservative treatment alone. Conservative treatment alone did not show an effect on QALYs. None of the interventions appeared to have marked impacts on costs over a year. Depending on the form of matching, duloxetine either dominated or had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) below pound900 per QALY gained compared with no treatment and with conservative treatment alone. Duloxetine plus conservative therapy had an ICER below pound5500 compared with no treatment or conservative treatment alone. Duloxetine compared with duloxetine plus conservative therapy showed similar outcomes but an additional cost for the combined intervention. Although the limitations of the use of SUIT's observational data for this purpose need to be acknowledged, the study suggests that initiating duloxetine therapy in SUI is a cost-effective treatment alternative.

  14. Duloxetine Inhibits Effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy") In Vitro and in Humans in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Laboratory Study

    PubMed Central

    Nicola, Valentina G.; Vischer, Nerina; Donzelli, Massimiliano; Krähenbühl, Stephan; Grouzmann, Eric; Huwyler, Jörg; Hoener, Marius C.; Liechti, Matthias E.

    2012-01-01

    This study assessed the effects of the serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) transporter inhibitor duloxetine on the effects of 3,4–methylenedioxy­methamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) in vitro and in 16 healthy subjects. The clinical study used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, four-session, crossover design. In vitro, duloxetine blocked the release of both 5-HT and NE by MDMA or by its metabolite 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine from transmitter-loaded human cells expressing the 5-HT or NE transporter. In humans, duloxetine inhibited the effects of MDMA including elevations in circulating NE, increases in blood pressure and heart rate, and the subjective drug effects. Duloxetine inhibited the pharmacodynamic response to MDMA despite an increase in duloxetine-associated elevations in plasma MDMA levels. The findings confirm the important role of MDMA-induced 5-HT and NE release in the psychotropic effects of MDMA. Duloxetine may be useful in the treatment of psychostimulant dependence. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00990067 PMID:22574166

  15. Enhancement of nootropic effect of duloxetine and bupropion by caffeine in mice

    PubMed Central

    Kale, Pravin Popatrao; Addepalli, Veeranjaneyulu

    2015-01-01

    Objective: The existing evidence suggests an association between depression and memory impairment. The objective of present study was to assess the effect of low dose caffeine with duloxetine and bupropion on memory. Materials and Methods: Mice were divided randomly into seven groups. Intra-peritoneal treatment of normal saline (10 ml/kg), caffeine (10 mg/kg), duloxetine (10 mg/kg), bupropion alone (10 mg/kg), caffeine + duloxetine (5 mg/kg, each), caffeine + bupropion (5 mg/kg, each), and bupropion + duloxetine (5 mg/kg, each) were given to groups I-VII, respectively. Elevated plus maze was used to evaluate transfer latency (TL) and Morris water maze was used to estimate the time spent in target quadrant. Results: Caffeine with duloxetine treated group was better than other combination treated groups in terms of a significant decrease in TL and increase in the time spent in target quadrant recorded. Conclusion: Combining lower dose of caffeine with duloxetine may enhance cognitive benefits than respective monotherapies. PMID:25878382

  16. Comparison of the effects of sibutramine and other monoamine reuptake inhibitors on food intake in the rat

    PubMed Central

    Jackson, Helen C; Needham, Andrew M; Hutchins, Lisa J; Mazurkiewicz, Sarah E; Heal, David J

    1997-01-01

    The effects of the potent 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, SNRI), sibutramine, on the cumulative food intake of freely-feeding male Sprague-Dawley rats during an 8 h dark period were investigated and compared to those of the selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitor (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, SSRI), fluoxetine; the selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, nisoxetine; the 5-HT and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, venlafaxine and duloxetine; and the 5-HT releaser and 5-HT reuptake inhibitor, (+)-fenfluramine. Sibutramine (3 and 10 mg kg−1, p.o.) and (+)-fenfluramine (1 and 3 mg kg−1, p.o.) produced a significant, dose-dependent decrease in food intake over the 8 h dark period. These responses became apparent within the first 2 h following drug administration. Fluoxetine (3, 10 and 30 mg kg−1, p.o.), and nisoxetine (3, 10 and 30 mg kg−1, p.o.) had no significant effect on food intake during the 8 h dark period. However, a combination of fluoxetine and nisoxetine (30 mg kg−1, p.o., of each) significantly decreased food intake 2 and 8 h after drug administration. Venlafaxine (100 and 300 mg kg−1, p.o.) and duloxetine (30 mg kg−1, p.o.) also significantly decreased food intake in the 2 and 8 h following drug administration. The results of this study demonstrate that inhibition of 5-HT and noradrenaline reuptake by sibutramine, venlafaxine, duloxetine, or by a combination of fluoxetine and nisoxetine, markedly reduces food intake in freely-feeding rats and suggest that this may be a novel approach for the treatment of obesity. PMID:9283714

  17. A double-blind efficacy and safety study of duloxetine flexible dosing in children and adolescents with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Atkinson, Sarah D; Prakash, Apurva; Zhang, Qi; Pangallo, Beth A; Bangs, Mark E; Emslie, Graham J; March, John S

    2014-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of duloxetine flexible dose in children (7-11 years) and adolescents (12-17 years) with major depressive disorder (MDD). Patients (n=337) in this 36 week study (10 week acute and 26 week extension treatment) received duloxetine (60-120 mg once daily [QD], n=117), fluoxetine (20-40 mg QD, n=117), or placebo (n=103). Measures included: Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R), treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Neither active drug (duloxetine or fluoxetine) separated significantly (p<0.05) from placebo on mean change from baseline to end-point (10 weeks) on the CDRS-R total score. There were no significant differences between the duloxetine or fluoxetine groups compared with placebo on serious AEs (SAEs), total TEAEs, or discontinuation for AE during acute treatment. There were no completed suicides or deaths, and no clinically significant electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities observed during the study. One fluoxetine and one duloxetine patient experienced alanine aminotransferase (ALT) three or more times the upper limit of normal, which resolved during the study. A total of 8 (7.1%) duloxetine patients, 7 (6.8%) placebo patients, and 9 (8.0%) fluoxetine patients had worsening of suicidal ideation from baseline during acute treatment. Of the patients with suicidal ideation at baseline, 15/19 (79%) duloxetine, 19/19 (100%) placebo, and 16/19 (84%) fluoxetine had improvement in suicidal ideation at end-point during acute treatment. One duloxetine and two fluoxetine patients had treatment-emergent suicidal behavior during the 36 week study. Trial results were inconclusive, as neither the investigational drug (duloxetine) nor the active control (fluoxetine) separated from placebo on the CDRS-R at 10 weeks. No new duloxetine safety signals were identified relative to those seen in adults. Clinical Trial Registry Number: NCT00849901.

  18. Duloxetine Plasma Concentrations and Its Effectiveness in the Treatment of Nonorganic Chronic Pain in the Orofacial Region.

    PubMed

    Kobayashi, Yuka; Nagashima, Wataru; Tokura, Tatsuya; Yoshida, Keizo; Umemura, Eri; Miyauchi, Tomoya; Arao, Munetaka; Ito, Mikiko; Kimura, Hiroyuki; Kurita, Kenichi; Ozaki, Norio

    The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the pain-relieving effects of duloxetine and its plasma concentrations in patients with burning mouth syndrome and atypical odontalgia characterized by chronic nonorganic pain in the orofacial region. We administered duloxetine to 77 patients diagnosed as having burning mouth syndrome or atypical odontalgia for 12 weeks. The initial dose of duloxetine was established as 20 mg/d and was increased to 40 mg/d after week 2. We evaluated pain using the visual analog scale and depressive symptoms using the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 and measured plasma concentrations of duloxetine 12 weeks after the start of its administration. Visual analog scale scores were significantly lower 12 weeks after than at the start of the administration of duloxetine (paired t test, t = 6.65, P < 0.0001). We examined the relationship between the rate of decreases in visual analog scale scores and plasma concentrations of duloxetine. There was no significant linear regression or quadratic regression. Duloxetine significantly relieved pain in patients with chronic nonorganic pain in the orofacial region. However, no relationship was observed between its pain-relieving effects and plasma concentrations.

  19. The Combination of Antidepressant Duloxetine with Piracetam in Mice does not Produce Enhancement of Nootropic Activity.

    PubMed

    Kale, Pravin Popatrao; Addepalli, Veeranjaneyulu; Sarkar, Amrita; Patel, Sonam; Savai, Jay

    2014-09-01

    There is a strong association between depression and memory impairment. The present study aims to assess the nootropic activity of duloxetine and piracetam combination. Male Swiss Albino mice were divided randomly into 4 groups. Treatment of normal saline (10 ml/kg), duloxetine (10 mg/kg), piracetam (100 mg/kg), and duloxetine (5 mg/kg) plus piracetam (50 mg/kg) were given through intra-peritoneal route to group I-IV, respectively. Transfer latency in elevated plus maze (EPM) and time spent in target quadrant in Morris water maze (MWM) were recorded. Estimation of brain monoamines in hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and whole brain were done using HPLC with fluorescence detector. Piracetam treated group showed significant decrease in transfer latency in EPM and increase in time spent in target quadrant recorded in MWM. Combination treated group failed to produce statistically significant nootropic effect in both EPM and MWM. Combination treated group failed to increase brain monoamine levels when compared against duloxetine and piracetam treated groups, separately. But there was exception of significant increase in norepinephrine levels in hippocampi when compared against duloxetine treated group. Results indicate no cognitive benefits with piracetam plus duloxetine combination. These findings can be further probed with the aim of understanding the interaction between duloxetine and piracetam as a future endeavor.

  20. Infant health and neurodevelopmental outcomes following prenatal exposure to duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Bellantuono, Cesario; Marini, Alessandra; Lucarelli, Chiara

    2013-09-01

    Maternal psychiatric disorders can have negative consequences on the fetus and newborn. Thus, the risks of untreated mental disorders in pregnancy should be balanced against the potential risks of a psychopharmacological treatment. The aim of the present report is to provide information on the infant safety of duloxetine exposure, an antidepressant drug belonging to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, during pregnancy. Despite duloxetine being routinely prescribed as a treatment for major depression and anxiety disorders, there is a paucity of literature evaluating both the short- and long-term effects of duloxetine exposure in utero. This paper provides data on infant health and neurodevelopmental outcomes, up to 9 months of age, in a newborn exposed to duloxetine throughout pregnancy. Although the present report suggests that duloxetine was not associated with major malformations or neurobehavioural problems, the drug should be used with caution until further information is available on its safety profile in pregnancy.

  1. Occupancy of Norepinephrine Transporter by Duloxetine in Human Brains Measured by Positron Emission Tomography with (S,S)-[18F]FMeNER-D2.

    PubMed

    Moriguchi, Sho; Takano, Harumasa; Kimura, Yasuyuki; Nagashima, Tomohisa; Takahata, Keisuke; Kubota, Manabu; Kitamura, Soichiro; Ishii, Tatsuya; Ichise, Masanori; Zhang, Ming-Rong; Shimada, Hitoshi; Mimura, Masaru; Meyer, Jeffrey H; Higuchi, Makoto; Suhara, Tetsuya

    2017-12-01

    The norepinephrine transporter in the brain has been targeted in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Duloxetine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that has been widely used for the treatment of depression. However, the relationship between dose and plasma concentration of duloxetine and norepinephrine transporter occupancy in the human brain has not been determined. In this study, we examined norepinephrine transporter occupancy by different doses of duloxetine. We calculated norepinephrine transporter occupancies from 2 positron emission tomography scans using (S,S)-[18F]FMeNER-D2 before and after a single oral dose of duloxetine (20 mg, n = 3; 40 mg, n = 3; 60 mg, n =2). Positron emission tomography scans were performed from 120 to 180 minutes after an i.v. bolus injection of (S,S)-[18F]FMeNER-D2. Venous blood samples were taken to measure the plasma concentration of duloxetine just before and after the second positron emission tomography scan. Norepinephrine transporter occupancy by duloxetine was 29.7% at 20 mg, 30.5% at 40 mg, and 40.0% at 60 mg. The estimated dose of duloxetine inducing 50% norepinephrine transporter occupancy was 76.8 mg, and the estimated plasma drug concentration inducing 50% norepinephrine transporter occupancy was 58.0 ng/mL. Norepinephrine transporter occupancy by clinical doses of duloxetine was approximately 30% to 40% in human brain as estimated using positron emission tomography with (S,S)-[18F]FMeNER-D2. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of CINP.

  2. Assessment of functional outcomes by Sheehan Disability Scale in patients with major depressive disorder treated with duloxetine versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Sheehan, David V; Mancini, Michele; Wang, Jianing; Berggren, Lovisa; Cao, Haijun; Dueñas, Héctor José; Yue, Li

    2016-01-01

    We compared functional impairment outcomes assessed with Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) after treatment with duloxetine versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in patients with major depressive disorder. Data were pooled from four randomized studies comparing treatment with duloxetine and SSRIs (three double blind and one open label). Analysis of covariance, with last-observation-carried-forward approach for missing data, explored treatment differences between duloxetine and SSRIs on SDS changes during 8 to 12 weeks of acute treatment for the intent-to-treat population. Logistic regression analysis examined the predictive capacity of baseline patient characteristics for remission in functional impairment (SDS total score ≤ 6 and SDS item scores ≤ 2) at endpoint. Included were 2193 patients (duloxetine n = 1029; SSRIs n = 835; placebo n = 329). Treatment with duloxetine and SSRIs resulted in significantly (p < 0.01) greater improvements in the SDS total score versus treatment with placebo. Higher SDS (p < 0.0001) or 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale baseline scores (p < 0.01) predicted lower probability of functional improvement after treatment with duloxetine or SSRIs. Female gender (p ≤ 0.05) predicted higher probability of functional improvement after treatment with duloxetine or SSRIs. Treatment with SSRIs and duloxetine improved functional impairment in patients with major depressive disorder. Higher SDS or 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale baseline scores predicted less probability of SDS improvement; female gender predicted better improvement in functional impairment at endpoint. © 2015 The Authors. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  3. Effects of duloxetine on microRNA expression profile in frontal lobe and hippocampus in a mouse model of depression.

    PubMed

    Pan, Bing; Liu, Yamei

    2015-01-01

    Depression is a major mood disorder affecting people worldwide. The posttranscriptional gene regulation mediated by microRNAs (miRNAs) which may have critical roles in the pathogenesis of depression. However, to date, little is known about the effects of the antidepressant drug duloxetine on miRNA expression profile in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression model in mice. Healthy adult male Kunming mice were randomly divided into three groups: control group, model group and duloxetine group. Sucrose preference test and open field test were used to represent the behavioral change. MiRNAs levels in frontal lobe and hippocampus of mice were analyzed using miRNA microarrays assay. We observed that long-term treatment with duloxetine significantly ameliorated the CUMS procedure-induced sucrose preference decreases and mice treated with duloxetine demonstrated a reversal of the number of crossings, and rearings reduced by CUMS. A significant upregulation of miR-132 and miR-18a in hippocampus in the duloxetine treatment group compared with model group, whereas the levels of miR-134 and miR-124a were significantly downregulated. Furthermore, miR-18a showed significant upregulation in frontal lobe in the duloxetine treatment group relative to model group. Our data showed that miRNA expression profile in frontal lobe and hippocampus was affected by duloxetine in mice model of depression. The effect was especially pronounced in the hippocampus, suggesting that hippocampus might be the action site of duloxetine, which presumably worked by regulating the expression of miRNA levels.

  4. Neuroprotective effect of duloxetine in a mouse model of diabetic neuropathy: Role of glia suppressing mechanisms.

    PubMed

    Tawfik, Mona K; Helmy, Seham A; Badran, Dahlia I; Zaitone, Sawsan A

    2018-07-15

    Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is one of the most frequent complications of diabetes and the current therapies have limited efficacy. This study aimed to study the neuroprotective effect of duloxetine, a serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), in a mouse model of diabetic neuropathy. Nine weeks after developing of PDN, mice were treated with either saline or duloxetine (15 or 30 mg/kg) for four weeks. The effect of duloxetine was assessed in terms of pain responses, histopathology of sciatic nerve and spinal cord, sciatic nerve growth factor (NGF) gene expression and on the spinal expression of astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP) and microglia (CD 11 b). The present results highlighted that duloxetine (30 mg/kg) increased the withdrawal threshold in von-Frey test. In addition, both doses of duloxetine prolonged the licking time and latency to jump in the hot-plate test. Moreover, duloxetine administration downregulated the spinal expression of both CD 11 b and GFAP associated with enhancement in sciatic mRNA expression of NGF. The current results highlighted that duloxetine provided peripheral and central neuroprotective effects in neuropathic pain is, at least in part, related to its downregulation in spinal astrocytes and microglia. Further, this neuroprotective effect was accompanied by upregulation of sciatic expression of NGF. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Effect of duloxetine on pain, function, and quality of life among patients with chemotherapy-induced painful peripheral neuropathy: a randomized clinical trial

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Ellen M. Lavoie; Pang, Herbert; Cirrincione, Constance; Fleishman, Stewart; Paskett, Electra D.; Ahles, Tim; Bressler, Linda R.; Fadul, Camilo E.; Knox, Chetaye; Le-Lindqwister, Nguyet; Gilman, Paul B.; Shapiro, Charles L.

    2013-01-01

    Context There are no known effective treatments for painful chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Objective The primary objective was to determine the effect of duloxetine 60 mg daily on CIPN “average” pain severity Design Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover Setting Eight National Cancer Institute (NCI)-funded cooperative research networks recruited patients from community and academic settings between April 2008 and March 2011. Study follow-up was completed July 2012. Patients 231 patients ≥ 25 years of age were randomized (stratified by chemotherapy drug and CIPN comorbid risk) to receive either duloxetine followed by placebo or placebo followed by duloxetine. Eligible patients reported ≥ Grade 1 sensory CIPN per the NCI Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events and ≥ 4/10 average CIPN-related pain following paclitaxel or oxaliplatin treatment. 81% completed the initial treatment period. Intervention The initial treatment consisted of duloxetine/placebo 30mg/one capsule daily for the first week, then 60mg/two capsules for four additional weeks Outcome Measure The primary hypothesis was that duloxetine would be more effective than placebo in decreasing CIPN pain. Pain severity was assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form “average pain” item [0 (no pain) – 10 (as bad as can imagine)]. Results Individuals receiving duloxetine as initial treatment (weeks 1–5) reported a larger mean decrease in average pain (1.06; 95% CI: 0.72, 1.40) compared to placebo-treated patients (0.34; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.66) (p = 0.003) (effect size = 0.513). The observed mean difference in the average pain score between the duloxetine and placebo groups was 0.73 (95% CI: 0.26, 1.20). 59% of duloxetine-treated patients compared to 38% of placebo-treated patients reported decreased pain of any amount. Conclusions Among patients with painful CIPN, the use of duloxetine compared with placebo for 5 weeks resulted in a greater reduction in pain. PMID:23549581

  6. Efficacy of Duloxetine for the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Implications for Primary Care Physicians

    PubMed Central

    Koponen, Hannu; Allgulander, Christer; Erickson, Janelle; Dunayevich, Eduardo; Pritchett, Yili; Detke, Michael J.; Ball, Susan G.; Russell, James M.

    2007-01-01

    Objective: This study examined the efficacy and tolerability of duloxetine, a dual reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine, for the treatment of patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Method: Patients were ≥ 18 years old and recruited from 5 European countries, the United States, and South Africa. The study had a 9-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, fixed-dose, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design. A total of 513 patients (mean age = 43.8 years; 67.8% female) with a DSM-IV–defined GAD diagnosis received treatment with duloxetine 60 mg/day (N = 168), duloxetine 120 mg/day (N = 170), or placebo (N = 175). The primary efficacy measure was the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A) total score. Secondary measures included the Sheehan Disability Scale, HAM-A psychic and somatic anxiety factor scores, and HAM-A response, remission, and sustained improvement rates. The study was conducted from July 2004 to September 2005. Results: Both groups of duloxetine-treated patients demonstrated significantly greater improvements in anxiety symptom severity compared with placebo-treated patients as measured by HAM-A total score and HAM-A psychic and somatic anxiety factor scores (p values ranged from ≤ .01 to ≤ .001). Duloxetine-treated patients had greater functional improvements in Sheehan Disability Scale global and specific domain scores (p ≤ .001) than placebo-treated patients. Both duloxetine doses also resulted in significantly greater HAM-A response, remission, and sustained improvement rates compared with placebo (p values ranged from ≤ .01 to ≤ .001). The rate of study discontinuation due to adverse events was 11.3% for duloxetine 60 mg and 15.3% for duloxetine 120 mg versus 2.3% for placebo (p ≤ .001). Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that duloxetine 60 mg/day and 120 mg/day were efficacious and well tolerated and thus may provide primary care physicians with a useful pharmacologic intervention for GAD. Clinical Trials Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00122824. PMID:17607331

  7. Duloxetine loaded-microemulsion system to improve behavioral activities by upregulating serotonin and norepinephrine in brain for the treatment of depression.

    PubMed

    Sindhu, Pardeep; Kumar, Shobhit; Iqbal, Babar; Ali, Javed; Baboota, Sanjula

    2018-04-01

    Duloxetine is a well-known antidepressant molecule which is used in the treatment of depression but due to poor solubility it suffers with the drawback of low oral bioavailability. The objective of present work was to formulate and characterize duloxetine loaded microemulsion to enhance the oral bioavailability. Prepared microemulsion was studied for droplet size, zeta potential, refractive index, polydispersity index (PDI), percentage transmittance, viscosity and in vitro release study. Optimized microemulsion (D1) showed spherical droplets with mean diameter of 35.40 ± 3.11 nm, PDI of 0.170 and zeta potential values of -25.8 mV. Formulation showed good transmittance (greater than 99%), viscosity (0.205 Pa s) and refractive index (1.43 ± 0.01). Increased duloxetine release was obtained with microemulsion in comparison to drug suspension. Behavioral tests like mobility test, tail suspension test and forced swimming test performed in depressed and treated rats with duloxetine microemulsion significantly improved the behavioral activities in comparison to duloxetine suspension. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that microemulsion exhibited 1.8 times increment in bioavailability in comparison to duloxetine suspension. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Cost-utility analysis of duloxetine in osteoarthritis: a US private payer perspective.

    PubMed

    Wielage, Ronald C; Bansal, Megha; Andrews, J Scott; Klein, Robert W; Happich, Michael

    2013-06-01

    Duloxetine has recently been approved in the USA for chronic musculoskeletal pain, including osteoarthritis and chronic low back pain. The cost effectiveness of duloxetine in osteoarthritis has not previously been assessed. Duloxetine is targeted as post first-line (after acetaminophen) treatment of moderate to severe pain. The objective of this study was to estimate the cost effectiveness of duloxetine in the treatment of osteoarthritis from a US private payer perspective compared with other post first-line oral treatments, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and both strong and weak opioids. A cost-utility analysis was performed using a discrete-state, time-dependent semi-Markov model based on the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) model documented in its 2008 osteoarthritis guidelines. The model was extended for opioids by adding titration, discontinuation and additional adverse events (AEs). A life-long time horizon was adopted to capture the full consequences of NSAID-induced AEs. Fourteen health states comprised the structure of the model: treatment without persistent AE, six during-AE states, six post-AE states and death. Treatment-specific utilities were calculated using the transfer-to-utility method and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) total scores from a meta-analysis of osteoarthritis clinical trials of 12 weeks and longer. Costs for 2011 were estimated using Red Book, The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database, the literature and, sparingly, expert opinion. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were undertaken, as well as subgroup analyses of patients over 65 years old and a population at greater risk of NSAID-related AEs. In the base case the model estimated naproxen to be the lowest total-cost treatment, tapentadol the highest cost, and duloxetine the most effective after considering AEs. Duloxetine accumulated 0.027 discounted quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) more than naproxen and 0.013 more than oxycodone. Celecoxib was dominated by naproxen, tramadol was subject to extended dominance, and strong opioids were dominated by duloxetine. The model estimated an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of US$47,678 per QALY for duloxetine versus naproxen. One-way sensitivity analysis identified the probabilities of NSAID-related cardiovascular AEs as the inputs to which the ICER was most sensitive when duloxetine was compared with an NSAID. When compared with a strong opioid, duloxetine dominated the opioid under nearly all sensitivity analysis scenarios. When compared with tramadol, the ICER was most sensitive to the costs of duloxetine and tramadol. In subgroup analysis, the cost per QALY for duloxetine versus naproxen fell to US$24,125 for patients over 65 years and to US$18,472 for a population at high risk of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal AEs. The model estimated that duloxetine was potentially cost effective in the base-case population and more cost effective for subgroups over 65 years or at high risk of NSAID-related AEs. In sensitivity analysis, duloxetine dominated all strong opioids in nearly all scenarios.

  9. Duloxetine and Subacute Pain after Knee Arthroplasty when Added to a Multimodal Analgesic Regimen: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Triple-blinded Trial.

    PubMed

    YaDeau, Jacques T; Brummett, Chad M; Mayman, David J; Lin, Yi; Goytizolo, Enrique A; Padgett, Douglas E; Alexiades, Michael M; Kahn, Richard L; Jules-Elysee, Kethy M; Fields, Kara G; Goon, Amanda K; Gadulov, Yuliya; Westrich, Geoffrey

    2016-09-01

    Duloxetine is effective for chronic musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain, but there are insufficient data to recommend the use of antidepressants for postoperative pain. The authors hypothesized that administration of duloxetine for 15 days would reduce pain with ambulation at 2 weeks after total knee arthroplasty. In this triple-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, patients received either duloxetine or placebo for 15 days, starting from the day of surgery. Patients also received a comprehensive multimodal analgesic regimen including neuraxial anesthesia, epidural analgesia, an adductor canal block, meloxicam, and oxycodone/acetaminophen as needed. The primary outcome was the pain score (0 to 10 numeric rating scale) with ambulation on postoperative day 14. One hundred six patients were randomized and analyzed. On day 14, duloxetine had no effect on pain with ambulation; mean pain was 3.8 (SD, 2.3) for placebo versus 3.5 (SD, 2.1) for duloxetine (difference in means [95% CI], 0.4 [-0.5 to 1.2]; P = 0.386). Symptoms potentially attributable to duloxetine discontinuation at study drug completion (nausea, anxiety) occurred among nine patients (duloxetine) and five patients (placebo); this was not statistically significant (P = 0.247). Statistically significant secondary outcomes included opioid consumption (difference in mean milligram oral morphine equivalents [95% CI], 8.7 [3.3 to 14.1], P = 0.002 by generalized estimating equation) over the postoperative period and nausea on day 1 (P = 0.040). There was no difference in other side effects or in anxiety and depression scores. When included as a part of a multimodal analgesic regimen for knee arthroplasty, duloxetine does not reduce subacute pain with ambulation.

  10. Duloxetine versus other anti-depressive agents for depression

    PubMed Central

    Cipriani, Andrea; Koesters, Markus; Furukawa, Toshi A; Nosè, Michela; Purgato, Marianna; Omori, Ichiro M; Trespidi, Carlotta; Barbui, Corrado

    2014-01-01

    Background Although pharmacological and psychological interventions are both effective for major depression, in primary and secondary care settings antidepressant drugs remain the mainstay of treatment. Amongst antidepressants many different agents are available. Duloxetine hydrochloride is a dual reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine and has been licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in the US for major depressive disorder (MDD), generalised anxiety disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Objectives To assess the evidence for the efficacy, acceptability and tolerability of duloxetine in comparison with all other antidepressant agents in the acute-phase treatment of major depression. Search methods MEDLINE (1966 to 2012), EMBASE (1974 to 2012), the Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Controlled Trials Register and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to March 2012. No language restriction was applied. Reference lists of relevant papers and previous systematic reviews were hand-searched. Pharmaceutical company marketing duloxetine and experts in this field were contacted for supplemental data. Selection criteria Randomised controlled trials allocating patients with major depression to duloxetine versus any other antidepressive agent. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently extracted data and a double-entry procedure was employed. Information extracted included study characteristics, participant characteristics, intervention details and outcome measures in terms of efficacy, acceptability and tolerability. Main results A total of 16 randomised controlled trials (overall 5735 participants) were included in this systematic review. Of these, three trials were unpublished. We found 11 studies (overall 3304 participants) comparing duloxetine with one selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) (six studies versus paroxetine, three studies versus escitalopram and two versus fluoxetine), four studies (overall 1978 participants) comparing duloxetine with a newer antidepressants (three with venlafaxine and one with desvenlafaxine, respectively) and one study (overall 453 participants) comparing duloxetine with an antipsychotic drug which is also used as an antidepressive agent, quetiapine. No studies were found comparing duloxetine with tricyclic antidepressants. The pooled confidence intervals were rather wide and there were no statistically significant differences in efficacy when comparing duloxetine with other antidepressants. However, when compared with escitalopram or venlafaxine, there was a higher rate of drop out due to any cause in the patients randomised to duloxetine (odds ratio (OR) 1.62; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01 to 2.62 and OR 1.56; 95% CI 1.14 to 2.15, respectively). There was also some weak evidence suggesting that patients taking duloxetine experienced more adverse events than paroxetine (OR 1.24; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.55). Authors’ conclusions Duloxetine did not seem to provide a significant advantage in efficacy over other antidepressive agents for the acute-phase treatment of major depression. No differences in terms of efficacy were found, even though duloxetine was worse than some SSRIs (most of all, escitalopram) and newer antidepressants (like venlafaxine) in terms of acceptability and tolerability. Unfortunately, we only found evidence comparing duloxetine with a handful of other active antidepressive agents and only a few trials per comparison were found (in some cases we retrieved just one trial). This limited the power of the review to detect moderate, but clinically meaningful differences between the drugs. As many statistical tests have been used in the review, the findings from this review are better thought of as hypothesis forming rather than hypothesis testing and it would be very comforting to see the conclusions replicated in future trials. Most of included studies were sponsored by the drug industry manufacturing duloxetine. As for all other new investigational compounds, the potential for overestimation of treatment effect due to sponsorship bias should be borne in mind. In the present review no trials reported economic outcomes. Given that several SSRIs and the great majority of antidepressants are now available as generic formulation (only escitalopram, desvenlafaxine and duloxetine are still on patent), more comprehensive economic estimates of antidepressant treatment effect should be considered to better inform healthcare policy. PMID:23076926

  11. Duloxetine contributing to a successful multimodal treatment program for peripheral femoral neuropathy and comorbid 'reactive depression' in an adolescent.

    PubMed

    Kachko, Ludmyla; Ben Ami, Shiri; Liberman, Alon; Birk, Einat; Kronenberg, Sefi

    2011-01-01

    In the United States, duloxetine has been approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia in the adult population. Data regarding the use of duloxetine in the pediatric population, however, are very limited. Femoral nerve injury is a rare complication of cardiac catheterization. In the case described, duloxetine contributed to a successful multimodal treatment program for peripheral neuropathic pain due to femoral neuropathy in an adolescent with 'reactive depression' and conversion symptoms. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the present article is only the third such report on this dual use of duloxetine in children and adolescents, and the first report of such treatment following femoral neuropathy induced by cardiac catheterization.

  12. Implications of Pain in Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Efficacy of Duloxetine

    PubMed Central

    Hartford, James T.; Endicott, Jean; Kornstein, Susan G.; Allgulander, Christer; Wohlreich, Madelaine M.; Russell, James M.; Perahia, David G. S.; Erickson, Janelle S.

    2008-01-01

    Objective: To conduct a post hoc evaluation of the prevalence of clinically significant pain and the efficacy of duloxetine in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and concurrent pain. Method: Data from two 9- to 10-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials of duloxetine (60 to 120 mg) in DSM-IV–defined GAD were analyzed (study 1 was conducted from July 2004 to September 2005; study 2 was conducted from August 2004 to June 2005). Efficacy was assessed with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A), visual analog scales (VAS) for pain, the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS), the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement of Illness (CGI-I) scale, the Patient Global Impressions-Improvement (PGI-I) scale, and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) global functional impairment scale. Results: Of 840 patients randomly assigned to treatment, 61.3% (302 duloxetine, 213 placebo) had VAS scores ≥ 30 mm on at least 1 of the pain scales, indicating clinically significant pain. Among those patients with concurrent pain at baseline, change from baseline to endpoint in the HAM-A total score (42.9% change in mean scores for duloxetine, 31.4% for placebo), HADS anxiety scale (40.3% vs. 22.8%), HADS depression scale (36.1% vs. 20.5%), HAM-A psychic factor (45.9% vs. 29.9%), and SDS global functional improvement score (45.5% vs. 22.1%) was significantly (all p's < .001) greater for duloxetine compared with placebo. Improvement on the CGI-I (p = .003) and PGI-I (p < .001) was also significantly greater for duloxetine. Response (HAM-A total score decrease ≥ 50%) (49% vs. 29%) and remission (HAM-A total score ≤ 7 at endpoint) (29% vs. 18%) rates were significantly greater for duloxetine compared with placebo (p < .001 and p = .041, respectively). Duloxetine demonstrated statistically significantly greater reduction in pain on all 6 VAS pain scales (all p's < .001 except headaches with p < .002) (for duloxetine, percent change in means from baseline to endpoint ranged from 40.1% to 45.2% across the 6 VAS scales; for placebo, 22.0% to 26.3%). Conclusion: Duloxetine, relative to placebo, improves anxiety symptoms, pain, and functional impairment among patients with GAD with concurrent clinically significant pain. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifiers: NCT00122824 (study 1) and NCT00475969 (study 2) PMID:18615176

  13. [Treatment of Persistent Somatoform Pain Disorder by Floating Needle Therapy and Duloxetine].

    PubMed

    Ren, Wan-wen; Zhou, Zhi-ying; Xu, Mi-mi; Long, Sen; Tang, Guang-zheng; Mao, Hong-jing; Chen, Shu-lin

    2016-02-01

    To evaluate clinical effect and safety of floating needle therapy and duloxetine in treating patients with persistent somatoform pain disorder (PSPD). Totally 108 PSPD patients were randomly assigned to the floating needle treatment group, the duloxetine treatment group, and the placebo treatment group, 36 in each group. Patients in the floating needle treatment group received floating needle therapy and placebo. Those in the duloxetine treatment group received duloxetine and simulated floating needle therapy. Those in the placebo treatment group received the placebo and simulated floating needle therapy. All treatment lasted for six weeks. Efficacy and adverse reactions were evaluated using Simple McGill pain scale (SF-MPQ) and Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS) before treatment and immediately after treatment, as well as at the end of 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th week of treatment, respectively. Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD, 17 items), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) were assessed before treatment and at the end of 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th week of treatment, respectively. Patients in the floating needle treatment group and the duloxetine treatment group with the total reducing score rate of SF-MPQ in Pain Rating index (PRI) ≥ 50% after 6 weeks' treatment were involved in the follow-up study. (1) Compared with the same group before treatment, SF-MPQ score, HAMD score and HAMA total scores all decreased in all the three groups at the end of 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th week of treatment (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Besides , each item of SF-MPQ significantly decreased immediately after treatment in the floating needle treatment group (P < 0.01). Compared with the placebo treatment group, SF-MPQ, HAMD, and HAMA total score in the floating needle treatment group significantly decreased after 1, 2, 4, and 6 weeks of treatment (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). SF-MPQ score, HAMD score and HAMA total score in the duloxetine treatment group also significantly decreased after 2, 4, and 6 weeks of treatment (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (2) There were 3 patients (8.3%) who had adverse reactions in the floating needle treatment group, 17 (50.0%) in the duloxetine treatment group, and 7 (21.2%) in the placebo treatment group. Compared with the placebo treatment group, the incidence of adverse reaction increased in the duloxetine treatment group (χ² = 6.04, P < 0.05). Besides, it was higher in the duloxetine treatment group than in the floating needle treatment group (χ² = 14.9, P < 0.05). (3) There were 19 patients in the floating needle treatment group and 17 patients in the duloxetine treatment group involved in the follow-up study. Compared with 6 weeks after treatment, no significant difference was observed at 3 and 6 months after treatment in the score of SF-MPQ, HAMD, and HAMA in the floating needle treatment group and the duloxetine treatment group. No significant difference was observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were 5 patients (29.4%) who had adverse reactions in the duloxetine treatment group, and no adverse reactions were observed in the floating needle treatment group. The adverse reaction rate was significantly different between the two groups (χ² = 4.26, P < 0.05). Floating needle therapy and duloxetine were effective in treatment of patients with PSPD. However, floating needle therapy could relieve pain more rapidly than duloxetine, with obviously less adverse reactions.

  14. Efficacy and safety of duloxetine in Chinese breast cancer patients with paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Jiani; Li, Qing; Xu, Binghe; Zhang, Tongtong; Chen, Shanshan; Luo, Yang

    2017-01-01

    Objective Chemotherapy with paclitaxel is associated with significant neurotoxicity that may offset patients’ quality of life and therapeutic benefits. This prospective, non-randomized control study evaluated the efficacy and safety of an antidepressant drug, duloxetine, at 30 or 60 mg/d, in the treatment of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) in Chinese breast cancer patients. Methods A total of 102 patients with a median age of 50 (range, 25–60) years, treated in the Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, between November 2014 and January 2017 were finally enrolled. Stratified by baseline characteristics, the patients were classified into two groups, receiving either duloxetine or alternative anti-neurotoxicity drugs. During the course of the paclitaxel regimen, the eligibility criteria included sensory neuropathy, as evaluated by the National Cancer Institute-Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events. The treatment consisted of receiving 30 mg duloxetine (for the first 4 weeks) and 60 mg duloxetine for an additional 8 weeks, or any other anti-neurotoxicity drug daily during the same crossover period. The improvement associated with PIPN from the patient’s perspective were assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane (FACT-Tax) Scales, which contained questions scored from 0 to 4 (0, not at all; 4, very much; total score range, 0–44). Results Duloxetine was more effective in decreasing PIPN (odds ratio=5.426; 95% confidence interval, 1.898–15.514; P=0.002). Between duloxetine group and control group, the median (25th–75th percentiles) decreasing difference in the FACT-Tax pain score was 4 (2–6) vs. 1 (0–4) (P=0.005). Conclusions Duloxetine is a promising and safe option with tolerable toxicity at a dose of 60 mg/d for Chinese breast cancer patients with PIPN. Non-neuropathy adverse events were mild and similar in both groups. The major toxicities of duloxetine included nausea, constipation, somnolence, dizziness and distention of the eyes. Further examination of the benefits of duloxetine in the prevention of PIPN is required. PMID:29142460

  15. Effects of duloxetine in treatment-refractory men with posttraumatic stress disorder.

    PubMed

    Walderhaug, E; Kasserman, S; Aikins, D; Vojvoda, D; Nishimura, C; Neumeister, A

    2010-03-01

    Although there is evidence that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors provide some benefit in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), most meta-analytical reviews have concluded that effect sizes are small and, moreover, that there may be relatively little benefit for some populations (e. g., combat veterans with co-morbid major depression, MDD). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of the dual reuptake inhibitor duloxetine in the treatment of PTSD and co-morbid MDD. Twenty-one treatment refractory, male, combat-related patients with PTSD and co-morbid MDD were enrolled in a naturalistic study and twenty completed the trial. Duloxetine was given between 60 and 120 mg daily over 8 weeks. Duloxetine led to a significant improvement of PTSD-characteristic symptoms as well as co-morbid MDD. Duloxetine effectively reduced nightmares, which is important because decreasing nightmares has been associated with improved sleep in PTSD. The results of this naturalistic study suggest that duloxetine is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for patients with PTSD and co-morbid MDD. These initial results need to be extended to the study of women with PTSD.

  16. Adverse events, toxicity and post-mortem data on duloxetine: case reports and literature survey.

    PubMed

    Vey, Eric L; Kovelman, Inna

    2010-05-01

    Duloxetine, a dual acting norepinephrine serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is a relatively new pharmacologic agent utilized in the treatment of depression, as well as diabetic neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and female stress urinary incontinence. This expanding scope of usage will inevitably lead to its eventual appearance during routine post-mortem toxicologic assays. Currently there is a paucity of post-mortem toxicologic data concerning duloxetine. The current report provides six additional case reports of post-mortem duloxetine levels, along with a review of duloxetine's pharmacokinetics, and the toxicologic manifestations which have been reported in the literature. The post-mortem levels reported, including the highest level recorded to date, are integrated with previously published reports to generate a foundation for a nascent guide to the interpretation of post-mortem duloxetine levels that could be encountered during routine post-mortem toxicologic analyses, and establish a basis upon which the establishment of toxic and lethal thresholds for this compound can be further elucidated with greater clarity. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

  17. Cost per successfully treated patient for vortioxetine versus duloxetine in adults with major depressive disorder: an analysis of the complete symptoms of depression and functional outcome.

    PubMed

    Christensen, Michael Cronquist; Munro, Vicki

    2018-04-01

    To determine the cost-effectiveness of vortioxetine vs duloxetine in adults with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder (MDD) in Norway using a definition of a successfully treated patient (STP) that incorporates improvement in both mood symptoms and functional capacity. Using the population of patients who completed the 8-week CONNECT study, the cost-effectiveness of vortioxetine (n = 168) (10-20 mg/day) vs duloxetine (n = 176) (60 mg/day) was investigated for the treatment of adults in Norway with moderate-to-severe MDD and self-reported cognitive dysfunction over an 8-week treatment period. Cost-effectiveness was assessed in terms of cost per STP, defined as improvement in mood symptoms (≥50% decrease from baseline in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale total score) and change in UCSD [University of California San Diego] performance-based skills assessment [UPSA] score of ≥7. The base case analysis utilized pharmacy retail price (apotek utsalgspris (AUP)) for branded vortioxetine (Brintellix) and branded duloxetine (Cymbalta). After 8 weeks of antidepressant therapy, there were more STPs with vortioxetine than with duloxetine (27.4% vs 22.5%, respectively). The mean number needed to treat for each STP was 3.6 for vortioxetine and 4.4 for duloxetine, resulting in a lower mean cost per STP for vortioxetine (NOK [Norwegian Kroner] 3264) than for duloxetine (NOK 3310) and an incremental cost per STP of NOK 3051. The use of a more challenging change in the UPSA score from baseline (≥9) resulted in a mean cost per STP of NOK 3822 for vortioxetine compared with NOK 3983 for duloxetine and an incremental cost per STP of NOK 3181. Vortioxetine may be a cost-effective alternative to duloxetine, owing to its superior ability to improve functional capacity. The dual-response STP concept introduced here represents a more comprehensive analysis of the cost-effectiveness of antidepressants.

  18. Duloxetine in the treatment of elderly people with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Del Casale, Antonio; Girardi, Paolo; Brugnoli, Roberto; Sani, Gabriele; Di Pietro, Simone; Brugnoli, Chiara; Caccia, Federica; Angeletti, Gloria; Serata, Daniele; Rapinesi, Chiara; Tatarelli, Roberto; Kotzalidis, Giorgio D

    2012-01-01

    The elderly population is more frequently subjected to depressive mood compared to the general population and show peculiarities affecting responsiveness; furthermore, aged people need also special care. Duloxetine is a relatively new antidepressant that proved to be effective in adult depression, but has received little attention in elderly population heretofore. To review the evidence of duloxetine in late-life major depressive disorder (MDD). A systematic review of studies focusing on the use of duloxetine in MDD in the elderly has been carried out through the principal specialized databases, including PubMed, PsycLIT, and Embase. Only a handful of papers were specifically dedicated to this issue. Duloxetine was found to be effective and safe in old-age MDD, to be better than placebo on many clinical measures in all studies, and to better differentiate from placebo with respect to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Compared to placebo, its side-effect profile is slightly unfavorable and its drop-out rate is slightly higher. Furthermore, when pain is present in old-age MDD, duloxetine is able to reduce it. The efficacy and safety of duloxetine in old-age depression are similar to those encountered in adult MDD. There is a relative lack of comparative studies other than with placebo. The special needs of elderly patients with MDD must be addressed with close patient contact to avoid the perils of inappropriate dosing.

  19. Evidences for amelioration of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia in rat by low dose of gamma irradiation and duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Shibrya, Eman E; Radwan, Rasha R; Abd El Fattah, Mai A; Shabaan, Esmat A; Kenawy, Sanaa A

    2017-05-01

    Fibromyalgia is a prevalent disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain and complex symptoms. This study was conducted to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of low-dose irradiation (LDI) alone or in combination with duloxetine on the reserpine-induced fibromyalgia in rats. Fibromyalgia was induced by administration of reserpine (1 mg/kg/s.c) for 3 consecutive days. Duloxetine (30 mg/kg, p.o) was administered 60 min before a forced swimming test (FST), and rats were exposed to a single dose of γ-radiation (0.5 Gy) 1 day before the FST. Reserpine significantly increased immobility time in the FST, decreased the amount of 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine, and norepinephrine in cerebral cortex. It also increased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide and reduced glutathione contents in brain tissue. LDI alone or combined with duloxetine completely antagonized reserpine-induced fibromyalgia as assessed by the measured parameters. One of the most significant findings in this study was that the therapeutic effect of duloxetine was more pronounced by its combination with LDI. A possible mechanism of action of LDI and duloxetine responsible for their therapeutic effect was discussed. On the basis of the presented evidences, it could be concluded that LDI alone or combined with duloxetine could be of value in the management of fibromyalgia.

  20. Duloxetine for the treatment of fibromyalgia

    PubMed Central

    Wright, Cheryl L; Mist, Scott D; Ross, Rebecca L; Jones, Kim D

    2011-01-01

    This article presents a brief review of the physiologic abnormalities seen in fibromyalgia, current theories of widespread pain, and treatment options, including emerging therapeutics, with a focus on the use of duloxetine to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Major clinical trials that examine the efficacy and effectiveness of duloxetine to date are reviewed, and safety issues are discussed. PMID:20828282

  1. Duloxetine in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: a comparison of efficacy in patients with and without melancholic features.

    PubMed

    Mallinckrodt, Craig H; Watkin, John G; Liu, Chaofeng; Wohlreich, Madelaine M; Raskin, Joel

    2005-01-04

    The most prominent feature of melancholic depression is a near-total loss of the capacity to derive pleasure from activities or other positive stimuli. Additional symptoms can include psychomotor disturbances, anorexia, excessive guilt, and early awakening from sleep. Melancholic patients may exhibit treatment responses and outcomes that differ from those of non-melancholic patients. Pooled data from double-blind, placebo-controlled studies were utilized to compare the efficacy of duloxetine in depressed patients with and without melancholic features. Efficacy data were pooled from 8 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of duloxetine. The presence of melancholic features (DSM-IV criteria) was determined using results from the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Patients (aged >or= 18 years) meeting DSM-IV criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) received duloxetine (40-120 mg/d; melancholic, N = 759; non-melancholic, N = 379) or placebo (melancholic, N = 519; non-melancholic, N = 256) for up to 9 weeks. Efficacy measures included the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD17) total score, HAMD17 subscales (Maier, anxiety, retardation, sleep), the Clinical Global Impression of Severity (CGI-S) and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scales, and Visual Analog Scales (VAS) for pain. In data from all 8 studies, duloxetine's advantage over placebo did not differ significantly between melancholic and non-melancholic patients (treatment-by-melancholic status interactions were not statistically significant). Duloxetine demonstrated significantly greater improvement in depressive symptom severity, compared with placebo, within both melancholic and non-melancholic cohorts (p

  2. Duloxetine compliance and its association with healthcare costs among patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Wu, N; Chen, S; Boulanger, L; Fraser, K; Bledsoe, S L; Zhao, Y

    2009-09-01

    Duloxetine is approved to treat diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) in the US. The study objective was to examine the predictors of duloxetine compliance, and its association with healthcare costs among DPNP patients. The study used administrative claims databases to identify non-depressed DPNP patients with a duloxetine prescription dispensed between October 1, 2004 and December 31, 2006. Two cohorts of patients were constructed based on compliance to duloxetine therapy over 1-year follow-up with high compliance defined as a medication possession ratio (MPR) > or =0.80. All-cause, diabetes-, and DPNP-related healthcare costs during 1-year follow-up were estimated. Logistic regressions were performed to examine how average daily dose (ADD) of duloxetine and other factors may influence compliance. Multivariate regressions were estimated to examine the association between compliance and healthcare costs. The study included 1,380 commercially insured (mean age 55 years) and 974 patients with employer-sponsored Medicare supplemental insurance (mean age 75 years). In both populations, patients with an ADD >30 mg were more likely to be compliant with the therapy compared with those with an ADD of < or =30 mg (odds ratio ranged 1.79-3.38, all p<0.05). Controlling for differences in demographics, clinical and economic characteristics, commercially insured low duloxetine compliance patients had greater all-cause ($5,334, p<0.05) and diabetes-related healthcare costs ($3,414, p<0.05) than high-compliance patients, with the biggest difference from inpatient costs (all-cause: $7,508; diabetes-related: $3,785, all p<0.05). Similar trends were found in the Medicare supplemental insured population; however, differences in all-cause healthcare costs were not significant. DPNP patients with a higher ADD of duloxetine over a 1-year follow-up period were more compliant with the therapy. Duloxetine patients with high compliance were also associated with lower healthcare costs. Due to the use of a retrospective cohort design on administrative claims database, limitations of this analysis include a lack of formal diagnostic testing of patients, and inability to infer causality or measure factors such as DPNP severity that are not captured in such database.

  3. Comparative efficacy and safety of six antidepressants and anticonvulsants in painful diabetic neuropathy: a network meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Rudroju, Neelima; Bansal, Dipika; Talakokkula, Shiva Teja; Gudala, Kapil; Hota, Debasish; Bhansali, Anil; Ghai, Babita

    2013-01-01

    Anticonvulsants and antidepressants are mostly used in management of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). However there are few direct comparisons between drugs of these classes, making evidence-based decision-making in the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy difficult. This study aimed to perform a network meta-analysis and benefit-risk analysis to evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of these drugs in PDN treatment. Comparative effectiveness study. Medical Education and Research facility in India. A comprehensive data search was done in PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase up to August 2012. We then systematically reviewed the studies which compared any of 6 drugs for the management of PDN: amitriptyline, duloxetine, gabapentin, pregabalin, valproate, and venlafaxine or any of their combinations. We performed a random-effects network meta-analysis to rank treatments in terms of efficacy and safety. We chose the number of patients experiencing = 50% reduction in pain and number of patient withdrawals due to adverse events (AE) as primary outcomes for efficacy and safety, respectively. We also performed benefit-risk analysis, taking efficacy outcome as benefit and safety outcome as risk. Analysis was intention-to-treat. We included 21 published trials in the analysis. Duloxetine, gabapentin, pregabalin, and venlafaxine were shown to be significantly efficacious compared to placebo with odds ratios (OR) of 2.12, 3.98, 2.78, and 4.43, respectively. Amitriptyline (OR: 7.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.87, 29.05) and duloxetine (OR: 3.26, 95% CI: 1.04, 9.97) caused more withdrawals than gabapentin. The ranking order of efficacy was gabapentin, venlafaxine, pregabalin, duloxetine/gabapentin, duloxetine, amitriptyline, and placebo and the ranking order of safety was placebo, gabapentin, pregabalin, venlafaxine, duloxetine/gabapentin combination, duloxetine, and amitriptyline. Benefit-risk balance favored the order: gabapentin, venlafaxine, pregabalin, duloxetine/gabapentin combination, duloxetine, placebo, and amitriptyline. We could not include valproate in our analysis owing to the lack of studies reporting the dichotomous efficacy and safety outcomes. Gabapentin was found to be most efficacious and amitriptyline to be least safe among the treatments included in the study. Gabapentin showed most favorable balance between efficacy and safety.

  4. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (Snris) for fibromyalgia

    PubMed Central

    Welsch, Patrick; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Klose, Petra; Walitt, Brian; Häuser, Winfried

    2018-01-01

    Background Fibromyalgia is a clinically defined chronic condition of unknown etiology characterized by chronic widespread pain that often co-exists with sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often report high disability levels and poor quality of life. Drug therapy, for example, with serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), focuses on reducing key symptoms and improving quality of life. This review updates and extends the 2013 version of this systematic review. Objectives To assess the efficacy, tolerability and safety of serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) compared with placebo or other active drug(s) in the treatment of fibromyalgia in adults. Search methods For this update we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, the US National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for published and ongoing trials and examined the reference lists of reviewed articles, to 8 August 2017. Selection criteria We selected randomized, controlled trials of any formulation of SNRIs against placebo or any other active treatment of fibromyalgia in adults. Data collection and analysis Three review authors independently extracted data, examined study quality, and assessed risk of bias. For efficacy, we calculated the number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) for pain relief of 50% or greater and of 30% or greater, patient's global impression to be much or very much improved, dropout rates due to lack of efficacy, and the standardized mean differences (SMD) for fatigue, sleep problems, health-related quality of life, mean pain intensity, depression, anxiety, disability, sexual function, cognitive disturbances and tenderness. For tolerability we calculated number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) for withdrawals due to adverse events and for nausea, insomnia and somnolence as specific adverse events. For safety we calculated NNTH for serious adverse events. We undertook meta-analysis using a random-effects model. We assessed the evidence using GRADE and created a 'Summary of findings' table. Main results We added eight new studies with 1979 participants for a total of 18 included studies with 7903 participants. Seven studies investigated duloxetine and nine studies investigated milnacipran against placebo. One study compared desvenlafaxine with placebo and pregabalin. One study compared duloxetine with L-carnitine. The majority of studies were at unclear or high risk of bias in three to five domains. The quality of evidence of all comparisons of desvenlafaxine, duloxetine and milnacipran versus placebo in studies with a parallel design was low due to concerns about publication bias and indirectness, and very low for serious adverse events due to concerns about publication bias, imprecision and indirectness. The quality of evidence of all comparisons of duloxetine and desvenlafaxine with other active drugs was very low due to concerns about publication bias, imprecision and indirectness. Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit over placebo for pain relief of 50% or greater: 1274 of 4104 (31%) on duloxetine and milnacipran reported pain relief of 50% or greater compared to 591 of 2814 (21%) participants on placebo (risk difference (RD) 0.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07 to 0.11; NNTB 11, 95% CI 9 to 14). Duloxetine and milnacipran had a clinically relevant benefit over placebo in patient's global impression to be much or very much improved: 888 of 1710 (52%) on duloxetine and milnacipran (RD 0.19, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.26; NNTB 5, 95% CI 4 to 8) reported to be much or very much improved compared to 354 of 1208 (29%) of participants on placebo. Duloxetine and milnacipran had a clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo for pain relief of 30% or greater. RD was 0.10; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.12; NNTB 10, 95% CI 8 to 12. Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit for fatigue (SMD -0.13, 95% CI -0.18 to -0.08; NNTB 18, 95% CI 12 to 29), compared to placebo. There were no differences between either duloxetine or milnacipran and placebo in reducing sleep problems (SMD -0.07; 95 % CI -0.15 to 0.01). Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo in improving health-related quality of life (SMD -0.20, 95% CI -0.25 to -0.15; NNTB 11, 95% CI 8 to 14). There were 794 of 4166 (19%) participants on SNRIs who dropped out due to adverse events compared to 292 of 2863 (10%) of participants on placebo (RD 0.07, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.10; NNTH 14, 95% CI 10 to 25). There was no difference in serious adverse events between either duloxetine, milnacipran or desvenlafaxine and placebo (RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.00). There was no difference between desvenlafaxine and placebo in efficacy, tolerability and safety in one small trial. There was no difference between duloxetine and desvenlafaxine in efficacy, tolerability and safety in two trials with active comparators (L-carnitine, pregabalin). Authors' conclusions The update did not change the major findings of the previous review. Based on low- to very low-quality evidence, the SNRIs duloxetine and milnacipran provided no clinically relevant benefit over placebo in the frequency of pain relief of 50% or greater, but for patient's global impression to be much or very much improved and in the frequency of pain relief of 30% or greater there was a clinically relevant benefit. The SNRIs duloxetine and milnacipran provided no clinically relevant benefit over placebo in improving health-related quality of life and in reducing fatigue. Duloxetine and milnacipran did not significantly differ from placebo in reducing sleep problems. The dropout rates due to adverse events were higher for duloxetine and milnacipran than for placebo. On average, the potential benefits of duloxetine and milnacipran in fibromyalgia were outweighed by their potential harms. However, a minority of people with fibromyalgia might experience substantial symptom relief without clinically relevant adverse events with duloxetine or milnacipran. We did not find placebo-controlled studies with other SNRIs than desvenlafaxine, duloxetine and milnacipran. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors for fibromyalgia Bottom line Duloxetine and milnacipran may reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia. However, some of these people may also experience side effects, such as nausea (feeling sick) and drowsiness. A minority of people with fibromyalgia experience symptom relief without side effects from duloxetine and milnacipran. Background People with fibromyalgia often have chronic (longer than three months) widespread pain, as well as problems with sleep, thinking and exhaustion. They often report poor health-related quality of life. There is no cure for fibromyalgia at present, so the treatments aim to relieve the symptoms and to improve health-related quality of life. Serotonin and noradrenaline are chemicals which are produced by the human body, involved in the regulation of pain, sleep and mood. Low concentrations of serotonin have been reported in people with fibromyalgia. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are a class of antidepressants that increase the concentration of serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain. Study characteristics In August 2017, we updated our searches for clinical trials in which SNRIs were used to treat symptoms of fibromyalgia in adults. We found eight new studies since the previous version of the review. In total, we found 18 studies with 7903 participants. The studies were four to 27 weeks long and compared the SNRIs desvenlafaxine, duloxetine and milnacipran against a fake medication (placebo). We rated the quality of the evidence from studies using four levels: very low, low, moderate, or high. Very low-quality evidence means that we are very uncertain about the results. High-quality evidence means that we are very confident in the results. Key results and quality of the evidence Duloxetine and milnacipran were better than placebo in reducing pain by 50% or more and in improving global well-being (low-quality evidence). Duloxetine and milnacipran were better than placebo in improving health-related quality of life and in reducing fatigue (low-quality evidence). Duloxetine and milnacipran were not better than placebo in reducing sleep problems (low-quality evidence). More people dropped out of the trial due to side effects with duloxetine and milnacipran than with placebo (low-quality evidence). More people reported nausea and drowsiness with duloxetine and milnacipran than with placebo (low-quality evidence). Duloxetine, milnacipran and placebo did not differ in the frequency of serious side effects experienced (very low-quality evidence). PMID:29489029

  5. Analytic model comparing the cost utility of TVT versus duloxetine in women with urinary stress incontinence.

    PubMed

    Jacklin, Paul; Duckett, Jonathan; Renganathan, Arasee

    2010-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess cost utility of duloxetine versus tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) as a second-line treatment for urinary stress incontinence. A Markov model was used to compare the cost utility based on a 2-year follow-up period. Quality-adjusted life year (QALY) estimation was performed by assuming a disutility rate of 0.05. Under base-case assumptions, although duloxetine was a cheaper option, TVT gave a considerably higher QALY gain. When a longer follow-up period was considered, TVT had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of pound 7,710 ($12,651) at 10 years. If the QALY gain from cure was 0.09, then the ICER for duloxetine and TVT would both fall within the indicative National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence willingness to pay threshold at 2 years, but TVT would be the cost-effective option having extended dominance over duloxetine. This model suggests that TVT is a cost-effective treatment for stress incontinence.

  6. Total synthesis of fluoxetine and duloxetine through an in situ imine formation/borylation/transimination and reduction approach.

    PubMed

    Calow, Adam D J; Fernández, Elena; Whiting, Andrew

    2014-08-28

    We report efficient, catalytic, asymmetric total syntheses of both (R)-fluoxetine and (S)-duloxetine from α,β-unsaturated aldehydes conducting five sequential one-pot steps (imine formation/copper mediated β-borylation/transimination/reduction/oxidation) followed by the specific ether group formation which deliver the desired products (R)-fluoxetine in 45% yield (96% ee) and (S)-duloxetine in 47% yield (94% ee).

  7. Urinary retention during combined treatment of postpsychotic depression with duloxetine and olanzapine.

    PubMed

    Englisch, Susanne; Fritzinger, Michael; Zink, Mathias

    2008-01-01

    Duloxetine, a dual-reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine, has been approved for the treatment of major depressive episodes and for female stress urinary incontinence. At present, only sparse experiences are available regarding antidepressive treatment in patients with a psychotic lifetime diagnose, whereas this group of patients often suffer from major depressive episodes. Here, we describe the first case of a male patient with postpsychotic depression who developed the severe side effect of urinary retention during antidepressive treatment with duloxetine combined with olanzapine. After remission of his psychotic episode, the patient presented with depressed mood, psychomotor inhibition, sleep disturbance, and suicidal ideas. Without changing the antipsychotic therapy, we implemented duloxetine (60 mg/d) and the patient significantly improved. However, he increasingly suffered from obstructive voiding difficulties and complained about a weak urinary stream and incomplete voiding leading to unacceptable dribbling. The urinary retention disappeared completely within 1 week after discontinuation of duloxetine. We switched to venlafaxine (150 mg/d) and were able to keep the depression in remission. This case report demonstrates for the first time the onset of urinary retention in postpsychotic depression and during combined treatment with duloxetine and olanzapine. We therefore suggest increased attention on voiding function in particular if several pharmacological agents are combined.

  8. Acute and long-term treatment of late-life major depressive disorder: duloxetine versus placebo.

    PubMed

    Robinson, Michael; Oakes, Tina Myers; Raskin, Joel; Liu, Peng; Shoemaker, Scarlett; Nelson, J Craig

    2014-01-01

    To compare the efficacy of duloxetine with placebo on depression in elderly patients with major depressive disorder. Multicenter, 24-week (12-week short-term and 12-week continuation), randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. United States, France, Mexico, Puerto Rico. Age 65 years or more with major depressive disorder diagnosis (one or more previous episode); Mini-Mental State Examination score ≥20; Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale total score ≥20. Duloxetine 60 or 120 mg/day or placebo; placebo rescue possible. Primary-Maier subscale of the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) at week 12. Secondary-Geriatric Depression Scale, HAMD-17 total score, cognitive measures, Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), Numeric Rating Scales (NRS) for pain, Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale, Patient Global Impression of Improvement in acute phase and acute plus continuation phase of treatment. Compared with placebo, duloxetine did not show significantly greater improvement from baseline on Maier subscale at 12 weeks, but did show significantly greater improvement at weeks 4, 8, 16, and 20. Similar patterns for Geriatric Depression Scale and Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale emerged, with significance also seen at week 24. There was a significant treatment effect for all BPI items and 4 of 6 NRS pain measures in the acute phase, most BPI items and half of the NRS measures in the continuation phase. More duloxetine-treated patients completed the study (63% versus 55%). A significantly higher percentage of duloxetine-treated patients versus placebo discontinued due to adverse event (15.3% versus 5.8%). Although the antidepressant efficacy of duloxetine was not confirmed by the primary outcome, several secondary measures at multiple time points suggested efficacy. Duloxetine had significant and meaningful beneficial effects on pain. Copyright © 2014 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Synthesis and characterization of pharmaceutical surfactant templated mesoporous silica: Its application to controlled delivery of duloxetine

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mani, Ganesh; Pushparaj, Hemalatha; Peng, Mei Mei

    2014-03-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Usefulness of dual pharmaceutical surfactants in silica synthesis was evaluated. • Effects of concentration of secondary template (Tween-40) were studied. • Effects of fixed solvothermal condition on mesostructure formation were studied. • Duloxetine drug loading capability was studied. • Sustained release of duloxetine was evaluated. - Abstract: A new group of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were synthesized using combination pharmaceutical surfactants, Triton X-100 and Tween-40 as template and loaded with duloxetine hydrochloride (DX), for improving the sustained release of DX and patterns with high drug loading. Agglomerated spherical silica MSNs were synthesized by sol–gel andmore » solvothermal methods. The calcined and drug loaded MSNs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Braunner–Emmett–Teller (BET), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), diffuse reflectance ultraviolet–visible (DRS-UV–vis) spectroscopy. MSNs with high surface area and pore volume were selected and studied for their DX loading and release. The selected MSNs can accommodate a maximum of 34% DX within it. About 90% was released at 200 h and hence, the synthesized MSNs were capable of engulfing DX and sustain its release. Further form the Ritger and Peppas, Higuchi model for mechanism drug release from all the MSN matrices follows anomalous transport or Non-Fickian diffusion with the ‘r’ and ‘n’ value 0.9 and 0.45 < n < 1, respectively. So, from this study it could be concluded that the MSNs synthesized using pharmaceutical templates were better choice of reservoir for the controlled delivery of drug which requires sustained release.« less

  10. Duloxetine for the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Venezuela: economic evaluation.

    PubMed

    Carlos, Fernando; Espejel, Luis; Novick, Diego; López, Rubén; Flores, Daniel

    2015-09-25

    Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy affects 40-50% of patients with diabetic neuropathy, leading to impaired quality of life and substantial costs. Duloxetine and pregabalin have evidence-based support, and are formally approved for controlling painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. We used a 12-week decision model for examining painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy first-line therapy with daily doses of duloxetine 60mg or pregabalin 300mg, under the perspective of the Instituto Venezolano de los Seguros Sociales. We gathered model parameters from published literature and expert´s opinion, focusing on the magnitude of pain relief, the presence of adverse events, the possibility of withdrawal owing to intolerable adverse events or due to lack of efficacy, and the quality-adjusted life years expected in each strategy. We analyzed direct medical costs (which are expressed in Bolívares Fuertes, BsF) comprising drug acquisition besides additional care devoted to treatment of adverse events and poor pain relief. We conducted both deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Total expected costs per 1000 patients were BsF 1 046 146 (26%) lower with duloxetine than with pregabalin. Most of these savings (91%) corresponds to the difference in the acquisition’s cost of each medication. duloxetine also provided 23 more patients achieving good pain relief and a gain of about two quality-adjusted life years per 1000 treated. Model was robust to plausible changes in main parameters. Duloxetine remained the preferred option in 93.9% of the second-order Monte Carlo simulations. This study suggests duloxetine dominates (i.e., is more effective and lead to gains in quality-adjusted life years), remaining less costly than pregabalin for treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

  11. Cost-effectiveness of duloxetine versus routine treatment for U.S. patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Wu, Eric Q; Birnbaum, Howard G; Mareva, Milena N; Le, T Kim; Robinson, Rebecca L; Rosen, Amy; Gelwicks, Steve

    2006-06-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of duloxetine versus routine treatment in management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Two hundred thirty-three patients with DPNP who completed a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter duloxetine trial were re-randomized into a 52-week, open-label trial of duloxetine 60 mg twice daily versus routine treatment. Routine treatment included pain management therapies. Effectiveness was measured by using the bodily pain domain (BP) of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36). Costs were analyzed from 3 perspectives: third party payer (direct medical costs), employer (direct and indirect medical costs), and societal (patient's out-of-pocket costs and total medical costs). Costs of study medications were not included because of limited data. Bootstrap method was applied to calculate statistical inference of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Routine treatment most frequently used included gabapentin (56%), venlafaxine (36%), and amitripytline (15%). From employer and societal perspectives, duloxetine was cost-effective (ICER= -342 dollars and -429 dollars, respectively, per unit of SF-36 BP; both P

  12. Evaluation of anti-obesity activity of duloxetine in comparison with sibutramine along with its anti-depressant activity: an experimental study in obese rats.

    PubMed

    Chudasama, H P; Bhatt, P A

    2009-11-01

    5-HT and noradrenaline are important neurotransmitters that control increase in body mass and are involved in the pathophysiology of obesity and depression. Sibutramine, an established anti-obesity agent, and duloxetine, an anti-depressant agent, are serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). The objective of the present study was to compare the anti-obesity effect of duloxetine with sibutramine along with its effect on blood pressure and depression in obese rats. The secondary objective of the study was to determine if a relationship exists between obesity and depression. Obesity was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats. After 5 weeks of feeding HFD, animals were overweight (17.57%) with high food intake (57.15%) in comparison with normal animals. These obese animals were treated with duloxetine (30 mg x kg(-1), p.o.) and sibutramine (5 mg x kg(-1), p.o.) for 4 weeks. Control animals were treated with duloxetine alone (30 mg x kg(-1), p.o.). Our results depict that duloxetine was as effective as sibutramine in reducing food intake, body mass, and relative adiposity, and increasing rectal temperature with an added advantage of decreasing blood pressure, which sibutramine failed to do. Besides reduction in body mass, unlike sibutramine, duloxetine improved depressive state as evaluated by despair swimming test, tail suspension test, and open field test, speculating its use as an anti-obesity agent in obese-depressive animals. Since obese control animals reflected decreased locomotor activity, a positive relationship can be speculated to exist between obesity and depression. Further studies on various antidepressant models are required to confirm this relationship.

  13. A double blind, placebo controlled, phase II randomised cross-over trial investigating the use of duloxetine for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

    PubMed

    Battaglini, Eva; Park, Susanna B; Barnes, Elizabeth H; Goldstein, David

    2018-04-20

    Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a significant side effect of cancer treatment, potentially leading to early cessation of chemotherapy, enduring symptoms and long-lasting disability. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies suggests that duloxetine, a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, may be effective in the symptomatic treatment of CIPN. This double blind, placebo controlled, phase II randomised cross-over trial aims to determine whether treatment with duloxetine results in a reduction in chronic neuropathic symptoms experienced as a result of neurotoxic chemotherapy treatment. Participants who have received neurotoxic chemotherapy and experience daily symptoms as a consequence of peripheral neuropathy will be randomly allocated to control or experimental group with a 1:1 allocation, stratified by chemotherapy type. The primary endpoint will be patient-reported CIPN symptoms, as assessed via the FACT/GOG-Ntx. As a secondary objective, the trial will investigate whether duloxetine improves neurophysiological parameters and functional status in patients who have received neurotoxic chemotherapy treatment. This trial will investigate the effectiveness of duloxetine in reducing neuropathic symptoms following chemotherapy treatment, and aims to provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the symptomatic relief that duloxetine may provide. These results will be informative in advancing clinical knowledge regarding the treatment of CIPN. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Duloxetine in the treatment of binge eating disorder with depressive disorders: a placebo-controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Guerdjikova, Anna I; McElroy, Susan L; Winstanley, Erin L; Nelson, Eric B; Mori, Nicole; McCoy, Jessica; Keck, Paul E; Hudson, James I

    2012-03-01

    This study evaluated duloxetine in the treatment of binge eating disorder (BED) with comorbid current depressive disorders. In this 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 40 patients with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV-TR BED and a comorbid current depressive disorder received duloxetine (N = 20) or placebo (N = 20). The primary outcome measure was weekly binge eating day frequency. In the primary analysis, duloxetine (mean 78.7 mg/day) was superior to placebo in reducing weekly frequency of binge eating days (p = .04), binge eating episodes (p = .02), weight (p = .04), and Clinical Global Impression-Severity of Illness ratings for binge eating (p = .02) and depressive disorders (p = .01). Changes in body mass index and measures of eating pathology, depression, and anxiety did not differ between the two groups. Duloxetine may be effective for reducing binge eating, weight, and global severity of illness in BED with a comorbid current depressive disorder, but this finding needs confirmation in larger, placebo-controlled trials. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    Welsch, Patrick; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Klose, Petra; Walitt, Brian; Häuser, Winfried

    2018-02-28

    Fibromyalgia is a clinically defined chronic condition of unknown etiology characterized by chronic widespread pain that often co-exists with sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often report high disability levels and poor quality of life. Drug therapy, for example, with serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), focuses on reducing key symptoms and improving quality of life. This review updates and extends the 2013 version of this systematic review. To assess the efficacy, tolerability and safety of serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) compared with placebo or other active drug(s) in the treatment of fibromyalgia in adults. For this update we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, the US National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for published and ongoing trials and examined the reference lists of reviewed articles, to 8 August 2017. We selected randomized, controlled trials of any formulation of SNRIs against placebo or any other active treatment of fibromyalgia in adults. Three review authors independently extracted data, examined study quality, and assessed risk of bias. For efficacy, we calculated the number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) for pain relief of 50% or greater and of 30% or greater, patient's global impression to be much or very much improved, dropout rates due to lack of efficacy, and the standardized mean differences (SMD) for fatigue, sleep problems, health-related quality of life, mean pain intensity, depression, anxiety, disability, sexual function, cognitive disturbances and tenderness. For tolerability we calculated number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) for withdrawals due to adverse events and for nausea, insomnia and somnolence as specific adverse events. For safety we calculated NNTH for serious adverse events. We undertook meta-analysis using a random-effects model. We assessed the evidence using GRADE and created a 'Summary of findings' table. We added eight new studies with 1979 participants for a total of 18 included studies with 7903 participants. Seven studies investigated duloxetine and nine studies investigated milnacipran against placebo. One study compared desvenlafaxine with placebo and pregabalin. One study compared duloxetine with L-carnitine. The majority of studies were at unclear or high risk of bias in three to five domains.The quality of evidence of all comparisons of desvenlafaxine, duloxetine and milnacipran versus placebo in studies with a parallel design was low due to concerns about publication bias and indirectness, and very low for serious adverse events due to concerns about publication bias, imprecision and indirectness. The quality of evidence of all comparisons of duloxetine and desvenlafaxine with other active drugs was very low due to concerns about publication bias, imprecision and indirectness.Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit over placebo for pain relief of 50% or greater: 1274 of 4104 (31%) on duloxetine and milnacipran reported pain relief of 50% or greater compared to 591 of 2814 (21%) participants on placebo (risk difference (RD) 0.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07 to 0.11; NNTB 11, 95% CI 9 to 14). Duloxetine and milnacipran had a clinically relevant benefit over placebo in patient's global impression to be much or very much improved: 888 of 1710 (52%) on duloxetine and milnacipran (RD 0.19, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.26; NNTB 5, 95% CI 4 to 8) reported to be much or very much improved compared to 354 of 1208 (29%) of participants on placebo. Duloxetine and milnacipran had a clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo for pain relief of 30% or greater. RD was 0.10; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.12; NNTB 10, 95% CI 8 to 12. Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit for fatigue (SMD -0.13, 95% CI -0.18 to -0.08; NNTB 18, 95% CI 12 to 29), compared to placebo. There were no differences between either duloxetine or milnacipran and placebo in reducing sleep problems (SMD -0.07; 95 % CI -0.15 to 0.01). Duloxetine and milnacipran had no clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo in improving health-related quality of life (SMD -0.20, 95% CI -0.25 to -0.15; NNTB 11, 95% CI 8 to 14).There were 794 of 4166 (19%) participants on SNRIs who dropped out due to adverse events compared to 292 of 2863 (10%) of participants on placebo (RD 0.07, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.10; NNTH 14, 95% CI 10 to 25). There was no difference in serious adverse events between either duloxetine, milnacipran or desvenlafaxine and placebo (RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.00).There was no difference between desvenlafaxine and placebo in efficacy, tolerability and safety in one small trial.There was no difference between duloxetine and desvenlafaxine in efficacy, tolerability and safety in two trials with active comparators (L-carnitine, pregabalin). The update did not change the major findings of the previous review. Based on low- to very low-quality evidence, the SNRIs duloxetine and milnacipran provided no clinically relevant benefit over placebo in the frequency of pain relief of 50% or greater, but for patient's global impression to be much or very much improved and in the frequency of pain relief of 30% or greater there was a clinically relevant benefit. The SNRIs duloxetine and milnacipran provided no clinically relevant benefit over placebo in improving health-related quality of life and in reducing fatigue. Duloxetine and milnacipran did not significantly differ from placebo in reducing sleep problems. The dropout rates due to adverse events were higher for duloxetine and milnacipran than for placebo. On average, the potential benefits of duloxetine and milnacipran in fibromyalgia were outweighed by their potential harms. However, a minority of people with fibromyalgia might experience substantial symptom relief without clinically relevant adverse events with duloxetine or milnacipran.We did not find placebo-controlled studies with other SNRIs than desvenlafaxine, duloxetine and milnacipran.

  16. Duloxetine, an antidepressant with analgesic properties – a preliminary analysis

    PubMed Central

    Onuţu, Adela Hilda

    2015-01-01

    Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are second-line antidepressants largely used because of their good tolerance and their reduced side effects. Two of these drugs, duloxetine and venlafaxine, are used also in chronic pain management. In this review we present recent data regarding duloxetine’s effects on the central nervous system, linked to acute pain management, and their efficiency in reducing postoperative chronic pain. The drug’s efficacy results from its modulating effect on the descending inhibitory pain pathways and the inhibition of the nociceptive input. There are already several studies in favor of the analgesic properties of duloxetine. However, further and larger randomized studies are necessary in order to clarify duloxetine efficiency in acute postoperative settings, and thereafter on persistent chronic postoperative pain. PMID:28913467

  17. Direct medical costs and medication compliance among fibromyalgia patients: duloxetine initiators vs. pregabalin initiators.

    PubMed

    Sun, Peter; Peng, Xiaomei; Sun, Steve; Novick, Diego; Faries, Douglas E; Andrews, Jeffrey S; Wohlreich, Madelaine M; Wu, Andrew

    2014-01-01

    To assess and compare direct medical costs and medication compliance between patients with fibromyalgia who initiated duloxetine and patients with fibromyalgia who initiated pregabalin in 2008. A retrospective cohort study design was used based on a large US national commercial claims database (2006 to 2009). Patients with fibromyalgia aged 18 to 64 who initiated duloxetine or pregabalin in 2008 and who had continuous health insurance 1 year preceding and 1 year following the initiation were selected into duloxetine cohort or pregabalin cohort based on their initiated agent. Medication compliance was measured by total supply days, medication possession ratio (MPR), and proportion of patients with MPR ≥ 0.8. Direct medical costs were measured by annual costs per patient and compared between the cohorts in the year following the initiation. Propensity score stratification and bootstrapping methods were used to adjust for distribution bias, as well as cross-cohort differences in demographic, clinical and economic characteristics, and medication history prior to the initiation. Both the duloxetine (n = 3,033) and pregabalin (n = 4,838) cohorts had a mean initiation age around 49 years, 89% were women. During the postindex year, compared to the pregabalin cohort, the duloxetine cohort had higher totally annual supply days (273.5 vs. 176.6, P < 0.05), higher MPR (0.7 vs. 0.5, P < 0.05), and more patients with MPR ≥ 0.8 (45.1% vs. 29.4%, P < 0.05). Further, relative to pregabalin cohort, duloxetine cohort had lower inpatient costs ($2,994.9 vs. $4,949.6, P < 0.05), lower outpatient costs ($8,259.6 vs. $10,312.2, P < 0.05), similar medication costs ($5,214.6 vs. $5,290.8, P > 0.05), and lower total medical costs ($16,469.1 vs. $20,552.6, P < 0.05) in the postinitiation year. In a real-world setting, patients with fibromyalgia who initiated duloxetine in 2008 had better medication compliance and consumed less inpatient, outpatient, and total medical costs than those who initiated pregabalin. © 2013 The Authors Pain Practice © 2013 World Institute of Pain.

  18. Predictors of pain medication selection among patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    Boulanger, Luke; Wu, Ning; Chen, Shih-Yin; Nagar, Saurabh; Fraser, Kimberly; Bernauer, Mark J; Zhao, Zhenxiang; Zhao, Yang

    2012-04-01

    Several pharmacologic therapies have been recommended for managing fibromyalgia. However, the factors associated with each treatment initiation have not been well established. This study assessed factors that were associated with the use of duloxetine vs. other pain medications among patients with fibromyalgia. Administrative claims from a large, U.S. commercially insured population were analyzed using a retrospective cohort design. Patients with fibromyalgia who were 18 to 64 years old and initiated duloxetine vs. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), venlafaxine, gabapentin, pregabalin, tramadol, or nontramadol opioids between January 1, 2007 and December 12, 2008 were selected. Treatment initiation was defined as no access to the same medication over the previous 90 days, with the most recent initiation date as the index date. All patients selected had at least one fibromyalgia diagnosis (ICD-9-CM: 729.1) in the 12 months prior to initiation of each study medication. Multiple logistic regression models were estimated to assess the predictors of initiating duloxetine vs. each of the other medications. The study included 117,305 patients with fibromyalgia (48 years of age on average; 76% women) who initiated duloxetine (n = 5,827), SSRIs (n = 8,620), TCAs (n = 5,424), venlafaxine (n = 2,038), gabapentin (n = 5,733), pregabalin (n = 11,152), tramadol (n = 7,312), or nontramadol opioids (n = 71,199). Common fibromyalgia-related comorbidities were low back pain (31% to 49%), osteoarthritis (14% to 21%), and sleep disturbance (10% to 15%). Controlling for demographic and clinical characteristics, patients who received pregabalin in the prior 12-month period were more likely to initiate duloxetine. Patients from other treatment cohorts, except for those in the pregabalin and nontramadol opioid cohorts, were more likely to re-initiate the same prior medication than to begin treatment with duloxetine. Other predictors of duloxetine initiation included history of rheumatoid and sleep disturbance. The presence of select comorbidities and prior use of certain medications were associated with the duloxetine initiation among working-age, commercially insured patients with fibromyalgia. © 2011 The Authors. Pain Practice © 2011 World Institute of Pain.

  19. Rescue Pharmacotherapy With Duloxetine for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Nonresponders in Late-Life Depression: Outcome and Tolerability

    PubMed Central

    Karp, Jordan F.; Whyte, Ellen M.; Lenze, Eric J.; Dew, Mary A.; Begley, Amy; Miller, Mark D.; Reynolds, Charles F.

    2010-01-01

    Background Up to 50% of depressed older adults either do not adequately respond to or are unable to tolerate treatment with a serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitor. On the basis of previous experience with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, we predicted at least a 50% response rate to open-label treatment with duloxetine in subjects who were resistant to treatment with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) escitalopram. Method Community-dwelling subjects aged 65 years or older with current nonpsychotic major depressive disorder as established by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV received escitalopram under protocolized conditions between April 2004 and September 2006. Subjects who failed to meet response criteria or relapsed after achieving an initial response were subsequently switched to open treatment with duloxetine up to 120 mg/day. Side effects were assessed at every visit. Results Subjects (N = 40) switched to duloxetine had a mean (SD) age of 74.4 (7.0) years and a baseline (before escitalopram) 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D-17) score of 20.0 (3.5) and were predominantly female (65.0%) and white (82.5%). The mean (SD) maximum dose of duloxetine was 93.0 (27.8) mg/day. Subjects received this maximum dose for a median duration of 6.9 weeks. Fifty percent of subjects (N = 20) met criteria for full response, 17.5% (N = 7) were partial responders, and 32.5% (N = 13) did not respond. The median time to response was 12.0 weeks (95% CI = 8.4 to 14.6). Five of the subjects (12.5%) discontinued duloxetine because of intolerable side effects. Discussion These open-label data suggest that duloxetine at doses up to 120 mg/day is a well-tolerated and potentially effective treatment for older adults who fail to respond to an adequate trial of an SSRI. These results are preliminary, and future controlled studies are required to test the efficacy of rescue pharmacotherapy with duloxetine. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00177671 PMID:18251622

  20. Duloxetine in the long-term management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: An open-label, 52-week extension of a randomized controlled clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Wernicke, Joachim F; Raskin, Joel; Rosen, Amy; Pritchett, Yili L; D'Souza, Deborah N; Iyengar, Smriti; Knopp, Kelly; Le, Trong K

    2006-09-01

    Duloxetine hydrochloride, a selective serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibitor, is relatively balanced in its affinity for both 5-HT and NE reuptake inhibition and is the first US Food and Drug Administration-approved prescription drug for the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). The aim of this study was to determine whether management of DPNP with duloxetine interferes with the treatment of diabetes. It also examined the tolerability of long-term exposure to duloxetine with regard to the progression of diabetic complications, and assessed the impact of DPNP management with duloxetine versus routine care. This was a 52-week, multicenter, re-randomized, open-label extension of a parallel, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, acute (12-week) study. Patients who completed the duloxetine or placebo acute treatment period were randomly reassigned in a 2:1 ratio to treatment with duloxetine 60 mg BID or routine care for an additional 52 weeks. The study included male and female outpatients aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of DPNP caused by type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Over the course of the 52-week study, visits were scheduled on the following weeks (of the extension phase of the study): 1 (via phone only), 2, 4, 8, 12, 20, 28, 40, and 52. Tolerability was assessed by review and analyses of discontinuation rates, adverse events (AEs), laboratory data, vital signs, electrocardiographic results, concomitant medications, and diabetic complications. Treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) were defined as AEs that appeared during therapy (were not present at baseline) or were exacerbated during treatment. Data on AEs and concomitant medications were collected at every visit. Data on blood pressure, heart rate, and significant hypoglycemic events were collected at every visit starting from week 2. Fasting clinical chemistry and electrolyte group laboratory assessments were done at every visit, starting from week 4. Electrocardiographic data was collected at weeks 4 and 52, and glycosylated hemoglobin and lipid profile data were collected at weeks 20 and 52. Hematology and urinalysis laboratory assessments and diabetic complication assessments were done at week 52. All safety data was assessed in cases of early discontinuation. Treatment differences on quality of life (QOL) were compared using the Short Form-36 Health Status Survey (SF-36) and the EQ-5D instrument of the European Health-Related Quality of Life Measures. This was assessed at the last visit or at early discontinuation. The open-label extension-phase study included 337 patients (duloxetine, n = 222; routine care, n = 115). For the duloxetine group, mean age was 60.2 years, 61.3% were male, and 78.4% were white. For the routine-care group, mean age was 58.9 years, 60.0% were male, and 74.8% were white. Mean weight was 95.3 kg for both groups. None of the TEAEs occurred significantly more often in the duloxetine-treated group than in the routine-care-treated group. No TEAEs were reported by >10% of patients in the duloxetine group. The TEAEs reported by >10% of patients in the routine-care group included dizziness (11.3%), somnolence (13.0%), headache (10.4%), and vomiting (10.4%). No significant differences were found between treatment groups in the occurrence of serious AEs or in the number of patients discontinuing because of AEs. Duloxetine was significantly better than routine care on the bodily pain subscale of the SF-36 (mean change: 1.5 vs -4.1; P= 0.021) and on the EQ-5D (mean change: -0.00 vs -0.09; P = 0.001). Over 52 weeks of follow-up, treatment of these diabetic patients with duloxetine for peripheral neuropathic pain was associated with outcomes similar to, or significantly better than, that of routine care on most measures of tolerability, diabetic complications, and QOL.

  1. Duloxetine in the long-term management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: An open-label, 52-week extension of a randomized controlled clinical trial

    PubMed Central

    Wernicke, Joachim F.; Raskin, Joel; Rosen, Amy; Pritchett, Yili L.; D'Souza, Deborah N.; Iyengar, Smriti; Knopp, Kelly; Le, Trong K.

    2006-01-01

    Background: Duloxetine hydrochloride, a selective serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibitor, is relatively balanced in its affinity for both 5-HT and NE reuptake inhibition and is the first US Food and Drug Administration-approved prescription drug for the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether management of DPNP with duloxetine interferes with the treatment of diabetes. It also examined the tolerability of long-term exposure to duloxetine with regard to the progression of diabetic complications, and assessed the impact of DPNP management with duloxetine versus routine care. Methods: This was a 52-week, multicenter, re-randomized, open-label extension of a parallel, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, acute (12-week) study. Patients who completed the duloxetine or placebo acute treatment period were randomly reassigned in a 2:1 ratio to treatment with duloxetine 60 mg BID or routine care for an additional 52 weeks. The study included male and female outpatients aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of DPNP caused by type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Over the course of the 52-week study, visits were scheduled on the following weeks (of the extension phase of the study): 1 (via phone only), 2, 4, 8, 12, 20, 28, 40, and 52. Tolerability was assessed by review and analyses of discontinuation rates, adverse events (AEs), laboratory data, vital signs, electrocardiographic results, concomitant medications, and diabetic complications. Treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs) were defined as AEs that appeared during therapy (were not present at baseline) or were exacerbated during treatment. Data on AEs and concomitant medications were collected at every visit. Data on blood pressure, heart rate, and significant hypoglycemic events were collected at every visit starting from week 2. Fasting clinical chemistry and electrolyte group laboratory assessments were done at every visit, starting from week 4. Electrocardiographic data was collected at weeks 4 and 52, and glycosylated hemoglobin and lipid profile data were collected at weeks 20 and 52. Hematology and urinalysis laboratory assessments and diabetic complication assessments were done at week 52. All safety data was assessed in cases of early discontinuation. Treatment differences on quality of life (QOL) were compared using the Short Form-36 Health Status Survey (SF-36) and the EQ-5D instrument of the European Health-Related Quality of Life Measures. This was assessed at the last visit or at early discontinuation. Results: The open-label extension-phase study included 337 patients (duloxetine, n = 222; routine care, n = 115). For the duloxetine group, mean age was 60.2 years, 61.3% were male, and 78.4% were white. For the routine-care group, mean age was 58.9 years, 60.0% were male, and 74.8% were white. Mean weight was 95.3 kg for both groups. None of the TEAEs occurred significantly more often in the duloxetine-treated group than in the routine-care-treated group. No TEAEs were reported by >10% of patients in the duloxetine group. The TEAEs reported by >10% of patients in the routine-care group included dizziness (11.3%), somnolence (13.0%), headache (10.4%), and vomiting (10.4%). No significant differences were found between treatment groups in the occurrence of serious AEs or in the number of patients discontinuing because of AEs. Duloxetine was significantly better than routine care on the bodily pain subscale of the SF-36 (mean change: 1.5 vs −4.1; P= 0.021) and on the EQ-5D (mean change: −0.00 vs −0.09; P = 0.001). Conclusions: Over 52 weeks of follow-up, treatment of these diabetic patients with duloxetine for peripheral neuropathic pain was associated with outcomes similar to, or significantly better than, that of routine care on most measures of tolerability, diabetic complications, and QOL. PMID:24678103

  2. Early effects of duloxetine on emotion recognition in healthy volunteers

    PubMed Central

    Bamford, Susan; Penton-Voak, Ian; Pinkney, Verity; Baldwin, David S; Munafò, Marcus R; Garner, Matthew

    2015-01-01

    The serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine is an effective treatment for major depression and generalised anxiety disorder. Neuropsychological models of antidepressant drug action suggest therapeutic effects might be mediated by the early correction of maladaptive biases in emotion processing, including the recognition of emotional expressions. Sub-chronic administration of duloxetine (for two weeks) produces adaptive changes in neural circuitry implicated in emotion processing; however, its effects on emotional expression recognition are unknown. Forty healthy participants were randomised to receive either 14 days of duloxetine (60 mg/day, titrated from 30 mg after three days) or matched placebo (with sham titration) in a double-blind, between-groups, repeated-measures design. On day 0 and day 14 participants completed a computerised emotional expression recognition task that measured sensitivity to the six primary emotions. Thirty-eight participants (19 per group) completed their course of tablets and were included in the analysis. Results provide evidence that duloxetine, compared to placebo, may reduce the accurate recognition of sadness. Drug effects were driven by changes in participants’ ability to correctly detect subtle expressions of sadness, with greater change observed in the placebo relative to the duloxetine group. These effects occurred in the absence of changes in mood. Our preliminary findings require replication, but complement recent evidence that sadness recognition is a therapeutic target in major depression, and a mechanism through which SNRIs could resolve negative biases in emotion processing to achieve therapeutic effects. PMID:25759400

  3. Clinical study of duloxetine hydrochloride combined with doxazosin for the treatment of pain disorder in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: An observational study.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Mingxin; Li, Hanzhong; Ji, Zhigang; Dong, Dexin; Yan, Su

    2017-03-01

    To explore the safety and efficacy of the selective 5-serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine hydrochloride and alpha-adrenergic receptor blocker (alpha-blocker) doxazosin mesylate-controlled tablets in the treatment of pain disorder in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).In all, 150 patients were enrolled and 126 patients completed the study (41 patients in the doxazosin group, 41 patients in the sertraline group, and 44 patients in the duloxetine group). This was an open randomized 6-month study. CP/CPPS patients who met the diagnostic criteria were randomized into 3 groups. The patients in the duloxetine group received doxazosin 4 mg + duloxetine 30 mg once a day, and the dosage of duloxetine was increased to 60 mg after a week. The patients in the doxazosin group received doxazosin 4 mg once a day. The patients in the sertraline group received doxazosin 4 mg + sertraline 50 mg once a day. National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) score, the short-form McGill Pain questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HAD) were applied for evaluations during follow-up of 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment.There were slight positive significant correlations between NIH-CPSI scores and HAD scores, moderate positive significant correlations between the quality of life (QOL) and SF-MPQ, and slight positive significant correlations between HAD and QOL. The effective rate in the doxazosin group was 4.88%, 19.51%, and 56.10% after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The SF-MPQ score in the doxazosin group decreased to 1.80 ± 1.29, 2.66 ± 1.57, and 3.24 ± 1.67 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The HAD score in the doxazosin group decreased to 2.24 ± 2.17, 4 ± 2.11, and 4.90 ± 2.62 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The effective rate in the sertraline group was 9.76%, 36.59%, and 63.41% after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The SF-MPQ score in the sertraline group decreased to 1.76 ± 1.28, 3.07 ± 2, and 3.93 ± 2.53 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The HAD score in the sertraline group decreased to 3.56 ± 4.11, 5.73 ± 5.26, and 7.27 ± 6.50 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The effective rate in the duloxetine group was 36.36%, 88.64%, and 88.64% after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The SF-MPQ score in the duloxetine group decreased to 3.61 ± 2.54, 6.05 ± 3.66, and 7.41 ± 4.26 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). The HAD score in the duloxetine group decreased to 3.14 ± 3.28, 6.93 ± 3.90, and 9.43 ± 4.67 after 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in the reduction of the NIH-CPSI score and the SF-MPQ score between the duloxetine group and the sertraline group and between the duloxetine group and the doxazosin group (P < 0.01). There were significant differences in the reduction of the HAD score at 3 months between the duloxetine group and the doxazosin group, and there were significant differences in the reduction of the HAD score at 6 months among the groups (P < 0.05). The incidence rates of adverse reactions in the duloxetine group, the sertraline group, and the duloxetine group were 29.5%, 17%, and 7.3%, respectively, with adverse events ranging from mild to moderate.There was a clear relationship between the extent of pain and mental factors in CP/CPPS with the main symptom of pain. Doxazosin combined with duloxetine exhibited good safety and efficacy in the treatment of pain disorder in CP/CPPS.

  4. Impact of pretreatment with antidepressants on the efficacy of duloxetine in terms of mood symptoms and functioning: an analysis of 15 pooled major depressive disorder studies.

    PubMed

    Barros, Bruno R; Schacht, Alexander; Happich, Michael; Televantou, Foula; Berggren, Lovisa; Walker, Daniel J; Dueñas, Hector J

    2014-01-01

    This post hoc analysis aimed to determine whether patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in duloxetine trials who were antidepressant naive or who were previously exposed to antidepressants exhibited differences in efficacy and functioning. Data were pooled from 15 double-blind, placebo- and/or active-controlled duloxetine trials of adult patients with MDD conducted by Eli Lilly and Company. The individual studies took place between March 2000 and November 2009. Data were analyzed using 4 pretreatment subgroups: first-episode never treated, multiple-episode never treated, treated previously only with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and previously treated with antidepressants other than just SSRIs. Measures included the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17) total and somatic symptom subscale scores, Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score, and Sheehan Disability Scale total score. Response rates (50% and 30%) were based on the HDRS-17 total score and remission rates on either the HDRS-17 or MADRS total score. Response and remission rates were significantly greater (P < .05 in 11 of 12 comparisons) for duloxetine versus placebo in the 4 subgroups. A trend of greater response and remission occurred for first-episode versus multiple-episode patients; both groups were generally higher than the antidepressant-treated groups. Mean changes in efficacy measures were mostly significantly greater (P < .05 in 13 of 16 comparisons) for duloxetine versus placebo within each pretreatment subgroup, with some (P < .05 in 2 of 24 comparisons) significant interaction effects between subgroups on HDRS-17 total and somatic symptoms scores. Duloxetine was generally superior to placebo on response and remission rates and in mean change on efficacy measures. Response and remission rates were numerically greater for first-episode versus multiple-episode and drug-treated patients. Mean change differences on efficacy measures among the 4 subgroups were inconsistent. Duloxetine showed a similar therapeutic effect independent of episode frequency and antidepressant pretreatment.

  5. An open treatment trial of duloxetine in elderly patients with dysthymic disorder.

    PubMed

    Kerner, Nancy; D'Antonio, Kristina; Pelton, Gregory H; Salcedo, Elianny; Ferrar, Jennifer; Roose, Steven P; Devanand, Dp

    2014-05-08

    We evaluated the efficacy and side effects of the selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant duloxetine in older adults with dysthymic disorder. Patients ≥ 60 years old with dysthymic disorder received flexible dose duloxetine 20-120 mg daily in an open-label 12-week trial. The main outcomes were change from baseline to 12 weeks in 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores and Treatment Emergent Symptoms Scale scores. Response required ≥ 50% decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores with a Clinical Global Impression of much improved or better, and remission required final Hamilton Depression Rating Scale ≤ 6. Intent-to-treat analyses were conducted with the last observation carried forward. In 30 patients, the mean age was 70.7 (standard deviation (SD) = 7.6) years and 56.7% were female. In intent-to-treat analyses, there were 16 responders (53.3%) and 10 remitters (33.3%). Of these, 19 patients completed the trial. The mean maximum dose was 76.3 mg (SD = 38.5) in the total sample and 101 mg (SD = 17.9) in completers. In the total sample, the mean final dose was 51 mg (SD = 27.2) and correlated significantly with decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale ( p < .03); decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale correlated significantly with decline in Treatment Emergent Symptoms Scale ( p < .001). Daily doses above 60 mg were associated with greater improvement and well tolerated. This result was partly confounded by early dropouts having received low doses. Demographic and medical comorbidities, including cardiac disease and hypertension, were not related to response. Somatic side effects were common prior to duloxetine treatment and improved rather than worsened with duloxetine. There were no serious adverse events. Duloxetine at relatively high doses showed moderate efficacy in elderly patients with dysthymic disorder and was well tolerated in successful completers. Reduced somatic symptoms were associated with improvement in depressive symptoms. A systematic placebo-controlled trial of duloxetine in older patients with dysthymic disorder may be warranted.

  6. Duloxetine treatment adherence across mental health and chronic pain conditions

    PubMed Central

    Able, Stephen L; Cui, Zhanglin; Shen, Wei

    2014-01-01

    Purpose This study applied a uniform methodology for measuring and comparing duloxetine adherence in the treatment of multiple chronic medical conditions. Materials and methods Study patients 18–64 years of age initiating duloxetine therapy during 2008 were identified from a large managed care database. The study was restricted to patients with continuous health plan eligibility for 12 months pre- and post-duloxetine initiation. Study patients had ≥1 medical claim with an inpatient or outpatient diagnosis of one (and only one) of the following conditions: major depressive disorder (MDD); generalized anxiety disorder (GAD); fibromyalgia, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain; or chronic musculoskeletal pain, as established in studies in patients with osteoarthritis and chronic lower back pain (CLBP). Patients initiating duloxetine who had two or more of the six studied conditions were not included in this study, thereby avoiding the need to differentiate between primary and secondary diagnoses from the claims records. Adherence rate was defined as the percentage of patients with a 365-day medication possession ratio ≥0.8. Results A total of 20,490 patients initiated duloxetine treatment during 2008 with a diagnosis of one of the studied conditions during the study period. The adherence rate in our sample was 34.6% and was highest among patients with MDD (37.3%) and lowest for patients with CLBP (29.9%). In general, adherence among patients with MDD and GAD was greater than among those with a chronic pain condition. Conclusion Adherence among newly initiated duloxetine patients varied modestly across the medical conditions for which it was used. After adjusting for potential confounders, differences between the mental conditions (MDD and GAD) and the chronic pain conditions (CLBP, osteoarthritis, and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain) were statistically significant. These results may be useful in the determination of expectations of adherence, and how it may differ for each of the conditions studied. PMID:24596469

  7. Impact of Age and Polytherapy on Fingolimod Induced Bradycardia: a Preclinical Study.

    PubMed

    Ritter, Christian; Svačina, Martin K R; Bobylev, Ilja; Joshi, Abhijeet; Schneider, Toni; Lehmann, Helmar C

    2017-03-01

    Fingolimod is a an oral disease modifying drug for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) preventing egress of B and T cells from lymph nodes. Relevant first dose adverse events include bradycardia and atrioventricular conduction slowing. Cardiac side effects of fingolimod and combinational pharmacotherapy including duloxetine and tolterodine were monitored in mice of different age using implantable ECG telemetric systems. Cardiac tissue was assessed for S1P-receptor subtype (1 and 3), and for GIRK1 expression. Fingolimod led to a significant heart rate reduction within 60 min, which returned to baseline values within 24 h. In older mice bradycardia was more pronounced compared to younger mice. Atrioventricular conduction was not affected. Older mice showed a higher S1PR3 expression in a naïve state and receptor expression was reduced after fingolimod administration. Combination with duloxetine or tolterodine alleviated fingolimod induced heart rate decrease. Our data provide preclinical evidence that negative chronotropic effects of fingolimod might be age dependent, possibly due to an altered expression and internalization of cardiac S1PR3 in older animals. This data could be relevant for future clinical monitoring and patient selection in the aging MS population. Combinational therapies of fingolimod and duloxetine or tolterodine are well tolerated and safe without an increased risk for pronounced bradycardia or arrhythmia.

  8. Clinical consequences of initial duloxetine dosing strategies: Comparison of 30 and 60 mg QD starting doses

    PubMed Central

    Dunner, David L.; Wohlreich, Madelaine M.; Mallinckrodt, Craig H.; Watkin, John G.; Fava, Maurizio

    2005-01-01

    Background: To reduce the risk for treatment-emergent adverse events and increase patient compliance, clinicians frequently prescribe a suboptimal starting dose of antidepressants, with the goal of increasing the dose once the patient has demonstrated tolerability. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the tolerability and effectiveness associated with an initial week of duloxetine hydrochloride treatment at 30 mg QD and subsequent dose increase to 60 mg QD, compared with a starting dose of 60 mg QD. Methods: In this open-label study, all patients met the criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Patients were required to wash out from previous antidepressant medications for 21 days, and were then randomized to receive duloxetine 30 or 60 mg QD for 1 week. After 1 week, patients receiving duloxetine 30 mg QD had their dose increased to 60 mg QD. Patients returned for assessments at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12. During the remainder of the 12-week study period, the duloxetine dose could be titrated based on the degree of response from 60 mg QD (minimum) to 120 mg QD (maximum), with 90 mg QD as an intermediate dose. Tolerability was assessed by means of discontinuation rates, spontaneously reported adverse events, changes in vital signs, and laboratory tests. Effectiveness measures included the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD17) total score, HAMD17 core and Maier subscales, individual HAMD17 items, the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety total score, and the Clinical Global Impression of Severity. Results: One hundred thirty-seven patients were enrolled (82 women, 55 men; mean age, 42 years; duloxetine 30 mg QD, 67 patients; duloxetine 60 mg QD, 70 patients). The rate of discontinuation due to adverse events did not differ significantly between patients starting duloxetine at 30 mg QD and 60 mg QD (13.4% vs 18.6%). The most frequently reported adverse events across both treatment groups were nausea, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, and diarrhea. In the first week of treatment, patients receiving duloxetine 30 mg QD had a significantly lower rate of nausea compared with patients receiving 60 mg QD (16.4% vs 32.9%; P = 0.03). Over the 12-week acute-treatment phase, patients starting duloxetine treatment at 30 mg QD had a significantly lower rate of nausea compared with patients initiating treatment at 60 mg QD (P = 0.047). Although between-group differences in the HAMD17 total score were not statistically significant at any visit, patients starting at 30 mg QD experienced significantly less improvement in HAMD17 core and Maier subscales at week 1 compared with patients starting at 60 mg QD (core, P= 0.044; Maier, P = 0.047). After 2 weeks of treatment, the magnitude of improvement among patients starting at 30 mg QD did not differ significantly from that observed in patients who started treatment at 60 mg QD, and there were no significant between-group differences in effectiveness at any subsequent visit. Conclusions: Results from this open-label study in patients with MDD suggest that starting duloxetine treatment at 30 mg QD for 1 week, followed by escalation to 60 mg QD, might reduce the risk for treatment-emergent nausea in these patients while producing only a transitory impact on effectiveness compared with a starting dose of 60 mg QD. PMID:24678074

  9. Typology of patients with fibromyalgia: cluster analysis of duloxetine study patients.

    PubMed

    Lipkovich, Ilya A; Choy, Ernest H; Van Wambeke, Peter; Deberdt, Walter; Sagman, Doron

    2014-12-23

    To identify distinct groups of patients with fibromyalgia (FM) with respect to multiple outcome measures. Data from 631 duloxetine-treated women in 4 randomized, placebo-controlled trials were included in a cluster analysis based on outcomes after up to 12 weeks of treatment. Corresponding classification rules were constructed using a classification tree method. Probabilities for transitioning from baseline to Week 12 category were estimated for placebo and duloxetine patients (Ntotal = 1188) using logistic regression. Five clusters were identified, from "worst" (high pain levels and severe mental/physical impairment) to "best" (low pain levels and nearly normal mental/physical function). For patients with moderate overall severity, mental and physical symptoms were less correlated, resulting in 2 distinct clusters based on these 2 symptom domains. Three key variables with threshold values were identified for classification of patients: Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) pain interference overall scores of <3.29 and <7.14, respectively, a Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) interference with work score of <2, and an FIQ depression score of ≥5. Patient characteristics and frequencies per baseline category were similar between treatments; >80% of patients were in the 3 worst categories. Duloxetine patients were significantly more likely to improve after 12 weeks than placebo patients. A sustained effect was seen with continued duloxetine treatment. FM patients are heterogeneous and can be classified into distinct subgroups by simple descriptive rules derived from only 3 variables, which may guide individual patient management. Duloxetine showed higher improvement rates than placebo and had a sustained effect beyond 12 weeks.

  10. Are there different predictors of analgesic response between antidepressants and anticonvulsants in painful diabetic neuropathy?

    PubMed

    Marchettini, P; Wilhelm, S; Petto, H; Tesfaye, S; Tölle, T; Bouhassira, D; Freynhagen, R; Cruccu, G; Lledó, A; Choy, E; Kosek, E; Micó, J A; Späth, M; Skljarevski, V; Lenox-Smith, A; Perrot, S

    2016-03-01

    To investigate baseline demographics and disease characteristics as predictors of the analgesic effect of duloxetine and pregabalin on diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Based on data from the COMBO-DN study, a multinational clinical trial in DPNP, the potential impact of baseline characteristics on pain relief after 8-week monotherapy with 60 mg/day duloxetine or 300 mg/day pregabalin was assessed using analyses of covariance. Subgroups of interest were characterized regarding their baseline characteristics and efficacy outcomes. A total of 804 patients were evaluated at baseline. A significant interaction with treatment was observed in the mood symptom subgroups with a larger pain reduction in duloxetine-treated patients having no mood symptoms [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) depression or anxiety subscale score <11; -2.33 (duloxetine); -1.52 (pregabalin); p = 0.024]. There were no significant interactions between treatment for subgroups by age (<65 or ≥65 years), gender, baseline pain severity [Brief Pain Inventory Modified Short Form (BPI-MSF) average pain <6 or ≥6], diabetic neuropathy duration (≤2 or >2 years), baseline haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (<8% or ≥8%), presence of comorbidities and concomitant medication use. Our analyses suggest that the efficacy of duloxetine and pregabalin for initial 8-week treatment in DPNP was consistent across examined subgroups based on demographics and disease characteristics at baseline except for the presence of mood symptoms. Duloxetine treatment appeared to be particularly beneficial in DPNP patients having no mood symptoms. © 2015 European Pain Federation - EFIC®

  11. Real-world outcomes in patients with depression treated with duloxetine or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor in East Asia.

    PubMed

    Hong, Jihyung; Novick, Diego; Montgomery, William; Moneta, Maria Victoria; Dueñas, Héctor; Peng, Xiaomei; Haro, Josep Maria

    2016-03-01

    This study compared treatment outcomes in patients with major depressive disorder treated with either duloxetine with a daily dose of ≤60 mg or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) as monotherapy for up to 6 months in a naturalistic setting in East Asia. In addition, this study examined the impact of painful physical symptoms (PPS) on the effects of these treatments. This post-hoc analysis of data from a 6-month prospective observational study involving 1,549 major depressive disorder patients without sexual dysfunction focused on a subgroup of patients from East Asia (n = 587). Depression severity was measured using the Clinical Global Impression of Severity and the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS-SR16 ), whereas quality of life (QoL) was measured using EuroQoL instruments. PPS were rated using the modified Somatic Symptom Inventory. Multiple regression analyses were performed to compare the treatment outcomes. Duloxetine-treated patients had higher odds of achieving remission (odds ratio = 2.578, P < 0.001) and response (odds ratio = 2.704, P < 0.001) during follow-up, compared with SSRI-treated patients. They also had lower levels of disease severity and higher levels of QoL during follow-up. A similar pattern was observed in each subgroup of patients with and without PPS at baseline, but the effects of duloxetine relative to SSRIs were in general greater in patients with PPS. Patients treated with duloxetine had better treatment outcomes in terms of remission, response, depressive symptoms, and QoL, compared with SSRIs. Treatment with duloxetine may have additional advantages for patients with concurrent PPS. © 2015 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

  12. Conditioned pain modulation predicts duloxetine efficacy in painful diabetic neuropathy.

    PubMed

    Yarnitsky, David; Granot, Michal; Nahman-Averbuch, Hadas; Khamaisi, Mogher; Granovsky, Yelena

    2012-06-01

    This study aims to individualize the selection of drugs for neuropathic pain by examining the potential coupling of a given drug's mechanism of action with the patient's pain modulation pattern. The latter is assessed by the conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and temporal summation (TS) protocols. We hypothesized that patients with a malfunctioning pain modulation pattern, such as less efficient CPM, would benefit more from drugs augmenting descending inhibitory pain control than would patients with a normal modulation pattern of efficient CPM. Thirty patients with painful diabetic neuropathy received 1 week of placebo, 1 week of 30 mg/d duloxetine, and 4 weeks of 60 mg/d duloxetine. Pain modulation was assessed psychophysically, both before and at the end of treatment. Patient assessment of drug efficacy, assessed weekly, was the study's primary outcome. Baseline CPM was found to be correlated with duloxetine efficacy (r=0.628, P<.001, efficient CPM is marked negative), such that less efficient CPM predicted efficacious use of duloxetine. Regression analysis (R(2)=0.673; P=.012) showed that drug efficacy was predicted only by CPM (P=.001) and not by pretreatment pain levels, neuropathy severity, depression level, or patient assessment of improvement by placebo. Furthermore, beyond its predictive value, the treatment-induced improvement in CPM was correlated with drug efficacy (r=-0.411, P=.033). However, this improvement occurred only in patients with less efficient CPM (16.8±16.0 to -1.1±15.5, P<.050). No predictive role was found for TS. In conclusion, the coupling of CPM and duloxetine efficacy highlights the importance of pain pathophysiology in the clinical decision-making process. This evaluative approach promotes personalized pain therapy. Copyright © 2012 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Impact of Pretreatment With Antidepressants on the Efficacy of Duloxetine in Terms of Mood Symptoms and Functioning: An Analysis of 15 Pooled Major Depressive Disorder Studies

    PubMed Central

    Barros, Bruno R.; Schacht, Alexander; Happich, Michael; Televantou, Foula; Berggren, Lovisa; Walker, Daniel J.

    2014-01-01

    Objective: This post hoc analysis aimed to determine whether patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in duloxetine trials who were antidepressant naive or who were previously exposed to antidepressants exhibited differences in efficacy and functioning. Method: Data were pooled from 15 double-blind, placebo- and/or active-controlled duloxetine trials of adult patients with MDD conducted by Eli Lilly and Company. The individual studies took place between March 2000 and November 2009. Data were analyzed using 4 pretreatment subgroups: first-episode never treated, multiple-episode never treated, treated previously only with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and previously treated with antidepressants other than just SSRIs. Measures included the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17) total and somatic symptom subscale scores, Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score, and Sheehan Disability Scale total score. Response rates (50% and 30%) were based on the HDRS-17 total score and remission rates on either the HDRS-17 or MADRS total score. Results: Response and remission rates were significantly greater (P < .05 in 11 of 12 comparisons) for duloxetine versus placebo in the 4 subgroups. A trend of greater response and remission occurred for first-episode versus multiple-episode patients; both groups were generally higher than the antidepressant-treated groups. Mean changes in efficacy measures were mostly significantly greater (P < .05 in 13 of 16 comparisons) for duloxetine versus placebo within each pretreatment subgroup, with some (P < .05 in 2 of 24 comparisons) significant interaction effects between subgroups on HDRS-17 total and somatic symptoms scores. Conclusions: Duloxetine was generally superior to placebo on response and remission rates and in mean change on efficacy measures. Response and remission rates were numerically greater for first-episode versus multiple-episode and drug-treated patients. Mean change differences on efficacy measures among the 4 subgroups were inconsistent. Duloxetine showed a similar therapeutic effect independent of episode frequency and antidepressant pretreatment. PMID:25667808

  14. Improvement in multiple dimensions of fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia treated with duloxetine: secondary analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Arnold, Lesley M; Wang, Fujun; Ahl, Jonna; Gaynor, Paula J; Wohlreich, Madelaine M

    2011-06-13

    Fatigue is one of the most disabling symptoms associated with fibromyalgia that greatly impacts quality of life. Fatigue was assessed as a secondary objective in a 2-phase, 24-week study in outpatients with American College of Rheumatology-defined fibromyalgia. Patients were randomized to duloxetine 60-120 mg/d (N = 263) or placebo (N = 267) for the 12-week acute phase. At Week 12, all placebo-treated patients were switched to double-blind treatment with duloxetine for the extension phase. Fatigue was assessed at baseline and every 4 weeks with the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) scales: General Fatigue, Physical Fatigue, Mental Fatigue, Reduced Activity, and Reduced Motivation. Other assessments that may be associated with fatigue included Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) average pain, numerical scales to rate anxiety, depressed mood, bothered by sleep difficulties, and musculoskeletal stiffness. Treatment-emergent fatigue-related events were also assessed. Changes from baseline to Week 12, and from Week 12 to Week 24, were analyzed by mixed-effects model repeated measures analysis. At Week 12, duloxetine versus placebo significantly (all p < .05) reduced ratings on each MFI scale, BPI pain, anxiety, depressed mood, and stiffness. Improvement in ratings of being bothered by sleep difficulties was significant only at Weeks 4 and 8. At Week 24, mean changes in all measures indicated improvement was maintained for patients who received duloxetine for all 24 weeks (n = 176). Placebo-treated patients switched to duloxetine (n = 187) had significant within-group improvement in Physical Fatigue (Weeks 16, 20, and 24); General Fatigue (Weeks 20 and 24); Mental Fatigue (Week 20); and Reduced Activity (Weeks 20 and 24). These patients also experienced significant within-group improvement in BPI pain, anxiety, depressed mood, bothered by sleep difficulties, and stiffness. Overall, the most common (> 5% incidence) fatigue-related treatment-emergent adverse events were fatigue, somnolence, and insomnia. Treatment with duloxetine significantly improved multiple dimensions of fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia, and improvement was maintained for up to 24 weeks. ClinicalTrials.gov registry NCT00673452.

  15. An open treatment trial of duloxetine in elderly patients with dysthymic disorder

    PubMed Central

    Kerner, Nancy; D’Antonio, Kristina; Pelton, Gregory H; Salcedo, Elianny; Ferrar, Jennifer; Roose, Steven P

    2014-01-01

    Objective: We evaluated the efficacy and side effects of the selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant duloxetine in older adults with dysthymic disorder. Methods: Patients ≥ 60 years old with dysthymic disorder received flexible dose duloxetine 20–120 mg daily in an open-label 12-week trial. The main outcomes were change from baseline to 12 weeks in 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores and Treatment Emergent Symptoms Scale scores. Response required ≥ 50% decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores with a Clinical Global Impression of much improved or better, and remission required final Hamilton Depression Rating Scale ≤ 6. Intent-to-treat analyses were conducted with the last observation carried forward. Results: In 30 patients, the mean age was 70.7 (standard deviation (SD) = 7.6) years and 56.7% were female. In intent-to-treat analyses, there were 16 responders (53.3%) and 10 remitters (33.3%). Of these, 19 patients completed the trial. The mean maximum dose was 76.3 mg (SD = 38.5) in the total sample and 101 mg (SD = 17.9) in completers. In the total sample, the mean final dose was 51 mg (SD = 27.2) and correlated significantly with decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (p < .03); decline in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale correlated significantly with decline in Treatment Emergent Symptoms Scale (p < .001). Daily doses above 60 mg were associated with greater improvement and well tolerated. This result was partly confounded by early dropouts having received low doses. Demographic and medical comorbidities, including cardiac disease and hypertension, were not related to response. Somatic side effects were common prior to duloxetine treatment and improved rather than worsened with duloxetine. There were no serious adverse events. Conclusion: Duloxetine at relatively high doses showed moderate efficacy in elderly patients with dysthymic disorder and was well tolerated in successful completers. Reduced somatic symptoms were associated with improvement in depressive symptoms. A systematic placebo-controlled trial of duloxetine in older patients with dysthymic disorder may be warranted. PMID:25177490

  16. Improvement with Duloxetine in an Adult ADHD Patient

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tourjman, Smadar Valerie; Bilodeau, Mathieu

    2009-01-01

    Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and disabling disorder among adults and is treated with stimulant and non stimulant medication. Objective: To report the case of a patient with ADHD showing good clinical response to duloxetine, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). Case…

  17. Two-week administration of the combined serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor duloxetine augments functioning of mesolimbic incentive processing circuits.

    PubMed

    Ossewaarde, Lindsey; Verkes, Robbert J; Hermans, Erno J; Kooijman, Sabine C; Urner, Maren; Tendolkar, Indira; van Wingen, Guido A; Fernández, Guillén

    2011-09-15

    Anhedonia and lack of motivation are core symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). Neuroimaging studies in MDD patients have shown reductions in reward-related activity in terminal regions of the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system, such as the ventral striatum. Monoamines have been implicated in both mesolimbic incentive processing and the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs. However, not much is known about antidepressant effects on mesolimbic incentive processing in humans, which might be related to the effects on anhedonia. To investigate the short-term effects of antidepressants on reward-related activity in the ventral striatum, we investigated the effect of the combined serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine. Healthy volunteers underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. After taking duloxetine (60 mg once a day) or placebo for 14 days, participants completed a monetary incentive delay task that activates the ventral striatum during reward anticipation. Our results (n = 19) show enhanced ventral striatal responses after duloxetine administration compared with placebo. Moreover, this increase in ventral striatal activity was positively correlated with duloxetine plasma levels. This is the first study to demonstrate that antidepressants augment neural activity in mesolimbic DA incentive processing circuits in healthy volunteers. These effects are likely caused by the increase in monoamine neurotransmission in the ventral striatum. Our findings suggest that antidepressants may alleviate anhedonia by stimulating incentive processing. Copyright © 2011 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Treatment discontinuation and tolerability as a function of dose and titration of duloxetine in the treatment of major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Harada, Eiji; Shirakawa, Osamu; Satoi, Yoichi; Marangell, Lauren B; Escobar, Rodrigo

    2016-01-01

    We sought to better understand how dose and titration with duloxetine treatment may impact tolerability and treatment discontinuation in patients with major depressive disorder. We investigated Phase III duloxetine trials. Group 1 was a single placebo-controlled study with a 20 mg initial dose and a slow titration to 40 and 60 mg. Group 2 was a single study with a 40 mg initial dose and final "active" doses of 40 and 60 mg (5 mg control group), with 1-week titration. Group 3 consisted of eight placebo-controlled studies with starting doses of 40, 60, and 80 mg/day with minimal titration (final dose 40-120 mg/day). Tolerability was measured by rate of discontinuation due to adverse events (DCAE). The DCAE in Group 1 were 3.6% in the 60 mg group, 3.3% in the 40 mg group, and 3.2% in the placebo group. In Group 2, the DCAE were 15.0% in the 60 mg group, 8.1% in the 40 mg group, and 4.9% in the 5 mg group. In Group 3, the DCAE were 9.7% and 4.2% in the duloxetine and placebo groups, respectively. This study suggests that starting dose and titration may have impacted tolerability and treatment discontinuation. A lower starting dose of duloxetine and slower titration may contribute to improving treatment tolerability for patients with major depressive disorder.

  19. Pharmacodynamics of norepinephrine reuptake inhibition: Modeling the peripheral and central effects of atomoxetine, duloxetine, and edivoxetine on the biomarker 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol in humans.

    PubMed

    Kielbasa, William; Lobo, Evelyn

    2015-12-01

    Norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the autonomic sympathetic nervous system, is deaminated by monoamine oxidase to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG). Inhibition of the NE transporter (NET) using DHPG as a biomarker was evaluated using atomoxetine, duloxetine, and edivoxetine as probe NET inhibitors. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data were obtained from healthy subjects (n = 160) from 5 clinical trials. An indirect response model was used to describe the relationship between drug plasma concentration and DHPG concentration in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The baseline plasma DHPG concentration (1130-1240 ng/mL) and Imax (33%-37%) were similar for the 3 drugs. The unbound plasma drug IC50 (IC50U ) based on plasma DHPG was 0.973 nM for duloxetine, 0.136 nM for atomoxetine, and 0.041 nM for edivoxetine. The baseline CSF DHPG concentration (1850-2260 ng/mL) was similar for the 3 drugs, but unlike plasma DHPG, the Imax for DHPG was 38% for duloxetine, 53% for atomoxetine, and75% for edivoxetine. The IC50U based on CSF DHPG was 2.72 nM for atomoxetine, 1.22 nM for duloxetine, and 0.794 nM for edivoxetine. These modeling results provide insights into the pharmacology of NET inhibitors and the use of DHPG as a biomarker. © 2015, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

  20. Duloxetine prevents the effects of prenatal stress on depressive-like and anxiety-like behavior and hippocampal expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in adult male offspring rats.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xiaosong; Wang, Qi; Wang, Yan; Hu, Jingmin; Jiang, Han; Cheng, Wenwen; Ma, Yuchao; Liu, Mengxi; Sun, Anji; Zhang, Xinxin; Li, Xiaobai

    2016-12-01

    Stress during pregnancy may cause neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. However, the mechanisms are largely unknown. Currently, pro-inflammatory cytokines have been identified as a risk factor for depression and anxiety disorder. Unfortunately, there is very little research on the long-term effects of prenatal stress on the neuroinflammatory system of offspring. Moreover, the relationship between antidepressant treatment and cytokines in the central nervous system, especially in the hippocampus, an important emotion modulation center, is unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of prenatal chronic mild stress during development on affective-like behaviors and hippocampal cytokines in adult offspring, and to verify whether antidepressant (duloxetine) administration from early adulthood could prevent the harmful consequences. To do so, prenatally stressed and non-stressed Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with either duloxetine (10mg/kg/day) or vehicle from postnatal day 60 for 21days. Adult offspring were divided into four groups: 1) prenatal stress+duloxetine treatment, 2) prenatal stress+vehicle, 3) duloxetine treatment alone, and 4) vehicle alone. Adult offspring were assessed for anxiety-like behavior using the open field test and depression-like behavior using the forced swim test. Brains were analyzed for pro-inflammatory cytokine markers in the hippocampus via real-time PCR. Results demonstrate that prenatal stress-induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors are associated with an increase in hippocampal inflammatory mediators, and duloxetine administration prevents the increased hippocampal pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 and anxiety- and depression-like behavior in prenatally stressed adult offspring. This research provides important evidence on the long-term effect of PNS exposure during development in a model of maternal adversity to study the pathogenesis of depression and its therapeutic interventions. Copyright © 2016 ISDN. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. The Effects of Vortioxetine on Cognitive Function in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Three Randomized Controlled Trials

    PubMed Central

    Harrison, J; Loft, H; Jacobson, W; Olsen, CK

    2016-01-01

    Background: Management of cognitive deficits in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) remains an important unmet need. This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of vortioxetine on cognition in patients with MDD. Methods: Random effects meta-analysis was applied to three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 8-week trials of vortioxetine (5–20mg/day) in MDD, and separately to two duloxetine-referenced trials. The primary outcome measure was change in Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) score. Standardized effect sizes (SES) versus placebo (Cohen’s d) were used as input. Path analysis was employed to determine the extent to which changes in DSST were mediated independently of a change in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score. Meta-analysis was applied to MADRS-adjusted and -unadjusted SES values. Changes on additional cognitive tests were evaluated (source studies only). Results: Before adjustment for MADRS, vortioxetine separated from placebo on DSST score (SES 0.25–0.48; nominal p < 0.05) in all individual trials, and statistically improved DSST performance versus placebo in meta-analyses of the three trials (SES = 0.35; p < 0.0001) and two duloxetine-referenced trials (SES = 0.26; p = 0.001). After adjustment for MADRS, vortioxetine maintained DSST improvement in one individual trial (p = 0.001) and separation from placebo was maintained in meta-analyses of all three trials (SES = 0.24; p < 0.0001) and both duloxetine-referenced trials (SES 0.19; p = 0.01). Change in DSST with duloxetine failed to separate from placebo in individual trials and both meta-analyses. Change in DSST statistically favored vortioxetine versus duloxetine after MADRS adjustment (SES = 0.16; p = 0.04). Conclusions: Vortioxetine, but not duloxetine, significantly improved cognition, independent of depressive symptoms. Vortioxetine represents an important treatment for MDD-related cognitive dysfunction. PMID:27312740

  2. Effects of MDMA alone and after pretreatment with reboxetine, duloxetine, clonidine, carvedilol, and doxazosin on pupillary light reflex.

    PubMed

    Hysek, Cédric M; Liechti, Matthias E

    2012-12-01

    Pupillometry can be used to characterize autonomic drug effects. This study was conducted to determine the autonomic effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy), administered alone and after pretreatment with reboxetine, duloxetine, clonidine, carvedilol, and doxazosin, on pupillary function. Infrared pupillometry was performed in five placebo-controlled randomized studies. Each study included 16 healthy subjects (eight men, eight women) who received placebo-MDMA (125 mg), placebo-placebo, pretreatment-placebo, or pretreatment-MDMA using a crossover design. MDMA produced mydriasis, prolonged the latency, reduced the response to light, and shortened the recovery time. The impaired reflex response was associated with subjective, cardiostimulant, and hyperthermic drug effects and returned to normal within 6 h after MDMA administration when plasma MDMA levels were still high. Mydriasis was associated with changes in plasma MDMA concentration over time and longer-lasting. Both reboxetine and duloxetine interacted with the effects of MDMA on pupillary function. Clonidine did not significantly reduce the mydriatic effects of MDMA, although it produced miosis when administered alone. Carvedilol and doxazosin did not alter the effects of MDMA on pupillary function. The MDMA-induced prolongation of the latency to and reduction of light-induced miosis indicate indirect central parasympathetic inhibition, and the faster recovery time reflects an increased sympathomimetic action. Both norepinephrine and serotonin mediate the effects of MDMA on pupillary function. Although mydriasis is lasting and mirrors the plasma concentration-time curve of MDMA, the impairment in the reaction to light is associated with the subjective and other autonomic effects of MDMA and exhibits acute tolerance.

  3. Open-label study of duloxetine for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

    PubMed

    Dougherty, Darin D; Corse, Andrew K; Chou, Tina; Duffy, Amanda; Arulpragasam, Amanda R; Deckersbach, Thilo; Jenike, Michael A; Keuthen, Nancy J

    2015-01-01

    This study sought to investigate the efficacy of duloxetine for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (DSM-IV). Twenty individuals were enrolled in a 17-week, open-label trial of duloxetine at Massachusetts General Hospital. Data were collected between March 2007 and September 2012. Study measures assessing obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, quality of life, depression, and anxiety were administered at baseline and weeks 1, 5, 9, 13, and 17. The primary outcome measures were the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale and Clinical Global Improvement scale. For the 12 study completers, pre- and posttreatment analyses revealed significant improvements (P<.05) on clinician- and self-rated measures of obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms and quality of life. Among the 12 completers, more than one-half (n=7) satisfied full medication response criteria. Intention-to-treat analyses (n=20) showed similar improvements (P<.05) on primary and secondary study outcome measures. The results of this study suggest that duloxetine may provide a significant reduction in symptoms for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00464698; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00464698?term=NCT00464698&rank=1. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of CINP.

  4. Duloxetine in the treatment of burning mouth syndrome refractory to conventional treatment: A case report.

    PubMed

    Kim, Yeon-Dong; Lee, Ji-Hye; Shim, Jee-Hoon

    2014-06-01

    Patients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS) report burning sensation and pain involving the tongue and oral mucosa without any apparent medical or dental cause. The pathogenesis of this syndrome remains unclear and there is currently no standard treatment. BMS is, therefore, often misdiagnosed and its management is complex. This lack of clinical expertise may result in decreased health-related quality of life and increased psychological distress among patients with BMS. The present case report involves a 77-year-old female patient with BMS refractory to conventional treatment with nerve block and medication, who was successfully treated with duloxetine. Duloxetine may become a new therapeutic option in the management of BMS. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

  5. Impact of duloxetine and dexamethasone for improving postoperative pain after laparoscopic gynecological surgeries: A randomized clinical trial

    PubMed Central

    Kassim, Dina Y.; Esmat, Ibrahim M.; Elgendy, Mohammed A.

    2018-01-01

    Background: Patients’ surgical experiences are influenced by their perception of pain management. Duloxetine (Dulox) and dexamethasone (Dex) are used in multimodal analgesia to reduce opioid use and side effects. Dulox is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and has efficacy in chronic pain conditions. Dex enhances postoperative (PO) analgesia and reduces PO nausea and vomiting (PONV). Methods: Seventy-five female patients were randomly allocated into one of three equal groups. GI received Dulox 60 mg orally and 100 ml 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline [NS]) intravenous infusion (IVI) over 15 min, GII: received as GI except Dex 0.1 mg/kg was mixed with NS and GIII received identical placebo for Dulox capsule and Dex IVI, 2 h preoperatively. Patients’ vitals, visual analog scale (VAS), and sedation score were assessed at 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 6 h, and 12 h postoperatively. Total pethidine requirements, plasma cortisol, PONV, and patients satisfaction were recorded. Results: PO time for 1st rescue analgesic was significantly high in GI and GII compared to GIII and in GII compared to GI. There was a significant less VAS score, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and a high sedation score in GI and GII compared to GIII at 30 min, 1, 2, and 6 h postoperatively. Total pethidine requirements were significantly less in GI and GII compared to GIII 12 h postoperatively. There was a significant reduction in the 2 h PO serum cortisol (μg/dl) and a significant increase in the PO patients satisfaction score in GI and GII compared to GIII. PONV was decreased significantly in GII compared to GI and GIII. Conclusion: The use of oral Dulox 60 mg combined with Dex 0.1 mg/kg IVI is more effective than oral Dulox 60 mg alone, 2 h preoperatively, for improving PO pain by reducing the requirements for rescue analgesia and PONV. PMID:29416464

  6. Considering benefits and harms of duloxetine for treatment of stress urinary incontinence: a meta-analysis of clinical study reports.

    PubMed

    Maund, Emma; Guski, Louise Schow; Gøtzsche, Peter C

    2017-02-06

    The European Medicines Agency makes clinical study reports publicly available and publishes reasons for not approving applications for marketing authorization. Duloxetine has been approved in Europe for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women. The reported adverse effects of duloxetine include mental health problems and suicidality. We obtained clinical study reports from the European Medicines Agency concerning use of this drug for stress urinary incontinence. We performed a meta-analysis of 4 randomized placebo-controlled trials of duloxetine (involving a total of 1913 patients) submitted to the European Medicines Agency for marketing approval for the indication of stress urinary incontinence in women. We used data from the clinical study reports (totalling 6870 pages and including individual patient data) to assess benefits (including frequency of incontinence and changes in quality-of-life scores, such as Patient Global Impression of Improvement rating) and harms (both general harms, including discontinuation because of adverse events, and harms related to suicidality, violent behaviour and their potential precursors, such as akathisia and activation [stimulating effects such as insomnia, anxiety and agitation]). Duloxetine was significantly better than placebo in terms of percentage change in weekly incontinence episodes (mean difference -13.56%, 95% confidence interval [CI] -21.59% to -5.53%) and change in Incontinence Quality of Life total score (mean difference 3.24, 95% CI 2.00 to 4.48). However, the effect sizes were small, and a sensitivity analysis (with removal of one trial) showed that the number needed to treat for a Patient Global Impression of Improvement rating of "much better or very much better" was 8 (95% CI 6 to 13). The numbers needed to harm were 7 (95% CI 6 to 8) for discontinuing because of an adverse event and 7 (95% CI 6 to 9) for experiencing an activation event. No suicidality, violence or akathisia events were noted. Although duloxetine is effective for stress urinary incontinence in women, the rates of associated harm were high when individual patient data were analyzed, and the harms outweighed the benefits. © 2017 Canadian Medical Association or its licensors.

  7. Study protocol for a multi-institutional, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase III trial investigating additive efficacy of duloxetine for neuropathic cancer pain refractory to opioids and gabapentinoids: the DIRECT study.

    PubMed

    Matsuoka, Hiromichi; Ishiki, Hiroto; Iwase, Satoru; Koyama, Atsuko; Kawaguchi, Takashi; Kizawa, Yoshiyuki; Morita, Tatsuya; Matsuda, Yoshinobu; Miyaji, Tempei; Ariyoshi, Keisuke; Yamaguchi, Takuhiro

    2017-08-28

    Management of patients with cancer suffering from neuropathic pain refractory to opioids and gabapentinoids remains an important challenge. Duloxetine is one of the choices after first-line treatment fails. The efficacy of duloxetine has been reported in patients with non-cancer disease and in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, but no randomised clinical trials have examined its effects on neuropathic cancer pain refractory to first-line treatment. The objective of this study is to assess the analgesic efficacy of duloxetine in patients suffering from neuropathic cancer pain refractory to opioids and gabapentinoids. A multi-institutional, prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-parallel trial is planned. The inclusion criteria are adult patients with cancer suffering from neuropathic cancer pain refractory to opioids and gabapentinoids, patients with a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain score of 4 or higher and patients with a total Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score of less than 20. Patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy are excluded. The study will take place at 14 sites across Japan. Participants will be randomised (1:1 allocation ratio) to a duloxetine intervention group or a placebo control group. Evaluations will be made at baseline (T0 randomisation), day 0 (T1), day 3 (T2) and day 10 (T3). The primary endpoint is defined as the difference in NRS score for pain intensity (average over the previous 24 hours) at T3 between the duloxetine and placebo groups. A sample size of 70 patients will be examined between July 2015 and March 2018. Ethics approval was obtained at all participating sites.The results of this study will be submitted for publication in international peer-reviewed journals and the key findings presented at international scientific conferences. UMIN000017647; Pre-results. 2.2, 26 April 2017. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  8. Pharmacological Characterization of H05, a Novel Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor with Moderate 5-HT2A Antagonist Activity for the Treatment of Depression.

    PubMed

    Xu, Xiangqing; Wei, Yaqin; Guo, Qiang; Zhao, Song; Liu, Zhiqiang; Xiao, Ting; Liu, Yani; Qiu, Yinli; Hou, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Guisen; Wang, KeWei

    2018-06-01

    Multitarget antidepressants selectively inhibiting monoaminergic transporters and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) 2A receptor have demonstrated higher efficacy and fewer side effects than selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In the present study, we synthesized a series of novel 3-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yloxy)-3-arylpropyl amine derivatives, among which compound H05 was identified as a lead, exhibiting potent inhibitory effects on both serotonin ( K i = 4.81 nM) and norepinephrine (NE) ( K i = 6.72 nM) transporters and moderate 5-HT 2A antagonist activity (IC 50 = 60.37 nM). H05 was able to dose-dependently reduce the immobility duration in mouse forced swimming test and tail suspension test, with the minimal effective doses lower than those of duloxetine, and showed no stimulatory effect on locomotor activity. The administration of H05 (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg, by mouth) significantly shortened the immobility time of adrenocorticotropin-treated rats that serve as a model of treatment-resistant depression, whereas imipramine (30 mg/kg, by mouth) and duloxetine (30 mg/kg, by mouth) showed no obvious effects. Chronic treatment with H05 reversed the depressive-like behaviors in a rat model of chronic unpredictable mild stress and a mouse model of corticosterone-induced depression. Microdialysis analysis revealed that the administration of H05 at either 10 or 20 mg/kg increased the release of 5-HT and NE from the frontal cortex. The pharmacokinetic (PK) and brain penetration analyses suggest that H05 has favorable PK properties with good blood-brain penetration ability. Therefore, it can be concluded that H05, a novel serotonin and NE reuptake inhibitor with 5-HT 2A antagonist activity, possesses efficacious activity in the preclinical models of depression and treatment-resistant depression, and it may warrant further evaluation for clinical development. Copyright © 2018 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

  9. Experience and challenges presented by a multicenter crossover study of combination analgesic therapy for the treatment of painful HIV-associated polyneuropathies.

    PubMed

    Harrison, Taylor; Miyahara, Sachiko; Lee, Anthony; Evans, Scott; Bastow, Barbara; Simpson, David; Gilron, Ian; Dworkin, Robert; Daar, Eric S; Wieclaw, Linda; Clifford, David B

    2013-07-01

    There is limited evidence for efficacy of analgesics as monotherapy for neuropathic pain associated with HIV-associated polyneuropathies, in spite of demonstrated efficacy in other neuropathic pain conditions. We evaluated the tolerability and analgesic efficacy of duloxetine, methadone, and the combination of duloxetine-methadone compared with placebo. This study was a phase II, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, four-period crossover multicenter study of analgesic therapy for patients with at least moderate neuropathic pain due to HIV-associated polyneuropathy. Duloxetine, methadone, combination duloxetine-methadone, and placebo were administered in four different possible sequences. The primary outcome measure was mean pain intensity (MPI) measured daily in a study-supplied pain diary. A total of 15 patients were enrolled from eight study sites and eight patients completed the entire trial. Study treatments failed to show statistically significant change in MPI compared with placebo. Adverse events were frequent and associated with high rates of drug discontinuation and study dropout. Challenges with participant recruitment and poor retention precluded trial completion to its planned targets, limiting our evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of the study treatments. Challenges to successful completion of this study and lessons learned are discussed. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. Experience and challenges presented by a multicenter crossover study of combination analgesic therapy for the treatment of painful HIV-associated polyneuropathies

    PubMed Central

    Harrison, Taylor; Miyahara, Sachiko; Lee, Anthony; Evans, Scott; Bastow, Barbara; Simpson, David; Gilron, Ian; Dworkin, Robert; Daar, Eric S.; Wieclaw, Linda; Clifford, David B.

    2014-01-01

    Objective There is limited evidence for efficacy of analgesics as monotherapy for neuropathic pain associated with HIV-associated polyneuropathies, in spite of demonstrated efficacy in other neuropathic pain conditions. We evaluated the tolerability and analgesic efficacy of duloxetine, methadone, and the combination of duloxetine-methadone compared to placebo. Design This study was a phase II, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, four-period crossover multi-center study of analgesic therapy for patients with at least moderate neuropathic pain due to HIV-associated polyneuropathy. Duloxetine, methadone, combination duloxetine-methadone, and placebo were administered in four different possible sequences. The primary outcome measure was mean pain intensity (MPI) measured daily in a study-supplied pain diary. Results A total of 15 patients were enrolled from 8 study sites and 8 patients completed the entire trial. Study treatments failed to show statistically significant change in MPI compared to placebo. Adverse events were frequent and associated with high rates of drug discontinuation and study drop-out. Conclusions Challenges with participant recruitment and poor retention precluded trial completion to its planned targets, limiting our evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of the study treatments. Challenges to successful completion of this study and lessons learned are discussed. PMID:23565581

  11. Investigation of the predictive validity of laser-EPs in normal, UVB-inflamed and capsaicin-irritated skin with four analgesic compounds in healthy volunteers.

    PubMed

    Schaffler, Klaus; Nicolas, Laurent B; Borta, Andreas; Brand, Tobias; Reitmeir, Peter; Roebling, Robert; Scholpp, Joachim

    2017-07-01

    The aim of the present study was to assess the predictivity of laser-(radiant-heat)-evoked potentials (LEPs) from the vertex electroencephalogram, using an algesimetric procedure, testing the anti-nociceptive/anti-hyperalgesic effects of single oral doses of four marketed analgesics (of different compound classes) vs. placebo, in healthy volunteers with three skin types. This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, five-way-crossover trial. Twenty-five healthy male/female Caucasians were included (receiving celecoxib 200 mg, pregabalin 150 mg, duloxetine 60 mg, lacosamide 100 mg or placebo) in a Williams design, with CO 2 laser-induced painful stimuli to normal, ultraviolet (UV) B-inflamed and capsaicin-irritated skin. LEPs and visual analogue scale ratings were taken at baseline and hourly for 6 h postdose from all three skin types. In normal skin, the averaged postdose LEP peak-to-peak-(PtP)-amplitudes were reduced by pregabalin (-2.68 μV; 95% confidence interval (CI) -4.16, 1.19) and duloxetine (-1.73 μV; 95% CI -3.21, -0.26) but not by lacosamide and celecoxib vs. placebo. On UVB-irradiated skin, reflecting inflammatory pain, celecoxib induced a pronounced reduction in LEP PtP amplitudes vs. placebo (-6.2 μV; 95% CI -7.88, -4.51), with a smaller reduction by duloxetine (-4.54 μV; 95% CI -6.21, -2.87) and pregabalin (-3.72 μV; 95% CI -5.40, -2.04), whereas lacosamide was inactive. LEP PtP amplitudes on capsaicin-irritated skin, reflecting peripheral/spinal sensitization, as in neuropathic pain, were reduced by pregabalin (-3.78 μV; 95% CI -5.31, -2.25) and duloxetine (-2.32 μV; 95% CI -3.82, -0.82) but not by celecoxib or lacosamide vs. placebo, which was in agreement with known clinical profiles. Overall, PtP amplitude reductions were in agreement with subjective ratings. LEP algesimetry is sensitive to analgesics with different modes of action and may enable the effects of novel analgesics to be assessed during early clinical development. © 2017 The British Pharmacological Society.

  12. Disposable screen-printed sensors for determination of duloxetine hydrochloride

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    A screen-printed disposable electrode system for the determination of duloxetine hydrochloride (DL) was developed using screen-printing technology. Homemade printing has been characterized and optimized on the basis of effects of the modifier and plasticizers. The fabricated bi-electrode potentiometric strip containing both working and reference electrodes was used as duloxetine hydrochloride sensor. The proposed sensors worked satisfactorily in the concentration range from 1.0 × 10-6-1.0 × 10-2 mol L-1 with detection limit reaching 5.0 × 10-7 mol L-1 and adequate shelf life of 6 months. The method is accurate, precise and economical. The proposed method has been applied successfully for the analysis of the drug in pure and in its dosage forms. In this method, there is no interference from any common pharmaceutical additives and diluents. Results of the analysis were validated statistically by recovery studies. PMID:22264225

  13. Duloxetine and 8-OH-DPAT, but not fluoxetine, reduce depression-like behaviour in an animal model of chronic neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Hu, Bing; Doods, Henri; Treede, Rolf-Detlef; Ceci, Angelo

    2016-04-21

    The current study assessed whether antidepressant and/or antinociceptive drugs, duloxetine, fluoxetine as well as (±)-8-hydroxy-2-[di-n-propylamino] tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), are able to reverse depression-like behaviour in animals with chronic neuropathic pain. Chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve in rats was selected as neuropathic pain model. Mechanical hypersensitivity and depression-like behaviour were evaluated 4 weeks after surgery by "electronic algometer" and forced swimming test (FST), which measured the time of immobility, and active behaviours climbing and swimming. The selective noradrenergic and serotonergic uptake blocker duloxetine (20mg/kg) and the selective 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT (0.5mg/kg) significantly reversed both mechanical hypersensitivity and depression-like behaviour in CCI animals. Duloxetine significantly reversed depression-like behaviour in CCI rats by increasing the time of climbing and swimming, while 8-OH-DPAT attenuated depression-like behaviour mainly by increasing the time of swimming. However, the selective serotonergic uptake blocker fluoxetine (20mg/kg) failed to attenuate mechanical hypersensitivity and depression-like behaviour, possibly due to confounding pro-nociceptive actions at 5-HT3 receptors. These data suggest to target noradrenergic and 5-HT1A receptors for treatment of chronic pain and its comorbidity depression. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Duloxetine HCl lipid nanoparticles: preparation, characterization, and dosage form design.

    PubMed

    Patel, Ketan; Padhye, Sameer; Nagarsenker, Mangal

    2012-03-01

    Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX) were prepared to circumvent the problems of DLX, which include acid labile nature, high first-pass metabolism, and high-dosing frequency. The DLX-SLNs were prepared by using two different techniques, viz. solvent diffusion method and ultrasound dispersion method, and evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, physical characteristics, and chemical stability. Best results were obtained when SLNs were prepared by ultrasound dispersion method using glyceryl mono stearate as solid lipid and DLX in ratio of 1:20 and mixture of polysorbate 80 and poloxamer 188 as surfactant in concentration of 3%. The mean particle size of formulation and entrapment efficiency was 91.7 nm and 87%, respectively, and had excellent stability in acidic medium. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction data showed complete amorphization of DLX in lipid. In vitro drug release from SLNs was observed for 48 h and was in accordance with Higuchi kinetics. In vivo antidepressant activity was evaluated in mice by forced swim test. DLX-SLNs showed significant enhancement in antidepressant activity at 24 h when administered orally in comparison to drug solution. These results confirm the potential of SLNs in enhancing chemical stability and improving the efficacy of DLX via oral route. The SLN dispersion was converted into solid granules by adsorbing on colloidal silicon dioxide and characterized for particle size after redispersion, morphology, and flow properties. Results indicated that nanoparticles were successfully adsorbed on the carrier and released SLNs when dispersed in water.

  15. Development and optimization of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride using 3(2) full factorial design.

    PubMed

    Setia, Anupama; Kansal, Sahil; Goyal, Naveen

    2013-07-01

    Microspheres constitute an important part of oral drug delivery system by virtue of their small size and efficient carrier capacity. However, the success of these microspheres is limited due to their short residence time at the site of absorption. The objective of the present study was to formulate and systematically evaluate in vitro performance of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX), an acid labile drug. DLX microspheres were prepared by simple emulsification phase separation technique using chitosan as carrier and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent. Microspheres prepared were coated with eudragit L-100 using an oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method. Eudragit L-100was used as enteric coating polymer with the aim to release the drug in small intestine The microspheres prepared were characterized by particle size, entrapment efficiency, swelling index (SI), mucoadhesion time, in vitro drug release and surface morphology. A 3(2) full factorial design was employed to study the effect of independent variables polymer-to-drug ratio (X1) and stirring speed (X2) on dependent variables, particle size, entrapment efficiency, SI, in vitro mucoadhesion and drug release up to 24 h (t24). Microspheres formed were discrete, spherical and free flowing. The microspheres exhibited good mucoadhesive property and also showed high percentage entrapment efficiency. The microspheres were able to sustain the drug release up to 24 h. Thus, the prepared enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres may prove to be a potential controlled release formulation of DLX for oral administration.

  16. Relationship between major depressive disorder and associated painful physical symptoms: analysis of data from two pooled placebo-controlled, randomized studies of duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Robinson, Michael J; Sheehan, David; Gaynor, Paula J; Marangell, Lauren B; Tanaka, Yoko; Lipsius, Sarah; Ohara, Fumihiro; Namiki, Chihiro

    2013-11-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between painful physical symptoms (PPS) and outcomes in major depressive disorder (MDD). Post-hoc analysis of two identically designed 8-week trials compared the efficacy of 60 mg/day duloxetine (N=523) with that of placebo (N=532) in treating PPS associated with MDD. The Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score, the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) average pain score, and the Sheehan Disability Scale global functional impairment score assessed depression symptoms, pain, and functioning, respectively. Remission was defined as a MADRS score of 10 or less, and the BPI response subgroup was defined as a 50% or greater reduction from baseline. Path analyses assessed relationships among variables. Duloxetine-treated patients who had a 50% or greater reduction in BPI score at endpoint had higher rates of remission. Path analysis indicated that 16% of likelihood of remission in depression symptoms was because of the direct effect of treatment, 41% because of pain reduction, and 43% because of functional improvement. Path analysis also indicated that 51% of improvement in functioning was attributed to pain improvement and 43% to mood improvement. Results demonstrate that improvement in pain and mood contributes to functional improvement, and pain reduction and functional improvement increase the likelihood of remission of depressive symptoms with duloxetine treatment in patients with both MDD and PPS at baseline.

  17. Validation of the geriatric anxiety inventory in a duloxetine clinical trial for elderly adults with generalized anxiety disorder.

    PubMed

    Ball, Susan G; Lipsius, Sarah; Escobar, Rodrigo

    2015-09-01

    The Generalized Anxiety Inventory (GAI) has been developed for use in the assessment of anxiety symptoms in older adults (≥ 65 years), but previous validation work has not examined the psychometric qualities of the instrument in relation to treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the performance of the GAI for its internal reliability, convergent and divergent validity, and its sensitivity to treatment. Elderly patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) participated in a 10-week double-blind study of duloxetine treatment for patients with GAD. Anxiety symptoms were assessed with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) anxiety and depression subscales, and the GAI. Internal reliability of the GAI was assessed with Cronbach's α. Correlations among the HAMA, HADS, and GAI scores were analyzed to determine convergent and divergent validity. Patients were also compared on remission status using recommended cut-off scores for the GAI. Patients with GAD, who were at least 65 years of age, were randomly assigned to double-blind treatment with either duloxetine (N = 151) or placebo (N = 140) for 10 weeks acute therapy. The mean change on the GAI was significantly greater with duloxetine compared with placebo treatment (-8.36 vs. -4.96, respectively, p ≤ 0.001). The GAI demonstrated good internal consistency, good convergent and divergent validity, but suggested cut-off values for caseness with the GAI did not correspond to remission status as measured by the HAMA. Within an elderly patient population with GAD, the GAI demonstrated sound psychometric qualities and sensitivity to change with treatment.

  18. Development and Validation of a Stability-Indicating RP-HPLC Method for Duloxetine Hydrochloride in its Bulk and Tablet Dosage Form

    PubMed Central

    Chhalotiya, Usmangani K.; Bhatt, Kashyap K.; Shah, Dimal A.; Baldania, Sunil L.

    2010-01-01

    The objective of the present work was to develop a stability-indicating RP-HPLC method for duloxetine hydrochloride (DUL) in the presence of its degradation products generated from forced decomposition studies. The drug substance was found to be susceptible to stress conditions of acid hydrolysis. The drug was found to be stable to dry heat, photodegradation, oxidation and basic condition attempted. Successful separation of the drug from the degradation products formed under acidic stress conditions was achieved on a Hypersil C-18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm id, 5μm particle size) using acetonitrile: 0.01 M potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (pH 5.4 adjusted with orthophosphoric acid) (50:50, v/v) as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. Quantification was achieved with photodiode array detection at 229 nm over the concentration range 1–25 μg/ml with range of recovery 99.8–101.3 % for DUL by the RP-HPLC method. Statistical analysis proved the method to be repeatable, specific, and accurate for estimation of DUL. It can be used as a stability-indicating method due to its effective separation of the drug from its degradation products, PMID:21179321

  19. Development and optimization of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride using 32 full factorial design

    PubMed Central

    Setia, Anupama; Kansal, Sahil; Goyal, Naveen

    2013-01-01

    Background: Microspheres constitute an important part of oral drug delivery system by virtue of their small size and efficient carrier capacity. However, the success of these microspheres is limited due to their short residence time at the site of absorption. Objective: The objective of the present study was to formulate and systematically evaluate in vitro performance of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX), an acid labile drug. Materials and Methods: DLX microspheres were prepared by simple emulsification phase separation technique using chitosan as carrier and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent. Microspheres prepared were coated with eudragit L-100 using an oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method. Eudragit L-100was used as enteric coating polymer with the aim to release the drug in small intestine The microspheres prepared were characterized by particle size, entrapment efficiency, swelling index (SI), mucoadhesion time, in vitro drug release and surface morphology. A 32 full factorial design was employed to study the effect of independent variables polymer-to-drug ratio (X1) and stirring speed (X2) on dependent variables, particle size, entrapment efficiency, SI, in vitro mucoadhesion and drug release up to 24 h (t24). Results: Microspheres formed were discrete, spherical and free flowing. The microspheres exhibited good mucoadhesive property and also showed high percentage entrapment efficiency. The microspheres were able to sustain the drug release up to 24 h. Conclusion: Thus, the prepared enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres may prove to be a potential controlled release formulation of DLX for oral administration. PMID:24167786

  20. [Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome after treatment with duloxetine: coincidence, association, or causality?].

    PubMed

    González-Martín-Moro, J; González-López, J J; Zarallo-Gallardo, J; Fernández-Miguel, Y

    2015-02-01

    The case is presented of a severe Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) in a patient that had been treated with duloxetine. Tamsulosin is the main etiological agent involved in IFIS. However several cases of IFIS, supposedly secondary to drugs of different groups have recently been reported in the literature. The authors use this case report as a means to discuss why most of these cases should be considered anecdotal evidence. Copyright © 2014 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  1. Copper(II)-catalyzed enantioselective hydrosilylation of halo-substituted alkyl aryl and heteroaryl ketones: asymmetric synthesis of (R)-fluoxetine and (S)-duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Ji-Ning; Fang, Qiang; Hu, Yi-Hu; Yang, Li-Yao; Wu, Fei-Fei; Xie, Lin-Jie; Wu, Jing; Li, Shijun

    2014-02-14

    A set of reaction conditions has been established to facilitate the non-precious copper-catalyzed enantioselective hydrosilylation of a number of structurally diverse β-, γ- or ε-halo-substituted alkyl aryl ketones and α-, β- or γ-halo-substituted alkyl heteroaryl ketones under air to afford a broad spectrum of halo alcohols in high yields and good to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). The developed procedure has been successfully applied to the asymmetric synthesis of antidepressant drugs (R)-fluoxetine and (S)-duloxetine, which highlighted its synthetic utility.

  2. Effects of centrally acting analgesics on spinal segmental reflexes and wind-up.

    PubMed

    Mazo, I; Roza, C; Zamanillo, D; Merlos, M; Vela, J M; Lopez-Garcia, J A

    2015-08-01

    The spinal cord is a prime site of action for analgesia. Here we characterize the effects of established analgesics on segmental spinal reflexes. The aim of the study was to look for the pattern of action or signature of analgesic effects on these reflexes. We used a spinal cord in vitro preparation of neonate mice to record ventral root responses to dorsal root stimulation. Pregabalin, clonidine, morphine and duloxetine and an experimental sigma-1 receptor antagonist (S1RA) were applied to the preparation in a cumulative concentration protocol. Drug effects on the wind-up produced by repetitive stimulation of C-fibres and on responses to single A- and C-fibre intensity stimuli were analysed. All compounds produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of total spikes elicited by repetitive stimulation. Concentrations producing ∼50% reduction in this parameter were (in μM) clonidine (0.01), morphine (0.1), pregabalin (1), duloxetine (10) and S1RA (30). At these concentrations clonidine, pregabalin and S1RA had significant effects on the wind-up index and little depressant effects on responses to single stimuli. Morphine and duloxetine did not depress wind-up index and showed large effects on responses to single stimuli. None of the compounds had strong effects on the amplitude of the non-nociceptive monosynaptic reflex. morphine and duloxetine had general depressant effects on spinal reflexes, whereas the effects of clonidine, pregabalin and S1RA appeared to be restricted to signals originated by strong repetitive activation of C-fibres. Results are discussed in the context of reported behavioural effects of the compounds studied. © 2014 European Pain Federation - EFIC®

  3. Functional Impairment and Painful Physical Symptoms in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder Treated with Antidepressants: Real-World Evidence from the Middle East.

    PubMed

    Hong, Jihyung; Novick, Diego; Moneta, Maria Victoria; El-Shafei, Ahmed; Dueñas, Héctor; Haro, Josep Maria

    2017-01-01

    The Global Burden of Disease 2010 study reported the relative size of major depressive disorder (MDD) burden to be greater in the Middle East and North Africa than anywhere else. However, little research has been carried out to examine the comparative effectiveness of antidepressants in this region. To assess and compare functioning levels in Middle Eastern patients with MDD treated with either duloxetine or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), and to examine the impacts of depression-related pain on functioning by the type of treatment. This post-hoc analysis, which focused on Middle Eastern patients, used data from a 6-month prospective observational study that included 1,549 MDD patients without sexual dysfunction. Levels of functional impairment and depression-related pain were assessed using the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) and the modified Somatic Symptom Inventory, respectively. A mixed model with repeated measures (MMRM) was employed. The mean age of the patients was 37.3 (SD=8.4) years, and 34.6% were female. Patient functioning was, on average, moderately impaired at baseline, but improved substantially during follow-up in both the duloxetine (n=152) and the SSRI (n=123) cohorts. The MMRM results showed a lower level of functional impairment at 24 weeks in the duloxetine cohort than in the SSRI cohort (p<0.001). Pain severity at baseline was positively associated with functional impairment during follow-up only in the SSRI cohort (p=0.003). Duloxetine-treated MDD patients achieved better functioning than SSRI-treated patients. This treatment difference was partly driven by depression-related pain.

  4. Antidepressant-selective gynecomastia.

    PubMed

    Kaufman, Kenneth R; Podolsky, Dina; Greenman, Danielle; Madraswala, Rehman

    2013-01-01

    To describe what we believe is the first reported case of synergistic gynecomastia during treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders when sertraline was added to a stable medication regimen including duloxetine, rosuvastatin, and amlodipine. A 67-year-old male with major depression, dysthymia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia presented with new-onset gynecomastia and breast tenderness. Mammography revealed bilateral gynecomastia (fibroglandular tissue posterior to the nipples bilaterally) without suspicious mass, calcification, or other abnormalities. These new symptoms developed after sertraline was added to his stable medication regimen (duloxetine, alprazolam, rosuvastatin, metoprolol, amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide/triamterene, metformin, and sitagliptin). These symptoms were dose-dependent, with gynecomastia and breast tenderness more severe as sertraline was titrated from 25 mg/day to 50 mg/day and then to 75 mg/day. When sertraline was discontinued, gynecomastia and breast tenderness rapidly resolved. Mammoplasia and gynecomastia are associated with altered dopamine neurotransmission and/or perturbations in sexual hormones. These adverse effects may be medication induced. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (sertraline), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (duloxetine), rosuvastatin, and amlodipine have been reported to cause these adverse effects. This case was unique, since the patient had been on both sertraline and duloxetine previously as independent psychotropics without the development of gynecomastia. In the context of an additive drug adverse effect, the probability of sertraline as the precipitant drug was determined by both the Naranjo probability scale and the Horn drug interaction probability scale as probable. Gynecomastia is associated with antidepressants and other medications but is rarely addressed. Gynecomastia may be antidepressant selective or may be the result of additive adverse effects. Clinicians are advised to question patients regarding this potential adverse effect. Further education of clinicians is indicated.

  5. GWAS-based machine learning approach to predict duloxetine response in major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Maciukiewicz, Malgorzata; Marshe, Victoria S; Hauschild, Anne-Christin; Foster, Jane A; Rotzinger, Susan; Kennedy, James L; Kennedy, Sidney H; Müller, Daniel J; Geraci, Joseph

    2018-04-01

    Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and is commonly treated with antidepressant drugs. However, large variability is observed in terms of response to antidepressants. Machine learning (ML) models may be useful to predict treatment outcomes. A sample of 186 MDD patients received treatment with duloxetine for up to 8 weeks were categorized as "responders" based on a MADRS change >50% from baseline; or "remitters" based on a MADRS score ≤10 at end point. The initial dataset (N = 186) was randomly divided into training and test sets in a nested 5-fold cross-validation, where 80% was used as a training set and 20% made up five independent test sets. We performed genome-wide logistic regression to identify potentially significant variants related to duloxetine response/remission and extracted the most promising predictors using LASSO regression. Subsequently, classification-regression trees (CRT) and support vector machines (SVM) were applied to construct models, using ten-fold cross-validation. With regards to response, none of the pairs performed significantly better than chance (accuracy p > .1). For remission, SVM achieved moderate performance with an accuracy = 0.52, a sensitivity = 0.58, and a specificity = 0.46, and 0.51 for all coefficients for CRT. The best performing SVM fold was characterized by an accuracy = 0.66 (p = .071), sensitivity = 0.70 and a sensitivity = 0.61. In this study, the potential of using GWAS data to predict duloxetine outcomes was examined using ML models. The models were characterized by a promising sensitivity, but specificity remained moderate at best. The inclusion of additional non-genetic variables to create integrated models may improve prediction. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  6. Phloretin either alone or in combination with duloxetine alleviates the STZ-induced diabetic neuropathy in rats.

    PubMed

    Balaha, Mohamed; Kandeel, Samah; Kabel, Ahmed

    2018-05-01

    Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is one of most disabling disorder complicating diabetes mellites (DM), which affects more than 50% of the all diabetic patients during the disease course. Duloxetine (DX) is one of the first-line medication that approved by FDA for management of DN, nevertheless, it is too costly and has many adverse effects. Recently, phloretin (PH) exhibited powerful euglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, we investigated the in vivo possible antineuropathic activity of phloretin, besides, its modulating effects on duloxetine potency, in a rat model of DN. Twelve-week-old male Wistar rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg STZ to induce DM. Either DX (30 or 15 mg/kg dissolved in distilled water), PH (50 0r 25 mg/kg dissolved in 0.5% DMSO) or a combination of 15 mg/kg DX and 25 mg/kg PH, used daily orally for 4 weeks to treat DN, starting from the end of the 4 th week of DM development, when DN confirmed. Our finding showed that both DX and PH dose-dependently improved behavioral parameters (with the superiority of DX), sciatic nerve tissue antioxidant state, and suppressed tissue inflammatory cytokine, besides, they abrogated the tissue histopathological changes (with the superiority of PH). Moreover, DX augmented the DM metabolic disturbance and hepatic dysfunction, however, PH effectively amended these disorders. Furthermore, the low-dose combination of both, had the merits of both medications, with the alleviation of their disadvantages. Therefore, phloretin could be a promising agent in the management of DN either alone or in combination with duloxetine. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  7. Comparative efficacy and safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors in older adults: a network meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Thorlund, Kristian; Druyts, Eric; Wu, Ping; Balijepalli, Chakrapani; Keohane, Denis; Mills, Edward

    2015-05-01

    To establish the comparative efficacy and safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors in older adults using the network meta-analysis approach. Systematic review and network meta-analysis. Individuals aged 60 and older. Data on partial response (defined as at least 50% reduction in depression score from baseline) and safety (dizziness, vertigo, syncope, falls, loss of consciousness) were extracted. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed on the efficacy and safety outcomes, and relative risks (RRs) with 95% credible intervals (CrIs) were produced. Fifteen randomized controlled trials were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. Citalopram, escitalopram, paroxetine, duloxetine, venlafaxine, fluoxetine, and sertraline were represented. Reporting on partial response and dizziness was sufficient to conduct a network meta-analysis. Reporting on other outcomes was sparse. For partial response, sertraline (RR=1.28), paroxetine (RR=1.48), and duloxetine (RR=1.62) were significantly better than placebo. The remaining interventions yielded RRs lower than 1.20. For dizziness, duloxetine (RR=3.18) and venlafaxine (RR=2.94) were statistically significantly worse than placebo. Compared with placebo, sertraline had the lowest RR for dizziness (1.14) and fluoxetine the second lowest (1.31). Citalopram, escitalopram, and paroxetine all had RRs between 1.4 and 1.7. There was clear evidence of the effectiveness of sertraline, paroxetine, and duloxetine. There also appears to be a hierarchy of safety associated with the different antidepressants, although there appears to be a dearth of reporting of safety outcomes. © 2015, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2015, The American Geriatrics Society.

  8. Analgesic Effects of Duloxetine on Formalin-Induced Hyperalgesia and Its Underlying Mechanisms in the CeA

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Lie; Yin, Jun-Bin; Hu, Wei; Zhao, Wen-Jun; Fan, Qing-Rong; Qiu, Zhi-Chun; He, Ming-Jie; Ding, Tan; Sun, Yan; Kaye, Alan D.; Wang, En-Ren

    2018-01-01

    In rodents, the amygdala has been proposed to serve as a key center for the nociceptive perception. Previous studies have shown that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascade in the central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) played a functional role in inflammation-induced peripheral hypersensitivity. Duloxetine (DUL), a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, produced analgesia on formalin-induced spontaneous pain behaviors. However, it is still unclear whether single DUL pretreatment influences formalin-induced hypersensitivity and what is the underlying mechanism. In the current study, we revealed that systemic pretreatment with DUL not only dose-dependently suppressed the spontaneous pain behaviors, but also relieved mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity induced by formalin hindpaw injection. Consistent with the analgesic effects of DUL on the pain behaviors, the expressions of Fos and pERK that were used to check the neuronal activities in the spinal cord and CeA were also dose-dependently reduced following DUL pretreatment. Meanwhile, no emotional aversive behaviors were observed at 24 h after formalin injection. The concentration of 5-HT in the CeA was correlated with the dose of DUL in a positive manner at 24 h after formalin injection. Direct injecting 5-HT into the CeA suppressed both the spontaneous pain behaviors and hyperalgesia induced by formalin injection. However, DUL did not have protective effects on the formalin-induced edema of hindpaw. In sum, the activation of CeA neurons may account for the transition from acute pain to long-term hyperalgesia after formalin injection. DUL may produce potent analgesic effects on the hyperalgesia and decrease the expressions of p-ERK through increasing the concentration of serotonin in the CeA. PMID:29692727

  9. Analgesic Effects of Duloxetine on Formalin-Induced Hyperalgesia and Its Underlying Mechanisms in the CeA.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Lie; Yin, Jun-Bin; Hu, Wei; Zhao, Wen-Jun; Fan, Qing-Rong; Qiu, Zhi-Chun; He, Ming-Jie; Ding, Tan; Sun, Yan; Kaye, Alan D; Wang, En-Ren

    2018-01-01

    In rodents, the amygdala has been proposed to serve as a key center for the nociceptive perception. Previous studies have shown that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascade in the central nucleus of amygdala (CeA) played a functional role in inflammation-induced peripheral hypersensitivity. Duloxetine (DUL), a serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, produced analgesia on formalin-induced spontaneous pain behaviors. However, it is still unclear whether single DUL pretreatment influences formalin-induced hypersensitivity and what is the underlying mechanism. In the current study, we revealed that systemic pretreatment with DUL not only dose-dependently suppressed the spontaneous pain behaviors, but also relieved mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity induced by formalin hindpaw injection. Consistent with the analgesic effects of DUL on the pain behaviors, the expressions of Fos and pERK that were used to check the neuronal activities in the spinal cord and CeA were also dose-dependently reduced following DUL pretreatment. Meanwhile, no emotional aversive behaviors were observed at 24 h after formalin injection. The concentration of 5-HT in the CeA was correlated with the dose of DUL in a positive manner at 24 h after formalin injection. Direct injecting 5-HT into the CeA suppressed both the spontaneous pain behaviors and hyperalgesia induced by formalin injection. However, DUL did not have protective effects on the formalin-induced edema of hindpaw. In sum, the activation of CeA neurons may account for the transition from acute pain to long-term hyperalgesia after formalin injection. DUL may produce potent analgesic effects on the hyperalgesia and decrease the expressions of p-ERK through increasing the concentration of serotonin in the CeA.

  10. Postictal ventricular tachycardia after electroconvulsive therapy treatment associated with a lithium-duloxetine combination.

    PubMed

    Heinz, Boeker; Lorenzo, Perniola; Markus, Risch; Holger, Himmighoffen; Beatrix, Roemer; Erich, Seifritz; Alain, Borgeat

    2013-09-01

    This report addresses the dilemma of continuing lithium prophylaxis and antidepressant therapy in view of cardiovascular adverse effects under electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in patients with a long history of recurrent affective disorders. A severely depressed 48-year-old woman who had been treated with lithium for 18 years developed a ventricular tachycardia during ECT. Possible interaction with succinylcholine was taken into account, and rocuronium was used as an alternative muscle relaxant. Electroconvulsive therapy was continued without adverse effects after reduction of lithium and withdrawal from duloxetine. Systemic studies on cardiac adverse effects of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor-lithium combinations during ECT are needed.

  11. Antidepressants but not antipsychotics have antiepileptogenic effects with limited effects on comorbid depressive-like behaviour in the WAG/Rij rat model of absence epilepsy

    PubMed Central

    Citraro, Rita; Leo, Antonio; De Fazio, Pasquale; De Sarro, Giovambattista; Russo, Emilio

    2015-01-01

    Background and Purpose Two of the most relevant unmet needs in epilepsy are represented by the development of disease-modifying drugs able to affect epileptogenesis and/or the study of related neuropsychiatric comorbidities. No systematic study has investigated the effects of chronic treatment with antipsychotics or antidepressants on epileptogenesis. However, such drugs are known to influence seizure threshold. Experimental Approach We evaluated the effects of an early long-term treatment (ELTT; 17 weeks), started before seizure onset (P45), with fluoxetine (selective 5-HT-reuptake inhibitor), duloxetine (dual-acting 5-HT-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor), haloperidol (typical antipsychotic drug), risperidone and quetiapine (atypical antipsychotic drugs) on the development of absence seizures and comorbid depressive-like behaviour in the WAG/Rij rat model. Furthermore, we studied the effects of these drugs on established absence seizures in adult (6-month-old) rats after a chronic 7 weeks treatment. Key Results ELTT with all antipsychotics did not affect the development of seizures, whereas, both ELTT haloperidol (1 mg·kg−1 day−1) and risperidone (0.5 mg·kg−1 day−1) increased immobility time in the forced swimming test and increased absence seizures only in adult rats (7 weeks treatment). In contrast, both fluoxetine (30 mg·kg−1 day−1) and duloxetine (10–30 mg·kg−1 day−1) exhibited clear antiepileptogenic effects. Duloxetine decreased and fluoxetine increased absence seizures in adult rats. Duloxetine did not affect immobility time; fluoxetine 30 mg·kg−1 day−1 reduced immobility time while at 10 mg·kg−1 day−1 an increase was observed. Conclusions and Implications In this animal model, antipsychotics had no antiepileptogenic effects and might worsen depressive-like comorbidity, while antidepressants have potential antiepileptogenic effects even though they have limited effects on comorbid depressive-like behaviour. PMID:25754610

  12. Duloxetine in OsteoArthritis (DOA) study: study protocol of a pragmatic open-label randomised controlled trial assessing the effect of preoperative pain treatment on postoperative outcome after total hip or knee arthroplasty

    PubMed Central

    Blikman, T; Rienstra, W; van Raaij, T M; ten Hagen, A J; Dijkstra, B; Zijlstra, W P; Bulstra, S K; van den Akker-Scheek, I; Stevens, M

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Residual pain is a major factor in patient dissatisfaction following total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA). The proportion of patients with unfavourable long-term residual pain is high, ranging from 7% to 34%. There are studies indicating that a preoperative degree of central sensitisation (CS) is associated with poorer postoperative outcomes and residual pain. It is thus hypothesised that preoperative treatment of CS could enhance postoperative outcomes. Duloxetine has been shown to be effective for several chronic pain syndromes, including knee osteoarthritis (OA), in which CS is most likely one of the underlying pain mechanisms. This study aims to evaluate the postoperative effects of preoperative screening and targeted duloxetine treatment of CS on residual pain compared with care-as-usual. Methods and analysis This multicentre, pragmatic, prospective, open-label, randomised controlled trial includes patients with idiopathic hip/knee OA who are on a waiting list for primary THA/TKA. Patients at risk for CS will be randomly allocated to the preoperative duloxetine treatment programme group or the care-as-usual control group. The primary end point is the degree of postoperative pain 6 months after THA/TKA. Secondary end points at multiple time points up to 12 months postoperatively are: pain, neuropathic pain-like symptoms, (pain) sensitisation, pain catastrophising, joint-associated problems, physical activity, health-related quality of life, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and perceived improvement. Data will be analysed on an intention-to-treat basis. Ethics and dissemination The study is approved by the local Medical Ethics Committee (METc 2014/087) and will be conducted according to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki (64th, 2013) and the Good Clinical Practice standard (GCP), and in compliance with the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). Trial registration number 2013-004313-41; Pre-results. PMID:26932142

  13. Evaluation of patient-rated stiffness associated with fibromyalgia: a post-hoc analysis of 4 pooled, randomized clinical trials of duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Bennett, Robert; Russell, I Jon; Choy, Ernest; Spaeth, Michael; Mease, Philip; Kajdasz, Daniel; Walker, Daniel; Wang, Fujun; Chappell, Amy

    2012-04-01

    Patients with fibromyalgia (FM) rate stiffness as one of the most troublesome symptoms of the disorder. However, there are few published studies that have focused on better understanding the nature of stiffness in FM. The primary objectives of these analyses were to characterize the distribution of stiffness severity in patients at baseline, evaluate changes in stiffness after 12 weeks of treatment with duloxetine, and determine which outcomes were correlated with stiffness. These were post-hoc analyses of 3-month data from 4 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies that assessed efficacy of duloxetine in adults with FM. Severity of stiffness was assessed by using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) on a scale from 0 (no stiffness) to 10 (most severe stiffness). The association between changes in stiffness and other measures was evaluated by using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The FIQ total score and items, the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI-modified short form), the Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale, the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Sheehan Disability Scale, the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey, and the EuroQoL Questionnaire-5 Dimensions were evaluated in the correlation analyses. Stepwise linear regression was used to identify the variables that were most highly predictive of the changes in FIQ stiffness. The analysis included 1332 patients (mean age, 50.2 years; 94.7% female; and 87.8% white). The mean (SD) baseline FIQ stiffness score was 7.7 (2.0), and this score correlated with baseline BPI pain score and FIQ function. Duloxetine significantly improved the FIQ stiffness score compared with placebo (P < 0.001) and provided a moderate effect size (0.23 for the 60-mg dose and 0.38 for the 120-mg dose). Changes in stiffness were best correlated (range, 0.52-0.75; all, P < 0.001) with changes in BPI/FIQ pain and interference scores, FIQ nonrefreshing sleep, FIQ anxiety, 36-item Short-Form Health Survey bodily pain, and Sheehan Disability Scale total score. Variables related to severity of pain, pain interfering with daily activities, and physical functioning were predictors of change in stiffness. Stiffness scores were high in this population with FM and best correlated at baseline with BPI pain score and FIQ function. Not unexpectedly, improvement in stiffness with duloxetine correlated with many of the other markers of FM severity, presumably a result of amelioration in FM comorbidities. Copyright © 2012. Published by EM Inc USA.

  14. Face-to-face comparison of the predictive validity of two models of neuropathic pain in the rat: analgesic activity of pregabalin, tramadol and duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Le Cudennec, Camille; Castagné, Vincent

    2014-07-15

    We compared the preclinical analgesic activity of three marketed drugs with different pharmacological properties, pregabalin, tramadol and duloxetine, described as effective against neuropathic pain in the clinic. These drugs were tested against evoked pain in two different neuropathic models in the rat, the Bennett (CCI) and the Chung (SNL) models. The selected endpoints were tactile allodynia, tactile hyperalgesia, heat hyperalgesia and cold allodynia. Although all three drugs displayed analgesic activity, the effects observed varied according to the behavioral evaluation. Pregabalin showed clear analgesic effects against cold allodynia and tactile hyperalgesia in both the CCI and Chung models. Tramadol was active against all four endpoints in the Chung model with similar effects in the CCI model, apart from tactile allodynia. Duloxetine inhibited tactile allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in both neuropathic pain models. It also displayed efficacy against tactile hyperalgesia in the CCI model and against cold allodynia in the Chung model. These data confirm that the CCI and the Chung models of neuropathic pain do not detect the activity of analgesics with the same sensitivity. Furthermore, the mode of stimulation (tactile or thermal) and the type of endpoint (allodynia or hyperalgesia) can further influence the observed efficacy of gold standards as well as novel compounds developed for treating neuropathic pain symptoms. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  15. Drug Reduces Cancer Treatment-Related Joint Pain

    Cancer.gov

    A Cancer Currents blog post about a clinical trial demonstrating that duloxetine (Cymbalta®) may reduce joint pain caused by aromatase inhibitors in women being treated for early-stage breast cancer.

  16. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of transmural collaborative care with consultation letter (TCCCL) and duloxetine for major depressive disorder (MDD) and (sub)chronic pain in collaboration with primary care: design of a randomized placebo-controlled multi-Centre trial: TCC:PAINDIP.

    PubMed

    de Heer, Eric W; Dekker, Jack; van Eck van der Sluijs, Jonna F; Beekman, Aartjan Tf; van Marwijk, Harm Wj; Holwerda, Tjalling J; Bet, Pierre M; Roth, Joost; Hakkaart-Van Roijen, Leona; Ringoir, Lianne; Kat, Fiona; van der Feltz-Cornelis, Christina M

    2013-05-24

    The comorbidity of pain and depression is associated with high disease burden for patients in terms of disability, wellbeing, and use of medical care. Patients with major and minor depression often present themselves with pain to a general practitioner and recognition of depression in such cases is low, but evolving. Also, physical symptoms, including pain, in major depressive disorder, predict a poorer response to treatment. A multi-faceted, patient-tailored treatment programme, like collaborative care, is promising. However, treatment of chronic pain conditions in depressive patients has, so far, received limited attention in research. Cost effectiveness of an integrated approach of pain in depressed patients has not been studied. This study is a placebo controlled double blind, three armed randomized multi centre trial. Patients with (sub)chronic pain and a depressive disorder are randomized to either a) collaborative care with duloxetine, b) collaborative care with placebo or c) duloxetine alone. 189 completers are needed to attain sufficient power to show a clinically significant effect of 0.6 SD on the primary outcome measures (PHQ-9 score). Data on depression, anxiety, mental and physical health, medication adherence, medication tolerability, quality of life, patient-doctor relationship, coping, health resource use and productivity will be collected at baseline and after three, six, nine and twelve months. This study enables us to show the value of a closely monitored integrated treatment model above usual pharmacological treatment. Furthermore, a comparison with a placebo arm enables us to evaluate effectiveness of duloxetine in this population in a real life setting. Also, this study will provide evidence-based treatments and tools for their implementation in practice. This will facilitate generalization and implementation of results of this study. Moreover, patients included in this study are screened for pain symptoms, differentiating between nociceptive and neuropathic pain. Therefore, pain relief can be thoroughly evaluated. NTR1089.

  17. Duloxetine in OsteoArthritis (DOA) study: study protocol of a pragmatic open-label randomised controlled trial assessing the effect of preoperative pain treatment on postoperative outcome after total hip or knee arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Blikman, T; Rienstra, W; van Raaij, T M; ten Hagen, A J; Dijkstra, B; Zijlstra, W P; Bulstra, S K; van den Akker-Scheek, I; Stevens, M

    2016-03-01

    Residual pain is a major factor in patient dissatisfaction following total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA). The proportion of patients with unfavourable long-term residual pain is high, ranging from 7% to 34%. There are studies indicating that a preoperative degree of central sensitisation (CS) is associated with poorer postoperative outcomes and residual pain. It is thus hypothesised that preoperative treatment of CS could enhance postoperative outcomes. Duloxetine has been shown to be effective for several chronic pain syndromes, including knee osteoarthritis (OA), in which CS is most likely one of the underlying pain mechanisms. This study aims to evaluate the postoperative effects of preoperative screening and targeted duloxetine treatment of CS on residual pain compared with care-as-usual. This multicentre, pragmatic, prospective, open-label, randomised controlled trial includes patients with idiopathic hip/knee OA who are on a waiting list for primary THA/TKA. Patients at risk for CS will be randomly allocated to the preoperative duloxetine treatment programme group or the care-as-usual control group. The primary end point is the degree of postoperative pain 6 months after THA/TKA. Secondary end points at multiple time points up to 12 months postoperatively are: pain, neuropathic pain-like symptoms, (pain) sensitisation, pain catastrophising, joint-associated problems, physical activity, health-related quality of life, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and perceived improvement. Data will be analysed on an intention-to-treat basis. The study is approved by the local Medical Ethics Committee (METc 2014/087) and will be conducted according to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki (64th, 2013) and the Good Clinical Practice standard (GCP), and in compliance with the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). 2013-004313-41; Pre-results. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  18. Cost-effectiveness analysis of a new 8% capsaicin patch compared to existing therapies for postherpetic neuralgia.

    PubMed

    Armstrong, Edward P; Malone, Daniel C; McCarberg, Bill; Panarites, Christopher J; Pham, Sissi V

    2011-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare the cost effectiveness of a new 8% capsaicin patch, compared to the current treatments for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), including tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), topical lidocaine patches, duloxetine, gabapentin, and pregabalin. A 1-year Markov model was constructed for PHN with monthly cycles, including dose titration and management of adverse events. The perspective of the analysis was from a payer perspective, managed-care organization. Clinical trials were used to determine the proportion of patients achieving at least a 30% improvement in PHN pain, the efficacy parameter. The outcome was cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY); second-order probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted. The effectiveness results indicated that 8% capsaicin patch and topical lidocaine patch were significantly more effective than the oral PHN products. TCAs were least costly and significantly less costly than duloxetine, pregabalin, topical lidocaine patch, 8% capsaicin patch, but not gabapentin. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for the 8% capsaicin patch overlapped with the topical lidocaine patch and was within the accepted threshold of cost per QALY gained compared to TCAs, duloxetine, gabapentin, and pregablin. The frequency of the 8% capsaicin patch retreatment assumption significantly impacts its cost-effectiveness results. There are several limitations to this analysis. Since no head-to-head studies were identified, this model used inputs from multiple clinical trials. Also, a last observation carried forward process was assumed to have continued for the duration of the model. Additionally, the trials with duloxetine may have over-predicted its efficacy in PHN. Although a 30% improvement in pain is often an endpoint in clinical trials, some patients may require greater or less improvement in pain to be considered a clinical success. The effectiveness results demonstrated that 8% capsaicin and topical lidocaine patches had significantly higher effectiveness rates than the oral agents used to treat PHN. In addition, this cost-effectiveness analysis found that the 8% capsaicin patch was similar to topical lidocaine patch and within an accepted cost per QALY gained threshold compared to the oral products.

  19. Efficacy of Duloxetine in the Early Management of Urinary Continence after Radical Prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Alan, Cabir; Eren, Ali E; Ersay, Ahmet R; Kocoglu, Hasan; Basturk, Gokhan; Demirci, Emrah

    2015-05-01

    To evaluate the efficacy of early duloxetine therapy in stress urinary incontinence occurring after radical prostatectomy (RP). Patients that had RP were randomly divided into 2 groups following the removal of the urinary catheter. Group A patients (n = 28) had pelvic floor exercise and duloxetine therapy. Group B patients (n = 30) had only pelvic floor exercise. The incontinence status of the patients and number of pads were recorded and 1-hour pad test and Turkish validation of International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form test were applied to the patients at the follow-up. When the dry state of the patients was evaluated, 5, 17, 3, and 2 of 28 Group A patients stated that they were completely dry in the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th month respectively and pad use was stopped. There was no continence in 30 Group B in the first 3 months. Twelve, 6, and 8 patients stated that they were completely dry in the 6th, 9th and 12th month, respectively. But 3 of 4 patients in whom dryness could not be provided were using a mean of 7.6 pads in the first day and a mean of 1.3 pads after 1 year. When pad use of the patients was evaluated, the mean monthly number of pad use was determined to be 6.2 (4-8) in the initial evaluation, 2.7 (0-5) in the in 3rd month, 2 (0-3) in the 6th month and 1.6 (0-2) pad/d in the 9th month in the group taking medicine. The mean monthly number of pads used was determined to be 5.8 (4-8) in the initial evaluation, 4.3 (3-8) in the 3rd month, 3 (0-6) in the 6th month and 1.6 (0-6) pad/d in the 9th month in the group not taking medicine. According to the results, early duloxetine therapy in stress urinary incontinence that occurred after RP provided early continence.

  20. Duloxetine

    MedlinePlus

    ... www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/UCM096273.No matter your age, before you take an antidepressant, you, ... abdomen itching yellowing of the skin or eyes dark colored urine loss of appetite extreme tiredness or ...

  1. Altruism, personal benefit, and anxieties: a phenomenological study of healthy volunteers' experiences in a placebo‐controlled trial of duloxetine

    PubMed Central

    Kwakye, Isaac N.; Garner, Matthew; Baldwin, David S.; Bamford, Susan; Pinkney, Verity

    2016-01-01

    Objective The objective of this study was to develop an in‐depth understanding of healthy volunteers' experiences of mental health trials. Methods A qualitative study was nested within a healthy volunteer placebo‐controlled trial of duloxetine, a psychotropic drug used for treating patients with major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Eight participants were interviewed, and data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results Interviewees described volunteering for the trial because they were interested in research, wanted the monetary incentive, wanted to help researchers, and wanted to be part of something. On entering the trial, participants considered the possible risks and described feeling anxious, excited, and determined; they had some clear expectations and some loosely held hopes about what would happen. During the trial, participants were curious about whether they were taking duloxetine or placebo, self‐monitored their bodies' reactions, and guessed which treatment they received. On being un‐blinded to treatment allocation after completing the trial, some participants' guesses were confirmed, but others were surprised, and a few were disappointed. Conclusions Small changes to advertising/consent materials to reflect volunteers' motivations could improve recruitment rates to similar trials; “active” placebos might be particularly useful for maintaining blinding in healthy volunteer trials; and sensitive procedures are needed for un‐blinding participants to treatment allocation. © 2016 The Authors. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID:27378326

  2. Development and validation of a UPLC method for the determination of duloxetine hydrochloride residues on pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Kumar, Navneet; Sangeetha, D.; Balakrishna, P.

    2011-01-01

    Background: In pharmaceutical industries, it is very important to remove drug residues from the equipment and areas used. The cleaning procedure must be validated, so special attention must be devoted to the methods used for analysis of trace amounts of drugs. A rapid, sensitive, and specific reverse phase ultra-performance liquid chromatographic (UPLC) method was developed for the quantitative determination of duloxetine in cleaning validation swab samples. Material and Methods: The method was validated using an Acquity UPLC™ HSS T3 (100 × 2.1 mm2) 1.8 μm column with a isocratic mobile phase containing a mixture of 0.01 M potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate, pH adjusted to 3.0 with orthophosphoric acid and acetonitrile (60:40 v/v). The flow rate of the mobile phase was 0.4 ml/min with a column temperature of 40°C and detection wavelength at 230 nm. Cotton swabs, moisten with extraction solution (90% methanol and 10% water), were used to remove any residue of drug from stainless steel, glass and silica surfaces, and give recoveries >80% at four concentration levels. Results: The precision of the results, reported as the relative standard deviation, were below 1.5%. The calibration curve was linear over a concentration range from 0.02 to 5.0 μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.999. The detection limit and quantitation limit were 0.006 and 0.02 μg/ml, respectively. The method was validated over a concentration range of 0.05–5.0 μg/ml. Conclusion: The developed method was validated with respect to specificity, linearity, limit of detection and quantification, accuracy, precision, and robustness. PMID:23781449

  3. Pain management discussion forum: serious interaction among frequently used drugs for chronic pain.

    PubMed

    Breivik, Harald

    2014-06-01

    A query and response regarding a patient who was taking high-dose tramadol and duloxetine is presented. The patient developed serotonin syndrome. Risks for this clinically important drug interaction and management of the syndrome are discussed.

  4. Levomilnacipran (F2695), a norepinephrine-preferring SNRI: profile in vitro and in models of depression and anxiety.

    PubMed

    Auclair, A L; Martel, J C; Assié, M B; Bardin, L; Heusler, P; Cussac, D; Marien, M; Newman-Tancredi, A; O'Connor, J A; Depoortère, R

    2013-07-01

    Levomilnacipran (LVM; F2695) is the more active enantiomer of the serotonin/norepinephrine (5-HT/NE) reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) milnacipran and is currently under development for the treatment of major depressive disorder. LVM was benchmarked against two other SNRIs, duloxetine and venlafaxine, in biochemical, neurochemical and pharmacological assays. LVM exhibited high affinity for human NE (Ki = 92.2 nM) and 5-HT (11.2 nM) transporters, and potently inhibited NE (IC50 = 10.5 nM) and 5-HT (19.0 nM) reuptake (human transporter) in vitro. LVM had 2-fold greater potency for norepinephrine relative to serotonin reuptake inhibition (i.e. NE/5-HT potency ratio: 0.6) and 17 and 27 times higher selectivity for NE reuptake inhibition compared with venlafaxine and duloxetine, respectively. LVM did not exhibit affinity for 23 off-target receptors. LVM (i.p.) increased cortical extracellular levels of 5-HT, and NE (minimal effective doses: MEDs = 20 and 10 mg/kg, respectively). In anti-depressive/anti-stress models, i.p. LVM diminished immobility time in the mouse forced swim (MED = 20 mg/kg) and tail suspension (MED = 2.5 mg/kg) tests, and reduced shock-induced ultrasonic vocalizations in rats (MED = 5 mg/kg). Duloxetine and venlafaxine were less potent (MEDs ≥ 10 mg/kg). At doses active in these three therapeutically-relevant models, LVM (i.p.) did not significantly affect spontaneous locomotor activity. In summary, LVM is a potent, selective inhibitor of NE and 5-HT transporters with preferential activity at the former. It is efficacious in models of anti-depressive/anti-stress activity, with minimal potential for locomotor side effects. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Treatment Patterns Associated with ACR-Recommended Medications in the Management of Fibromyalgia in the United States.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yifei; Qian, Chunlin; Yang, Mei

    2016-03-01

    Fibromyalgia (FM) affects up to 6% of U.S. adults, resulting in a significant burden on the health care system and poor quality of life for patients. Duloxetine, pregabalin, and milnacipran are approved for management of FM; however, consensus is lacking regarding optimal therapy. Patients with FM taking approved medications often do not experience meaningful symptom relief, and many experience intolerable adverse events. To assess treatment patterns associated with available and commonly used medications for the management of FM using U.S. health insurance claims. This retrospective analysis used the MarketScan claims database to identify adults with a first diagnosis of FM (ICD-9-CM code 729.1) between 2009 and 2011 with continuous health plan enrollment for 12 months pre- and post-index. Medications of interest were pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine, milnacipran, cyclobenzaprine, and tramadol. These are 6 of the 8 medications recommended by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) for treating FM; the other 2 (amitriptyline and venlafaxine) were only included in some initial assessments. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was used to assess overall comorbidity burden. Endpoints included proportion of patients treated within 1 year after first diagnosis; initial treatment pattern; adherence over the first-year follow-up period for the medications of interest; and discontinuation, switching, and combination therapy patterns among pain medications of interest at different time points. Proportion of days covered (PDC; defined as number of days in the period when the patient had drug supply divided by the number of days in the period) was used to define adherence, which was categorized as low (PDC < 50%), medium (PDC 50% to < 80%), or high (PDC ≥ 80%). The time to discontinuation (defined as the first drug supply gap ≥ 90 days) was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Overall, 240,144 patients met the inclusion criteria. Patients were predominantly women (68%), had preferred provider organization insurance coverage (68%), and had a CCI score < 1 at baseline (69%). Only 31% (n = 74,738) initiated a treatment with a prescription medication listed in the ACR guidelines, and many patients received less than the recommended dose. Most (n = 70,919) patients initially received monotherapy with one of the 8 prescription medications. Of those who started with ≥ 2 medications (n = 3,819), cyclobenzaprine plus tramadol was the most frequent combination. Adherence was suboptimal for all 6 medications of interest. Duloxetine had the highest mean PDC (59%); for all other agents, mean PDC was < 50%. With the exception of duloxetine, discontinuation rates at 6 months were > 50% for all agents. Alterations in therapy were common. Among patients who discontinued their initial treatment of duloxetine, pregabalin, or milnacipran, approximately one-third had switched treatments within 90 days after their first prescription. For those who maintained their initial treatment agent, approximately 50% of patients added a second pain medication within 1 year of treatment initiation. The evidence suggests that patients with FM often do not receive 1 of the prescription medications recommended by ACR guidelines, and those who do are commonly prescribed lower-than-recommended doses, potentially resulting in poor effectiveness and tolerability. Discontinuation, switching, and addition of new pain medications are common, which may indicate low levels of satisfaction with initial treatment. New therapies with improved effectiveness and better tolerability are urgently needed for patients with FM.

  6. Therapeutic drug monitoring of seven psychotropic drugs and four metabolites in human plasma by HPLC-MS.

    PubMed

    Choong, Eva; Rudaz, Serge; Kottelat, Astrid; Guillarme, Davy; Veuthey, Jean-Luc; Eap, Chin B

    2009-12-05

    A simple and sensitive LC-MS method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of aripiprazole (ARI), atomoxetine (ATO), duloxetine (DUL), clozapine (CLO), olanzapine (OLA), sertindole (STN), venlafaxine (VEN) and their active metabolites dehydroaripiprazole (DARI), norclozapine (NCLO), dehydrosertindole (DSTN) and O-desmethylvenlafaxine (OVEN) in human plasma. The above mentioned compounds and the internal standard (remoxipride) were extracted from 0.5 mL plasma by solid-phase extraction (mix mode support). The analytical separation was carried out on a reverse phase liquid chromatography at basic pH (pH 8.1) in gradient mode. All analytes were monitored by MS detection in the single ion monitoring mode and the method was validated covering the corresponding therapeutic range: 2-200 ng/mL for DUL, OLA, and STN, 4-200 ng/mL for DSTN, 5-1000 ng/mL for ARI, DARI and finally 2-1000 ng/mL for ATO, CLO, NCLO, VEN, OVEN. For all investigated compounds, good performance in terms of recoveries, selectivity, stability, repeatability, intermediate precision, trueness and accuracy, was obtained. Real patient plasma samples were then successfully analysed.

  7. Another cause of headache after epidural injection.

    PubMed

    Anwari, Jamil S; Hazazi, Abdulaziz A

    2015-04-01

    Headache is a potential complication of epidural injection. We report a patient who developed headache 5 days after a lumbar epidural steroid injection, which was not related to the epidural procedure, but caused by Duloxetine induced hyponatremia. Antidepressant drug induced headache should be considered in the differential diagnosis of post dural puncture headache.

  8. Chronic treatment with prazosin or duloxetine lessens concurrent anxiety-like behavior and alcohol intake: evidence of disrupted noradrenergic signaling in anxiety-related alcohol use

    PubMed Central

    Skelly, Mary J; Weiner, Jeff L

    2014-01-01

    Background Alcohol use disorders have been linked to increased anxiety, and enhanced central noradrenergic signaling may partly explain this relationship. Pharmacological interventions believed to reduce the excitatory effects of norepinephrine have proven effective in attenuating ethanol intake in alcoholics as well as in rodent models of ethanol dependence. However, most preclinical investigations into the effectiveness of these drugs in decreasing ethanol intake have been limited to acute observations, and none have concurrently assessed their anxiolytic effects. The purpose of these studies was to examine the long-term effectiveness of pharmacological interventions presumed to decrease norepinephrine signaling on concomitant ethanol self-administration and anxiety-like behavior in adult rats with relatively high levels of antecedent anxiety-like behavior. Methods Adult male Long-Evans rats self-administered ethanol on an intermittent access schedule for eight to ten weeks prior to being implanted with osmotic minipumps containing either an a1-adrenoreceptor antagonist (prazosin, 1.5 mg/kg/day), a β1/2-adrenoreceptor antagonist (propranolol, 2.5 mg/kg/day), a serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (duloxetine, 1.5 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (10% dimethyl sulfoxide). These drugs were continuously delivered across four weeks, during which animals continued to have intermittent access to ethanol. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed on the elevated plus maze before treatment and again near the end of the drug delivery period. Results Our results indicate that chronic treatment with a low dose of prazosin or duloxetine significantly decreases ethanol self-administration (P < 0.05). Furthermore, this decrease in drinking is accompanied by significant reductions in the expression of anxiety-like behavior (P < 0.05). Conclusions These findings suggest that chronic treatment with putative inhibitors of central noradrenergic signaling may attenuate ethanol intake via a reduction in anxiety-like behavior. PMID:25161814

  9. Chronic treatment with prazosin or duloxetine lessens concurrent anxiety-like behavior and alcohol intake: evidence of disrupted noradrenergic signaling in anxiety-related alcohol use.

    PubMed

    Skelly, Mary J; Weiner, Jeff L

    2014-07-01

    Alcohol use disorders have been linked to increased anxiety, and enhanced central noradrenergic signaling may partly explain this relationship. Pharmacological interventions believed to reduce the excitatory effects of norepinephrine have proven effective in attenuating ethanol intake in alcoholics as well as in rodent models of ethanol dependence. However, most preclinical investigations into the effectiveness of these drugs in decreasing ethanol intake have been limited to acute observations, and none have concurrently assessed their anxiolytic effects. The purpose of these studies was to examine the long-term effectiveness of pharmacological interventions presumed to decrease norepinephrine signaling on concomitant ethanol self-administration and anxiety-like behavior in adult rats with relatively high levels of antecedent anxiety-like behavior. Adult male Long-Evans rats self-administered ethanol on an intermittent access schedule for eight to ten weeks prior to being implanted with osmotic minipumps containing either an a1-adrenoreceptor antagonist (prazosin, 1.5 mg/kg/day), a β1/2-adrenoreceptor antagonist (propranolol, 2.5 mg/kg/day), a serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (duloxetine, 1.5 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (10% dimethyl sulfoxide). These drugs were continuously delivered across four weeks, during which animals continued to have intermittent access to ethanol. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed on the elevated plus maze before treatment and again near the end of the drug delivery period. Our results indicate that chronic treatment with a low dose of prazosin or duloxetine significantly decreases ethanol self-administration (P < 0.05). Furthermore, this decrease in drinking is accompanied by significant reductions in the expression of anxiety-like behavior (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that chronic treatment with putative inhibitors of central noradrenergic signaling may attenuate ethanol intake via a reduction in anxiety-like behavior.

  10. Economic evaluation of duloxetine as a first-line treatment for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Mexico.

    PubMed

    Carlos, Fernando; Ramírez-Gámez, Jocelyn; Dueñas, Héctor; Galindo-Suárez, Rosa María; Ramos, Elisa

    2012-01-01

    To perform an economic evaluation of duloxetine, pregabalin, and both branded and generic gabapentin for managing pain in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN) in Mexico. The analysis was conducted using a 3-month decision model, which compares duloxetine 60 mg once daily (DUL), pregabalin 150 mg twice daily (PGB), and gabapentin 600 mg three-times daily (GBP) for PDPN patients with moderate-to-severe pain. A systematic review was performed and placebo-adjusted risk ratios for achieving good pain relief (GPR), adverse events (AE), and withdrawal owing to intolerable AE were calculated. Direct medical costs included drug acquisition and additional visits due to lack of efficacy (poor pain relief) or intolerable AE. Unit costs were taken from local sources. Adherence rates were used to estimate the expected drug costs. All costs are expressed in 2010 Mexican Pesos (MXN). Utility values drawn from published literature were applied to health states. The proportion of patients with GPR and quality-adjusted life years (QALY) were assessed. Branded-GBP was dominated by all the other options. PGB was more costly and less effective than DUL. Compared with branded-GBP and PGB, DUL led to savings of 1.01 and 1.74 million MXN (per 1000 patients). The incremental cost per QALY gained with DUL used instead of generic-GBP was $102 433 MXN. This amount is slightly lower than the estimated gross domestic product per capita in Mexico for 2010. During a second-order Monte Carlo simulation, DUL had the highest probability of being cost-effective (61%), followed by generic-GBP (25%) and PGB (14%). Study limitations include a short timeframe and using data from different dosage schemes for GBP and PGB. This study suggests that DUL provides overall savings and better health outcomes compared with branded-GBP and PGB. Administering DUL rather than generic-GBP is a cost-effective intervention to manage PDPN in Mexico.

  11. Vortioxetine, but not escitalopram or duloxetine, reverses memory impairment induced by central 5-HT depletion in rats: evidence for direct 5-HT receptor modulation.

    PubMed

    Jensen, Jesper Bornø; du Jardin, Kristian Gaarn; Song, Dekun; Budac, David; Smagin, Gennady; Sanchez, Connie; Pehrson, Alan Lars

    2014-01-01

    Depressed patients suffer from cognitive dysfunction, including memory deficits. Acute serotonin (5-HT) depletion impairs memory and mood in vulnerable patients. The investigational multimodal acting antidepressant vortioxetine is a 5-HT3, 5-HT7 and 5-HT1D receptor antagonist, 5-HT1B receptor partial agonist, 5-HT1A receptor agonist and 5-HT transporter (SERT) inhibitor that enhances memory in normal rats in novel object recognition (NOR) and conditioned fear (Mørk et al., 2013). We hypothesized that vortioxetine's 5-HT receptor mechanisms are involved in its memory effects, and therefore investigated these effects in 5-HT depleted rats. Four injections of the irreversible tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor 4-chloro-dl-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride (PCPA, 86mg/kg, s.c.) induced 5-HT depletion, as measured in hippocampal homogenate and microdialysate. The effects of acute challenge with vortioxetine or the 5-HT releaser fenfluramine on extracellular 5-HT were measured in PCPA-treated and control rats. PCPA's effects on NOR and spontaneous alternation (SA) performance were assessed along with the effects of acute treatment with 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan (5-HTP), vortioxetine, the selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitor escitalopram, or the 5-HT norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine. SERT occupancies were estimated by ex vivo autoradiography. PCPA depleted central 5-HT by >90% in tissue and microdialysate, and impaired NOR and SA performance. Restoring central 5-HT with 5-HTP reversed these deficits. At similar SERT occupancies (>90%) vortioxetine, but not escitalopram or duloxetine, restored memory performance. Acute fenfluramine significantly increased extracellular 5-HT in control and PCPA-treated rats, while vortioxetine did so only in control rats. Thus, vortioxetine restores 5-HT depletion impaired memory performance in rats through one or more of its receptor activities. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. and ECNP.

  12. The analgesic effect of orexin-A in a murine model of chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Toyama, Satoshi; Shimoyama, Naohito; Shimoyama, Megumi

    2017-02-01

    Orexins are neuropeptides that are localized to neurons in the lateral and dorsal hypothalamus but its receptors are distributed to many different regions of the central nervous system. Orexins are implicated in a variety of physiological functions including sleep regulation, energy homeostats, and stress reactions. Furthermore, orexins administered exogenously have been shown to have analgesic effects in animal models. A type of intractable pain in patients is pain due to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Several chemotherapeutic agents used for the treatment of malignant diseases induce dose-limiting neuropathic pain that compromises patients' quality of life. Here, we examined the analgesic effect of orexin-A in a murine model of CIPN, and compared it with the effect of duloxetine, the only drug recommended for the treatment of CIPN pain in patients. CIPN was induced in male BALB/c mice by repeated intraperitoneal injection of oxaliplatin, a platinum chemotherapeutic agent used for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. Neuropathic mechanical allodynia was assessed by the von Frey test, and the effect on acute thermal pain was assessed by the tail flick test. Intracerebroventricularly administered orexin-A dose-dependently attenuated oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia and increased tail flick latencies. Oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia was completely reversed by orexin-A at a low dose that did not increase tail flick latency. Duloxetine only partially reversed mechanical allodynia and had no effect on tail flick latency. The analgesic effect of orexin-A on oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia was completely antagonized by prior intraperitoneal injection of SB-408124 (orexin type-1 receptor antagonist), but not by prior intraperitoneal injection of TCS-OX2-29 (orexin type-2 receptor antagonist). Our findings suggest that orexin-A is more potent than duloxetine in relieving pain CIPN pain and its analgesic effect is mediated by orexin type-1 receptors. Orexin type-1 receptor agonists may have potential therapeutic roles in the treatment of CIPN pain in patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Five Patients With Burning Mouth Syndrome in Whom an Antidepressant (Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor) Was Not Effective, but Pregabalin Markedly Relieved Pain.

    PubMed

    Ito, Mikiko; Tokura, Tatsuya; Yoshida, Keizo; Nagashima, Wataru; Kimura, Hiroyuki; Umemura, Eri; Tachibana, Masako; Miyauchi, Tomoya; Kobayashi, Yuka; Arao, Munetaka; Ozaki, Norio; Kurita, Kenichi

    2015-01-01

    Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) causes idiopathic pain or a burning sensation in clinically normal oral mucosa. Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic disease with an unknown etiology. Burning mouth syndrome is also idiopathic, and a consensus regarding diagnosis/treatment has not been reached yet. Recent studies have supported the suggestion that BMS is a neuropathic pain disorder in which both the peripheral and central nervous systems are involved. Tricyclic antidepressants (nortriptyline and amitriptyline), serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (duloxetine and milnacipran), and antiepileptic drugs, potential-dependent calcium channel α2δ subunit ligands (gabapentine and pregabalin), are currently recommended as the first-choice drugs for neuropathic pain. In this study, we report 5 patients with BMS in whom there was no response to SNRI (milnacipran or duloxetine), or administration was discontinued because of adverse reactions, but in whom pregabalin therapy markedly reduced or led to the disappearance of pain in a short period. Pregabalin, whose mechanism of action differs from that of SNRIs, may become a treatment option for BMS patients who are not responsive to or are resistant to SNRIs.

  14. Spinal Disinhibition in Experimental and Clinical Painful Diabetic Neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Marshall, Andrew G.; Lee-Kubli, Corinne; Azmi, Shazli; Zhang, Michael; Ferdousi, Maryam; Mixcoatl-Zecuatl, Teresa; Petropoulos, Ioannis N.; Ponirakis, Georgios; Fineman, Mark S.; Fadavi, Hassan; Frizzi, Katie; Tavakoli, Mitra; Jolivalt, Corinne G.; Boulton, Andrew J.M.; Efron, Nathan; Calcutt, Nigel A.

    2017-01-01

    Impaired rate-dependent depression (RDD) of the Hoffman reflex is associated with reduced dorsal spinal cord potassium chloride cotransporter expression and impaired spinal γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor function, indicative of spinal inhibitory dysfunction. We have investigated the pathogenesis of impaired RDD in diabetic rodents exhibiting features of painful neuropathy and the translational potential of this marker of spinal inhibitory dysfunction in human painful diabetic neuropathy. Impaired RDD and allodynia were present in type 1 and type 2 diabetic rats but not in rats with type 1 diabetes receiving insulin supplementation that did not restore normoglycemia. Impaired RDD in diabetic rats was rapidly normalized by spinal delivery of duloxetine acting via 5-hydroxytryptamine type 2A receptors and temporally coincident with the alleviation of allodynia. Deficits in RDD and corneal nerve density were demonstrated in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy compared with healthy control subjects and patients with painless diabetic neuropathy. Spinal inhibitory dysfunction and peripheral small fiber pathology may contribute to the clinical phenotype in painful diabetic neuropathy. Deficits in RDD may help identify patients with spinally mediated painful diabetic neuropathy who may respond optimally to therapies such as duloxetine. PMID:28202580

  15. Predictors of remission in the treatment of major depressive disorder: real-world evidence from a 6-month prospective observational study

    PubMed Central

    Novick, Diego; Hong, Jihyung; Montgomery, William; Dueñas, Héctor; Gado, Magdy; Haro, Josep Maria

    2015-01-01

    Background This study examined potential predictors of remission among patients treated for major depressive disorder (MDD) in a naturalistic clinical setting, mostly in the Middle East, East Asia, and Mexico. Methods Data for this post hoc analysis were taken from a 6-month prospective, noninterventional, observational study that involved 1,549 MDD patients without sexual dysfunction at baseline in 12 countries worldwide. Depression severity was measured using the Clinical Global Impression of Severity and the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS-SR16). Depression-related pain was measured using the pain-related items of the Somatic Symptom Inventory. Remission was defined as a QIDS-SR16 score ≤5. Generalized estimating equation regression models were used to examine baseline factors associated with remission during follow-up. Results Being from East Asia (odds ratio [OR] 0.48 versus Mexico; P<0.001), a higher level of depression severity at baseline (OR 0.77, P=0.003, for Clinical Global Impression of Severity; OR 0.92, P<0.001, for QIDS-SR16), more previous MDD episodes (OR 0.92, P=0.007), previous treatments/therapies for depression (OR 0.78, P=0.030), and having any significant psychiatric and medical comorbidity at baseline (OR 0.60, P<0.001) were negatively associated with remission, whereas being male (OR 1.29, P=0.026) and treatment with duloxetine (OR 2.38 versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, P<0.001) were positively associated with remission. However, the association between Somatic Symptom Inventory pain scores and remission no longer appeared to be significant in this multiple regression (P=0.580), (P=0.008 in descriptive statistics), although it remained significant in a subgroup of patients treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (OR 0.97, P=0.023), but not in those treated with duloxetine (P=0.182). Conclusion These findings are largely consistent with previous reports from the USA and Europe. They also highlight the potential mediating role of treatment with duloxetine on the negative relationship between depression-related pain and outcomes of depression. PMID:25653529

  16. Predictors of remission in the treatment of major depressive disorder: real-world evidence from a 6-month prospective observational study.

    PubMed

    Novick, Diego; Hong, Jihyung; Montgomery, William; Dueñas, Héctor; Gado, Magdy; Haro, Josep Maria

    2015-01-01

    This study examined potential predictors of remission among patients treated for major depressive disorder (MDD) in a naturalistic clinical setting, mostly in the Middle East, East Asia, and Mexico. Data for this post hoc analysis were taken from a 6-month prospective, noninterventional, observational study that involved 1,549 MDD patients without sexual dysfunction at baseline in 12 countries worldwide. Depression severity was measured using the Clinical Global Impression of Severity and the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS-SR16). Depression-related pain was measured using the pain-related items of the Somatic Symptom Inventory. Remission was defined as a QIDS-SR16 score ≤5. Generalized estimating equation regression models were used to examine baseline factors associated with remission during follow-up. Being from East Asia (odds ratio [OR] 0.48 versus Mexico; P<0.001), a higher level of depression severity at baseline (OR 0.77, P=0.003, for Clinical Global Impression of Severity; OR 0.92, P<0.001, for QIDS-SR16), more previous MDD episodes (OR 0.92, P=0.007), previous treatments/therapies for depression (OR 0.78, P=0.030), and having any significant psychiatric and medical comorbidity at baseline (OR 0.60, P<0.001) were negatively associated with remission, whereas being male (OR 1.29, P=0.026) and treatment with duloxetine (OR 2.38 versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, P<0.001) were positively associated with remission. However, the association between Somatic Symptom Inventory pain scores and remission no longer appeared to be significant in this multiple regression (P=0.580), (P=0.008 in descriptive statistics), although it remained significant in a subgroup of patients treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (OR 0.97, P=0.023), but not in those treated with duloxetine (P=0.182). These findings are largely consistent with previous reports from the USA and Europe. They also highlight the potential mediating role of treatment with duloxetine on the negative relationship between depression-related pain and outcomes of depression.

  17. Antidepressants normalize the default mode network in patients with dysthymia.

    PubMed

    Posner, Jonathan; Hellerstein, David J; Gat, Inbal; Mechling, Anna; Klahr, Kristin; Wang, Zhishun; McGrath, Patrick J; Stewart, Jonathan W; Peterson, Bradley S

    2013-04-01

    The default mode network (DMN) is a collection of brain regions that reliably deactivate during goal-directed behaviors and is more active during a baseline, or so-called resting, condition. Coherence of neural activity, or functional connectivity, within the brain's DMN is increased in major depressive disorder relative to healthy control (HC) subjects; however, whether similar abnormalities are present in persons with dysthymic disorder (DD) is unknown. Moreover, the effect of antidepressant medications on DMN connectivity in patients with DD is also unknown. To use resting-state functional-connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study (1) the functional connectivity of the DMN in subjects with DD vs HC participants and (2) the effects of antidepressant therapy on DMN connectivity. After collecting baseline MRI scans from subjects with DD and HC participants, we enrolled the participants with DD into a 10-week prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of duloxetine and collected MRI scans again at the conclusion of the study. Enrollment occurred between 2007 and 2011. University research institute. Volunteer sample of 41 subjects with DD and 25 HC participants aged 18 to 53 years. Control subjects were group matched to patients with DD by age and sex. We used resting-state functional-connectivity MRI to measure the functional connectivity of the brain's DMN in persons with DD compared with HC subjects, and we examined the effects of treatment with duloxetine vs placebo on DMN connectivity. Of the 41 subjects with DD, 32 completed the clinical trial and MRI scans, along with the 25 HC participants. At baseline, we found that the coherence of neural activity within the brain's DMN was greater in persons with DD compared with HC subjects. Following a 10-week clinical trial, we found that treatment with duloxetine, but not placebo, normalized DMN connectivity. The baseline imaging findings are consistent with those found in patients with major depressive disorder and suggest that increased connectivity within the DMN may be important in the pathophysiology of both acute and chronic manifestations of depressive illness. The normalization of DMN connectivity following antidepressant treatment suggests an important causal pathway through which antidepressants may reduce depression.

  18. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Tomillero, A; Moral, M A

    2009-06-01

    (+)-Dapoxetine hydrochloride; Abatacept, Adalimumab, Agalsidase beta, Alemtuzumab, Alglucosidase alfa, Aliskiren fumarate, Ambrisentan, Amlodipine, Aripiprazole, Atrasentan, Azacitidine, Azelnidipine; Belotecan hydrochloride, Bevacizumab, Bilastine, Biphasic insulin aspart, Bortezomib, Bosentan; Caspofungin acetate, CG-100649, Cinacalcet hydrochloride, Clindamycin phosphate/ benzoyl peroxide; Dasatinib, Denosumab, Duloxetine hydrochloride, Dutasteride, Dutasteride/tamsulosin; Ecogramostim, Eculizumab, Eltrombopag olamine, EndoTAG-1, Erlotinib hydrochloride, Everolimus, Exenatide, Ezetimibe; FAHF-2, Fondaparinux sodium; Gefitinib, Golimumab; HEV-239, HSV-TK; Imatinib mesylate, Indium 111 ((111)In) ibritumomab tiuxetan, Influenza vaccine(surface antigen, inactivated, prepared in cell culture), Insulin glargine; Kisspeptin-54; Lidocaine/prilocaine, Lomitapide; Maraviroc, Mirodenafil hydrochloride, MK-8141, MVA-Ag85A; Nilotinib hydrochloride monohydrate; Olmesartan medoxomil; Paclitaxel-eluting stent, Pegfilgrastim, Peginterferon alfa-2a, Peginterferon alfa-2b, Pemetrexed disodium, Pitavastatin calcium, Prasugrel; Recombinant human relaxin H2, RHAMM R3 peptide, Rivaroxaban, Rosuvastatin calcium, RRz2; Sagopilone, Salinosporamide A, SB-509, Serlopitant, Sirolimus-eluting stent, Sorafenib, Sunitinib malate; Tadalafil, Temsirolimus, Teriparatide, TG-4010, Tositumomab/iodine (I131) tositumomab; Velusetrag Hydrochloride; Ximelagatran; Yttrium 90 (90Y) ibritumomab tiuxetan. Copyright 2009 Prous Science, S.A.U. or its licensors. All rights reserved.

  19. Evaluating Drug-Induced Liver Injury and Its Remission via Discrimination and Imaging of HClO and H2S with a Two-Photon Fluorescent Probe.

    PubMed

    Jiao, Xiaoyun; Xiao, Yongsheng; Li, Yong; Liang, Muwen; Xie, Xilei; Wang, Xu; Tang, Bo

    2018-06-19

    Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) has aroused wide concern. Finding new markers or indicators as well as detoxification molecules for DILI is of great significance and good application prospect, which can help develop effective preclinical screening methodology and corresponding treatment protocols. Herein, in this article, DILI caused by antidepressant drugs of duloxetine and fluoxetine and its remission were evaluated by a two-photon fluorescent probe, RPC-1, through discriminating and imaging HClO and H 2 S simultaneously. By being applied both in vitro and in vivo, RPC-1 revealed slight up-regulation of HClO and negligible liver damage after administration of either of the two drugs. In contrast, an apparent up-regulation of HClO and obvious liver damage was observed after combined administration of the drugs. Meanwhile, the pretreatment of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) resulted in the increasing of endogenous H 2 S level, which contributed to the remission of DILI. The histological analysis and serological test both gave good consistency with the imaging results. These findings demonstrate that HClO may be an appropriate indicator of DILI, and H 2 S plays an important role in the antidotal effect of NAC. We envision that RPC-1 can be used as a powerful tool to predict clinical DILI and study the effect of antidote, as well as explore the molecular mechanisms involved.

  20. Pharmacological modulation of pulvinar resting-state regional oscillations and network dynamics in major depression

    PubMed Central

    Tadayonnejad, Reza; Ajilore, Olusola; Mickey, Brian J.; Crane, Natania A.; Hsu, David T.; Kumar, Anand; Zubieta, Jon-Kar; Langenecker, Scott A.

    2016-01-01

    The pulvinar, the largest thalamus nucleus, has rich anatomical connections with several different cortical and subcortical regions suggesting its important involvement in high-level cognitive and emotional functions. Unfortunately, pulvinar dysfunction in psychiatric disorders particularly major depression disorder has not been thoroughly examined to date. In this study we explored the alterations in the baseline regional and network activities of the pulvinar in MDD by applying spectral analysis of resting-state oscillatory activity, functional connectivity and directed (effective) connectivity on resting-state fMRI data acquired from 20 healthy controls and 19 participants with MDD. Furthermore, we tested how pharmacological treatment with duloxetine can modulate the measured local and network variables in ten participants who completed treatment. Our results revealed a frequency-band dependent modulation of power spectrum characteristics of pulvinar regional oscillatory activity. At the network level, we found MDD is associated with aberrant causal interactions between pulvinar and several systems including default-mode and posterior insular networks. It was also shown that duloxetine treatment can correct or overcompensate the pathologic network behavior of the pulvinar. In conclusion, we suggest that pulvinar regional baseline oscillatory activity and its resting-state network dynamics are compromised in MDD and can be modulated therapeutically by pharmacological treatment. PMID:27148894

  1. Improving Symptom Control, QOL, and Quality of Care for Women with Breast Cancer: Developing a Research Program on Neurological Effects via Doctoral Education

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-06-01

    phenomenological study . Nursing Research , 41, 166-170. Beck, C. (1993). Teetering on the edge: A substantive theory ... grounded theory : Strategies for qualitative research . Chicago: Aldine. Goldstein, D., Lu, Y., Detke, M., Lee, T., & Iyengar, S. (2005). Duloxetine vs...Sandelowski, M. (2000a). Combining qualitative and quantitative sampling, data collection, and analysis techniques in mixed- method studies . Research

  2. Escitalopram versus other antidepressive agents for depression.

    PubMed

    Cipriani, Andrea; Santilli, Claudio; Furukawa, Toshi A; Signoretti, Alessandra; Nakagawa, Atsuo; McGuire, Hugh; Churchill, Rachel; Barbui, Corrado

    2009-04-15

    Although pharmacological and psychological interventions are both effective for major depression, antidepressant drugs remain the mainstay of treatment in primary and secondary care settings. During the last 20 years, antidepressant prescribing has risen dramatically in western countries, mainly because of the increasing consumption of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and newer antidepressants, which have progressively become the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic citalopram. To assess the evidence for the efficacy, acceptability and tolerability of escitalopram in comparison with tricyclics, other SSRIs, heterocyclics and newer agents in the acute-phase treatment of major depression. Electronic databases were searched up to July 2008. Trial databases of drug-approving agencies were hand-searched for published, unpublished and ongoing controlled trials. All randomised controlled trials comparing escitalopram against any other antidepressant (including non-conventional agents such as hypericum) for patients with major depressive disorder (regardless of the diagnostic criteria used). Data were entered by two review authors (double data entry). Responders and remitters to treatment were calculated on an intention-to-treat basis. For dichotomous data, odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Continuous data were analysed using standardised mean differences (with 95% CI) using the random effects model. Fourteen trials compared escitalopram with another SSRI and eight compared escitalopram with a newer antidepressive agent (venlafaxine, bupropion and duloxetine). Escitalopram was shown to be significantly more effective than citalopram in achieving acute response (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.87). Escitalopram was also more effective than citalopram in terms of remission (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.93). Significantly fewer patients allocated to escitalopram withdrew from trials compared with patients allocated to duloxetine, for discontinuation due to any cause (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.99). Some statistically significant differences favouring escitalopram over other antidepressive agents for the acute phase treatment of major depression were found, in terms of efficacy (citalopram and fluoxetine) and acceptability (duloxetine). There is insufficient evidence to detect a difference between escitalopram and other antidepressants in early response to treatment (after two weeks of treatment). Cost-effectiveness information is also needed in the field of antidepressant trials. Furthermore, as with most standard systematic reviews, the findings rely on evidence from direct comparisons. The potential for overestimation of treatment effect due to sponsorship bias should also be borne in mind.

  3. Antidepressants Normalize the Default Mode Network in Patients With Dysthymia

    PubMed Central

    Posner, Jonathan; Hellerstein, David J.; Gat, Inbal; Mechling, Anna; Klahr, Kristin; Wang, Zhishun; McGrath, Patrick J.; Stewart, Jonathan W.; Peterson, Bradley S.

    2014-01-01

    Importance The default mode network (DMN) is a collection of brain regions that reliably deactivate during goal-directed behaviors and is more active during a baseline, or so-called resting, condition. Coherence of neural activity, or functional connectivity, within the brain’s DMN is increased in major depressive disorder relative to healthy control (HC) subjects; however, whether similar abnormalities are present in persons with dysthymic disorder (DD) is unknown. Moreover, the effect of antidepressant medications on DMN connectivity in patients with DD is also unknown. Objective To use resting-state functional-connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study (1) the functional connectivity of the DMN in subjects with DD vs HC participants and (2) the effects of antidepressant therapy on DMN connectivity. Design After collecting baseline MRI scans from subjects with DD and HC participants, we enrolled the participants with DD into a 10-week prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of duloxetine and collected MRI scans again at the conclusion of the study. Enrollment occurred between 2007 and 2011. Setting University research institute. Participants Volunteer sample of 41 subjects with DD and 25 HC participants aged 18 to 53 years. Control subjects were group matched to patients with DD by age and sex. Main Outcome Measures We used resting-state functional-connectivity MRI to measure the functional connectivity of the brain’s DMN in persons with DD compared with HC subjects, and we examined the effects of treatment with duloxetine vs placebo on DMN connectivity. Results Of the 41 subjects with DD, 32 completed the clinical trial and MRI scans, along with the 25 HC participants. At baseline, we found that the coherence of neural activity within the brain’s DMN was greater in persons with DD compared with HC subjects. Following a 10-week clinical trial, we found that treatment with duloxetine, but not placebo, normalized DMN connectivity. Conclusions and Relevance The baseline imaging findings are consistent with those found in patients with major depressive disorder and suggest that increased connectivity within the DMN may be important in the pathophysiology of both acute and chronic manifestations of depressive illness. The normalization of DMN connectivity following antidepressant treatment suggests an important causal pathway through which antidepressants may reduce depression. PMID:23389382

  4. Treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Petropoulos, Ioannis N.; Alam, Uazman; Malik, Rayaz A.

    2015-01-01

    Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is a debilitating consequence of diabetes that may be present in as many as one in five patients with diabetes. The objective assessment of PDN is difficult, making it challenging to diagnose and assess in both clinical practice and clinical trials. No single treatment exists to prevent or reverse neuropathic changes or to provide total pain relief. Treatment of PDN is based on three major approaches: intensive glycaemic control and risk factor management, treatments based on pathogenetic mechanisms, and symptomatic pain management. Clinical guidelines recommend pain relief in PDN through the use of antidepressants such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, the γ-aminobutyric acid analogues gabapentin and pregabalin, opioids and topical agents such as capsaicin. Of these medications, duloxetine and pregabalin were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004 and tapentadol extended release was approved in 2012 for the treatment of PDN. Proposed pathogenetic treatments include α-lipoic acid (stems reactive oxygen species formation), benfotiamine (prevents vascular damage in diabetes) and aldose-reductase inhibitors (reduces flux through the polyol pathway). There is a growing need for studies to evaluate the most potent drugs or combinations for the management of PDN to maximize pain relief and improve quality of life. A number of agents are potential candidates for future use in PDN therapy, including Nav 1.7 antagonists, N-type calcium channel blockers, NGF antibodies and angiotensin II type 2 receptor antagonists. PMID:25553239

  5. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors and breastfeeding: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Orsolini, Laura; Bellantuono, Cesario

    2015-01-01

    The postnatal period represents a critical phase for mothers because of physiological hormonal changes, the increase of emotional reactions and a greater susceptibility for the onset/recrudescence of psychiatric disorders. Despite the evidence of an increasing utilization of antidepressant drugs during breastfeeding, there is still few reliable information on the neonatal safety of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) [serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs)] in nursing mothers. The aim of this study is to provide a systematic review on the neonatal safety profile of these drugs during breastfeeding, also assessing the limits of available tools. MEDLINE and PubMed databases were searched without any language restrictions by using the following set of keywords: ((SSRIs OR selective serotonin inhibitor reuptake OR SNRIs OR selective serotonin noradrenaline inhibitor reuptake) AND (breastfeeding OR lactation OR breast milk)). A separate search was also performed for each SSRIs (paroxetine, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram and escitalopram) and SNRIs (venlafaxine and duloxetine). Sertraline and paroxetine show a better neonatal safety profile during breastfeeding as compared with other SRIs. Less data are available for fluvoxamine, escitalopram and duloxetine. Few studies followed up infants breastfeed for assessing the neurodevelopmental outcomes. Literature review clearly indicates paroxetine and sertraline as the drugs that should be preferred as first line choice in nursing women who need an antidepressant treatment. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  6. A review of the clinical utility of duloxetine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain

    PubMed Central

    King, Jordan B; Schauerhamer, Marisa B; Bellows, Brandon K

    2015-01-01

    Diabetes mellitus is a world-wide epidemic with many long-term complications, with neuropathy being the most common. In particular, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), can be one of the most distressing complications associated with diabetes, leading to decreases in physical and mental quality of life. Despite the availability of many efficient medications, DPNP remains a challenge to treat, and the optimal sequencing of pharmacotherapy remains unknown. Currently, there are only three medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically for the management of DPNP. Duloxetine (DUL), a selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is one of these. With the goal of optimizing pharmacotherapy use in DPNP population, a review of current literature was conducted, and the clinical utility of DUL described. Along with early clinical trials, recently published observational studies and pharmacoeconomic models may be useful in guiding decision making by clinicians and managed care organizations. In real-world practice settings, DUL is associated with decreased or similar opioid utilization, increased medication adherence, and similar health care costs compared with current standard of care. DUL has consistently been found to be a cost-effective option over short time-horizons. Currently, the long-term cost-effectiveness of DUL is unknown. Evidence derived from randomized clinical trials, real-world observations, and economic models support the use of DUL as a first-line treatment option from the perspective of the patient, clinician, and managed care payer. PMID:26309404

  7. A review of the clinical utility of duloxetine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    King, Jordan B; Schauerhamer, Marisa B; Bellows, Brandon K

    2015-01-01

    Diabetes mellitus is a world-wide epidemic with many long-term complications, with neuropathy being the most common. In particular, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), can be one of the most distressing complications associated with diabetes, leading to decreases in physical and mental quality of life. Despite the availability of many efficient medications, DPNP remains a challenge to treat, and the optimal sequencing of pharmacotherapy remains unknown. Currently, there are only three medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically for the management of DPNP. Duloxetine (DUL), a selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is one of these. With the goal of optimizing pharmacotherapy use in DPNP population, a review of current literature was conducted, and the clinical utility of DUL described. Along with early clinical trials, recently published observational studies and pharmacoeconomic models may be useful in guiding decision making by clinicians and managed care organizations. In real-world practice settings, DUL is associated with decreased or similar opioid utilization, increased medication adherence, and similar health care costs compared with current standard of care. DUL has consistently been found to be a cost-effective option over short time-horizons. Currently, the long-term cost-effectiveness of DUL is unknown. Evidence derived from randomized clinical trials, real-world observations, and economic models support the use of DUL as a first-line treatment option from the perspective of the patient, clinician, and managed care payer.

  8. Monitoring of adherence to headache treatments by means of hair analysis.

    PubMed

    Ferrari, Anna; Licata, Manuela; Rustichelli, Cecilia; Baraldi, Carlo; Vandelli, Daniele; Marchesi, Filippo; Palazzoli, Federica; Verri, Patrizia; Silingardi, Enrico

    2017-02-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of hair analysis to monitor medication adherence in headache patients undergoing chronic therapy. For this purpose, the following parameters were analyzed: the detection rate of 23 therapeutic drugs in headache patients' hair, the degree of agreement between the self-reported drug and the drug found in hair, and whether the levels found in hair reflected the drug intake reported by the patients. The study included 93 patients suffering from primary headaches declaring their daily intake of at least one of the following drugs during the 3 months before the hair sampling: alprazolam, amitriptyline, citalopram, clomipramine, clonazepam, delorazepam, diazepam, duloxetine, fluoxetine, flurazepam, levomepromazine, levosulpiride, lorazepam, lormetazepam, mirtazapine, paroxetine, quetiapine, sertraline, topiramate, trazodone, triazolam, venlafaxine, and zolpidem. A detailed pharmacological history and a sample of hair were collected for each patient. Hair samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry, using a previously developed method. All 23 drugs were detected in the examined hair samples. The agreement between the self-reported drug and the drug found in hair was excellent for most analytes (P < 0.001, Cohen's kappa); a statistically significant relationship (P < 0.05, linear regression analysis) between dose and hair level was found for amitriptyline, citalopram, delorazepam, duloxetine, lorazepam, and venlafaxine. Hair analysis proved to be a unique matrix to document chronic drug use in headache patients, and the level found for each individual drug can represent a reliable marker of adherence to pharmacological treatments.

  9. Escitalopram versus other antidepressive agents for depression

    PubMed Central

    Cipriani, Andrea; Santilli, Claudio; Furukawa, Toshi A; Signoretti, Alessandra; Nakagawa, Atsuo; McGuire, Hugh; Churchill, Rachel; Barbui, Corrado

    2014-01-01

    Background Although pharmacological and psychological interventions are both effective for major depression, antidepressant drugs remain the mainstay of treatment in primary and secondary care settings. During the last 20 years, antidepressant prescribing has risen dramatically in western countries, mainly because of the increasing consumption of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and newer antidepressants, which have progressively become the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer of the racemic citalopram. Objectives To assess the evidence for the efficacy, acceptability and tolerability of escitalopram in comparison with tricyclics, other SSRIs, heterocyclics and newer agents in the acute-phase treatment of major depression. Search methods Electronic databases were searched up to July 2008. Trial databases of drug-approving agencies were hand-searched for published, unpublished and ongoing controlled trials. Selection criteria All randomised controlled trials comparing escitalopram against any other antidepressant (including non-conventional agents such as hypericum) for patients with major depressive disorder (regardless of the diagnostic criteria used). Data collection and analysis Data were entered by two review authors (double data entry). Responders and remitters to treatment were calculated on an intention-to-treat basis. For dichotomous data, odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Continuous data were analysed using standardised mean differences (with 95% CI) using the random effects model. Main results Fourteen trials compared escitalopram with another SSRI and eight compared escitalopram with a newer antidepressive agent (venlafaxine, bupropion and duloxetine). Escitalopram was shown to be significantly more effective than citalopram in achieving acute response (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.87). Escitalopram was also more effective than citalopram in terms of remission (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.93). Significantly fewer patients allocated to escitalopram withdrew from trials compared with patients allocated to duloxetine, for discontinuation due to any cause (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.99). Authors’ conclusions Some statistically significant differences favouring escitalopram over other antidepressive agents for the acute phase treatment of major depression were found, in terms of efficacy (citalopram and fluoxetine) and acceptability (duloxetine). There is insufficient evidence to detect a difference between escitalopram and other antidepressants in early response to treatment (after two weeks of treatment). Cost-effectiveness information is also needed in the field of antidepressant trials. Furthermore, as with most standard systematic reviews, the findings rely on evidence from direct comparisons. The potential for overestimation of treatment effect due to sponsorship bias should also be borne in mind. PMID:19370639

  10. [Drug therapy of fibromyalgia syndrome. Systematic review, meta-analysis and guideline].

    PubMed

    Sommer, C; Häuser, W; Alten, R; Petzke, F; Späth, M; Tölle, T; Uçeyler, N; Winkelmann, A; Winter, E; Bär, K J

    2012-06-01

    The scheduled update to the German S3 guidelines on fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) by the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies ("Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften", AWMF; registration number 041/004) was planned starting in March 2011. The development of the guidelines was coordinated by the German Interdisciplinary Association for Pain Therapy ("Deutsche Interdisziplinären Vereinigung für Schmerztherapie", DIVS), 9 scientific medical societies and 2 patient self-help organizations. Eight working groups with a total of 50 members were evenly balanced in terms of gender, medical field, potential conflicts of interest and hierarchical position in the medical and scientific fields. Literature searches were performed using the Medline, PsycInfo, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases (until December 2010). The grading of the strength of the evidence followed the scheme of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. The recommendations were based on level of evidence, efficacy (meta-analysis of the outcomes pain, sleep, fatigue and health-related quality of life), acceptability (total dropout rate), risks (adverse events) and applicability of treatment modalities in the German health care system. The formulation and grading of recommendations was accomplished using a multi-step, formal consensus process. The guidelines were reviewed by the boards of the participating scientific medical societies. Amitriptyline and-in case of comorbid depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder-duloxetine are recommended. Off-label use of duloxetine and pregabalin can be considered in case of no comorbid mental disorder. Strong opioids are not recommended. The English full-text version of this article is available at SpringerLink (under "Supplemental").

  11. Cost-effectiveness analysis of pharmacologic treatment of fibromyalgia in Mexico.

    PubMed

    Arreola Ornelas, Héctor; Rosado Buzzo, Alfonso; García, Lourdes; Dorantes Aguilar, Javier; Contreras Hernández, Iris; Mould Quevedo, Joaquín F

    2012-01-01

    To identify, from the Mexican Public Health System perspective, which would be the most cost-effective treatment for patients with Fibromyalgia (FM). A Markov model including three health states, divided by pain intensity (absence or presence of mild, moderate or severe pain) and considering three-month cycles; costs and effectiveness were estimated for amitriptyline (50mg/day), fluoxetine (80 mg/day), duloxetine (120 mg/day), gabapentin (900 mg/day), pregabalin (450 mg/day), tramadol/acetaminophen (150 mg/1300 mg/día) and amitriptyline/fluoxetine (50mg/80 mg/día) for the treatment of FM. The clinical outcome considered was the annual rate of pain control. Probabilities assigned to the model were collected from published literature. Direct medical costs for FM treatment were retrieved from the 2006 data of the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) databases and were expressed in 2010 Mexican Pesos. Probabilistic Sensitivity Analyses were conducted. The best pain control rate was obtained with pregabalin (44.8%), followed by gabapentin (38.1%) and duloxetine (34.2%). The lowest treatment costs was for amitriptyline ($ 9047.01), followed by fluoxetine ($ 10,183.89) and amitriptyline/fluoxetine ($ 10,866.01). By comparing pregabalin vs amitriptyline, additional annual cost per patient for pain control would be around $ 50.000 and $ 75.000 and would result cost-effective in 70% and 80% of all cases. Among all treatment options for FM, pregabalin achieved the highest pain control and was cost-effective in 80% of patients of the Mexican Public Health System. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

  12. Longitudinal observation of treatment patterns and outcomes for patients with fibromyalgia: 12-month findings from the reflections study.

    PubMed

    Robinson, Rebecca L; Kroenke, Kurt; Williams, David A; Mease, Philip; Chen, Yi; Faries, Douglas; Peng, Xiaomei; Hann, Danette; Wohlreich, Madelaine; McCarberg, Bill

    2013-09-01

    To describe 12-month treatment patterns and outcomes for patients starting a new medication for fibromyalgia in routine clinical practice. Data from 1,700 patients were collected at baseline and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Repeated measures and Poisson regression models controlling for demographic, clinical, and baseline outcomes were used to assess changes in health outcomes (Brief Pain Inventory severity and interference, Sheehan Disability Scale, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire), satisfaction, and economic factors for patients who initiated on pregabalin (214, 12.6%), duloxetine (264, 15.5%), milnacipran (134, 7.9%), or tricyclic antidepressants (66, 3.9%). Sensitivity analyses were run using propensity-matched cohorts. Patients started on 145 unique drugs for fibromyalgia, and over 75% of patients took two or more medications concurrently for fibromyalgia at each time point assessed. Overall, patients showed improvement on the four health outcomes, with few differences across medication cohorts. At baseline, patients reported annual averages of 20.3 visits for outpatient care, 27.7 missed days of work, and 32.6 days of care by an unpaid caregiver. The duloxetine and milnacipran (vs pregabalin or tricyclic antidepressant) cohorts had fewer outpatient visits during the 12-month study. Patients reported satisfaction with overall treatment and their fibromyalgia medication (46.0% and 42.8%, respectively). In this real-world setting, patients with fibromyalgia reported modest improvements, high resource, and medication use, and were satisfied with the care they received. Cohort differences were difficult to discern because of the high rates of drug discontinuation and concomitant medication use over the 12-month study period. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  13. Case report: efficacy and tolerability of ketamine in opioid-refractory cancer pain.

    PubMed

    Amin, Priya; Roeland, Eric; Atayee, Rabia

    2014-09-01

    A 36-year-old female with metastatic breast cancer involving bones, liver, lung, and pleura/chest wall with worsening back pain received weight-based intravenous (IV) ketamine and was transitioned to oral ketamine for cancer-related neuropathic pain. She had responded poorly to outpatient pain regimen of oxycodone sustained and immediate release, hydromorphone, gabapentin, and duloxetine (approximate 480 mg total oral morphine equivalents [OME]), reporting an initial pain score of 10/10. She was started on hydromorphone parenteral patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus dose in addition to her outpatient regimen. Despite escalating doses of opioids and the addition of a lidocaine 5% patch, the patient's pain remained uncontrolled 6 days after admission. On hospital day 7, utilizing a hospital weight-based ketamine protocol, the patient was started on subanesthetic doses of ketamine at 0.2 mg/kg/h (288 mg/24 h) and titrated over 2 days to 0.4 mg/kg/h (576 mg/24 h). Then, a 3-day rotation from intravenous to oral ketamine was initiated, and the patient was discharged on ketamine oral solution, 75 mg every 8 hours. When the patient's dose was increased to 0.4 mg/kg/h, adequate pain relief was charted by the nurse within 120 minutes, "patient pain free and resting comfortably." Her pain continued to be well managed, with an average pain score of 5/10 with the ketamine continuous infusion and sustained with conversion to oral ketamine without any report of side effects. This was a 37% reduction in pain scores. With the patient's stabilized dose of ketamine, opioid requirements decreased by 61.4% (1017.5 mg reduction in total OME). The use of weight-based dosing of IV continuous infusion and transition to oral ketamine was effective and tolerable in the management of opioid-refractory, neuropathic cancer pain. It is hoped that this case report promotes a discussion regarding ketamine dosing in refractory neuropathic cancer pain.

  14. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers effects on histone deacetylase expression in C57BL/6 mice: Brain region specific changes.

    PubMed

    Ookubo, Masanori; Kanai, Hirohiko; Aoki, Harusuke; Yamada, Naoto

    2013-09-01

    To determine whether treatment with various antidepressants or mood stabilizers leads to region-specific changes, we investigated the effects of their subchronic (14 days of intraperitoneal injection) administration on the tissue concentration of monoamines, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, and the protein expression of acetylated histone H3 (AcH3) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in the mouse striatum (ST), nucleus accumbens (Acb), hippocampus (Hip), cingulate cortex (Cg), and amygdala (Amy). Subchronic administration with the antidepressants (S)-citalopram oxalate (ECM), duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX), and mirtazapine (MIR) commonly induced significant increases in dopamine and serotonin levels in the ST and Cg. By contrast, no common profiles for dopamine, serotonin, or norepinephrine were identified in the Acb, Hip, or Amy. Treatment with sodium valproate (VPA), lithium chloride (Li), lamotrigine (LTG), levetiracetam (LTM), olanzapine (OLZ), clozapine (CLZ), clomipramine (CLM), ECM, and DLX induced significant increases in AcH3 expression in the Acb, while treatment with CLM, ECM, DLX, MIR, carbamazepine (CBZ), LTG, LTM, OLZ, or CLZ induced significant increases in HDAC2 and HDAC3 in the ST. CLM, MIR, VPA, CBZ, LTG, LTM, OLZ, or CLZ induced significant increases in HDAC3 in the Cg, and ECM, DLX, MIR, VPA, CBZ, LTG, LTM, or OLZ resulted in significant increases in HDAC5 in the Amy. Collectively, the changes of monoamine content were restricted for mood stabilizer effects, but increased expression of HDAC2, HDAC3, or HDAC5 in the ST, Cg, or Amy was often found, supporting the possibility that antidepressant-like effects involve epigenetic modifications associated with changes in HDAC expression. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Selective Serotonergic (SSRI) Versus Noradrenergic (SNRI) Reuptake Inhibitors with and without Acetylsalicylic Acid in Major Depressive Disorder.

    PubMed

    Zdanowicz, Nicolas; Reynaert, Christine; Jacques, Denis; Lepiece, Brice; Dubois, Thomas

    2017-09-01

    Antidepressant medication efficacy remains a major research challenge. Here, we explored four questions: whether noradrenergic antidepressants are more effective than serotonergic antidepressants; whether the addition of 100 mg acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) changes antidepressant efficacy; whether the long-term efficacy differs depending on the antidepressant and the addition of ASA; and whether serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are clinically informative. In a two-year study, forty people with major depressive disorder were randomly assigned to groups that received an SSRI (escitalopram) or an SNRI (duloxetine), each group received concomitant ASA (100 mg) or a placebo. Sociodemographic data were recorded and patients under went regular assessments with the Hamilton depression scale (HDS) and clinical global impression (CGI) scale. Serum levels of BDNF were measured four times per year. There was no significant difference in efficacy between the two antidepressants or between antidepressant treatment with and without ASA. However, subgroup comparisons revealed that the duloxetine + ASA (DASA) subgroup showed a more rapid improvement in HDS score as early as 2 months (t=-3.114, p=0.01), in CGI score at 5 months (t=-2.119, p=0.05), and a better remission rate (χ 2 =6.296, p 0.012) than the escitalopram + placebo (EP) subgroup. Serum BDNF before treatment was also higher in the DASA subgroup than in the EP subgroup (t=3.713; p=0.002). This suggest two hypotheses: either a noradrenergic agent combined with ASA is more effective in treating depression than a serotonergic agent alone, or the level of serum BDNF before treatment is a precursor marker of the response to antidepressants. Further research is needed to test these hypotheses.

  16. [Economic evaluation of desvenlafaxine in the treatment of major depressive disorder in Spain].

    PubMed

    Rejas Gutiérrez, Javier; Blanca Tamayo, Milagrosa; Gascón Barrachina, Josep; Armada Peláez, Beatriz

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the clinical and economic value of the use of 50mg-desvenlafaxine compared to the usual care (mix of duloxetine and venlafaxine) in the outpatient treatment of major depressive disorder after first line treatment failure (relapse) in Spain. A Markov model was used to follow up a cohort of major depressive disorder patients for one year after failure of first-line treatment with a serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitor and estimate outcome measures (percentage remission and depression-free days) and accrued and direct costs incurred during outpatient treatment of major depressive disorder. In order to obtain the efficacy data related to the treatment alternatives, a literature review of clinical trials was performed. A panel of clinical experts validated the use of clinical resources employed in the estimation of economic outcomes together with model assumptions. The analysis was performed in 2014 from the perspective of the National Health System. Due to fewer discontinuations, initiating second line treatment with desvenlafaxine was associated with more depression-free days and a higher percentage of patients in remission versus usual care: 1.7 days and 0.5%, respectively. This was translated into lower drug and events management costs, and an overall cost reduction of €108 for the National Health System. In patients who have not responded to a first-line serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitor therapy, desvenlafaxine-50mg was clinically similar in effectiveness, but a less costly option, compared with a weighted average of duloxetine and venlafaxine for the second-line treatment of major depressive disorder patients from a payer (National Health System) perspective in Spain. Copyright © 2015 SEP y SEPB. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

  17. The clinical importance of changes in the 0 to 10 numeric rating scale for worst, least, and average pain intensity: analyses of data from clinical trials of duloxetine in pain disorders.

    PubMed

    Farrar, John T; Pritchett, Yili L; Robinson, Michael; Prakash, Apurva; Chappell, Amy

    2010-02-01

    Data on 1,700 patients pooled from 5 randomized, placebo-controlled duloxetine studies (3 in diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain and 2 in fibromyalgia) were analyzed to determine clinically important differences (CIDs) in the 0 to 10 Numeric Rating Scale-Pain Intensity (NRS-PI) for patient-reported "worst" and "least" pain intensity while validating the previously published level for "average" pain. The correspondence between the baseline-to-endpoint raw and percentage change in the NRS-PI for the worst, least, and average pain were compared to patients' perceived improvements at endpoint as measured by the 7-point Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scales. Stratification by baseline pain separated the raw but not the percent change scores. The PGI-I category of "much better" or above was our a priori definition of a CID. Cutoff points for the NRS-PI change scores were determined using a receiver operator curve analysis. A consistent relationship between the worst and average NRS-PI percent change and the PGI-I was demonstrated regardless of the study, pain type, age, sex, or treatment group with a reduction of approximately 34%. The least pain item CID was slightly higher at 41%. Raw change CID cutoff points were approximately -2, -2.5 and -3 for least, average, and worst pain respectively. We determined an anchor-based value for the change in the worst, least, and average pain intensity items of the Brief Pain Inventory that best represents a clinically important difference. Our findings support a standard definition of a clinically important difference in clinical trials of chronic-pain therapies. Copyright 2010 American Pain Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Impact of patient selection and study characteristics on signal detection in placebo-controlled trials with antidepressants.

    PubMed

    Mancini, Michele; Wade, Alan G; Perugi, Giulio; Lenox-Smith, Alan; Schacht, Alexander

    2014-04-01

    An increasing rate of antidepressant trials fail due to large placebo responses. This analysis aimed to identify variables influencing signal detection in clinical trials of major depressive disorder. Patient-level data of randomized patients with a duloxetine dose ≥ 60 mg/day were obtained from Lilly. Total scores of the Hamilton Depression Rating scale (HAM-D) were used as efficacy endpoints. In total, 4661 patients from 14 studies were included in the analysis. The overall effect size (ES), based on the HAM-D total score at endpoint, between duloxetine and placebo was -0.272. Although no statistically significant interactions were found, the following results for factors influencing ES were seen: a very low ES (-0.157) in patients in the lowest baseline HAM-D category and in patients recruited in the last category of the recruitment period (-0.122). A higher ES in patients recruited in centers with a site-size at but not more than 2.5 times the average site-size for the study (-0.345). Study characteristics that resulted in low signal detection in our database were: <80% study completers, a HAM-D placebo response >5 points, a high variability of placebo response (SD > 7 points HAM-D), >6 post baseline visits per study, and use of an active control drug. Simpler trial designs, more homogeneous and mid-sized study sites, a primary analysis based on a higher cutoff blinded to investigators to avoid the influence of score inflation in mild patients and, if possible, studies without an active control group could lead to a better signal detection of antidepressive efficacy. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  19. Long-term cost-effectiveness of initiating treatment for painful diabetic neuropathy with pregabalin, duloxetine, gabapentin, or desipramine.

    PubMed

    Bellows, Brandon K; Nelson, Richard E; Oderda, Gary M; LaFleur, Joanne

    2016-01-01

    Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) affects nearly half of patients with diabetes. The objective of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of starting patients with PDN on pregabalin (PRE), duloxetine (DUL), gabapentin (GABA), or desipramine (DES) over a 10-year time horizon from the perspective of third-party payers in the United States. A Markov model was used to compare the costs (2013 $US) and effectiveness (quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs]) of first-line PDN treatments in 10,000 patients using microsimulation. Costs and QALYs were discounted at 3% annually. Probabilities and utilities were derived from the published literature. Costs were average wholesale price for drugs and national estimates for office visits and hospitalizations. One-way and probabilistic (PSA) sensitivity analyses were used to examine parameter uncertainty. Starting with PRE was dominated by DUL as DUL cost less and was more effective. Starting with GABA was extendedly dominated by a combination of DES and DUL. DES and DUL cost $23,468 and $25,979, while yielding 3.05 and 3.16 QALYs, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for DUL compared with DES was $22,867/QALY gained. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that the model was most sensitive to the adherence threshold and utility for mild pain. PSA showed that, at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) of $50,000/QALY, DUL was the most cost-effective option in 56.3% of the simulations, DES in 29.2%, GABA in 14.4%, and PRE in 0.1%. Starting with DUL is the most cost-effective option for PDN when WTP is greater than $22,867/QALY. Decision makers may consider starting with DUL for PDN patients.

  20. What makes patients with fibromyalgia feel better? Correlations between Patient Global Impression of Improvement and changes in clinical symptoms and function: a pooled analysis of 4 randomized placebo-controlled trials of duloxetine.

    PubMed

    Hudson, James I; Arnold, Lesley M; Bradley, Laurence A; Choy, Ernest H S; Mease, Philip J; Wang, Fujun; Ahl, Jonna; Wohlreich, Madelaine M

    2009-11-01

    To investigate the relationship between changes in clinical rating scale items and endpoint Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I). Data were pooled from 4 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of duloxetine in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Variables included in the analyses were those that assessed symptoms in FM domains of pain, fatigue, sleep, cognitive difficulties, emotional well-being, physical function, and impact on daily living. The association of endpoint PGI-I with changes from baseline in individual variables was assessed using Pearson product-moment correlations (r). Stepwise linear regression was used to identify those variables for which changes from baseline were statistically significant independent predictors of the endpoint PGI-I ratings. Changes in pain variables and interference of symptoms with the ability to work were highly correlated (r >or= 0.5 or r

  1. A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Active-Reference, Double-Blind, Flexible-Dose Study of the Efficacy of Vortioxetine on Cognitive Function in Major Depressive Disorder

    PubMed Central

    Mahableshwarkar, Atul R; Zajecka, John; Jacobson, William; Chen, Yinzhong; Keefe, Richard SE

    2015-01-01

    This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, active-referenced (duloxetine 60 mg), parallel-group study evaluated the short-term efficacy and safety of vortioxetine (10–20 mg) on cognitive function in adults (aged 18–65 years) diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) who self-reported cognitive dysfunction. Efficacy was evaluated using ANCOVA for the change from baseline to week 8 in the digit symbol substitution test (DSST)–number of correct symbols as the prespecified primary end point. The patient-reported perceived deficits questionnaire (PDQ) and physician-assessed clinical global impression (CGI) were analyzed in a prespecified hierarchical testing sequence as key secondary end points. Additional predefined end points included the objective performance-based University of San Diego performance-based skills assessment (UPSA) (ANCOVA) to measure functionality, MADRS (MMRM) to assess efficacy in depression, and a prespecified multiple regression analysis (path analysis) to calculate direct vs indirect effects of vortioxetine on cognitive function. Safety and tolerability were assessed at all visits. Vortioxetine was statistically superior to placebo on the DSST (P<0.05), PDQ (P<0.01), CGI-I (P<0.001), MADRS (P<0.05), and UPSA (P<0.001). Path analysis indicated that vortioxetine's cognitive benefit was primarily a direct treatment effect rather than due to alleviation of depressive symptoms. Duloxetine was not significantly different from placebo on the DSST or UPSA, but was superior to placebo on the PDQ, CGI-I, and MADRS. Common adverse events (incidence ⩾5%) for vortioxetine were nausea, headache, and diarrhea. In this study of MDD adults who self-reported cognitive dysfunction, vortioxetine significantly improved cognitive function, depression, and functionality and was generally well tolerated. PMID:25687662

  2. Comparative efficacy and tolerability of antidepressants for major depressive disorder in children and adolescents: a network meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Cipriani, Andrea; Zhou, Xinyu; Del Giovane, Cinzia; Hetrick, Sarah E; Qin, Bin; Whittington, Craig; Coghill, David; Zhang, Yuqing; Hazell, Philip; Leucht, Stefan; Cuijpers, Pim; Pu, Juncai; Cohen, David; Ravindran, Arun V; Liu, Yiyun; Michael, Kurt D; Yang, Lining; Liu, Lanxiang; Xie, Peng

    2016-08-27

    Major depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders in children and adolescents. However, whether to use pharmacological interventions in this population and which drug should be preferred are still matters of controversy. Consequently, we aimed to compare and rank antidepressants and placebo for major depressive disorder in young people. We did a network meta-analysis to identify both direct and indirect evidence from relevant trials. We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, LiLACS, regulatory agencies' websites, and international registers for published and unpublished, double-blind randomised controlled trials up to May 31, 2015, for the acute treatment of major depressive disorder in children and adolescents. We included trials of amitriptyline, citalopram, clomipramine, desipramine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, imipramine, mirtazapine, nefazodone, nortriptyline, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine. Trials recruiting participants with treatment-resistant depression, treatment duration of less than 4 weeks, or an overall sample size of less than ten patients were excluded. We extracted the relevant information from the published reports with a predefined data extraction sheet, and assessed the risk of bias with the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The primary outcomes were efficacy (change in depressive symptoms) and tolerability (discontinuations due to adverse events). We did pair-wise meta-analyses using the random-effects model and then did a random-effects network meta-analysis within a Bayesian framework. We assessed the quality of evidence contributing to each network estimate using the GRADE framework. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42015016023. We deemed 34 trials eligible, including 5260 participants and 14 antidepressant treatments. The quality of evidence was rated as very low in most comparisons. For efficacy, only fluoxetine was statistically significantly more effective than placebo (standardised mean difference -0·51, 95% credible interval [CrI] -0·99 to -0·03). In terms of tolerability, fluoxetine was also better than duloxetine (odds ratio [OR] 0·31, 95% CrI 0·13 to 0·95) and imipramine (0·23, 0·04 to 0·78). Patients given imipramine, venlafaxine, and duloxetine had more discontinuations due to adverse events than did those given placebo (5·49, 1·96 to 20·86; 3·19, 1·01 to 18·70; and 2·80, 1·20 to 9·42, respectively). In terms of heterogeneity, the global I(2) values were 33·21% for efficacy and 0% for tolerability. When considering the risk-benefit profile of antidepressants in the acute treatment of major depressive disorder, these drugs do not seem to offer a clear advantage for children and adolescents. Fluoxetine is probably the best option to consider when a pharmacological treatment is indicated. National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Pharmacokinetic profiles contribute to the differences in behavioral pharmacology of 071031B enantiomers as novel serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Xue, Rui; Li, Ying; He, Xin-Hua; Jin, Zeng-Liang; Fan, Shi-Yong; Zhang, Ting-Ting; Li, Nuo-Min; Yuan, Li; Zheng, Ai-Ping; Zhong, Bo-Hua; Li, Yun-Feng; Zhang, You-Zhi

    2017-03-01

    Our previous study indicated that a chiral compound 071031B was a novel serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor with superior antidepressant activity compared to duloxetine. The present study aimed to investigate chiral pharmacology differences of 071031B enantiomers, S-071031B and R-071031B, and disclose mechanisms underlying the behavioral differences based on target profiles and pharmacokinetic profiles. In vivo behavioral tests indicated that S-071031B was more potent than R-071031B in two depression models (the forced swimming test in mice and rats) and two pain models (the acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin tests in mice). In vitro assays revealed that both S-071031B and R-071031B showed high affinity for human serotonin transporters and norepinephrine transporters with equal potency, and showed consistently equipotent inhibitory effects on serotonin and norepinephrine uptake. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that oral availability and hepatic metabolism, rather than pH stability, intestinal transport, and plasma binding, contributed to enantiomers' behavioral differences. Based on these findings, it is suggested that S-071031B is a more active enantiomer, and the differential pharmacokinetic profiles, but not target affinity, contribute to differences of S-071031B and R-071031B in behavioral pharmacology. Moreover, current PK-PD study may provide positive exploration for chiral antidepressants development.

  4. The refined biomimetic NeuroDigm GEL™ model of neuropathic pain in a mature rat

    PubMed Central

    Hannaman, Mary R.; Fitts, Douglas A.; Doss, Rose M.; Weinstein, David E.; Bryant, Joseph L.

    2017-01-01

    Background: Many humans suffering with chronic neuropathic pain have no objective evidence of an etiological lesion or disease. Frequently their persistent pain occurs after the healing of a soft tissue injury. Based on clinical observations over time, our hypothesis was that after an injury in mammals the process of tissue repair could cause chronic neural pain. Our objectives were to create the delayed onset of neuropathic pain in rats with minimal nerve trauma using a physiologic hydrogel, and characterize the rats’ responses to known analgesics and a targeted biologic. Methods: In mature male Sprague Dawley rats (age 9.5 months) a percutaneous implant of tissue-derived hydrogel was placed in the musculofascial tunnel of the distal tibial nerve. Subcutaneous morphine (3 mg/kg), celecoxib (10 mg/kg), gabapentin (25 mg/kg) and duloxetine (10 mg/kg) were each screened in the model three times each over 5 months after pain behaviors developed. Sham and control groups were used in all screenings. A pilot study followed in which recombinant human erythropoietin (200 units) was injected by the GEL™ neural procedure site. Results: The GEL group gradually developed mechanical hypersensitivity lasting months. Morphine, initially effective, had less analgesia over time. Celecoxib produced no analgesia, while gabapentin and duloxetine at low doses demonstrated profound analgesia at all times tested. The injected erythropoietin markedly decreased bilateral pain behavior that had been present for over 4 months, p ≤ 0.001. Histology of the GEL group tibial nerve revealed a site of focal neural remodeling, with neural regeneration, as found in nerve biopsies of patients with neuropathic pain. Conclusion: The refined NeuroDigm GEL™ model induces a neural response resulting in robust neuropathic pain behavior. The analgesic responses in this model reflect known responses of humans with neuropathic pain. The targeted recombinant human erythropoietin at the ectopic neural lesion appears to alleviate the persistent pain behavior in the GEL™ model rodents. PMID:28620451

  5. The safety and tolerability of vortioxetine: Analysis of data from randomized placebo-controlled trials and open-label extension studies

    PubMed Central

    Baldwin, David S; Chrones, Lambros; Florea, Ioana; Nielsen, Rebecca; Nomikos, George G; Palo, William; Reines, Elin

    2016-01-01

    The safety and tolerability of vortioxetine in adults with major depressive disorder was assessed. Tolerability was based on the nature, incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) during acute (6/8) week treatment in 11 randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled short-term studies in major depressive disorder: six with an active reference. Symptoms following discontinuation were assessed through the Discontinuation-Emergent Signs and Symptoms checklist in three studies. Long-term (⩽52 weeks) tolerability was evaluated in five open-label extension studies. Patients (n =5701) were acutely treated with either placebo (n=1817), vortioxetine (5–20mg/day; n=3018), venlafaxine XR (225mg/day; n=113) or duloxetine (60mg/day; n=753). The withdrawal rate due to TEAEs during treatment with vortioxetine (5–20mg/day) was 4.5–7.8%, compared with placebo (3.6%), venlafaxine XR (14.2%) or duloxetine (8.8%). Common TEAEs (incidence ⩾5% and >2 × placebo) with vortioxetine (5–20mg/day) were nausea (20.9–31.2%) and vomiting (2.9–6.5%). For vortioxetine (5–20mg/day), the incidence of TEAEs associated with insomnia was 2.0–5.1% versus 4.0% for placebo, and with sexual dysfunction 1.6–1.8% versus 1.0% for placebo. Discontinuation symptoms as assessed by the mean Discontinuation-Emergent Signs and Symptoms total score after abrupt discontinuation were comparable to placebo in the first and second week. Vortioxetine had no effect relative to placebo on clinical laboratory parameters, body weight, heart rate or blood pressure. Vortioxetine showed no clinically relevant effect on ECG parameters, including the QTcF interval. In long-term treatment, no new types of TEAEs were seen; the mean weight gain was 0.7–0.8kg. Thus, vortioxetine (5–20mg/day) appears safe and generally well tolerated in the treatment of major depressive disorder. PMID:26864543

  6. The safety and tolerability of vortioxetine: Analysis of data from randomized placebo-controlled trials and open-label extension studies.

    PubMed

    Baldwin, David S; Chrones, Lambros; Florea, Ioana; Nielsen, Rebecca; Nomikos, George G; Palo, William; Reines, Elin

    2016-03-01

    The safety and tolerability of vortioxetine in adults with major depressive disorder was assessed. Tolerability was based on the nature, incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) during acute (6/8) week treatment in 11 randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled short-term studies in major depressive disorder: six with an active reference. Symptoms following discontinuation were assessed through the Discontinuation-Emergent Signs and Symptoms checklist in three studies. Long-term (⩽52 weeks) tolerability was evaluated in five open-label extension studies. Patients (n =5701) were acutely treated with either placebo (n=1817), vortioxetine (5-20mg/day; n=3018), venlafaxine XR (225mg/day; n=113) or duloxetine (60mg/day; n=753). The withdrawal rate due to TEAEs during treatment with vortioxetine (5-20mg/day) was 4.5-7.8%, compared with placebo (3.6%), venlafaxine XR (14.2%) or duloxetine (8.8%). Common TEAEs (incidence ⩾5% and >2 × placebo) with vortioxetine (5-20mg/day) were nausea (20.9-31.2%) and vomiting (2.9-6.5%). For vortioxetine (5-20mg/day), the incidence of TEAEs associated with insomnia was 2.0-5.1% versus 4.0% for placebo, and with sexual dysfunction 1.6-1.8% versus 1.0% for placebo. Discontinuation symptoms as assessed by the mean Discontinuation-Emergent Signs and Symptoms total score after abrupt discontinuation were comparable to placebo in the first and second week. Vortioxetine had no effect relative to placebo on clinical laboratory parameters, body weight, heart rate or blood pressure. Vortioxetine showed no clinically relevant effect on ECG parameters, including the QTcF interval. In long-term treatment, no new types of TEAEs were seen; the mean weight gain was 0.7-0.8kg. Thus, vortioxetine (5-20mg/day) appears safe and generally well tolerated in the treatment of major depressive disorder. © The Author(s) 2016.

  7. Coding of adverse events of suicidality in clinical study reports of duloxetine for the treatment of major depressive disorder: descriptive study.

    PubMed

    Maund, Emma; Tendal, Britta; Hróbjartsson, Asbjørn; Lundh, Andreas; Gøtzsche, Peter C

    2014-06-04

    To assess the effects of coding and coding conventions on summaries and tabulations of adverse events data on suicidality within clinical study reports. Systematic electronic search for adverse events of suicidality in tables, narratives, and listings of adverse events in individual patients within clinical study reports. Where possible, for each event we extracted the original term reported by the investigator, the term as coded by the medical coding dictionary, medical coding dictionary used, and the patient's trial identification number. Using the patient's trial identification number, we attempted to reconcile data on the same event between the different formats for presenting data on adverse events within the clinical study report. 9 randomised placebo controlled trials of duloxetine for major depressive disorder submitted to the European Medicines Agency for marketing approval. Clinical study reports obtained from the EMA in 2011. Six trials used the medical coding dictionary COSTART (Coding Symbols for a Thesaurus of Adverse Reaction Terms) and three used MedDRA (Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities). Suicides were clearly identifiable in all formats of adverse event data in clinical study reports. Suicide attempts presented in tables included both definitive and provisional diagnoses. Suicidal ideation and preparatory behaviour were obscured in some tables owing to the lack of specificity of the medical coding dictionary, especially COSTART. Furthermore, we found one event of suicidal ideation described in narrative text that was absent from tables and adverse event listings of individual patients. The reason for this is unclear, but may be due to the coding conventions used. Data on adverse events in tables in clinical study reports may not accurately represent the underlying patient data because of the medical dictionaries and coding conventions used. In clinical study reports, the listings of adverse events for individual patients and narratives of adverse events can provide additional information, including original investigator reported adverse event terms, which can enable a more accurate estimate of harms. © Maund et al 2014.

  8. A Framework for Fibromyalgia Management for Primary Care Providers

    PubMed Central

    Arnold, Lesley M.; Clauw, Daniel J.; Dunegan, L. Jean; Turk, Dennis C.

    2012-01-01

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain disorder commonly associated with comorbid symptoms, including fatigue and nonrestorative sleep. As in the management of other chronic medical disorders, the approach for fibromyalgia management follows core principles of comprehensive assessment, education, goal setting, multimodal treatment including pharmacological (eg, pregabalin, duloxetine, milnacipran) and nonpharmacological therapies (eg, physical activity, behavioral therapy, sleep hygiene, education), and regular education and monitoring of treatment response and progress. Based on these core management principles, this review presents a framework for primary care providers through which they can develop a patient-centered treatment program for patients with fibromyalgia. This proactive and systematic treatment approach encourages ongoing education and patient self-management and is designed for use in the primary care setting. PMID:22560527

  9. Low Dose Naltrexone in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    Metyas, Samy K; Yeter, Karen; Solyman, John; Arkfeld, Daniel

    2017-03-21

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by diffuse musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance and cognitive impairment. A significant number of fibromyalgia patients do not respond adequately to the current drugs (pregabalin, milnacipran, duloxetine) approved for fibromyalgia treatment by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Thus, there is still a need for adjunctive therapies. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. It is hypothesized that low dose naltrexone causes transient blockade of opioid receptors centrally resulting in a rebound of endorphin function which may attenuate pain in fibromyalgia. Treatment with low dose naltrexone may be an effective, highly tolerable and inexpensive treatment for fibromyalgia. Further controlled trials are needed. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  10. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Tomillero, A; Moral, M A

    2009-10-01

    [Methoxy-11c]PD-153035; Afamelanotide, Agalsidase beta, Alemtuzumab, Alkaline phosphatase, Amlodipine, Anecortave acetate, Apixaban, Aripiprazole, Atomoxetine hydrochloride; Bevacizumab, Bortezomib, Bosentan, Botulinum toxin type B, Brimonidine tartrate/timolol maleate, Brivudine; Canakinumab, Cetuximab, Chlorotoxin, Cinaciguat; Dapagliflozin, Decitabine, Duloxetine hydrochloride; Elagolix sodium, Eplerenone, Eritoran tetrasodium, Escitalopram oxalate, Etoricoxib, Ezetimibe; Fospropofol disodium; G-207, Gabapentin enacarbil, Gefitinib, Golimumab; Human plasmin; Inotuzumab ozogamicin, Insulin glargine, Insulin glulisine, Istaroxime, Ixabepilone; KLH; Levodopa/carbidopa/entacapone; Miglustat, Mitumprotimut-T, MP-470; Oblimersen sodium, Olmesartan medoxomil; P53-SLP, PAN-811, Patupilone, Pazopanib hydrochloride, PC-515, Peginterferon alfa-2a, Pegylated arginine deiminase 20000, Pemetrexed disodium, Plitidepsin, Pregabalin; Rasagiline mesilate, Rotigotine; SCH-697243, Sirolimus-eluting stent, Sumatriptan succinate/naproxen sodium, Sunitinib malate; Tadalafil, Tapentadol hydrochloride, TMC-207; V-211, Valganciclovir hydrochloride; Zolpidem tartrate. Copyright 2009 Prous Science, S.A.U. or its licensors. All rights reserved.

  11. Copper-catalyzed selective hydroamination reactions of alkynes

    PubMed Central

    Shi, Shi-Liang; Buchwald, Stephen L.

    2014-01-01

    The development of selective reactions that utilize easily available and abundant precursors for the efficient synthesis of amines is a longstanding goal of chemical research. Despite the centrality of amines in a number of important research areas, including medicinal chemistry, total synthesis and materials science, a general, selective, and step-efficient synthesis of amines is still needed. In this work we describe a set of mild catalytic conditions utilizing a single copper-based catalyst that enables the direct preparation of three distinct and important amine classes (enamines, α-chiral branched alkylamines, and linear alkylamines) from readily available alkyne starting materials with high levels of chemo-, regio-, and stereoselectivity. This methodology was applied to the asymmetric synthesis of rivastigmine and the formal synthesis of several other pharmaceutical agents, including duloxetine, atomoxetine, fluoxetine, and tolterodine. PMID:25515888

  12. Copper-catalysed selective hydroamination reactions of alkynes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shi, Shi-Liang; Buchwald, Stephen L.

    2015-01-01

    The development of selective reactions that utilize easily available and abundant precursors for the efficient synthesis of amines is a long-standing goal of chemical research. Despite the centrality of amines in a number of important research areas, including medicinal chemistry, total synthesis and materials science, a general, selective and step-efficient synthesis of amines is still needed. Here, we describe a set of mild catalytic conditions utilizing a single copper-based catalyst that enables the direct preparation of three distinct and important amine classes (enamines, α-chiral branched alkylamines and linear alkylamines) from readily available alkyne starting materials with high levels of chemo-, regio- and stereoselectivity. This methodology was applied to the asymmetric synthesis of rivastigmine and the formal synthesis of several other pharmaceutical agents, including duloxetine, atomoxetine, fluoxetine and tolterodine.

  13. [Hyponatremia associated with SSRI/NRSI: Descriptive and comparative epidemiological study of the incidence rates of the notified cases from the data of the French National Pharmacovigilance Database and the French National Health Insurance].

    PubMed

    Revol, R; Rault, C; Polard, E; Bellet, F; Guy, C

    2018-06-01

    Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are frequently prescribed. These antidepressants can potentially induce serious hyponatremia through the SIADH syndrome. That seems to concern all molecules of these classes but the individual risk of each molecule is not well known. The aims of the study were to compare the incidence rate of each molecule in order to identify the existence of molecules more at risk of inducing hyponatremia and to characterize a profile of patients at risk for hyponatremia during a treatment with a SSRI or a SNRI. The cases of hyponatremia under SSRI/SNRI were extracted from the French pharmacovigilance database (BPNV). The exposition to the different SSRIs/SNRIs in the French population was estimated from the French National Health Insurance database (SNIIRAM) using a sampled database (Echantillon Généralistes des Bénéficiaires). The study ran from 01/01/2011 to 31/12/2013. The primary study endpoint was the incidence rate of notifications of the hyponatremia cases in patients treated by SSRI/SNRI and recorded into the BNPV database, related to the average annual number of corresponding treatments initiated during the same period. The number of cases of hyponatremia included in the study was 169 for 3 749 800 adult patients initiating treatment. The incidence rate of cases was 1.64 for 100 000 persons per year (PY). The standardized incidence rates between the different molecules showed no difference except for duloxetine (2.79/100 000 PY p > 0.03). Identified risk factors were age, with a large increase of incidence rate from 75 years old (incidence 12.5 higher) and female gender. Comparison of the incidence rates from spontaneous reports indicates a greater risk of hyponatremia for duloxetine for 2011-2013. This result needs to be confirmed by other studies. The advanced age and female sex are risk factors, irrespective of the molecule. Copyright © 2017 L'Encéphale, Paris. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  14. Are antidepressant drugs that combine serotonergic and noradrenergic mechanisms of action more effective than the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating major depressive disorder? A meta-analysis of studies of newer agents.

    PubMed

    Papakostas, George I; Thase, Michael E; Fava, Maurizio; Nelson, J Craig; Shelton, Richard C

    2007-12-01

    Recent studies suggest that the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) with newer antidepressant drugs that simultaneously enhance norepinephrine and serotonin neurotransmission might result in higher response and remission rates than the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The goal of our work was to compare response rates among patients with MDD treated with either of these two broad categories of antidepressant drugs. Medline/Pubmed, EMBase, clinical trial registries, program syllabi from major psychiatric meetings held since 1995, and documents from relevant pharmaceutical companies were searched for double-blind, randomized trials comparing a newer serotonergic-noradrenergic antidepressant drug (venlafaxine, duloxetine, milnacipran, mirtazapine, mianserin, or moclobemide) with an SSRI for MDD. Ninety-three trials (n = 17,036) were combined using a random-effects model. Treatment with serotonergic + noradrenergic antidepressant drugs was more likely to result in clinical response than the SSRIs (risk ratio [RR] = 1.059; response rates 63.6% versus 59.3%; p = .003). There was no evidence for heterogeneity among studies combined (p = 1.0). Excluding each individual agent did not significantly alter the pooled RR. With the exception of duloxetine (.985), RRs for response for each individual serotonergic + noradrenergic antidepressant drug were within the 95% confidence interval of the pooled RR (1.019-1.101). Serotonergic-noradrenergic antidepressant drugs seem to have a modest efficacy advantage compared with SSRIs in MDD. With the Number Needed to Treat (NNT) statistic as one indicator of clinical significance, nearly 24 patients would need to be treated with dual-action antidepressant drugs instead of SSRIs in order to obtain one additional responder. This difference falls well below the mark of NNT = 10 suggested by the United Kingdom's National Institute of Clinical Excellence but nonetheless might be of public health relevance given the large number of depressed patients treated with SSRI /serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant drugs. Further research is needed to examine whether larger differences between classes of antidepressant drugs might exist in specific MDD sub-populations or for specific MDD symptoms.

  15. Urodynamic investigation by telemetry in Beagle dogs: validation and effects of oral administration of current urological drugs: a pilot study

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Vesico-urethral function may be evaluated in humans and dogs by conventional urodynamic testing (cystometry and urethral pressure profilometry) or by electromyography. These techniques are performed under general anaesthesia in dogs. However, anaesthesia can depress bladder and urethral pressures and inhibit the micturition reflex. The primary objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the use of telemetry for urodynamic investigation in dogs. We also aimed to determine the applicability of telemetry to toxicologic studies by assessing the repeatability of telemetric recordings. Results Conventional diuresis cystometry was performed in six continent adult female Beagle dogs prior to surgical implantation of telemetric and electromyographic devices. In the first phase of the telemetric study, continuous recordings were performed over 8 days and nights. Abdominal, intravesical and detrusor threshold pressures (Pdet th), voided volume (Vv), urethral smooth muscle electrical activity and involuntary detrusor contractions (IDC) were measured during the bladder filling phase and during micturition episodes. Vv recorded during telemetry was significantly lower than bladder volume obtained by diuresis cystometry. Repeatability of telemetric measurements was greater for observations recorded at night. IDC frequency and Pdet th were both lower and Vv was higher at night compared to values recorded during daytime. In the second phase of the telemetric study, phenylpropanolamine, oestriol, bethanechol, oxybutynin or duloxetine were administered orally for 15 days. For each drug, continuous recordings were performed overnight for 12 hours on days 0, 1, 8 and 15. Electromyographic urethral activity was significantly increased 8 days after oestriol or duloxetine administration. No significant changes in bladder function were observed at any time point. Conclusions In dogs, the high repeatability of nocturnal telemetric recordings indicates that this technique could provide more informative results for urologic research. Urethral smooth muscle electrical activity appears to be modified by administration of drugs with urethral tropism. In this pilot telemetric study, bladder function was not affected by oral administration of urological drugs at their recommended clinical dosages. Experimental studies, (pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic) and clinical studies are warranted to further define the effects of these drugs on vesico-urethral function in dogs. PMID:24099564

  16. Coding of adverse events of suicidality in clinical study reports of duloxetine for the treatment of major depressive disorder: descriptive study

    PubMed Central

    Tendal, Britta; Hróbjartsson, Asbjørn; Lundh, Andreas; Gøtzsche, Peter C

    2014-01-01

    Objective To assess the effects of coding and coding conventions on summaries and tabulations of adverse events data on suicidality within clinical study reports. Design Systematic electronic search for adverse events of suicidality in tables, narratives, and listings of adverse events in individual patients within clinical study reports. Where possible, for each event we extracted the original term reported by the investigator, the term as coded by the medical coding dictionary, medical coding dictionary used, and the patient’s trial identification number. Using the patient’s trial identification number, we attempted to reconcile data on the same event between the different formats for presenting data on adverse events within the clinical study report. Setting 9 randomised placebo controlled trials of duloxetine for major depressive disorder submitted to the European Medicines Agency for marketing approval. Data sources Clinical study reports obtained from the EMA in 2011. Results Six trials used the medical coding dictionary COSTART (Coding Symbols for a Thesaurus of Adverse Reaction Terms) and three used MedDRA (Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities). Suicides were clearly identifiable in all formats of adverse event data in clinical study reports. Suicide attempts presented in tables included both definitive and provisional diagnoses. Suicidal ideation and preparatory behaviour were obscured in some tables owing to the lack of specificity of the medical coding dictionary, especially COSTART. Furthermore, we found one event of suicidal ideation described in narrative text that was absent from tables and adverse event listings of individual patients. The reason for this is unclear, but may be due to the coding conventions used. Conclusion Data on adverse events in tables in clinical study reports may not accurately represent the underlying patient data because of the medical dictionaries and coding conventions used. In clinical study reports, the listings of adverse events for individual patients and narratives of adverse events can provide additional information, including original investigator reported adverse event terms, which can enable a more accurate estimate of harms. PMID:24899651

  17. A 52-year-old woman with disabling peripheral neuropathy: review of diabetic polyneuropathy.

    PubMed

    Rutkove, Seward B

    2009-10-07

    Ms Q is a 52-year-old woman who has had progressive polyneuropathy in the setting of diabetes for the past 8 years. Ms Q's major disability is that of increasingly severe neuropathic pain and cramps that have been poorly responsive to a variety of therapies, including gabapentin and topiramate. The diagnosis of and differential diagnosis for diabetic polyneuropathy are reviewed herein. In general, treatment options for diabetic polyneuropathy remain primarily symptomatic. Improving the metabolic profile through weight loss, exercise, and if necessary, medications may help slow neuropathy progression. Many medications are effective in reducing pain, and newly developed ones, such as pregabalin and duloxetine, while specifically marketed for diabetic neuropathy, are likely to be no better and are considerably more expensive than older ones. Alpha-lipoic acid appears to be effective as well.

  18. A framework for fibromyalgia management for primary care providers.

    PubMed

    Arnold, Lesley M; Clauw, Daniel J; Dunegan, L Jean; Turk, Dennis C

    2012-05-01

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain disorder commonly associated with comorbid symptoms, including fatigue and nonrestorative sleep. As in the management of other chronic medical disorders, the approach for fibromyalgia management follows core principles of comprehensive assessment, education, goal setting, multimodal treatment including pharmacological (eg, pregabalin, duloxetine, milnacipran) and nonpharmacological therapies (eg, physical activity, behavioral therapy, sleep hygiene, education), and regular education and monitoring of treatment response and progress. Based on these core management principles, this review presents a framework for primary care providers through which they can develop a patient-centered treatment program for patients with fibromyalgia. This proactive and systematic treatment approach encourages ongoing education and patient self-management and is designed for use in the primary care setting. Copyright © 2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. [Drug therapy of female urinary incontinence].

    PubMed

    Hampel, C; Gillitzer, R; Pahernik, S; Melchior, S W; Thüroff, J W

    2005-03-01

    Drug treatment for female urinary incontinence requires a thorough knowledge of the differential diagnosis and pathophysiology of incontinence as well as of the pharmacological agents employed. Pharmacotherapy has to be tailored to suit the incontinence subtype and should be carefully balanced according to efficacy and side effects of the drug. Women with urge incontinence require treatment that relaxes or desensitizes the bladder (antimuscarinics, estrogens, alpha-blockers, beta-mimetics, botulinum toxin A, resiniferatoxin, vinpocetine), whereas patients with stress incontinence need stimulation and strengthening of the pelvic floor and external sphincter (alpha-mimetics, estrogens, duloxetine). Females with overflow incontinence need reduction of outflow resistance (baclofen, alpha-blockers, intrasphincteric botulinum toxin A) and/or improvement of bladder contractility (parasympathomimetics). If nocturia or nocturnal incontinence are the major complaints, control of diuresis is obtained by administration of the ADH analogue desmopressin. Future developments will help to further optimize the pharmacological therapy for female urinary incontinence.

  20. Variability in market uptake of psychotropic medications in Europe reflects cultural diversity.

    PubMed

    Hoebert, J M; Mantel-Teeuwisse, A K; Leufkens, H G M; van Dijk, L

    2017-11-06

    In the last 20-30 years, many international studies have found substantial differences in the use of (older) psychotropic medication between European countries. The majority mentioned an important role for attitudes and beliefs towards psychotropic medication. So far, no studies have looked into the effects of cultural diversity on the use of new medications entering the market. As national cultures relate deeply to held values regarding, for example, what is seen as effective versus ineffective or safe versus dangerous, (cultural) diversity in decision making around the role of new medications in clinical practice may already be expected from the first day after market authorization. This study examined the relation between cultural diversity, described in Hofstede's model of cultural dimensions (Power Distance, Individualism, Masculinity, Uncertainty Avoidance, Indulgence and Long-Term Orientation) and utilization of three new psychotropic medications, namely aripiprazole, duloxetine and pregabalin in Europe. Country level sales data of the case study medications were correlated to country-specific scores of Hofstede's cultural dimensions. IMS Health's MIDAS database has been used for sales data (converted to Defined Daily Doses/1000 inhabitants/day) for the case study medications from the market authorization date in 2004 until December 2009 for 23 EU member states. Consumption of the case study medications was seen in all countries. In general, pregabalin was used more often than aripiprazole and duloxetine. In 2 years after market authorization, approximately 80% of all countries have reported use of all three molecules. Correlations between Hofstede dimensions individualism, long-term orientation and indulgence and total use of the case study medications tended to become stronger over time, but they were only statistically significant for indulgence at two years after market authorization (rho = 0.51, p = 0.014) and three years after market authorization (rho = 0.54, p = 0.008). A more detailed analysis showed (slight) variation by molecule. This study is a first step in including cultural dimensions when explaining cross-national variation in the use of new medications. The results indicate that indulgence, however marginally, is a cultural aspect that relates to the utilization of new psychotropic medications, suggesting that within the cultural context, less regulation of social norms is a main factor in explaining cross-national variation in uptake of these medications.

  1. Periodic mesoporous organosilica materials as sorbents for solid-phase extraction of drugs prior to simultaneous enantiomeric separation by capillary electrophoresis.

    PubMed

    Valimaña-Traverso, Jesús; Morante-Zarcero, Sonia; Pérez-Quintanilla, Damián; García, María Ángeles; Sierra, Isabel; Marina, María Luisa

    2018-06-19

    Two novel periodic mesoporous organosilica materials were synthesized with a neutral phenylene-bridged ligand, 1,4-bis(trimethoxysilylethyl)benzene, one of them using tetraethyl orthosilicate as additional silica source (PMO-TMSEB-1 and PMO-TMSEB-2). A third material was also synthesized with 1,4-bis(triethoxysilyl)benzene ligand (PMO-TESB-1) which use has scarcely been reported. The three materials were evaluated as solid-phase extraction (SPE) sorbents for the off-line extraction of a mixture of seven drugs of different nature (duloxetine, terbutaline, econazole, propranolol, verapamil, metoprolol, and betaxolol) from water samples. Subsequent simultaneous enantiomeric analysis by CE, using sulfated-β-cyclodextrin (2% w/v) dissolved in a 25 mM phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) and a voltage of -20 kV (negative polarity) was carried out. Enantiomeric resolutions ranging from 2.4 to 8.5 were obtained in an analysis time of 16 min. After optimization of SPE parameters, it was shown that using just 100 mg of PMO-TESB-1 as sorbent, a preconcentration factor of 400 with 200 mL solution was achieved, allowing recoveries between 80.5 and 103.1% (except for terbutaline), with good repeatability (% RSD = 2-8 %, n = 5). Analytical characteristics of the method were evaluated in terms of precision, linearity and accuracy with method quantitation limits between 5.6 and 21.9 μg/L. The developed method was applied to the analysis of spiked wastewater samples collected in different treatment plants, with recoveries between 73.9 and 102.9% except for econazole with recovery values ranging between 58.5 and 72.4%. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Fibromyalgia: harmonizing science with clinical practice considerations.

    PubMed

    Perrot, Serge; Dickenson, Anthony H; Bennett, Robert M

    2008-01-01

    This review summarizes the present and emerging knowledge base on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is the most common chronic pain syndrome encountered in general medicine and rheumatology. Historically, contemporary concepts of fibromyalgia have evolved in terms of its clinical description and parallel advances in the understanding of its pathophysiology. A generally accepted paradigm postulates that fibromyalgia is the clinical expression of a rheumatologic disorder in which the associated pain is driven primarily by central sensitization and possibly through changes in several neuronal systems but not necessarily reliant on peripheral processes. Several agents, including serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (ie, duloxetine and milnacipran), opioids (ie, tramadol), and the alpha2-delta ligand pregabalin, which recently received U.S. regulatory approval for the treatment of fibromyalgia, have been evaluated in clinical trials, demonstrating benefit in terms of pain reduction and improvement in core symptoms (ie, fatigue and sleep disturbance). The European League Against Rheumatism has developed updated guidelines for the management of fibromyalgia.

  3. Trace analysis of antidepressant pharmaceuticals and their select degradates in aquatic matrixes by LC/ESI/MS/MS

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Schultz, M.M.; Furlong, E.T.

    2008-01-01

    Treated wastewater effluent is a potential environmental point source for antidepressant pharmaceuticals. A quantitative method was developed for the determination of trace levels of antidepressants in environmental aquatic matrixes using solid-phase extraction coupled with liquid chromatography- electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Recoveries of parent antidepressants from matrix spiking experiments for the individual antidepressants ranged from 72 to 118% at low concentrations (0.5 ng/L) and 70 to 118% at high concentrations (100 ng/L) for the solid-phase extraction method. Method detection limits for the individual antidepressant compounds ranged from 0.19 to 0.45 ng/L. The method was applied to wastewater effluent and samples collected from a wastewater-dominated stream. Venlafaxine was the predominant antidepressant observed in wastewater and river water samples. Individual antidepressant concentrations found in the wastewater effluent ranged from 3 (duloxetine) to 2190 ng/L (venlafaxine), whereas individual concentrations in the waste-dominated stream ranged from 0.72 (norfluoxetine) to 1310 ng/L (venlafaxine). ?? 2008 American Chemical Society.

  4. Nonsurgical Outpatient Therapies for the Management of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: Long-Term Effectiveness and Durability

    PubMed Central

    Davila, G. Willy

    2011-01-01

    Objective. To evaluate long-term effectiveness and safety of conservative and minimally invasive outpatient treatments for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) through a review of the literature. Methods. PubMed was searched for reports on prospective clinical trials with at least 12-month follow-up of minimally invasive treatments, pelvic floor rehabilitation, or pharmacotherapy in women with SUI. Each report was examined for long-term rates of effectiveness and safety. Results. Thirty-two clinical trial reports were included. Prospective long-term studies of pelvic floor rehabilitation were limited but indicated significant improvements with treatment adherence for at least 12 months. Poor initial tolerability with duloxetine resulted in substantial discontinuation. Most patients receiving transurethral radiofrequency collagen denaturation or urethral bulking agents reported significant long-term improvements, generally good tolerability, and safety. Conclusions. Conservative therapy is an appropriate initial approach for female SUI, but if therapy fails, radiofrequency collagen denaturation or bulking agents may be an attractive intermediate management step or alternative to surgery. PMID:21738529

  5. Review of pharmacological therapies in fibromyalgia syndrome

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    This review addresses the current status of drug therapy for the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and is based on interdisciplinary FMS management guidelines, meta-analyses of drug trial data, and observational studies. In the absence of a single gold-standard medication, patients are treated with a variety of drugs from different categories, often with limited evidence. Drug therapy is not mandatory for the management of FMS. Pregabalin, duloxetine, milnacipran, and amitriptyline are the current first-line prescribed agents but have had a mostly modest effect. With only a minority of patients expected to experience substantial benefit, most will discontinue therapy because of either a lack of efficacy or tolerability problems. Many drug treatments have undergone limited study and have had negative results. It is unlikely that these failed pilot trials will undergo future study. However, medications, though imperfect, will continue to be a component of treatment strategy for these patients. Both the potential for medication therapy to relieve symptoms and the potential to cause harm should be carefully considered in their administration. PMID:24433463

  6. Depression masquerading as chest pain in a patient with Wolff Parkinson White syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Madabushi, Rajashree; Agarwal, Anil; Gautam, Sujeet K S; Khuba, Sandeep

    2016-01-01

    Wolff Parkinson White (WPW) syndrome is a condition in which there is an aberrant conduction pathway between the atria and ventricles, resulting in tachycardia. A 42-year-old patient, who was treated for WPW syndrome previously, presented with chronic somatic pain. With her cardiac condition in mind, she was thoroughly worked up for a recurrence of disease. As part of routine screening of all patients at our pain clinic, she was found to have severe depression as per the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ–9) criteria. After ruling out sinister causes, she was treated for depression using oral Duloxetine and counselling. This led to resolution of symptoms, and improved her mood and functional capability. This case highlights the use of psychological screening tools and diligent examination in scenarios as confusing as the one presented here. Addressing the psychological aspects of pain and adopting a holistic approach are as important as treatment of the primary pathology. PMID:27738505

  7. Suicidality and aggression during antidepressant treatment: systematic review and meta-analyses based on clinical study reports.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Tarang; Guski, Louise Schow; Freund, Nanna; Gøtzsche, Peter C

    2016-01-27

    To study serious harms associated with selective serotonin and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Mortality and suicidality. Secondary outcomes were aggressive behaviour and akathisia. Clinical study reports for duloxetine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine obtained from the European and UK drug regulators, and summary trial reports for duloxetine and fluoxetine from Eli Lilly's website. Double blind placebo controlled trials that contained any patient narratives or individual patient listings of harms. Two researchers extracted data independently; the outcomes were meta-analysed by Peto's exact method (fixed effect model). We included 70 trials (64,381 pages of clinical study reports) with 18,526 patients. These trials had limitations in the study design and discrepancies in reporting, which may have led to serious under-reporting of harms. For example, some outcomes appeared only in individual patient listings in appendices, which we had for only 32 trials, and we did not have case report forms for any of the trials. Differences in mortality (all deaths were in adults, odds ratio 1.28, 95% confidence interval 0.40 to 4.06), suicidality (1.21, 0.84 to 1.74), and akathisia (2.04, 0.93 to 4.48) were not significant, whereas patients taking antidepressants displayed more aggressive behaviour (1.93, 1.26 to 2.95). For adults, the odds ratios were 0.81 (0.51 to 1.28) for suicidality, 1.09 (0.55 to 2.14) for aggression, and 2.00 (0.79 to 5.04) for akathisia. The corresponding values for children and adolescents were 2.39 (1.31 to 4.33), 2.79 (1.62 to 4.81), and 2.15 (0.48 to 9.65). In the summary trial reports on Eli Lilly's website, almost all deaths were noted, but all suicidal ideation events were missing, and the information on the remaining outcomes was incomplete. Because of the shortcomings identified and having only partial access to appendices with no access to case report forms, the harms could not be estimated accurately. In adults there was no significant increase in all four outcomes, but in children and adolescents the risk of suicidality and aggression doubled. To elucidate the harms reliably, access to anonymised individual patient data is needed. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

  8. Cost-utility of cognitive behavioral therapy versus U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommended drugs and usual care in the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia: an economic evaluation alongside a 6-month randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Luciano, Juan V; D'Amico, Francesco; Cerdà-Lafont, Marta; Peñarrubia-María, María T; Knapp, Martin; Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio I; Serrano-Blanco, Antoni; García-Campayo, Javier

    2014-10-01

    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-recommended pharmacologic treatments (RPTs; pregabalin, duloxetine, and milnacipran) are effective treatment options for fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome and are currently recommended by clinical guidelines. We compared the cost-utility from the healthcare and societal perspectives of CBT versus RPT (combination of pregabalin + duloxetine) and usual care (TAU) groups in the treatment of FM. The economic evaluation was conducted alongside a 6-month, multicenter, randomized, blinded, parallel group, controlled trial. In total, 168 FM patients from 41 general practices in Zaragoza (Spain) were randomized to CBT (n = 57), RPT (n = 56), or TAU (n = 55). The main outcome measures were Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs, assessed by using the EuroQoL-5D questionnaire) and improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL, assessed by using EuroQoL-5D visual analogue scale, EQ-VAS). The costs of healthcare use were estimated from patient self-reports (Client Service Receipt Inventory). Cost-utility was assessed by using the net-benefit approach and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves (CEACs). On average, the total costs per patient in the CBT group (1,847 €) were significantly lower than those in patients receiving RPT (3,664 €) or TAU (3,124 €). Patients receiving CBT reported a higher quality of life (QALYs and EQ-VAS scores); the differences between groups were significant only for EQ-VAS. From a complete case-analysis approach (base case), the point estimates of the cost-effectiveness ratios resulted in dominance for the CBT group in all of the comparisons performed, by using both QALYs and EQ-VAS as outcomes. These findings were confirmed by bootstrap analyses, net-benefit curves, and CEACs. Two additional sensitivity analyses (intention-to-treat analysis and per-protocol analysis) indicated that the results were robust. The comparison of RPT with TAU yielded no clear preference for either treatment when using QALYs, although RPT was determined to be more cost-effective than TAU when evaluating EQ-VAS. Because of lower costs, CBT is the most cost-effective treatment for adult FM patients. Implementation in routine medical care would require policymakers to develop more-widespread public access to trained and experienced therapists in group-based forms of CBT. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN10804772. Registered 29 September 2008.

  9. Prior stress exposure increases pain behaviors in a rat model of full thickness thermal injury.

    PubMed

    Nyland, Jennifer E; McLean, Samuel A; Averitt, Dayna L

    2015-12-01

    Thermal burns among individuals working in highly stressful environments, such as firefighters and military Service Members, are common. Evidence suggests that pre-injury stress may exaggerate pain following thermal injury; however current animal models of burn have not evaluated the potential influence of pre-burn stress. This sham-controlled study evaluated the influence of prior stress exposure on post-burn thermal and mechanical sensitivity in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats were exposed to 20 min of inescapable swim stress or sham stress once per day for three days. Exposure to inescapable swim stress (1) increased the intensity and duration of thermal hyperalgesia after subsequent burn and (2) accelerated the onset of thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia after subsequent burn. This stress-induced exacerbation of pain sensitivity was reversed by pretreatment and concurrent treatment with the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine. These data suggest a better understanding of mechanisms by which prior stress augments pain after thermal burn may lead to improved pain treatments for burn survivors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

  10. Changing tides: Adaptive monitoring, assessment, and management of pharmaceutical hazards in the environment through time.

    PubMed

    Gaw, Sally; Brooks, Bryan W

    2016-04-01

    Pharmaceuticals are ubiquitous contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. Adaptive monitoring, assessment, and management programs will be required to reduce the environmental hazards of pharmaceuticals of concern. Potentially underappreciated factors that drive the environmental dose of pharmaceuticals include regulatory approvals, marketing campaigns, pharmaceutical subsidies and reimbursement schemes, and societal acceptance. Sales data for 5 common antidepressants (duloxetine [Cymbalta], escitalopram [Lexapro], venlafaxine [Effexor], bupropion [Wellbutrin], and sertraline [Zoloft]) in the United States from 2004 to 2008 were modeled to explore how environmental hazards in aquatic ecosystems changed after patents were obtained or expired. Therapeutic hazard ratios for Effexor and Lexapro did not exceed 1; however, the therapeutic hazard ratio for Zoloft declined whereas the therapeutic hazard ratio for Cymbalta increased as a function of patent protection and sale patterns. These changes in therapeutic hazard ratios highlight the importance of considering current and future drivers of pharmaceutical use when prioritizing pharmaceuticals for water quality monitoring programs. When urban systems receiving discharges of environmental contaminants are examined, water quality efforts should identify, prioritize, and select target analytes presently in commerce for effluent monitoring and surveillance. © 2015 SETAC.

  11. Burning mouth syndrome: a review and update.

    PubMed

    Silvestre, Francisco J; Silvestre-Rangil, Javier; López-Jornet, Pía

    2015-05-16

    Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is mainly found in middle aged or elderly women and is characterized by intense burning or itching sensation of the tongue or other regions of the oral mucosa. It can be accompanied by xerostomia and dysgeusia. The syndrome generally manifests spontaneously, and the discomfort is typically of a continuous nature but increases in intensity during the evening and at night. Although BMS classically has been attributed to a range of factors, in recent years evidence has been obtained relating it peripheral (sensory C and/or trigeminal nerve fibers) or central neuropathic disturbances (involving the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system). The differential diagnosis requires the exclusion of oral mucosal lesions or blood test alterations that can produce burning mouth sensation. Patient management is based on the avoidance of causes of oral irritation and the provision of psychological support. Drug treatment for burning sensation in primary BMS of peripheral origin can consist of topical clonazepam, while central type BMS appears to improve with the use of antidepressants such as duloxetine, antiseizure drugs such as gabapentin, or amisulpride.

  12. The safety of serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) in pregnancy and breastfeeding: a comprehensive review.

    PubMed

    Bellantuono, Cesario; Vargas, Marianna; Mandarelli, Gabriele; Nardi, Bernardo; Martini, Maria Giulia

    2015-05-01

    The present study provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the safety of serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) in pregnancy and lactation. Studies published in English, reporting the use of SNRIs in pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, were identified by searching MEDLINE/Pubmed, PsycINFO, and EMBASE. Twenty-nine studies were included in the review. Altogether, the initial evidence coming from the reviewed studies suggests a lack of association between SNRIs and an increased risk of major congenital malformations. Conversely, exposure to SNRIs seems to be significantly associated with an increased risk of some perinatal complications. No neonatal adverse events emerged, so far, in the few studies concerning the safety of SNRIs during breastfeeding. Available data suggest that venlafaxine is relatively safe during pregnancy, in particular as far as major malformations are concerned, whereas considering the small number of studies published, no definitive conclusions can be drawn on its safety during breastfeeding. Because of the few studies so far published, the safety of duloxetine during pregnancy and breastfeeding remains to be well established. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  13. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayes, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2005-10-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials is a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate, (Z)-4-hydroxytamoxifen; Ad.muIFN-beta AD-237, adalimumab, adefovir dipivoxil, agalsidase alfa, alemtuzumab, almotriptan, ALVAC vCP1452, alvimopan hydrate, ambrisentan, anakinra, anti-IFN-gamma MAb; Bimatoprost, BMS-188797, BMS-214662, bortezomib, bosentan, bovine lactoferrin; Caffeine, canertinib dihydrochloride, canfosfamide hydrochloride, cannabidiol, caspofungin acetate, cetuximab, cH36, ChimeriVax-JE, ciclesonide, cilansetron, cinacalcet hydrochloride, clopidogrel, CpG-7909, Cypher; Daptomycin, darbepoetin alfa, darifenacin hydrobromide, decitabine, denufosol tetrasodium, Dexamet, diindolemethane, drotrecogin alfa (activated), duloxetine hydrochloride, DX-9065a; E-7010, edaravone, efalizumab, eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid, elacridar, eletriptan, emtricitabine, epratuzumab, erlotinib hydrochloride, ertapenem sodium, eszopiclone, everolimus, ezetimibe; Fludarabine, fondaparinux sodium; gamma-Hydroxybutyrate sodium, gavestinel sodium, gefitinib, granisetron-Biochronomer; Human Albumin, human insulin; Imatinib mesylate, indiplon, interleukin-2 XL, isatoribine, ISS-1018, i.v. gamma-globulin, ivabradine hydrochloride, ixabepilone; Lanthanum carbonate, L-arginine hydrochloride, liposomal doxorubicin, LY-450139; Magnesium sulfate, melatonin, motexafin gadolinium, mycophenolic acid sodium salt; Natalizumab, nesiritide, niacin/lovastatin; OGX-011, olmesartan medoxomil, omalizumab, ospemifene; PACAP38, panitumumab, parathyroid hormone (human recombinant), parecoxib sodium, patupilone, pegfilgrastim, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, peginterferon alfa-2b/ribavirin, pemetrexed disodium, pimecrolimus, pirfenidone, posaconazole, prasterone, pregabalin; R-112, ramelteon, ranolazine, rasagiline mesilate, rebimastat, roflumilast, rosuvastatin calcium, rotigotine hydrochloride, rupatadine fumarate; S-3013, S-3304, semustine, sitaxsentan sodium, St. John's Wort extract; Tadalafil, tamoxifen, Taxus, Tc-99m-EDDA-HYNIC-TOC, TH-9507, tiotropium bromide, tipifarnib, tocilizumab, tolvaptan, torcetrapib, TR-14035, tramadol hydrochloride/acetaminophen, treprostinil diethanolamine, troglitazone, troxacitabine; Valdecoxib, valganciclovir hydrochloride, vandetanib, vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, VAS-991, veglin, vinflunine, voriconazole; White sweet potato extract; Ximelagatran. (c) 2005 Prous Science. All rights reserved.

  14. Fibromyalgia: presentation and management with a focus on pharmacological treatment.

    PubMed

    Sumpton, Janice E; Moulin, Dwight E

    2008-01-01

    Fibromyalgia is a condition with widespread muscle pain. Prevalence studies showed that 2% to 7% of the population have fibromyalgia, which affects approximately one million Canadians. Fibromyalgia is most common in women, but it also involves men and children. As with most chronic illnesses, the causes of fibromyalgia are unknown. However, recent research supports underlying abnormalities in the central nervous system, which supports fibromyalgia as a chronic disease state and valid clinical entity. Pain is the primary symptom, often accompanied by overwhelming fatigue, sleep dysfunction and cognitive impairment. In 1990, the American College of Rheumatology developed diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Lifestyle changes, including pacing of activities and aerobic exercise, are very important in managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Emotional and behavioural therapy can also be helpful. Controlled trials of antidepressants, gabapentinoids, tramadol, zopiclone and sodium oxybate have shown effectiveness in fibromyalgia patients. Pregabalin and duloxetine were recently approved in the United States. Effective management of fibromyalgia is complex and requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Response and tolerance of different therapeutic interventions vary from patient to patient. Recent advances in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia offer hope for new and improved therapies in the management of this disabling condition.

  15. Treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome: recommendations of recent evidence-based interdisciplinary guidelines with special emphasis on complementary and alternative therapies.

    PubMed

    Ablin, Jacob; Fitzcharles, Mary-Ann; Buskila, Dan; Shir, Yoram; Sommer, Claudia; Häuser, Winfried

    2013-01-01

    Objective. Current evidence indicates that there is no single ideal treatment for fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). First choice treatment options remain debatable, especially concerning the importance of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments. Methods. Three evidence-based interdisciplinary guidelines on FMS in Canada, Germany, and Israel were compared for their first choice and CAM-recommendations. Results. All three guidelines emphasized a patient-tailored approach according to the key symptoms. Aerobic exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and multicomponent therapy were first choice treatments. The guidelines differed in the grade of recommendation for drug treatment. Anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (duloxetine, milnacipran) were strongly recommended by the Canadian and the Israeli guidelines. These drugs received only a weak recommendation by the German guideline. In consideration of CAM-treatments, acupuncture, hypnosis/guided imagery, and Tai Chi were recommended by the German and Israeli guidelines. The Canadian guidelines did not recommend any CAM therapy. Discussion. Recent evidence-based interdisciplinary guidelines concur on the importance of treatment tailored to the individual patient and further emphasize the need of self-management strategies (exercise, and psychological techniques).

  16. An update on pharmacotherapy for the treatment of fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    Calandre, Elena P; Rico-Villademoros, Fernando; Slim, Mahmoud

    2015-06-01

    Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic generalized pain in addition to different symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, stiffness, cognitive impairment, and psychological distress. Multidisciplinary treatment combining pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies is advised. Publications describing randomized controlled trials and long-term extension studies evaluating drug treatment for fibromyalgia were searched in PubMed and Scopus and included in this review. Different drugs are recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia by different published guidelines, although only three of them have been approved for this indication by the US FDA, and none have been approved by the European Medicines Agency. According to the available evidence, pregabalin, duloxetine and milnacipran should be the drugs of choice for the treatment of this disease, followed by amitriptyline and cyclobenzaprine. Other drugs with at least one positive clinical trial include some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, moclobemide, pirlindole, gabapentin, tramadol, tropisetron, sodium oxybate and nabilone. None of the currently available drugs are fully effective against the whole spectrum of fibromyalgia symptoms, namely pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and depression, among the most relevant symptoms. Combination therapy is an option that needs to be more thoroughly investigated in clinical trials.

  17. Influence of painful physical symptoms in the treatment of Japanese patients with melancholic major depressive disorder: A prospective cohort study.

    PubMed

    Sekine, Atsushi; Hozumi, Satoshi; Shimizu, Tetsuo

    2016-08-30

    The aim of this study was to clarify how painful physical symptoms affect treatment outcomes in patients with melancholic major depressive disorder. The subjects comprised 100 consecutive Japanese outpatients with melancholic major depressive disorder who visited our clinic from October 2011 to October 2014. All subjects were interviewed for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Axis 2, 3, and 4 and family history of major depressive disorder, and then grouped according to the presence of painful physical symptoms. We evaluated painful physical symptoms at baseline and after 12, 24, and 36 weeks of treatment and scores on the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, compared major depressive disorder remission between groups, and assessed responsiveness to antidepressants. The group with painful physical symptoms had a significantly more positive family history of major depressive disorder. The major depressive disorder remission rate was high in both groups, and no significant differences were observed. However, a significant relationship between major depressive disorder and painful physical symptoms remission was observed in the group with painful physical symptoms. A significantly higher number of remitted patients with painful physical symptoms (N=61) were administered serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, with significantly more receiving duloxetine than milnacipran. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Effects of selective serotonin reuptake and dual serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake treatments on attention and executive functions in patients with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Herrera-Guzmán, Ixchel; Herrera-Abarca, Jorge E; Gudayol-Ferré, Esteve; Herrera-Guzmán, Daniel; Gómez-Carbajal, Lizbeth; Peña-Olvira, Miriam; Villuendas-González, Erwin; Joan, Guàrdia-Olmos

    2010-05-30

    Several reports suggest that antidepressants may improve cognitive functioning in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). The present work aims to study the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) treatments on the performance of working memory, attention and executive functions in patients with MDD. A total of 73 subjects meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders version IV (DSM-IV) criteria for MDD, and 37 control subjects were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and a neuropsychological battery. The subjects were medicated with escitalopram (n=36) or duloxetine (n=37) for 24 weeks. At the end of the trial, the subjects were assessed again with the same tests. The depressed subjects showed alterations in attention and cognitive functions when compared to the control group. The administration of both treatments improved working memory, as well as attention and all the executive functions, but the cognitive functions of depressed patients do not improve enough to reach the levels of performance of the control subjects. Our results suggest that both SSRI and SNRI treatments presented the same efficacy in improving attention and the remaining executive functions. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Effects of selective serotonin reuptake and dual serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake treatments on memory and mental processing speed in patients with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Herrera-Guzmán, Ixchel; Gudayol-Ferré, Esteve; Herrera-Guzmán, Daniel; Guàrdia-Olmos, Joan; Hinojosa-Calvo, Erika; Herrera-Abarca, Jorge E

    2009-06-01

    Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) usually suffer from altered cognitive functions of episodic memory, working memory, mental processing speed and motor response. Diverse studies suggest that different antidepressant agents may improve cognitive functions in patients with MDD. The aim of this work is to study the effects of serotonergic reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) treatments to improve the performance on memory tasks and mental processing speed in MDD. Seventy-three subjects meeting criteria for major depressive disorder were assessed with the Hamilton depression rating scale and a neuropsychological battery. The subjects were medicated with escitalopram (n=36) or duloxetine (n=37) for 24 weeks. At the end of the trial, the subjects were assessed again with the same neuropsychological battery used prior to the treatment. Both treatments improved importantly the episodic memory and to a lesser extent, working memory, mental processing speed and motor performance. Our results suggest that cognition is partially independent from improvement in clinical symptoms. Both groups achieved remission rates in the HAM-D-17 after 24 weeks of treatment, but SNRI was superior to SSRI at improving episodic and working memory. Our work indicates that the superiority of SNRI over the SSRI at episodic memory improvement is clinically relevant.

  20. Escitalopram—translating molecular properties into clinical benefit: reviewing the evidence in major depression

    PubMed Central

    Leonard, Brian; Taylor, David

    2010-01-01

    The majority of currently marketed drugs contain a mixture of enantiomers; however, recent evidence suggests that individual enantiomers can have pharmacological properties that differ importantly from enantiomer mixtures. Escitalopram, the S-enantiomer of citalopram, displays markedly different pharmacological activity to the R-enantiomer. This review aims to evaluate whether these differences confer any significant clinical advantage for escitalopram over either citalopram or other frequently used antidepressants. Searches were conducted using PubMed and EMBASE (up to January 2009). Abstracts of the retrieved studies were reviewed independently by both authors for inclusion. Only those studies relating to depression or major depressive disorder were included. The search identified over 250 citations, of which 21 studies and 18 pooled or meta-analyses studies were deemed suitable for inclusion. These studies reveal that escitalopram has some efficacy advantage over citalopram and paroxetine, but no consistent advantage over other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Escitalopram has at least comparable efficacy to available serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, venlafaxine XR and duloxetine, and may offer some tolerability advantages over these agents. This review suggests that the mechanistic advantages of escitalopram over citalopram translate into clinical efficacy advantages. Escitalopram may have a favourable benefit-risk ratio compared with citalopram and possibly with several other antidepressant agents. PMID:20147575

  1. Emerging analgesic drugs for Parkinson's disease.

    PubMed

    Perez-Lloret, Santiago; Rey, María Verónica; Dellapina, Estelle; Pellaprat, Jean; Brefel-Courbon, Christine; Rascol, Olivier

    2012-06-01

    Pain affects between 40 and 85% of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. It is a frequently disabling and overlooked feature, which can significantly reduce health-related quality of life. Unfortunately, there are no universally recommended treatments for this condition. Evidence about the efficacy and safety of available analgesic treatments is summarized in this review. Potential targets for upcoming therapies are then discussed in light of what is currently known about the physiopathology of pain in PD. Protocols for efficacy and safety assessment of novel analgesic therapies are discussed. Finally, critical aspects of study protocol design such as patient selection or outcomes to be evaluated are discussed. Preliminary results indicate that duloxetine, cranial electrotherapy stimulation, rotigotine, subthalamic or pallidum nuclei stimulation or lesion or levodopa could be effective for treating pain in PD. Similarly, some case reports indicate that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) or apomorphine could be effective for relieving painful off-period dystonia. Clinical trials with rTMS or oxycodone/naloxone prolonged-release tablets for neuropathic pain or botulinum toxin for off-period dystonia are underway. Success of clinical trials about analgesic strategies in PD will depend on the selection of the right PD population to be treated, according to the type of pain, and the proper selection of study outcomes and follow-up of international recommendations.

  2. Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Etiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

    PubMed Central

    Bellato, Enrico; Marini, Eleonora; Castoldi, Filippo; Barbasetti, Nicola; Mattei, Lorenzo; Bonasia, Davide Edoardo; Blonna, Davide

    2012-01-01

    Fibromyalgia syndrome is mainly characterized by pain, fatigue, and sleep disruption. The etiology of fibromyalgia is still unclear: if central sensitization is considered to be the main mechanism involved, then many other factors, genetic, immunological, and hormonal, may play an important role. The diagnosis is typically clinical (there are no laboratory abnormalities) and the physician must concentrate on pain and on its features. Additional symptoms (e.g., Raynaud's phenomenon, irritable bowel disease, and heat and cold intolerance) can be associated with this condition. A careful differential diagnosis is mandatory: fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis of exclusion. Since 1990, diagnosis has been principally based on the two major diagnostic criteria defined by the ACR. Recently, new criteria have been proposed. The main goals of the treatment are to alleviate pain, increase restorative sleep, and improve physical function. A multidisciplinary approach is optimal. While most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids have limited benefit, an important role is played by antidepressants and neuromodulating antiepileptics: currently duloxetine (NNT for a 30% pain reduction 7.2), milnacipran (NNT 19), and pregabalin (NNT 8.6) are the only drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of fibromyalgia. In addition, nonpharmacological treatments should be associated with drug therapy. PMID:23213512

  3. Antidepressants in Parkinson's disease. Recommendations by the movement disorder study group of the Neurological Association of Madrid.

    PubMed

    Peña, E; Mata, M; López-Manzanares, L; Kurtis, M; Eimil, M; Martínez-Castrillo, J C; Navas, I; Posada, I J; Prieto, C; Ruíz-Huete, C; Vela, L; Venegas, B

    2016-03-19

    Although antidepressants are widely used in Parkinson's disease (PD), few well-designed studies to support their efficacy have been conducted. These clinical guidelines are based on a review of the literature and the results of an AMN movement disorder study group survey. Evidence suggests that nortriptyline, venlafaxine, paroxetine, and citalopram may be useful in treating depression in PD, although studies on paroxetine and citalopram yield conflicting results. In clinical practice, however, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are usually considered the treatment of choice. Duloxetine may be an alternative to venlafaxine, although the evidence for this is less, and venlafaxine plus mirtazapine may be useful in drug-resistant cases. Furthermore, citalopram may be indicated for the treatment of anxiety, atomoxetine for hypersomnia, trazodone and mirtazapine for insomnia and psychosis, and bupropion for apathy. In general, antidepressants are well tolerated in PD. However, clinicians should consider the anticholinergic effect of tricyclic antidepressants, the impact of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors on blood pressure, the extrapyramidal effects of antidepressants, and any potential interactions between monoamine oxidase B inhibitors and other antidepressants. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  4. The Psychopharmacology Algorithm Project at the Harvard South Shore Program: An Algorithm for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

    PubMed

    Abejuela, Harmony Raylen; Osser, David N

    2016-01-01

    This revision of previous algorithms for the pharmacotherapy of generalized anxiety disorder was developed by the Psychopharmacology Algorithm Project at the Harvard South Shore Program. Algorithms from 1999 and 2010 and associated references were reevaluated. Newer studies and reviews published from 2008-14 were obtained from PubMed and analyzed with a focus on their potential to justify changes in the recommendations. Exceptions to the main algorithm for special patient populations, such as women of childbearing potential, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with common medical and psychiatric comorbidities, were considered. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are still the basic first-line medication. Early alternatives include duloxetine, buspirone, hydroxyzine, pregabalin, or bupropion, in that order. If response is inadequate, then the second recommendation is to try a different SSRI. Additional alternatives now include benzodiazepines, venlafaxine, kava, and agomelatine. If the response to the second SSRI is unsatisfactory, then the recommendation is to try a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Other alternatives to SSRIs and SNRIs for treatment-resistant or treatment-intolerant patients include tricyclic antidepressants, second-generation antipsychotics, and valproate. This revision of the GAD algorithm responds to issues raised by new treatments under development (such as pregabalin) and organizes the evidence systematically for practical clinical application.

  5. Advances in diagnostic and treatment options in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Gur, Ali; Oktayoglu, Pelin

    2009-01-01

    Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized as a chronic, painful, noninflammatory syndrome affecting the musculoskeletal system. In addition to pain, common co-morbid symptoms associated with FM include sleep disturbances, fatigue, morning stiffness, affective disorders, chronic daily headache, dyscognition, irritable bowel syndrome, and irritable bladder. Fibromyalgia is usually classified by application of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. Although these criteria are accepted among investigators who agree with the concept of fibromyalgia, they do so with some reservations. Tender points and widespread pain alone does not describe the esence of fibromyalgia. New diagnostic tools including either clinical or radiological components are studied to diminish these problems. Although various pharmacological solutions have been studied for treating fibromyalgia, no single drug or groups of drugs have proved to be useful in treating fibromyalgia patients. Recently, three drugs, pregabalin, duloxetine and milnacipran, were approved for the treatment of FM by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Novel therapeutic approaches to the management of FM include cannabinoids, sodium channel blockade and new generation antiepileptics. This review evaluates both new diagnostic tools, including clinical or radiological regimes, and tries to highlight the efficacy of medicinal and nonmedicinal treatments with new therapeutic approaches in the management of FM with a wide perspective. PMID:27789991

  6. Effects of antidepressants on alternations in serum cytokines and depressive-like behavior in mice after lipopolysaccharide administration.

    PubMed

    Ohgi, Yuta; Futamura, Takashi; Kikuchi, Tetsuro; Hashimoto, Kenji

    2013-02-01

    Accumulating evidence suggests that inflammation may play a role in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), possess anti-inflammatory effects in vitro. Here, we examined the effects of SSRIs and SNRIs on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation and depressive-like behavior in male mice. A single administration of LPS (0.5mg/kg, i.p.) increased serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and the anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-10 (IL-10) in mice. Pretreatment with SSRIs (fluoxetine and paroxetine), SNRIs (venlafaxine and duloxetine), or 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a precursor of serotonin, attenuated LPS-induced increases in TNFα, whereas it increased serum levels of IL-10, in mice treated with LPS. In the tail suspension test (TST), LPS increased the immobility time without affecting spontaneous locomotor activity, suggesting that LPS induced depressive-like behavior in mice. Treatment with fluoxetine (30 mg/kg) or paroxetine (10mg/kg) significantly shortened LPS-induced increases of immobility time. These results suggested that antidepressants exert anti-inflammatory effects in vivo, and that the serotonergic system may partially mediate these effects. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effects of antidepressants may help alleviate the symptoms of LPS-induced depression in mice. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayes, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2003-05-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials is a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables has been retrieved from the Clinical Studies knowledge area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: 2F5, 2G12, abetimus sodium, ABI-007, adalimumab, adefovir dipivoxil, AE-941, alefacept, altropane, aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid methyl ester, aminopterin, anakinra, aprinocarsen sodium, atazanavir, atlizumab, atomoxetine hydrochloride; B7-1 vaccine, bevacizumab, biricodar dicitrate, BMS-188667, brasofensine sulfate, bryostatin 1; cantuzumab mertansine, CHS-828, cinacalcet hydrochloride, cipamfylline, creatine, CVT-3146; darbepoetin alfa, DITPA, drotrecogin alfa (activated), duloxetine hydrochloride; edatrexate, efalizumab, ENMD-0997, epoetin, erlosamide, esomeprazole magnesium, etiprednol dicloacetate, etoricoxib, everolimus, ezetimibe; fampridine, fenretinide, FTY-720; IGF-I/IGFBP-3, IL-1 cytokine trap, ilodecakin, interferon beta, ISIS-104838, ISIS-2503, ISIS-5132, ivabradine hydrochloride; lafutidine, lanthanum carbonate, l-Arginine hydrochloride, LEA29Y, lerdelimumab, levetiracetam, levobupivacaine hydrochloride, levosimendan, lopinavir; melagatran, mibefradil hydrochloride, miglustat, morphine-6-glucuronide; nesiritide; omalizumab, omapatrilat; p24-VLP, parecoxib sodium, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, pegsunercept, pitavastatin calcium, plevitrexed, prasterone, pregabalin, PRO-2000, prucalopride; rapacuronium bromide, rebimastat, RGA-0853, rubitecan, ruboxistaurin mesilate hydrate, RWJ-67657; S-16020-2, sarizotan, SLV-306, stiripentol; TA-CIN, tenecteplase, teriparatide, tezacitabine, tipifarnib, trabectedin, troglitazone; valdecoxib, vardenafil; Z-338, ziconotide.

  8. Restoring Spinal Noradrenergic Inhibitory Tone Attenuates Pain Hypersensitivity in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Bing; Chen, Li-Hua

    2016-01-01

    In the present study, we investigated whether restoring descending noradrenergic inhibitory tone can attenuate pain in a PD rat model, which was established by stereotaxic infusion of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the bilateral striatum (CPu). PD rats developed thermal and mechanical hypersensitivity at the 4th week after surgery. HPLC analysis showed that NE content, but not dopamine or 5-HT, significantly decreased in lumbar spinal cord in PD rats. Additional noradrenergic depletion by injection of N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-bromobenzylamine (DSP-4) aggravated pain hypersensitivity in PD rats. At the 5th week after injection of 6-OHDA, systemic treatment with pharmacological norepinephrine (NE) precursor droxidopa (L-DOPS) or α2 adrenoceptor agonist clonidine significantly attenuated thermal and mechanical pain hypersensitivity in PD rats. Furthermore, application of norepinephrine (NE) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) reuptake inhibitors duloxetine, but not 5-HT selective reuptake inhibitors sertraline, significantly inhibited thermal and mechanical pain hypersensitivity in PD rats. Systemic administration of Madopar (L-DOPA) or the D2/D3 agonist pramipexole slightly inhibited the thermal, but not mechanical, hypersensitivity in PD rats. Thus, our study revealed that impairment of descending noradrenergic system may play a key role in PD-associated pain and restoring spinal noradrenergic inhibitory tone may serve as a novel strategy to manage PD-associated pain. PMID:27747105

  9. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayés, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2005-12-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials are a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity. prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: 131I-chTNT; Abatacept, adalimumab, alemtuzumab, APC-8015, aprepitant, atazanavir sulfate, atomoxetine hydrochloride, azimilide hydrochloride; Bevacizumab, bortezomib, bosentan, buserelin; Caspofungin acetate, CC-4047, ChAGCD3, ciclesonide, clopidogrel, curcumin, Cypher; Dabigatran etexilate, dapoxetine hydrochloride, darbepoetin alfa, darusentan, denosumab, DMXB-Anabaseine, drospirenone, drospirenone/estradiol, duloxetine hydrochloride, dutasteride; Edodekin alfa, efaproxiral sodium, elaidic acid-cytarabine, erlotinib hydrochloride, ertapenem sodium, escitalopram oxalate, eszopiclone, etonogestrel/testosterone decanoate, exenatide; Fulvestrant; Gefitinib, glycine, GVS-111; Homoharringtonine; ICC-1132, imatinib mesylate, iodine (I131) tositumomab, i.v. gamma-globulin; Levetiracetam, levocetirizine, lintuzumab, liposomal nystatin, lumiracoxib, lurtotecan; Manitimus, mapatumumab, melatonin, micafungin sodium, mycophenolic acid sodium salt; Oblimersen sodium, OGX-011, olmesartan medoxomil, omalizumab, omapatrilat, oral insulin; Parathyroid hormone (human recombinant), pasireotide, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, peginterferon alfa-2b/ribavirin, phVEGF-A165, pimecrolimus, pitavastatin calcium, plerixafor hydrochloride, posaconazole, pramlintide acetate, prasterone, pregabalin, PT-141; Quercetin; Ranolazine, rosuvastatin calcium, rubitecan, rupatadine fumarate; Sardomozide, sunitinib malate; Tadalafil, talactoferrin alfa, tegaserod maleate, telithromycin, testosterone transdermal patch, TH-9507, tigecycline, tiotropium bromide, tipifarnib, tocilizumab, treprostinil sodium; Valdecoxib, vandetanib, vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, voriconazole. Copyright 2005 Prous Science. All rights reserved.

  10. Mechanisms and Management of Diabetic Painful Distal Symmetrical Polyneuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Tesfaye, Solomon; Boulton, Andrew J.M.; Dickenson, Anthony H.

    2013-01-01

    Although a number of the diabetic neuropathies may result in painful symptomatology, this review focuses on the most common: chronic sensorimotor distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN). It is estimated that 15–20% of diabetic patients may have painful DSPN, but not all of these will require therapy. In practice, the diagnosis of DSPN is a clinical one, whereas for longitudinal studies and clinical trials, quantitative sensory testing and electrophysiological assessment are usually necessary. A number of simple numeric rating scales are available to assess the frequency and severity of neuropathic pain. Although the exact pathophysiological processes that result in diabetic neuropathic pain remain enigmatic, both peripheral and central mechanisms have been implicated, and extend from altered channel function in peripheral nerve through enhanced spinal processing and changes in many higher centers. A number of pharmacological agents have proven efficacy in painful DSPN, but all are prone to side effects, and none impact the underlying pathophysiological abnormalities because they are only symptomatic therapy. The two first-line therapies approved by regulatory authorities for painful neuropathy are duloxetine and pregabalin. α-Lipoic acid, an antioxidant and pathogenic therapy, has evidence of efficacy but is not licensed in the U.S. and several European countries. All patients with DSPN are at increased risk of foot ulceration and require foot care, education, and if possible, regular podiatry assessment. PMID:23970715

  11. Antidepressant-Induced Hyponatremia in Older Adults.

    PubMed

    Viramontes, Terry S; Truong, Havan; Linnebur, Sunny A

    2016-03-01

    To describe the prevalence of hyponatremia in older adults related to antidepressive agents and identify potential alternative options in older adults with a low-baseline serum sodium concentration and/or when a patient has experienced hyponatremia as a result of taking an antidepressant. A PubMed search was conducted on November 10, 2015. Search terms included: antidepressive agents, antidepressive agents second-generation, bupropion, citalopram, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, hyponatremia, milnacipran, mirtazapine, paroxetine, reboxetine, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, sertraline, trazodone, venlafaxine, and vilazodone. Filters included English language. A search of product labeling was also conducted. Out of 363 results, 124 publications were identified and reviewed along with 11 additional references. Publications were chosen based on relevance to the review: case reports of patients 60 years of age or older or clinical investigations of the association between hyponatremia and antidepressants in older adults. Hyponatremia was counted as an adverse effect if an antidepressant was the likely cause of hyponatremia, and hyponatremia was resolved after withdrawal. Antidepressant-induced hyponatremia in older adults is fairly common. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and mirtazapine were implicated in the majority of the case reports and clinical studies evaluating older adults. Bupropion, trazodone, and tricyclic antidepressants were implicated less often in the same literature. Given its unique mechanism of action, bupropion may be the most appropriate antidepressant for older adults at risk for antidepressant-induced hyponatremia.

  12. [Pharmacologic therapy of depression during pregnancy].

    PubMed

    Bellantuono, Cesario; Migliarese, Giovanni; Imperadore, Giuseppe

    2006-02-01

    The pregnancy is considered to be relatively high risk period for depressive episodes in women, particularly for those with pre-existing affective disorders. Epidemiological studies indicate that between 10% to 16% of pregnant women fulfil the diagnostic criteria for major depression and on average 20% is affected by an anxiety disorder. Pharmacological treatment of depression during pregnancy, however, brings with it certainties and dilemmas. It has been reported that untreated depression is associated with impaired feto-placental function, premature delivery, miscarriage, low fetal growth and perinatal unwanted effects. On the other hand, the use of antidepressant drugs in pregnancy might be at risk of major malformations (teratogenesis), neonatal toxicity, especially withdrawal symptoms and neuropsychological-behavioural impairment. In addition, the abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants, because of fear for adverse fetal effects, exposes women to serious clinical problems, in particular the disease relapse. A number of reviews indicates that among antidepressant drugs, the older SSRIs (in particular fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram) seem to be avoided of teratogenic risks; for these reasons such drugs are nowadays considered of choice for the treatment of depression during pregnancy. Less information is available for other drugs, including triciclycs, venlafaxine, mirtazapine, bupropion, escitalopram and duloxetine. Withdrawal symptoms have been reported for all antidepressants; these symptoms, however, were self-limiting in majority of cases and had a favourable outcome. Inconclusive findings emerge, so far, from the few longitudinal studies focusing on the long-term neurodevelopment outcome in children.

  13. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayés, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2006-10-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials are a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issues focuses on the following selection of drugs: (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate, (-)-gossypol, 2-deoxyglucose, 3,4-DAP, 7-monohydroxyethylrutoside; Ad5CMV-p53, adalimumab, adefovir dipivoxil, ADH-1, alemtuzumab, aliskiren fumarate, alvocidib hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid methyl ester, amrubicin hydrochloride, AN-152, anakinra, anecortave acetate, antiasthma herbal medicine intervention, AP-12009, AP-23573, apaziquone, aprinocarsen sodium, AR-C126532, AR-H065522, aripiprazole, armodafinil, arzoxifene hydrochloride, atazanavir sulfate, atilmotin, atomoxetine hydrochloride, atorvastatin, avanafil, azimilide hydrochloride; Bevacizumab, biphasic insulin aspart, BMS-214662, BN-83495, bortezomib, bosentan, botulinum toxin type B; Caspofungin acetate, cetuximab, chrysin, ciclesonide, clevudine, clofarabine, clopidogrel, CNF-1010, CNTO-328, CP-751871, CX-717, Cypher; Dapoxetine hydrochloride, darifenacin hydrobromide, dasatinib, deferasirox, dextofisopam, dextromethorphan/quinidine sulfate, diclofenac, dronedarone hydrochloride, drotrecogin alfa (activated), duloxetine hydrochloride, dutasteride; Edaravone, efaproxiral sodium, emtricitabine, entecavir, eplerenone, epratuzumab, erlotinib hydrochloride, escitalopram oxalate, etoricoxib, ezetimibe, ezetimibe/simvastatin; Finrozole, fipamezole hydrochloride, fondaparinux sodium, fulvestrant; Gabapentin enacarbil, gaboxadol, gefitinib, gestodene, ghrelin (human); Human insulin, human papillomavirus vaccine; Imatinib mesylate, immunoglobulin intravenous (human), indiplon, insulin detemir, insulin glargine, insulin glulisine, intranasal insulin, istradefylline, i.v. gamma-globulin, ivabradine hydrochloride, ixabepilone; LA-419, lacosamide, landiolol, lanthanum carbonate, lidocaine/prilocaine, liposomal cisplatin, lutropin alfa; Matuzumab, MBP(82-98), mecasermin, MGCD-0103, MMR-V, morphine hydrochloride, mycophenolic acid sodium salt; Natalizumab, NCX-4016, neridronic acid, nesiritide, nilotinib, NSC-330507; O6-benzylguanine, olanzapine/fluoxetine hydrochloride, omalizumab; Panitumumab, parathyroid hormone (human recombinant), parecoxib sodium, PEG-filgrastim, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, pegvisomant, pemetrexed disodium, perospirone hydrochloride, pexelizumab, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, pneumococcal 7-valent conjugate vaccine, posaconazole, pramiconazole, prasugrel, pregabalin, prilocaine; rAAV-GAD65, raclopride, rasagiline mesilate, retapamulin, rosuvastatin calcium, rotigotine, rufinamide; SarCNU, SB-743921, SHL-749, sirolimus-eluting stent, sitaxsentan sodium, sorafenib; TachoSil, tadalafil, talampanel, Taxus, tegaserod maleate, telithromycin, telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, temsirolimus, tenatoprazole, teriflunomide, tetrathiomolybdate, ticilimumab, timcodar dimesilate, tipifarnib, tirapazamine, TPI, tramiprosate, trifluridine/TPI, trimethoprim; Ularitide, Urocortin 2; Valdecoxib, valganciclovir hydrochloride, valproate magnesium, valspodar, vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, vitespen, vofopitant hydrochloride, volociximab, vorinostat; Yttrium 90 (90Y) ibritumomab tiuxetan; Ziprasidone hydrochloride, zotarolimus, zotarolimus-eluting stent.

  14. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayes, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2005-01-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials are a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate; ACP-103, Ad.Egr.TNF.11 D, adalimumab, AF-IL 12, AIDSVAX gp120 B/B, alefacept, alemtuzumab, a-Galactosylceramide, ALVAC vCP 1452, alvimopan hydrate, alvocidib hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid methyl ester, anakinra, anidulafungin, antarelix, aprepitant, aripiprazole, arsenic sulfide, asoprisnil, atazanavir sulfate, atomoxetine hydrochloride; Bevacizumab, bimatoprost, BMS-184476, bortezomib, bosentan, botulinum toxin type B, BrachySil, brivudine; Caffeine, calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate, cannabidiol, capsaicin for injection, caspofungin acetate, CC-4047, cetuximab, CGP-36742, clofazimine, CpG-7909, Cypher; Darbepoetin alfa, dextromethorphan/quinidine sulfate, dimethylfumarate, dronabinol/cannabidiol, drotrecogin alfa (activated), duloxetine hydrochloride, dutasteride; Ecogramostim, efalizumab, eletriptan, emtricitabine, enfuvirtide, eplerenone, esomeprazole magnesium, estradiol acetate, eszopiclone, etoricoxib, exenatide, ezetimibe, ezetimibe/simvastatin; Fampridine, fondaparinux sodium, fosamprenavir calcium; Gefitinib, GPI-0100; hA 20, HTU-PA, human insulin, HuOKT 3 gamma 1(Ala 234-Ala 235), hyaluronic acid; Icatibant, imatinib mesylate, Indiplon, INKP-100, INKP-102, iodine (I131) tositumomab, istradefylline, IV gamma-globulin, ivabradine hydrochloride, ixabepilone; Lacosamide, landiolol, lanthanum carbonate, lasofoxifene tartrate, LB-80380, lenalidomide, lidocaine/tetracaine, linezolid, liposomal doxorubicin, liposomal vincristine sulfate, lopinavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, lumiracoxib, lurtotecan; Maribavir, morphine glucuronide, MVA-5 T 4; NBI-56418, NCX-4016, nesiritide, nicotine conjugate vaccine, NSC-330507; Oglufanide, omalizumab, oxipurinol; Palifermin, palonosetron hydrochloride, parecoxib sodium, PEG-filgrastim, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, peginterferon alfa-2b/ribavirin, PEGylated interferon alfacon-1, perospirone hydrochloride, pimecrolimus, pixantrone maleate, plerixafor hydrochloride, PowderJect lidocaine, pradefovir mesylate, prasterone, pregabalin, Prostvac VF, PT-141, PTC-124, pyridoxamine; QS-21, quercetin; R-126638, R-411, ralfinamide, rasagiline mesilate, rF-PSA, RG-2077, rhThrombin, rimonabant hydrochloride, rofecoxib, rosuvastatin calcium, rotigotine hydrochloride, rV-PSA; S-18886, S-303, seocalcitol, SGN-40, sitaxsentan sodium, SPP-301, St. John's Wort extract; Tadalafil, taxus, telithromycin, tenatoprazole, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, testosterone MDTS, testosterone transdermal patch, tgAAC-09, TH-9507, thioacetazone, tipifarnib, TQ-1011, trabectedin, travoprost, trimethoprim; Valdecoxib, valganciclovir hydrochloride, valopicitabine, voriconazole; Xcellerated T cells. (c) 2005 Prous Science. All rights reserved.

  15. Desvenlafaxine in major depressive disorder: an evidence-based review of its place in therapy

    PubMed Central

    Lieberman, Daniel Z; Massey, Suena H

    2010-01-01

    Introduction: Desvenlafaxine, the active metabolite of venlafaxine, is a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) recently approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It is one of only three medications in this class available in the United States. Aims: The objective of this article is to review the published evidence for the safety and efficacy of desvenlafaxine, and to compare it to other antidepressants to delineate its role in the treatment of depression. Evidence review: At the recommended dose of 50 mg per day the rate of response and remission was similar to other SNRIs, as was the adverse effect profile. The rate of discontinuation was no greater than placebo, and a discontinuation syndrome was not observed at this dose. Higher doses were not associated with greater efficacy, but they did lead to more side effects, and the use of a taper prior to discontinuation. The most common side effects reported were insomnia, somnolence, dizziness, and nausea. Some subjects experienced clinically significant blood pressure elevation. Place in therapy: Like duloxetine, desvenlafaxine inhibits the reuptake of both norepinephrine and serotonin at the starting dose. Dual reuptake inhibitors have been shown to have small but statistically significantly greater rates of response and remission compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and they have also shown early promise in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Desvenlafaxine may prove to be a valuable treatment option by expanding the limited number of available dual reuptake inhibitors. PMID:20694066

  16. Sleep, chronic pain, and opioid risk for apnea.

    PubMed

    Marshansky, Serguei; Mayer, Pierre; Rizzo, Dorrie; Baltzan, Marc; Denis, Ronald; Lavigne, Gilles J

    2017-07-19

    Pain is an unwelcome sleep partner. Pain tends to erode sleep quality and alter the sleep restorative process in vulnerable patients. It can contribute to next-day sleepiness and fatigue, affecting cognitive function. Chronic pain and the use of opioid medications can also complicate the management of sleep disorders such as insomnia (difficulty falling and/or staying asleep) and sleep-disordered breathing (sleep apnea). Sleep problems can be related to various types of pain, including sleep headache (hypnic headache, cluster headache, migraine) and morning headache (transient tension type secondary to sleep apnea or to sleep bruxism or tooth grinding) as well as periodic limb movements (leg and arm dysesthesia with pain). Pain and sleep management strategies should be personalized to reflect the patient's history and ongoing complaints. Understanding the pain-sleep interaction requires assessments of: i) sleep quality, ii) potential contributions to fatigue, mood, and/or wake time functioning; iii) potential concomitant sleep-disordered breathing (SDB); and more importantly; iv) opioid use, as central apnea may occur in at-risk patients. Treatments include sleep hygiene advice, cognitive behavioral therapy, physical therapy, breathing devices (continuous positive airway pressure - CPAP, or oral appliance) and medications (sleep facilitators, e.g., zolpidem; or antidepressants, e.g., trazodone, duloxetine, or neuroleptics, e.g., pregabalin). In the presence of opioid-exacerbated SDB, if the dose cannot be reduced and normal breathing restored, servo-ventilation is a promising avenue that nevertheless requires close medical supervision. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. The comparative evidence basis for the efficacy of second-generation antidepressants in the treatment of depression in the US: A Bayesian meta-analysis of Food and Drug Administration reviews.

    PubMed

    Monden, Rei; Roest, Annelieke M; van Ravenzwaaij, Don; Wagenmakers, Eric-Jan; Morey, Richard; Wardenaar, Klaas J; de Jonge, Peter

    2018-08-01

    Studies have shown similar efficacy of different antidepressants in the treatment of depression. Data of phase-2 and -3 clinical-trials for 16 antidepressants (levomilnacipran, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, escitalopram, vortioxetine, mirtazapine, venlafaxine XR, sertraline, fluoxetine, citalopram, paroxetine CR, nefazodone, bupropion, vilazodone), approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression between 1987 and 2016, were extracted from the FDA reviews that were used to evaluate efficacy prior to marketing approval, which are less liable to reporting biases. Meta-analytic Bayes factors, which quantify the strength of evidence for efficacy, were calculated. In addition, posterior pooled effect-sizes were calculated and compared with classical estimations. The resulted Bayes factors showed that the evidence load for efficacy varied strongly across antidepressants. However, all tested drugs except for bupropion and vilazodone showed strong evidence for their efficacy. The posterior effect-size distributions showed variation across antidepressants, with the highest pooled estimated effect size for venlafaxine followed by paroxetine, and the lowest for bupropion and vilazodone. Not all published trials were included in the study. The results illustrate the importance of considering both the effect size and the evidence-load when judging the efficacy of a treatment. In doing so, the currently employed Bayesian approach provided clear insights on top of those gained with traditional approaches. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Antidepressants in Primary Care: A Multiple Treatment Comparison Meta-Analysis and Cost-Effectiveness Model

    PubMed Central

    Ramsberg, Joakim; Asseburg, Christian; Henriksson, Martin

    2012-01-01

    Objective To determine effectiveness and cost-effectiveness over a one-year time horizon of pharmacological first line treatment in primary care for patients with moderate to severe depression. Design A multiple treatment comparison meta-analysis was employed to determine the relative efficacy in terms of remission of 10 antidepressants (citalopram, duloxetine escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine mirtazapine, paroxetine, reboxetine, sertraline and venlafaxine). The estimated remission rates were then applied in a decision-analytic model in order to estimate costs and quality of life with different treatments at one year. Data Sources Meta-analyses of remission rates from randomised controlled trials, and cost and quality-of-life data from published sources. Results The most favourable pharmacological treatment in terms of remission was escitalopram with an 8- to 12-week probability of remission of 0.47. Despite a high acquisition cost, this clinical effectiveness translated into escitalopram being both more effective and having a lower total cost than all other comparators from a societal perspective. From a healthcare perspective, the cost per QALY of escitalopram was €3732 compared with venlafaxine. Conclusion Of the investigated antidepressants, escitalopram has the highest probability of remission and is the most effective and cost-effective pharmacological treatment in a primary care setting, when evaluated over a one year time-horizon. Small differences in remission rates may be important when assessing costs and cost-effectiveness of antidepressants. PMID:22876296

  19. Shortage of psychotropic medications in community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia: Causes and solutions.

    PubMed

    Al-Ruthia, Yazed Sulaiman; Mansy, Wael; Barasin, Mohammad; Ghawaa, Yazeed Mohammad; AlSultan, Mohammed; Alsenaidy, Mohammad A; Alhawas, Solaiman; AlGhadeer, Sultan

    2017-07-01

    Background: Patients with mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety, who seek medical care in private psychiatric clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have recently expressed concerns to doctors about difficulty in filling psychotropic medications, such as Amitriptyline and Aripiprazole, at retail community pharmacies. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a shortage of some commonly prescribed psychotropic medications in retail community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia, and if so, to explore the possible reasons behind the shortage of these medications. Methods: The availability of 28 commonly prescribed psychotropic medications was checked in multiple retail community pharmacies in 4 different regions of Saudi Arabia. Further, potential reasons behind the shortage of some psychotropic medications in retail community pharmacies were also explored. Results: Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Aripiprazole, Bupropion, Buspirone, Duloxetine, Haloperidol, Hydroxyzine, Lithium, Prochlorperazine, Procyclidine, Promethazine, Thioridazine, Trazodone, and Trifluoperazine were unavailable in over half of the 248 community pharmacies surveyed. Four possible reasons behind the shortage of these medications were reported by 31 pharmacists working in different retail community pharmacies' purchasing departments, with a majority (58.06%) reporting the primary reason for a shortage of these medications that they are slow-moving items with low profit margins. Conclusions: The findings of this study should expedite the reform process in both the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) to publish and enforce an essential list of medications for retail community pharmacies, which should include the most commonly prescribed psychotropic medications.

  20. Inferring distinct mechanisms in the absence of subjective differences: Placebo and centrally acting analgesic underlie unique brain adaptations.

    PubMed

    Tétreault, Pascal; Baliki, Marwan N; Baria, Alexis T; Bauer, William R; Schnitzer, Thomas J; Apkarian, A Vania

    2018-05-01

    Development and maintenance of chronic pain is associated with structural and functional brain reorganization. However, few studies have explored the impact of drug treatments on such changes. The extent to which long-term analgesia is related to brain adaptations and its effects on the reversibility of brain reorganization remain unclear. In a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial, we contrasted pain relief (3-month treatment period), and anatomical (gray matter density [GMD], assessed by voxel-based morphometry) and functional connectivity (resting state fMRI nodal degree count [DC]) adaptations, in 39 knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients (22 females), randomized to duloxetine (DLX, 60 mg once daily) or placebo. Pain relief was equivalent between treatment types. However, distinct circuitry (GMD and DC) could explain pain relief in each group: up to 85% of variance for placebo analgesia and 49% of variance for DLX analgesia. No behavioral measures (collected at entry into the study) could independently explain observed analgesia. Identified circuitry were outside of nociceptive circuitry and minimally overlapped with OA-abnormal or placebo response predictive brain regions. Mediation analysis revealed that changes in GMD and DC can influence each other across remote brain regions to explain observed analgesia. Therefore, we can conclude that distinct brain mechanisms underlie DLX and placebo analgesia in OA. The results demonstrate that even in the absence of differences in subjective pain relief, pharmacological treatments can be differentiated from placebo based on objective brain biomarkers. This is a crucial step to untangling mechanisms and advancing personalized therapy approaches for chronic pain. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  1. Effect of spinal monoaminergic neuronal system dysfunction on pain threshold in rats, and the analgesic effect of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Tamano, Ryuta; Ishida, Mitsuhiro; Asaki, Toshiyuki; Hasegawa, Minoru; Shinohara, Shunji

    2016-02-26

    Dysfunction in the central serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) systems cause depression and pain. Descending spinal pain modulatory pathways are important in the analgesic mechanisms of antidepressants, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). While many non-clinical studies have demonstrated the roles of central monoaminergic systems in pain, there is little evidence to illuminate the direct contribution of spinal descending pain modulatory systems independently of depressive-like behavior. To examine the effects of dysfunction of spinal monoaminergic systems on pain sensitivity, we established a rat chronic pain model by administering lumbar-intrathecal reserpine to minimize its influence on brain. Lumbar-intrathecal reserpine evoked persistent mechanical hypersensitivity and corresponding reductions in spinal 5-HT and NE concentrations (from 767.2 to 241.6ng/g and from 455.9 to 41.7ng/g, respectively after reserpine 30nmol). Lumbar-intrathecal reserpine did not deplete brain monoamines or bring about depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test. Spinal monoamines depletion-induced pain sensitivity was ameliorated by lumbar-intrathecal administration of the SNRIs (duloxetine and milnacipran) in dose-dependent manners. These suggest that increased pain sensitivity could be induced by dysfunction solely of the descending pain modulatory system, regardless of depressive-like behavior, and lumbar-intrathecal administration of SNRIs could ameliorate the pain sensitivity which might be mediated by affecting the descending pain modulatory system in the spinal cord, not via their antidepressant effects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Tomillero, A; Moral, M A

    2009-04-01

    (+)-Dapoxetine hydrochloride, [(123)I]-BZA, 9-Aminocamptothecin; Abacavir sulfate/lamivudine, Adalimumab, Adefovir dipivoxil, Alemtuzumab, Alvocidib hydrochloride, Ambrisentan, Amsilarotene, Anacetrapib, Anakinra, Apricitabine, Aripiprazole, Arsenic trioxide, Atazanavir sulfate, Atazanavir/ritonavir, Atrasentan, Azacitidine; Banoxantrone, Bazedoxifene acetate, Bevacizumab, Bexarotene, Biphasic insulin aspart, Bortezomib, Bosentan, Bromfenac; Cachectin, Calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate, Canakinumab, Carfilzomib, CAT-354, CCX-282, Certolizumab pegol, Cetuximab, Choline fenofibrate, Clevudine, Clofarabine, CNTO-328, Corifollitropin alfa, Crofelemer; Daptomycin, Darbepoetin alfa, Darunavir, Dasatinib, Decitabine, Deferasirox, Denosumab, Duloxetine hydrochloride, Dutasteride; Emtricitabine, Enfuvirtide, Entecavir, Epoetin zeta, Erlotinib hydrochloride, Escitalopram oxalate, Eslicarbazepine acetate, Eszopiclone, Etravirine, Everolimus, Exenatide, Ezetimibe, Ezetimibe/simvastatin; Farglitazar, Febuxostat, Fosamprenavir calcium, FX-06; Gabapentin enacarbil, Gefitinib; HIVIS DNA; Imatinib mesylate, INCB- 18424, Indacaterol, Inotuzumab ozogamicin, Insulin detemir; JNJ-26854165; Lacosamide, Landiolol, Laromustine, Lenalidomide, Liposomal doxorubicin, L-NAME, Lopinavir, Lopinavir/ritonavir, Lumiracoxib; Maraviroc, Mepolizumab, Methoxy polyethylene glycol- epoetin-beta, Miglustat, MK-0493, MVA-CMDR, Mycophenolic acid sodium salt; Natalizumab, Nepafenac, Neratinib, Neridronic acid, Nesiritide, Nilotinib hydrochloride monohydrate; Olmesartan medoxomil, Omacetaxine mepesuccinate, Omalizumab; Paclitaxel poliglumex, Palifermin, Patupilone, Pegfilgrastim, Peginterferon alfa-2a, Peginterferon alfa-2b, Peginterferon alfa-2b/ ribavirin, Pemetrexed disodium, PHA-848125, Pitavastatin calcium, Posaconazole, Povidone-iodine liposome complex, Prasugrel, Pregabalin, Prucalopride; Raltegravir potassium, Retigabine, Revaprazan hydrochloride, rhFSH, Rilpivirine, Rivaroxaban, Romidepsin, Rosuvastatin calcium, RWJ-676070; SAR-109659, Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate, Sorafenib, Stavudine/Lamivudine/Nevirapine, Sunitinib malate; Tadalafil, Telaprevir, Telbivudine, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine/efavirenz, Teriparatide, Tigecycline, Tiotropium bromide, Tipifarnib, Tipranavir, Tocilizumab, Trifluridine/TPI; UP-780; Vandetanib, Vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, Vatalanib succinate, Vitespen, Vorinostat; Yttrium 90 (90Y) ibritumomab tiuxetan; Zoledronic acid monohydrate. Copyright 2009 Prous Science, S.A.U. or its licensors. All rights reserved.

  3. Treating chronic non-cancer pain in older people--more questions than answers?

    PubMed

    Gaskell, Helen; Derry, Sheena; Moore, R Andrew

    2014-09-01

    There is little evidence specifically relating to drug treatments for pain in older people, but much can be extrapolated from what we already know. The evidence about drug treatments for chronic non-cancer pain is changing, driven by major improvements in understanding of clinical trial analysis and by the adoption of patient-centered outcomes of proven economic benefit. There is clear evidence of lack of useful effect, or insufficient evidence of effect for a number of commonly used drugs, including paracetamol, topical rubefacients, low concentration topical capsaicin, and for strong opioids in chronic non-cancer pain. In musculoskeletal pain there is evidence of efficacy for NSAIDs, tramadol, and tapentadol, and in neuropathic pain for duloxetine, pregabalin, and gabapentin, with weak evidence for amitriptyline. The new perspective is of drugs that work well in a minority of patients, but hardly at all in the remainder. The goal of treatment is large reductions in pain, by 50% or more. This outcome, and only this outcome, is associated with large benefits in terms of improved sleep, reduced depression, and large gains in function and quality of life. It is not possible to predict which patient will benefit from which drug, but early success or failure appears to be predictive of long-term success or failure. The emphasis is on stopping treatments that do not work and switching to other drugs in the same or different class, so that any potential future risk of treatment is balanced by very large and immediate benefit. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Amitriptyline induces brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA expression through ERK-dependent modulation of multiple BDNF mRNA variants in primary cultured rat cortical astrocytes and microglia.

    PubMed

    Hisaoka-Nakashima, Kazue; Kajitani, Naoto; Kaneko, Masahiro; Shigetou, Takahiro; Kasai, Miho; Matsumoto, Chie; Yokoe, Toshiki; Azuma, Honami; Takebayashi, Minoru; Morioka, Norimitsu; Nakata, Yoshihiro

    2016-03-01

    A significant role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been previously implicated in the therapeutic effect of antidepressants. To ascertain the contribution of specific cell types in the brain that produce BDNF following antidepressant treatment, the effects of the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline on rat primary neuronal, astrocytic and microglial cortical cultures were examined. Amitriptyline increased the expression of BDNF mRNA in astrocytic and microglial cultures but not neuronal cultures. Antidepressants with distinct mechanisms of action, such as clomipramine, duloxetine and fluvoxamine, also increased BDNF mRNA expression in astrocytic and microglial cultures. There are multiple BDNF mRNA variants (exon I, IIA, IV and VI) expressed in astrocytes and microglia and the variant induced by antidepressants has yet to be elaborated. Treatment with antidepressants increased the expression of exon I, IV and VI in astrocyte and microglia. Clomipramine alone significantly upregulated expression of exon IIA. The amitriptyline-induced expression of both total and individual BDNF mRNA variants (exon I, IV and VI) were blocked by MEK inhibitor U0126, indicating MEK/ERK signaling is required in the expression of BDNF. These findings indicate that non-neural cells are a significant target of antidepressants and further support the contention that glial production of BDNF is crucial role in the therapeutic effect of antidepressants. The current data suggest that targeting of glial function could lead to the development of antidepressants with a truly novel mechanism of action. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Oral health impacts of medications used to treat mental illness.

    PubMed

    Cockburn, N; Pradhan, A; Taing, M W; Kisely, S; Ford, P J

    2017-12-01

    Many psychotropic medications affect oral health. This review identified oral side effects for antidepressant, antipsychotic, anticonvulsant, antianxiety and sedative drugs that are recommended in Australia for the management of common mental illnesses and provides recommendations to manage these side-effects. The Australian Therapeutic Guidelines and the Australian Medicines Handbook were searched for medications used to treat common mental health conditions. For each medication, the generic name, class, and drug company reported side-effects were extracted from the online Monthly Index of Medical Specialties (eMIMs) and UpToDate databases. Meyler's Side Effect of Drugs Encyclopaedia was used to identify additional oral adverse reactions to these medications. Fifty-seven drugs were identified: 23 antidepressants, 22 antipsychotics or mood stabilisers, and 12 anxiolytic or sedative medications. Xerostomia (91%) the most commonly reported side effect among all classes of medications of the 28 identified symptoms. Other commonly reported adverse effects included dysguesia (65%) for antidepressants, and tardive dyskinesia (94%) or increased salivation (78%) for antipsychotic medications. While xerostomia has often been reported as a common adverse effect of psychotropic drugs, this review has identified additional side effects including dysguesia from antidepressants and tardive dyskinesia and increased salivation from antipsychotics. Clinicians should consider oral consequences of psychotropic medication in addition to other side-effects when prescribing. For antidepressants, this would mean choosing duloxetine, agomelatine and any of the serotonin re-uptake inhibitors except sertraline. In the case of antipsychotics and mood stabilisers, atypical agents have less oral side effects than older alternatives. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Antidepressants Are Effective in Decreasing Neuropathic Pain After SCI: A Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Mehta, Swati; Guy, Stacey; Lam, Tracey; Teasell, Robert; Loh, Eldon

    2015-01-01

    To systematically review and assess the effectiveness and safety of antidepressants for neuropathic pain among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). A systematic search was conducted using multiple databases for relevant articles published from 1980 to April 2014. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving antidepressant treatment of neuropathic pain with ≥ 3 individuals and ≥ 50% of study population with SCI were included. Two independent reviewers selected studies based on inclusion criteria and then extracted data. Pooled analysis using Cohen's d to calculate standardized mean difference, standard error, and 95% confidence interval for primary (pain) and other secondary outcomes was conducted. Four RCTs met inclusion criteria. Of these, 2 studies assessed amitriptyline, 1 trazadone, and 1 duloxetine among individuals with neuropathic SCI pain. A small effect was seen in the effectiveness of antidepressants in decreasing pain among individuals with SCI (standardized mean difference = 0.34 ± 0.15; 95% CI, 0.05-0.62; P = .02). A number needed to treat of 3.4 for 30% or more pain relief was found by pooling 2 studies. Of these, significantly higher risk of experiencing constipation (risk ratio [RR] = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.09-2.78; P = .02) and dry mouth (RR = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.04-1.85; P = .02) was found amongst individuals receiving antidepressant treatment compared to those in the control group. The current meta-analysis demonstrates that antidepressants are effective in reducing neuropathic SCI pain. However, this should be interpreted with caution due to the limited number of studies. Further evaluation of long-term therapeutic options may be required.

  7. Treating Diabetic Neuropathy: Present Strategies and Emerging Solutions

    PubMed Central

    Javed, Saad; Alam, Uazman; Malik, Rayaz A.

    2015-01-01

    Diabetic peripheral neuropathies (DPN) are a heterogeneous group of disorders caused by neuronal dysfunction in patients with diabetes. They have differing clinical courses, distributions, fiber involvement (large or small), and pathophysiology. These complications are associated with increased morbidity, distress, and healthcare costs. Approximately 50% of patients with diabetes develop peripheral neuropathy, and the projected rise in the global burden of diabetes is spurring an increase in neuropathy. Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN) with painful diabetic neuropathy, occurring in around 20% of diabetes patients, and diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) are the most common manifestations of DPN. Optimal glucose control represents the only broadly accepted therapeutic option though evidence of its benefit in type 2 diabetes is unclear. A number of symptomatic treatments are recommended in clinical guidelines for the management of painful DPN, including antidepressants such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, the γ-aminobutyric acid analogues gabapentin and pregabalin, opioids, and topical agents such as capsaicin. However, monotherapy is frequently not effective in achieving complete resolution of pain in DPN. There is a growing need for head-to-head studies of different single-drug and combination pharmacotherapies. Due to the ubiquity of autonomic innervation in the body, DAN causes a plethora of symptoms and signs affecting cardiovascular, urogenital, gastrointestinal, pupillomotor, thermoregulatory, and sudomotor systems. The current treatment of DAN is largely symptomatic, and does not correct the underlying autonomic nerve deficit. A number of novel potential candidates, including erythropoietin analogues, angiotensin II receptor type 2 antagonists, and sodium channel blockers are currently being evaluated in phase II clinical trials. PMID:26676662

  8. Neuropathic cancer pain: What we are dealing with? How to manage it?

    PubMed Central

    Esin, Ece; Yalcin, Suayib

    2014-01-01

    Cancer pain is a serious health problem, and imposes a great burden on the lives of patients and their families. Pain can be associated with delay in treatment, denial of treatment, or failure of treatment. If the pain is not treated properly it may impair the quality of life. Neuropathic cancer pain (NCP) is one of the most complex phenomena among cancer pain syndromes. NCP may result from direct damage to nerves due to acute diagnostic/therapeutic interventions. Chronic NCP is the result of treatment complications or malignancy itself. Although the reason for pain is different in NCP and noncancer neuropathic pain, the pathophysiologic mechanisms are similar. Data regarding neuropathic pain are primarily obtained from neuropathic pain studies. Evidence pertaining to NCP is limited. NCP due to chemotherapeutic toxicity is a major problem for physicians. In the past two decades, there have been efforts to standardize NCP treatment in order to provide better medical service. Opioids are the mainstay of cancer pain treatment; however, a new group of therapeutics called coanalgesic drugs has been introduced to pain treatment. These coanalgesics include gabapentinoids (gabapentin, pregabalin), antidepressants (tricyclic antidepressants, duloxetine, and venlafaxine), corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonists, and cannabinoids. Pain can be encountered throughout every step of cancer treatment, and thus all practicing oncologists must be capable of assessing pain, know the possible underlying pathophysiology, and manage it appropriately. The purpose of this review is to discuss neuropathic pain and NCP in detail, the relevance of this topic, clinical features, possible pathology, and treatments of NCP. PMID:24790459

  9. Central sensitization and neuropathic features of ongoing pain in a rat model of advanced osteoarthritis

    PubMed Central

    Havelin, Joshua; Imbert, Ian; Cormier, Jennifer; Allen, Joshua; Porreca, Frank; King, Tamara

    2015-01-01

    Osteoarthritis (OA) pain is most commonly characterized by movement-triggered joint pain. However, in advanced disease, OA pain becomes persistent, ongoing and resistant to treatment with NSAIDs. The mechanisms underlying ongoing pain in advanced OA are poorly understood. We recently showed that intra-articular (i.a.) injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) into the rat knee joint produces concentration-dependent outcomes. Thus, a low dose of i.a. MIA produces NSAID-sensitive weight asymmetry without evidence of ongoing pain while a high i.a. MIA dose produces weight asymmetry and NSAID-resistant ongoing pain. In the present studies, palpation of the ipsilateral hindlimb of rats treated 14 days previously with high, but not low, doses of i.a. MIA produced FOS expression in the spinal dorsal horn. Inactivation of descending pain facilitatory pathways by microinjection of lidocaine within the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) induced conditioned place preference (CPP) selectively in rats treated with the high dose of MIA. CPP to intra-articular lidocaine was blocked by pretreatment with duloxetine (30 mg/kg, i.p. at −30 min). These observations are consistent with the likelihood of a neuropathic component of OA that elicits ongoing, NSAID resistant pain and central sensitization that is mediated, in part, by descending modulatory mechanisms. This model provides a basis for exploration of underlying mechanisms promoting neuropathic components of OA pain and for the identification of mechanisms that may guide drug discovery for treatment of advanced OA pain without the need for joint replacement. PMID:26694132

  10. TRPA1 channel mediates organophosphate-induced delayed neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Ding, Qiang; Fang, Sui; Chen, Xueqin; Wang, Youxin; Li, Jian; Tian, Fuyun; Xu, Xiang; Attali, Bernard; Xie, Xin; Gao, Zhaobing

    2017-01-01

    The organophosphate-induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN), often leads to paresthesias, ataxia and paralysis, occurs in the late-stage of acute poisoning or after repeated exposures to organophosphate (OP) insecticides or nerve agents, and may contribute to the Gulf War Syndrome. The acute phase of OP poisoning is often attributed to acetylcholinesterase inhibition. However, the underlying mechanism for the delayed neuropathy remains unknown and no treatment is available. Here we demonstrate that TRPA1 channel (Transient receptor potential cation channel, member A1) mediates OPIDN. A variety of OPs, exemplified by malathion, activates TRPA1 but not other neuronal TRP channels. Malathion increases the intracellular calcium levels and upregulates the excitability of mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons in vitro. Mice with repeated exposures to malathion also develop local tissue nerve injuries and pain-related behaviors, which resembles OPIDN. Both the neuropathological changes and the nocifensive behaviors can be attenuated by treatment of TRPA1 antagonist HC030031 or abolished by knockout of Trpa1 gene. In the classic hens OPIDN model, malathion causes nerve injuries and ataxia to a similar level as the positive inducer tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP), which also activates TRPA1 channel. Treatment with HC030031 reduces the damages caused by malathion or tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate. Duloxetine and Ketotifen, two commercially available drugs exhibiting TRPA1 inhibitory activity, show neuroprotective effects against OPIDN and might be used in emergency situations. The current study suggests TRPA1 is the major mediator of OPIDN and targeting TRPA1 is an effective way for the treatment of OPIDN. PMID:28894590

  11. Evidence for Neuroplastic Compensation in the Cerebral Cortex of Persons with Depressive Illness

    PubMed Central

    Bansal, Ravi; Hellerstein, David J.; Peterson, Bradley S.

    2017-01-01

    We yoked anatomical brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging to a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) of antidepressant medication for 10-week’s duration in patients with dysthymia. The RCT study design mitigated ascertainment bias by randomizing patients to receive either duloxetine or placebo, and it supported true causal inferences about treatment effects on the brain by controlling treatment assignment experimentally. We acquired 121 anatomical scans: at baseline and endpoint in 41 patients, and once in 39 healthy controls. At baseline, patients had diffusely thicker cortices than did healthy participants, and patients who had thicker cortices had proportionately less severe symptoms. During the trial, symptoms improved significantly more in medication- compared with placebo-treated patients; concurrently, thicknesses in medication-treated patients declined toward values in healthy controls, but they increased slightly, away from control values, in placebo-treated patients. Changes in symptom severity during the trial mediated the association of treatment assignment with the change in thickness, suggesting that the beneficial effects of medication on symptom severity were at least partially responsible for normalizing cortical thickness. Together our findings suggest that baseline cortical hypertrophy in medication-free patients likely represented a compensatory, neuroplastic response that attenuated symptom severity. Medication then reduced symptoms and lessened the need for compensation, thereby normalizing thickness. This is to the best of our knowledge the first study to report within an RCT a differential change in cortical morphology during medication treatment for depressive illness and the first to provide within an RCT in vivo evidence for the presence of neuroanatomical plasticity in humans. PMID:28265119

  12. A Pilot Study: Cardiac Parameters in Children Receiving New-Generation Antidepressants.

    PubMed

    Uchida, Mai; Spencer, Andrea E; Kenworthy, Tara; Chan, James; Fitzgerald, Maura; Rosales, Ana Maria; Kagan, Elana; Saunders, Alexandra; Biederman, Joseph

    2017-06-01

    Because of concerns about potential associations between high doses of citalopram and QTc prolongation in adults, this study examined whether such associations are operant in children. We hypothesized that therapeutic doses of nontricyclic antidepressant medications (non-TCAs) prescribed to children would be cardiovascularly safe. The sample consisted of 49 psychiatrically referred children and adolescents 6 to 17 years old of both sexes treated with a non-TCA (citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, bupropion, duloxetine, venlafaxine, mirtazapine). To standardize the doses of different antidepressants, we converted doses of individual medicines into "citalopram equivalent doses" (CEDs) based on dosing recommendation for individual antidepressants. Correlation analysis was carried out to compare the continuous and weight-based CED to variables of interest. A QTc grouping was defined as normal, borderline, or abnormal, and CED was compared across QTc groupings using linear regression. An antidepressant dosage group was defined as low or high dose, and a t test compared variables of interest across dosage groups. No significant associations were found between total or weight-corrected CEDs of any antidepressant examined and QTc or any other electrocardiogram or blood pressure parameters. In patients taking citalopram or escitalopram, a significant correlation was found between PR interval and total daily dose, which disappeared when weight-based doses were used or when corrected by age. Although limited by a relatively small sample size, these results suggest that therapeutic doses of non-TCA antidepressants when used in children do not seem to be associated with prolonged QTc interval or other adverse cardiovascular effects.

  13. Pelvic floor muscle training added to another active treatment versus the same active treatment alone for urinary incontinence in women.

    PubMed

    Ayeleke, Reuben Olugbenga; Hay-Smith, E Jean C; Omar, Muhammad Imran

    2015-11-03

    Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is a first-line conservative treatment for urinary incontinence in women. Other active treatments include: physical therapies (e.g. vaginal cones); behavioural therapies (e.g. bladder training); electrical or magnetic stimulation; mechanical devices (e.g. continence pessaries); drug therapies (e.g. anticholinergics (solifenacin, oxybutynin, etc.) and duloxetine); and surgical interventions including sling procedures and colposuspension. This systematic review evaluated the effects of adding PFMT to any other active treatment for urinary incontinence in women To compare the effects of pelvic floor muscle training combined with another active treatment versus the same active treatment alone in the management of women with urinary incontinence. We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register, which contains trials identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, MEDLINE in process, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO ICTRP and handsearching of journals and conference proceedings (searched 5 May 2015), and CINAHL (January 1982 to 6 May 2015), and the reference lists of relevant articles. We included randomised or quasi-randomised trials with two or more arms, of women with clinical or urodynamic evidence of stress urinary incontinence, urgency urinary incontinence or mixed urinary incontinence. One arm of the trial included PFMT added to another active treatment; the other arm included the same active treatment alone. Two review authors independently assessed trials for eligibility and methodological quality and resolved any disagreement by discussion or consultation with a third party. We extracted and processed data in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Other potential sources of bias we incorporated into the 'Risk of bias' tables were ethical approval, conflict of interest and funding source. Thirteen trials met the inclusion criteria, comprising women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) or mixed urinary incontinence (MUI); they compared PFMT added to another active treatment (585 women) with the same active treatment alone (579 women). The pre-specified comparisons were reported by single trials, except bladder training, which was reported by two trials, and electrical stimulation, which was reported by three trials. However, only two of the three trials reporting electrical stimulation could be pooled, as one of the trials did not report any relevant data. We considered the included trials to be at unclear risk of bias for most of the domains, predominantly due to the lack of adequate information in a number of trials. This affected our rating of the quality of evidence. The majority of the trials did not report the primary outcomes specified in the review (cure or improvement, quality of life) or measured the outcomes in different ways. Effect estimates from small, single trials across a number of comparisons were indeterminate for key outcomes relating to symptoms, and we rated the quality of evidence, using the GRADE approach, as either low or very low. More women reported cure or improvement of incontinence in two trials comparing PFMT added to electrical stimulation to electrical stimulation alone, in women with SUI, but this was not statistically significant (9/26 (35%) versus 5/30 (17%); risk ratio (RR) 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79 to 5.38). We judged the quality of the evidence to be very low. There was moderate-quality evidence from a single trial investigating women with SUI, UUI or MUI that a higher proportion of women who received a combination of PFMT and heat and steam generating sheet reported a cure compared to those who received the sheet alone: 19/37 (51%) versus 8/37 (22%) with a RR of 2.38, 95% CI 1.19 to 4.73). More women reported cure or improvement of incontinence in another trial comparing PFMT added to vaginal cones to vaginal cones alone, but this was not statistically significant (14/15 (93%) versus 14/19 (75%); RR 1.27, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.71). We judged the quality of the evidence to be very low. Only one trial evaluating PFMT when added to drug therapy provided information about adverse events (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.60; very low-quality evidence).With regard to condition-specific quality of life, there were no statistically significant differences between women (with SUI, UUI or MUI) who received PFMT added to bladder training and those who received bladder training alone at three months after treatment, on either the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-Revised scale (mean difference (MD) -5.90, 95% CI -35.53 to 23.73) or on the Urogenital Distress Inventory scale (MD -18.90, 95% CI -37.92 to 0.12). A similar pattern of results was observed between women with SUI who received PFMT plus either a continence pessary or duloxetine and those who received the continence pessary or duloxetine alone. In all these comparisons, the quality of the evidence for the reported critical outcomes ranged from moderate to very low. This systematic review found insufficient evidence to state whether or not there were additional effects by adding PFMT to other active treatments when compared with the same active treatment alone for urinary incontinence (SUI, UUI or MUI) in women. These results should be interpreted with caution as most of the comparisons were investigated in small, single trials. None of the trials in this review were large enough to provide reliable evidence. Also, none of the included trials reported data on adverse events associated with the PFMT regimen, thereby making it very difficult to evaluate the safety of PFMT.

  14. Combination pharmacotherapy for the treatment of fibromyalgia in adults.

    PubMed

    Thorpe, Joelle; Shum, Bonnie; Moore, R Andrew; Wiffen, Philip J; Gilron, Ian

    2018-02-19

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic widespread pain condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Current pharmacotherapies are often ineffective and poorly tolerated. Combining different agents could provide superior pain relief and possibly also fewer side effects. To assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of combination pharmacotherapy compared to monotherapy or placebo, or both, for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain in adults. We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Embase to September 2017. We also searched reference lists of other reviews and trials registries. Double-blind, randomised controlled trials comparing combinations of two or more drugs to placebo or other comparators, or both, for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain. From all studies, we extracted data on: participant-reported pain relief of 30% or 50% or greater; patient global impression of clinical change (PGIC) much or very much improved or very much improved; any other pain-related outcome of improvement; withdrawals (lack of efficacy, adverse events), participants experiencing any adverse event, serious adverse events, and specific adverse events (e.g. somnolence and dizziness). The primary comparison was between combination and one or all single-agent comparators. We also assessed the evidence using GRADE and created a 'Summary of findings' table. We identified 16 studies with 1474 participants. Three studies combined a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a benzodiazepine (306 participants); two combined amitriptyline with fluoxetine (89 participants); two combined amitriptyline with a different agent (92 participants); two combined melatonin with an antidepressant (164 participants); one combined carisoprodol, paracetamol (acetaminophen), and caffeine (58 participants); one combined tramadol and paracetamol (acetaminophen) (315 participants); one combined malic acid and magnesium (24 participants); one combined a monoamine oxidase inhibitor with 5-hydroxytryptophan (200 participants); and one combined pregabalin with duloxetine (41 participants). Six studies compared the combination of multiple agents with each component alone and with inactive placebo; three studies compared combination pharmacotherapy with each individual component but did not include an inactive placebo group; two studies compared the combination of two agents with only one of the agents alone; and three studies compared the combination of two or more agents only with inactive placebo.Heterogeneity among studies in terms of class of agents evaluated, specific combinations used, outcomes reported, and doses given prevented any meta-analysis. None of the combinations of drugs found provided sufficient data for analysis compared with placebo or other comparators for our preferred outcomes. We therefore provide a narrative description of results. There was no or inadequate evidence in any comparison for primary and secondary outcomes. Two studies only reported any primary outcomes of interest (patient-reported pain relief of 30%, or 50%, or greater). For each 'Risk of bias' item, only half or fewer of studies had unequivocal low risk of bias. Small size and selective reporting were common as high risk of bias.Our GRADE assessment was therefore very low for primary outcomes of pain relief of 30% or 50% or greater, PGIC much or very much improved or very much improved, any pain-related outcome, participants experiencing any adverse event, any serious adverse event, or withdrawing because of an adverse event.Three studies found some evidence that combination pharmacotherapy reduced pain compared to monotherapy; these trials tested three different combinations: melatonin and amitriptyline, fluoxetine and amitriptyline, and pregabalin and duloxetine. Adverse events experienced by participants were not serious, and where they were reported (in 12 out of 16 studies), all participants experienced them, regardless of treatment. Common adverse events were nausea, dizziness, somnolence, and headache. There are few, large, high-quality trials comparing combination pharmacotherapy with monotherapy for fibromyalgia, consequently limiting evidence to support or refute the use of combination pharmacotherapy for fibromyalgia.

  15. Major Depressive Disorder in recovery and neuropsychological functioning: effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and dual inhibitor depression treatments on residual cognitive deficits in patients with Major Depressive Disorder in recovery.

    PubMed

    Herrera-Guzmán, Ixchel; Gudayol-Ferré, Esteve; Herrera-Abarca, Jorge E; Herrera-Guzmán, Daniel; Montelongo-Pedraza, Pedro; Padrós Blázquez, Ferran; Peró-Cebollero, Maribel; Guàrdia-Olmos, Joan

    2010-06-01

    Cognitive disturbances in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) could persist beyond the symptomatic phase of the illness. However, the works addressing this topic did not usually account for the possible impact of medication on the cognitive functions of depressed patients. The present study aims to investigate whether MDD patients in remission treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) or dual serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) show cognitive deficits, to study whether the same patients suffer neuropsychological disturbances when they are unmedicated and in recovery phase, and if the previous pharmacological treatment used to achieve the remission of MDD clinical symptoms had any effect in the profile of these patients' cognitive performance in the recovery phase. Thirty-six subjects with MDD treated with escitalopram and 37 depressed patients with duloxetine were compared both in remission phase and 24 weeks later, when they were unmedicated and in recovery phase. They were also compared, in both moments, to 37 healthy subjects. The control subjects showed a broader better cognitive performance than MDD patients in both measurement moments, but several cognitive functions improved over time. Also, the patients treated with SNRI performed better in memory tests than the SNRI-treated patients in remission phase, and in recovery phase. Our sample size is somewhat small, and we followed our patients only for 6months after treatment. Cognitive functions improve over time in patients with MDD beyond the remission phase, and the antidepressant treatment class used in acute depressive phase could influence his/her memory improvement. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Characteristics, resource utilization and safety profile of patients prescribed with neuropathic pain treatments: a real-world evidence study on general practices in Europe - the role of the lidocaine 5% medicated plaster.

    PubMed

    Katz, Pablo; Pegoraro, Valeria; Liedgens, Hiltrud

    2017-08-01

    To identify characteristics, resource utilization, and safety profile of patients prescribed with lidocaine 5% medicated plaster, pregabalin, gabapentin, amitriptyline and duloxetine when experiencing pain in the real-world setting of general practitioners (GPs) in Europe. Retrospective analysis on real world data from IMS Health Longitudinal Patient Database. Patients with at least one prescription of the drugs of interest during 2014 were selected and those with a non-neuropathic pain-related diagnosis were excluded. Patients' demographic and clinical characteristics, resource utilization data and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) as described in the leaflet were extracted. The association between treatments and ADR occurrence was evaluated applying multivariate logistic models. A total of 70,515 patients were selected from Italy, Germany, the UK, Spain and Belgium. Lidocaine 5% medicated plaster patients were the oldest in Italy, the UK and Spain and the most health impaired in Italy, Spain and Belgium. No relevant differences in the number of co-prescriptions, specialist visits, examinations and hospitalizations were found. Significantly less lidocaine 5% plasters patients experienced ADRs, with odds ratios in favor of lidocaine 5% medicated plasters ranging from 3.41 (p = .036) to 52.33 (p < .001). Evidence from daily clinical practice in GP settings agrees with the findings from more controlled clinical-trial settings, with lidocaine 5% medicated plaster patients showing a better safety profile, but also a comparable level of resource utilization. A possible re-evaluation of the scientific value coming from this retrospective study in building up a diagnostic as well as a therapeutic algorithm is suggested.

  17. Diffuse noxious inhibitory controls and nerve injury: restoring an imbalance between descending monoamine inhibitions and facilitations.

    PubMed

    Bannister, Kirsty; Patel, Ryan; Goncalves, Leonor; Townson, Louisa; Dickenson, Anthony H

    2015-09-01

    Diffuse noxious inhibitory controls (DNICs) utilize descending inhibitory controls through poorly understood brain stem pathways. The human counterpart, conditioned pain modulation, is reduced in patients with neuropathy aligned with animal data showing a loss of descending inhibitory noradrenaline controls together with a gain of 5-HT3 receptor-mediated facilitations after neuropathy. We investigated the pharmacological basis of DNIC and whether it can be restored after neuropathy. Deep dorsal horn neurons were activated by von Frey filaments applied to the hind paw, and DNIC was induced by a pinch applied to the ear in isoflurane-anaesthetized animals. Spinal nerve ligation was the model of neuropathy. Diffuse noxious inhibitory control was present in control rats but abolished after neuropathy. α2 adrenoceptor mechanisms underlie DNIC because the antagonists, yohimbine and atipamezole, markedly attenuated this descending inhibition. We restored DNIC in spinal nerve ligated animals by blocking 5-HT3 descending facilitations with the antagonist ondansetron or by enhancing norepinephrine modulation through the use of reboxetine (a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, NRI) or tapentadol (μ-opioid receptor agonist and NRI). Additionally, ondansetron enhanced DNIC in normal animals. Diffuse noxious inhibitory controls are reduced after peripheral nerve injury illustrating the central impact of neuropathy, leading to an imbalance in descending excitations and inhibitions. Underlying noradrenergic mechanisms explain the relationship between conditioned pain modulation and the use of tapentadol and duloxetine (a serotonin, NRI) in patients. We suggest that pharmacological strategies through manipulation of the monoamine system could be used to enhance DNIC in patients by blocking descending facilitations with ondansetron or enhancing norepinephrine inhibitions, so possibly reducing chronic pain.

  18. A rapid, Web-based method for obtaining patient views on effects and side-effects of antidepressants.

    PubMed

    Rizo, Carlos; Deshpande, Amol; Ing, Alton; Seeman, Neil

    2011-04-01

    This project was undertaken to develop a rapid method for obtaining a widespread sample of patient views on the efficacy and side-effects of antidepressants. A Web-based method is described for rapidly and objectively obtaining patient views on the effects and side-effects of treatment with antidepressants. The method entails a systematized search of many URLs (Uniform Resource Locators, or Web page addresses), using keywords and phrases to extract the named drug and symptom that are reliably relevant to the medication being taken by the individual reporting the experience online. Unwanted medical conditions (e.g., cancer) are excluded. Three successive searches of thousands of Web pages revealed a cumulative total of 835 "mentions" of patient experience on duloxetine, 756 for venlafaxine, 637 for citalopram, 636 for sertraline, 559 for paroxetine, 457 for fluoxetine, 318 for desvenlafaxine, 289 for fluvoxamine, and 210 for mirtazapine, in association with various symptoms. A comparison of the associated symptoms for each of the antidepressants found that the prevalence of the combined factor of fatigue, drowsiness, tiredness or lethargy ranged from 6.4±0.8% down to 2.9±0.15% of the mentions, where the S.E. was derived from three repeats of the Web-based analysis. The prevalence of dizziness or vertigo ranged from 7.6±0.8% down to 1.9±0.3% of the mentions. Given the increasing number of patient narratives about drug experiences on open-access Web forums, this rapid novel method will have increasing utility in post-marketing surveillance and in comparing the effects of psychiatric medications. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Antidepressant pharmaceuticals in two U.S. effluent-impacted streams: Occurrence and fate in water and sediment and selective uptake in fish neural tissue

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Schultz, M.M.; Furlong, E.T.; Kolpin, D.W.; Werner, S.L.; Schoenfuss, H.L.; Barber, L.B.; Blazer, V.S.; Norris, D.O.; Vajda, A.M.

    2010-01-01

    Antidepressant pharmaceuticals are widely prescribed in the United States; release of municipal wastewater effluent is a primary route introducing them to aquatic environments, where little is known about their distribution and fate. Water, bed sediment, and brain tissue from native white suckers (Catostomus commersoni)were collected upstream and atpoints progressively downstream from outfalls discharging to two effluentimpacted streams, Boulder Creek (Colorado) and Fourmile Creek (Iowa). A liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method was used to quantify antidepressants, including fluoxetine, norfluoxetine (degradate), sertraline, norsertraline (degradate), paroxetine, Citalopram, fluvoxamine, duloxetine, venlafaxine, and bupropion in all three sample matrices. Antidepressants were not present above the limit of quantitation in water samples upstream from the effluent outfalls but were present at points downstream at ng/L concentrations, even at the farthest downstream sampling site 8.4 km downstream from the outfall. The antidepressants with the highest measured concentrations in both streams were venlafaxine, bupropion, and Citalopram and typically were observed at concentrations of at least an order of magnitude greater than the more commonly investigated antidepressants fluoxetine and sertraline. Concentrations of antidepressants in bed sediment were measured at ng/g levels; venlafaxine and fluoxetine were the predominant chemicals observed. Fluoxetine, sertraline, and their degradates were the principal antidepressants observed in fish brain tissue, typically at low ng/g concentrations. Aqualitatively different antidepressant profile was observed in brain tissue compared to streamwater samples. This study documents that wastewater effluent can be a point source of antidepressants to stream ecosystems and that the qualitative composition of antidepressants in brain tissue from exposed fish differs substantially from the compositions observed in streamwater and sediment, suggesting selective uptake. ?? 2010 American Chemical Society.

  20. Cost-utility evaluation of vortioxetine in patients with Major Depressive Disorder experiencing inadequate response to alternative antidepressants in the United Kingdom.

    PubMed

    Young, A H; Evitt, L; Brignone, M; Diamand, F; Atsou, K; Campbell, R; Cure, S; Danchenko, N

    2017-08-15

    Patients frequently require several lines of therapy for treatment of major depressive episodes. This economic analysis details the management of patients who responded inadequately due to lack of efficacy or intolerability to two previous antidepressants in the UK. The model included a decision tree and a Markov component. Health states considered in the decision tree were remission, response, no response, withdrawal due to adverse events, relapse, recovery, and recurrence. The time horizon was 24 months. Patients were on third-line treatment for up to a 3-month acute phase and a 6-month maintenance phase. As third-line efficacy data were not available, inputs were calculated by adjusting original second-line data to third-line based on proportionate reductions observed in STAR*D. Equivalent efficacy was assumed for all comparators. Healthcare resource use and utilities were based on UK estimates. Vortioxetine was a cost-effective treatment option at a threshold of £20,000/QALY vs. escitalopram, citalopram, sertraline, and was associated with more health benefits, less costs (was dominant) versus relevant third-line comparators venlafaxine and duloxetine. Agomelatine was found not to be a cost-effective option. The 22-month maintenance phase treatment scenario results were similar to the 6-month base case. Third-line efficacy data were not available. This highlights the need for studies in patients receiving third-line treatment. This model provides an overview for the management of patients receiving third-line treatment where limited evidence currently exists. Vortioxetine, with its novel mechanism of action, is expected to be a dominant treatment option versus relevant comparators in the UK. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  1. The noradrenergic paradox: implications in the management of depression and anxiety

    PubMed Central

    Montoya, Alonso; Bruins, Robert; Katzman, Martin A; Blier, Pierre

    2016-01-01

    Both major depressive disorder and the anxiety disorders are major causes of disability and markedly contribute to a significant global burden of the disease worldwide. In part because of the significant socioeconomic burden associated with these disorders, theories have been developed to specifically build clinical treatment approaches. One such theory, the monoaminergic hypothesis, has led to the development of several generations of selective and nonselective inhibitors of transporters of serotonin and norepinephrine, with the goal of augmenting monoaminergic transmission. These efforts have led to considerable success in the development of antidepressant therapeutics. However, there is a strong correlation between enhanced noradrenergic activity and fear and anxiety. Consequently, some physicians have expressed concerns that the same enhanced noradrenergic activity that alleviates depression could also promote anxiety. The fact that the serotonergic and noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors are successfully used in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders seems paradoxical. This review was undertaken to determine if any clinical evidence exists to show that serotonergic and noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors can cause anxiety. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched, and the results limited to randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies performed in nongeriatric adults and with clear outcome measures were reported. Based on these criteria, a total of 52 studies were examined. Patients in these studies suffered from depression or anxiety disorders (generalized and social anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder). The large majority of these studies employed venlafaxine or duloxetine, and the remainder used tri-cyclic antidepressants, atomoxetine, or reboxetine. All the studies reported clinically significant alleviation of depressive and/or anxious symptoms by these therapeutics. In none of these studies was anxiety a treatment-emergent adverse effect. This review argues against the impression that enhanced generalized noradrenergic activity promotes the emergence of anxiety. PMID:27042068

  2. PRIORITIZING FUTURE RESEACH ON OFF-LABEL PRESCRIBING: RESULTS OF A QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION

    PubMed Central

    Walton, Surrey M.; Schumock, Glen T.; Lee, Ky-Van; Alexander, G. Caleb; Meltzer, David; Stafford, Randall S.

    2015-01-01

    Background Drug use for indications not approved by the Food and Drug Administration exceeds 20% of prescribing. Available compendia indicate that a minority of off-label uses are well supported by evidence. Policy makers, however, lack information to identify where systematic reviews of the evidence or other research would be most valuable. Methods We developed a quantitative model for prioritizing individual drugs for future research on off-label uses. The base model incorporated three key factors, 1) the volume of off-label use with inadequate evidence, 2) safety, and 3) cost and market considerations. Nationally representative prescribing data were used to estimate the number of off-label drug uses by indication from 1/2005 through 6/2007 in the United States, and these indications were then categorized according to the adequacy of scientific support. Black box warnings and safety alerts were used to quantify drug safety. Drug cost, date of market entry, and marketing expenditures were used to quantify cost and market considerations. Each drug was assigned a relative value for each factor, and the factors were then weighted in the final model to produce a priority score. Sensitivity analyses were conducted by varying the weightings and model parameters. Results Drugs that were consistently ranked highly in both our base model and sensitivity analyses included quetiapine, warfarin, escitalopram, risperidone, montelukast, bupropion, sertraline, venlafaxine, celecoxib, lisinopril, duloxetine, trazodone, olanzapine, and epoetin alfa. Conclusion Future research into off-label drug use should focus on drugs used frequently with inadequate supporting evidence, particularly if further concerns are raised by known safety issues, high drug cost, recent market entry, and extensive marketing. Based on quantitative measures of these factors, we have prioritized drugs where targeted research and policy activities have high potential value. PMID:19025425

  3. Effectiveness of group acceptance and commitment therapy for fibromyalgia: a 6-month randomized controlled trial (EFFIGACT study).

    PubMed

    Luciano, Juan V; Guallar, José A; Aguado, Jaume; López-Del-Hoyo, Yolanda; Olivan, Bárbara; Magallón, Rosa; Alda, Marta; Serrano-Blanco, Antoni; Gili, Margalida; Garcia-Campayo, Javier

    2014-04-01

    In the last decade, there has been burgeoning interest in the effectiveness of third-generation psychological therapies for managing fibromyalgia (FM) symptoms. The present study examined the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on functional status as well as the role of pain acceptance as a mediator of treatment outcomes in FM patients. A total of 156 patients with FM were enrolled at primary health care centers in Zaragoza, Spain. The patients were randomly assigned to a group-based form of ACT (GACT), recommended pharmacological treatment (RPT; pregabalin + duloxetine), or wait list (WL). The primary end point was functional status (measured with the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, FIQ). Secondary end points included pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, pain, anxiety, depression, and health-related quality of life. The differences between groups were calculated by linear mixed-effects (intention-to-treat approach) and mediational models through path analyses. Overall, GACT was statistically superior to both RPT and WL immediately after treatment, and improvements were maintained at 6months with medium effect sizes in most cases. Immediately after treatment, the number needed to treat for 20% improvement compared to RPT was 2 (95% confidence interval 1.2-2.0), for 50% improvement 46, and for achieving a status of no worse than mild impaired function (FIQ total score <39) also 46. Unexpectedly, 4 of the 5 tested path analyses did not show a mediation effect. Changes in pain acceptance only mediated the relationship between study condition and health-related quality of life. These findings are discussed in relation to previous psychological research on FM treatment. Copyright © 2013 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. The serum protein levels of the tPA-BDNF pathway are implicated in depression and antidepressant treatment.

    PubMed

    Jiang, H; Chen, S; Li, C; Lu, N; Yue, Y; Yin, Y; Zhang, Y; Zhi, X; Zhang, D; Yuan, Y

    2017-04-04

    Evidence demonstrates that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD). Precursor-BDNF (proBDNF) and mature BDNF (mBDNF) have opposing biological effects in neuroplasticity, and the tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA)/plasmin system is crucial in the cleavage processing of proBDNF to mBDNF. However, very little is known about the role of the tPA-BDNF pathway in MDD. We examined serum protein concentrations in the tPA-BDNF pathway, including tPA, BDNF, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), proBDNF and p75NTR, obtained from 35 drug-free depressed patients before and after 8 weeks of escitalopram (mean 12.5 mg per day) or duloxetine (mean 64 mg per day) treatment and 35 healthy controls using sandwich ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) methods. Serum tPA and BDNF and the ratio of BDNF/proBDNF were significantly lower in the MDD patients than in controls, whereas TrkB, proBDNF and its receptor p75NTR were higher. After 8 weeks of treatment, tPA, BDNF and proBDNF and the BDNF/proBDNF ratio were reversed, but p75NTR was higher than baseline, and TrkB was not significantly changed. tPA, BDNF, TrkB, proBDNF and p75NTR all yielded fairly good or excellent diagnostic performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) >0.8 or 0.9). Combination of these five proteins demonstrated much better diagnostic effectiveness (AUC: 0.977) and adequate sensitivity and specificity of 88.1% and 92.7%, respectively. Our results suggest that the tPA-BDNF lysis pathway may be implicated in the pathogenesis of MDD and the mechanisms underlying antidepressant therapeutic action. The combination of tPA, BDNF, TrkB, proBDNF and p75NTR may provide a diagnostic biomarker panel for MDD.

  5. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayes, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2006-03-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials are a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: 131I-labetuzumab; Abacavir sulfate, abatacept, adalimumab, ademetionine, adjuvanted influenza vaccine, alefacept, alemtuzumab, amlodipine, amphotericin B, anakinra, aripiprazole, aspirin, axitinib; Betamethasone dipropionate, bevacizumab, biphasic insulin aspart, bortezomib, bosentan, botulinum toxin type B, BQ-123; Calcium folinate, canertinib dihydrochloride, carboplatin, carmustine, cetirizine hydrochloride, cetuximab, cholecalciferol, ciclesonide, ciclosporin, cinacalcet hydrochloride, cisplatin, clarithromycin, clofazimine, cold-adapted influenza vaccine trivalent, CpG-7909; Darbepoetin alfa, darifenacin hydrobromide, DB-289, desloratadine, Dexamet, dicycloverine hydrochloride, dimethyl fumarate, docetaxel, dolastatin 10, drospirenone, drospirenone/estradiol, duloxetine hydrochloride; Ecogramostim, edotecarin, efaproxiral sodium, enalapril maleate, epoetin beta, epoprostenol sodium, epratuzumab, erlotinib hydrochloride, escitalopram oxalate, estradiol, etanercept; Fluconazole, fludarabine phosphate, fluorouracil; Gefitinib, gemcitabine, Ghrelin (human), glibenclamide, glimepiride, GTI-2040; Haloperidol, human insulin, hydrocortisone probutate; Imatinib mesylate, indisulam, influenza vaccine, inhaled insulin, insulin aspart, insulin glulisine, insulin lispro, irinotecan, ispronicline; Lamivudine, lamivudine/zidovudine/abacavir sulfate, lapatinib, letrozole, levocetirizine, lomustine, lonafarnib, lumiracoxib;Magnesium sulfate, MD-1100, melphalan, metformin hydrochloride, methotrexate, metoclopramide hydrochloride, mitiglinide calcium hydrate, monophosphoryl lipid A, montelukast sodium, motexafin gadolinium, mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolic acid sodium salt; Nitisinone; Omalizumab, omapatrilat, ONYX-015, oxaliplatin; Paclitaxel, paclitaxel nanoparticles, panitumumab, parathyroid hormone (human recombinant), peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, peginterferon alfa-2b/ribavirin, pertuzumab, phosphatidylcholine-rich phospholipid mixture, pimecrolimus, pioglitazone hydrochloride, pramlintide acetate, prasterone; QR-333; Ranelic acid distrontium salt, ranolazine, rasagiline mesilate, RFB4(dsFv)-PE38, ribavirin, rifabutin, risperidone, rituximab, rofecoxib, rosiglitazone maleate, rosiglitazone maleate/metformin hydrochloride, rotavirus vaccine; S-236, salmeterol xinafoate, sarizotan hydrochloride, sildenafil, sildenafil citrate, sunitinib malate; Tadalafil, tegaserod maleate, temozolomide, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, teriparatide, tiotropium bromide, tipifarnib, trabectedin, treprostinil sodium; Vandetanib, vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, vatalanib succinate, vinflunine, virosome influenza vaccine, voriconazole; Zidovudine. (c) 2006 Prous Science. All rights reserved.

  6. Cost Recommendation under Uncertainty in IQWiG's Efficiency Frontier Framework.

    PubMed

    Corro Ramos, Isaac; Lhachimi, Stefan K; Gerber-Grote, Andreas; Al, Maiwenn J

    2017-02-01

    The National Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) employs an efficiency frontier (EF) framework to facilitate setting maximum reimbursable prices for new interventions. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) is used when yes/no reimbursement decisions are sought based on a fixed threshold. In the IQWiG framework, an additional layer of complexity arises as the EF itself may vary its shape in each PSA iteration, and thus the willingness-to-pay, indicated by the EF segments, may vary. To explore the practical problems arising when, within the EF approach, maximum reimbursable prices for new interventions are sought through PSA. When the EF is varied in a PSA, cost recommendations for new interventions may be determined by the mean or the median of the distances between each intervention's point estimate and each EF. Implications of using these metrics were explored in a simulation study based on the model used by IQWiG to assess the cost-effectiveness of 4 antidepressants. Depending on the metric used, cost recommendations can be contradictory. Recommendations based on the mean can also be inconsistent. Results (median) suggested that costs of duloxetine, venlafaxine, mirtazapine, and bupropion should be decreased by €131, €29, €12, and €99, respectively. These recommendations were implemented and the analysis repeated. New results suggested keeping the costs as they were. The percentage of acceptable PSA outcomes increased 41% on average, and the uncertainty associated to the net health benefit was significantly reduced. The median of the distances between every intervention outcome and every EF is a good proxy for the cost recommendation that would be given should the EF be fixed. Adjusting costs according to the median increased the probability of acceptance and reduced the uncertainty around the net health benefit distribution, resulting in a reduced uncertainty for decision makers.

  7. Adoption of new drugs by physicians: a survival analysis.

    PubMed

    Garjón, Francisco Javier; Azparren, Ana; Vergara, Iván; Azaola, Borja; Loayssa, Jose Ramón

    2012-03-08

    New drugs often substitute others cheaper and with a risk-benefit balance better established. Our aim was to analyse the diffusion of new drugs during the first months of use, examining the differences between family physicians and specialists. Prescription data were obtained of cefditoren, duloxetine, etoricoxib, ezetimibe, levocetirizine, olmesartan, pregabalin and tiotropium 36 months after their launching. We obtained the monthly number of prescriptions per doctor and the number prescribers of each drug by specialty. After discarding those with less than 10 prescriptions during this period, physicians were defined as adopters if the number of prescriptions was over the 25th percentile for each drug and level (primary or secondary care). The diffusion of each drug was studied by determining the number of adopter family physicians throughout the study period. Among the group of adopters, we compared the month of the first prescription by family physicians to that of other specialists using the Kaplan-Meier method. The adoption of the drugs in primary care follows an exponential diffusion curve that reaches a plateau at month 6 to 23. Tiotropium was the most rapidly and widely adopted drug. Cefditoren spread at a slower rate and was the least adopted. The diffusion of etoricoxib was initially slowed down due to administrative requirements for its prescription. The median time of adoption in the case of family physicians was 4-6 months. For each of the drugs, physicians of a specialty other than family physicians adopted it first. The number of adopters of a new drug increases quickly in the first months and reaches a plateau. The number of adopter family physicians varies considerably for different drugs. The adoption of new drugs is faster in specialists. The time of adoption should be considered to promote rational prescribing by providing timely information about new drugs and independent medical education.

  8. Adoption of new drugs by physicians: a survival analysis

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background New drugs often substitute others cheaper and with a risk-benefit balance better established. Our aim was to analyse the diffusion of new drugs during the first months of use, examining the differences between family physicians and specialists. Methods Prescription data were obtained of cefditoren, duloxetine, etoricoxib, ezetimibe, levocetirizine, olmesartan, pregabalin and tiotropium 36 months after their launching. We obtained the monthly number of prescriptions per doctor and the number prescribers of each drug by specialty. After discarding those with less than 10 prescriptions during this period, physicians were defined as adopters if the number of prescriptions was over the 25th percentile for each drug and level (primary or secondary care). The diffusion of each drug was studied by determining the number of adopter family physicians throughout the study period. Among the group of adopters, we compared the month of the first prescription by family physicians to that of other specialists using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results The adoption of the drugs in primary care follows an exponential diffusion curve that reaches a plateau at month 6 to 23. Tiotropium was the most rapidly and widely adopted drug. Cefditoren spread at a slower rate and was the least adopted. The diffusion of etoricoxib was initially slowed down due to administrative requirements for its prescription. The median time of adoption in the case of family physicians was 4-6 months. For each of the drugs, physicians of a specialty other than family physicians adopted it first. Conclusions The number of adopters of a new drug increases quickly in the first months and reaches a plateau. The number of adopter family physicians varies considerably for different drugs. The adoption of new drugs is faster in specialists. The time of adoption should be considered to promote rational prescribing by providing timely information about new drugs and independent medical education. PMID:22401169

  9. Clinical characteristics of 150 consecutive fibromyalgia patients attending an Australian public hospital clinic.

    PubMed

    Guymer, Emma K; Maruff, Paul; Littlejohn, Geoffrey O

    2012-08-01

    To describe clinical characteristics of fibromyalgia in an Australian population. Data was collected from 150 consecutive patients with clinical features of fibromyalgia seen in an Australian public hospital clinic. Demographic information and clinical characteristics were recorded. Significant correlations between clinical characteristics were identified, then used in multiple regression analyses to identify factors influencing outcome in physical function, pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance. Clinical features in groups who were or were not using different treatment strategies were compared. Most patients were female and Caucasian. The majority reported a recognizable trigger factor and many had associated conditions, most commonly headache and irritable bowel syndrome. Physical function was significantly accounted for by pain levels (P = 0.001); pain score was significantly predicted by tenderness (P = 0.002) and physical function level (P = 0.001); fatigue levels were significantly influenced by age (P = 0.007) and sleep disturbance (P < 0.001), and sleep disturbance was significantly predicted by fatigue (P < 0.001). Just over one-third (34%) of patients were using fibromyalgia medications (low-dose tricyclic antidepressant, pregabalin or duloxetine); however, they had less anxiety (P = 0.006) and better reported physical function (P = 0.04) than those who were not. Less than half (43.6%) of the patients were regularly exercising; however, they had reduced overall illness impact scores (P = 0.004), better physical function (P = 0.01) and less fatigue (P = 0.03), anxiety (P = 0.02) and depressive features (P = 0.008) than non-exercisers. Baseline clinical characteristics in this group were comparable to other study populations. The use of management modalities with proven benefit in fibromyalgia was limited; however, those patients who were engaged in regular exercise or using medication had better self-reported outcome measures than those who were not. © 2012 The Authors International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases © 2012 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

  10. The Cognitive Effects of Antidepressants in Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

    PubMed Central

    Rosenblat, Joshua D; Kakar, Ron

    2016-01-01

    Background: Cognitive dysfunction is often present in major depressive disorder (MDD). Several clinical trials have noted a pro-cognitive effect of antidepressants in MDD. The objective of the current systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the pooled efficacy of antidepressants on various domains of cognition in MDD. Methods: Trials published prior to April 15, 2015, were identified through searching the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Embase, PsychINFO, Clinicaltrials.gov, and relevant review articles. Data from randomized clinical trials assessing the cognitive effects of antidepressants were pooled to determine standard mean differences (SMD) using a random-effects model. Results: Nine placebo-controlled randomized trials (2 550 participants) evaluating the cognitive effects of vortioxetine (n = 728), duloxetine (n = 714), paroxetine (n = 23), citalopram (n = 84), phenelzine (n = 28), nortryptiline (n = 32), and sertraline (n = 49) were identified. Antidepressants had a positive effect on psychomotor speed (SMD 0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.05–0.27; I2 = 46%) and delayed recall (SMD 0.24; 95% CI 0.15–0.34; I2 = 0%). The effect on cognitive control and executive function did not reach statistical significance. Of note, after removal of vortioxetine from the analysis, statistical significance was lost for psychomotor speed. Eight head-to-head randomized trials comparing the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; n = 371), selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs; n = 25), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs; n = 138), and norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs; n = 46) were identified. No statistically significant difference in cognitive effects was found when pooling results from head-to-head trials of SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and NDRIs. Significant limitations were the heterogeneity of results, limited number of studies, and small sample sizes. Conclusions: Available evidence suggests that antidepressants have a significant positive effect on psychomotor speed and delayed recall. PMID:26209859

  11. Prenatal antidepressant exposure and risk of spontaneous abortion - a population-based study.

    PubMed

    Kjaersgaard, Maiken Ina Siegismund; Parner, Erik Thorlund; Vestergaard, Mogens; Sørensen, Merete Juul; Olsen, Jørn; Christensen, Jakob; Bech, Bodil Hammer; Pedersen, Lars Henning

    2013-01-01

    To estimate the risk of spontaneous abortion after use of antidepressant medication during pregnancy. From the Danish Medical Birth Registry and the Danish National Hospital Registry, we identified all pregnancies leading to in- or outpatient contacts in Denmark from February 1997 to December 2008. The Danish Registry of Medicinal Product Statistics provided information on the women's prescriptions for antidepressants during pregnancy. We obtained information on women who were diagnosed with depression from the Danish Psychiatric Central Registry. Adjusted relative risks (aRR) of spontaneous abortion were estimated according to exposure to antidepressants or maternal depression using binomial regression. Of the 1,005,319 pregnancies (547,300 women) identified, 114,721 (11.4%) ended in a spontaneous abortion. We identified 22,061 pregnancies exposed to antidepressants and 1,843 with a diagnosis of depression with no antidepressant use, of which 2,637 (12.0%) and 205 (11.1%) ended in a spontaneous abortion, respectively. Antidepressant exposure was associated with an aRR of 1.14 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-1.18) for spontaneous abortion compared with no exposure to antidepressants. Among women with a diagnosis of depression, the aRR for spontaneous abortion after any antidepressant exposure was 1.00 (95% CI 0.80-1.24). No individual selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) was associated with spontaneous abortions. In unadjusted analyses, we found that mirtazapine, venlafaxine, and duloxetine were associated with spontaneous abortions among women with depression but we had no information on potential differences in disease severity and only few pregnancies were exposed in the population. We identified a slightly increased risk of spontaneous abortion associated with the use of antidepressants during pregnancy. However, among women with a diagnosis of depression, antidepressants in general or individual SSRI in particular were not associated with spontaneous abortions. Further studies are warranted on the newer non-SSRI antidepressants, as we had insufficient data to adjust for important confounding factors.

  12. Determination of a clinically important difference and definition of a responder threshold for the UCSD performance-based skills assessment (UPSA) in patients with major depressive disorder.

    PubMed

    Harvey, Philip D; Jacobson, William; Zhong, Wei; Nomikos, George G; Cronquist Christensen, Michael; Kurre Olsen, Christina; Merikle, Elizabeth

    2017-04-15

    This article reports an evaluation of the psychometric properties and clinically important difference (CID) threshold of the UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment (UPSA) in major depressive disorder (MDD), using data from a large-scale study of the effects of vortioxetine on cognitive functioning and functional capacity in MDD patients. Adults with moderate-to-severe recurrent MDD and self-reported cognitive dysfunction were randomized to 8 weeks of double-blind treatment with vortioxetine 10/20mg QD (flexible), duloxetine 60mg QD, or placebo. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between UPSA composite score and demographic/disease characteristics at baseline to examine construct validity. Two methods (distribution-based and anchor-based) were used to establish a CID threshold. A total of 602 patients were randomized; 528 comprised the full analysis set. For the entire sample mean UPSA composite scores were 77.8 at baseline and 83.9 at week 8 (mean change, +6.1). As hypothesized, at baseline, the UPSA composite score correlated with cognitive functioning (Digit Symbol Substitution Test: r=0.36, P<0.001) and workplace productivity (Work Limitations Questionnaire: r=-0.17, P=0.008), but not depressive symptoms (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale: r=0.02, P=0.707) or subjective cognitive dysfunction (Perceived Deficits Questionnaire: r=-0.02, P=0.698). Two versions of the UPSA were used and no inclusion/exclusion criteria were based on the UPSA. These results support the construct validity of UPSA for assessing functional capacity independent of mood symptoms. The estimated CID for changes in UPSA scores was quite consistent at +6.4 points and +6.7 based on distribution-based and anchor-based methods, respectively. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Central Sensitization and Neuropathic Features of Ongoing Pain in a Rat Model of Advanced Osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Havelin, Joshua; Imbert, Ian; Cormier, Jennifer; Allen, Joshua; Porreca, Frank; King, Tamara

    2016-03-01

    Osteoarthritis (OA) pain is most commonly characterized by movement-triggered joint pain. However, in advanced disease, OA pain becomes persistent, ongoing and resistant to treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The mechanisms underlying ongoing pain in advanced OA are poorly understood. We recently showed that intra-articular (i.a.) injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) into the rat knee joint produces concentration-dependent outcomes. Thus, a low dose of i.a. MIA produces NSAID-sensitive weight asymmetry without evidence of ongoing pain and a high i.a. MIA dose produces weight asymmetry and NSAID-resistant ongoing pain. In the present study, palpation of the ipsilateral hind limb of rats treated 14 days previously with high, but not low, doses of i.a. MIA produced expression of the early oncogene, FOS, in the spinal dorsal horn. Inactivation of descending pain facilitatory pathways using a microinjection of lidocaine within the rostral ventromedial medulla induced conditioned place preference selectively in rats treated with the high dose of MIA. Conditioned place preference to intra-articular lidocaine was blocked by pretreatment with duloxetine (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneally at -30 minutes). These observations are consistent with the likelihood of a neuropathic component of OA that elicits ongoing, NSAID-resistant pain and central sensitization that is mediated, in part, by descending modulatory mechanisms. This model provides a basis for exploration of underlying mechanisms promoting neuropathic components of OA pain and for the identification of mechanisms that might guide drug discovery for treatment of advanced OA pain without the need for joint replacement. Difficulty in managing advanced OA pain often results in joint replacement therapy in these patients. Improved understanding of mechanisms driving NSAID-resistant ongoing OA pain might facilitate development of alternatives to joint replacement therapy. Our findings suggest that central sensitization and neuropathic features contribute to NSAID-resistant ongoing OA joint pain. Copyright © 2016 American Pain Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Pharmacotherapy.

    PubMed

    Iqbal, Zohaib; Azmi, Shazli; Yadav, Rahul; Ferdousi, Maryam; Kumar, Mohit; Cuthbertson, Daniel J; Lim, Jonathan; Malik, Rayaz A; Alam, Uazman

    2018-06-01

    Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the commonest cause of neuropathy worldwide, and its prevalence increases with the duration of diabetes. It affects approximately half of patients with diabetes. DPN is symmetric and predominantly sensory, starting distally and gradually spreading proximally in a glove-and-stocking distribution. It causes substantial morbidity and is associated with increased mortality. The unrelenting nature of pain in this condition can negatively affect a patient's sleep, mood, and functionality and result in a poor quality of life. The purpose of this review was to critically review the current literature on the diagnosis and treatment of DPN, with a focus on the treatment of neuropathic pain in DPN. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken, incorporating article searches in electronic databases (EMBASE, PubMed, OVID) and reference lists of relevant articles with the authors' expertise in DPN. This review considers seminal and novel research in epidemiology; diagnosis, especially in relation to novel surrogate end points; and the treatment of neuropathic pain in DPN. We also consider potential new pharmacotherapies for painful DPN. DPN is often misdiagnosed and inadequately treated. Other than improving glycemic control, there is no licensed pathogenetic treatment for diabetic neuropathy. Management of painful DPN remains challenging due to difficulties in personalizing therapy and ascertaining the best dosing strategy, choice of initial pharmacotherapy, consideration of combination therapy, and deciding on defining treatment for poor analgesic responders. Duloxetine and pregabalin remain first-line therapy for neuropathic pain in DPN in all 5 of the major published guidelines by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American Academy of Neurology, European Federation of Neurological Societies, National Institute of Clinical Excellence (United Kingdom), and the American Diabetes Association, and their use has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Clinical recognition of DPN is imperative for allowing timely symptom management to reduce the morbidity associated with this condition. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. A systematic review of the efficacy of venlafaxine for the treatment of fibromyalgia.

    PubMed

    VanderWeide, L A; Smith, S M; Trinkley, K E

    2015-02-01

    Fibromyalgia is a painful disease affecting 1-2% of the United States population. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine and milnacipran, are well studied and frequently used for treating this disorder. However, efficacy data are limited for the SNRI venlafaxine despite its use in nearly a quarter of patients with fibromyalgia. Accordingly, we systematically reviewed the efficacy of venlafaxine for treatment of fibromyalgia. PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Database were searched using the terms 'venlafaxine' and 'fibromyalgia'. Results were classified as primary studies or review articles based on abstract review. References of review articles were evaluated to ensure no primary studies evaluating venlafaxine were overlooked. All clinical studies that investigated venlafaxine for the treatment of fibromyalgia were included and graded on strength of evidence. Five studies met the inclusion criteria, including 4 open-label cohort studies and 1 randomized, controlled trial. Study durations ranged from 6 weeks to 6 months, and study sizes ranged from 11 to 102 participants. Four of the five published studies reported improvement in at least one outcome. Generally consistent improvements were observed in pain-related outcome measures, including the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (range, 26-29% reduction; n = 2 studies), Visual Analog Scale (range, 36-45% reduction; n = 2 studies), McGill Pain Questionnaire (48% reduction; n = 1 study) and Clinical Global Impression scale (51% had significant score change; n = 1 study). However, the few studies identified were limited by small sample size, inconsistent use of outcomes and methodological concerns. Studies assessing the efficacy of venlafaxine in the treatment of fibromyalgia to date have been limited by small sample size, inconsistent venlafaxine dosing, lack of placebo control and lack of blinding. In the context of these limitations, venlafaxine appears to be at least modestly effective in treating fibromyalgia. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to further elucidate the full benefit of venlafaxine. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  16. A 12-Month Open-Label Extension Study of the Safety and Tolerability of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate for Major Depressive Disorder in Adults.

    PubMed

    Richards, Cynthia; Iosifescu, Dan V; Mago, Rajnish; Sarkis, Elias; Geibel, Brooke; Dauphin, Matthew; McIntyre, Roger S; Weisler, Richard; Brawman-Mintzer, Olga; Gu, Joan; Madhoo, Manisha

    2018-06-16

    Psychostimulant augmentation is considered a potential treatment strategy for individuals with major depressive disorder who do not adequately respond to antidepressant monotherapy. The primary objective of this 12-month open-label extension study was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) as augmentation therapy to an antidepressant in adults with major depressive disorder. Eligible adults who completed 1 of 3 short-term antecedent LDX augmentation of antidepressant monotherapy studies were treated with dose-optimized LDX (20-70 mg) for up to 52 weeks while continuing on the index antidepressant (escitalopram, sertraline, venlafaxine extended-release, or duloxetine) assigned during the antecedent short-term studies. Safety and tolerability assessments included the occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events and vital sign changes. All 3 antecedent studies failed to meet the prespecified primary efficacy endpoint, so this open-label study was terminated early. Headache (15.5% [241/1559]), dry mouth (13.6% [212/1559]), insomnia (13.1% [204/1559]), and decreased appetite (12.1% [189/1559]) were the most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events. The greatest mean ± SD increases observed for systolic and diastolic blood pressure and for pulse were 2.6 ± 10.85 and 1.7 ± 7.94 mm Hg and 6.9 ± 10.27 bpm, respectively. Monitoring determined that less than 1% of participants experienced potentially clinically important changes in systolic blood pressure (10 [0.6%]), diastolic blood pressure (8 [0.5%]), or pulse (6 [0.4%]). The overall safety and tolerability of long-term LDX augmentation of antidepressant monotherapy was consistent with the profiles of the short-term antecedent studies, with no evidence of new safety signals.This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal.

  17. Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of Physicians.

    PubMed

    Qaseem, Amir; Wilt, Timothy J; McLean, Robert M; Forciea, Mary Ann

    2017-04-04

    The American College of Physicians (ACP) developed this guideline to present the evidence and provide clinical recommendations on noninvasive treatment of low back pain. Using the ACP grading system, the committee based these recommendations on a systematic review of randomized, controlled trials and systematic reviews published through April 2015 on noninvasive pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments for low back pain. Updated searches were performed through November 2016. Clinical outcomes evaluated included reduction or elimination of low back pain, improvement in back-specific and overall function, improvement in health-related quality of life, reduction in work disability and return to work, global improvement, number of back pain episodes or time between episodes, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects. The target audience for this guideline includes all clinicians, and the target patient population includes adults with acute, subacute, or chronic low back pain. Given that most patients with acute or subacute low back pain improve over time regardless of treatment, clinicians and patients should select nonpharmacologic treatment with superficial heat (moderate-quality evidence), massage, acupuncture, or spinal manipulation (low-quality evidence). If pharmacologic treatment is desired, clinicians and patients should select nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or skeletal muscle relaxants (moderate-quality evidence). (Grade: strong recommendation). For patients with chronic low back pain, clinicians and patients should initially select nonpharmacologic treatment with exercise, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction (moderate-quality evidence), tai chi, yoga, motor control exercise, progressive relaxation, electromyography biofeedback, low-level laser therapy, operant therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or spinal manipulation (low-quality evidence). (Grade: strong recommendation). In patients with chronic low back pain who have had an inadequate response to nonpharmacologic therapy, clinicians and patients should consider pharmacologic treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as first-line therapy, or tramadol or duloxetine as second-line therapy. Clinicians should only consider opioids as an option in patients who have failed the aforementioned treatments and only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks for individual patients and after a discussion of known risks and realistic benefits with patients. (Grade: weak recommendation, moderate-quality evidence).

  18. Descriptions of Adverse Drug Reactions Are Less Informative in Forums Than in the French Pharmacovigilance Database but Provide More Unexpected Reactions

    PubMed Central

    Karapetiantz, Pierre; Bellet, Florelle; Audeh, Bissan; Lardon, Jérémy; Leprovost, Damien; Aboukhamis, Rim; Morlane-Hondère, François; Grouin, Cyril; Burgun, Anita; Katsahian, Sandrine; Jaulent, Marie-Christine; Beyens, Marie-Noëlle; Lillo-Le Louët, Agnès; Bousquet, Cédric

    2018-01-01

    Background: Social media have drawn attention for their potential use in Pharmacovigilance. Recent work showed that it is possible to extract information concerning adverse drug reactions (ADRs) from posts in social media. The main objective of the Vigi4MED project was to evaluate the relevance and quality of the information shared by patients on web forums about drug safety and its potential utility for pharmacovigilance. Methods: After selecting websites of interest, we manually evaluated the relevance of the content of posts for pharmacovigilance related to six drugs (agomelatine, baclofen, duloxetine, exenatide, strontium ranelate, and tetrazepam). We compared forums to the French Pharmacovigilance Database (FPVD) to (1) evaluate whether they contained relevant information to characterize a pharmacovigilance case report (patient’s age and sex; treatment indication, dose and duration; time-to-onset (TTO) and outcome of the ADR, and drug dechallenge and rechallenge) and (2) perform impact analysis (nature, seriousness, unexpectedness, and outcome of the ADR). Results: The cases in the FPVD were significantly more informative than posts in forums for patient description (age, sex), treatment description (dose, duration, TTO), and outcome of the ADR, but the indication for the treatment was more often found in forums. Cases were more often serious in the FPVD than in forums (46% vs. 4%), but forums more often contained an unexpected ADR than the FPVD (24% vs. 17%). Moreover, 197 unexpected ADRs identified in forums were absent from the FPVD and the distribution of the MedDRA System Organ Classes (SOCs) was different between the two data sources. Discussion: This study is the first to evaluate if patients’ posts may qualify as potential and informative case reports that should be stored in a pharmacovigilance database in the same way as case reports submitted by health professionals. The posts were less informative (except for the indication) and focused on less serious ADRs than the FPVD cases, but more unexpected ADRs were presented in forums than in the FPVD and their SOCs were different. Thus, web forums should be considered as a secondary, but complementary source for pharmacovigilance. PMID:29765326

  19. Vortioxetine dose-dependently reverses 5-HT depletion-induced deficits in spatial working and object recognition memory: a potential role for 5-HT1A receptor agonism and 5-HT3 receptor antagonism.

    PubMed

    du Jardin, Kristian Gaarn; Jensen, Jesper Bornø; Sanchez, Connie; Pehrson, Alan L

    2014-01-01

    We previously reported that the investigational multimodal antidepressant, vortioxetine, reversed 5-HT depletion-induced memory deficits while escitalopram and duloxetine did not. The present report studied the effects of vortioxetine and the potential impact of its 5-HT1A receptor agonist and 5-HT3 receptor antagonist properties on 5-HT depletion-induced memory deficits. Recognition and spatial working memory were assessed in the object recognition (OR) and Y-maze spontaneous alternation (SA) tests, respectively. 5-HT depletion was induced in female Long-Evans rats using 4-cholro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester HCl (PCPA) and receptor occupancies were determined by ex vivo autoradiography. Rats were acutely dosed with vortioxetine, ondansetron (5-HT3 receptor antagonist) or flesinoxan (5-HT1A receptor agonist). The effects of chronic vortioxetine administration on 5-HT depletion-induced memory deficits were also assessed. 5-HT depletion reliably impaired memory performance in both the tests. Vortioxetine reversed PCPA-induced memory deficits dose-dependently with a minimal effective dose (MED) ≤0.1mg/kg (∼80% 5-HT3 receptor occupancy; OR) and ≤3.0mg/kg (5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT3 receptor occupancy: ∼15%, 60%, 95%) in SA. Ondansetron exhibited a MED ≤3.0μg/kg (∼25% 5-HT3 receptor occupancy; OR), but was inactive in the SA test. Flesinoxan had a MED ≤1.0mg/kg (∼25% 5-HT1A receptor occupancy; SA); only 1.0mg/kg ameliorated deficits in the NOR. Chronic p.o. vortioxetine administration significantly improved memory performance in OR and occupied 95%, 66%, and 9.5% of 5-HT3, 5-HT1B, and 5-HT1A receptors, respectively. Vortioxetine's effects on SA performance may involve 5-HT1A receptor agonism, but not 5-HT3 receptor antagonism, whereas the effects on OR performance may involve 5-HT3 receptor antagonism and 5-HT1A receptor agonism. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. and ECNP. All rights reserved.

  20. An LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of 15 antipsychotics and two metabolites in hair and its application to rat hair.

    PubMed

    Sim, Juhyun; Kim, Eunmi; Yang, Wonkyung; Woo, Sanghee; In, Sangwhan

    2017-05-01

    In recent years, the inappropriate use of antipsychotics by young Korean men has become a social problem. As military service exemptions are given for mental illness, some men pose as mental health patients to avoid military service. In order to verify the authenticity of mental illnesses, we developed simultaneous analytical methods for the detection of 15 antipsychotics and 2 of their metabolites in hair using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. The target drugs were modafinil, atomoxetine, aripiprazole, benztropine, buspirone, duloxetine, gabapentin, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, escitalopram, paliperidone, ziprasidone, lamotrigine, clonazepam, levetiracetam, and metabolites of oxcarbazepine and clonazepam. To remove possible contaminants on the hair surface, hair samples were washed twice with methanol and distilled water, and then were extracted with methanol overnight at 38°C. Desipramine-d 3 was used as an internal standard. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed on an Agilent 1290 Infinity UHPLC coupled to an AB Sciex Qtrap ® 5500 MS/MS. The total chromatographic run time was 14min. The following validation parameters were evaluated: selectivity, linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), precision, accuracy, matrix effect, and recovery. The LOD and LOQ values for all analytes, except modafinil, ranged from 0.2 to 10pg/mg hair and from 0.2 to 20pg/mg hair, respectively. Good linearity was achieved for most of the analytes in the range of 20-200pg/mg hair. The method showed acceptable precision and accuracy, which were less than 15%, as well as satisfactory matrix effects and recoveries. Furthermore, this method was also applied to the analysis of rat hair samples. The study in rats showed that the concentrations of atomoxetine and aripiprazole in pigmented hair were significantly higher than those in non-pigmented hair. However, no significant difference was observed in the concentration of topiramate between pigmented and non-pigmented hair. This method will be useful in monitoring the inappropriate use of antipsychotics in suspects posing as mental health patients. However, further research is necessary before applying this method to authentic hair samples from mental health patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. OARSI guidelines for the non-surgical management of knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    McAlindon, T E; Bannuru, R R; Sullivan, M C; Arden, N K; Berenbaum, F; Bierma-Zeinstra, S M; Hawker, G A; Henrotin, Y; Hunter, D J; Kawaguchi, H; Kwoh, K; Lohmander, S; Rannou, F; Roos, E M; Underwood, M

    2014-03-01

    To develop concise, up-to-date, patient-focused, evidence-based, expert consensus guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA), intended to inform patients, physicians, and allied healthcare professionals worldwide. Thirteen experts from relevant medical disciplines (primary care, rheumatology, orthopedics, physical therapy, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and evidence-based medicine), three continents and ten countries (USA, UK, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Australia, Japan, and Canada) and a patient representative comprised the Osteoarthritis Guidelines Development Group (OAGDG). Based on previous OA guidelines and a systematic review of the OA literature, 29 treatment modalities were considered for recommendation. Evidence published subsequent to the 2010 OARSI guidelines was based on a systematic review conducted by the OA Research Society International (OARSI) evidence team at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, USA. Medline, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were initially searched in first quarter 2012 and last searched in March 2013. Included evidence was assessed for quality using Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) criteria, and published criticism of included evidence was also considered. To provide recommendations for individuals with a range of health profiles and OA burden, treatment recommendations were stratified into four clinical sub-phenotypes. Consensus recommendations were produced using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Delphi voting process. Treatments were recommended as Appropriate, Uncertain, or Not Appropriate, for each of four clinical sub-phenotypes and accompanied by 1-10 risk and benefit scores. Appropriate treatment modalities for all individuals with knee OA included biomechanical interventions, intra-articular corticosteroids, exercise (land-based and water-based), self-management and education, strength training, and weight management. Treatments appropriate for specific clinical sub-phenotypes included acetaminophen (paracetamol), balneotherapy, capsaicin, cane (walking stick), duloxetine, oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; COX-2 selective and non-selective), and topical NSAIDs. Treatments of uncertain appropriateness for specific clinical sub-phenotypes included acupuncture, avocado soybean unsaponfiables, chondroitin, crutches, diacerein, glucosamine, intra-articular hyaluronic acid, opioids (oral and transdermal), rosehip, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and ultrasound. Treatments voted not appropriate included risedronate and electrotherapy (neuromuscular electrical stimulation). These evidence-based consensus recommendations provide guidance to patients and practitioners on treatments applicable to all individuals with knee OA, as well as therapies that can be considered according to individualized patient needs and preferences. Copyright © 2014 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Predictors of remission in depression to individual and combined treatments (PReDICT): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Limited controlled data exist to guide treatment choices for clinicians caring for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Although many putative predictors of treatment response have been reported, most were identified through retrospective analyses of existing datasets and very few have been replicated in a manner that can impact clinical practice. One major confound in previous studies examining predictors of treatment response is the patient’s treatment history, which may affect both the predictor of interest and treatment outcomes. Moreover, prior treatment history provides an important source of selection bias, thereby limiting generalizability. Consequently, we initiated a randomized clinical trial designed to identify factors that moderate response to three treatments for MDD among patients never treated previously for the condition. Methods/design Treatment-naïve adults aged 18 to 65 years with moderate-to-severe, non-psychotic MDD are randomized equally to one of three 12-week treatment arms: (1) cognitive behavior therapy (CBT, 16 sessions); (2) duloxetine (30–60 mg/d); or (3) escitalopram (10–20 mg/d). Prior to randomization, patients undergo multiple assessments, including resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), immune markers, DNA and gene expression products, and dexamethasone-corticotropin-releasing hormone (Dex/CRH) testing. Prior to or shortly after randomization, patients also complete a comprehensive personality assessment. Repeat assessment of the biological measures (fMRI, immune markers, and gene expression products) occurs at an early time-point in treatment, and upon completion of 12-week treatment, when a second Dex/CRH test is also conducted. Patients remitting by the end of this acute treatment phase are then eligible to enter a 21-month follow-up phase, with quarterly visits to monitor for recurrence. Non-remitters are offered augmentation treatment for a second 12-week course of treatment, during which they receive a combination of CBT and antidepressant medication. Predictors of the primary outcome, remission, will be identified for overall and treatment-specific effects, and a statistical model incorporating multiple predictors will be developed to predict outcomes. Discussion The PReDICT study’s evaluation of biological, psychological, and clinical factors that may differentially impact treatment outcomes represents a sizeable step toward developing personalized treatments for MDD. Identified predictors should help guide the selection of initial treatments, and identify those patients most vulnerable to recurrence, who thus warrant maintenance or combination treatments to achieve and maintain wellness. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00360399. Registered 02 AUG 2006. First patient randomized 09 FEB 2007. PMID:22776534

  3. Management of fibromyalgia syndrome – an interdisciplinary evidence-based guideline

    PubMed Central

    Häuser, Winfried; Arnold, Bernhard; Eich, Wolfgang; Felde, Eva; Flügge, Christl; Henningsen, Peter; Herrmann, Markus; Köllner, Volker; Kühn, Edeltraud; Nutzinger, Detlev; Offenbächer, Martin; Schiltenwolf, Marcus; Sommer, Claudia; Thieme, Kati; Kopp, Ina

    2008-01-01

    The prevalence of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) of 1–2% in the general population associated with high disease-related costs and the conflicting data on treatment effectiveness had led to the development of evidence-based guidelines designed to provide patients and physicians guidance in selecting among the alternatives. Until now no evidence-based interdisciplinary (including patients) guideline for the management of FMS was available in Europe. Therefore a guideline for the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) was developed by 13 German medical and psychological associations and two patient self-help organisations. The task was coordinated by two German scientific umbrella organisations, the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany AWMF and the German Interdisciplinary Association of Pain Therapy DIVS. A systematic search of the literature including all controlled studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments of FMS was performed in the Cochrane Library (1993–12/2006), Medline (1980–12/2006), PsychInfo (1966–12/2006) and Scopus (1980–12/ 2006). Levels of evidence were assigned according to the classification system of the Oxford-Centre for Evidence Based Medicine. Grading of the strengths of recommendations was done according to the German program for disease management guidelines. Standardized procedures were used to reach a consensus on recommendations. The guideline was reviewed and finally approved by the boards of the societies involved and published online by the AWMF on april 25, 2008: http://www.uni-duesseldorf.de/AWMF/ll/041-004.htm. A short version of the guideline for patients is available as well: http://www.uni-duesseldorf.de/AWMF/ll/041-004p.htm. The following procedures in the management of FMS were strongly recommended: information on diagnosis and therapeutic options and patient-centered communication, aerobic exercise, cognitive and operant behavioural therapy, multicomponent treatment and amitriptyline. Based on expert opinion, a stepwise FMS-management was proposed. Step 1 comprises confirming the diagnosis and patient education and treatment of physical or mental comorbidities or aerobic exercise or cognitive behavioural therapy or amitriptyline. Step 2 includes multicomponent treatment. Step 3 comprises no further treatment or self-management (aerobic exercise, stress management) and/or booster multicomponent therapy and/or pharmacological therapy (duloxetine or fluoxetine or paroxetine or pregabalin or tramadol/aminoacetophen) and/or psychotherapy (hypnotherapy or written emotional disclosure) and/or physical therapy (balneotherapy or whole body heat therapy) and/or complementary therapies (homoeopathy or vegetarian diet). The choice of treatment options should be based on informed decision-making and respect of the patients’ preferences. PMID:19675740

  4. Pharmacotherapy for neuropathic pain in adults: systematic review, meta-analysis and updated NeuPSIG recommendations

    PubMed Central

    Finnerup, Nanna B; Attal, Nadine; Haroutounian, Simon; McNicol, Ewan; Baron, Ralf; Dworkin, Robert H; Gilron, Ian; Haanpaa, Maija; Hansson, Per; Jensen, Troels S; Kamerman, Peter R; Lund, Karen; Moore, Andrew; Raja, Srinivasa N; Rice, Andrew SC; Rowbotham, Michael; Sena, Emily; Siddall, Philip; Smith, Blair H; Wallace, Mark

    2015-01-01

    Summary Background Neuropathic pain is difficult to treat. New treatments, clinical trials and standards of quality for assessing evidence justify an update of evidence-based recommendations for its pharmacological treatment. Methods The Neuropathic Pain Special Interest Group (NeuPSIG) of the International Association for the Study of Pain conducted a systematic review of randomised double-blind studies of oral and topical pharmacotherapy for neuropathic pain, including unpublished trials (retrieved from clinicaltrials.gov and pharmaceutical websites). Meta-analysis used Numbers Needed to Treat (NNT) for 50 % pain relief as primary measure and assessed publication bias. Recommendations used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Findings In total 229 studies were included. Analysis of publication bias suggested a 10% overstatement of treatment effects. Studies published in peer-review journals reported greater effects than online studies (R2=9·3%, p<0·01). Trial outcomes were generally modest even for effective drugs : in particular NNTs were 3·6 (95 % CI 3·0–4·4) for tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), 6·4 (95 % CI 5·2–8·4) for serotonin- noradrenaline reuptake inbibitor (SNRI) antidepressants duloxetine and venlafaxine, 7·7 (95 % CI 6·5–9·4) for pregabalin and 6·3 (95 % CI 5·0–8·3) for gabapentin. NNTs were higher for gabapentin ER/enacarbil and capsaicin high concentration patches, lower for opioids and botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) and undetermined for lidocaine patches. Final quality of evidence was lower for lidocaine patches and BTX-A. Tolerability/safety and values/preferences were high for lidocaine patches and lower for opioids and TCAs. This permitted a strong GRADE recommendation for use and proposal as first line for TCAs, SNRIs, pregabalin, gabapentin and gabapentin ER/enacarbil in neuropathic pain, a weak recommendation for use and proposal as second line for lidocaine patches, capsaicin patches and tramadol, and a weak recommendations for use and proposal as third line for strong opioids (particularly oxycodone and morphine) and BTX-A. Data for cannabinoids, tapentadol, drug combinations, and several other antiepileptics, antidepressants and topical drugs were inconclusive. Interpretation Limited efficacy, large placebo responses, inadequate diagnostic criteria and poor phenotypic profiling probably account for modest trial outcomes and should be taken into account in future studies. Funding This study was funded by NeuPSIG. PMID:25575710

  5. Efficacy of antidepressants for dysthymia: a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomized trials.

    PubMed

    Levkovitz, Yeciel; Tedeschini, Enrico; Papakostas, George I

    2011-04-01

    The authors sought to determine the efficacy of antidepressants in dysthymic disorder and to compare antidepressant and placebo response rates between major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymic disorder. PubMed/MEDLINE databases were searched for double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials of antidepressants used as monotherapy for treatment of MDD or dysthymic disorder. We defined antidepressants as those with a letter of approval by the US, Canadian, or European Union drug regulatory agencies for treatment of MDD or dysthymic disorder, which included the following: amitriptyline, nortriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, clomipramine, trimipramine, protriptyline, dothiepin, doxepin, lofepramine, amoxapine, maprotiline, amineptine, nomifensine, bupropion, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, moclobemide, brofaromine, fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, zimelidine, tianeptine, ritanserin, trazodone, nefazodone, agomelatine, venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, milnacipran, reboxetine, mirtazapine, and mianserin. Eligible studies were identified by cross-referencing the search term placebo with each of the above-mentioned agents. The search was limited to articles published between January 1, 1980, and November 20, 2009 (inclusive). To expand our database, we also reviewed the reference lists of the identified studies. We selected randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of antidepressants for either MDD or dysthymic disorder according to preset criteria relating to comorbidities, patient age, drug formulation, study duration, diagnostic criteria, choice of assessment scales, and whether or not the study reported original data. Final selection of articles was determined by consensus among the authors. A total of 194 studies were found that were eligible for inclusion in our analysis. Of these, 177 focused on the treatment of MDD and 17 on the treatment of dysthymic disorder. We found that antidepressant therapy was significantly more effective than placebo in dysthymic disorder (risk ratio = 1.75; 95% CI, 1.49-2.04; P < .0001), while placebo response rates in dysthymic disorder trials were significantly lower compared to MDD trials (29.9% vs 37.9%, respectively; P = .042). Meta-regression suggested a statistically significant difference in the risk ratio of responding to antidepressants versus placebo when comparing studies either on dysthymic disorder or on MDD, suggesting a greater risk ratio for response in favor of antidepressant therapy versus placebo in patients with dysthymic disorder versus MDD (coefficient of -0.113; P = .007). These results support the utility of antidepressants for dysthymic disorder. In fact, the margin of efficacy of antidepressants for dysthymic disorder was larger than for MDD. Future studies providing longer-term data on the treatment of dysthymic disorder with antidepressants are essential. © Copyright 2011 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

  6. Prospective drug safety monitoring using the UK primary-care General Practice Research Database: theoretical framework, feasibility analysis and extrapolation to future scenarios.

    PubMed

    Johansson, Saga; Wallander, Mari-Ann; de Abajo, Francisco J; García Rodríguez, Luis Alberto

    2010-03-01

    Post-launch drug safety monitoring is essential for the detection of adverse drug signals that may be missed during preclinical trials. Traditional methods of postmarketing surveillance such as spontaneous reporting have intrinsic limitations, many of which can be overcome by the additional application of structured pharmacoepidemiological approaches. However, further improvement in drug safety monitoring requires a shift towards more proactive pharmacoepidemiological methods that can detect adverse drug signals as they occur in the population. To assess the feasibility of using proactive monitoring of an electronic medical record system, in combination with an independent endpoint adjudication committee, to detect adverse events among users of selected drugs. UK General Practice Research Database (GPRD) information was used to detect acute liver disorder associated with the use of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (hepatotoxic) or low-dose aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid [non-hepatotoxic]). Individuals newly prescribed these drugs between 1 October 2005 and 31 March 2006 were identified. Acute liver disorder cases were assessed using GPRD computer records in combination with case validation by an independent endpoint adjudication committee. Signal generation thresholds were based on the background rate of acute liver disorder in the general population. Over a 6-month period, 8148 patients newly prescribed amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and 5577 patients newly prescribed low-dose aspirin were identified. Within this cohort, searches identified 11 potential liver disorder cases from computerized records: six for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and five for low-dose aspirin. The independent endpoint adjudication committee refined this to four potential acute liver disorder cases for whom paper-based information was requested for final case assessment. Final case assessments confirmed no cases of acute liver disorder. The time taken for this study was 18 months (6 months for recruitment and 12 months for data management and case validation). To reach the estimated target exposure necessary to raise or rule out a signal of concern to public health, we determined that a recruitment period 2-3 times longer than that used in this study would be required. Based on the real market uptake of six commonly used medicinal products launched between 2001 and 2006 in the UK (budesonide/eformoterol [fixed-dose combination], duloxetine, ezetimibe, metformin/rosiglitazone [fixed-dose combination], tiotropium bromide and tadalafil) the target exposure would not have been reached until the fifth year of marketing using a single database. It is feasible to set up a system that actively monitors drug safety using a healthcare database and an independent endpoint adjudication committee. However, future successful implementation will require multiple databases to be queried so that larger study populations are included. This requires further development and harmonization of international healthcare databases.

  7. American College of Rheumatology 2012 recommendations for the use of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies in osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee.

    PubMed

    Hochberg, Marc C; Altman, Roy D; April, Karine Toupin; Benkhalti, Maria; Guyatt, Gordon; McGowan, Jessie; Towheed, Tanveer; Welch, Vivian; Wells, George; Tugwell, Peter

    2012-04-01

    To update the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 2000 recommendations for hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) and develop new recommendations for hand OA. A list of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic modalities commonly used to manage knee, hip, and hand OA as well as clinical scenarios representing patients with symptomatic hand, hip, and knee OA were generated. Systematic evidence-based literature reviews were conducted by a working group at the Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, and updated by ACR staff to include additions to bibliographic databases through December 31, 2010. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, a formal process to rate scientific evidence and to develop recommendations that are as evidence based as possible, was used by a Technical Expert Panel comprised of various stakeholders to formulate the recommendations for the use of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic modalities for OA of the hand, hip, and knee. Both “strong” and “conditional” recommendations were made for OA management. Modalities conditionally recommended for the management of hand OA include instruction in joint protection techniques, provision of assistive devices, use of thermal modalities and trapeziometacarpal joint splints, and use of oral and topical nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tramadol, and topical capsaicin. Nonpharmacologic modalities strongly recommended for the management of knee OA were aerobic, aquatic, and/or resistance exercises as well as weight loss for overweight patients. Nonpharmacologic modalities conditionally recommended for knee OA included medial wedge insoles for valgus knee OA, subtalar strapped lateral insoles for varus knee OA, medially directed patellar taping, manual therapy, walking aids, thermal agents, tai chi, self management programs, and psychosocial interventions. Pharmacologic modalities conditionally recommended for the initial management of patients with knee OA included acetaminophen, oral and topical NSAIDs, tramadol, and intraarticular corticosteroid injections; intraarticular hyaluronate injections, duloxetine, and opioids were conditionally recommended in patients who had an inadequate response to initial therapy. Opioid analgesics were strongly recommended in patients who were either not willing to undergo or had contraindications for total joint arthroplasty after having failed medical therapy. Recommendations for hip OA were similar to those for the management of knee OA. These recommendations are based on the consensus judgment of clinical experts from a wide range of disciplines, informed by available evidence, balancing the benefits and harms of both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic modalities, and incorporating their preferences and values. It is hoped that these recommendations will be utilized by health care providers involved in the management of patients with OA. Copyright © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology.

  8. Gateways to clinical trials.

    PubMed

    Bayés, M; Rabasseda, X; Prous, J R

    2005-06-01

    Gateways to Clinical Trials is a guide to the most recent clinical trials in current literature and congresses. The data in the following tables have been retrieved from the Clinical Trials Knowledge Area of Prous Science Integrity, the drug discovery and development portal, http://integrity.prous.com. This issue focuses on the following selection of drugs: Abiraterone acetate, acyline, adalimumab, adenosine triphosphate, AEE-788, AIDSVAX gp120 B/B, AK-602, alefacept, alemtuzumab, alendronic acid sodium salt, alicaforsen sodium, alprazolam, amdoxovir, AMG-162, aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride, aminolevulinic acid methyl ester, aminophylline hydrate, anakinra, anecortave acetate, anti-CTLA-4 MAb, APC-8015, aripiprazole, aspirin, atazanavir sulfate, atomoxetine hydrochloride, atorvastatin calcium, atrasentan, AVE-5883, AZD-2171; Betamethasone dipropionate, bevacizumab, bimatoprost, biphasic human insulin (prb), bortezomib, BR-A-657, BRL-55730, budesonide, busulfan; Calcipotriol, calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate, calcium folinate, capecitabine, capravirine, carmustine, caspofungin acetate, cefdinir, certolizumab pegol, CG-53135, chlorambucil, ciclesonide, ciclosporin, cisplatin, clofarabine, clopidogrel hydrogensulfate, clozapine, co-trimoxazole, CP-122721, creatine, CY-2301, cyclophosphamide, cypher, cytarabine, cytolin; D0401, darbepoetin alfa, darifenacin hydrobromide, DASB, desipramine hydrochloride, desloratadine, desvenlafaxine succinate, dexamethasone, didanosine, diquafosol tetrasodium, docetaxel, doxorubicin hydrochloride, drotrecogin alfa (activated), duloxetine hydrochloride, dutasteride; Ecallantide, efalizumab, efavirenz, eletriptan, emtricitabine, enfuvirtide, enoxaparin sodium, estramustine phosphate sodium, etanercept, ethinylestradiol, etonogestrel, etonogestrel/ethinylestradiol, etoposide, exenatide; Famciclovir, fampridine, febuxostat, filgrastim, fludarabine phosphate, fluocinolone acetonide, fluorouracil, fluticasone propionate, fluvastatin sodium, fondaparinux sodium; Gaboxadol, gamma-hydroxybutyrate sodium, gefitinib, gelclair, gemcitabine, gemfibrozil, glibenclamide, glyminox; Haloperidol, heparin sodium, HPV 16/HPV 18 vaccine, human insulin, human insulin; Icatibant, imatinib mesylate, indium 111 (111In) ibritumomab tiuxetan, infliximab, INKP-100, iodine (I131) tositumomab, IoGen, ipratropium bromide, ixabepilone; L-870810, lamivudine, lapatinib, laquinimod, latanoprost, levonorgestrel, licochalcone a, liposomal doxorubicin, lopinavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, lorazepam, lovastatin; Maraviroc, maribavir, matuzumab, MDL-100907, melphalan, methotrexate, methylprednisolone, mitomycin, mitoxantrone hydrochloride, MK-0431, MN-001, MRKAd5 HIV-1 gag/pol/nef, MRKAd5gag, MVA.HIVA, MVA-BN Nef, MVA-Muc1-IL-2, mycophenolate mofetil; Nelfinavir mesilate, nesiritide, NSC-330507; Olanzapine, olmesartan medoxomil, omalizumab, oral insulin, osanetant; PA-457, paclitaxel, paroxetine, paroxetine hydrochloride, PCK-3145, PEG-filgrastim, peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b, perillyl alcohol, pexelizumab, pimecrolimus, pitavastatin calcium, porfiromycin, prasterone, prasugrel, pravastatin sodium, prednisone, pregabalin, prinomastat, PRO-2000, propofol, prostate cancer vaccine; Rasagiline mesilate, rhBMP-2/ACS, rhBMP-2/BCP, rhC1, ribavirin, rilpivirine, ritonavir, rituximab, Ro-26-9228, rosuvastatin calcium, rosuvastatin sodium, rubitecan; Selodenoson, simvastatin, sirolimus, sitaxsentan sodium, sorafenib, SS(dsFv)-PE38, St. John's Wort extract, stavudine; Tacrolimus, tadalafil, tafenoquine succinate, talaglumetad, tanomastat, taxus, tegaserod maleate, telithromycin, tempol, tenofovir, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, testosterone enanthate, TH-9507, thalidomide, tigecycline, timolol maleate, tiotropium bromide, tipifarnib, torcetrapib, trabectedin, travoprost, travoprost/timolol, treprostinil sodium; Valdecoxib, vardenafil hydrochloride hydrate, varenicline, VEGF-2 gene therapy, venlafaxine hydrochloride, vildagliptin, vincristine sulfate, voriconazole, VRX-496, VX-385; Warfarin sodium; Ximelagatran; Yttrium 90 (90Y) ibritumomab tiuxetan; Zanolimumab, zidovudine. Copyright (c) 2005 Prous Science. All rights reserved.

  9. The Clinical and Cost Effectiveness of Vortioxetine for the Treatment of a Major Depressive Episode in Patients With Failed Prior Antidepressant Therapy: A Critique of the Evidence.

    PubMed

    Lomas, James; Llewellyn, Alexis; Soares, Marta; Simmonds, Mark; Wright, Kath; Eastwood, Alison; Palmer, Stephen

    2016-09-01

    The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) invited the manufacturer of vortioxetine (Lundbeck) to submit clinical and cost-effectiveness evidence for vortioxetine for the treatment of major depressive episodes (MDEs), as part of the Institute's Single Technology Appraisal (STA) process. The Centre for Reviews and Dissemination and Centre for Health Economics at the University of York were commissioned to act as the independent Evidence Review Group (ERG). This article provides a description of the company submission, the ERG review and the resulting NICE guidance TA367 issued in November 2015. The ERG critically reviewed the evidence presented in the manufacturer's submission and identified areas requiring clarification, for which the manufacturer provided additional evidence. Two phase III randomised controlled trials for a second-line population involving vortioxetine were identified-REVIVE and TAK318. These two trials represent only 972 of over 7000 patients included in trials of vortioxetine. In REVIVE, there was a statistically significant difference in depression scores favouring vortioxetine compared with agomelatine [mean Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score difference of 2.16 points; 95 % confidence interval 0.81-3.51]. The ERG concluded that, based on all the evidence, rather than the substantially restricted subset of evidence originally considered by the manufacturer, vortioxetine is likely to be similar in efficacy to other analysed antidepressants [citalopram, sertraline, escitalopram and venlafaxine extended release (XR)], and may be more efficacious than agomelatine and inferior to duloxetine. The ERG concluded that vortioxetine may be more tolerable than other analysed antidepressants (sertraline, venlafaxine XR and bupropion), although the limited data prevent firm conclusions. The base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of vortioxetine reported by the manufacturer was £378 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) compared with venlafaxine. Given considerable concerns about the indirect treatment comparison undertaken by the manufacturer, the use of only a restrictive subset of the available evidence, and concerns regarding comparators and structural model assumptions, the ERG believes that this is not a valid estimate of the cost effectiveness of vortioxetine. Following corrections made to the model made by the ERG, the estimated cost effectiveness of vortioxetine was sensitive to the source of evidence used, in addition to whether certain comparators were excluded. The NICE thus asked the manufacturer to provide a revised economic model, which incorporated the broader evidence base and considered the cost effectiveness of vortioxetine as a third-line treatment. Assuming equal efficacy, vortioxetine was shown to be less costly and generate a higher QALY gain than relevant comparators at the third-line of treatment owing to its tolerability and adverse event profile. The NICE Appraisal Committee recommended vortioxetine as an option for treating MDEs in adults whose condition has responded inadequately to two antidepressants within the current episode.

  10. The Doryctinae (Braconidae) of Costa Rica: genera and species of the tribe Heterospilini

    PubMed Central

    Marsh, Paul M.; Wild, Alexander L.; Whitfield, James B.

    2013-01-01

    Abstract A comprehensive taxonomic study is presented for the four genera and 286 species of the doryctine tribe Heterospilini occurring in Costa Rica. The tribe is represented almost entirely by the 280 species of the genus Heterospilus Haliday. Keys for identification of the genera and species are provided and the genera and species are described and illustrated. An interactive key to the species of Heterospilus also was prepared using Lucid Builder. The following new genus and species are described from Costa Rica: Paraheterospilus gen. n., P. ceciliaensis sp. n., P. eumekus sp. n., P. wilbotgardus sp. n., Heterospilus achi sp. n., H. achterbergi sp. n., H. aesculapius sp. n., H. agujas sp. n., H. agujasensis sp. n., H. alajuelus sp. n., H. albocoxalis sp. n., H. alejandroi sp. n., H. amuzgo sp. n., H. angelicae sp. n., H. angustus sp. n., H. aphrodite sp. n., H. apollo sp. n., H. arawak sp. n., H. areolatus sp. n., H. artemis sp. n., H. athena sp. n., H. attraholucus sp. n., H. aubreyae sp. n., H. austini sp. n., H. azofeifai sp. n., H. bacchus sp. n., H. barbalhoae sp. n., H. bennetti sp. n., H. bicolor sp. n., H. boharti sp. n., H. borucas sp. n., H. braeti sp. n., H. brethesi sp. n., H. breviarius sp. n., H. brevicornus sp. n., H. bribri sp. n., H. brullei sp. n., H. bruesi sp. n., H. cabecares sp. n., H. cacaoensis sp. n., H. cachiensis sp. n., H. cameroni sp. n., H. cangrejaensis sp. n., H. careonotaulus sp. n., H. caritus sp. n., H. carolinae sp. n., H. cartagoensis sp. n., H. catiensis sp. n., H. catorce sp. n., H. cero sp. n., H. chaoi sp. n., H. chilamatensis sp. n., H. chocho sp. n., H. chorotegus sp. n., H. chorti sp. n., H. cinco sp. n., H. cocopa sp. n., H. colliletus sp. n., H. colonensis sp. n., H. complanatus sp. n., H. conservatus sp. n., H. cora sp. n., H. corcovado sp. n., H. corrugatus sp. n., H. costaricensis sp. n., H. cressoni sp. n., H. cuatro sp. n., H. curtisi sp. n., H. cushmani sp. n., H. dani sp. n., H. demeter sp. n., H. dianae sp. n., H. diecinueve sp. n., H. dieciocho sp. n., H. dieciseis sp. n., H. diecisiete sp. n., H. diez sp. n., H. doce sp. n., H. dos sp. n., H. dulcus sp. n., H. eberhardi sp. n., H. ektorincon sp. n., H. emilius sp. n., H. empalmensis sp. n., H. enderleini sp. n., H. escazuensis sp. n., H. fahringeri sp. n., H. fischeri sp. n., H. flavidus sp. n., H. flavisoma sp. n., H. flavostigmus sp. n., H. foersteri sp. n., H. fonsecai sp. n., H. fournieri sp. n., H. gahani sp. n., H. garifuna sp. n., H. gauldi sp. n., H. golfodulcensis sp. n., H. gouleti sp. n., H. granulatus sp. n., H. grisselli sp. n., H. guanacastensis sp. n., H. guapilensis sp. n., H. hachaensis sp. n., H. halidayi sp. n., H. hansoni sp. n., H. hansonorum sp. n., H. haplocarinus sp. n., H. hedqvisti sp. n., H. hera sp. n., H. heredius sp. n., H. hespenheidei sp. n., H. holleyae sp. n., H. huddlestoni sp. n., H. huetares sp. n., H. hypermekus sp. n., H. itza sp. n., H. ixcatec sp. n., H. ixil sp. n., H. jabillosensis sp. n., H. jakaltek sp. n., H. janzeni sp. n., H. jennieae sp. n., H. jonmarshi sp. n., H. jupiter sp. n., H. kellieae sp. n., H. kiefferi sp. n., H. kikapu sp. n., H. kulai sp. n., H. kuna sp. n., H. lapierrei sp. n., H. lasalturus sp. n., H. laselvus sp. n., H. leenderti sp. n., H. leioenopus sp. n., H. leiponotaulus sp. n., H. lenca sp. n., H. levis sp. n., H. leviscutum sp. n., H. levitergum sp. n., H. limonensis sp. n., H. longinoi sp. n., H. longisulcus sp. n., H. longius sp. n., H. luteogaster sp. n., H. luteoscutum sp. n., H. luteus sp. n., H. macrocarinus sp. n., H. macrocaudatus sp. n., H. magnus sp. n., H. malaisei sp. n., H. mam sp. n., H. maritzaensis sp. n., H. mars sp. n., H. masneri sp. n., H. masoni sp. n., H. mellosus sp. n., H. menkei sp. n., H. mercury sp. n., H. milleri sp. n., H. miskito sp. n., H. mixtec sp. n., H. monteverde sp. n., H. mopanmaya sp. n., H. muertensis sp. n., H. muesebecki sp. n., H. nahua sp. n., H. neesi sp. n., H. nemestrinus sp. n., H. nephilim sp. n., H. nephus sp. n., H. nigracapitus sp. n., H. nigragonatus sp. n., H. nigricoxus sp. n., H. nixoni sp. n., H. noyesi sp. n., H. nueve sp. n., H. nunesi sp. n., H. once sp. n., H. orbitus sp. n., H. orosi sp. n., H. paloverde sp. n., H. pappi sp. n., H. parkeri sp. n., H. parvus sp. n., H. pech sp. n., H. penosa sp. n., H. petiolatus sp. n., H. petralbus sp. n., H. phaeocoxus sp. n., H. phaeoskelus sp. n., H. pharkidodus sp. n., H. phytorius sp. n., H. pitillaensis sp. n., H. poqomchi sp. n., H. poqomom sp. n., H. puertoviejoensis sp. n., H. puntarensis sp. n., H. qanjobal sp. n., H. quickei sp. n., H. quitirrisi sp. n., H. racostica sp. n., H. rama sp. n., H. ramirezi sp. n., H. ratzeburgi sp. n., H. reagani sp. n., H. reinhardi sp. n., H. retheospilus sp. n., H. rhabdotus sp. n., H. ricacosta sp. n., H. rinconensis sp. n., H. robbieae sp. n., H. rohweri sp. n., H. rojasi sp. n., H. romani sp. n., H. rugosus sp. n., H. sabrinae sp. n., H. saminae sp. n., H. sanjosensis sp. n., H. santarosensis sp. n., H. sanvitoensis sp. n., H. saturn sp. n., H. seis sp. n., H. sergeyi sp. n., H. sharkeyi sp. n., H. shawi sp. n., H. shenefelti sp. n., H. shonan sp. n., H. siete sp. n., H. similis sp. n., H. sinuatus sp. n., H. smithi sp. n., H. spiloheterus sp. n., H. staryi sp. n., H. stelfoxi sp. n., H. strazanaci sp. n., H. sumo sp. n., H. szepligeti sp. n., H. terrabas sp. n., H. thereospilus sp. n., H. tobiasi sp. n., H. tolupan sp. n., H. townesi sp. n., H. trece sp. n., H. tres sp. n., H. tricolor sp. n., H. trienta sp. n., H. tuberculatus sp. n., H. turrialbaensis sp. n., H. tzutujil sp. n., H. ugaldei sp. n., H. uno sp. n., H. variabilis sp. n., H. veinte sp. n., H. veintidos sp. n., H. veintitres sp. n., H. veintiuno sp. n., H. vierecki sp. n., H. villegasi sp. n., H. vittatus sp. n., H. vulcanus sp. n., H. wahli sp. n., H. warreni sp. n., H. washingtoni sp. n., H. wesmaeli sp. n., H. whartoni sp. n., H. whitfieldi sp. n., H. wildi sp. n., H. wilkinsoni sp. n., H. wrightae sp. n., H. xanthus sp. n., H. xerxes sp. n., H. xinca sp. n., H. yaqui sp. n., H. ypsilon sp. n., H. zapotec sp. n., H. zeus sp. n., H. zitaniae sp. n., H. zoque sp. n., H. zunigai sp. n., H. zurquiensis sp. n. One new combination is proposed, Pioscelus costaricensis (Marsh) comb. n. PMID:24222723

  11. The Doryctinae (Braconidae) of Costa Rica: genera and species of the tribe Heterospilini.

    PubMed

    Marsh, Paul M; Wild, Alexander L; Whitfield, James B

    2013-01-01

    A comprehensive taxonomic study is presented for the four genera and 286 species of the doryctine tribe Heterospilini occurring in Costa Rica. The tribe is represented almost entirely by the 280 species of the genus Heterospilus Haliday. Keys for identification of the genera and species are provided and the genera and species are described and illustrated. An interactive key to the species of Heterospilus also was prepared using Lucid Builder. The following new genus and species are described from Costa Rica: Paraheterospilus gen. n., P. ceciliaensis sp. n., P. eumekus sp. n., P. wilbotgardus sp. n., Heterospilus achi sp. n., H. achterbergi sp. n., H. aesculapius sp. n., H. agujas sp. n., H. agujasensis sp. n., H. alajuelus sp. n., H. albocoxalis sp. n., H. alejandroi sp. n., H. amuzgo sp. n., H. angelicae sp. n., H. angustus sp. n., H. aphrodite sp. n., H. apollo sp. n., H. arawak sp. n., H. areolatus sp. n., H. artemis sp. n., H. athena sp. n., H. attraholucus sp. n., H. aubreyae sp. n., H. austini sp. n., H. azofeifai sp. n., H. bacchus sp. n., H. barbalhoae sp. n., H. bennetti sp. n., H. bicolor sp. n., H. boharti sp. n., H. borucas sp. n., H. braeti sp. n., H. brethesi sp. n., H. breviarius sp. n., H. brevicornus sp. n., H. bribri sp. n., H. brullei sp. n., H. bruesi sp. n., H. cabecares sp. n., H. cacaoensis sp. n., H. cachiensis sp. n., H. cameroni sp. n., H. cangrejaensis sp. n., H. careonotaulus sp. n., H. caritus sp. n., H. carolinae sp. n., H. cartagoensis sp. n., H. catiensis sp. n., H. catorce sp. n., H. cero sp. n., H. chaoi sp. n., H. chilamatensis sp. n., H. chocho sp. n., H. chorotegus sp. n., H. chorti sp. n., H. cinco sp. n., H. cocopa sp. n., H. colliletus sp. n., H. colonensis sp. n., H. complanatus sp. n., H. conservatus sp. n., H. cora sp. n., H. corcovado sp. n., H. corrugatus sp. n., H. costaricensis sp. n., H. cressoni sp. n., H. cuatro sp. n., H. curtisi sp. n., H. cushmani sp. n., H. dani sp. n., H. demeter sp. n., H. dianae sp. n., H. diecinueve sp. n., H. dieciocho sp. n., H. dieciseis sp. n., H. diecisiete sp. n., H. diez sp. n., H. doce sp. n., H. dos sp. n., H. dulcus sp. n., H. eberhardi sp. n., H. ektorincon sp. n., H. emilius sp. n., H. empalmensis sp. n., H. enderleini sp. n., H. escazuensis sp. n., H. fahringeri sp. n., H. fischeri sp. n., H. flavidus sp. n., H. flavisoma sp. n., H. flavostigmus sp. n., H. foersteri sp. n., H. fonsecai sp. n., H. fournieri sp. n., H. gahani sp. n., H. garifuna sp. n., H. gauldi sp. n., H. golfodulcensis sp. n., H. gouleti sp. n., H. granulatus sp. n., H. grisselli sp. n., H. guanacastensis sp. n., H. guapilensis sp. n., H. hachaensis sp. n., H. halidayi sp. n., H. hansoni sp. n., H. hansonorum sp. n., H. haplocarinus sp. n., H. hedqvisti sp. n., H. hera sp. n., H. heredius sp. n., H. hespenheidei sp. n., H. holleyae sp. n., H. huddlestoni sp. n., H. huetares sp. n., H. hypermekus sp. n., H. itza sp. n., H. ixcatec sp. n., H. ixil sp. n., H. jabillosensis sp. n., H. jakaltek sp. n., H. janzeni sp. n., H. jennieae sp. n., H. jonmarshi sp. n., H. jupiter sp. n., H. kellieae sp. n., H. kiefferi sp. n., H. kikapu sp. n., H. kulai sp. n., H. kuna sp. n., H. lapierrei sp. n., H. lasalturus sp. n., H. laselvus sp. n., H. leenderti sp. n., H. leioenopus sp. n., H. leiponotaulus sp. n., H. lenca sp. n., H. levis sp. n., H. leviscutum sp. n., H. levitergum sp. n., H. limonensis sp. n., H. longinoi sp. n., H. longisulcus sp. n., H. longius sp. n., H. luteogaster sp. n., H. luteoscutum sp. n., H. luteus sp. n., H. macrocarinus sp. n., H. macrocaudatus sp. n., H. magnus sp. n., H. malaisei sp. n., H. mam sp. n., H. maritzaensis sp. n., H. mars sp. n., H. masneri sp. n., H. masoni sp. n., H. mellosus sp. n., H. menkei sp. n., H. mercury sp. n., H. milleri sp. n., H. miskito sp. n., H. mixtec sp. n., H. monteverde sp. n., H. mopanmaya sp. n., H. muertensis sp. n., H. muesebecki sp. n., H. nahua sp. n., H. neesi sp. n., H. nemestrinus sp. n., H. nephilim sp. n., H. nephus sp. n., H. nigracapitus sp. n., H. nigragonatus sp. n., H. nigricoxus sp. n., H. nixoni sp. n., H. noyesi sp. n., H. nueve sp. n., H. nunesi sp. n., H. once sp. n., H. orbitus sp. n., H. orosi sp. n., H. paloverde sp. n., H. pappi sp. n., H. parkeri sp. n., H. parvus sp. n., H. pech sp. n., H. penosa sp. n., H. petiolatus sp. n., H. petralbus sp. n., H. phaeocoxus sp. n., H. phaeoskelus sp. n., H. pharkidodus sp. n., H. phytorius sp. n., H. pitillaensis sp. n., H. poqomchi sp. n., H. poqomom sp. n., H. puertoviejoensis sp. n., H. puntarensis sp. n., H. qanjobal sp. n., H. quickei sp. n., H. quitirrisi sp. n., H. racostica sp. n., H. rama sp. n., H. ramirezi sp. n., H. ratzeburgi sp. n., H. reagani sp. n., H. reinhardi sp. n., H. retheospilus sp. n., H. rhabdotus sp. n., H. ricacosta sp. n., H. rinconensis sp. n., H. robbieae sp. n., H. rohweri sp. n., H. rojasi sp. n., H. romani sp. n., H. rugosus sp. n., H. sabrinae sp. n., H. saminae sp. n., H. sanjosensis sp. n., H. santarosensis sp. n., H. sanvitoensis sp. n., H. saturn sp. n., H. seis sp. n., H. sergeyi sp. n., H. sharkeyi sp. n., H. shawi sp. n., H. shenefelti sp. n., H. shonan sp. n., H. siete sp. n., H. similis sp. n., H. sinuatus sp. n., H. smithi sp. n., H. spiloheterus sp. n., H. staryi sp. n., H. stelfoxi sp. n., H. strazanaci sp. n., H. sumo sp. n., H. szepligeti sp. n., H. terrabas sp. n., H. thereospilus sp. n., H. tobiasi sp. n., H. tolupan sp. n., H. townesi sp. n., H. trece sp. n., H. tres sp. n., H. tricolor sp. n., H. trienta sp. n., H. tuberculatus sp. n., H. turrialbaensis sp. n., H. tzutujil sp. n., H. ugaldei sp. n., H. uno sp. n., H. variabilis sp. n., H. veinte sp. n., H. veintidos sp. n., H. veintitres sp. n., H. veintiuno sp. n., H. vierecki sp. n., H. villegasi sp. n., H. vittatus sp. n., H. vulcanus sp. n., H. wahli sp. n., H. warreni sp. n., H. washingtoni sp. n., H. wesmaeli sp. n., H. whartoni sp. n., H. whitfieldi sp. n., H. wildi sp. n., H. wilkinsoni sp. n., H. wrightae sp. n., H. xanthus sp. n., H. xerxes sp. n., H. xinca sp. n., H. yaqui sp. n., H. ypsilon sp. n., H. zapotec sp. n., H. zeus sp. n., H. zitaniae sp. n., H. zoque sp. n., H. zunigai sp. n., H. zurquiensis sp. n. One new combination is proposed, Pioscelus costaricensis (Marsh) comb. n.

  12. Transforming the Security Classification System

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-11-01

    report, the Board heard from the following individuals and groups: • Steve Aftergood, Senior Research Analyst, Project on Government Secrecy...National Intelligence, ODNI H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H 36 | PUBLIC INTEREST DECLASSIFICATION B OARD • Steve Henry...Deputy Associate Director for Community Integration, Policy and Records, NSA • Vincent Jarvie , Vice President for Corporate Security, L3

  13. Developmental Toxicity (Segment II) Study of WR242511 in Rabbits

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-12-02

    u Cd H H CJ CJ U W H H u u a a Q a Cd H H H CJ CJ W Cd H H Cd cd Q Q Q Q Ed Cd H H CJ CJ Cd Cd fr > H Cd Cd a Q a a Q Cd Cd Cd...H H H CJ CJ CJ Cd Cd Cd H H H Cd Cd Cd a a a a a a a a a a Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd H fr > H fn H H H CJ CJ CJ CJ CJ CJ CJ Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd...H H H H fr « H H Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd Cd a a a a a a a cacocototQcococQcococococacoco CdCdCdCdCdtdCdCdCdCdCdCdCdCdCd HHMMHHHHHMMHMHH E-HHHE-HHHHE-<E

  14. A Theoretical Development of a Multicarrier Wireless Relay System and a Practical Exploration of Full-Duplex Radio Communication

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-01

    analyzed the performance of full-duplex MIMO OFDM transceivers under non-ideal ADCs. In [62], impact of thermal noise on full-duplex radio was...h12 ∗ h23 − h22 ∗ h13 h12 ∗ h24 − h22 ∗ h14 h21 ∗ h13 − h11 ∗ h23 h21 ∗ h14 − h11 ∗ h24 h22 ∗ h11 − h12 ∗ h21 0 0 h22 ∗ h11 − h12 ∗ h21...with complex model for fullduplex can be de- scribed as the following equation: xc =  xar xai xbr xbi  =  h13

  15. Deviation between the chemistry of Ce(IV) and Pu(IV) and routes to ordered and disordered heterobimetallic 4f/5f and 5f/5f phosphonates.

    PubMed

    Diwu, Juan; Wang, Shuao; Good, Justin J; DiStefano, Victoria H; Albrecht-Schmitt, Thomas E

    2011-06-06

    The heterobimetallic actinide compound UO(2)Ce(H(2)O)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](2)·H(2)O was prepared via the hydrothermal reaction of U(VI) and Ce(IV) in the presence of 1,2-phenylenediphosphonic acid. We demonstrate that this is a kinetic product that is not stable with respect to decomposition to the monometallic compounds. Similar reactions have been explored with U(VI) and Ce(III), resulting in the oxidation of Ce(III) to Ce(IV) and the formation of the Ce(IV) phosphonate, Ce[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O, UO(2)Ce(H(2)O)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](2)·H(2)O, and UO(2)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](H(2)O)·H(2)O. In comparison, the reaction of U(VI) with Np(VI) only yields Np[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](2)·2H(2)O and aqueous U(VI), whereas the reaction of U(VI) with Pu(VI) yields the disordered U(VI)/Pu(VI) compound, (U(0.9)Pu(0.1))O(2)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](H(2)O)·H(2)O, and the Pu(IV) phosphonate, Pu[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O. The reactions of Ce(IV) with Np(VI) yield disordered heterobimetallic phosphonates with both M[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O (M = Ce, Np) and M[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](2)·2H(2)O (M = Ce, Np) structures, as well as the Ce(IV) phosphonate Ce[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O. Ce(IV) reacts with Pu(IV) to yield the Pu(VI) compound, PuO(2)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](H(2)O)·3H(2)O, and a disordered heterobimetallic Pu(IV)/Ce(IV) compound with the M[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O (M = Ce, Pu) structure. Mixtures of Np(VI) and Pu(VI) yield disordered heterobimetallic Np(IV)/Pu(IV) phosphonates with both the An[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3)H(2))][C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(PO(3))]·2H(2)O (M = Np, Pu) and An[C(6)H(4)(PO(3)H)(2)](2)·2H(2)O (M = Np, Pu) formulas. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  16. Post-translational modifications of linker histone H1 variants in mammals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Starkova, T. Yu; Polyanichko, A. M.; Artamonova, T. O.; Khodorkovskii, M. A.; Kostyleva, E. I.; Chikhirzhina, E. V.; Tomilin, A. N.

    2017-02-01

    The covalent modifications of the linker histone H1 and the core histones are thought to play an important role in the control of chromatin functioning. Histone H1 variants from K562 cell line (hH1), mouse (mH1) and calf (cH1) thymi were studied by matrix-activated laser desorption/ionization fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass-spectroscopy (MALDI-FT-ICR-MS). The proteomics analysis revealed novel post-translational modifications of the histone H1, such as meK34-mH1.4, meK35-cH1.1, meK35-mH1.1, meK75-hH1.2, meK75-hH1.3, acK26-hH1.4, acK26-hH1.3 and acK17-hH1.1. The comparison of the hH1, mH1 and cH1 proteins has demonstrated that the types and positions of the post-translational modifications of the globular domains of the H1.2-H1.4 variants are very conservative. However, the post-translational modifications of the N- and C-terminal tails of H1.2, H1.3 and H1.4 are different. The differences of post-translational modifications in the N- and C-terminal tails of H1.2, H1.3 and H1.4 likely lead to the differences in DNA-H1 and H1-protein interactions.

  17. Composite Unit Accelerated Life Test of the High Gain Array

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-01-08

    9.10 10.53 H12 6.27 6.13 6.41 644 6.49 6.16 1112 106 10. 0,64 10.64 10.66 10.68 10.70 H13 &82 6.30 6.68 6.76 6.35 6.35 H13 10,75 10.74 10.74 10.20...82.88 91.17 91.60 90.90 H12 13849 13-280 13872 13834 12119 13882 H13 92.63 85.00 83.58 94.45 92.68 93.41 H13 14219 14421 13929 16008 12347 14327 H14...H2, H3, H4, H9, H17, and H18 " Elements With Dry Out Recovery: H1, H8, Hl, H12, H13 , H14, and H16 " Elements With No Dry Out Recovery: H5, H6, H19

  18. NASA TEERM Hexavalent Chrome Alternatives Projects

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-08-18

    1 N2-2 N3-2 N4-2 N5-2 N6-2 N7-2 N8-2 N9-2 N10-2 N11-2 N12-2 N13-2 H H2-1 H3-1 H4-1 H5-1 H6-1 H7-1 H8-1 H9-1 H10-1 H11-1 H12-1 H13 -1 H2-2 H3-2 H4-2...H5-2 H6-2 H7-2 H8-2 H9-2 H10-2 H11-2 H12-2 H13 -2 D D2-1 D3-1 D4-1 D5-1 D6-1 D7-1 D8-1 D9-1 D10-1 D11-1 D12-1 D13-1 D2-2 D3-2 D4-2 D5-2 D6-2 D7-2...Color, Adhesion, Impact , Flexibility, Fluid Resistance, Filiform Corrosion, Salt-Spray Corrosion, Artificial Weathering, Stripability, Restoration

  19. A Novel RNA Helicase Inhibitor to Treat Breast Cancer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-08-01

    h r 24 h r 48 h ...r 72 h r 12 h r 24 h r 48 h r 72 h r NZ-51 DDX3 E-cadherin Actin M DA -M B- 23 1 DMSO 12 h r 24 h r 48 h r 72 h r 12 h r 24... h r 48 h r 72 h r NZ-51 DDX3 Actin E2+ DDX3 E2+NZ51 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 R el at iv e

  20. Molecular determinants for the high constitutive activity of the human histamine H4 receptor: functional studies on orthologues and mutants

    PubMed Central

    Wifling, D; Löffel, K; Nordemann, U; Strasser, A; Bernhardt, G; Dove, S; Seifert, R; Buschauer, A

    2015-01-01

    Background and Purpose Some histamine H4 receptor ligands act as inverse agonists at the human H4 receptor (hH4R), a receptor with exceptionally high constitutive activity, but as neutral antagonists or partial agonists at the constitutively inactive mouse H4 receptor (mH4R) and rat H4 receptor (rH4R). To study molecular determinants of constitutive activity, H4 receptor reciprocal mutants were constructed: single mutants: hH4R-F169V, mH4R-V171F, hH4R-S179A, hH4R-S179M; double mutants: hH4R-F169V+S179A, hH4R-F169V+S179M and mH4R-V171F+M181S. Experimental Approach Site-directed mutagenesis with pVL1392 plasmids containing hH4 or mH4 receptors were performed. Wild-type or mutant receptors were co-expressed with Gαi2 and Gβ1γ2 in Sf9 cells. Membranes were studied in saturation and competition binding assays ([3H]-histamine), and in functional [35S]-GTPγS assays with inverse, partial and full agonists of the hH4 receptor. Key Results Constitutive activity decreased from the hH4 receptor via the hH4R-F169V mutant to the hH4R-F169V+S179A and hH4R-F169V+S179M double mutants. F169 alone or in concert with S179 plays a major role in stabilizing a ligand-free active state of the hH4 receptor. Partial inverse hH4 receptor agonists like JNJ7777120 behaved as neutral antagonists or partial agonists at species orthologues with lower or no constitutive activity. Some partial and full hH4 receptor agonists showed decreased maximal effects and potencies at hH4R-F169V and double mutants. However, the mutation of S179 in the hH4 receptor to M as in mH4 receptor or A as in rH4 receptor did not significantly reduce constitutive activity. Conclusions and Implications F169 and S179 are key amino acids for the high constitutive activity of hH4 receptors and may also be of relevance for other constitutively active GPCRs. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed issue on Histamine Pharmacology Update published in volume 170 issue 1. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.2013.170.issue-1/issuetoc PMID:24903527

  1. Department of the Navy Fiscal Year (FY) 2000/2001 Biennial Budget Estimates, Justification of Estimates, February 1999 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Navy Budget Activity 5.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1999-02-01

    jjAi id ß g§s(ö rH^^-H ■J a) wm 4J ft & ü o o P .y rHrH id CDrH (D 0, > id 01 _Ö <D pQw > a oi rr) OCD lj 01a id *^r5 CD ft...Old cu-O § d id u cu •H u d co P P CD 3 M Ol O rH -H (D &CÜH43P CD 5H d CtJ d CDrH CU O PrH P ■O CO d-H CD d U-H s ^ Id CD QH...H P CN CD P P I -H <D drH EH M43 CDrH H O P-H 10 CD S-0 >iP PS drH g IdrH > CD CD Id Ol Ä4JJJ3S P 01 CU C0-H >ld"H Ol

  2. Cleanup Verification Package for the 118-H-6:2, 105-H Reactor Ancillary Support Areas, Below-Grade Structures, and Underlying Soils; the 118-H-6:3, 105-H Reactor Fuel Storage Basin and Underlying Soils; The 118-H-6:3 Fuel Storage Basin Deep Zone Side Slope Soils; the 100-H-9, 100-H-10, and 100-H-13 French Drains; the 100-H-11 and 100-H-12 Expansion Box French Drains; and the 100-H-14 and 100-H-31 Surface Contamination Zones

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    M. J. Appel

    2006-06-29

    This cleanup verification package documents completion of removal actions for the 105-H Reactor Ancillary Support Areas, Below-Grade Structures, and Underlying Soils (subsite 118-H-6:2); 105-H Reactor Fuel Storage Basin and Underlying Soils (118-H-6:3); and Fuel Storage Basin Deep Zone Side Slope Soils. This CVP also documents remedial actions for the following seven additional waste sties: French Drain C (100-H-9), French Drain D (100-H-10), Expansion Box French Drain E (100-H-11), Expansion Box French Drain F (100-H-12), French Drain G (100-H-13), Surface Contamination Zone H (100-H-14), and the Polychlorinated Biphenyl Surface Contamination Zone (100-H-31).

  3. Virulence analysis of Hessian fly populations from Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

    PubMed

    Chen, Ming-Shun; Echegaray, Erik; Whitworth, R Jeffrey; Wang, Haiyan; Sloderbeck, Phillip E; Knutson, Allen; Giles, Kristopher L; Royer, Tom A

    2009-04-01

    In recent years, the number of wheat, Triticum aestivum L., fields heavily infested by Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), has increased in the Great Plains of the United States. Historically, resistance genes in wheat have been the most efficient means of controlling this insect pest. To determine which resistance genes are still effective in this area, virulence of six Hessian fly populations from Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas was determined, using the resistance genes H3, H4, H5, H6, H7H8, H9, H10, H11, H12, H13, H16, H17, H18, H21, H22, H23, H24, H25, H26, H31, and Hdic. Five of the tested genes, H13, H21, H25, H26, and Hdic, conferred high levels of resistance (> 80% of plants scored resistant) to all tested populations. Resistance levels for other genes varied depending on which Hessian fly population they were tested against. Biotype composition analysis of insects collected directly from wheat fields in Grayson County, TX, revealed that the proportion of individuals within this population virulent to the major resistance genes was highly variable (89% for H6, 58% for H9, 28% for H5, 22% for H26, 15% for H3, 9% for H18, 4% for H21, and 0% for H13). Results also revealed that the percentages of biotypes virulent to specific resistance genes in a given population are highly correlated (r2 = 0.97) with the percentages of susceptible plants in a virulence test. This suggests that virulence assays, which require less time and effort, can be used to approximate biotype composition.

  4. Histidine168 is crucial for ΔpH-dependent gating of the human voltage-gated proton channel, hHV1.

    PubMed

    Cherny, Vladimir V; Morgan, Deri; Thomas, Sarah; Smith, Susan M E; DeCoursey, Thomas E

    2018-05-09

    We recently identified a voltage-gated proton channel gene in the snail Helisoma trivolvis , HtH V 1, and determined its electrophysiological properties. Consistent with early studies of proton currents in snail neurons, HtH V 1 opens rapidly, but it unexpectedly exhibits uniquely defective sensitivity to intracellular pH (pH i ). The H + conductance ( g H )- V relationship in the voltage-gated proton channel (H V 1) from other species shifts 40 mV when either pH i or pH o (extracellular pH) is changed by 1 unit. This property, called ΔpH-dependent gating, is crucial to the functions of H V 1 in many species and in numerous human tissues. The HtH V 1 channel exhibits normal pH o dependence but anomalously weak pH i dependence. In this study, we show that a single point mutation in human hH V 1-changing His 168 to Gln 168 , the corresponding residue in HtH V 1-compromises the pH i dependence of gating in the human channel so that it recapitulates the HtH V 1 response. This location was previously identified as a contributor to the rapid gating kinetics of H V 1 in Strongylocentrotus purpuratus His 168 mutation in human H V 1 accelerates activation but accounts for only a fraction of the species difference. H168Q, H168S, or H168T mutants exhibit normal pH o dependence, but changing pH i shifts the g H - V relationship on average by <20 mV/unit. Thus, His 168 is critical to pH i sensing in hH V 1. His 168 , located at the inner end of the pore on the S3 transmembrane helix, is the first residue identified in H V 1 that significantly impairs pH sensing when mutated. Because pH o dependence remains intact, the selective erosion of pH i dependence supports the idea that there are distinct internal and external pH sensors. Although His 168 may itself be a pH i sensor, the converse mutation, Q229H, does not normalize the pH i sensitivity of the HtH V 1 channel. We hypothesize that the imidazole group of His 168 interacts with nearby Phe 165 or other parts of hH V 1 to transduce pH i into shifts of voltage-dependent gating. © 2018 Cherny et al.

  5. Himasthla escamosa n. sp. (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) from the kelp gull, Larus dominicanus (Charadriiformes: Laridae), on the Patagonian coast, Argentina.

    PubMed

    Diaz, Julia I; Cremonte, Florencia

    2004-04-01

    In this article, we describe a new species of Himasthla Dietz, 1909 (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) from Larus dominicanus Lichtenstein (Aves: Laridae) in northern Patagonia, Argentina. We also describe the hosts, localities, and key diagnostic features and the measurements of the so far 25 described species. Of these species. Himasthla militaris, H. leptosoma, H. elongata, H. secunda, H. megacotyla, H. multilecithosa, H. piscicola, H. compacta, H. schachtachtinskoi, H. littorinae, H. continua, H. avosettae, and H. interrupta are similar to H. escamosa n. sp. in having 29 head collar spines. Himasthla leptosoma, H. piscicola, H. multilecithosa, H. interrupta, H. continua, and H. militaris can be differentiated from the new species mainly by the extension of the vitellaria. Himasthla avosettae, H. megacotyla, H. elongata, H. compacta, and H. littorinae have a different size or arrangement (or both) of head collar spines compared with H. escamosa. Himasthla secunda can be distinguished from H. escamosa n. sp. in having a larger body, testes, and ovary and a different position of the ovary. The comparison with H. schachtachtinskoi could not be done because the bibliography was not available. This is the first record of the genus in Argentina and from L. dominicanus.

  6. AN ALTERNATIVE METHOD FOR RELATING MACROSCOPIC TO MICROSCOPIC ACIDITY CONSTANTS WITH ZWITTERIONIC SPECIES

    EPA Science Inventory

    Using the notation of Adams (1916. JACS, 38:1503), zwitterionic microscopic acidity constants defined by: ka = [H+] [+H3NRCOO-]/ [+H3NRCOOH]; kb = [H+] [H2NRCOOH]/ [+H3NRCOOH]; kc = [H+] [H2NRCOO-]/ [+H3NRCOO-]; and kd = [H+] [H2NRCOO-]/ [H2NRCOOH] are historically related to th...

  7. Applied Mathematical Modules for Use in a Linear Algebra Service Course

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-05-01

    H . (1977). Elements of ohysical chemistry. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley. Rorres , C . & Anton , H . (1984). Applications...k t)r+ v𔃽 A142"+ c -- + C Vt +1 t+ C c tKc cos t 2= 113 123 313 32-3 51 2 V - cu-14sin r t) 232 _E _ VL3 h 3kx3 Cl t + c1 _3 t c + 3 =11-3 12 3 31 6... H " O H H H o 0 0 H H H H H H Ao, //o\\ H HH H

  8. Contemporary Avian Influenza A Virus Subtype H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 Hemagglutinin Genes Encode a Mammalian Virulence Factor Similar to the 1918 Pandemic Virus H1 Hemagglutinin

    PubMed Central

    Qi, Li; Pujanauski, Lindsey M.; Davis, A. Sally; Schwartzman, Louis M.; Chertow, Daniel S.; Baxter, David; Scherler, Kelsey; Hartshorn, Kevan L.; Slemons, Richard D.; Walters, Kathie-Anne; Kash, John C.

    2014-01-01

    ABSTRACT Zoonotic avian influenza virus infections may lead to epidemics or pandemics. The 1918 pandemic influenza virus has an avian influenza virus-like genome, and its H1 hemagglutinin was identified as a key mammalian virulence factor. A chimeric 1918 virus expressing a contemporary avian H1 hemagglutinin, however, displayed murine pathogenicity indistinguishable from that of the 1918 virus. Here, isogenic chimeric avian influenza viruses were constructed on an avian influenza virus backbone, differing only by hemagglutinin subtype expressed. Viruses expressing the avian H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 subtypes were pathogenic in mice and cytopathic in normal human bronchial epithelial cells, in contrast to H2-, H3-, H5-, H9-, H11-, H13-, H14-, and H16-expressing viruses. Mouse pathogenicity was associated with pulmonary macrophage and neutrophil recruitment. These data suggest that avian influenza virus hemagglutinins H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 contain inherent mammalian virulence factors and likely share a key virulence property of the 1918 virus. Consequently, zoonotic infections with avian influenza viruses bearing one of these hemagglutinins may cause enhanced disease in mammals. PMID:25406382

  9. Fatigue Sensor Evaluation Program Laboratory Test Report.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-10-01

    Temp 2.2 +150 to -50°F, Alum Specimen 2.5 ±150 to -50°F, Steel Specimen 2.5 Rerun of Test #1 2.1 Load levels indicated are in units of...1050 +150 6 Hll ±450 +800 +1250 +350 1 H12 ±500 -400 +100 -900 1 H13 ±500 0 +500 -500 2 H14 ±500 +200 +700 -300 1 H15 ±500 +600 +1100 +100 6 H16...IDENT. HA HB HC HD HE HF HG HH HI HJ LO AD BL OC K NU MB ER S PE R TA BL E 9 H10 H10 H24~’ H14 ’ H29 H17 H17 ’ H13 H18 H17 H24 H22 H12 HI H3

  10. Anti-H-Y responses of H-2b mutant mice.

    PubMed

    Simpson, E; Gordon, R D; Chandler, P R; Bailey, D

    1978-10-01

    Two strains of H-2b mutant mice, H-2ba and H-2bf, in which the mutational event took place at H-2K, make anti-H-Y cytotoxic T cell responses which are H-2-restricted, Db-associated and indistinguishable in target cell specificity from those of H-2b mice. Thus, alteration of the H-2K molecule affects neither the Ir gene controlling the response, nor the associative antigen. On the other hand, one H-2Db mutant strain, H-2bo, although it makes a good anti-H-Y cytotoxic response, shows target cell specificity restricted to its own Dbo antigen(s), and neither H-2b, H-2ba or H-2bf anti-H-Y cytotoxic cells kill H-2bo male target cells. Thus, the alteration of the H-2Db molecule does not affect the Ir gene of H-2b mice, but it does alter the H-2Db-associative antigen.

  11. FY 1980 Report on Dye Laser Materials

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-02-01

    C02H H Rh 19 H C2H 5 CH3 CO9H H i Rh6G H C2H 5 CH3 Co2 C2H5 H RhB C2H5 C2H!5 H CO,H H Rh3B C2A5 C2H5 H CO2CH 5 H Rh 101 RING- RING RING...Dye designations Ring SRh 101 Rh 101 - Diethyl SRh B Rh B Rhb 3B Mono ethyl (methyl) -- Rh 19 (116) Rh 6G Unsubstituted -- Rh 110 Rh 123 Nominal Single...Broadband Lasing Wave-lengths of the Rhodamine Dyes. Lasing Wavelength, n Approximate Dye Conc. x 104 Range Midpoint Rh 110 1.0 567-577 572 2.0 Rh 123

  12. Dissociative photoionization of 1,3-butadiene: experimental and theoretical insights.

    PubMed

    Fang, Wenzheng; Gong, Lei; Zhang, Qiang; Shan, Xiaobin; Liu, Fuyi; Wang, Zhenya; Sheng, Liusi

    2011-05-07

    The vacuum-ultraviolet photoionization and dissociative photoionization of 1,3-butadiene in a region ∼8.5-17 eV have been investigated with time-of-flight photoionization mass spectrometry using tunable synchrotron radiation. The adiabatic ionization energy of 1,3-butadiene and appearance energies for its fragment ions, C(4)H(5)(+), C(4)H(4)(+), C(4)H(3)(+), C(3)H(3)(+), C(2)H(4)(+), C(2)H(3)(+), and C(2)H(2)(+), are determined to be 9.09, 11.72, 13.11, 15.20, 11.50, 12.44, 15.15, and 15.14 eV, respectively, by measurements of photoionization efficiency spectra. Ab initio molecular orbital calculations have been performed to investigate the reaction mechanism of dissociative photoionization of 1,3-butadiene. On the basis of experimental and theoretical results, seven dissociative photoionization channels are proposed: C(4)H(5)(+) + H, C(4)H(4)(+) + H(2), C(4)H(3)(+) + H(2) + H, C(3)H(3)(+) + CH(3), C(2)H(4)(+) + C(2)H(2), C(2)H(3)(+) + C(2)H(2) + H, and C(2)H(2)(+) + C(2)H(2) + H(2). Channel C(3)H(3)(+) + CH(3) is found to be the dominant one, followed by C(4)H(5)(+) + H and C(2)H(4)(+) + C(2)H(2). The majority of these channels occur via isomerization prior to dissociation. Transition structures and intermediates for those isomerization processes were also determined.

  13. Department of the Navy Fiscal Year (FY) 2000/2001 Biennial Budget Estimates, Justification of Estimates, February 1999 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Navy Budget Activity 6.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1999-02-01

    g o o rd-H S 4-1 O M o id o ■H fi u a-H CDrH •H tn Q H >i fc ftU ■H i tn O o g o a o) o „ fi-H Ä-0 - $ H * H 01 O H 4J 4J 0 u...CJ CO fi fi-H g E> Q \\ fi S fi 1 <D,fi T) CDrH ^ Id W rH CO * o • _ Q o H O fi co „, <" •H O 4-1 x! o> fi JJ (D a o 0 >H in i

  14. Derivation of the P2T Criterion (in Closed Form) Based on the Frey Shear Band Mechanism

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-01-01

    max 6d/d = G (12) max o u Pil < o .tlllilltt, >. X !5 < Q: o W) TJ C rH CU •H ed •P in -H 03 W 4-" FH cd C 03 Cu <U P...C 3 -H 10 T3 cd T3 O H s h ♦J 03 PH If) X3 -d rH fH ^H ed 03 OJ -H (1) •H -t-i Xi MH -H in c X’H <D ■M 43 • H 0 +J O...P o c a> rH X! 0 M 03 w C M •H O 03 u S & K <u TO S 0) +-> FH O ^—^ o3 W) y ^ cd i S: •H -H O -d T3 T3 iH CD *W P O nj

  15. H6+ in irradiated solid para-hydrogen and its decay dynamics: reinvestigation of quartet electron paramagnetic resonance lines assigned to H2-.

    PubMed

    Kumada, Takayuki; Tachikawa, Hiroto; Takayanagi, Toshiyuki

    2005-03-07

    The quartet electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) lines observed in gamma- and X-ray irradiated solid para-H2, which have previously been assigned to H2-, are reinvestigated. We have reassigned the quartet lines to H6 rather than H2- mainly due to comparison of experimentally obtained EPR parameters to theoretical results. Based on the new assignment, trapping site, rotation, ortho-para conversion, quantum diffusion and isotope effect of H+ have been reinterpreted by the precise reanalysis as follows. The H6+ ion is composed of the collinearly aligned H2+ core at the center and two H2 rotors at both ends, occupies a single substitutional site, and has a precession motion around a crystalline axis with the angle of approximately 57 degrees. The ortho-para conversion of H2+ core of H6+ is completed within the time-scale of hours, whereas ortho-H2 molecules near H6+ convert much faster. H6+ diffuses quantum mechanically by the repetition of H6+ + H2 --> H2 + H6+ reaction. The diffusion terminates by the reaction, H6(+) + HD --> H5D(+) + H2, with a HD impurity contained in the para-H2 sample at natural abundance. Finally, we will propose a possible reason why H6+ is produced instead of H3+ in the irradiated solid H2.

  16. Vibrational Spectra of Tetrahedral Fullerenes.

    PubMed

    Cheng; Li; Tang

    1999-01-01

    From the topological structures of the following classes of tetrahedral fullerenes-(1) Cn(h, h; -i, i), Cn(h, 0; -i, 2i), Cn(2h + i, -h + i; i, i), Cn(h - i, h + 2i; -i, 2i), and Cn(h, i; 0, i) for Td symmetry; (2) Cn(h, k; k, h), Cn(h, k; -h - k, k), and Cn(h, k; -h, h + k) for Th symmetry; (3) Cn(h, k; i, j) for T symmetry-we have obtained theoretically the formulas for the numbers of their IR and Raman active modes for all of the tetrahedral fullerenes through the decomposition of their nuclear motions into irreducible representations by means of group theory. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

  17. CO-Bridged H-Cluster Intermediates in the Catalytic Mechanism of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase CaI.

    PubMed

    Ratzloff, Michael W; Artz, Jacob H; Mulder, David W; Collins, Reuben T; Furtak, Thomas E; King, Paul W

    2018-06-20

    The [FeFe]-hydrogenases ([FeFe] H 2 ases) catalyze reversible H 2 activation at the H-cluster, which is composed of a [4Fe-4S] H subsite linked by a cysteine thiolate to a bridged, organometallic [2Fe-2S] ([2Fe] H ) subsite. Profoundly different geometric models of the H-cluster redox states that orchestrate the electron/proton transfer steps of H 2 bond activation have been proposed. We have examined this question in the [FeFe] H 2 ase I from Clostridium acetobutylicum (CaI) by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with temperature annealing and H/D isotope exchange to identify the relevant redox states and define catalytic transitions. One-electron reduction of H ox led to formation of H red H + ([4Fe-4S] H 2+ -Fe I -Fe I ) and H red ' ([4Fe-4S] H 1+ -Fe II -Fe I ), with both states characterized by low frequency μ-CO IR modes consistent with a fully bridged [2Fe] H . Similar μ-CO IR modes were also identified for H red H + of the [FeFe] H 2 ase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CrHydA1). The CaI proton-transfer variant C298S showed enrichment of an H/D isotope-sensitive μ-CO mode, a component of the hydride bound H-cluster IR signal, H hyd . Equilibrating CaI with increasing amounts of NaDT, and probed at cryogenic temperatures, showed H red H + was converted to H hyd . Over an increasing temperature range from 10 to 260 K catalytic turnover led to loss of H hyd and appearance of H ox , consistent with enzymatic turnover and H 2 formation. The results show for CaI that the μ-CO of [2Fe] H remains bridging for all of the "H red " states and that H red H + is on pathway to H hyd and H 2 evolution in the catalytic mechanism. These results provide a blueprint for designing small molecule catalytic analogs.

  18. CAF-1-induced oligomerization of histones H3/H4 and mutually exclusive interactions with Asf1 guide H3/H4 transitions among histone chaperones and DNA

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Wallace H.; Roemer, Sarah C.; Port, Alex M.; Churchill, Mair E. A.

    2012-01-01

    Anti-silencing function 1 (Asf1) and Chromatin Assembly Factor 1 (CAF-1) chaperone histones H3/H4 during the assembly of nucleosomes on newly replicated DNA. To understand the mechanism of histone H3/H4 transfer among Asf1, CAF-1 and DNA from a thermodynamic perspective, we developed and employed biophysical approaches using full-length proteins in the budding yeast system. We find that the C-terminal tail of Asf1 enhances the interaction of Asf1 with CAF-1. Surprisingly, although H3/H4 also enhances the interaction of Asf1 with the CAF-1 subunit Cac2, H3/H4 forms a tight complex with CAF-1 exclusive of Asf1, with an affinity weaker than Asf1–H3/H4 or H3/H4–DNA interactions. Unlike Asf1, monomeric CAF-1 binds to multiple H3/H4 dimers, which ultimately promotes the formation of (H3/H4)2 tetramers on DNA. Thus, transition of H3/H4 from the Asf1-associated dimer to the DNA-associated tetramer is promoted by CAF-1-induced H3/H4 oligomerization. PMID:23034810

  19. Cross-reactivity between avian influenza A (H7N9) virus and divergent H7 subtypic- and heterosubtypic influenza A viruses

    PubMed Central

    Guo, Li; Wang, Dayan; Zhou, Hongli; Wu, Chao; Gao, Xin; Xiao, Yan; Ren, Lili; Paranhos-Baccalà, Gláucia; Shu, Yuelong; Jin, Qi; Wang, Jianwei

    2016-01-01

    The number of human avian H7N9 influenza infections has been increasing in China. Understanding their antigenic and serologic relationships is crucial for developing diagnostic tools and vaccines. Here, we evaluated the cross-reactivities and neutralizing activities among H7 subtype influenza viruses and between H7N9 and heterosubtype influenza A viruses. We found strong cross-reactivities between H7N9 and divergent H7 subtypic viruses, including H7N2, H7N3, and H7N7. Antisera against H7N2, H7N3, and H7N7 could also effectively neutralize two distinct H7N9 strains. Two-way cross-reactivities exist within group 2, including H3 and H4, whereas one-way cross-reactivities were found across other groups, including H1, H10, H9, and H13. Our data indicate that the hemaglutinins from divergent H7 subtypes may facilitate the development of vaccines for distinct H7N9 infections. Moreover, serologic diagnoses for H7N9 infections need to consider possible interference from the cross-reactivity of H7N9 with other subtype influenza viruses. PMID:26907865

  20. Cross-reactivity between avian influenza A (H7N9) virus and divergent H7 subtypic- and heterosubtypic influenza A viruses.

    PubMed

    Guo, Li; Wang, Dayan; Zhou, Hongli; Wu, Chao; Gao, Xin; Xiao, Yan; Ren, Lili; Paranhos-Baccalà, Gláucia; Shu, Yuelong; Jin, Qi; Wang, Jianwei

    2016-02-24

    The number of human avian H7N9 influenza infections has been increasing in China. Understanding their antigenic and serologic relationships is crucial for developing diagnostic tools and vaccines. Here, we evaluated the cross-reactivities and neutralizing activities among H7 subtype influenza viruses and between H7N9 and heterosubtype influenza A viruses. We found strong cross-reactivities between H7N9 and divergent H7 subtypic viruses, including H7N2, H7N3, and H7N7. Antisera against H7N2, H7N3, and H7N7 could also effectively neutralize two distinct H7N9 strains. Two-way cross-reactivities exist within group 2, including H3 and H4, whereas one-way cross-reactivities were found across other groups, including H1, H10, H9, and H13. Our data indicate that the hemaglutinins from divergent H7 subtypes may facilitate the development of vaccines for distinct H7N9 infections. Moreover, serologic diagnoses for H7N9 infections need to consider possible interference from the cross-reactivity of H7N9 with other subtype influenza viruses.

  1. Comparison of two hyoscyamine 6β-hydroxylases in engineering scopolamine biosynthesis in root cultures of Scopolia lurida.

    PubMed

    Lan, Xiaozhong; Zeng, Junlan; Liu, Ke; Zhang, Fangyuan; Bai, Ge; Chen, Min; Liao, Zhihua; Huang, Luqi

    2018-02-26

    Scopolia lurida, a medicinal plant native to the Tibetan Plateau, is among the most effective producers of pharmaceutical tropane alkaloids (TAs). The hyoscyamine 6β-hydroxylase genes of Hyoscyamus niger (HnH6H) and S. lurida (SlH6H) were cloned and respectively overexpressed in hairy root cultures of S. lurida, to compare their effects on promoting the production of TAs, especially the high-value scopolamine. Root cultures with SlH6H/HnH6H overexpression were confirmed by PCR and real-time quantitative PCR, suggesting that the enzymatic steps defined by H6H were strongly elevated at the transcriptional level. Tropane alkaloids, including hyoscyamine, anisodamine and scopolamine, were analyzed by HPLC. Scopolamine and anisodamine contents were remarkably elevated in the root cultures overexpressing SlH6H/HnH6H, whereas that of hyoscyamine was more or less reduced, when compared with those of the control. These results also indicated that SlH6H and HnH6H promoted anisodamine production at similar levels in S. lurida root cultures. More importantly, HnH6H-overexpressing root cultures had more scopolamine in them that did SlH6H-overexpressing root cultures. This study not only provides a feasible way of overexpressing H6H to produce high-value scopolamine in engineered root cultures of S. lurida but also found that HnH6H was better than SlH6H for engineering scopolamine production. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Pork Quality Traits According to Postmortem pH and Temperature in Berkshire

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Tae Wan; Kim, Chul Wook; Yang, Mi Ra; No, Gun Ryoung; Kim, Il-Suk

    2016-01-01

    This study was performed to investigate the role of pH and temperature postmortem, and to demonstrate the importance of these factors in determining meat quality. Postmortem pH45min (pH at 45 min postmortem or initial pH) via analysis of Pearson’s correlation showed high positive correlation with pH change pHc24 (pH change from pH45min to pH24h postmortem). However, postmortem pH after 24 h (pH24h or ultimate pH) had a high negative correlation with pH change, pHc24, CIE L*, and protein content. Initial temperature postmortem (T1h ) was positively associated with a change in temperature from 45 min to 24 h postmortem (Tc24) and cooking loss, but negatively correlated with water holding capacity. Temperature at 24 h postmortem (T24h) was negatively associated with Tc24. Collectively, these results indicate that higher initial pH was associated with higher pHc24, T1h, and Tc24. However, higher initial pH was associated with a reduction in carcass weight, backfat thickness, CIE a* and b*, water holding capacity, collagen and fat content, drip loss, and cooking loss as well as decreased shear force. In contrast, CIE a* and b*, drip loss, cooking loss, and shear force in higher ultimate pH was showed by a similar pattern to higher initial pH, whereas pHc24, carcass weight, backfat thickness, water holding capacity, fat content, moisture content, protein content, T1h, T24h, and Tc24 were exhibited by completely differential patterns (p<0.05). Therefore, we suggest that initial pH, ultimate pH, and temperatures postmortem are important factors in determining the meat quality of pork. PMID:27499661

  3. 40 CFR 86.528-78 - Transmissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ...: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 19 km/h (11.8 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 33 km/h (20.5 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 44 km/h (27.3 mi/h). 4th to 5th gear 53 km/h (32.9 mi/h). (2) For Class III motorcycles: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 30 km/h (18.6 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 45 km/h (28.0 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 60 km/h (37.3 mi/h...

  4. 40 CFR 86.528-78 - Transmissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ...: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 19 km/h (11.8 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 33 km/h (20.5 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 44 km/h (27.3 mi/h). 4th to 5th gear 53 km/h (32.9 mi/h). (2) For Class III motorcycles: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 30 km/h (18.6 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 45 km/h (28.0 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 60 km/h (37.3 mi/h...

  5. 40 CFR 86.528-78 - Transmissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 19 km/h (11.8 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 33 km/h (20.5 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 44 km/h (27.3 mi/h). 4th to 5th gear 53 km/h (32.9 mi/h). (2) For Class III motorcycles: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 30 km/h (18.6 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 45 km/h (28.0 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 60 km/h (37.3 mi/h...

  6. 40 CFR 86.528-78 - Transmissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ...: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 19 km/h (11.8 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 33 km/h (20.5 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 44 km/h (27.3 mi/h). 4th to 5th gear 53 km/h (32.9 mi/h). (2) For Class III motorcycles: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 30 km/h (18.6 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 45 km/h (28.0 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 60 km/h (37.3 mi/h...

  7. 40 CFR 86.528-78 - Transmissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 19 km/h (11.8 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 33 km/h (20.5 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 44 km/h (27.3 mi/h). 4th to 5th gear 53 km/h (32.9 mi/h). (2) For Class III motorcycles: Shift Speed 1st to 2d gear 30 km/h (18.6 mi/h). 2d to 3d gear 45 km/h (28.0 mi/h). 3d to 4th gear 60 km/h (37.3 mi/h...

  8. Dissociative photoionization of ethyl acrylate: Theoretical and experimental insights

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Yanlin; Chen, Jun; Ding, Mengmeng; Wei, Bin; Cao, Maoqi; Shan, Xiaobin; Zhao, Yujie; Huang, Chaoqun; Sheng, Liusi; Liu, Fuyi

    2015-08-01

    The photoionization and dissociation of ethyl acrylate have been investigated by time-of-flight mass spectrometer with tunable vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) source in the range of 9.0-20.0 eV. The photoionization mass spectrum (PIMS) for ethyl acrylate and photoionization efficiency (PIE) curves for its major fragment ions: C5H7O2+, C4H5O2+, C3H5O2+, C3H4O+, C3H3O+, C2H5O+, C2H3O+, C2H5+ and C2H4+ have been obtained. The formation channels of main fragments are predicted by Gaussian 09 program at G3B3 level and examined via their dissociation energies from experimental results. Based on our analysis, nine main dissociative photoionization channels are proposed: C5H7O2+ + H, C4H5O2+ + CH3, C3H5O2+ + C2H3, C3H4O+ + C2H4O, C3H3O+ + C2H5O, C2H5O+ + C3H3O, C2H3O+ + C3H5O, C2H5+ + C3H3O2, C2H4+ + C3H4O2, respectively. The results of this work lead to a better understanding of photochemistry in the environment.

  9. CO-Bridged H-Cluster Intermediates in the Catalytic Mechanism of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase CaI

    DOE PAGES

    Ratzloff, Michael W.; Artz, Jacob H.; Mulder, David W.; ...

    2018-05-23

    The [FeFe]-hydrogenases ([FeFe] H 2ases) catalyze reversible H 2 activation at the H-cluster, which is composed of a [4Fe-4S] H subsite linked by a cysteine thiolate to a bridged, organometallic [2Fe-2S] ([2Fe] H) subsite. Profoundly different geometric models of the H-cluster redox states that orchestrate the electron/proton transfer steps of H 2 bond activation have been proposed. We have examined this question in the [FeFe] H 2ase I from Clostridium acetobutylicum (CaI) by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with temperature annealing and H/D isotope exchange to identify the relevant redox states and define catalytic transitions. One-electron reduction of H ox ledmore » to formation of H redH + ([4Fe-4S] H 2+-Fe I-Fe I) and H red' ([4Fe-4S] H 1+-Fe II-Fe I), with both states characterized by low frequency μ-CO IR modes consistent with a fully bridged [2Fe] H. Similar μ-CO IR modes were also identified for H redH + of the [FeFe] H 2ase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CrHydA1). The CaI proton-transfer variant C298S showed enrichment of an H/D isotope-sensitive μ-CO mode, a component of the hydride bound H-cluster IR signal, H hyd. Equilibrating CaI with increasing amounts of NaDT, and probed at cryogenic temperatures, showed H redH + was converted to H hyd. Over an increasing temperature range from 10 to 260 K catalytic turnover led to loss of Hhyd and appearance of H ox, consistent with enzymatic turnover and H 2 formation. The results show for CaI that the μ-CO of [2Fe] H remains bridging for all of the 'H red' states and that H redH + is on pathway to H hyd and H 2 evolution in the catalytic mechanism. Here, this provides a blueprint for designing small molecule catalytic analogs« less

  10. CO-Bridged H-Cluster Intermediates in the Catalytic Mechanism of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase CaI

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ratzloff, Michael W.; Artz, Jacob H.; Mulder, David W.

    The [FeFe]-hydrogenases ([FeFe] H 2ases) catalyze reversible H 2 activation at the H-cluster, which is composed of a [4Fe-4S] H subsite linked by a cysteine thiolate to a bridged, organometallic [2Fe-2S] ([2Fe] H) subsite. Profoundly different geometric models of the H-cluster redox states that orchestrate the electron/proton transfer steps of H 2 bond activation have been proposed. We have examined this question in the [FeFe] H 2ase I from Clostridium acetobutylicum (CaI) by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with temperature annealing and H/D isotope exchange to identify the relevant redox states and define catalytic transitions. One-electron reduction of H ox ledmore » to formation of H redH + ([4Fe-4S] H 2+-Fe I-Fe I) and H red' ([4Fe-4S] H 1+-Fe II-Fe I), with both states characterized by low frequency μ-CO IR modes consistent with a fully bridged [2Fe] H. Similar μ-CO IR modes were also identified for H redH + of the [FeFe] H 2ase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CrHydA1). The CaI proton-transfer variant C298S showed enrichment of an H/D isotope-sensitive μ-CO mode, a component of the hydride bound H-cluster IR signal, H hyd. Equilibrating CaI with increasing amounts of NaDT, and probed at cryogenic temperatures, showed H redH + was converted to H hyd. Over an increasing temperature range from 10 to 260 K catalytic turnover led to loss of Hhyd and appearance of H ox, consistent with enzymatic turnover and H 2 formation. The results show for CaI that the μ-CO of [2Fe] H remains bridging for all of the 'H red' states and that H redH + is on pathway to H hyd and H 2 evolution in the catalytic mechanism. Here, this provides a blueprint for designing small molecule catalytic analogs« less

  11. Comparison of p.o. or i.v. proton pump inhibitors on 72-h intragastric pH in bleeding peptic ulcer.

    PubMed

    Javid, Gul; Zargar, Showkat Ali; U-Saif, Riyaz-; Khan, Bashir Ahmad; Yatoo, Ghulam Nabi; Shah, Altaf Hussain; Gulzar, Ghulam Mohammad; Sodhi, Jaswinder Singh; Khan, Mushtaq Ahmad

    2009-07-01

    After successful endoscopic hemostasis in bleeding peptic ulcer, addition of proton pump inhibitors reduce the rate of recurrent bleeding by maintaining intragastric pH at neutral level. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of various proton pump inhibitors given through different routes on intragastric pH over 72 h after endoscopic hemostasis in bleeding peptic ulcer. Ninety consecutive patients who had successful endoscopic therapy of bleeding peptic ulcer underwent 72-h continuous ambulatory intragastric pH study, were randomly assigned to receive p.o. omeprazole 80 mg bolus followed by 40 mg every 12 h for 72 h or i.v. 80 mg omeprazole followed by infusion 8 mg/h for 72 h. Oral pantoprazole 80 mg bolus followed by 80 mg every 12 h for 72 h or i.v. 80 mg pantoprazole followed by infusion of 8 mg/h for 72 h. Oral rabeprazole 80 mg bolus followed by 40 mg every 12 h for 72 h or i.v. 80 mg rabeprazole followed by infusion 8 mg/h for 72 h. Five patients received no treatment after successful endoscopic therapy and underwent 72-h pH study. Mean 72-h intragastric pH for p.o. omeprazole was 6.56 versus 6.93 for omeprazole infusion (P = 0.48). Mean 72-h intragastric pH for p.o. pantoprazole was 6.34 versus 6.32 for pantoprazole infusion (P = 0.62). Mean 72-h intragastric pH for rabeprazole p.o. was 6.11 versus 6.18 rabeprazole i.v. (P = 0.55). Mean 72-h pH for the no proton pump inhibitor group was 2.04. There was no significant difference among various proton pump inhibitors given through different routes on raising intragastric pH above 6 for 72 h after successful endoscopic hemostasis in bleeding peptic ulcer.

  12. Phylogenetic analysis of two single-copy nuclear genes revealed origin and complex relationships of polyploid species of Hordeum in Triticeae (Poaceae).

    PubMed

    Hu, Qianni; Sun, Genlou

    2017-06-01

    Two single-copy nuclear genes, the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2) and thioredoxin-like gene (HTL), were used to explore the phylogeny and origin of polyploid species in Hordeum. Our results were partly in accord with previous studies, but disclosed additional complexity. Both RPB2 and HTL trees confirmed the presence of Xa genome in H. capense and H. secalinum, and that H. depressum originated from H. californicum together with other American diploids, either H. intercedens or H. pusillum. American diploids solely contributed to the origin of H. depressum. The Asian diploids, either H. bogdanii or H. brevisubulatum, contributed to the formation of American polyploids except H. depressum. RPB2 and HTL sequences showed that H. roshevitzii did not contribute to the origin of American tetraploids. Our data showed a close relationship between the hexaploids H. procerum and H. parodii and the tetraploids H. brachyantherum, H. fuegianum, H. guatemalense, H. jubatum, and H. tetraploidum. The involvement of the diploid H. pusillum and the tetraploid H. jubatum in the formation of H. arizonicum was also indicated in the HTL phylogeny. Our results suggested a possible gene introgression of W- and P-genome species into the tetraploid H. jubatum and the hexaploid H. procerum.

  13. Investigation of the Effect of Some Optically Active Imine Compounds on the Enzyme Activities of hCA-I and hCA-II under In Vitro Conditions: An Experimental and Theoretical Study.

    PubMed

    Tektas, Osman; Akkemik, Ebru; Baykara, Haci

    2016-06-01

    Inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase (hCA; EC 4.2.1.1) are used as medicines for many diseases. Therefore, they are very important. In this study, a known series of Schiff bases were synthesized and their effects on the activities of hCA-I and hCA-II, which are cytosolic isoenzymes of carbonic anhydrase, were investigated under in vitro conditions. The synthesized compounds (H1, H2, H3, and H4) were found to cause inhibition on enzyme activities of hCA-1 and hCA-II. IC50 values of H1, H2, H3, and H4 compounds were 140, 88, 201, and 271 μM for hCA-I enzyme activity and 134, 251, 79, and 604 μM for hCA-II enzyme activity, respectively. The synthesized Schiff bases were characterized by several methods, including (1) H NMR, FT-IR, elemental analysis, and polarimetric measurements. Correlation coefficient square values (R(2) ) of comparison of the theoretical and experimental (1) H NMR shifts for H1, H2, H3, and H4 compounds were found as 0.9781, 0.9814, 0.9758, and 0.8635, respectively. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. General/Flag Officer Worldwide Roster, December 1986

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-12-01

    H O t- ON O o O H 00 H J" 00 00 00 cO H ON O ^r CO t>*- in ITN o o o O vH NO VD vo ^t CO CO CO CO 8 S § § o HHHHHH ^HHHH OOOOOOOOOOO...8 e § u. OS r.% ̂ l^J^,^^ a üJ H (0 O DC UJ a i D -I a O $ a UJ ü o -J < cc UJ z UJ o 8 HHHHHH <MHHr-»r-(HHH...4h-HN r4 r4 r4 T4 CM H O O OOOO o o CM <n t- H o m H H H O O H H O lT\\\\f\\)0 CM CO CO CO CO \\0 CM H H CO 00 CO GO HHHHHH -SON-H OOOOOOCMHHO

  15. Evidence of Intermediate Hydrogen States in the Formation of a Complex Hydride

    DOE PAGES

    Sato, Toyoto; Ramirez-Cuesta, Anibal J.; Daemen, Luke L.; ...

    2017-12-26

    A complex hydride (LaMg 2NiH 7) composed of La 3+, two Mg 2+, [NiH 4] 4– with a covalently bonded hydrogen, and three H – was formed from an intermetallic LaMg 2Ni via an intermediate phase (LaMg 2NiH 4.6) composed of La, Mg, NiH 2, NiH 3 units, and H atoms at tetrahedral sites. The NiH 2 and NiH 3 units in LaMg 2NiH 4.6 were reported as precursors for [NiH 4] 4– in LaMg 2NiH 7 [Miwa et al. J. Phys. Chem. C 2016, 120, 5926–5931]. To further understand the hydrogen states in the precursors (the NiH 2 andmore » NiH 3 units) and H atoms at the tetrahedral sites in the intermediate phase, LaMg 2NiH 4.6, we observed the hydrogen vibrations in LaMg 2NiH 4.6 and LaMg 2NiH 7 by using inelastic neutron scattering. A comparison of the hydrogen vibrations of the NiH 2 and NiH 3 units with that of [NiH 4] 4– shows that the librational modes of the NiH 2 and NiH 3 units were nonexistent; librational modes are characteristic modes for complex anions, such as [NiH 4] 4–. Furthermore, the hydrogen vibrations for the H atoms in the tetrahedral sites showed a narrower wavenumber range than that for H – and a wider range than that for typical interstitial hydrogen. The results indicated the presence of intermediate hydrogen states before the formation of [NiH 4] 4– and H –.« less

  16. Evidence of Intermediate Hydrogen States in the Formation of a Complex Hydride

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sato, Toyoto; Ramirez-Cuesta, Anibal J.; Daemen, Luke L.

    A complex hydride (LaMg 2NiH 7) composed of La 3+, two Mg 2+, [NiH 4] 4– with a covalently bonded hydrogen, and three H – was formed from an intermetallic LaMg 2Ni via an intermediate phase (LaMg 2NiH 4.6) composed of La, Mg, NiH 2, NiH 3 units, and H atoms at tetrahedral sites. The NiH 2 and NiH 3 units in LaMg 2NiH 4.6 were reported as precursors for [NiH 4] 4– in LaMg 2NiH 7 [Miwa et al. J. Phys. Chem. C 2016, 120, 5926–5931]. To further understand the hydrogen states in the precursors (the NiH 2 andmore » NiH 3 units) and H atoms at the tetrahedral sites in the intermediate phase, LaMg 2NiH 4.6, we observed the hydrogen vibrations in LaMg 2NiH 4.6 and LaMg 2NiH 7 by using inelastic neutron scattering. A comparison of the hydrogen vibrations of the NiH 2 and NiH 3 units with that of [NiH 4] 4– shows that the librational modes of the NiH 2 and NiH 3 units were nonexistent; librational modes are characteristic modes for complex anions, such as [NiH 4] 4–. Furthermore, the hydrogen vibrations for the H atoms in the tetrahedral sites showed a narrower wavenumber range than that for H – and a wider range than that for typical interstitial hydrogen. The results indicated the presence of intermediate hydrogen states before the formation of [NiH 4] 4– and H –.« less

  17. Averages of Eigenfunctions Over Hypersurfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Canzani, Yaiza; Galkowski, Jeffrey; Toth, John A.

    2018-06-01

    Let ( M, g) be a compact, smooth, Riemannian manifold and φ_h an L 2-normalized sequence of Laplace eigenfunctions with defect measure {μ}. Let H be a smooth hypersurface with unit exterior normal ν. Our main result says that when μ is not concentrated conormally to H, the eigenfunction restrictions to H satisfy \\int_H φ_h dσ_H = o(1) \\quad and \\quad \\int_H h D_{ν} φ_h dσ_H = o(1), {h \\to 0^+}.

  18. 40 CFR 721.5540 - 1H,3H,5H-oxazolo [3,4-c] oxazole, dihydro-7a-methyl-.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false 1H,3H,5H-oxazolo [3,4-c] oxazole... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.5540 1H,3H,5H-oxazolo [3,4-c] oxazole, dihydro-7a-methyl-. (a) Chemical substances and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified as 1H,3H,5H...

  19. Influenza Viral Vectors Expressing Two Kinds of HA Proteins as Bivalent Vaccine Against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses of Clade 2.3.4.4 H5 and H7N9

    PubMed Central

    Li, Jinping; Hou, Guangyu; Wang, Yan; Wang, Suchun; Peng, Cheng; Yu, Xiaohui; Jiang, Wenming

    2018-01-01

    The H5 and H7N9 subtypes of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) in China pose a serious challenge to public health and the poultry industry. In this study, a replication competent recombinant influenza A virus of the Í5N1 subtype expressing the H7 HA1 protein from a tri-cistronic NS segment was constructed. A heterologous dimerization domain was used to combine with the truncated NS1 protein of 73 amino acids to increase protein stability. H7 HA1, nuclear export protein coding region, and the truncated NS1 were fused in-frame into a single open reading frame via 2A self-cleaving peptides. The resulting PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 stably expressed the H5 HA and H7 HA1 proteins, and exhibited similar growth kinetics as the parental PR8-H5 virus in vitro. PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 induced specific hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody against H5, which was comparable to that of the combination vaccine of PR8-H5 and PR8-H7. The HI antibody titers against H7 virus were significantly lower than that by the combination vaccine. PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 completely protected chickens from challenge with both H5 and H7 HPAIVs. These results suggest that PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 is highly immunogenic and efficacious against both H5 and H7N9 HPAIVs in chickens. Highlights: - PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 simultaneously expressed two HA proteins of different avian influenza virus subtypes. - PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 was highly immunogenic in chickens. - PR8-H5-NS1(73)H7 provided complete protection against challenge with both H5 and H7N9 HPAIVs. PMID:29670587

  20. LH and hCG Action on the Same Receptor Results in Quantitatively and Qualitatively Different Intracellular Signalling

    PubMed Central

    Casarini, Livio; Lispi, Monica; Longobardi, Salvatore; Milosa, Fabiola; La Marca, Antonio; Tagliasacchi, Daniela; Pignatti, Elisa; Simoni, Manuela

    2012-01-01

    Human luteinizing hormone (hLH) and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) act on the same receptor (LHCGR) but it is not known whether they elicit the same cellular and molecular response. This study compares for the first time the activation of cell-signalling pathways and gene expression in response to hLH and hCG. Using recombinant hLH and recombinant hCG we evaluated the kinetics of cAMP production in COS-7 and hGL5 cells permanently expressing LHCGR (COS-7/LHCGR, hGL5/LHCGR), as well as cAMP, ERK1/2, AKT activation and progesterone production in primary human granulosa cells (hGLC). The expression of selected target genes was measured in the presence or absence of ERK- or AKT-pathways inhibitors. In COS-7/LHCGR cells, hCG is 5-fold more potent than hLH (cAMP ED50: 107.1±14.3 pM and 530.0±51.2 pM, respectively). hLH maximal effect was significantly faster (10 minutes by hLH; 1 hour by hCG). In hGLC continuous exposure to equipotent doses of gonadotropins up to 36 hours revealed that intracellular cAMP production is oscillating and significantly higher by hCG versus hLH. Conversely, phospho-ERK1/2 and -AKT activation was more potent and sustained by hLH versus hCG. ERK1/2 and AKT inhibition removed the inhibitory effect on NRG1 (neuregulin) expression by hLH but not by hCG; ERK1/2 inhibition significantly increased hLH- but not hCG-stimulated CYP19A1 (aromatase) expression. We conclude that: i) hCG is more potent on cAMP production, while hLH is more potent on ERK and AKT activation; ii) hGLC respond to equipotent, constant hLH or hCG stimulation with a fluctuating cAMP production and progressive progesterone secretion; and iii) the expression of hLH and hCG target genes partly involves the activation of different pathways depending on the ligand. Therefore, the LHCGR is able to differentiate the activity of hLH and hCG. PMID:23071612

  1. Contemporary avian influenza A virus subtype H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 hemagglutinin genes encode a mammalian virulence factor similar to the 1918 pandemic virus H1 hemagglutinin.

    PubMed

    Qi, Li; Pujanauski, Lindsey M; Davis, A Sally; Schwartzman, Louis M; Chertow, Daniel S; Baxter, David; Scherler, Kelsey; Hartshorn, Kevan L; Slemons, Richard D; Walters, Kathie-Anne; Kash, John C; Taubenberger, Jeffery K

    2014-11-18

    Zoonotic avian influenza virus infections may lead to epidemics or pandemics. The 1918 pandemic influenza virus has an avian influenza virus-like genome, and its H1 hemagglutinin was identified as a key mammalian virulence factor. A chimeric 1918 virus expressing a contemporary avian H1 hemagglutinin, however, displayed murine pathogenicity indistinguishable from that of the 1918 virus. Here, isogenic chimeric avian influenza viruses were constructed on an avian influenza virus backbone, differing only by hemagglutinin subtype expressed. Viruses expressing the avian H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 subtypes were pathogenic in mice and cytopathic in normal human bronchial epithelial cells, in contrast to H2-, H3-, H5-, H9-, H11-, H13-, H14-, and H16-expressing viruses. Mouse pathogenicity was associated with pulmonary macrophage and neutrophil recruitment. These data suggest that avian influenza virus hemagglutinins H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 contain inherent mammalian virulence factors and likely share a key virulence property of the 1918 virus. Consequently, zoonotic infections with avian influenza viruses bearing one of these hemagglutinins may cause enhanced disease in mammals. Influenza viruses from birds can cause outbreaks in humans and may contribute to the development of pandemics. The 1918 pandemic influenza virus has an avian influenza virus-like genome, and its main surface protein, an H1 subtype hemagglutinin, was identified as a key mammalian virulence factor. In a previous study, a 1918 virus expressing an avian H1 gene was as virulent in mice as the reconstructed 1918 virus. Here, a set of avian influenza viruses was constructed, differing only by hemagglutinin subtype. Viruses with the avian H1, H6, H7, H10, and H15 subtypes caused severe disease in mice and damaged human lung cells. Consequently, infections with avian influenza viruses bearing one of these hemagglutinins may cause enhanced disease in mammals, and therefore surveillance for human infections with these subtypes may be important in controlling future outbreaks. Copyright © 2014 Qi et al.

  2. Dynamic interactions of the asialoglycoprotein receptor subunits with coated pits. Enhanced interactions of H2 following association with H1.

    PubMed

    Katzir, Z; Nardi, N; Geffen, I; Fuhrer, C; Henis, Y I

    1994-08-26

    Lateral mobility studies comparing native and mutated membrane proteins, combined with treatments that alter clathrin lattice structure, can measure membrane protein-coated pit interactions in intact cells (Fire, E., Zwart, D., Roth, M. G., and Henis, Y. I. (1991) J. Cell Biol. 115, 1585-1594). We applied this approach to study the interactions of the H1 and H2 human asialoglycoprotein receptor subunits with coated pits. The lateral mobilities of singly expressed and coexpressed H1 and H2B (the H2 species that reaches the cell surface) were measured by fluorescence photobleaching recovery. They were compared with mutant proteins, H1(5A) (Tyr-5 replaced by Ala) and H2(5A) (Phe-5 replaced by Ala). While the mobile fractions of H1, H2B, and their mutants were similar, the lateral diffusion rate (measured by D, the lateral diffusion coefficient) was significantly slower for H1, whether expressed alone or with H2B. Coexpression with H1 reduced D of H2B to that of H1. Disruption of the clathrin lattices by hypertonic medium elevated D of H1, H1(5A), H2B, and H2(5A) to the same final level, without affecting their mobile fractions. Cytosol acidification, which retains altered clathrin lattices attached to the membrane and prevents coated vesicle formation, immobilized part of the H1 molecules, reflecting stable entrapment in "frozen" coated pits. H1(5A), H2B, and H2(5A) were not affected; however, coexpression of H2B with H1 conferred the sensitivity to cytosol acidification on H2B. Our results suggest that H1 lateral mobility is inhibited by dynamic interactions with coated pits in which Tyr-5 is involved. H2B resembles H1(5A) rather than H1, and its interactions with coated pits are weaker; efficient interaction of H2B with coated pits depends on complex formation with H1.

  3. hCGbeta core fragment is a metabolite of hCG: evidence from infusion of recombinant hCG.

    PubMed

    Norman, R J; Buchholz, M M; Somogyi, A A; Amato, F

    2000-03-01

    The availability of recombinant human chorionic gonadotrophin (r-hCG) has allowed us to measure its metabolic and renal clearance rates and to study the origin of the beta core fragment of hCG (hCGbetacf). Serum and urine samples were collected from six subjects, after an intravenous injection of 2 mg (equivalent to 44 000 IU Urinary hCG) r-hCG, and assayed for hCG and the beta subunit (hCGbeta). Urine from four of the subjects was also subjected to gel chromatography and assayed for hCGbetacf and hCG. r-hCG, administered as an intravenous dose, was distributed, initially in a volume of 3.4+/-0.7 l (mean+/-s.d.) and then in 6.5+/-1.15 l at steady-state. The disappearance of r-hCG from serum was bi-exponential, with an initial half-life of 4.5+/-0.7 h and a terminal half-life of 29.0+/-4.6 h. The mean residence time was 28. 6+/- 3.6 h and the total systemic clearance rate of r-hCG was 226+/-18 ml/h. The renal clearance rate was 28.75+/-6.2 ml/h (mean+/-s.d). hCGbetacf was detected in all urine samples collected at 6 h intervals. Over the 138 h period of urine collection, 12.9% (range 10.1-17.3% ) of r-hCG injected was recovered as the intact molecule and 1.7% (range 0.8-2.9%) was recovered as the hCGbetacf, in 4 subjects. The molar ratio of hCGbetacf to hCG in urine increased from 3.1+/-1.7%, on day 1, to 76+/-34.3% (mean+/-s.e.m.) on day 5, after r-hCG infusion, suggesting that hCGbetacf is a metabolic product of the infused r-hCG.

  4. Hepneriana Dworakowska (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Erythroneurini), first record from China, with descriptions of eleven new species.

    PubMed

    Yang, Meixia; Cao, Yanghui; Zhang, Yalin

    2016-11-15

    A redescription of the erythroneurine leafhopper genus Hepneriana Dworakowska and a key to Chinese species of the genus are provided. Eleven new species, Hepneriana applanata, H. bicruris, H. concava, H. euryaedeaga, H. longa, H. menglunensis, H. paragamma, H. prostrata, H. robusta, H. taibaoensis and H. undulata spp. nov. are described and H. joannae (Dworakowska) is newly recorded from China.

  5. Virus-like particles displaying H5, H7, H9 hemagglutinins and N1 neuraminidase elicit protective immunity to heterologous avian influenza viruses in chickens

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pushko, Peter, E-mail: ppushko@medigen-usa.com

    Avian influenza (AI) viruses circulating in wild birds pose a serious threat to public health. Human and veterinary vaccines against AI subtypes are needed. Here we prepared triple-subtype VLPs that co-localized H5, H7 and H9 antigens derived from H5N1, H7N3 and H9N2 viruses. VLPs also contained influenza N1 neuraminidase and retroviral gag protein. The H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs were prepared using baculovirus expression. Biochemical, functional and antigenic characteristics were determined including hemagglutination and neuraminidase enzyme activities. VLPs were further evaluated in a chicken AI challenge model for safety, immunogenicity and protective efficacy against heterologous AI viruses including H5N2, H7N3 and H9N2 subtypes.more » All vaccinated birds survived challenges with H5N2 and H7N3 highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) viruses, while all controls died. Immune response was also detectable after challenge with low pathogenicity AI (LPAI) H9N2 virus suggesting that H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs represent a promising approach for the development of broadly protective AI vaccine. - Highlights: •VLPs were prepared that co-localized H5, H7 and H9 subtypes in a VLP envelope. •VLPs were characterized including electron microscopy, HA assay and NA enzyme activity. •Experimental VLP vaccine was evaluated in an avian influenza challenge model. •VLPs induced immune responses against heterologous H5, H7 and H9 virus challenges.« less

  6. The vanadium nitrogenase of Azotobacter chroococcum. Reduction of acetylene and ethylene to ethane.

    PubMed Central

    Dilworth, M J; Eady, R R; Eldridge, M E

    1988-01-01

    1. The vanadium (V-) nitrogenase of Azobacter chroococcum transfers up to 7.4% of the electrons used in acetylene (C2H2) reduction for the formation of ethane (C2H6). The apparent Km for C2H2 (6 kPa) is the same for either ethylene (C2H4) or ethane (C2H6) formation and much higher than the reported Km values for C2H2 reduction to C2H4 by molybdenum (Mo-) nitrogenases. Reduction of C2H2 in 2H2O yields predominantly [cis-2H2]ethylene. 2. The ratio of electron flux yielding C2H6 to that yielding C2H4 (the C2H6/C2H4 ratio) is increased by raising the ratio of Fe protein to VFe protein and by increasing the assay temperature up to at least 40 degrees C. pH values above 7.5 decrease the C2H6/C2H4 ratio. 3. C2H4 and C2H6 formation from C2H2 by V-nitrogenase are not inhibited by H2. CO inhibits both processes much less strongly than it inhibits C2H4 formation from C2H2 with Mo-nitrogenase. 4. Although V-nitrogenase also catalyses the slow CO-sensitive reduction of C2H4 to C2H6, free C2H4 is not an intermediate in C2H6 formation from C2H2. 5. Propyne (CH3C identical to CH) is not reduced by the V-nitrogenase. 6. Some implications of these results for the mechanism of C2H6 formation by the V-nitrogenase are discussed. PMID:3162672

  7. Syntheses of halogen derivatives of L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine and L-phenylalanine labeled with hydrogen isotopes.

    PubMed

    Pająk, Małgorzata; Pałka, Katarzyna; Winnicka, Elżbieta; Kańska, Marianna

    2016-01-01

    Halogenated, labeled with tritium and doubly with deuterium and tritium, derivatives of L-tryptophan, i.e. 5'-bromo-[2-(3)H]-, 5'-bromo-[2-(2)H/(3)H]-, 5'-fluoro-[2-(3)H]-5'-fluoro-[2-(2)H/(3)H]-, 6'-fluoro-[2-(3)H]-, 6'-fluoro-[2-(2)H/(3)H]-L-tryptophan, as well as, L-tyrosine, i.e. 3'-fluoro-[2-(3)H]-, 3'-fluoro-[2-(2)H/(3)H]-, 3'-chloro-[2-(3)H]-, and 3'-chloro-[2-(2)H/(3)H]-L-tyrosine, and also L-phenylalanine, i.e. 2'-fluoro-[(3S)-(3)H]-, 2'-fluoro-[(3S)-(2)H/(3) H]-, 2'-chloro-[(3S)-(3)H]-, 2'-chloro-[(3S)-(2)H/(3)H]-, 4'-chloro-[(3S)-(3)H]-, and 4'-chloro-[(3S)-(2)H/(3)H]-L-phenylalanine were synthesized using enzymatic methods. Isotopomers of L-tryptophan were synthesized by coupling of halogenated indoles with S-methyl-L-cysteine carried out in deuteriated or tritiated incubation media. Labeled halogenated derivatives of L-tyrosine were obtained by the enzymatically supported exchange between halogenated L-tyrosine and isotopic water. Labeled halogenated isotopologues of L-Phe were synthesized by the enzymatic addition of ammonia to halogenated cinnamic acid. As a source of hydrogen tritiated water (HTO) and heavy water (D2O) with addition of HTO were used. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  8. pH Tolerance in Freshwater Bacterioplankton: Trait Variation of the Community as Measured by Leucine Incorporation

    PubMed Central

    Kritzberg, Emma

    2015-01-01

    pH is an important factor determining bacterial community composition in soil and water. We have directly determined the community tolerance (trait variation) to pH in communities from 22 lakes and streams ranging in pH from 4 to 9 using a growth-based method not relying on distinguishing between individual populations. The pH in the water samples was altered to up to 16 pH values, covering in situ pH ± 2.5 U, and the tolerance was assessed by measuring bacterial growth (Leu incorporation) instantaneously after pH adjustment. The resulting unimodal response curves, reflecting community tolerance to pH, were well modeled with a double logistic equation (mean R2 = 0.97). The optimal pH for growth (pHopt) among the bacterial communities was closely correlated with in situ pH, with a slope (0.89 ± 0.099) close to unity. The pH interval, in which growth was ≥90% of that at pHopt, was 1.1 to 3 pH units wide (mean 2.0 pH units). Tolerance response curves of communities originating from circum-neutral pH were symmetrical, whereas in high-pH (8.9) and especially in low-pH (<5.5) waters, asymmetric tolerance curves were found. In low-pH waters, decreasing pH was more detrimental for bacterial growth than increasing pH, with a tendency for the opposite for high-pH waters. A pH tolerance index, using the ratio of growth at only two pH values (pH 4 and 8), was closely related to pHopt (R2 = 0.83), allowing for easy determination of pH tolerance during rapid changes in pH. PMID:26276108

  9. 77 FR 4699 - Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-31

    ... Register. That NPRM applies to certain Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350, PC-6/350-H1, PC-6/350-H2, PC-6/A, PC-6/A-H1, PC-6/A-H2, PC-6/B-H2, PC- 6/B1-H2, PC-6/B2-H2, PC-6/B2-H4, PC-6/C-H2, and PC-6/C1-H2 airplanes. The Docket Number in the heading, in the Supplementary Information...

  10. 77 FR 2238 - Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-17

    ... (AD) for Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350, PC-6/ 350-H1, PC-6/350-H2, PC-6/A, PC-6/A-H1, PC-6/A-H2, PC-6/B-H2, PC-6/B1- H2, PC-6/B2-H2, PC-6/B2-H4, PC-6/C-H2, and PC-6/C1-H2... a PC-6 aeroplane has been reported. The results of the investigations indicate that the elevator and...

  11. Free-Surface Flow Over Curved Surfaces

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-08-01

    method to the shallow water equations some deficiencies are apparent. The primary problem, for the hydrodynamic conditions we wish to simulate, is that... tK2 K•2 a9 I.- 2 K2h3 13 6 all I -h -I 2 h 4 6 1-2 K2h + f2 (h) log f2 (h)=22- K2 2 hf 2 (h/2) f,(h)logf 2(h) K2 2 K2 3 aK1 2 h + f2 (h/2) log f2 (h

  12. Virus-like particles displaying H5, H7, H9 hemagglutinins and N1 neuraminidase elicit protective immunity to heterologous avian influenza viruses in chickens

    PubMed Central

    Pushko, Peter; Tretyakova, Irina; Hidajat, Rachmat; Zsak, Aniko; Chrzastek, Klaudia; Tumpey, Terrence M.; Kapczynski, Darrell R.

    2016-01-01

    Avian influenza (AI) viruses circulating in wild birds pose a serious threat to public health. Human and veterinary vaccines against AI subtypes are needed. Here we prepared triple-subtype VLPs that co-localized H5, H7 and H9 antigens derived from H5N1, H7N3 and H9N2 viruses. VLPs also contained influenza N1 neuraminidase and retroviral gag protein. The H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs were prepared using baculovirus expression. Biochemical, functional and antigenic characteristics were determined including hemagglutination and neuraminidase enzyme activities. VLPs were further evaluated in a chicken AI challenge model for safety, immunogenicity and protective efficacy against heterologous AI viruses including H5N2, H7N3 and H9N2 subtypes. All vaccinated birds survived challenges with H5N2 and H7N3 highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) viruses, while all controls died. Immune response was also detectable after challenge with low pathogenicity AI (LPAI) H9N2 virus suggesting that H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs represent a promising approach for the development of broadly protective AI vaccine. PMID:27936463

  13. Virus-like particles displaying H5, H7, H9 hemagglutinins and N1 neuraminidase elicit protective immunity to heterologous avian influenza viruses in chickens.

    PubMed

    Pushko, Peter; Tretyakova, Irina; Hidajat, Rachmat; Zsak, Aniko; Chrzastek, Klaudia; Tumpey, Terrence M; Kapczynski, Darrell R

    2017-01-15

    Avian influenza (AI) viruses circulating in wild birds pose a serious threat to public health. Human and veterinary vaccines against AI subtypes are needed. Here we prepared triple-subtype VLPs that co-localized H5, H7 and H9 antigens derived from H5N1, H7N3 and H9N2 viruses. VLPs also contained influenza N1 neuraminidase and retroviral gag protein. The H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs were prepared using baculovirus expression. Biochemical, functional and antigenic characteristics were determined including hemagglutination and neuraminidase enzyme activities. VLPs were further evaluated in a chicken AI challenge model for safety, immunogenicity and protective efficacy against heterologous AI viruses including H5N2, H7N3 and H9N2 subtypes. All vaccinated birds survived challenges with H5N2 and H7N3 highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) viruses, while all controls died. Immune response was also detectable after challenge with low pathogenicity AI (LPAI) H9N2 virus suggesting that H5/H7/H9/N1/gag VLPs represent a promising approach for the development of broadly protective AI vaccine. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  14. Embryogenic competence acquisition in sugarcane callus is associated with differential H+ pump abundance and activity.

    PubMed

    Passamani, Lucas Z; Bertolazi, Amanda A; Ramos, Alessandro C; Santa-Catarina, Claudete; Thelen, Jay J; Silveira, Vanildo

    2018-06-22

    Somatic embryogenesis is an important biological process in several plant species, including sugarcane. Proteomics approaches have shown that H + pumps are differentially regulated during somatic embryogenesis; however, the relationship between H + flux and embryogenic competence is still unclear. This work aimed to elucidate the association between extracellular H + flux and somatic embryo maturation in sugarcane. We performed a microsomal proteomics analysis and analyzed changes in extracellular H + flux and H + pump (P-H + -ATPase, V-H + -ATPase and H + -PPase) activity in embryogenic and non-embryogenic callus. A total of 657 proteins were identified, 16 of which were H + pumps. We observed that P-H + -ATPase and H + -PPase were more abundant in embryogenic callus. Compared with non-embryogenic callus, embryogenic callus showed higher H + influx, especially on maturation day 14, as well as higher H+ pump activity (mainly P-H+-ATPase and H+-PPase activity). H+-PPase appears to be the major H + pump in embryogenic callus during somatic embryo formation, functioning in both vacuole acidification and PPi homeostasis. These results provide evidence for an association between higher H + pump protein abundance and, consequently, higher H + flux and embryogenic competence acquisition in the callus of sugarcane, allowing for optimization of the somatic embryo conversion process by modulating the activities of these H + pumps.

  15. Functional role of hCngb3 in regulation of human cone cng channel: effect of rod monochromacy-associated mutations in hCNGB3 on channel function.

    PubMed

    Okada, Akira; Ueyama, Hisao; Toyoda, Futoshi; Oda, Sanae; Ding, Wei-Guang; Tanabe, Shoko; Yamade, Shinichi; Matsuura, Hiroshi; Ohkubo, Iwao; Kani, Kazutaka

    2004-07-01

    The human cone photoreceptor cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel comprises alpha- and beta-subunits, which are respectively encoded by hCNGA3 and hCNGB3. The purpose was to examine the functional role of hCNGB3 in modulation of human cone CNG channels and to characterize functional consequences of rod monochromacy-associated mutations in hCNGB3 (S435F and D633G). Macroscopic patch currents were recorded from human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells expressing homomeric (hCNGA3 and hCNGB3) and heteromeric (hCNGA3/hCNGB3, hCNGA3/hCNGB3-S435F, and hCNGA3/hCNGB3-D633G) channels using inside-out patch-clamp technique. Both hCNGA3 homomeric and hCNGA3/hCNGB3 heteromeric channels were activated by cGMP, with half-maximally activating concentration (K(1/2)) of 11.1 +/- 1.0 and 26.2 +/- 1.9 micro M, respectively. The hCNGA3 channels appeared to be more sensitive to inhibition by extracellular Ca(2+) compared with hCNGA3/hCNGB3 channels, when assessed by the degree of outward rectification. Coexpression of either of rod monochromacy-associated mutants of hCNGB3 with hCNGA3 significantly reduced K(1/2) value for cGMP but little affected the sensitivity to extracellular Ca(2+), compared with wild-type heteromeric channels. The selectivity of hCNGA3, hCNGA3/hCNGB3, hCNGA3/hCNGB3-S435F, and hCNGA3/hCNGB3-D633G channels for monovalent cations were largely similar. Immunoprecipitation experiments showed association of hCNGA3 subunit with both of wild-type and mutant hCNGB3 subunits. The hCNGB3 plays an important modulatory role in the function of human cone CNG channels with respect to cGMP and extracellular Ca(2+) sensitivities. The rod monochromacy-associated S435F and D633G mutations in hCNGB3 evokes a significant increase in the apparent affinity for cGMP, which should alter cone function and thereby contribute at least partly to pathogenesis of the disease.

  16. Immunochemical mapping of gonadotropins.

    PubMed

    Berger, P; Bidart, J M; Delves, P S; Dirnhofer, S; Hoermann, R; Isaacs, N; Jackson, A; Klonisch, T; Lapthorn, A; Lund, T; Mann, K; Roitt, I; Schwarz, S; Wick, G

    1996-12-20

    As a glycoprotein hormone, human chorionic gonadotropic (hCG) is not a single molecular entity but this term rather comprises an array of molecular variants such as hCG, hCG beta, hCGn, hCG beta n, hCG beta cf, -CTPhCG, hCG beta CTP, deglyhCG, asialohCG, hCGav and the closely related molecules hLH, hLH beta and hLH beta ef. The advent of monoclonal antibodies (MCA), the availability of ultrasensitive detection systems and the recent determination of the crystal structure of hCG, made it possible to design special purpose diagnostic and clinical research immunoassays for hCG-like molecules. For more than a decade we and others have tried to refine epitope maps for hCG and related molecules by means of a large panel of MCA, naturally occurring metabolic variants of hCG (hCGn, hCG beta, hCG alpha, hCG beta cf, hCG beta CTP), homologous hormones and subunits of various species (e.g. hLH, hLH beta, hFSH, hTSH, oLH, rLH beta), chemically modified molecules (deglyhCG, asialohCG, tryptic and chymotryptic hCG beta and hCG alpha fragments) and synthetic peptides (octapeptides and longer). It appeared that all epitopes on molecular hCG-variants recognized by our MCA are determined by the protein backbone. Except for the two major epitopes on hCG beta CTP and parts of two antigenic domains on hCG alpha, epitopes on hCG-derived molecules are determined by the tertiary and quarternary structure. Operationally useful descriptive epitope maps were designed including information on assay suitability of antigenic determinants. On this basis we established ultrasensitive time-resolved fluoroimmuno-assays for hCG, hCG and hCGn, hCG beta and hCG beta n and hCG beta cf, hCG alpha and additional assays recognizing different spectra of hCG-variants. Such assay have been applied by us and others to the detection of pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, choriocarcinoma, testicular cancer, other cancers and prenatal diagnosis. However, as the molecular structure of many epitopes utilized in immunoassays of different laboratories was not resolved, comparability of results was not satisfactory. Consequently, attempts were made to compare schematic epitope maps from different research institutions. The situation has been much improved by solving the three-dimensional (3D) structure of hCG. It has been shown that hCG is a member of the structural superfamily of cystine knot growth factors like NGF, PDGF-B and TGF-beta. Each of its subunits is stabilized in its topology by three disulfide bonds forming a cystine knot. Moreover, it turned out that the disulfide bridges in their majority have previously been wrongly assigned. Computer molecular modeling of crystallographic coordinates of hCG and subsequent selective combined--PCR-based and immunological--mutational analyses of hCG beta expressed via the transmembrane region of a MHC molecule made it possible to more precisely localize epitopes on hCG-derived molecules. Although the entire surface of hCG has to be regarded as potentially immunogenic there seems to be hot spots where epitopes are clustered in antigenic domains. These are located on the first and third loops protuding from the cystine knots of both subunits and are possibly centered around the knot itself. Ultimate answers on epitope localizations will be given by the crystal structure determination of hCG complexed with different Fabs.

  17. [Effect of Residual Hydrogen Peroxide on Hydrolysis Acidification of Sludge Pretreated by Microwave -H2O2-Alkaline Process].

    PubMed

    Jia, Rui-lai; Liu, Ji-bao; Wei, Yuan-song; Cai, Xing

    2015-10-01

    Previous studies have found that in the hydrolysis acidification process, sludge after microwave -H2O2-alkaline (MW-H2O2-OH, pH = 10) pretreatment had an acid production lag due to the residual hydrogen peroxide. In this study, effects of residual hydrogen peroxide after MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10 or pH = 11) pretreatment on the sludge hydrolysis acidification were investigated through batch experiments. Our results showed that catalase had a higher catalytic efficiency than manganese dioxide for hydrogen peroxide, which could completely degraded hydrogen peroxide within 10 min. During the 8 d of hydrolysis acidification time, both SCOD concentrations and the total VFAs concentrations of four groups were firstly increased and then decreased. The optimized hydrolysis times were 0.5 d for four groups, and the optimized hydrolysis acidification times were 3 d for MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) group, MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) + catalase group and MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11) + catalase group. The optimized hydrolysis acidification time for MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11) group was 4 d. Residual hydrogen peroxide inhibited acid production for sludge after MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) pretreatment, resulting in a lag in acidification stage. Compared with MW-H2O2-OH ( pH = 10) pretreatment, MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11 ) pretreatment released more SCOD by 19.29% and more organic matters, which resulted in the increase of total VFAs production significantly by 84.80% at 5 d of hydrolysis acidification time and MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11) group could shorten the lag time slightly. Dosing catalase (100 mg x -L(-1)) after the MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10 or pH = 11) pretreatment not only significantly shortened the lag time (0.5 d) in acidification stage, but also produced more total VFAs by 23.61% and 50.12% in the MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) + catalase group and MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11) + catalase group, compared with MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) group at 3d of hydrolysis acidification time. For MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) group, MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 10) + catalase group and MW-H2O2-OH(pH = 11) + catalase group, the dominant VFAs were acetic, iso-valeric and n-butyric acids. For MW-H2O2-OH (pH = 11) group, the dominant VFAs were acetic, propionic and iso-valeric acids. In the optimized hydrolysis acidification time for each group, percentages of the three main acids accounted for more than 75% of total VFAs, and percentages of acetic acid accounted for more than 41% of total VFAs.

  18. In vivo synthesis of phosphatidylcholine in rat brain via the phospholipid methylation pathway

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lakher, Michael; Wurtman, Richard J.

    1987-01-01

    The in vivo synthesis of brain phosphatidylcholine (PC) by the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) was examined. (H-3)methyl)methionine was infused i.c.v., by indwelling cannula, and brain samples were taken 0.5-18 h thereafter and assayed for (H-3)PC, as well as for its biosynthetic intermediates (H-3)phosphatidyl monomethylethanolamine ((H-3)PMME) and (H-3)phosphatidyl dimethylethanolamine ((H-3)PDME), and for (H-3)lysophosphatidylcholine ((H-3)LPC) and S-(H-3)adenosylmethionine ((H-3)SAM). Most of the (H-3)PC (79-94 percent) was present ipsilateral to the infusion site; indicating that the radioactivity in the (H-3)PC was primarily of intracerebral origin, and not taken up from the blood. Moreover, only very low levels of (H-3)PC were attained in brains of animals receiving (H-3)methionine i.p. and these levels were symmetrically distributed. (H-3)PMME and (H-3)PDME turned over with apparent half-lives of 2.2 h and 2.4 h. In contrast, the accumulation of brain (H-3)PC was biphasic, suggesting the existence of two pools, the more labile of which turned over rapidly (t(sub 1/2) = 5 h) and was formed for as long as (H-3)PMME and (H-3)PDME are present in the brain, and another, which was distinguishable only at 18 h after the (H-3)methionine infusion. (The latter pool may have been synthesized from (H-3)choline that was released via the hydrolysis of some of the brain (H-3)PC previously formed by the methylation of PE.) Subcellular fractionation of brain tissue obtained after in vivo labelling with (H-3)methionine revealed that mitochondrial PC had the highest specific radioactivity (dpm per micromol total lipid phosphorus), and myelin the least. These observations affirm that rat brain does synthesize PC in vivo by methylating PE, and the technique provides an experimental system which may be useful for examining the physiological regulation of this process.

  19. Using a simulation model to assess risk of false negative point-of-care urinary human chorionic gonadotropin device results due to high-dose hook interference.

    PubMed

    Milhorn, Denise; Korpi-Steiner, Nichole

    2015-02-01

    It is unclear if the point-of-care (POC) Clinitest hCG device is subject to high-dose hook interference from physiological concentrations of intact human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), β-core fragment of hCG (hCGβcf), and hCG free β-subunit (hCGβ) found in urine during pregnancy. We used a simulation model to address this question and related our findings to our institution's pregnant population in order to assess risk for potential false-negative hCG results. The expected distribution of days relative to ovulation during routine POC hCG testing was estimated from 182 patients. Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device susceptibility to high-dose hook interference from hCG variants and potential risk of false-negative results as it relates to this population were evaluated by testing increasing concentrations of hCG, hCGβcf, hCGβ as well as urine simulating physiological hCG, hCGβcf and hCGβ concentrations expected during early pregnancy (≤44 days post-ovulation). The Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device exhibited high-dose hook interference from hCGβcf alone, but not from hCG, hCGβ, or simulated physiological urinary concentrations of combined hCG, hCGβcf and hCGβ expected during early pregnancy. The majority of our patient population had urinary hCG testing conducted during early pregnancy. The Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device is unlikely to exhibit false-negative urinary hCG results due to high-dose hook interference for women in early healthy pregnancy, although additional studies are necessary to determine potential risk in other patient populations. Visual interpretation of POC urinary hCG device results is an important failure mode to consider in risk analyses for erroneous urinary hCG device results. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  20. Ab initio chemical kinetics for SiH3 reactions with Si(x)H2x+2 (x = 1-4).

    PubMed

    Raghunath, P; Lin, M C

    2010-12-30

    Gas-phase kinetics and mechanisms of SiH(3) reactions with SiH(4), Si(2)H(6), Si(3)H(8), and Si(4)H(10), processes of relevance to a-Si thin-film deposition, have been investigated by ab initio molecular orbital and transition-state theory (TST) calculations. Geometric parameters of all the species involved in the title reactions were optimized by density functional theory at the B3LYP and BH&HLYP levels with the 6-311++G(3df,2p) basis set. The potential energy surface of each reaction was refined at the CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,2p) level of theory. The results show that the most favorable low energy pathways in the SiH(3) reactions with these silanes occur by H abstraction, leading to the formation of SiH(4) + Si(x)H(2x+1) (silanyl) radicals. For both Si(3)H(8) and n-Si(4)H(10) reactions, the lowest energy barrier channels take place by secondary Si-H abstraction, yielding SiH(4) + s-Si(3)H(7) and SiH(4) + s-Si(4)H(9), respectively. In the i-Si(4)H(10) reaction, tertiary Si-H abstraction has the lowest barrier producing SiH(4) + t-Si(4)H(9). In addition, direct SiH(3)-for-X substitution reactions forming Si(2)H(6) + X (X = H or silanyls) can also occur, but with significantly higher reaction barriers. A comparison of the SiH(3) reactions with the analogous CH(3) reactions with alkanes has been made. The rate constants for low-energy product channels have been calculated for the temperature range 300-2500 K by TST with Eckart tunneling corrections. These results, together with predicted heats of formation of various silanyl radicals and Si(4)H(10) isomers, have been tabulated for modeling of a-Si:H film growth by chemical vapor deposition.

  1. Effect of additional human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) on follicular growth and ovulation in gonadotrophin-treated gilts

    PubMed Central

    Manjarín, Rodrigo; Cassar, Glen; Friendship, Robert M.; Garcia, José C.; Dominguez, J. Carlos; Kirkwood, Roy N.

    2015-01-01

    The objective of this study was to determine the effect of additional human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) on the ovarian response of gilts previously treated with 200 IU hCG combined with 400 IU equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) (eCG/hCG). Seventy-one prepuberal gilts (105 ± 7.5 kg) were assigned to groups: i) eCG/hCG (hCG-0; n = 25); ii) eCG/hCG followed by 100 IU of hCG at 24 h (hCG-100; n = 24); iii) eCG/hCG followed by 200 IU hCG at 24 h (hCG-200; n = 10); and iv) controls (CON; n = 12). Ovulation response was assessed by ovarian dissection or real-time ultrasonography. Additional hCG did not significantly improve numbers of gilts ovulating. Numbers of corpora lutea increased with hCG, and was higher in hCG-200 (P < 0.01). Compared to hCG-0, the frequency of cysts in gilts was higher in hCG-100 (P < 0.05) and further increased in hCG-200 (P < 0.01). The number of cysts per gilt was dose-dependently increased by additional hCG. We conclude that supplemental hCG will increase the number of corpora lutea but will be associated with follicular cyst development in a dose dependent manner. PMID:26130853

  2. UV/vis, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopic studies to determine mangiferin p Ka values

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gómez-Zaleta, Berenice; Ramírez-Silva, María Teresa; Gutiérrez, Atilano; González-Vergara, Enrique; Güizado-Rodríguez, Marisol; Rojas-Hernández, Alberto

    2006-07-01

    The acid constants of mangiferin (a natural xanthonoid) in aqueous solution were determined through an UV/vis spectroscopic study employing the SQUAD program as a computational tool. A NMR study complements the p Ka values assignment and evidences a H-bridge presence on 1-C. The chemical model used was consistent with the experimental data obtained. The p Ka values determined with this procedure were as follows: H 4(MGF) = H 3(MGF) - + H +, pK(6-H) = 6.52 ± 0.06; H 3(MGF) - = H 2(MGF) 2- + H +, pK(3-H) = 7.97 ± 0.06; H 2(MGF) 2- = H(MGF) 3- + H +, pK(7-H) = 9.44 ± 0.04; H(MGF) 3- = (MGF) 4- + H +, pK(1-H) = 12.10 ± 0.01; where it has been considered mangiferin C 19H 18O 11 as H 4(MGF). Mangiferin UV/vis spectral behavior, stability study in aqueous solution as well as NMR spectroscopy studies: one-dimensional 1H, 13C, 2D correlated 1H/ 13C performed by (g)-HSQC and (g)-HMBC methods; are also presented. p Ka values determination of H 4(MGF) in aqueous solution is a necessary contribution to subsequent pharmacokinetic study, and a step towards the understanding of its biological effects.

  3. The dynamics of histone H2A ubiquitination in HeLa cells exposed to rapamycin, ethanol, hydroxyurea, ER stress, heat shock and DNA damage.

    PubMed

    Nakata, Shiori; Watanabe, Tadashi; Nakagawa, Koji; Takeda, Hiroshi; Ito, Akihiro; Fujimuro, Masahiro

    2016-03-25

    Polyubiquitination plays key roles in proteasome-dependent and independent cellular events, whereas monoubiquitination is involved in gene expression, DNA repair, protein-protein interaction, and protein trafficking. We previously developed an FK2 antibody, which specifically recognizes poly-Ub moieties but not free Ub. To elucidate the role of Ub conjugation in response to cellular stress, we used FK2 to investigate whether chemical stress (rapamycin, ethanol, or hydroxyurea), ER stress (thapsigargin or tunicamycin), heat shock or DNA damage (H2O2 or methyl methanesulfonate) affect the formation of Ub conjugates including histone H2A (hH2A) ubiquitination. First, we found that all forms of stress tested increased poly-ubiquitinated proteins in HeLa cells. Furthermore, rapamycin and hydroxyurea treatment, and ER stress increased ubiquitination of hH2A, while methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) treatment induced deubiquitination of hH2A. The ethanol and H2O2 treatments, and heat shock transiently induced hH2A de-ubiquitination, although deubiquitinated hH2A were ubiquitinated again by subsequent cultivation. We also revealed that FK2 reacts with not only polyubiquitinated proteins but also mono-ubiquitinated hH2A. With the exception of MMS, all forms of stress tested increased the acetylation of K5-hH2A, K9-hH3 and K8-hH4 in addition to ubiquitination. K118 and K119 of hH2A were ubiquitinated in cells under normal conditions, and K119 was the major ubiquitination site. The MMS-treatment and heat shock induced the deubiquitination of both K118 and K119-histone H2A. Interestingly, MMS treatment did not affect cell HeLa cell viability expressing double-mutant hH2A (KK118,119AA-hH2A), while heat shock slightly but significantly decreased viability of double-mutant hH2A expressing cells, indicating that ubiquitination of both sites associates with recovery from heat shock but not MMS treatment. Thus, we characterized FK2 reactivity and demonstrated that various stresses alter the ubiquitination status, particularly ubiquitinated hH2A and with histone acetylation, and highlight the physiological importance of hH2A ubiquitination after exposure to stress stimuli. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Influenza-A Viruses in Ducks in Northwestern Minnesota: Fine Scale Spatial and Temporal Variation in Prevalence and Subtype Diversity

    PubMed Central

    Wilcox, Benjamin R.; Knutsen, Gregory A.; Berdeen, James; Goekjian, Virginia; Poulson, Rebecca; Goyal, Sagar; Sreevatsan, Srinand; Cardona, Carol; Berghaus, Roy D.; Swayne, David E.; Yabsley, Michael J.; Stallknecht, David E.

    2011-01-01

    Waterfowl from northwestern Minnesota were sampled by cloacal swabbing for Avian Influenza Virus (AIV) from July – October in 2007 and 2008. AIV was detected in 222 (9.1%) of 2,441 ducks in 2007 and in 438 (17.9%) of 2,452 ducks in 2008. Prevalence of AIV peaked in late summer. We detected 27 AIV subtypes during 2007 and 31 during 2008. Ten hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes were detected each year (i.e., H1, 3–8, and 10–12 during 2007; H1-8, 10 and 11 during 2008). All neuraminidase (NA) subtypes were detected during each year of the study. Subtype diversity varied between years and increased with prevalence into September. Predominant subtypes during 2007 (comprising ≥5% of subtype diversity) included H1N1, H3N6, H3N8, H4N6, H7N3, H10N7, and H11N9. Predominant subtypes during 2008 included H3N6, H3N8, H4N6, H4N8, H6N1, and H10N7. Additionally, within each HA subtype, the same predominant HA/NA subtype combinations were detected each year and included H1N1, H3N8, H4N6, H5N2, H6N1, H7N3, H8N4, H10N7, and H11N9. The H2N3 and H12N5 viruses also predominated within the H2 and H12 subtypes, respectively, but only were detected during a single year (H2 and H12 viruses were not detected during 2007 and 2008, respectively). Mallards were the predominant species sampled (63.7% of the total), and 531 AIV were isolated from this species (80.5% of the total isolates). Mallard data collected during both years adequately described the observed temporal and spatial prevalence from the total sample and also adequately represented subtype diversity. Juvenile mallards also were adequate in describing the temporal and spatial prevalence of AIV as well as subtype diversity. PMID:21931636

  5. Free H₂ rotation vs Jahn-Teller constraints in the nonclassical trigonal (TPB)Co-H₂ complex.

    PubMed

    Gunderson, William A; Suess, Daniel L M; Fong, Henry; Wang, Xiaoping; Hoffmann, Christina M; Cutsail, George E; Peters, Jonas C; Hoffman, Brian M

    2014-10-22

    Proton exchange within the M-H2 moiety of (TPB)Co(H2) (Co-H2; TPB = B(o-C6H4P(i)Pr2)3) by 2-fold rotation about the M-H2 axis is probed through EPR/ENDOR studies and a neutron diffraction crystal structure. This complex is compared with previously studied (SiP(iPr)3)Fe(H2) (Fe-H2) (SiP(iPr)3 = [Si(o-C6H4P(i)Pr2)3]). The g-values for Co-H2 and Fe-H2 show that both have the Jahn-Teller (JT)-active (2)E ground state (idealized C3 symmetry) with doubly degenerate frontier orbitals, (e)(3) = [|mL ± 2>](3) = [x(2) - y(2), xy](3), but with stronger linear vibronic coupling for Co-H2. The observation of (1)H ENDOR signals from the Co-HD complex, (2)H signals from the Co-D2/HD complexes, but no (1)H signals from the Co-H2 complex establishes that H2 undergoes proton exchange at 2 K through rotation around the Co-H2 axis, which introduces a quantum-statistical (Pauli-principle) requirement that the overall nuclear wave function be antisymmetric to exchange of identical protons (I = 1/2; Fermions), symmetric for identical deuterons (I = 1; Bosons). Analysis of the 1-D rotor problem indicates that Co-H2 exhibits rotor-like behavior in solution because the underlying C3 molecular symmetry combined with H2 exchange creates a dominant 6-fold barrier to H2 rotation. Fe-H2 instead shows H2 localization at 2 K because a dominant 2-fold barrier is introduced by strong Fe(3d)→ H2(σ*) π-backbonding that becomes dependent on the H2 orientation through quadratic JT distortion. ENDOR sensitively probes bonding along the L2-M-E axis (E = Si for Fe-H2; E = B for Co-H2). Notably, the isotropic (1)H/(2)H hyperfine coupling to the diatomic of Co-H2 is nearly 4-fold smaller than for Fe-H2.

  6. The Preparation of Some Compounds for Testing as Insect Repellents

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1945-12-14

    1 £’ * B * >» CO >• o >» i 1 Ü 1 • Pi r~» Wl r-^ Ml JJ rH FH r-f O CJ o 10 O I ä g: a t- U Ot rl b rl ft 2 O *-^ o flj O N-r o ^^^ O n 4» u» N...rH ’ td p « |- r a a op V V CM . CM’.O J4 O O +J rH ’’ o u >» >. CM A3 • -H rH t) •H q. O *: Ä fc cn...S3 rt «H rH H r-\\ r-i rH. rH rH rH rH "rH i-i rH * 8J ta’ Sl «1 St k 31 ’ 51 rni «’ 51 51 td a. «*-% <"X «"% ^N • /-N *~s •H <"^ <^N »*N

  7. The H IX galaxy survey - II. H I kinematics of H I eXtreme galaxies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lutz, K. A.; Kilborn, V. A.; Koribalski, B. S.; Catinella, B.; Józsa, G. I. G.; Wong, O. I.; Stevens, A. R. H.; Obreschkow, D.; Dénes, H.

    2018-05-01

    By analysing a sample of galaxies selected from the H I Parkes All Sky Survey (HIPASS) to contain more than 2.5 times their expected H I content based on their optical properties, we investigate what drives these H I eXtreme (H IX) galaxies to be so H I-rich. We model the H I kinematics with the Tilted Ring Fitting Code TiRiFiC and compare the observed H IX galaxies to a control sample of galaxies from HIPASS as well as simulated galaxies built with the semi-analytic model DARK SAGE. We find that (1) H I discs in H IX galaxies are more likely to be warped and more likely to host H I arms and tails than in the control galaxies, (2) the average H I and average stellar column density of H IX galaxies is comparable to the control sample, (3) H IX galaxies have higher H I and baryonic specific angular momenta than control galaxies, (4) most H IX galaxies live in higher spin haloes than most control galaxies. These results suggest that H IX galaxies are H I-rich because they can support more H I against gravitational instability due to their high specific angular momentum. The majority of the H IX galaxies inherits their high specific angular momentum from their halo. The H I content of H IX galaxies might be further increased by gas-rich minor mergers. This paper is based on data obtained with the Australia Telescope Compact Array through the large program C 2705.

  8. Conditioned media from differentiating craniofacial bone marrow stromal cells influence mineralization and proliferation in periodontal ligament stem cells.

    PubMed

    Jin, Zhenyu; Feng, Yuan; Liu, Hongwei

    2016-10-01

    Previous reports have mainly focused on the behavioral responses of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) in interaction with tibia bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). However, there is little study on the biologic features of hPDLSCs under the induction of maxilla BMSCs (M-BMSCs) at different phases of osteogenic differentiation. We hypothesized that M-BMSCs undergoing osteogenic differentiation acted on the proliferation, differentiation, and bone-forming capacity of hPDLSCs. In this paper, primary hPDLSCs and human M-BMSCs (hM-BMSCs) were expanded in vitro. After screening of surface markers for characterization, hPDLSCs were cocultured with different phases of differentiating hM-BMSCs. Cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity were examined, and mineralization-associated markers such as osteocalcin and runt-related transcription factor 2 of hPDLSCs in coculture with uninduced/osteoinduced hM-BMSCs were evaluated. hPDLSCs in hM-BMSCs-conditioned medium (hM-BMSCs-CM) group showed a reduction in proliferation compared with untreated hPDLSCs, while osteoinduced hM-BMSCs for 10 day-conditioned medium (hM-BMSCs-CM-10ds) and osteoinduced hM-BMSCs for 15 day-conditioned medium (hM-BMSCs-CM-15ds) enhance the proliferation of hPDLSCs. hM-BMSCs of separate differentiation stages temporarily inhibited osteogenesis of hPDLSCs in the early days. Upon extending time periods, uninduced/osteoinduced hM-BMSCs markedly enhanced osteogenesis of hPDLSCs to different degrees. The transplantation results showed hM-BMSCs-CM-15ds treatment promoted tissue regeneration to generate cementum/periodontal ligament-like structure characterized by hard-tissue formation. This research supported the notion that hM-BMSCs triggered osteogenesis of hPDLSCs suggesting important implications for periodontal engineering.

  9. Clinical utility of pH paper versus pH meter in the measurement of critical gastric pH in stress ulcer prophylaxis.

    PubMed

    Bradley, J S; Phillips, J O; Cavanaugh, J E; Metzler, M H

    1998-11-01

    To evaluate the clinical utility of measuring gastric pH with a pH meter vs. pH paper in critical care patients. Prospective comparison of gastric pH measurements, using both pH meter and pH paper. Surgical intensive care unit (ICU) at a rural Midwestern university medical center. Fifty-one patients who received therapy for prophylaxis of stress ulcers in the surgical ICU. Therapy for stress ulcer prophylaxis was monitored. The pH of 985 gastric samples, taken from 51 patients, was measured with both pH meter and pH paper. The pH meter and pH paper measures demonstrated a concordance correlation coefficient of .896. The mean difference between the two measures (pH paper - pH meter) was estimated to be between -0.4 and 1.4, suggesting a positive bias for the paper. The prevalence of events representing clinically relevant differences between the pH meter and pH paper in the measurement of the same gastric sample was calculated. The frequency with which each of the events occurred consecutively (or, in one case, two nearly consecutive events on the same day) was also calculated. Bias in a clinically relevant range was estimated. A set of "probability profiles" was constructed. A hand-held pH meter and pH paper are not interchangeable measures of gastric pH. The pH paper exhibits an appreciable positive bias compared with a hand-held pH meter in the clinically relevant range of 2 to 6. More research is needed to determine if that bias affects treatment outcomes. We recommend the use of a pH meter for patients who demonstrate pH readings of < or = 4, consecutive with readings of < or = 5.

  10. Revision of New World Helava Masner & Huggert

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Nine new species of Helava are described: H. acutiventris sp. n., H. allomera sp. n., H. aureipes sp. n., H. carinata sp. n., H. microptera sp. n., H. pygmea sp. n., H. reducta sp. n., H. simplex sp. n., and H. samanthae sp. n., and Helava alticola Masner & Huggert is redescribed. New characters are...

  11. 48 CFR Appendix H to Chapter 2 - Debarment and Suspension Procedures

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Procedures H Appendix H to Chapter 2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Ch. 2, App. H Appendix H to Chapter 2—Debarment and Suspension Procedures Sec. H-100Scope. H-101Notification. H-102Nature of proceeding. H-103Presentation of matters in...

  12. Selected Manpower Statistics, FY-58

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1959-01-31

    oro«nfn ■k i% « % A n «fc ^^^«s O m rtt r r-t vp O O CM H H o H H H H H H W HHHHHH «Or-lcot-t^t^ o«»^^«»!«^© irs...OOHriHH Ov O»«) rH rH HHHHHH CM HHHHHH 0\\ t~ ON ON IT ON H 0> ITi imss nail Is ►->•<« o a ö •-» ^ s par.60 t o s i |2

  13. Structure-based nuclear import mechanism of histones H3 and H4 mediated by Kap123

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    An, Sojin; Yoon, Jungmin; Kim, Hanseong

    Kap123, a major karyopherin protein of budding yeast, recognizes the nuclear localization signals (NLSs) of cytoplasmic histones H3 and H4 and translocates them into the nucleus during DNA replication. Mechanistic questions include H3- and H4-NLS redundancy toward Kap123 and the role of the conserved diacetylation of cytoplasmic H4 (K5ac and K12ac) in Kap123-mediated histone nuclear translocation. Here, we report crystal structures of full-length Kluyveromyces lactis Kap123 alone and in complex with H3- and H4-NLSs. Structures reveal the unique feature of Kap123 that possesses two discrete lysine-binding pockets for NLS recognition. Structural comparison illustrates that H3- and H4-NLSs share at leastmore » one of two lysine-binding pockets, suggesting that H3- and H4-NLSs are mutually exclusive. Additionally, acetylation of key lysine residues at NLS, particularly H4-NLS diacetylation, weakens the interaction with Kap123. These data support that cytoplasmic histone H4 diacetylation weakens the Kap123-H4-NLS interaction thereby facilitating histone Kap123-H3-dependent H3:H4/Asf1 complex nuclear translocation.« less

  14. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhang, Shaoguang; Appel, Aaron M.; Bullock, R. Morris

    Controlling the heterolytic cleavage of the H-H bond of dihydrogen is critically important in catalytic hydrogenations and in the catalytic oxidation of H2. We show how the rate of reversible heterolytic cleavage of H2 can be controlled over nearly four orders of magnitude at 25 °C, from 2.1 × 103 s-1 to ≥107 s-1. Bifunctional Mo complexes, [CpMo(CO)(κ3-P2N2)]+ (P2N2 = 1,5-diaza-3,7-diphosphacyclooctane with alkyl/aryl groups on N and P), have been developed for heterolytic cleavage of H2 into a proton and a hydride, akin to Frustrated Lewis Pairs. The H-H bond cleavage is enabled by the basic amine in the secondmore » coordination sphere. The products of heterolytic cleavage of H2, Mo hydride complexes bearing protonated amines, [CpMo(H)(CO)(P2N2H)]+, were characterized by spectroscopic studies and by X-ray crystallography. Variable temperature 1H, 15N and 2-D 1H-1H ROESY NMR spectra indicated rapid exchange of the proton and hydride. The exchange rates are in the order [CpMo(H)(CO)(PPh2NPh2H)]+ > [CpMo(H)(CO)(PtBu2NPh2H)]+ > [CpMo(H)(CO)(PPh2NBn2H)]+ > [CpMo(H)(CO)(PtBu2NBn2H)]+ > [CpMo(H)(CO)(PtBu2NtBu2H)]+. The pKa values determined in acetonitrile range from 9.3 to 17.7, and show a linear correlation with the logarithm of the exchange rates. Thus the exchange dynamics are controlled through the relative acidity of the [CpMo(H)(CO)(P2N2H)]+ and [CpMo(H2)(CO)(P2N2)]+ isomers, providing a design principle for controlling heterolytic cleavage of H2.« less

  15. Homotopy Algorithm for Fixed Order Mixed H2/H(infinity) Design

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Whorton, Mark; Buschek, Harald; Calise, Anthony J.

    1996-01-01

    Recent developments in the field of robust multivariable control have merged the theories of H-infinity and H-2 control. This mixed H-2/H-infinity compensator formulation allows design for nominal performance by H-2 norm minimization while guaranteeing robust stability to unstructured uncertainties by constraining the H-infinity norm. A key difficulty associated with mixed H-2/H-infinity compensation is compensator synthesis. A homotopy algorithm is presented for synthesis of fixed order mixed H-2/H-infinity compensators. Numerical results are presented for a four disk flexible structure to evaluate the efficiency of the algorithm.

  16. Comparison of Fire and Smoke Simulator (FSSIM) Predictions with Hydraulic Fluid Spray Fire Test Data

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-12-10

    fluid (MIL-PRF-17331J [15]). Properties of 2190 TEP are given in Table 4. Hatches/Scuttles ID H1 H2 H4 H5 H7 H8 H9 H10 H11 H12 H13 H14 Table 3...m-1). The extinction coefficient, a measure of how much light is absorbed over a given path length, may be obtained from the transmission equation...fire models [7] because it can cause large changes in the effective emissivity of the smoke layer which, in turn, controls the amount of energy

  17. Physical mapping of the 5S and 18S rDNA in ten species of Hypostomus Lacépède 1803 (Siluriformes: Loricariidae): evolutionary tendencies in the genus.

    PubMed

    Bueno, Vanessa; Venere, Paulo César; Thums Konerat, Jocicléia; Zawadzki, Cláudio Henrique; Vicari, Marcelo Ricardo; Margarido, Vladimir Pavan

    2014-01-01

    Hypostomus is a diverse group with unclear aspects regarding its biology, including the mechanisms that led to chromosome diversification within the group. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with 5S and 18S rDNA probes was performed on ten Hypostomini species. Hypostomus faveolus, H. cochliodon, H. albopunctatus, H. aff. paulinus, and H. topavae had only one chromosome pair with 18S rDNA sites, while H. ancistroides, H. commersoni, H. hermanni, H. regani, and H. strigaticeps had multiple 18S rDNA sites. Regarding the 5S rDNA genes, H. ancistroides, H. regani, H. albopunctatus, H. aff. paulinus, and H. topavae had 5S rDNA sites on only one chromosome pair and H. faveolus, H. cochliodon, H. commersoni, H. hermanni, and H. strigaticeps had multiple 5S rDNA sites. Most species had 18S rDNA sites in the telomeric region of the chromosomes. All species but H. cochliodon had 5S rDNA in the centromeric/pericentromeric region of one metacentric pair. Obtained results are discussed based on existent phylogenies for the genus, with comments on possible dispersion mechanisms to justify the variability of the rDNA sites in Hypostomus.

  18. Computational study of red- and blue-shifted Csbnd H⋯Se hydrogen bond in Q3Csbnd H⋯SeH2 (Q = Cl, F, H) complexes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chopra, Pragya; Chakraborty, Shamik

    2018-01-01

    This work presents Csbnd H⋯Se hydrogen bonding interaction at the MP2 level of theory. The system Q3Csbnd H⋯SeH2 (Q = Cl, F, and H) provides an opportunity to investigate red- and blue-shifted hydrogen bonds. The origin of the red- and blue-shift in Csbnd H stretching frequency has been investigated using Natural Bond Orbital analysis. A large amount of electron density is being transferred to the σ∗Csbnd H orbital in red-shifted Cl3Csbnd H⋯SeH2. Electron density transfer in the blue-shifted F3Csbnd H⋯SeH2 is primarily to the remote fluorine atoms. Further, due to polarization of the Csbnd H bond, the contradicting effects of rehybridization and hyperconjugation are important. The extent of hyperconjugation reigns predominant in explaining the nature of the Csbnd H⋯Se hydrogen bond in Q3Csbnd H⋯SeH2 complexes as the hydrogen bond acceptor remain same in this investigation. Red- and blue-shift in Q3Csbnd H⋯SeH2 (Q = Cl and F) complexes is best described by pro-improper hydrogen bond donor concept.

  19. Dibenzo[b,f][1,4]oxazepines and dibenzo[b,e]oxepines: Influence of the chlorine substitution pattern on the pharmacology at the H1R, H4R, 5-HT2AR and other selected GPCRs.

    PubMed

    Naporra, Franziska; Gobleder, Susanne; Wittmann, Hans-Joachim; Spindler, Julia; Bodensteiner, Michael; Bernhardt, Günther; Hübner, Harald; Gmeiner, Peter; Elz, Sigurd; Strasser, Andrea

    2016-11-01

    Inspired by VUF6884 (7-Chloro-11-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)dibenzo[b,f][1,4]oxazepine), reported as a dual H 1 /H 4 receptor ligand (pK i : 8.11 (human H 1 R (hH 1 R)), 7.55 (human H 4 R (hH 4 R))), four known and 28 new oxazepine and related oxepine derivatives were synthesised and pharmacologically characterized at histamine receptors and selected aminergic GPCRs. In contrast to the oxazepine series, within the oxepine series, the new compounds showed high affinity to the hH 1 R (pK i : 6.8-8.7), but no or moderate affinity to the hH 4 R (pK i :≤5.3). For one oxepine derivative (1-(2-Chloro-6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]oxepin-11-yl)-4-methylpiperazine), the enantiomers were separated and the R-enantiomer was identified as the eutomer at the hH 1 R (pK i : 8.83 (R), 7.63 (S)) and the guinea-pig H 1 R (gpH 1 R) (pK i : 8.82 (R), 7.41 (S)). Molecular dynamic studies suggest that the tricyclic core of the compounds is bound in a similar mode into the binding pocket, as described for doxepine in the hH 1 R crystal structure. Moreover, docking studies of all oxepine derivatives at the hH 1 R indicate that the oxygen and the position of the chlorine in the tricyclic core determines, if the R- or the S-enantiomer is the eutomer. For some of the oxazepines and oxepines the affinity to other aminergic GPCRs is in the same range as to hH 1 R or hH 4 R, thus, those compounds have to be classified as dirty drugs. However, one oxazepine derivative (3,7-Dichloro-11-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)dibenzo[b,f][1,4]oxazepine was identified as dual hH 1 /h5-HT 2A receptor ligand (pK i : 9.23 (hH 1 R), 8.74 (h5-HT 2A R), ≤7 at other analysed GPCRs), whereas one oxepine derivative (1-(3,8-Dichloro-6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]oxepin-11-yl)-4-methylpiperazine) was identified as selective hH 1 R antagonist (pK i : 8.44 (hH 1 R), ≤6.7 at other analyzed GPCRs). Thus, the pharmacological results suggest that the oxazepine/oxepine moiety and additionally the chlorine substitution pattern toggles receptor selectivity and specificity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Metal Oxide Supported Vanadium Substituted Keggin Type Polyoxometalates as Catalyst For Oxidation of Dibenzothiophene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lesbani, Aldes; Novri Meilyana, Sarah; Karim, Nofi; Hidayati, Nurlisa; Said, Muhammad; Mohadi, Risfidian; Miksusanti

    2018-01-01

    Supported polyoxometalatate H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O with metal oxide i.e. silica, titanium, and tantalum was successfully synthesized via wet impregnation method to form H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O-Si, H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O-Ti, and H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O-Ta. Characterization was performed using FTIR spectroscopy, X-Ray analyses, and morphology analyses using SEM. All compounds were used as the catalyst for desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT). Silica and titanium supported polyoxometalate H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O better than tantalum due to retaining crystallinity after impregnation process. On the other hand, compound H H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O-Ta showed high catalytic activity than other supported metal oxides for desulfurization of DBT. Optimization desulfurization process resulted in 99% conversion of DBT under a mild condition at 70 °C, 0.1 g catalyst, and reaction for 3 hours. Regeneration studies showed catalyst H4[γ-H2SiV2W10O40]·nH2O-Ti was remaining catalytic activity for desulfurization of DBT.

  1. Exotic properties of a voltage-gated proton channel from the snail Helisoma trivolvis.

    PubMed

    Thomas, Sarah; Cherny, Vladimir V; Morgan, Deri; Artinian, Liana R; Rehder, Vincent; Smith, Susan M E; DeCoursey, Thomas E

    2018-06-04

    Voltage-gated proton channels, H V 1, were first reported in Helix aspersa snail neurons. These H + channels open very rapidly, two to three orders of magnitude faster than mammalian H V 1. Here we identify an H V 1 gene in the snail Helisoma trivolvis and verify protein level expression by Western blotting of H. trivolvis brain lysate. Expressed in mammalian cells, HtH V 1 currents in most respects resemble those described in other snails, including rapid activation, 476 times faster than hH V 1 (human) at pH o 7, between 50 and 90 mV. In contrast to most H V 1, activation of HtH V 1 is exponential, suggesting first-order kinetics. However, the large gating charge of ∼5.5 e 0 suggests that HtH V 1 functions as a dimer, evidently with highly cooperative gating. HtH V 1 opening is exquisitely sensitive to pH o , whereas closing is nearly independent of pH o Zn 2+ and Cd 2+ inhibit HtH V 1 currents in the micromolar range, slowing activation, shifting the proton conductance-voltage ( g H - V ) relationship to more positive potentials, and lowering the maximum conductance. This is consistent with HtH V 1 possessing three of the four amino acids that coordinate Zn 2+ in mammalian H V 1. All known H V 1 exhibit ΔpH-dependent gating that results in a 40-mV shift of the g H - V relationship for a unit change in either pH o or pH i This property is crucial for all the functions of H V 1 in many species and numerous human cells. The HtH V 1 channel exhibits normal or supernormal pH o dependence, but weak pH i dependence. Under favorable conditions, this might result in the HtH V 1 channel conducting inward currents and perhaps mediating a proton action potential. The anomalous ΔpH-dependent gating of HtH V 1 channels suggests a structural basis for this important property, which is further explored in this issue (Cherny et al. 2018. J. Gen. Physiol. https://doi.org/10.1085/jgp.201711968). © 2018 Thomas et al.

  2. Effect of the Phosphine Steric and Electronic Profile on the Rh-Promoted Dehydrocoupling of Phosphine–Boranes

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    The electronic and steric effects in the stoichiometric dehydrocoupling of secondary and primary phosphine–boranes H3B·PR2H [R = 3,5-(CF3)2C6H3; p-(CF3)C6H4; p-(OMe)C6H4; adamantyl, Ad] and H3B·PCyH2 to form the metal-bound linear diboraphosphines H3B·PR2BH2·PR2H and H3B·PRHBH2·PRH2, respectively, are reported. Reaction of [Rh(L)(η6-FC6H5)][BArF4] [L = Ph2P(CH2)3PPh2, ArF = 3,5-(CF3)2C6H3] with 2 equiv of H3B·PR2H affords [Rh(L)(H)(σ,η-PR2BH3)(η1-H3B·PR2H)][BArF4]. These complexes undergo dehydrocoupling to give the diboraphosphine complexes [Rh(L)(H)(σ,η2-PR2·BH2PR2·BH3)][BArF4]. With electron-withdrawing groups on the phosphine–borane there is the parallel formation of the products of B–P cleavage, [Rh(L)(PR2H)2][BArF4], while with electron-donating groups no parallel product is formed. For the bulky, electron rich, H3B·P(Ad)2H no dehydrocoupling is observed, but an intermediate Rh(I) σ phosphine–borane complex is formed, [Rh(L){η2-H3B·P(Ad)2H}][BArF4], that undergoes B–P bond cleavage to give [Rh(L){η1-H3B·P(Ad)2H}{P(Ad)2H}][BArF4]. The relative rates of dehydrocoupling of H3B·PR2H (R = aryl) show that increasingly electron-withdrawing substituents result in faster dehydrocoupling, but also suffer from the formation of the parallel product resulting from P–B bond cleavage. H3B·PCyH2 undergoes a similar dehydrocoupling process, and gives a mixture of stereoisomers of the resulting metal-bound diboraphosphine that arise from activation of the prochiral P–H bonds, with one stereoisomer favored. This diastereomeric mixture may also be biased by use of a chiral phosphine ligand. The selectivity and efficiencies of resulting catalytic dehydrocoupling processes are also briefly discussed. PMID:24617924

  3. Human Umbilical Cord MSCs as New Cell Sources for Promoting Periodontal Regeneration in Inflammatory Periodontal Defect

    PubMed Central

    Shang, Fengqing; Liu, Shiyu; Ming, Leiguo; Tian, Rong; Jin, Fang; Ding, Yin; Zhang, Yongjie; Zhang, Hongmei; Deng, Zhihong; Jin, Yan

    2017-01-01

    Human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) transplantation represents a promising approach for periodontal regeneration; however, the cell source is limited due to the invasive procedure required for cell isolation. As human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) can be harvested inexpensively and inexhaustibly, here we evaluated the regenerative potentials of hUCMSCs as compared with hPDLSCs to determine whether hUCMSCs could be used as new cell sources for periodontal regeneration. Methods The characteristics of hUCMSCs, including multi-differentiation ability and anti-inflammatory capability, were determined by comparison with hPDLSCs. We constructed cell aggregates (CA) using hUCMSCs and hPDLSCs respectively. Then hPDLSCs-CA and hUCMSCs-CA were combined with β-tricalcium phosphate bioceramic (β-TCP) respectively and their regenerative potentials were determined in a rat inflammatory periodontal defect model. Results hPDLSCs showed higher osteogenic differentiation potentials than hUCMSCs. Meanwhile, hUCMSCs showed higher extracellular matrix secretion and anti-inflammatory abilities than hPDLSCs. Similar to hPDLSCs, hUCMSCs were able to contribute to regeneration of both soft and hard periodontal tissues under inflammatory periodontitis condition. There were more newly formed bone and periodontal ligaments in hPDLSCs and hUCMSCs groups than in non-cell treated group. Moreover, no significant differences of regenerative promoting effects between hPDLSCs and hUCMSCs were found. Conclusion: hUCMSCs generated similar promoting effects on periodontal regeneration compared with hPDLSCs, and can be used as new cell sources for periodontal regeneration. PMID:29158833

  4. Human Umbilical Cord MSCs as New Cell Sources for Promoting Periodontal Regeneration in Inflammatory Periodontal Defect.

    PubMed

    Shang, Fengqing; Liu, Shiyu; Ming, Leiguo; Tian, Rong; Jin, Fang; Ding, Yin; Zhang, Yongjie; Zhang, Hongmei; Deng, Zhihong; Jin, Yan

    2017-01-01

    Human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) transplantation represents a promising approach for periodontal regeneration; however, the cell source is limited due to the invasive procedure required for cell isolation. As human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) can be harvested inexpensively and inexhaustibly, here we evaluated the regenerative potentials of hUCMSCs as compared with hPDLSCs to determine whether hUCMSCs could be used as new cell sources for periodontal regeneration. Methods The characteristics of hUCMSCs, including multi-differentiation ability and anti-inflammatory capability, were determined by comparison with hPDLSCs. We constructed cell aggregates (CA) using hUCMSCs and hPDLSCs respectively. Then hPDLSCs-CA and hUCMSCs-CA were combined with β-tricalcium phosphate bioceramic (β-TCP) respectively and their regenerative potentials were determined in a rat inflammatory periodontal defect model. Results hPDLSCs showed higher osteogenic differentiation potentials than hUCMSCs. Meanwhile, hUCMSCs showed higher extracellular matrix secretion and anti-inflammatory abilities than hPDLSCs. Similar to hPDLSCs, hUCMSCs were able to contribute to regeneration of both soft and hard periodontal tissues under inflammatory periodontitis condition. There were more newly formed bone and periodontal ligaments in hPDLSCs and hUCMSCs groups than in non-cell treated group. Moreover, no significant differences of regenerative promoting effects between hPDLSCs and hUCMSCs were found. Conclusion : hUCMSCs generated similar promoting effects on periodontal regeneration compared with hPDLSCs, and can be used as new cell sources for periodontal regeneration.

  5. Store Separations From a Supersonic Cone

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-03-01

    L DK/9H|; 21W-0< ,.LMD >DK/@HX½1¢, H|3*]�&¢DK>4ɜH|C H�I21WDK, > L@C 14L95 :H|3 > 3 ;=,.L H|L9C H|; .H 1 HJ3K1 ,.L ? ODK /9H...4; @I)DKH¯C > .I9D ,.> L@C{143 >4I@L@5 -J> ; .H 5¢L21W; , - HJ> ;=HJDK36,.HJC|8QA236> ; 14LH -J,.HJL@-C6D01WL@5 :> ,.LMD? ODK /9H 3...H 93 H|C6C I@36H > ]�[)8 [ ` I@C6,.L $ �I21^DK,.>4L@CQ\\ D /@3 > I /a º` ` [ t8 P½C½>4L@HU-14LC HJH4? ODK /@H

  6. Evidence that MHC I-E dampens thyroid autoantibodies and prevents spreading to a second thyroid autoantigen in I-Ak NOD mice

    PubMed Central

    Pelletier, Adam-Nicolas; Aliesky, Holly A.; Banuelos, Bianca; Chabot-Roy, Geneviève; Rapoport, Basil; Lesage, Sylvie; McLachlan, Sandra M

    2015-01-01

    NOD.H2k and NOD.H2h4 mice carry the MHC class II molecule I-Ak associated with susceptibility to experimentally-induced thyroiditis. Dietary iodine enhanced spontaneous thyroid autoimmunity, well known in NOD.H2h4 mice, has not been investigated in NOD.H2k mice. We compared NOD.H2h4 and NOD.H2k strains for thyroiditis and autoantibodies to thyroglobulin (TgAb) and thyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) without or with dietary sodium iodide (NaI) for up to 32 weeks. TgAb levels were significantly higher in NOD.H2h4 than NOD.H2k mice on NaI and TPOAb developed in NOD.H2h4 but not NOD.H2k mice. DNA exome analysis revealed, in addition to the differences in the chromosome (Chr) 17 MHC regions, that NOD.H2k and particularly NOD.H2h4 mice have substantial non-MHC parental DNA. KEGG pathway-analysis highlighted thyroid autoimmunity and immune-response genes on Chr 17 but not on Chr 7 and 15 parental B10.A4R DNA. Studies of parental strains provided no evidence for non-MHC gene contributions. The exon 10 thyroglobulin haplotype, associated with experimentally-induced thyroiditis, is absent in NOD.H2h4 and NOD.H2k mice and is not a marker for spontaneous murine thyroid autoimmunity. In conclusion, the absence of I-E is a likely explanation for the difference between NOD.H2h4 and NOD.H2k mice in TgAb levels and, as in humans, autoantibody spreading to TPO. PMID:25811933

  7. In vitro responses to avian influenza H5 by human CD4 T-cells*

    PubMed Central

    Cusick, Matthew F; Wang, Shuping; Eckels, David D

    2009-01-01

    To address the question of whether human T-cells are capable of recognizing novel isolates of influenza virus, in vitro responses to recombinant antigens and synthetic peptides derived from the sequences of H1, H3, and H5 were examined in a cohort of 64 individuals selected from a healthy blood donor population. Humans respond in vitro to H1 and H3 following exposure through natural infection and vaccination. Responses to H5 were well correlated with those to H1 or H3 and thus a significant repertoire of H5-responsive T-cells is present in many individuals; clear non-responders to H1, H3, and H5, however, do exist. Differences were observed in the cytokine responses to H1, H3, and H5; whereas both IL-2 and IFN-γ production characteristic of memory responses were observed for H1 and H3, H5-specific responses elicited primarily IL-2 and little or no IFN-γ consistent with a naïve T cell phenotype. Responses to all influenza HA were restricted by HLA-DR molecules. To address the structural basis for T-cell recognition of H1 and H5, overlapping synthetic peptides were used to identify epitopes and to determine whether recognition of H5 was limited to homologous sequences in H1, the most closely related HA phylogenetically. Although responses were generally correlated, no complete structural overlap was observed. These results suggest that helper T cell cross reactivity between different influenza strains may impart cross-protection to H5N1 strain of influenza. PMID:19841175

  8. Infrared spectra of the 1-pyridinium (C5H5NH+) cation and pyridinyl (C5H5NH and 4-C5H6N) radicals isolated in solid para-hydrogen.

    PubMed

    Golec, Barbara; Das, Prasanta; Bahou, Mohammed; Lee, Yuan-Pern

    2013-12-19

    Protonated pyridine and its neutral counterparts (C5H6N) are important intermediates in organic and biological reactions and in the atmosphere. We have recorded the IR absorption spectra of the 1-pyridinium (C5H5NH(+)) cation, 1-pyridinyl (C5H5NH), and 4-pyridinyl (4-C5H6N) produced on electron bombardment during matrix deposition of a mixture of pyridine (C5H5N) and p-H2 at 3.2 K; all spectra were previously unreported. The IR features of C5H5NH(+) diminished in intensity after the matrix was maintained in darkness for 15 h, whereas those of C5H5NH and 4-C5H6N radicals increased. Irradiation of this matrix with light at 365 nm diminished lines of C5H5NH(+) and C5H5NH but enhanced lines of 4-C5H6N slightly, whereas irradiation at 405 nm diminished lines of 4-C5H6N significantly. Observed wavenumbers and relative intensities of these species agree satisfactorily with the anharmonic vibrational wavenumbers and IR intensities predicted with the B3LYP/6-31++G(d,p) method. Assignments of C5H5NH and 4-C5H6N radicals were further supported by the observation of similar spectra when a Cl2/C5H5N/p-H2 matrix was irradiated first at 365 nm and then with IR light to generate H atoms to induce the H + C5H5N reaction.

  9. 75 FR 11935 - Technical Change to the Filing Location of Prevailing Wage Determinations for Use in the H-1B, H...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-12

    ... of Prevailing Wage Determinations for Use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, H- 2B, E-3 (Australia), and Permanent Labor Certification Programs; Prevailing Wage Determinations for Use in the... address where prevailing wage determination requests for H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, H- 2B, E-3...

  10. A Case Study On Pile Relaxation In Dilative Silts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-12-20

    HHH +~H+~~++~~ r losr-~~~~~~~~~~~~H 21~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~HH~~~~++~~~~44~ ~110~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 22HHHH~--HHHH44~44444444~ r-H4+++H...i ne gravel, trace of clay, medium dense , wet. SILT, grey, and fine sand, medium stiff, non plastic, wet. -HH++ HHH +~H4~~++HH4 f- 45 1 01-H-HH-1...rHH++HH4~HH4 8HH+rH+.rH++HH+~H++H -HH++ HHH ++HH+~HH++HH4 --40~++HH~+HH+~HH++HH~ 9H+~H++HH++HH+rHH+~ --HH++~~rHH++HH4++HH4 _ srq-+H~~H++H4+HH4

  11. Dynamics of carbon-hydrogen and carbon-methyl exchanges in the collision of 3P atomic carbon with propene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Shih-Huang; Chen, Wei-Kan; Chin, Chih-Hao; Huang, Wen-Jian

    2013-11-01

    We investigated the dynamics of the reaction of 3P atomic carbon with propene (C3H6) at reactant collision energy 3.8 kcal mol-1 in a crossed molecular-beam apparatus using synchrotron vacuum-ultraviolet ionization. Products C4H5, C4H4, C3H3, and CH3 were observed and attributed to exit channels C4H5 + H, C4H4 + 2H, and C3H3 + CH3; their translational-energy distributions and angular distributions were derived from the measurements of product time-of-flight spectra. Following the addition of a 3P carbon atom to the C=C bond of propene, cyclic complex c-H2C(C)CHCH3 undergoes two separate stereoisomerization mechanisms to form intermediates E- and Z-H2CCCHCH3. Both the isomers of H2CCCHCH3 in turns decompose to C4H5 + H and C3H3 + CH3. A portion of C4H5 that has enough internal energy further decomposes to C4H4 + H. The three exit channels C4H5 + H, C4H4 + 2H, and C3H3 + CH3 have average translational energy releases 13.5, 3.2, and 15.2 kcal mol-1, respectively, corresponding to fractions 0.26, 0.41, and 0.26 of available energy deposited to the translational degrees of freedom. The H-loss and 2H-loss channels have nearly isotropic angular distributions with a slight preference at the forward direction particularly for the 2H-loss channel. In contrast, the CH3-loss channel has a forward and backward peaked angular distribution with an enhancement at the forward direction. Comparisons with reactions of 3P carbon atoms with ethene, vinyl fluoride, and vinyl chloride are stated.

  12. Structural basis for recognition of H3K56-acetylated histone H3-H4 by the chaperone Rtt106

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Su, Dan; Hu, Qi; Li, Qing

    2013-04-08

    Dynamic variations in the structure of chromatin influence virtually all DNA-related processes in eukaryotes and are controlled in part by post-translational modifications of histones. One such modification, the acetylation of lysine 56 (H3K56ac) in the amino-terminal α-helix (αN) of histone H3, has been implicated in the regulation of nucleosome assembly during DNA replication and repair, and nucleosome disassembly during gene transcription. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the histone chaperone Rtt106 contributes to the deposition of newly synthesized H3K56ac-carrying H3-H4 complex on replicating DNA, but it is unclear how Rtt106 binds H3-H4 and specifically recognizes H3K56ac as there is no apparent acetylated lysinemore » reader domain in Rtt106. Here, we show that two domains of Rtt106 are involved in a combinatorial recognition of H3-H4. An N-terminal domain homodimerizes and interacts with H3-H4 independently of acetylation while a double pleckstrin-homology (PH) domain binds the K56-containing region of H3. Affinity is markedly enhanced upon acetylation of K56, an effect that is probably due to increased conformational entropy of the αN helix of H3. Our data support a mode of interaction where the N-terminal homodimeric domain of Rtt106 intercalates between the two H3-H4 components of the (H3-H4) 2 tetramer while two double PH domains in the Rtt106 dimer interact with each of the two H3K56ac sites in (H3-H4) 2. We show that the Rtt106-(H3-H4) 2 interaction is important for gene silencing and the DNA damage response.« less

  13. pH tolerance in freshwater bacterioplankton: trait variation of the community as measured by leucine incorporation.

    PubMed

    Bååth, Erland; Kritzberg, Emma

    2015-11-01

    pH is an important factor determining bacterial community composition in soil and water. We have directly determined the community tolerance (trait variation) to pH in communities from 22 lakes and streams ranging in pH from 4 to 9 using a growth-based method not relying on distinguishing between individual populations. The pH in the water samples was altered to up to 16 pH values, covering in situ pH ± 2.5 U, and the tolerance was assessed by measuring bacterial growth (Leu incorporation) instantaneously after pH adjustment. The resulting unimodal response curves, reflecting community tolerance to pH, were well modeled with a double logistic equation (mean R(2) = 0.97). The optimal pH for growth (pHopt) among the bacterial communities was closely correlated with in situ pH, with a slope (0.89 ± 0.099) close to unity. The pH interval, in which growth was ≥90% of that at pHopt, was 1.1 to 3 pH units wide (mean 2.0 pH units). Tolerance response curves of communities originating from circum-neutral pH were symmetrical, whereas in high-pH (8.9) and especially in low-pH (<5.5) waters, asymmetric tolerance curves were found. In low-pH waters, decreasing pH was more detrimental for bacterial growth than increasing pH, with a tendency for the opposite for high-pH waters. A pH tolerance index, using the ratio of growth at only two pH values (pH 4 and 8), was closely related to pHopt (R(2) = 0.83), allowing for easy determination of pH tolerance during rapid changes in pH. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  14. Laser photoelectron spectroscopy of CrH - , CoH - , and NiH - : Periodic trends in the electronic structure of the transition-metal hydrides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stevens Miller, Amy E.; Feigerle, C. S.; Lineberger, W. C.

    1987-08-01

    The laser photoelectron spectra of CrH-, CoH-, and NiH- and the analogous deuterides are reported. The spectra are interpreted using a qualitative description of the electronic structure for the hydrides. This model is used to assign off-diagonal transitions in the photodetachment to low-spin states of the neutrals, and diagonal transitions to high-spin states of the neutrals. These data are used to identify the high-spin states of CoH and NiH; several other states of CrH, CoH, and NiH are also identified. Periodic trends in the bond lengths, vibrational frequencies, and electronic excitation energies for the MnH through NiH molecules are examined. Electron affinities are reported for CrH (0.563±0.010 eV), CoH (0.671±0.010 eV), and NiH (0.481±0.007 eV), and the corresponding deuterides.

  15. Burnout Thresholds and Cross Section of Power MOS Transistors with Heavy Ions

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-02-01

    qIIiH I I I II 11 tH HHif- >HO0 A A A Z P4’ 0 ~ 110 U) to o 0 0 100 11100 00 coU IIC W t-3 t 0 1 00 1 1 100 co ol U 4Ji I V I H- IHrqH I I I H r-I A H H...Wo. W to to Hri ottoo4 t) L OL OL OtLO ca P4 H Hx (n U) 0 U) H1- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 IQ rd 0 Hq H HA H H Hq H Hi H- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Hi 0 m~ ~ LOz O H H O I...DEVICE: 2N6788 (IRFF12O) MFR: IR PDC: 8440 (2) 0 .1 ........... ... - 1.OE-2 E &1.OE-3 z7 0 S1.OE-5 b 0 1.OE-6 LET=30 1. OL -7....... I11 70 80 90 100

  16. 77 FR 19061 - Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-03-30

    ... directive (AD) for Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350, PC-6/350-H1, PC- 6/350-H2, PC-6/A, PC-6/A-H1, PC-6/A-H2, PC-6/B-H2, PC-6/B1-H2, PC-6/B2- H2, PC-6/B2-H4, PC-6/C-H2, and PC-6/C1... rudder hinge bolts on a PC-6 aeroplane has been reported. The results of the investigations indicate that...

  17. Differential homologous desensitization of the human histamine H3 receptors of 445 and 365 amino acids expressed in CHO-K1 cells.

    PubMed

    García-Gálvez, Ana-Maricela; Escamilla-Sánchez, Juan; Flores-Maldonado, Catalina; Contreras, Rubén-Gerardo; Arias, Juan-Manuel; Arias-Montaño, José-Antonio

    2018-01-01

    Histamine H 3 receptors (H 3 Rs) signal through Gα i/o proteins and are found in neuronal cells as auto- and hetero-receptors. Alternative splicing of the human H 3 R (hH 3 R) originates 20 isoforms, and the mRNAs of two receptors of 445 and 365 amino acids (hH 3 R 445 and hH 3 R 365 ) are widely expressed in the human brain. We previously showed that the hH 3 R 445 stably expressed in CHO-K1 cells experiences homologous desensitization. The hH 3 R 365 lacks 80 residues in the third intracellular loop, and in this work we therefore studied whether this isoform also experiences homologous desensitization and the possible differences with the hH 3 R 445 . In clones of CHO-K1 cells stably expressing similar receptor levels (211 ± 12 and 199 ± 16 fmol/mg protein for hH 3 R 445 and hH 3 R 365 , respectively), there were no differences in receptor affinity for selective H 3 R ligands or for agonist-induced [ 35 S]-GTPγS binding to membranes and inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation in intact cells. For both cell clones, pre-incubation with the H 3 R agonist RAMH (1 μM) resulted in functional receptor desensitization, as indicated by cAMP accumulation assays, and loss of receptors from the cell surface and reduced affinity for the agonist immepip in cell membranes, evaluated by radioligand binding. However, functional desensitization differed in the maximal extent (96 ± 15% and 58 ± 8% for hH 3 R 445 and hH 3 R 365 , respectively) and the length of pre-exposure required to reach the maximum desensitization (60 and 30 min, respectively). Furthermore, the isoforms differed in their recovery from desensitization. These results indicate that the hH 3 R 365 experiences homologous desensitization, but that the process differs between the isoforms in time-course, magnitude and re-sensitization. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Formation and infrared absorption of protonated naphthalenes (1-C10H9+ and 2-C10H9+) and their neutral counterparts in solid para-hydrogen.

    PubMed

    Bahou, Mohammed; Wu, Yu-Jong; Lee, Yuan-Pern

    2013-02-14

    Protonated naphthalene (C(10)H(9)(+)) and its neutral counterparts (hydronaphthyl radicals, C(10)H(9)) are important intermediates in the reactions of aromatic compounds and in understanding the unidentified infrared (IR) emissions from interstellar media. We report the IR spectra of 1-C(10)H(9)(+), 2-C(10)H(9)(+), 1-C(10)H(9), and 2-C(10)H(9) trapped in solid para-hydrogen (p-H(2)); the latter three are new. These species were produced upon electron bombardment of a mixture of naphthalene (C(10)H(8)) and p-H(2) during matrix deposition. The intensities of IR features of 1-C(10)H(9)(+) decreased after the matrix was maintained in darkness for 19 h, whereas those of 1-C(10)H(9) and 2-C(10)H(9) increased. Irradiation of this matrix sample with light at 365 nm diminished lines of 1-C(10)H(9)(+) and 2-C(10)H(9) and enhanced lines of 1-C(10)H(9) and 2-C(10)H(9)(+); the latter species was unstable and converted to 1-C(10)H(9)(+) in less than 30 min and 2-C(10)H(9) was converted to 1-C(10)H(9) at 365 nm. Observed wavenumbers and relative intensities of these species agree satisfactorily with the anharmonic vibrational wavenumbers and IR intensities predicted with the B3PW91/6-311++G(2d,2p) method. Compared with spectra recorded previously with IR photodissociation of Ar-tagged C(10)H(9)(+) or IR multiphoton dissociation of C(10)H(9)(+), our method has the advantages of producing high-resolution IR spectra with a wide spectral coverage, true IR intensity and excellent ratio of signal to noise; both protonated species and their neutral counterparts are produced with little interference from other fragments. With these advantages, the IR spectra of 1-C(10)H(9)(+), 2-C(10)H(9)(+), 1-C(10)H(9), and 2-C(10)H(9) are here clearly characterized.

  19. Department of the Navy Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Estimates Justification of Estimates, Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Navy Budget Activity 4

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2000-02-01

    4J — r-\\ ß H ^-- —’ 03 ft — rH 0 — 01 4J ■~^ r-t ß H ftMH - Ü dl 4J rH O dl fttH - CJ dl JJ rH > — e rl ,—. s a — g...C8 IB >-l -H O >HS fttH M — 5 ra ce g Ai rl o ft 0 Ü tt) ft o IB 01 cn d H -H JJ oi fi Jj t-i u CQ co —. <D - in co H tu H

  20. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Xin, Qiaoling, E-mail: xinqiaoling0923@163.com; Jiang, Lining, E-mail: jianglining@bit.edu.cn

    Let G be a finite group and H a normal subgroup. D(H; G) is the crossed product of C(H) and CG which is only a subalgebra of D(G), the double algebra of G. One can construct a C*-subalgebra F{sub H} of the field algebra F of G-spin models, so that F{sub H} is a D(H; G)-module algebra, whereas F is not. Then the observable algebra A{sub (H,G)} is obtained as the D(H; G)-invariant subalgebra of F{sub H}, and there exists a unique C*-representation of D(H; G) such that D(H; G) and A{sub (H,G)} are commutants with each other.

  1. The importance of four histidine residues in isocitrate lyase from Escherichia coli.

    PubMed Central

    Diehl, P; McFadden, B A

    1994-01-01

    By site-directed mutagenesis, substitutions were made for His-184 (H-184), H-197, H-266, and H-306 in Escherichia coli isocitrate lyase. Of these changes, only mutations of H-184 and H-197 appreciably reduced enzyme activity. Mutation of H-184 to Lys, Arg, or Leu resulted in an inactive isocitrate lyase, and mutation of H-184 to Gln resulted in an enzyme with 0.28% activity. Nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated that isocitrate lyase containing the Lys, Arg, Gln, and Leu substitutions at H-184 was assembled poorly into the tetrameric subunit complex. Mutation of H-197 to Lys, Arg, Leu, and Gln resulted in an assembled enzyme with less than 0.25% wild-type activity. Five substitutions for H-266 (Asp, Glu, Val, Ser, and Lys), four substitutions for H-306 (Asp, Glu, Val, and Ser), and a variant in which both H-266 and H-306 were substituted for showed little or no effect on enzyme activity. All the H-197, H-266, and H-306 mutants supported the growth of isocitrate lyase-deficient E. coli JE10 on acetate as the sole carbon source; however, the H-184 mutants did not. Images PMID:8300547

  2. Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG: a new test for discriminating gestational trophoblastic diseases.

    PubMed

    Cole, Laurence A

    2014-11-01

    Hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a variant of hCG with large oligosaccharide side chains. Although hCG is produced by syncytiotrophoblast cells, hyperglycosylated hCG marks cytotrophoblast cell. Hyperglycosylated hCG signals placental implantation. Total hCG in serum and urine is measured by the Siemens Immulite hCG pregnancy test; the result is in milli-international unit per milliliter. Hyperglycosylated hCG is determined by the B152 microtiter plate assay; the result is in nanogram per milliliter. Hyperglycosylated hCG results can be converted to milli-international unit per milliliter equivalents by multiplying by 11. The test measures proportion hyperglycosylated hCG, hyperglycosylated hCG / total hCG. Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG marks cases intent on developing persistent hydatidiform mole (68% detection at 17% false detection). Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG also marks persistent hydatidiform mole (100% detection at 5.1% false detection). Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG distinguishes choriocarcinoma and gestational trophoblastic neoplasm cases, absolutely discriminating aggressive cases and minimally aggressive cases. Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG identifies quiescent gestational trophoblastic disease cases. It recognizes quiescent cases that become persistent disease (100% detection at 0% false positive). Proportion hyperglycosylated hCG is an invaluable test for discriminating gestational trophoblastic diseases.

  3. Gingival Fibroblasts as Autologous Feeders for Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells.

    PubMed

    Yu, G; Okawa, H; Okita, K; Kamano, Y; Wang, F; Saeki, M; Yatani, H; Egusa, H

    2016-01-01

    Human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) present an attractive source of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are expected to be a powerful tool for regenerative dentistry. However, problems to be addressed prior to clinical application include the use of animal-derived feeder cells for cultures. The aim of this study was to establish an autologous hGF-derived iPSC (hGF-iPSC) culture system by evaluating the feeder ability of hGFs. In both serum-containing and serum-free media, hGFs showed higher proliferation than human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs). Three hGF strains were isolated under serum-free conditions, although 2 showed impaired proliferation. When hGF-iPSCs were transferred onto mitomycin C-inactivated hGFs, hDFs, or mouse-derived SNL feeders, hGF and SNL feeders were clearly hGF-iPSC supportive for more than 50 passages, whereas hDF feeders were only able to maintain undifferentiated hGF-iPSC growth for a few passages. After 20 passages on hGF feeders, embryonic stem cell marker expression and CpG methylation at the NANOG and OCT3/4 promoters were similar for hGF-iPSCs cultured on hGF and SNL feeder cells. Long-term cultures of hGF-iPSCs on hGF feeders sustained their normal karyotype and pluripotency. On hGF feeders, hGF-iPSC colonies were surrounded by many colony-derived fibroblast-like cells, and the size of intact colonies at 7 d after passage was significantly larger than that on SNL feeders. Allogeneic hGF strains also maintained hGF-iPSCs for 10 passages. Compared with hDFs, hGFs showed a higher production of laminin-332, laminin α5 chain, and insulin-like growth factor-II, which have been reported to sustain the long-term self-renewal of pluripotent stem cells. These results suggest that hGFs possess an excellent feeder capability and thus can be used as alternatives to conventional mouse-derived SNL and hDF feeders. In addition, our findings suggest that hGF feeders are promising candidates for animal component-free ex vivo expansion of autologous hGF-iPSCs, thus providing an important step toward the future therapeutic application of hGF-iPSCs. © International & American Associations for Dental Research 2015.

  4. Impact of the haplotypes of the human pregnane X receptor gene on the basal and St John's wort-induced activity of cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xue-Ding; Li, Jia-Li; Su, Qi-Biao; Guan, Su; Chen, Jie; Du, Jun; He, Yu-Wen; Zeng, Jun; Zhang, Jin-Xin; Chen, Xiao; Huang, Min; Zhou, Shu-Feng

    2009-01-01

    AIMS Human pregnane X receptor (PXR/NR1I2) is the master regulator of CYP3A4, which metabolizes >50% of drugs on the market. This study investigated the relationship between the two most frequent haplotypes [H1 (TCAGGGGCCACC) and H2 (CCGAAAACTAAT)] of PXR and basal and St John's wort (SJW)-induced CYP3A4 activity. METHODS Ten healthy subjects carrying H1 and H2 haplotypes (three subjects with H1/H1, four with H1/H2 and three with H2/H2) entered this study. The 10 subjects did not carry CYP3A4*4, *5 and *6. All subjects were administrated a 300-mg SJW tablet three times daily for 14 days, and CYP3A4 activity was measured using nifedipine (NIF) as a probe. The plasma concentrations of NIF and dehydronifedipine (DNIF) were determined by a validated liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry method. RESULTS After administration of SJW, the AUC0–∞ of NIF decreased significantly, and the AUC0–∞ of DNIF increased significantly (P < 0.05). For H1/H2, the AUC0–∞ of NIF decreased by 42.4%, and the AUC0–∞ of DNIF increased by 20.2%; for H2/H2, the AUC0–∞ of NIF decreased by 47.9%, and the AUC0–∞ of DNIF increased by 33.0%; for H1/H1, the AUC0–∞ of NIF decreased by 29.0%, yet the AUC0–∞ of DNIF increased by 106.7%. The increase of the AUC0–∞ of DNIF in H1/H1 was significantly different from the other two haplotype pairs (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, before administration of SJW, the ratio of AUC0–∞(DNIF)/AUC0–∞(NIF) was the lowest for H1/H1 (22.1%), compared with H1/H2 (58.7%) and H2/H2 (30.0%). CONCLUSIONS H1/H1 of the human PXR gene had weaker basal transcriptional activity but greater inducible transcriptional activity to CYP3A4 than H1/H2 and H2/H2. PMID:19173680

  5. Regulation of H+ Extrusion and Cytoplasmic pH in Maize Root Tips Acclimated to a Low-Oxygen Environment.

    PubMed

    Xia, J. H.; Roberts, JKM.

    1996-05-01

    We tested the hypothesis that H+ extrusion contributes to cytoplasmic pH regulation and tolerance of anoxia in maize (Zea mays) root tips. We studied root tips of whole seedlings that were acclimated to a low-oxygen environment by pretreatment in 3% (v/v) O2. Acclimated root tips characteristically regulate cytoplasmic pH near neutrality and survive prolonged anoxia, whereas nonacclimated tips undergo severe cytoplasmic acidosis and die much more quickly. We show that the plasma membrane H+-ATPase can operate under anoxia and that net H+ extrusion increases when cytoplasmic pH falls. However, at an external pH near 6.0, H+ extrusion contributes little to cytoplasmic pH regulation. At more acidic external pH values, net H+ flux into root tips increases dramatically, leading to a decrease in cytoplasmic pH and reduced tolerance of anoxia. We present evidence that, under these conditions, H+ pumps are activated to partly offset acidosis due to H+ influx and, thereby, contribute to cytoplasmic pH regulation and tolerance of anoxia. The regulation of H+ extrusion under anoxia is discussed with respect to the acclimation response and mechanisms of intracellular pH regulation in aerobic plant cells.

  6. Analysis of eye health in the Thai population.

    PubMed

    Yospaiboon, Yosanan; Yospaiboon, Kasem; Ratanapakorn, Tanapat; Sinawat, Suthasinee; Sanguansak, Thuss; Bhoomibunchoo, Chavakij

    2012-07-01

    To assess national eye health as a baseline for improving medical education, services and research. Information on eye illness among out- and in-patients was based on hospital claims from the three national health insurance schemes in 2010. The data were analyzed by age groups. In 2010, 4,982,025 out-patient visits and 187,080 in-patient admissions were reported. The five most common outpatient eye conditions were disorders of the (1) conjunctiva (H10-H13) (2) eyelid, lacrimal system and orbit (H00-H06) (3) lens (H25-28) (4) sclera, cornea, iris and ciliary body (H15-H22) and (5) glaucoma (H40-H42). The five most common inpatient eye diseases were (1) disorders of lens (H25-H28) (2) conjunctiva (H10-H13) (3) sclera, cornea, iris and ciliary body (H15-H22) (4) choroid and retina (H30-H35) and (5) glaucoma (H40-H42). Information on the most frequent eye diseases-including the types and frequency of high risk conditions, the diseases causing the most impact on vision and resulting in the highest health expenditures-will be used to (a) revise the curricula for medical education (b) to improve eye care services and (c) to improve access to data for research themes tailored to local and national needs.

  7. Magainin 2a - Induced Permeabilization of Phospholipid Vesicles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-01-02

    flJ ə) fl) C rH -H 0) E M D e t e 1 0 0 % • 43 • fl) J3 0 C3...fl) +) ft-H to U4 EH RJ OP 43 o 4J H -H IS *M 0 0 fl) c to 0 • H O 4J O -H in 73 TJ h RJ 0 MH >t 43 fl) to TJ flj fl) fl) C...r H - H F r e t e r m O fl) VD TJ tp to G rt •rH r% f o l l o w : f 6 C F 1 O 43 0) to T J flJ fl) fl) C rH •H fl) E Ul

  8. The interstellar chemistry of C3H and C3H2 isomers

    PubMed Central

    Loison, Jean-Christophe; Agúndez, Marcelino; Wakelam, Valentine; Roueff, Evelyne; Gratier, Pierre; Marcelino, Núria; Nuñez Reyes, Dianailys; Cernicharo, José; Gerin, Maryvonne

    2017-01-01

    We report the detection of linear and cyclic isomers of C3H and C3H2 towards various starless cores and review the corresponding chemical pathways involving neutral (C3Hx with x=1,2) and ionic (C3Hx+ with x = 1,2,3) isomers. We highlight the role of the branching ratio of electronic Dissociative Recombination (DR) reactions of C3H2+ and C3H3+ isomers showing that the statistical treatment of the relaxation of C3H* and C3H2* produced in these DR reactions may explain the relative c,l-C3H and c,l-C3H2 abundances. We have also introduced in the model the third isomer of C3H2 (HCCCH). The observed cyclic-to-linear C3H2 ratio vary from 110 ± 30 for molecular clouds with a total density around 1×104 molecules.cm-3 to 30 ± 10 for molecular clouds with a total density around 4×105 molecules.cm-3, a trend well reproduced with our updated model. The higher ratio for low molecular cloud densities is mainly determined by the importance of the H + l-C3H2 → H + c-C3H2 and H + t-C3H2 → H + c-C3H2 isomerization reactions. PMID:29142332

  9. Hydrogen storage properties of nanosized MgH2-0.1TiH2 prepared by ultrahigh-energy-high-pressure milling.

    PubMed

    Lu, Jun; Choi, Young Joon; Fang, Zhigang Zak; Sohn, Hong Yong; Rönnebro, Ewa

    2009-11-04

    Magnesium hydride (MgH(2)) is an attractive candidate for solid-state hydrogen storage applications. To improve the kinetics and thermodynamic properties of MgH(2) during dehydrogenation-rehydrogenation cycles, a nanostructured MgH(2)-0.1TiH(2) material system prepared by ultrahigh-energy-high-pressure mechanical milling was investigated. High-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning TEM analysis showed that the grain size of the milled MgH(2)-0.1TiH(2) powder is approximately 5-10 nm with uniform distributions of TiH(2) among MgH(2) particles. Pressure-composition-temperature (PCT) analysis demonstrated that both the nanosize and the addition of TiH(2) contributed to the significant improvement of the kinetics of dehydrogenation and hydrogenation compared to commercial MgH(2). More importantly, PCT cycle analysis demonstrated that the MgH(2)-0.1TiH(2) material system showed excellent cycle stability. The results also showed that the DeltaH value for the dehydrogenation of nanostructured MgH(2)-0.1TiH(2) is significantly lower than that of commercial MgH(2). However, the DeltaS value of the reaction was also lower, which results in minimum net effects of the nanosize and the addition of TiH(2) on the equilibrium pressure of dehydrogenation reaction of MgH(2).

  10. The interstellar chemistry of C3H and C3H2 isomers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Loison, Jean-Christophe; Agúndez, Marcelino; Wakelam, Valentine; Roueff, Evelyne; Gratier, Pierre; Marcelino, Núria; Reyes, Dianailys Nuñez; Cernicharo, José; Gerin, Maryvonne

    2017-10-01

    We report the detection of linear and cyclic isomers of C3H and C3H2 towards various starless cores and review the corresponding chemical pathways involving neutral (C3Hx with x = 1,2) and ionic (C3Hx+ with x = 1,2,3) isomers. We highlight the role of the branching ratio of electronic dissociative recombination (DR) reactions of C3H2+ and C3H3+ isomers, showing that the statistical treatment of the relaxation of C3H* and C3H2* produced in these DR reactions may explain the relative c,l-C3H and c,l-C3H2 abundances. We have also introduced in the model the third isomer of C3H2 (HCCCH). The observed cyclic-to-linear C3H2 ratio varies from 110 ± 30 for molecular clouds with a total density of about 1 × 104 molecules cm-3 to 30 ± 10 for molecular clouds with a total density of about 4 × 105 molecules cm-3, a trend well reproduced with our updated model. The higher ratio for molecular clouds with low densities is determined mainly by the importance of the H + l-C3H2 → H + c-C3H2 and H + t-C3H2 → H + c-C3H2 isomerization reactions.

  11. Little Higgs dark matter after PandaX-II/LUX-2016 and LHC Run-1

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Lei; Yang, Bingfang; Zhang, Mengchao

    2016-12-01

    In the Littlest Higgs model with T-parity (LHT), the T-odd heavy photon ( A H ) is weakly interacting and can play the role of dark matter. We investigate the lower limit on the mass of A H dark matter under the constraints from Higgs data, EWPOs, R b , Planck 2015 dark matter relic abundance, PandaX-II/LUX 2016 direct detections and LHC-8 TeV monojet results. We find that (1) Higgs data, EWPOs and R b can exclude the mass of A H up to 99 GeV. To produce the correct dark matter relic abundance, A H has to co-annihilate with T-odd quarks ( q H ) or leptons ( ℓ H ); (2) the LUX (PandaX-II) 2016 data can further exclude {m}_{A_H} < 380(270) GeV for ℓ H - A H co-annihilation and {m}_{A_H} < 350(240) GeV for q H - A H co-annihilation; (3) LHC-8 TeV monojet result can give a strong lower limit, {m}_{A_H} > 540 GeV, for q H - A H co-annihilation; (4) future XENON1T(2017) experiment can fully cover the parameter space of ℓ H - A H co-annihilation and will push the lower limit of {m}_{A_H} up to about 640 GeV for q H - A H co-annihilation.

  12. Theoretical study of hydrogen bonding interaction in nitroxyl (HNO) dimer: interrelationship of the two N-H...O blue-shifting hydrogen bonds.

    PubMed

    Liu, Ying; Liu, Wenqing; Li, Haiyang; Liu, Jianguo; Yang, Yong

    2006-10-19

    The hydrogen bonding interactions of the HNO dimer have been investigated using ab initio molecular orbital and density functional theory (DFT) with the 6-311++G(2d,2p) basis set. The natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis and atom in molecules (AIM) theory were applied to understand the nature of the interactions. The interrelationship between one N-H...O hydrogen bond and the other N-H...O hydrogen bond has been established by performing partial optimizations. The dimer is stabilized by the N-H...O hydrogen bonding interactions, which lead to the contractions of N-H bonds as well as the characteristic blue-shifts of the stretching vibrational frequencies nu(N-H). The NBO analysis shows that both rehybridization and electron density redistribution contribute to the large blue-shifts of the N-H stretching frequencies. A quantitative correlations of the intermolecular distance H...O (r(H...O)) with the parameters: rho at bond critical points (BCPs), s-characters of N atoms in N-H bonds, electron densities in the sigma*(N-H), the blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H) are presented. The relationship between the difference of rho (|Deltarho|) for the one hydrogen bond compared with the other one and the difference of interaction energy (DeltaE) are also illustrated. It indicates that for r(H...O) ranging from 2.05 to 2.3528 A, with increasing r(H...O), there is the descending tendency for one rho(H...O) and the ascending tendency for the other rho(H...O). r(H...O) ranging from 2.3528 to 2.85 A, there are descending tendencies for the two rho(H...O) with increasing r(H...O). On the potential energy surface of the dimer, the smaller the difference between one rho(H...O) and the other rho(H...O) is, the more stable the structure is. As r(H...O) increases, the blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H) decrease. The cooperative descending tendencies in s-characters of two N atoms with increasing r(H...O) contribute to the decreases in blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H). Ranging from 2.05 to 2.55 A, the increase of the electron density in one sigma*(N-H) with elongating r(H...O) weakens the blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H), simultaneously, the decrease of the electron density in the other sigma*(N-H) with elongating r(H...O) strengthens the blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H). Ranging from 2.55 to 2.85 A, the cooperative ascending tendencies of the electron densities in two sigma*(N-H) with increasing r(H...O) contribute to the decreases in blue-shift degrees of nu(N-H).

  13. Measurements of positive ion conversion and removal reactions relating to the Jovian ionosphere

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Johnsen, R.; Biondi, M. A.

    1974-01-01

    Measured rates are presented for the reaction of He(+) ions with H2 (and D2) molecules to form H(+), H2(+), and HeH(+) ions, as well as for the subsequent reactions of H(+) and HeH(+) ions with H2 to form H3(+). The neutralization of H3(+) /and H5(+)/ ions by dissociative recombination with electrons is shown to be fast. The reaction He(+) + H2 is slow (k 1.1 x 10 to the minus 13th cu cm/sec at 300 K) and produces principally H(+) by the dissociative charge transfer branch. It is concluded that there may be a serious bottleneck in the conversion of two of the primary ions of the upper Jovian ionosphere, H(+) and He(+) (which recombine slowly), to the rapidly recombining H3(+) ion.

  14. The H+n-C5H12/n-C6H14→H2(v',j')+C5H11/C6H13 reactions: State-to-state dynamics and models of energy disposal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Picconatto, Carl A.; Srivastava, Abneesh; Valentini, James J.

    2001-03-01

    The rovibrational state distributions for the H2 product of the H+n-C5H12/n-C6H14→H2+C5H11/C6H13 reactions at 1.6 eV collision energy are reported. The results are compared to measurements made on the kinematically and energetically similar H+RH→H2+R (RH=CH4, C2H6, and C3H8) reactions as well as the atom-diatom reactions H+HX→H2+X(HX=HCl, HBr). For the title reactions, as for all the comparison reactions, the product appears in few of the energetically accessible states. This is interpreted as the result of a kinematic constraint on the product translational energy. Characteristic of the H+RH reactions we have previously studied, the title reactions show increasing rotational excitation of the H2 product with increasing vibrational excitation of it, a correlation that gets stronger as the size of the alkane increases. Trends and variations in the product energy disposal are analyzed and explained by a localized reaction model. This model predicates a truncation of the opacity function due to competing reactive sites in the polyatomic alkane reactant, and a relaxation of the otherwise tight coupling of energy and angular momentum conservation, because the polyatomic alkyl radical product is a sink for angular momentum.

  15. Potential energy surfaces of LaH + and LaH + 2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Das, Kalyan K.; Balasubramanian, K.

    1991-03-01

    Using the complete active space multiconfiguration self-consistent field (CAS-MCSCF) followed by full second-order configuration interaction (SOCI) calculations, 16 electronic states of LaH+ and 8 electronic states of LaH+2 are investigated. The potential energy surface of these electronic states of LaH+2 and LaH+ are computed. These calculations show that the 3F(5d2) ground state of La+ ion forms a weak complex with H2. The La+(1D) excited state inserts into H2 with a small barrier (<8 kcal/mol) to form the 1A1 ground state of LaH+2 (re=2.057 Å, θe=106°). At the SOCI level of theory LaH+2 is found to be 11 kcal/mol more stable than La+(3F)+H2. Our calculations explain the experimental observations on La++H2→LaH++H reaction. The adiabatic ionization potential (IP) of LaH2 and LaH are calculated as 5.23 and 5.33 eV, respectively. The ground state of LaH+ was found to be a 2Δ state. We compute De(LaH+) and De(HLa-H+) as 2.54 eV in excellent agreement with the experimental De(LaH+)=2.57 eV measured by Armentrout and co-workers. The spin-orbit effects of LaH+ were also studied using the relativistic configuration interaction (RCI) method.

  16. Physical contact between human vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells modulates cytosolic and nuclear calcium homeostasis.

    PubMed

    Hassan, Ghada S; Jacques, Danielle; D'Orléans-Juste, Pedro; Magder, Sheldon; Bkaily, Ghassan

    2018-05-14

    The interaction between vascular endothelial cells (VECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays an important role in the modulation of vascular tone. There is, however, no information on whether direct physical communication regulates the intracellular calcium levels of human VECs (hVECs) and (or) human VSMCs (hVSMCs). Thus, the objective of the study is to verify whether co-culture of hVECs and hVSMCs modulates cytosolic ([Ca 2+ ] c ) and nuclear calcium ([Ca 2+ ] n ) levels via physical contact and (or) factors released by both cell types. Quantitative 3D confocal microscopy for [Ca 2+ ] c and [Ca 2+ ] n measurement was performed in cultured hVECs or hVSMCs or in co-culture of hVECs-hVSMCs. Our results show that: (1) physical contact between hVECs-hVECs or hVSMCs-hVSMCs does not affect [Ca 2+ ] c and [Ca 2+ ] n in these 2 cell types; (2) physical contact between hVECs and hVSMCs induces a significant increase only of [Ca 2+ ] n of hVECs without affecting the level of [Ca 2+ ] c and [Ca 2+ ] n of hVSMCs; and (3) preconditioned culture medium of hVECs or hVSMCs does not affect [Ca 2+ ] c and [Ca 2+ ] n of both types of cells. We concluded that physical contact between hVECs and hVSMCs only modulates [Ca 2+ ] n in hVECs. The increase of [Ca 2+ ] n in hVECs may modulate nuclear functions that are calcium dependent.

  17. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Paquette, Stéphane G.; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; Banner, David

    Pandemic H1N1 influenza A (H1N1pdm) elicits stronger pulmonary inflammation than previously circulating seasonal H1N1 influenza A (sH1N1), yet mechanisms of inflammatory activation in respiratory epithelial cells during H1N1pdm infection are unclear. We investigated host responses to H1N1pdm/sH1N1 infection and virus entry mechanisms in primary human bronchial epithelial cells in vitro. H1N1pdm infection rapidly initiated a robust inflammatory gene signature (3 h post-infection) not elicited by sH1N1 infection. Protein secretion inhibition had no effect on gene induction. Infection with membrane fusion deficient H1N1pdm failed to induce robust inflammatory gene expression which was rescued with restoration of fusion ability, suggesting H1N1pdm directlymore » triggered the inflammatory signature downstream of membrane fusion. Investigation of intra-virion components revealed H1N1pdm viral RNA (vRNA) triggered a stronger inflammatory phenotype than sH1N1 vRNA. Thus, our study is first to report H1N1pdm induces greater inflammatory gene expression than sH1N1 in vitro due to direct virus–epithelial cell interaction. - Highlights: • We investigated H1N1pdm/sH1N1 infection in primary epithelial cells. • H1N1pdm directly initiated a robust inflammatory gene signature, sH1N1 did not. • H1N1pdm viral RNA triggered a stronger response than sH1N1. • H1N1pdm induces greater response due to direct virus–cell interaction. • These results have potential to impact vaccine and therapeutic development.« less

  18. Pyrrole multimers and pyrrole-acetylene hydrogen bonded complexes studied in N2 and para-H2 matrixes using matrix isolation infrared spectroscopy and ab initio computations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sarkar, Shubhra; Ramanathan, N.; Gopi, R.; Sundararajan, K.

    2017-12-01

    Hydrogen bonded interaction of pyrrole multimer and acetylene-pyrrole complexes were studied in N2 and p-H2 matrixes. DFT computations showed T-shaped geometry for the pyrrole dimer and cyclic complex for the trimer and tetramer were the most stable structures, stabilized by Nsbnd H⋯π interactions. The experimental vibrational wavenumbers observed in N2 and p-H2 matrixes for the pyrrole multimers were correlated with the computed wavenumbers. Computations performed at MP2/aug-cc-pVDZ level of theory showed that C2H2 and C4H5N forms 1:1 hydrogen-bonded complexes stabilized by Csbnd H⋯π interaction (Complex A), Nsbnd H⋯π interaction (Complex B) and π⋯π interaction (Complex C), where the former complex is the global minimum and latter two complexes were the first and second local minima, respectively. Experimentally, 1:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes A (global minimum) and B (first local minimum) were identified from the shifts in the Nsbnd H stretching, Nsbnd H bending, Csbnd H bending region of pyrrole and Csbnd H asymmetric stretching and bending region of C2H2 in N2 and p-H2 matrixes. Computations were also performed for the higher complexes and found two minima corresponding to the 1:2 C2H2sbnd C4H5N and three minima for the 2:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes. Experimentally the global minimum 1:2 and 2:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes were identified in N2 and p-H2 matrixes.

  19. Photoinduced Reductive Elimination of H2 from the Nitrogenase Dihydride (Janus) State Involves a FeMo-cofactor-H2 Intermediate.

    PubMed

    Lukoyanov, Dmitriy; Khadka, Nimesh; Dean, Dennis R; Raugei, Simone; Seefeldt, Lance C; Hoffman, Brian M

    2017-02-20

    N 2 reduction by nitrogenase involves the accumulation of four reducing equivalents at the active site FeMo-cofactor to form a state with two [Fe-H-Fe] bridging hydrides (denoted E 4 (4H), the Janus intermediate), and we recently demonstrated that the enzyme is activated to cleave the N≡N triple bond by the reductive elimination (re) of H 2 from this state. We are exploring a photochemical approach to obtaining atomic-level details of the re activation process. We have shown that, when E 4 (4H) at cryogenic temperatures is subjected to 450 nm irradiation in an EPR cavity, it cleanly undergoes photoinduced re of H 2 to give a reactive doubly reduced intermediate, denoted E 4 (2H)*, which corresponds to the intermediate that would form if thermal dissociative re loss of H 2 preceded N 2 binding. Experiments reported here establish that photoinduced re primarily occurs in two steps. Photolysis of E 4 (4H) generates an intermediate state that undergoes subsequent photoinduced conversion to [E 4 (2H)* + H 2 ]. The experiments, supported by DFT calculations, indicate that the trapped intermediate is an H 2 complex on the ground adiabatic potential energy suface that connects E 4 (4H) with [E 4 (2H)* + H 2 ]. We suggest that this complex, denoted E 4 (H 2 ; 2H), is a thermally populated intermediate in the catalytically central re of H 2 by E 4 (4H) and that N 2 reacts with this complex to complete the activated conversion of [E 4 (4H) + N 2 ] into [E 4 (2N2H) + H 2 ].

  20. Photoinduced Reductive Elimination of H 2 from the Nitrogenase Dihydride (Janus) State Involves a FeMo-cofactor-H 2 Intermediate

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lukoyanov, Dmitriy; Khadka, Nimesh; Dean, Dennis R.

    N2 reduction by nitrogenase involves the accumulation of four reducing equivalents at the active site FeMo-cofactor to form a state with two [Fe-H-Fe] bridging hydrides (denoted E4(4H), the Janus intermediate), and we recently demonstrated that the enzyme is activated to cleave the N≡N triple bond by the reductive elimination (re) of H2 from this state. We are exploring a photochemical approach to obtaining atomic-level details of the re activation process. We have shown that when E4(4H) at cryogenic temperatures is subjected to 450 nm irradiation in an EPR cavity, it cleanly undergoes photoinduced re of H2 to give a reactivemore » doubly-reduced intermediate, denoted E4(2H)*, which corresponds to the intermediate that would form if thermal dissociative re loss of H2 preceded N2 binding. Experiments reported here establish that photoinduced re occurs in two steps. Photolysis of E4(4H) generates an intermediate state that undergoes subsequent photoinduced conversion to [E4(2H)* + H2]. The experiments, supported by DFT calculation, indicate that the trapped intermediate is an H2 complex on the ground adiabatic potential energy suface that connects E4(4H) with [E4(2H)* + H2]. We suggest this complex, denoted E4(H2; 2H), is a thermally populated intermediate in the catalytically central re of H2 by E4(4H), and that N2 reacts with this complex to complete the activated conversion of [E4(4H) + N2] into [E4(2N2H) + H2].« less

  1. Differential binding of /sup 3/H-imipramine and /sup 3/H-mianserin in rat cerebral cortex

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dumbrille-Ross, A.; Tang, S.W.; Coscina, D.V.

    1981-11-16

    Drug competition profiles, effect of raphe lesion, and sodium dependency of the binding of two antidepressant drugs /sup 3/H-imipramine and /sup 3/H-mianserin to rat cerebral cortex homogenate were compared to examine whether the drugs bound to a common ''antidepressant receptor.'' Of the neurotransmitters tested, only serotonin displaced binding of both /sup 3/H-imipramine and /sup 3/H-mianserin. /sup 3/H-Mianserin binding was potently displaced by serotonin S/sub 2/ antagonists and exhibited a profile similar to that of /sup 3/H-spiperone binding. In the presence of the serotonin S/sub 2/ antagonist spiperone, antihistamines (H/sub 1/) potently displaced /sup 3/H-mianserin binding. /sup 3/H-Imipramine binding was displacedmore » potently by serotonin uptake inhibitors. The order of potency of serotonergic drugs in displacing /sup 3/H-imipramine binding was not similar to their order in displacing /sup 3/H-spiperone or -3H-serotonin binding. Prior midbrain raphe lesions greatly decreased the binding of /sup 3/H-imipramine but did not alter binding of /sup 3/H-mianserin. Binding of /sup 3/H-imipramine but not /sup 3/H-mianserin was sodium dependent. These results show that /sup 3/H-imipramine and /sup 3/H-mianserin bind to different receptors. /sup 3/H-Imipramine binds to a presynaptic serotonin receptor which is probably related to a serotonin uptake recognition site, the binding of which is sodium dependent. /sup 3/H-Mianserin binds to postsynaptic receptors, possibly both serotonin S/sub 2/ and histamine H/sub 1/ receptors, the binding of which is sodium independent.« less

  2. Comparative pathology of pigs infected with Korean H1N1, H1N2, or H3N2 swine influenza A viruses.

    PubMed

    Lyoo, Kwang-Soo; Kim, Jeong-Ki; Jung, Kwonil; Kang, Bo-Kyu; Song, Daesub

    2014-09-24

    The predominant subtypes of swine influenza A virus (SIV) in Korea swine population are H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2. The viruses are genetically close to the classical U.S. H1N1 and triple-reassortant H1N2 and H3N2 viruses, respectively. Comparative pathogenesis caused by Korean H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2 SIV was evaluated in this study. The H3N2 infected pigs had severe scores of gross and histopathological lesions at post-inoculation days (PID) 2, and this then progressively decreased. Both the H1N1 and H1N2 infected pigs lacked gross lesions at PID 2, but they showed moderate to severe pneumonia on PID 4, 7 and 14. The pigs infected with H1N1 had significant scores of gross and histopathological lesions when compared with the other pigs infected with H1N2, H3N2, and mock at PID 14. Mean SIV antigen-positive scores were rarely detected for pigs infected with H1N2 and H3N2 from PID 7, whereas a significantly increased amount of viral antigens were found in the bronchioles and alveolar epithelium of the H1N1infected pigs at PID 14. We demonstrated that Korean SIV subtypes had different pulmonary pathologic patterns. The Korean H3N2 rapidly induced acute lung lesions such as broncho-interstitial pneumonia, while the Korean H1N1 showed longer course of infection as compared to other strains.

  3. The H2A.Z/H2B dimer is unstable compared to the dimer containing the major H2A isoform.

    PubMed

    Placek, Brandon J; Harrison, L Nicole; Villers, Brooke M; Gloss, Lisa M

    2005-02-01

    The nucleosome, the basic fundamental repeating unit of chromatin, contains two H2A/H2B dimers and an H3/H4 tetramer. Modulation of the structure and dynamics of the nucleosome is an important regulation mechanism of DNA-based chemistries in the eukaryotic cell, such as transcription and replication. One means of altering the properties of the nucleosome is by incorporation of histone variants. To provide insights into how histone variants may impact the thermodynamics of the nucleosome, the stability of the heterodimer between the H2A.Z variant and H2B was determined by urea-induced denaturation, monitored by far-UV circular dichroism, intrinsic Tyr fluorescence intensity, and anisotropy. In the absence of stabilizing agents, the H2A.Z/H2B dimer is only partially folded. The stabilizing cosolute, trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) was used to promote folding of the unstable heterodimer. The equilibrium stability of the H2A.Z/H2B dimer is compared to that of the H2A/H2B dimer. The equilibrium folding of both histone dimers is highly reversible and best described by a two-state model, with no detectable equilibrium intermediates populated. The free energies of unfolding, in the absence of denaturant, of H2A.Z/H2B and H2A/H2B are 7.3 kcal mol(-1) and 15.5 kcal mol(-1), respectively, in 1 M TMAO. The H2A.Z/H2B dimer is the least stable histone fold characterized to date, while H2A/H2B appears to be the most stable. It is speculated that this difference in stability may contribute to the different biophysical properties of nucleosomes containing the major H2A and the H2A.Z variant.

  4. Rate and extent of pH decline affect proteolysis of cytoskeletal proteins and water-holding capacity in pork.

    PubMed

    Bee, Giuseppe; Anderson, Abbey L; Lonergan, Steven M; Huff-Lonergan, Elisabeth

    2007-06-01

    The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which early postmortem (PM) pH decline influences proteolysis of the intermediate filament protein desmin, the costameric proteins vinculin and talin and autolysis of μ-calpain in the longissimus muscle (LM) of pigs from two genetic lines. Based on the LM 3h pH (H=3h pH of LM>6.0; L=3h pH of LM pH<5.7) PM, 10 carcasses per line and pH group were selected. The average 3h pH within pH group was 6.23 (H) and 5.44 (L). The LM samples were collected 24, 48, 72, and 120h PM and percent drip loss was measured after 1, 2, and 4d of storage. Samples collected at 24, 48, 72, and 120h PM were used to monitor desmin, vinculin, and talin degradation and samples collected at 24h PM were used to determine the extent of μ-calpain autolysis by immunoblotting. Higher (P<0.01) pH values at 45min, 6h, and 24h PM and lower (P<0.01) drip losses after 1, 2, and 4d of storage were recorded in the H-compared to the L-group. Abundance of the 76kDa μ-calpain autolysis product was greater (P<0.01), proteolysis of talin at all measured time points and proteolysis of desmin after 24 and 48h PM was greater (P⩽0.03) in the H-group than in the L-group. The current findings indicate activation rate of μ-calpain may be associated with proteolysis of desmin and talin and could play a role in the development of drip loss. The rate of early PM pH decline can partly explain the variation of desmin and talin degradation by affecting the activation of μ-calpain.

  5. The Extracellular Loop 2 (ECL2) of the Human Histamine H4 Receptor Substantially Contributes to Ligand Binding and Constitutive Activity

    PubMed Central

    Wifling, David; Bernhardt, Günther; Dove, Stefan; Buschauer, Armin

    2015-01-01

    In contrast to the corresponding mouse and rat orthologs, the human histamine H4 receptor (hH4R) shows extraordinarily high constitutive activity. In the extracellular loop (ECL), replacement of F169 by V as in the mouse H4R significantly reduced constitutive activity. Stabilization of the inactive state was even more pronounced for a double mutant, in which, in addition to F169V, S179 in the ligand binding site was replaced by M. To study the role of the FF motif in ECL2, we generated the hH4R-F168A mutant. The receptor was co-expressed in Sf9 insect cells with the G-protein subunits Gαi2 and Gβ1γ2, and the membranes were studied in [3H]histamine binding and functional [35S]GTPγS assays. The potency of various ligands at the hH4R-F168A mutant decreased compared to the wild-type hH4R, for example by 30- and more than 100-fold in case of the H4R agonist UR-PI376 and histamine, respectively. The high constitutive activity of the hH4R was completely lost in the hH4R-F168A mutant, as reflected by neutral antagonism of thioperamide, a full inverse agonist at the wild-type hH4R. By analogy, JNJ7777120 was a partial inverse agonist at the hH4R, but a partial agonist at the hH4R-F168A mutant, again demonstrating the decrease in constitutive activity due to F168A mutation. Thus, F168 was proven to play a key role not only in ligand binding and potency, but also in the high constitutive activity of the hH4R. PMID:25629160

  6. S-graphite slit pore: A superior selective adsorbent for light hydrocarbons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xue, Qingzhong; Li, Xiaofang; Chang, Xiao; Ling, Cuicui; Zhu, Lei; Xing, Wei

    2018-06-01

    Separation of light hydrocarbons (C1-C3) is extremely significant since these are alternative energy resources and raw materials in the industrial process. In this work, we have examined the performance of S-graphite slit pore in selective separation of CH4 over C2H2, C2H4, C2H6, C3H6 and C3H8 using Grand Canonical Monte Carlo calculations. Generally, its C3/C1 selectivity is higher than C2/C1 selectivity. Exactly, at 300 K and 1 bar, the selectivity is around 13, 17 and 18 for CH4/C2H2, CH4/C2H4 and CH4/C2H6 while it is about 63 and 70 for CH4/C3H6 and CH4/C3H8, respectively. Importantly, we have found that the optimum pore size is 0.65 nm for CH4/C2H2 and CH4/C2H4, 0.75 nm for CH4/C2H6, which is smaller than that (1.0 nm) for CH4/C3H6 and CH4/C3H8. Besides, density functional theory calculations demonstrate the remarkable selective separation of CH4 over C2H2, C2H4, C2H6, C3H6 and C3H8 of S-graphite slit pore is attributed to its stronger interactions with C2H2, C2H4, C2H6, C3H6 and C3H8 molecule than CH4 molecule due to the larger polarizability of C2 and C3 molecules, which also manifests that S-graphite slit pore is an extremely promising candidate for separating light hydrocarbons.

  7. Specific IgE to peanut 2S albumin Ara h 7 has a discriminative ability comparable to Ara h 2 and 6.

    PubMed

    Blankestijn, M A; Otten, H G; Suer, W; Weimann, A; Knol, E F; Knulst, A C

    2018-01-01

    Little is known on the clinical relevance of peanut 2S albumin Ara h 7. To investigate the discriminative ability of Ara h 7 in peanut allergy and assess the role of cross-reactivity between Ara h 2, 6 and Ara h 7 isoforms. Sensitization to recombinant peanut storage proteins Ara h 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7 was assessed using a line blot in sera from 40 peanut-tolerant and 40 peanut-allergic patients, based on food challenge outcome. A dose-dependent ELISA inhibition experiment was performed with recombinant Ara h 2, 6 and Ara h 7 isoforms. For Ara h 7.0201, an area under the ROC curve was found of 0.83, comparable to Ara h 2 (AUC 0.81) and Ara h 6 (AUC 0.85). Ara h 7 intensity values strongly correlated with those from Ara h 2 and 6 (r s = 0.81). Of all patients sensitized to 2S albumins Ara h 2, 6, or 7, the majority was co-sensitized to all three (n = 24, 68%), although mono-sensitization to either 2S albumin was also observed in selected patients (Ara h 2: n = 6, 17%; Ara h 6: n = 2, 6%; Ara h 7: n = 2, 6%). Binding to Ara h 7.0101 could be strongly inhibited by Ara h 7.0201, but not the other way around. Specific IgE against Ara h 7.0201 has a predictive ability for peanut allergy similar to Ara h 2 and 6 and possesses unique IgE epitopes as well as epitopes shared between the other Ara h 7 isoform and Ara h 2 and 6. While co-sensitization to all three 2S albumins is most common, mono-sensitization to either Ara h 2, 6, or 7 occurs in selected patients, leading to a risk of misdiagnosis when testing for a single 2S albumin. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Light curve Analysis of 8 Asteroids from Leura and Other Collaborating Observatories

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oey, Julian; Vilagi, J.; Gajdos, S.; Kornos, L.; Galad, A.

    2007-09-01

    The synodic periods for several asteroids were obtained during the second half of 2006: 1301 Yvonne, 7.3200 h; 1241 Dysona, 8.6080 h; 2910 Yoshkar-Ola, 3.4233 h, 3105 Stumpff, 5.0369 h; 3258 Somnium, 5.3379 h; 3850 Peltier, 2.4289 h; (6263) 1980 PX, 3.464 h; 3665 Fitzgerald, 2.4142 h; 12696 Camus, 3.78 h.

  9. Novel DNA variants and mutation frequencies of hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes in colorectal cancer in the Northeast China population.

    PubMed

    Hu, Fulan; Li, Dandan; Wang, Yibaina; Yao, Xiaoping; Zhang, Wencui; Liang, Jing; Lin, Chunqing; Ren, Jiaojiao; Zhu, Lin; Wu, Zhiwei; Li, Shuying; Li, Ye; Zhao, Xiaojuan; Cui, Binbin; Dong, Xinshu; Tian, Suli; Zhao, Yashuang

    2013-01-01

    Research on hMLH1 and hMSH2 mutations tend to focus on Lynch syndrome (LS) and LS-like colorectal cancer (CRC). No studies to date have assessed the role of hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes in mass sporadic CRC (without preselection by MSI or early age of onset). We aimed to identify novel hMLH1 and hMSH2 DNA variants, to determine the mutation frequencies and sites in both sporadic and LS CRC and their relationships with clinicopathological characteristics of CRC in Northeast of China. 452 sporadic and 21 LS CRC patients were screened for germline and somatic mutations in hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes with PCR-SSCP sequencing. We identified 11 hMLH1 and seven hMSH2 DNA variants in our study cohort. Six of them were novel: four in hMLH1 gene (IVS8-16 A>T, c.644 GAT>GTT, c.1529 CAG>CGG and c.1831 ATT>TTT) and two in hMSH2 gene (-39 C>T, insertion AACAACA at c.1127 and deletion AAG at c.1129). In sporadic CRC, germline and somatic mutation frequencies of hMLH1/hMSH2 gene were 15.59% and 17.54%, respectively (p = 0.52). Germline mutations present in hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes were 5.28% and 10.78%, respectively (p<0.01). Somatic mutations in hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes were 6.73% and 11.70%, respectively (p = 0.02). In LS CRC, both germline and somatic mutation frequencies of hMLH1/hMSH2 gene were 28.57%. The most prevalent germline mutation site in hMSH2 gene was c.1168 CTT>TTT (3.90%), a polymorphism. Somatic mutation frequency of hMLH1/hMSH2 gene was significantly different in proximal, distal colon and rectal cancer (p = 0.03). Our findings elucidate the mutation spectrum and frequency of hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes in sporadic and LS CRC, and their relationships with clinicopathological characteristics of CRC.

  10. Hydraenidae of Madagascar (Insecta: Coleoptera).

    PubMed

    Perkins, Philip D

    2017-11-03

    The Madagascar fauna of the beetle family Hydraenidae is comprehensively revised, based on the study and databasing of 6,949 specimens. New collection records are provided for 11 previously described species, and 95 new species are described. Three new subgenera of Hydraena, viz. H. (Micromadraena), H. (Monomadraena), and H. (Dnahydnaedna) are described, and several new species groups of Hydraena are diagnosed. Two new genera in the tribe Madagastrini are described: Menomadraena and Trinomadraena. The Malagasy hydraenid fauna now comprises 106 species arrayed in the following nine genera: Aulacochthebius (2), Hydraena (65), Limnebius (10), Madagaster (8), Menomadraena (6), Ochthebius (1), Protozantaena (5), Sicilicula (8), and Trinomadraena (1). Lectotypes are designated for the following species: Aulacochthebius plicicollis (Fairmaire), 1898 (Ochthebius); Hydraena dilutipes Fairmaire, 1898; Hydraena impressicollis Fairmaire, 1898; Hydraena marginicollis Regimbart, 1903 (= Hydraena regimbarti Zaitzev 1908; nomen novum); and Ochthebius alluaudi Regimbart, 1903. Hydraena discicollis Fairmaire, 1898, is considered a nomen dubium: no type specimens were found, and the description appears to be that of a species of Aulacochthebius or Ochthebius, not Hydraena. High resolution digital images of lectotypes and holotypes of new species are presented (online versions in color). Male genitalia, representative antennae, maxillary palpi, and female terminal abdominal segments and spermathecae are illustrated. Geographic distributions of all species are mapped. Possible colonization and vicariance events are discussed at the tribal, generic and species group levels. The tribe Madagastrini, found only in Madagascar and southern India, is hygropetric, indicating that this microhabitat type has been continuously present in both Madagascar and India at least since the two separated, currently estimated to be 88 million years ago. Contrastingly, some lowland lentic species of other genera appear to be closely related to species in southern Africa, suggesting rather recent colonization events. New species of Aulacochthebius: A. perlaevis (Mahajanga, Boeny: Mahavavy Kinkony RS). New species of Hydraena (Micromadraena): H. breviceps (Fianarantsoa, 29 km SSW Ambositra, Ankazomivady); H. fortipes (Antsiranana, Forêt d' Antsahabe); H. genuvela (Antsiranana, Forêt de Binara); H. parvipalpis (Antananarivo, Réserve Spéciale d'Ambohitantely); H. rubridentata ((Mahajanga, Parc National de Namoroka); H. serripennis (Antsiranana, Forêt d' Antsahabe). New species of Hydraena (Monomadraena): H. acicula (Antsiranana, Antsaba, Galoko Mountains); H. ambohitantely (Antananarivo, Ambohitantely Spec. Res.); H. amplexa (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP); H. amplipunctata (Fianarantsoa, 7 km W Ranomafana); H. antsahabe (Antsiranana, Forêt d' Antsahabe); H. bergsteni (Antsiranana, Diana: Beraty); H. bisinuata (Toamasina, Tamatave 6.3 km S Ambanizona); H. bisinuloba (Toliara, Menabe: Kirindy RS.); H. bispica (Toamasina, Alaotra Mangoro: Analamazoatra SR); H. casacolumna (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP); H. compacta (Antananarivo, Ankaratra, Reserve Manjakatompo); H. contracolorata (Antsiranana, Montagne des Francais); H. epipleurata (Antsiranana, Forêt de Binara); H. furcula (Toliara, 40km N of Fort Dauphin, Managotry); H. gereckei (Antananarivo, Ankaratra, Reserve Manjakatompo); H. goldschmidti (Antananarivo, Anjozorobe, Ravoandrina); H. inseriata (Antananarivo, Anjozorobe, Ravoandrina); H. jubata (Antsiranana, Sava Marojejy NP); H. levifurcata (Fianarantsoa, Namarona River, 7 km SW Ranomafana); H. lubrica (Antananarivo, Ambohitantely Spec. Res.); H. mahavavona (Fianarantsoa, Ionilahy, Mahavavona); H. manjakatompo (Antananarivo, Ankaratra, Reserve Manjakatompo); H. marojejy (Antsiranana, Parc National de Marojejy); H. multiarcuata (Fianarantsoa, Ranomafana); H. oscillata (Toamasina, Alaotra Mangoro Andasibe-Mantadia NP); H. parvispinosa (Toamasina, Andasibe NP); H. pentarubra (Antsiranana, Montagne d'Ambre); H. quatriloba (Toliara, Andohahela NP, Tsimelahy); H. ranomafana (Fianarantsoa, Ranomafana); H. ravoandrina (Antananarivo, Anjozorobe, Ravoandrina); H. rubrifurcata (Antsiranana, Sava, Marojejy NP); H. sculponea (Antsiranana, Befingotra (9.2 km WSW), Res. Anjanaharibe-Sud); H. simplicata (Antsiranana, Montagne d'Ambre); H. tibiodentipes (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP); H. triaequalis (Fianarantsoa, Ranohira); H. tripartita (Fianarantsoa, Ranomena); H. upsilonica (Toamasina, Zahamena NP); New species of Hydraena (Hydraenopsis): H. andranomena (Toliara, Andranomena); H. arta (Antsiranana, Parc National de Marojejy); H. bucollis (Toamasina, Tamatave, Andranobe Field Station); H. clavulata (Fianarantsoa, Ranomafana); H. contorta (Antananarivo, Anjozorobe forest reserve); H. dilutipoides (Mahajanga, Parc National Tsingy de Bemaraha); H. divisa (Antsiranana, Antsaba,Galoko Mountains); H. elementaria (Antananarivo, Tamatave, Coastal lagoon); H. fulgidicollis (Antananarivo, Parc de Tsimbazaza); H. longiloba (Fianarantsoa, Madiorano); H. nanula (Antsiranana, Ankarana, Ampositelo); H. orchisa (Toamasina, Alaotra Mangoro Andasibe-Mantadia NP); H. pilobova (Antsiranana, Sava, Marojejy NP); H. pilotumida (Fianarantsoa, 7 km W Ranomafana); H. ranarilalatiani (Toamasina, Alaotra Mangoro: Analamazoatra SR); H. randriamihajai (Antsiranana, Diana: Montagne d'Ambre NP); H. renalisa (Antsiranana, Sambava: Marojejy NP); H. sinuatipes (Antsiranana, Ankarana); H. torquata (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP). New species of Limnebius: L. angulatus (Fianarantsoa, Namarona River, 7 km W Ranomafana); L. balkei (Antsiranana, Montagne d'Ambre); L. bergsteni (Fianarantsoa, Namarona River, 7 km W Ranomafana); L. clandestinus (Mahajanga, Boeny:Mahavavy Kinkony RSc); L. labratus (Toamasina, Maroantsetra); L. lacrimosus (Toamasina, 18.7911S 48.4259E Alaotra Mangoro Andasibe-Mantadia NP); L. lobatus (Toliara, Manakaravavy); L. maximadus (Toamasina, Alaotra Mangoro: Analamazoatra SR); L. nanostillus (Antsiranana, Ankarana); L. steineri (Fianarantsoa, 7 km W Ranomafana). New species of Madagaster: M. barbata (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP); M. bergsteni (Antananarivo, 18.8704S 47.6708E Analamanga); M. cataracta (Antsiranana, Sava, Marojejy NP); M. procarina (Fianarantsoa, 32 km S Ambositra); M. quadricurvipes (Fianarantsoa, Andringitra NP); M. simplissima (Fianarantsoa, 32 km S Ambositra). New species of Menomadraena: M. andringitra (Fianarantsoa, Res. Andringitra); M. concava (Fianarantsoa, R.S. Ivohibe); M. fisheri (Toliara, Enakara (11 km NW), Res. Andohahela); M. ivohibe (Fianarantsoa, R.S. Ivohibe); M. nitedula (Fianarantsoa, Res. Andringitra); M. sembella (Fianarantsoa, Amparihibe). New species of Protozantaena: P. duplicata (Antananarivo, Vakinankaratra: Manjakatompo Stn. Forestière); P. elongata (Antananarivo, Vakinankaratra: Manjakatompo Stn. Forestière). New species of Sicilicula: S. ampla (Antananarivo, Onive River near Ilempona); S. bergsteni (Fianarantsoa, 21.2263S 47.3694E, Matsiara Ambony, Ranomafana NP); S. conjugalis (Fianarantsoa, Namarona River, 7 km SW Ranomafana); S. cordicollis (Fianarantsoa, Namarona River, 7 km SW Ranomafana); S. hygropetrica (Fianarantsoa, Matsiara Ambony, Ranomafana NP); S. malagasica (Fianarantsoa, Abohimahasoa); S. sexplanata (Antsiranana, Mt. Tsaratanana). New species of Trinomadraena: T. clusa (Antsiranana, Mt. d'Ambre).

  11. Preparation of Novel Hydrolyzing Urethane Modified Thiol-Ene Networks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-10-25

    EtO EtO EtO Si EtO OEt OEt O OEt Si OEt OEt OEt HO HOEt H H O H H H Si OEt EtO EtO ... EtO H H SiO H H OEt OEt OEt H Polymers 2011, 3 1851 Thiol-ene “click” chemistry, as a means to form polymer networks...Table 3. Analysis of kinetic rates for fluorine modified systems. Sample name a Zero order k r2 First order k r2 Higuchi KH r2

  12. Pathogenicity and Transmission in Pigs of the Novel A(H3N2)v Influenza Virus Isolated from Humans and Characterization of Swine H3N2 Viruses Isolated in 2010-2011

    PubMed Central

    Kitikoon, Pravina; Gauger, Phillip C.; Schlink, Sarah N.; Bayles, Darrell O.; Gramer, Marie R.; Darnell, Daniel; Webby, Richard J.; Lager, Kelly M.; Swenson, Sabrina L.; Klimov, Alexander

    2012-01-01

    Swine influenza virus (SIV) H3N2 with triple reassorted internal genes (TRIG) has been enzootic in Unites States since 1998. Transmission of the 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) virus to pigs in the United States was followed by reassortment with endemic SIV, resulting in reassorted viruses that include novel H3N2 genotypes (rH3N2p). Between July and December 2011, 12 cases of human infections with swine-lineage H3N2 viruses containing the pandemic matrix (pM) gene [A(H3N2)v] were detected. Whole-genome analysis of H3N2 viruses isolated from pigs from 2009 to 2011 sequenced in this study and other available H3N2 sequences showed six different rH3N2p genotypes present in the U.S. swine population since 2009. The presence of the pM gene was a common feature among all rH3N2p genotypes, but no specific genotype appeared to predominate in the swine population. We compared the pathogenic, transmission, genetic, and antigenic properties of a human A(H3N2)v isolate and two swine H3N2 isolates, H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p. Our in vivo study detected no increased virulence in A(H3N2)v or rH3N2p viruses compared to endemic H3N2-TRIG virus. Antibodies to cluster IV H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p viruses had reduced cross-reactivity to A(H3N2)v compared to other cluster IV H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p viruses. Genetic analysis of the hemagglutinin gene indicated that although rH3N2p and A(H3N2)v are related to cluster IV of H3N2-TRIG, some recent rH3N2p isolates appeared to be forming a separate cluster along with the human isolates of A(H3N2)v. Continued monitoring of these H3N2 viruses is necessary to evaluate the evolution and potential loss of population immunity in swine and humans. PMID:22491461

  13. Pathogenicity and transmission in pigs of the novel A(H3N2)v influenza virus isolated from humans and characterization of swine H3N2 viruses isolated in 2010-2011.

    PubMed

    Kitikoon, Pravina; Vincent, Amy L; Gauger, Phillip C; Schlink, Sarah N; Bayles, Darrell O; Gramer, Marie R; Darnell, Daniel; Webby, Richard J; Lager, Kelly M; Swenson, Sabrina L; Klimov, Alexander

    2012-06-01

    Swine influenza virus (SIV) H3N2 with triple reassorted internal genes (TRIG) has been enzootic in Unites States since 1998. Transmission of the 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) virus to pigs in the United States was followed by reassortment with endemic SIV, resulting in reassorted viruses that include novel H3N2 genotypes (rH3N2p). Between July and December 2011, 12 cases of human infections with swine-lineage H3N2 viruses containing the pandemic matrix (pM) gene [A(H3N2)v] were detected. Whole-genome analysis of H3N2 viruses isolated from pigs from 2009 to 2011 sequenced in this study and other available H3N2 sequences showed six different rH3N2p genotypes present in the U.S. swine population since 2009. The presence of the pM gene was a common feature among all rH3N2p genotypes, but no specific genotype appeared to predominate in the swine population. We compared the pathogenic, transmission, genetic, and antigenic properties of a human A(H3N2)v isolate and two swine H3N2 isolates, H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p. Our in vivo study detected no increased virulence in A(H3N2)v or rH3N2p viruses compared to endemic H3N2-TRIG virus. Antibodies to cluster IV H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p viruses had reduced cross-reactivity to A(H3N2)v compared to other cluster IV H3N2-TRIG and rH3N2p viruses. Genetic analysis of the hemagglutinin gene indicated that although rH3N2p and A(H3N2)v are related to cluster IV of H3N2-TRIG, some recent rH3N2p isolates appeared to be forming a separate cluster along with the human isolates of A(H3N2)v. Continued monitoring of these H3N2 viruses is necessary to evaluate the evolution and potential loss of population immunity in swine and humans.

  14. The effect of split sleep schedules (6h-on/6h-off) on neurobehavioural performance, sleep and sleepiness.

    PubMed

    Short, Michelle A; Centofanti, Stephanie; Hilditch, Cassie; Banks, Siobhan; Lushington, Kurt; Dorrian, Jillian

    2016-05-01

    Shorter, more frequent rosters, such as 6h-on/6h-off split shifts, may offer promise to sleep, subjective sleepiness and performance by limiting shift length and by offering opportunities for all workers to obtain some sleep across the biological night. However, there exists a paucity of studies that have examined these shifts using objective measures of sleep and performance. The present study examined neurobehavioural performance, sleepiness and sleep during 6h-on/6h-off split sleep schedules. Sixteen healthy adults (6 males, 26.13 y ± 4.46) participated in a 9-day laboratory study that included two baseline nights (BL, 10h time in bed (TIB), 2200 h-0800 h), 4 days on one of two types of 6h-on/6h-off split sleep schedules with 5h TIB during each 'off' period (6h early: TIB 0300 h-0800 h and 1500 h-20000 h, or 6-h late: TIB 0900 h-1400 h and 2100 h-0200 h), and two recovery nights (10h TIB per night, 2200 h-0800 h). Participants received 10h TIB per 24h in total across both shift schedules. A neurobehavioural test bout was completed every 2 h during wake, which included the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS). Linear mixed effects models were used to assess the effect of day (BL, shift days 1-4), schedule (6h early, 6h late) and trial (numbers 1-6) on PVT lapses (operationalised as the number of reaction times >500 ms), PVT total lapse time, PVT fastest 10% of reaction times and KSS. Analyses were also conducted examining the effect of day and schedule on sleep variables. Overall, PVT lapses and total lapse time did not differ significantly between baseline and shift days, however, peak response speeds were significantly slower on the first shift day when compared to baseline, but only for those in the 6h-late condition. Circadian variations were apparent in performance outcomes, with individuals in the 6h-late condition demonstrated significantly more and longer lapses and slower peak reaction times at the end of their night shift (0730 h) than at any other time during their shifts. In the 6h-early condition, only response speed significantly differed across trials, with slower response speeds occurring at trial 1 (0930 h) than in trials 3 (1330 h) or 4 (2130 h). While subjective sleepiness was higher on shift days than at baseline, sleepiness did not accumulate across days. Total sleep was reduced across split sleep schedules compared to baseline. Overall, these results show that while there was not a cumulative cost to performance across days of splitting sleep, participants obtained less sleep and reported lowered alertness on shift days. Tests near the circadian nadir showed higher sleepiness and increased performance deficits. While this schedule did not produce cumulative impairment, the performance deficits witnessed during the biological night are still of operational concern for industry and workers alike. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Vaccine Efficacy of Inactivated, Chimeric Hemagglutinin H9/H5N2 Avian Influenza Virus and Its Suitability for the Marker Vaccine Strategy

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Se Mi; Kim, Young-Il; Park, Su-Jin; Kim, Eun-Ha; Kwon, Hyeok-il; Si, Young-Jae; Lee, In-Won; Song, Min-Suk

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT In order to produce a dually effective vaccine against H9 and H5 avian influenza viruses that aligns with the DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) strategy, we generated a chimeric H9/H5N2 recombinant vaccine that expressed the whole HA1 region of A/CK/Korea/04163/04 (H9N2) and the HA2 region of recent highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A/MD/Korea/W452/14 (H5N8) viruses. The chimeric H9/H5N2 virus showed in vitro and in vivo growth properties and virulence that were similar to those of the low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) H9 virus. An inactivated vaccine based on this chimeric virus induced serum neutralizing (SN) antibodies against both H9 and H5 viruses but induced cross-reactive hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody only against H9 viruses. Thus, this suggests its compatibility for use in the DIVA strategy against H5 strains. Furthermore, the chimeric H9/H5N2 recombinant vaccine protected immunized chickens against lethal challenge by HPAI H5N8 viruses and significantly attenuated virus shedding after infection by both H9N2 and HPAI H5N8 viruses. In mice, serological analyses confirmed that HA1- and HA2 stalk-specific antibody responses were induced by vaccination and that the DIVA principle could be employed through the use of an HI assay against H5 viruses. Furthermore, each HA1- and HA2 stalk-specific antibody response was sufficient to inhibit viral replication and protect the chimeric virus-immunized mice from lethal challenge with both mouse-adapted H9N2 and wild-type HPAI H5N1 viruses, although differences in vaccine efficacy against a homologous H9 virus (HA1 head domain immune-mediated protection) and a heterosubtypic H5 virus (HA2 stalk domain immune-mediated protection) were observed. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the novel chimeric H9/H5N2 recombinant virus is a low-pathogenic virus, and this chimeric vaccine is suitable for a DIVA vaccine with broad-spectrum neutralizing antibody against H5 avian influenza viruses. IMPORTANCE Current influenza virus killed vaccines predominantly induce antihemagglutinin (anti-HA) antibodies that are commonly strain specific in that the antibodies have potent neutralizing activity against homologous strains but do not cross-react with HAs of other influenza virus subtypes. In contrast, the HA2 stalk domain is relatively well conserved among subtypes, and recently, broadly neutralizing antibodies against this domain have been isolated. Therefore, in light of the need for a vaccine strain that applies the DIVA strategy utilizing an HI assay and induces broad cross-protection against H5N1 and H9N2 viruses, we generated a novel chimeric H9/H5N1 virus that expresses the entire HA1 portion from the H9N2 virus and the HA2 region of the heterosubtypic H5N8 virus. The chimeric H9/H5N2 recombinant vaccine protected immunized hosts against lethal challenge with H9N2 and HPAI H5N1 viruses with significantly attenuated virus shedding in immunized hosts. Therefore, this chimeric vaccine is suitable as a DIVA vaccine against H5 avian influenza viruses. PMID:28077631

  16. Lightcurve Analysis of Asteroids from the Kingsgrove and Leura Observatories in the 2nd Half of 2007

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oey, Julian

    2008-09-01

    Fourteen asteroids were observed from Kingsgrove and Leura Observatories during the second half of 2007. The synodic periods derived were: 226 Weringia, 11.240 ± 0.002 h; 294 Felicia, 10.4227 ± 0.0007 h; 677 Aaltje, 11.056 ± 0.003 h; 1099 Figneria, 13.577 ± 0.001 h; 1240 Centenaria, 11.2907 ± 0.0007 h; 1251 Hedera, 19.9000 ± 0.0002 h; 1432 Ethiopia, 9.8458 ± 0.0003 h; 1607 Mavis, 6.1508 ± 0.0005 h; 2378 Pannekoek, 11.8806 ± 0.0008 h; 4755 Nicky, 5.057 ± 0.002 h; (11780) 1940 TB, 295 ± 10 h; (30220) 2000 GP126, 3.3670 ± 0.0003 h: (41223) 1999 XD16, 32.52 ± 0.02 h; (143243) 2002 YA26, 7.688 ± 0.003 h;

  17. Flower color changes in three Japanese hibiscus species: further quantitative variation of anthocyanin and flavonols.

    PubMed

    Shimokawa, Satoshi; Iwashina, Tsukasa; Murakami, Noriaki

    2015-03-01

    One anthocyanin and four flavonols were detected from the petals of Hibiscus hamabo, H. tiliaceus and H. glaber. They were identified as cyanidin 3-0- sambubioside, gossypetin 3-O-glucuronide-8-O-glucoside, quercetin 7-O-rutinoside, gossypetin 3-O-glucoside and gossypetin 8-O-glucuronide by UV spectra, LC-MS, acid hydrolysis and HPLC. The flavonoid composition was essentially the same among the petals ofH. hamabo, H. tiliaceus and H. glaber, and there was little quantitative variation, except for cyanidin 3-O-sambubioside, the content of which in the petals ofH. tiliaceus and H. glaber was much higher than in that of H. hamabo. Flower colors of H. tiliaceus and H. glaber change from yellow to red, and that of H. hamabo changes from yellow to orange. These changes were caused by contents of anthocyanin and flavonols, which increased after flowering of H. hamabo, H. tiliaceus and H. glaber.

  18. Entanglement witness criteria of strong- k-separability for multipartite quantum states

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Siqing; Hou, Jinchuan

    2018-07-01

    Let H1, H2,\\ldots ,Hn be separable complex Hilbert spaces with \\dim Hi≥ 2 and n≥ 2. Assume that ρ is a state in H=H_1⊗ H_2⊗ \\cdots ⊗ H_n. ρ is called strong- k-separable (2≤ k≤ n) if ρ is separable for any k-partite division of H. In this paper, an entanglement witnesses criterion of strong- k-separability is obtained, which says that ρ is not strong- k-separable if and only if there exist a k-division space H_{m1}⊗ \\cdots ⊗ H_{mk} of H, a finite-rank linear elementary operator positive on product states Λ: B(H_{m2}⊗ \\cdots ⊗ H_{mk})→ B(H_{m1}) and a state ρ 0\\in S(H_{m1}⊗ H_{m1}), such that Tr(Wρ )<0, where W=(Id⊗ Λ ^{\\dagger })ρ 0 is an entanglement witness. In addition, several different methods of constructing entanglement witnesses for multipartite states are also given.

  19. On the genus Hermippus Simon, 1893 (Araneae: Zodariidae, Zodariinae) in India with the description of three new species from the Western Ghats and proposing a new biogeographical hypothesis for the distribution of the genus.

    PubMed

    Sankaran, Pradeep M; Jobi, Malamel J; Joseph, Mathew M; Sebastian, Pothalil A

    2014-12-05

    Three new species of the ant-eating spider genus Hermippus Simon, 1893, H. globosus sp. nov., H. inflexus sp. nov. and H. gavi sp. nov. are described and illustrated from the Western Ghats in the Kerala region of southern India. The genus is redefined and two species groups are recognized: the cruciatus-group with all the five described Oriental species including H. cruciatus Simon, 1905, H. arjuna Gravely, 1921, H. inflexus sp. nov., H. globosus sp. nov. and H. gavi sp. nov. and the loricatus-group representing all the seven described Afrotropical species including H. loricatus Simon, 1893, H. affinis Strand, 1906, H. schoutedeni Lessert, 1938, H. septemguttatus Lawrence, 1942, H. minutus Jocqué, 1986, H. tenebrosus Jocqué, 1986 and H. arcus Jocqué, 1989. The biogeographic distribution and possible migratory route of Hermippus spp. from Africa to the Oriental region are given.

  20. Absolute detection efficiencies of low energy H, H -, H +, H 2+ and H 3+ incident on a multichannel plate detector

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peko, B. L.; Stephen, T. M.

    2000-12-01

    Measured absolute detection efficiencies are presented for H, H - and H n+ ( n=1,2,3) impacting a commercially available, dual multichannel plate (MCP) electron multiplier at kinetic energies ranging from 30 to 1000 eV. Measurements involving isotopic substitutions (D, D -, D n+) and Ar + are also presented. In addition, atomic hydrogen detection efficiencies relative to those of H + and H - are given, as they may have a more universal application. For the three charge states, H, H + and H -, the absolute detection efficiencies are markedly different at low energies and converge to a nearly uniform value of ˜70% with increasing projectile energy. The energy dependence is strongest for H +, varying nearly three orders of magnitude over the energy range studied, and weakest for H -, varying by less than one order of magnitude. In general, for the low energy positive ions at a given energy, the lighter the incident particle mass, the greater the probability of its detection.

  1. All roads lead to chromatin: multiple pathways for histone deposition.

    PubMed

    Li, Qing; Burgess, Rebecca; Zhang, Zhiguo

    2013-01-01

    Chromatin, a complex of DNA and associated proteins, governs diverse processes including gene transcription, DNA replication and DNA repair. The fundamental unit of chromatin is the nucleosome, consisting of 147 bp of DNA wound about 1.6 turns around a histone octamer of one (H3-H4)2 tetramer and two H2A-H2B dimers. In order to form nucleosomes, (H3-H4)2 tetramers are deposited first, followed by the rapid deposition of H2A-H2B. It is believed that the assembly of (H3-H4)2 tetramers into nucleosomes is the rate-limiting step of nucleosome assembly. Moreover, assembly of H3-H4 into nucleosomes following DNA replication, DNA repair and gene transcription is likely to be a key step in the inheritance of epigenetic information and maintenance of genome integrity. In this review, we discuss how nucleosome assembly of H3-H4 is regulated by concerted actions of histone chaperones and modifications on newly synthesized H3 and H4. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Histone chaperones and Chromatin assembly.

  2. Structural Basis for the Histone Chaperone Activity of Asf1

    PubMed Central

    English, Christine M.; Adkins, Melissa W.; Carson, Joshua J.; Churchill, Mair E.A.; Tyler, Jessica K.

    2010-01-01

    SUMMARY Asf1 is a highly conserved chaperone of histones H3/H4 that assembles or disassembles chromatin during transcription, replication, and repair. The structure of the globular domain of Asf1 bound to H3/H4 determined by X-ray crystallography to a resolution of 1.7 Å shows how Asf1 binds the H3/H4 heterodimer, enveloping the C-terminus of histone H3 and physically blocking formation of the H3/H4 heterotetramer. Unexpectedly, the C-terminus of histone H4 that forms a mini-beta sheet with histone H2A in the nucleosome, undergoes a major conformational change upon binding to Asf1 and adds a beta strand to the Asf1 beta-sheet sandwich. Interactions with both H3 and H4 were required for Asf1 histone chaperone function in vivo and in vitro. The Asf1-H3/H4 structure suggests a “strand-capture” mechanism whereby the H4 tail acts as a lever to facilitate chromatin disassembly / assembly that may be used ubiquitously by histone chaperones. PMID:17081973

  3. Prime Contract Awards Alphabetically by Contractor, by State or Country, and Place, Fiscal Year 1985. Part 1. IDSCR Inc. - Amjet Aerospace Inc).

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-01-01

    Hioinu)H M H in in co co co C* HH -H*H H •-OOOO O 0«H—<W*H H » JB HCMCMCMCMHCMCM H « a CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM...OK- JB (/lb0b0C/>b0C/IO cor^Pic or to £«00-1 »f^CMP»^00PlO-JZ J:«CM_I « CM CM CO « 0O _l z CO—1—1—1—1—«—l_J UMO-JZ •o-O »--^PO 3 CM-H CM CM CM CM...QHH CM • HH CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CO CM CM OHO H CM CM CM « m ^^ CO CO CO CO « « CM m o o> f~ HH H H H r^rv NNNN -4 f- H H o CO CD H P1HH

  4. Superconductivity of novel tin hydrides (Sn(n)H(m)) under pressure.

    PubMed

    Mahdi Davari Esfahani, M; Wang, Zhenhai; Oganov, Artem R; Dong, Huafeng; Zhu, Qiang; Wang, Shengnan; Rakitin, Maksim S; Zhou, Xiang-Feng

    2016-03-11

    With the motivation of discovering high-temperature superconductors, evolutionary algorithm USPEX is employed to search for all stable compounds in the Sn-H system. In addition to the traditional SnH4, new hydrides SnH8, SnH12 and SnH14 are found to be thermodynamically stable at high pressure. Dynamical stability and superconductivity of tin hydrides are systematically investigated. I4m2-SnH8, C2/m-SnH12 and C2/m-SnH14 exhibit higher superconducting transition temperatures of 81, 93 and 97 K compared to the traditional compound SnH4 with Tc of 52 K at 200 GPa. An interesting bent H3-group in I4m2-SnH8 and novel linear H in C2/m-SnH12 are observed. All the new tin hydrides remain metallic over their predicted range of stability. The intermediate-frequency wagging and bending vibrations have more contribution to electron-phonon coupling parameter than high-frequency stretching vibrations of H2 and H3.

  5. Interference of transcription across H-NS binding sites and repression by H-NS.

    PubMed

    Rangarajan, Aathmaja Anandhi; Schnetz, Karin

    2018-05-01

    Nucleoid-associated protein H-NS represses transcription by forming extended DNA-H-NS complexes. Repression by H-NS operates mostly at the level of transcription initiation. Less is known about how DNA-H-NS complexes interfere with transcription elongation. In vitro H-NS has been shown to enhance RNA polymerase pausing and to promote Rho-dependent termination, while in vivo inhibition of Rho resulted in a decrease of the genome occupancy by H-NS. Here we show that transcription directed across H-NS binding regions relieves H-NS (and H-NS/StpA) mediated repression of promoters in these regions. Further, we observed a correlation of transcription across the H-NS-bound region and de-repression. The data suggest that the transcribing RNA polymerase is able to remodel the H-NS complex and/or dislodge H-NS from the DNA and thus relieve repression. Such an interference of transcription and H-NS mediated repression may imply that poorly transcribed AT-rich loci are prone to be repressed by H-NS, while efficiently transcribed loci escape repression. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  6. The effect of host relaxation and dynamics on guest molecule dynamics in H2/tetrahydrofuranhydrate.

    PubMed

    Peterson, Vanessa K; Shoko, Elvis; Kearley, Gordon J

    2011-01-01

    We use ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to obtain classically the effects of H2O cage motions on the potential-energy surface (PES) of encapsulated H2 in the H2/tetrahydrofuran-hydrate system. The significant differences between the PES for the H2 in rigid and flexible cages that we find will influence calculation of the quantum dynamics of the H2. Part of these differences arises from the relaxation of the H2O cage around the classical H2, with a second part arising from the coupling of both translational and rotational motions of H2 with the H20 cage. We find that isotopic substitution of 2H for 1H of the H2O cage affects the coupling, which has implications for experiments that require the use of 2H2O, including inelastic neutron scattering that uses 2H2O cages in order to focus on the H2 guest dynamics. Overall, this work emphasizes the importance of taking into account cage dynamics in any approach used to understand the dynamics of H2 guests in porous framework materials.

  7. Histone H3.3 sub-variant H3mm7 is required for normal skeletal muscle regeneration.

    PubMed

    Harada, Akihito; Maehara, Kazumitsu; Ono, Yusuke; Taguchi, Hiroyuki; Yoshioka, Kiyoshi; Kitajima, Yasuo; Xie, Yan; Sato, Yuko; Iwasaki, Takeshi; Nogami, Jumpei; Okada, Seiji; Komatsu, Tetsuro; Semba, Yuichiro; Takemoto, Tatsuya; Kimura, Hiroshi; Kurumizaka, Hitoshi; Ohkawa, Yasuyuki

    2018-04-11

    Regulation of gene expression requires selective incorporation of histone H3 variant H3.3 into chromatin. Histone H3.3 has several subsidiary variants but their functions are unclear. Here we characterize the function of histone H3.3 sub-variant, H3mm7, which is expressed in skeletal muscle satellite cells. H3mm7 knockout mice demonstrate an essential role of H3mm7 in skeletal muscle regeneration. Chromatin analysis reveals that H3mm7 facilitates transcription by forming an open chromatin structure around promoter regions including those of myogenic genes. The crystal structure of the nucleosome containing H3mm7 reveals that, unlike the S57 residue of other H3 proteins, the H3mm7-specific A57 residue cannot form a hydrogen bond with the R40 residue of the cognate H4 molecule. Consequently, the H3mm7 nucleosome is unstable in vitro and exhibited higher mobility in vivo compared with the H3.3 nucleosome. We conclude that the unstable H3mm7 nucleosome may be required for proper skeletal muscle differentiation.

  8. Operation TUMBLER-SNAPPER, Project 9.2. Air Weather Service Participation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1953-01-01

    Charles L. Dyer, Jr. January 1953 Air Weather Service Slaicr.cra A •; »roved far public release; ia.f.öii ur.:; lited mgmst& UNCUSSIFIEO Reproduced...lHCMÜÜOOOUOOOüOOÜ \\—’ V-’ v«/ ^fc-* %»’ v^ *»/ Vrf » ^-^ ^-^ v** ’ H rH pH H H H Al pH H H ei IN Kl o o 0) (i) (u tu

  9. Sensitivity of sea urchin fertilization to pH varies across a natural pH mosaic.

    PubMed

    Kapsenberg, Lydia; Okamoto, Daniel K; Dutton, Jessica M; Hofmann, Gretchen E

    2017-03-01

    In the coastal ocean, temporal fluctuations in pH vary dramatically across biogeographic ranges. How such spatial differences in pH variability regimes might shape ocean acidification resistance in marine species remains unknown. We assessed the pH sensitivity of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus in the context of ocean pH variability. Using unique male-female pairs, originating from three sites with similar mean pH but different variability and frequency of low pH (pH T  ≤ 7.8) exposures, fertilization was tested across a range of pH (pH T 7.61-8.03) and sperm concentrations. High fertilization success was maintained at low pH via a slight right shift in the fertilization function across sperm concentration. This pH effect differed by site. Urchins from the site with the narrowest pH variability regime exhibited the greatest pH sensitivity. At this site, mechanistic fertilization dynamics models support a decrease in sperm-egg interaction rate with decreasing pH. The site differences in pH sensitivity build upon recent evidence of local pH adaptation in S. purpuratus and highlight the need to incorporate environmental variability in the study of global change biology.

  10. Pulmonary mechanic and lung histology induced by Crotalus durissus cascavella snake venom.

    PubMed

    Oliveira Neto, Joselito de; Silveira, João Alison de Moraes; Serra, Daniel Silveira; Viana, Daniel de Araújo; Borges-Nojosa, Diva Maria; Sampaio, Célia Maria Souza; Monteiro, Helena Serra Azul; Cavalcante, Francisco Sales Ávila; Evangelista, Janaina Serra Azul Monteiro

    2017-10-01

    This study have analyzed the pulmonary function in an experimental model of acute lung injury, induced by the Crotalus durissus cascavella venom (C. d. cascavella) (3.0 μg/kg - i.p), in pulmonary mechanic and histology at 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after inoculation. The C. d. cascavella venom led to an increase in Newtonian Resistance (R N ), Tissue Resistance (G) and Tissue Elastance (H) in all groups when compared to the control, particularly at 12 h and 24 h. The Histeresivity (η) increased 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after inoculation. There was a decrease in Static Compliance (C ST ) at 6 h, 12 h and 24 h and inspiratory capacity (IC) at 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h. C. d. cascavella venom showed significant morphological changes such as atelectasis, emphysema, hemorrhage, polymorphonuclear inflammatory infiltrate, edema and congestion. After a challenge with methacholine (MCh), R N demonstrated significant changes at 6, 12 and 24 h. This venom caused mechanical and histopathological changes in the lung tissue; however, its mechanisms of action need further studies in order to better elucidate the morphofunctional lesions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. FLYING-WATER Renewables-H2-H2O TERRAFORMING: PERMANENT Drought(s)-Elimination FOREVER!!!

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ertl, G.; Alefeld, G.; Youdelis, W.; Radd, H.; Oertle, G.; Siegel, Edward

    2011-03-01

    "H2O H2O everywhere; ne'er a drop to drink"[Coleridge(1798)]; now: "H2 H2 everywhere; STILL ne'er a drop to drink": ONLY H2 (or methane CH4) can be FLYING-WATER(F-W) chemical-rain-in-pipelines Hindenberg-effect (H2-UP;H2O-DOWN): {O/H2O}=[16]/[18] 90 % ; O already in air uphill; NO H2O pumping need! In global-warming driven H2O-starved glacial-melting world, rescue is possible ONLY by Siegel [{3rd Intl. Conf. Alt.-Energy }(1980)-vol.5/p.459!!!] Renewables-H2-H2O purposely flexible versatile agile customizable scaleable retrofitable integrated operating-system. Rosenfeld[Science 315,1396(3/9/2007)]-Biello [Sci.Am.(3/9/2007)] crucial geomorph-ology which ONLY maximal-buoyancy H2 can exploit, to again make "Mountains into Fountains", ``upthrust rocks trapping the clouds to precipitate their rain/snow/H2O'': "terraforming"(and ocean-rebasificaton!!!) Siegel proprietary magnetic-hydrogen-valve (MHV) permits H2 flow in already in-ground dense BCC/ferritic-steels pipelines-network (NO new infrastructure) counters Tromp[Science 300,1740(2003)] dire warning of global-pandemics (cancers/ blindness/famine) Hydrogen-economy CATASTROPHIC H2 ozone-layer destruction sobering cavat to dangerous H2-automotion-economy panacea hype!!!

  12. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the secretome of cultured embryos: hyperglycosylated hCG and hCG-free beta subunit are potential markers for infertility management and treatment.

    PubMed

    Butler, Stephen A; Luttoo, Jameel; Freire, Maísa O T; Abban, Thomas K; Borrelli, Paola T A; Iles, Ray K

    2013-09-01

    Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by trophoblast cells throughout pregnancy, and gene expression studies have indicated that hCG-beta subunit (hCGβ) expression is active at the 2 blastomere stage. Here, we investigated the qualitative hCG output of developing embryos in culture and hCG isoforms expressed in the secretome as a novel sensitive method for detecting hCG. Culture media was collected from the culture plates of 118 embryos in culture (including controls and embryos at different stages of culture) from 16 patients undergoing routine fertility treatment. The hCGβ was detectable in media from 2 pronuclear (2PN) stage embryos through to the blastocyst stage. The hCGβ was absent in 1PN and arrested embryos as well as all media controls. Prior to hatching, hyperglycosylated hCG (hCGh) was observed selectively in 3PN embryos, but after hatching, along with hCG, became the dominant hCG molecule observed. We have reported at the 2PN stage the earliest evidence of hCGβ expression in embryos. There is a suggestion this may be indicative of quality in early embryos, and hCGh seen at the pronuclear stage may suggest triploid abnormality. The dominance of hCG, and hCGh expression, seen after blastocyst hatching may be indicative of potential implantation success. Thus, hCG isoforms have potential roles as biomarkers of embryo viability for embryo/blastocyst transfer.

  13. Strategy for pH control and pH feedback-controlled substrate feeding for high-level production of L-tryptophan by Escherichia coli.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Li-Kun; Wang, Jian; Xu, Qing-Yang; Zhao, Chun-Guang; Shen, Zhi-Qiang; Xie, Xi-Xian; Chen, Ning

    2013-05-01

    Optimum production of L-tryptophan by Escherichia coli depends on pH. Here, we established conditions for optimizing the production of L-tryptophan. The optimum pH range was 6.5-7.2, and pH was controlled using a three-stage strategy [pH 6.5 (0-12 h), pH 6.8 (12-24 h), and pH 7.2 (24-38 h)]. Specifically, ammonium hydroxide was used to adjust pH during the initial 24 h, and potassium hydroxide and ammonium hydroxide (1:2, v/v) were used to adjust pH during 24-38 h. Under these conditions, NH4 (+) and K(+) concentrations were kept below the threshold for inhibiting L-tryptophan production. Optimization was also accomplished using ratios (v/v) of glucose to alkali solutions equal to 4:1 (5-24 h) and 6:1 (24-38 h). The concentration of glucose and the pH were controlled by adjusting the pH automatically. Applying a pH-feedback feeding method, the steady-state concentration of glucose was maintained at approximately 0.2 ± 0.02 g/l, and acetic acid accumulated to a concentration of 1.15 ± 0.03 g/l, and the plasmid stability was 98 ± 0.5 %. The final, optimized concentration of L-tryptophan was 43.65 ± 0.29 g/l from 52.43 ± 0.38 g/l dry cell weight.

  14. Full-dimensional quantum dynamics study of the H{sub 2} + C{sub 2}H → H + C{sub 2}H{sub 2} reaction on an ab initio potential energy surface

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chen, Liuyang; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049; Shao, Kejie

    2016-05-21

    This work performs a time-dependent wavepacket study of the H{sub 2} + C{sub 2}H → H + C{sub 2}H{sub 2} reaction on a new ab initio potential energy surface (PES). The PES is constructed using neural network method based on 68 478 geometries with energies calculated at UCCSD(T)-F12a/aug-cc-pVTZ level and covers H{sub 2} + C{sub 2}H↔H + C{sub 2}H{sub 2}, H + C{sub 2}H{sub 2} → HCCH{sub 2}, and HCCH{sub 2} radial isomerization reaction regions. The reaction dynamics of H{sub 2} + C{sub 2}H → H + C{sub 2}H{sub 2} are investigated using full-dimensional quantum dynamics method. The initial-state selected reactionmore » probabilities are calculated for reactants in eight vibrational states. The calculated results showed that the H{sub 2} vibrational excitation predominantly enhances the reactivity while the excitation of bending mode of C{sub 2}H slightly inhibits the reaction. The excitations of two stretching modes of C{sub 2}H molecule have negligible effect on the reactivity. The integral cross section is calculated with J-shift approximation and the mode selectivity in this reaction is discussed. The rate constants over 200-2000 K are calculated and agree well with the experimental measured values.« less

  15. The final frontier of pH and the undiscovered country beyond.

    PubMed

    Bal, Wojciech; Kurowska, Ewa; Maret, Wolfgang

    2012-01-01

    The comparison of volumes of cells and subcellular structures with the pH values reported for them leads to a conflict with the definition of the pH scale. The pH scale is based on the ionic product of water, K(w) = [H(+)]×[OH(-)].We used K(w) [in a reversed way] to calculate the number of undissociated H(2)O molecules required by this equilibrium constant to yield at least one of its daughter ions, H(+) or OH(-) at a given pH. In this way we obtained a formula that relates pH to the minimal volume V(pH) required to provide a physical meaning to K(w), V(pH)=10(pH-pK(w/2) x 10(pK(w/2)/N(A) (where N(A) is Avogadro's number). For example, at pH 7 (neutral at 25°C) V(pH) =16.6 aL. Any deviation from neutral pH results in a larger V(pH) value. Our results indicate that many subcellular structures, including coated vesicles and lysosomes, are too small to contain free H(+) ions at equilibrium, thus the definition of pH based on K(w) is no longer valid. Larger subcellular structures, such as mitochondria, apparently contain only a few free H(+) ions. These results indicate that pH fails to describe intracellular conditions, and that water appears to be dissociated too weakly to provide free H(+) ions as a general source for biochemical reactions. Consequences of this finding are discussed.

  16. The Influence of pH of Extracting Water on the Composition of Seaweed Extracts and Their Beneficial Properties on Lepidium sativum.

    PubMed

    Godlewska, Katarzyna; Michalak, Izabela; Tuhy, Łukasz; Chojnacka, Katarzyna

    2017-01-01

    Baltic seaweeds were used to obtain aqueous extracts (E) through changing initial pH of deionised water added to algal biomass (EpH3·H 2 O, EpH7·H 2 O, and EpH10·H 2 O) and through changing pH of the mixture of algae and deionised water (EpH3, EpH7, and EpH10). Algal extracts were characterized in terms of the concentration of polyphenols and micro- and macroelements. The highest concentration of polyphenols was determined in extract EpH3 and the lowest in extract EpH10·H 2 O. It was found that the obtained extracts had similar concentrations of elements (except EpH3). The phytotoxicity of algal extracts (0.5, 2.5, and 10%) was examined in the germination tests on Lepidium sativum . No phytotoxic effects were observed. It was found that they had beneficial effects on the cultivated plants (length and weight). The best biostimulant effect was observed in the groups treated with EpH3 (2.5%), EpH7 (2.5%), and EpH7 (10%). The dry weight of plants was similar in all the groups. Algal extract also improved the multielemental composition of plant. The greatest concentration of total chlorophyll in plants was obtained by using extract EpH10·H 2 O, 0.5%. These results proved that algal extracts have high potential to be applied in cultivation of plants.

  17. The Influence of pH of Extracting Water on the Composition of Seaweed Extracts and Their Beneficial Properties on Lepidium sativum

    PubMed Central

    Tuhy, Łukasz; Chojnacka, Katarzyna

    2017-01-01

    Baltic seaweeds were used to obtain aqueous extracts (E) through changing initial pH of deionised water added to algal biomass (EpH3·H2O, EpH7·H2O, and EpH10·H2O) and through changing pH of the mixture of algae and deionised water (EpH3, EpH7, and EpH10). Algal extracts were characterized in terms of the concentration of polyphenols and micro- and macroelements. The highest concentration of polyphenols was determined in extract EpH3 and the lowest in extract EpH10·H2O. It was found that the obtained extracts had similar concentrations of elements (except EpH3). The phytotoxicity of algal extracts (0.5, 2.5, and 10%) was examined in the germination tests on Lepidium sativum. No phytotoxic effects were observed. It was found that they had beneficial effects on the cultivated plants (length and weight). The best biostimulant effect was observed in the groups treated with EpH3 (2.5%), EpH7 (2.5%), and EpH7 (10%). The dry weight of plants was similar in all the groups. Algal extract also improved the multielemental composition of plant. The greatest concentration of total chlorophyll in plants was obtained by using extract EpH10·H2O, 0.5%. These results proved that algal extracts have high potential to be applied in cultivation of plants. PMID:28480222

  18. Ion-molecule reactions relevant to Titan's ionosphere.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McEwan, M. J.; Scott, G. B. I.; Anicich, V. G.

    1998-02-01

    Twenty four new ion-molecule reactions are presented for inclusion in the modeling of the ionosphere of Saturn's satellite Titan. Sixteen reactions were re-examined to reduce uncertainties in the previous literature results. In this study the authors have examined the reactions of N+ and N2+ with CH4, C2H2, C2H4, C2H6, HCN, CH2CHCN and HC3N; the reaction of N+ with CH3CN; the reactions of C3H5+ with CH4, C2H2 C2H4, C2H6, H2, HCN, HC3N and CH2CHCN; the reactions of C2N2+ with C2H2; C2H2+ and C2N2; C2H4 with C2H3+, C2H4+, CHCCNH+, and HC5N+; HCNH+ with C2H6; C3H6+ with C3H6; HCN with C2H6+, C3H6+, c-C3H6+, C2N2+ and NO+; N2 with C2H2+ and C2H5+; C2H4+ and HC3N. The ions selected for this study were derived either from nitrogen, appropriate hydrocarbons or nitriles. The reactant neutrals were selected on the basis of their known presence in Titan's atmosphere. The reaction products are consistent with the expected increase in ion size through ion-molecule reaction processing. Data are also presented for the reactions of 23 ions with molecular nitrogen. Almost all of these ions are unreactive with N2.

  19. Effect of the time interval between fusion and activation on epigenetic reprogramming and development of bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jun; Wang, Yongsheng; Su, Jianmin; Wang, Lijun; Li, Ruizhe; Li, Qian; Wu, Yongyan; Hua, Song; Quan, Fusheng; Guo, Zekun; Zhang, Yong

    2013-04-01

    Previous studies have shown that the time interval between fusion and activation (FA interval) play an important role in nuclear remodeling and in vitro development of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos. However, the effects of FA interval on the epigenetic reprogramming and in vivo developmental competence of SCNT embryos remain unknown. In the present study, the effects of different FA intervals (0 h, 2 h, and 4 h) on the epigenetic reprogramming and developmental competence of bovine SCNT embryos were assessed. The results demonstrated that H3 lysine 9 (H3K9ac) levels decreased rapidly after fusion in all three groups. H3K9ac was practically undetectable 2 h after fusion in the 2-h and 4-h FA interval groups. However, H3K9ac was still evidently detectable in the 0-h FA interval group. The H3K9ac levels increased 10 h after fusion in all three groups, but were higher in the 2-h and 4-h FA interval groups than that in the 0-h FA interval group. The methylation levels of the satellite I region in day-7 blastocysts derived from the 2-h or 4-h FA interval groups was similar to that of in vitro fertilization blastocysts and is significantly lower than that of the 0-h FA interval group. SCNT embryos derived from 2-h FA interval group showed higher developmental competence than those from the 0-h and 4-h FA interval groups in terms of cleavage rate, blastocyst formation rate, apoptosis index, and pregnancy and calving rates. Hence, the FA interval is an important factor influencing the epigenetic reprogramming and developmental competence of bovine SCNT embryos.

  20. ON THE ORIGINS OF THE DIFFUSE H{alpha} EMISSION: IONIZED GAS OR DUST-SCATTERED H{alpha} HALOS?

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Seon, Kwang-Il; Witt, Adolf N., E-mail: kiseon@kasi.re.kr

    2012-10-20

    It is known that the diffuse H{alpha} emission outside of bright H II regions not only are very extended, but also can occur in distinct patches or filaments far from H II regions, and the line ratios of [S II] {lambda}6716/H{alpha} and [N II] {lambda}6583/H{alpha} observed far from bright H II regions are generally higher than those in the H II regions. These observations have been regarded as evidence against the dust-scattering origin of the diffuse H{alpha} emission (including other optical lines), and the effect of dust scattering has been neglected in studies on the diffuse H{alpha} emission. In thismore » paper, we reexamine the arguments against dust scattering and find that the dust-scattering origin of the diffuse H{alpha} emission cannot be ruled out. As opposed to the previous contention, the expected dust-scattered H{alpha} halos surrounding H II regions are, in fact, in good agreement with the observed H{alpha} morphology. We calculate an extensive set of photoionization models by varying elemental abundances, ionizing stellar types, and clumpiness of the interstellar medium (ISM) and find that the observed line ratios of [S II]/H{alpha}, [N II]/H{alpha}, and He I {lambda}5876/H{alpha} in the diffuse ISM accord well with the dust-scattered halos around H II regions, which are photoionized by late O- and/or early B-type stars. We also demonstrate that the H{alpha} absorption feature in the underlying continuum from the dust-scattered starlight ({sup d}iffuse galactic light{sup )} and unresolved stars is able to substantially increase the [S II]/H{alpha} and [N II]/H{alpha} line ratios in the diffuse ISM.« less

  1. Protection of guinea pigs by vaccination with a recombinant swinepox virus co-expressing HA1 genes of swine H1N1 and H3N2 influenza viruses.

    PubMed

    Xu, Jiarong; Yang, Deji; Huang, Dongyan; Xu, Jiaping; Liu, Shichao; Lin, Huixing; Zhu, Haodan; Liu, Bao; Lu, Chengping

    2013-03-01

    Swine influenza (SI) is an acute respiratory infectious disease of swine caused by swine influenza virus (SIV). SIV is not only an important respiratory pathogen in pigs but also a potent threat to human health. Here, we report the construction of a recombinant swinepox virus (rSPV/H3-2A-H1) co-expressing hemagglutinin (HA1) of SIV subtypes H1N1 and H3N2. Immune responses and protection efficacy of the rSPV/H3-2A-H1 were evaluated in guinea pigs. Inoculation of rSPV/H3-2A-H1 yielded neutralizing antibodies against SIV H1N1 and H3N2. The IFN-γ and IL-4 concentrations in the supernatant of lymphocytes stimulated with purified SIV HA1 antigen were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than those of the control groups. Complete protection of guinea pigs against SIV H1N1 or H3N2 challenge was observed. No SIV shedding was detected from guinea pigs vaccinated with rSPV/H3-2A-H1 after challenge. Most importantly, the guinea pigs immunized with rSPV/H3-2A-H1 did not show gross and micrographic lung lesions. However, the control guinea pigs experienced distinct gross and micrographic lung lesions at 7 days post-challenge. Our data suggest that the recombinant swinepox virus encoding HA1 of SIV H1N1 and H3N2 might serve as a promising candidate vaccine for protection against SIV H1N1 and H3N2 infections.

  2. Development of rapid immunochromatographic test for hemagglutinin antigen of H7 subtype in patients infected with novel avian influenza A (H7N9) virus.

    PubMed

    Kang, Keren; Chen, Li; Zhao, Xiang; Qin, Chengfeng; Zhan, Zanwu; Wang, Jihua; Li, Wenmei; Dzakah, Emmanuel E; Huang, Weijuang; Shu, Yuelong; Jiang, Tao; Cao, Wuchun; Xie, Mingquan; Luo, Xiaochun; Tang, Shixing

    2014-01-01

    Since human infection with the novel H7N9 avian influenza virus was identified in China in March 2013, the relatively high mortality rate and possibility of human-to-human transmission have highlighted the urgent need for sensitive and specific assays for diagnosis of H7N9 infection. We developed a rapid diagnostic test for the novel avian influenza A (H7N9) virus using anti-hemagglutinin (HA) monoclonal antibodies specifically targeting H7 in an immunochromatographic assay system. The assay limit of detection was 103.5 pfu/ml or 103TCID50 of H7N9 virus. The assay specifically detected H7N9 viral isolates and recombinant HA proteins of H7 subtypes including H7N7 and H7N9, but did not react with non-H7 subtypes including H1N1, H3N2, H5N1, H5N9, and H9N2. The detection sensitivity was 59.4% (19/32) for H7N9 patients confirmed by RT-PCR. Moreover, the highest sensitivity of 61.5% (16/26) was obtained when testing H7N9 positive sputum samples while 35.7% (5/14) of nasopharyngeal swabs and 20% (2/10) of fecal samples tested positive. No false positive detection was found when testing 180 H7N9 negative samples. Our novel rapid assay can specifically detect H7 HA antigen, facilitating rapid diagnosis for prevention and control of the on-going H7N9 epidemic.

  3. Development of Rapid Immunochromatographic Test for Hemagglutinin Antigen of H7 Subtype in Patients Infected with Novel Avian Influenza A (H7N9) Virus

    PubMed Central

    Kang, Keren; Chen, Li; Zhao, Xiang; Qin, Chengfeng; Zhan, Zanwu; Wang, Jihua; Li, Wenmei; Dzakah, Emmanuel E.; Huang, Weijuang; Shu, Yuelong; Jiang, Tao; Cao, Wuchun; Xie, Mingquan; Luo, Xiaochun; Tang, Shixing

    2014-01-01

    Background Since human infection with the novel H7N9 avian influenza virus was identified in China in March 2013, the relatively high mortality rate and possibility of human-to-human transmission have highlighted the urgent need for sensitive and specific assays for diagnosis of H7N9 infection. Methodology/Principal Findings We developed a rapid diagnostic test for the novel avian influenza A (H7N9) virus using anti-hemagglutinin (HA) monoclonal antibodies specifically targeting H7 in an immunochromatographic assay system. The assay limit of detection was 103.5 pfu/ml or 103TCID50 of H7N9 virus. The assay specifically detected H7N9 viral isolates and recombinant HA proteins of H7 subtypes including H7N7 and H7N9, but did not react with non-H7 subtypes including H1N1, H3N2, H5N1, H5N9, and H9N2. The detection sensitivity was 59.4% (19/32) for H7N9 patients confirmed by RT-PCR. Moreover, the highest sensitivity of 61.5% (16/26) was obtained when testing H7N9 positive sputum samples while 35.7% (5/14) of nasopharyngeal swabs and 20% (2/10) of fecal samples tested positive. No false positive detection was found when testing 180 H7N9 negative samples. Conclusions/Significance Our novel rapid assay can specifically detect H7 HA antigen, facilitating rapid diagnosis for prevention and control of the on-going H7N9 epidemic. PMID:24647358

  4. Full-dimensional, high-level ab initio potential energy surfaces for H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O) and H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2} with application to hydrogen clathrate hydrates

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Homayoon, Zahra; Conte, Riccardo; Qu, Chen

    2015-08-28

    New, full-dimensional potential energy surfaces (PESs), obtained using precise least-squares fitting of high-level electronic energy databases, are reported for intrinsic H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O) two-body and H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2} three-body potentials. The database for H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O) consists of approximately 44 000 energies at the coupled cluster singles and doubles plus perturbative triples (CCSD(T))-F12a/haQZ (aug-cc-pVQZ for O and cc-pVQZ for H) level of theory, while the database for the three-body interaction consists of more than 36 000 energies at the CCSD(T)-F12a/haTZ (aug-cc-pVTZ for O, cc-pVTZ for H) level of theory. Two precise potentials are based on the invariant-polynomial technique and are comparedmore » to computationally faster ones obtained via “purified” symmetrization. All fits use reduced permutational symmetry appropriate for these non-covalent interactions. These intrinsic potentials are employed together with existing ones for H{sub 2}, H{sub 2}O, and (H{sub 2}O){sub 2}, to obtain full PESs for H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O) and H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}. Properties of these full PESs are presented, including a diffusion Monte Carlo calculation of the zero-point energy and wavefunction, and dissociation energy of the H{sub 2}(H{sub 2}O) dimer. These PESs together with an existing one for water clusters are used in a many-body representation of the PES of hydrogen clathrate hydrates, illustrated for H{sub 2}@(H{sub 2}O){sub 20}. An analysis of this hydrate is presented, including the electronic dissociation energy to remove H{sub 2} from the calculated equilibrium structure.« less

  5. H1N1 influenza viruses varying widely in hemagglutinin stability transmit efficiently from swine to swine and to ferrets.

    PubMed

    Russier, Marion; Yang, Guohua; Marinova-Petkova, Atanaska; Vogel, Peter; Kaplan, Bryan S; Webby, Richard J; Russell, Charles J

    2017-03-01

    A pandemic-capable influenza virus requires a hemagglutinin (HA) surface glycoprotein that is immunologically unseen by most people and is capable of supporting replication and transmission in humans. HA stabilization has been linked to 2009 pH1N1 pandemic potential in humans and H5N1 airborne transmissibility in the ferret model. Swine have served as an intermediate host for zoonotic influenza viruses, yet the evolutionary pressure exerted by this host on HA stability was unknown. For over 70 contemporary swine H1 and H3 isolates, we measured HA activation pH to range from pH 5.1 to 5.9 for H1 viruses and pH 5.3 to 5.8 for H3 viruses. Thus, contemporary swine isolates vary widely in HA stability, having values favored by both avian (pH >5.5) and human and ferret (pH ≤5.5) species. Using an early 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) virus backbone, we generated three viruses differing by one HA residue that only altered HA stability: WT (pH 5.5), HA1-Y17H (pH 6.0), and HA2-R106K (pH 5.3). All three replicated in pigs and transmitted from pig-to-pig and pig-to-ferret. WT and R106 viruses maintained HA genotype and phenotype after transmission. Y17H (pH 6.0) acquired HA mutations that stabilized the HA protein to pH 5.8 after transmission to pigs and 5.5 after transmission to ferrets. Overall, we found swine support a broad range of HA activation pH for contact transmission and many recent swine H1N1 and H3N2 isolates have stabilized (human-like) HA proteins. This constitutes a heightened pandemic risk and underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and control efforts for swine viruses.

  6. Association between platelet P2Y12 haplotype and risk of cardiovascular events in chronic coronary disease.

    PubMed

    Schettert, Isolmar T; Pereira, Alexandre C; Lopes, Neuza H; Hueb, Whady A; Krieger, Jose E

    2006-01-01

    A positive association was recently described between P2Y12 platelet receptor H1 and H2 haplotypes and peripheral artery disease. We tested the described P2Y12 receptor haplotypes in a group of patients with coronary artery disease. The P2Y12 platelet receptor H1 and H2 haplotypes was tested in a group of 540 patients enrolled in the Medical, Angioplasty, or Surgery Study II (MASS II), a randomized trial comparing treatments for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and preserved left ventricular function. After a 3-year follow-up period, the incidence of the composite end point of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and refractory angina requiring revascularization was determined in the H1/H1, H1/H2 and H2/H2 haplotype groups. We used Student's t-test and the chi-square test to analyze the differences among groups and Kaplan-Meier method to calculate survival curves. Risk was assessed with the use of a Cox proportional-hazards model. The frequency of haplotypes among studied patients were 410 (75.9%) H1/H1, 119 (22.0%) H1/H2 and 11 (2.1%) H2/H2. The baseline clinical characteristics, mean clinical follow-up time and received treatment of each genotype group were similar. We did not disclose any association between haplotype groups regarding the incidence of any of the studied cardiovascular end-points. This is the first report studying the association of P2Y12 platelet receptor H1 and H2 haplotype and cardiovascular events. Our findings do not provide evidence for a strong association between H1/H1 and H1/H2 haplotypes and a increased risk of cardiovascular events in a population with CAD. Future works should address the role of the H2/H2 haplotype as a genetic marker for cardiovascular events.

  7. A molecular line study towards massive extended green object clumps in the southern sky: chemical properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Naiping; Wang, Jun-Jie

    2015-08-01

    We present a molecular line study towards 31 extended green object (EGO) clumps in the southern sky using data from MALT90 (Millimetre Astronomy Legacy Team 90 GHz). According to previous multiwavelength observations, we divide our sample into two groups: massive young stellar objects (MYSOs) and H II regions. The most detected lines are N2H+ (J = 1 - 0), HCO+ (J = 1 - 0), HNC (J = 1 - 0), HCN (J = 1 - 0), HC3N (J = 10 - 9), H13CO+ (J = 1 - 0), C2H (N = 1 - 0) and SiO (J = 2 - 1), indicating that most EGOs are indeed associated with dense clumps and recent outflow activities. The velocity widths of the N2H+ (J = 1 - 0), H13CO+ (J = 1 - 0), C2H (N = 1 - 0) and HC3N (J = 10 - 9) lines are comparable to each other in MYSOs. However, in H II regions the velocity widths of the N2H+ (J = 1 - 0) and C2H (N = 1 - 0) lines tend to be narrower than those of H13CO+ (J = 1 - 0) and HC3N (J = 10 - 9). Our results seem to support that N2H+ and C2H emissions mainly come from the gas inside quiescent clumps. In addition, we also find that the [N2H+]/[H13CO+] and [C2H]/[H13CO+] relative abundance ratios decrease from MYSOs to H II regions. These results suggest depletion of N2H+ and C2H in the late stages of massive-star formation, probably caused by the formation of H II regions inside. N2H+ and C2H might be used as chemical clocks for massive-star formation by comparing with other molecules such as H13CO+ and HC3N.

  8. How Helicobacter pylori urease may affect external pH and influence growth and motility in the mucus environment: evidence from in-vitro studies.

    PubMed

    Sidebotham, Ramon L; Worku, Mulugeta L; Karim, Q Najma; Dhir, Nirmal K; Baron, J Hugh

    2003-04-01

    Survival of Helicobacter pylori is dependent upon urease in the cytoplasm and at the bacterial surface. We have sought to clarify how alkaline ammonium salts, released from urea by this enzyme, might alter mucus pH and so affect growth and motility of the bacterium in the gastric mucus environment. Experiments were conducted in vitro to determine how the growth and motility of H. pylori are affected by changes in external pH, and how the bacterium, by hydrolysing urea, alters the pH of the bicarbonate buffer that occurs at the gastric mucosal surface. These data were fitted into experimental models that describe how pH varies within the mucus layer in the acid-secreting stomach. H. pylori was motile between pH 5 and 8, with optimal motility at pH 5. It grew between pH 6 and 8, with optimal growth at pH 6. The bacterium had urease activity between pH 2.7 and 7.4, as evidenced by pH rises in bicarbonate-buffered solutions of urea. Changes in buffer pH were dependent upon initial pH and urea concentration, with the greatest rate of pH change occurring at pH 3. Modelling experiments utilizing these data indicated that (1) in the absence of urease, H. pylori growth and motility in the mucus layer would be restricted severely by low mucus pH in the acid-secreting stomach, and (2) urease will sometimes inhibit H. pylori growth and motility in the mucus layer by elevating the pH of the mucus environment above pH 8. Urease is essential to the growth and motility of H. pylori in the mucus layer in the acid-secreting stomach, but, paradoxically, sometimes it might suppress colonization by raising the mucus pH above 8. This latter effect may protect the bacteria from the adverse consequences of overpopulation.

  9. H1N1 influenza viruses varying widely in hemagglutinin stability transmit efficiently from swine to swine and to ferrets

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Guohua; Marinova-Petkova, Atanaska; Kaplan, Bryan S.; Webby, Richard J.

    2017-01-01

    A pandemic-capable influenza virus requires a hemagglutinin (HA) surface glycoprotein that is immunologically unseen by most people and is capable of supporting replication and transmission in humans. HA stabilization has been linked to 2009 pH1N1 pandemic potential in humans and H5N1 airborne transmissibility in the ferret model. Swine have served as an intermediate host for zoonotic influenza viruses, yet the evolutionary pressure exerted by this host on HA stability was unknown. For over 70 contemporary swine H1 and H3 isolates, we measured HA activation pH to range from pH 5.1 to 5.9 for H1 viruses and pH 5.3 to 5.8 for H3 viruses. Thus, contemporary swine isolates vary widely in HA stability, having values favored by both avian (pH >5.5) and human and ferret (pH ≤5.5) species. Using an early 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) virus backbone, we generated three viruses differing by one HA residue that only altered HA stability: WT (pH 5.5), HA1-Y17H (pH 6.0), and HA2-R106K (pH 5.3). All three replicated in pigs and transmitted from pig-to-pig and pig-to-ferret. WT and R106 viruses maintained HA genotype and phenotype after transmission. Y17H (pH 6.0) acquired HA mutations that stabilized the HA protein to pH 5.8 after transmission to pigs and 5.5 after transmission to ferrets. Overall, we found swine support a broad range of HA activation pH for contact transmission and many recent swine H1N1 and H3N2 isolates have stabilized (human-like) HA proteins. This constitutes a heightened pandemic risk and underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and control efforts for swine viruses. PMID:28282440

  10. The Simultaneous Determination of Muscle Cell pH Using a Weak Acid and Weak Base

    PubMed Central

    Adler, Sheldon

    1972-01-01

    Should significant pH heterogeneity exist within cells then the simultaneous calculation of intracellular pH from the distribution of a weak acid will give a value closest to the highest pH in the system, whereas calculation from the distribution of a weak base will give a value closer to the lowest pH. These two values should then differ significantly. Intact rat diaphragms were exposed in vitro to varying bicarbonate concentrations (pure metabolic) and CO2 tensions (pure respiratory), and steady-state cell pH was measured simultaneously either by distribution of the weak acid 5,5-dimethyloxazolidine-2,4-dione-14C (pH DMO) or by distribution of the weak base nicotine-14C (pH nicotine). The latter compound was found suitable to measure cell pH since it was neither metabolized nor bound by rat diaphragms. At an external pH of 7.40, pH DMO was 7.17 while pH nicotine was 6.69—a pH difference of 0.48 pH units (P < 0.001). In either respiratory or metabolic alkalosis both DMO and pH nicotine rose so that differences between them remained essentially constant. Metabolic acidosis induced a decrease in both values though they fell more slowly than did extracellular pH. In contradistinction, in respiratory acidosis, decreasing extracellular pH from 7.40 to 6.80 resulted in 0.35 pH unit drop in pH DMO while pH nicotine remained constant. In every experiment, under all external conditions, pH DMO exceeded pH nicotine. These results indicate that there is significant pH heterogeneity within diaphragm muscle, but the degree of heterogeneity may vary under different external conditions. The metabolic implications of these findings are discussed. In addition, the data show that true overall cell pH is between 6.69 and 7.17—a full pH higher than would be expected from thermodynamic considerations alone. This implies the presence of active processes to maintain cell pH. PMID:5009113

  11. Recombinant influenza H7 hemagglutinin containing CFLLC minidomain in the transmembrane domain showed enhanced cross-protection in mice.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yang; Zhang, Yun; Wu, Jialing; Lin, Ying; Wu, Zhihui; Wei, Ying; Wei, Xiaona; Qin, Jianru; Xue, Chunyi; Liu, George Dacai; Cao, Yongchang

    2017-10-15

    Since February 2013, H7N9 influenza virus, causing human infections with high mortality in China, has been a potential pandemic threat. The H7N9 viruses are found to diverge into distinct genotypes as other influenza viruses; thus a vaccine that can provide sufficient cross-protection against different genotypes of H7N9 viruses is urgently needed. Our previous studies demonstrated that the HA-based structural design approach by introducing a CFLLC minidomain into transmembrane domain (TM) of H1, H5 or H9 hemagglutinin (HA) proteins by replacing with H3 subtype HA TM could enhance their cross-protection. In this study, we used Sf9 insect cell expression system to express recombinant H7 HA proteins H7-53WT, in which HA gene was derived from H7N9-53 strain, and H7-53TM containing CFLLC minidomian by replacing its TM domain with H3 HA TM. We investigated whether introduction of CFLLC minidomain into H7 HA (H7-53TM) could increase its cross-reactivity and cross-protection against different genotypes of H7N9 viruses. The results showed that the H7-53TM either with or without squalene adjuvant induced increased HI antibodies, serum IgG antibodies, and IFN-γ production to a panel of 7 H7N9 viruses in mice. Vaccinated animals with H7-53TM alone showed complete protection against challenge with heterologous H7N9-MCX strain, while H7-53WT alone showed incomplete protection (80%). Furthermore, mice vaccinated with H7-53TM HA showed less body weight loss and less pulmonary lesions and inflammation after challenge with homologous or heterologous H7N9 viruses, comparing to H7-53WT. In summary, this study presents a better subunit vaccine candidate (H7-53TM) against potential H7N9 pandemic. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. A reassortant H9N2 influenza virus containing 2009 pandemic H1N1 internal-protein genes acquired enhanced pig-to-pig transmission after serial passages in swine.

    PubMed

    Mancera Gracia, José Carlos; Van den Hoecke, Silvie; Richt, Juergen A; Ma, Wenjun; Saelens, Xavier; Van Reeth, Kristien

    2017-05-02

    Avian H9N2 and 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) influenza viruses can infect pigs and humans, raising the concern that H9N2:pH1N1 reassortant viruses could emerge. Such reassortants demonstrated increased replication and transmissibility in pig, but were still inefficient when compared to pH1N1. Here, we evaluated if a reassortant virus containing the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase of A/quail/Hong Kong/G1/1997 (H9N2) in the A/California/04/2009 (pH1N1) backbone could become better adapted to pigs by serial passaging. The tropism of the original H9N2:pH1N1 (P0) virus was restricted to the nasal mucosa, with no virus detected in the trachea or lungs. Nevertheless, after seven passages the H9N2:pH1N1 (P7) virus replicated in the entire respiratory tract. We also compared the transmissibility of H9N2:pH1N1 (P0), H9N2:pH1N1 (P7) and pH1N1. While only 2/6 direct-contact pigs showed nasal virus excretion of H9N2:pH1N1 (P0) ≥five days, 4/6 direct-contact animals shed the H9N2:pH1N1 (P7). Interestingly, those four animals shed virus with titers similar to those of the pH1N1, which readily transmitted to all six contact animals. The broader tissue tropism and the increased post-transmission replication after seven passages were associated with the HA-D225G substitution. Our data demonstrate that the pH1N1 internal-protein genes together with the serial passages favour H9N2 virus adaptation to pigs.

  13. Isolation and Genetic Characterization of Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Wild Birds in the Azov-Black Sea Region of Ukraine (2001-2012).

    PubMed

    Muzyka, Denys; Pantin-Jackwood, Mary; Spackman, Erica; Smith, Diane; Rula, Oleksandr; Muzyka, Nataliia; Stegniy, Borys

    2016-05-01

    Wild bird surveillance for avian influenza virus (AIV) was conducted from 2001 to 2012 in the Azov - Black Sea region of the Ukraine, considered part of the transcontinental wild bird migration routes from northern Asia and Europe to the Mediterranean, Africa, and southwest Asia. A total of 6281 samples were collected from wild birds representing 27 families and eight orders for virus isolation. From these samples, 69 AIVs belonging to 15 of the 16 known hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes and seven of nine known neuraminidase (NA) subtypes were isolated. No H14, N5, or N9 subtypes were identified. In total, nine H6, eight H1, nine H5, seven H7, six H11, six H4, five H3, five H10, four H8, three H2, three H9, one H12, one H13, one H15, and one H16 HA subtypes were isolated. As for the NA subtypes, twelve N2, nine N6, eight N8, seven N7, six N3, four N4, and one undetermined were isolated. There were 27 HA and NA antigen combinations. All isolates were low pathogenic AIV except for eight highly pathogenic (HP) AIVs that were isolated during the H5N1 HPAI outbreaks of 2006-08. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the HA genes revealed epidemiological connections between the Azov-Black Sea regions and Europe, Russia, Mongolia, and Southeast Asia. H1, H2, H3, H7, H8, H6, H9, and H13 AIV subtypes were closely related to European, Russian, Mongolian, and Georgian AIV isolates. H10, H11, and H12 AIV subtypes were epidemiologically linked to viruses from Europe and Southeast Asia. Serology conducted on serum and egg yolk samples also demonstrated previous exposure of many wild bird species to different AIVs. Our results demonstrate the great genetic diversity of AIVs in wild birds in the Azov-Black Sea region as well as the importance of this region for monitoring and studying the ecology of influenza viruses. This information furthers our understanding of the ecology of avian influenza viruses in wild bird species.

  14. Dihydrogen phosphate-water tape and layers vs dihydrogen phosphate layers tuned by hydrophobic isomeric pyridine-diamine functionalized molecules

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Jing; Liu, Tong-Peng; Huo, Li-Hua; Deng, Zhao-Peng; Gao, Shan

    2017-01-01

    Assembly of six isomeric pyridine-diamine-based molecules, N,N‧-bis(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine (M1), N,N‧-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine (M2), N,N‧-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine (M3), N,N‧-bis(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)propane-1,3-diamine (M4), N,N‧-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)propane-1,2-diamine (M5), and N,N‧-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)propane-1,3-diamine (M6), with phosphoric acid (H3PO4) in different ratio (1:2 and 1:4), leads to the formation of nine salts, H2M12+·2H2PO4-·4H2O (1), H2M22+·2H2PO4-·2H2O (2), H2M32+·2H2PO4-·2H2O (3), H4M14+·4H2PO4- (4), H4M24+·4H2PO4- (5), H4M34+·4H2PO4- (6), H2M42+·2H2PO4-·3H2O (7), 2H2M52+·4H2PO4-·2H3PO4 (8), and H2M62+·2H2PO4- (9), which have been characterized by elemental analysis, IR, TG, PL, powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Structural analyses indicate that hydrogen-bonding patterns of H2PO4- anions, conformation of protonated cations can effectively influence the supramolecular architectures through diverse non-covalent interactions. Hydrous salts 1-3 and 7 present 2D and 3D host-guest supramolecular networks, in which the connection of H2PO4- anions and water molecules generates diverse tape and layer motifs. H2PO4- anions in anhydrous salts 4-6 interconnect with each other through hydrogen bonds to form two types of layers, which are joined by discrete H4M4+ cations into 3D inorganic-organic hybrid supramolecular networks. Salts 8-9 also present 2D and 3D host-guest supramolecular networks where the interconnection of H2PO4- anions and its combination with H3PO4 molecules leads to diverse layers. Luminescent analyses indicate that salts 1-9 exhibit violet and blue emission maximum in the range of 390-467 nm at room temperature.

  15. Search for a charged higgs boson in proton-proton collisions at the lhc using the atlas detector

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCarn, Allison Renae

    This thesis documents several searches for charged Higgs bosons ( H+/-) in the decay H+/- → tauhadnu, which are performed using data recorded in 2011 and 2012 by the ATLAS detector at the LHC. The H+/- bosons are predicted by some extensions of the Standard Model (SM) that include multiple Higgs doublet fields, such as the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model. None of these searches has found evidence for the existence of H+/-, and exclusion limits are set on B(t → H+b) x B(H+ →taunu) and sigmaH+ x B(H+ →taunu) . For the 2011 ATLAS dataset, searches are performed for light H+/-, defined by mH+/- < mtop, on a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 4.6 fb-1 proton-proton collisions with s = 7 TeV. These searches are conducted using the decay channel tt → WbH+/-b, with H+/- → tauhadnu and the W boson decaying hadronically (tau+jets channel) or leptonically (tau+lepton). The combination of the channels in this search excludes at 95% confidence level (CL) a branching fraction of B(t → H+b) x B(H+ →taunu) = 1-5% for the mass range mH+/- = 90 - 160 GeV. An additional search, with the aim of observing H +/- through apparent violation of lepton universality in a ratio of yields, is also performed on this dataset. In this search, the tt → ℓnubtaunub event yield is compared to that of tt → ℓnubℓ'taunub . The signal would contribute to these yields through H +/- replacing the W boson in the SM tt decay and preferentially decaying to taunu. Combining this search with the tau+jets channel results in an improved 95% CL exclusion on the branching fraction of B(t → H+b) x B(H+ →taunu) = 0.8 - 3.4% for the mass range mH+/- = 90 - 160 GeV. For the 2012 ATLAS dataset, searches for an extended mass range of H+/- are performed on a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 19.5 fb-1 proton-proton collisions at s = 8 TeV. These H+/- searches are for final states involving a hadronic . and jets, both in tt decays and top-associated production. For H+/- with mH+/- < mtop, 95% CL limits are set on B(t → H+b) x B(H+ →taunu) of 0.3 - 2.4% in a mass range of mH+/- = 90 - 160 GeV. For H+/- with mH+/- > mtop, 95% CL limits are set on sigmaH+ x B(H + →taunu) of 0.03 - 0.8 pb, for a mass range of mH+/- = 180 - 600 GeV.

  16. Cocrystals of 6-methyl-2-thiouracil: presence of the acceptor-donor-acceptor/donor-acceptor-donor synthon.

    PubMed

    Hützler, Wilhelm Maximilian; Egert, Ernst

    2015-03-01

    The results of seven cocrystallization experiments of the antithyroid drug 6-methyl-2-thiouracil (MTU), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS, with 2,4-diaminopyrimidine, 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidine and 6-amino-3H-isocytosine (viz. 2,6-diamino-3H-pyrimidin-4-one) are reported. MTU features an ADA (A = acceptor and D = donor) hydrogen-bonding site, while the three coformers show complementary DAD hydrogen-bonding sites and therefore should be capable of forming an ADA/DAD N-H...O/N-H...N/N-H...S synthon with MTU. The experiments yielded one cocrystal and six cocrystal solvates, namely 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-2,4-diaminopyrimidine-1-methylpyrrolidin-2-one (1/1/2), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·C(4)H(6)N(4)·2C(5)H(9)NO, (I), 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-2,4-diaminopyrimidine (1/1), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·C(4)H(6)N(4), (II), 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-2,4-diaminopyrimidine-N,N-dimethylacetamide (2/1/2), 2C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·C(4)H(6)N(4)·2C(4)H(9)NO, (III), 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-2,4-diaminopyrimidine-N,N-dimethylformamide (2/1/2), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·0.5C(4)H(6)N(4)·C(3)H(7)NO, (IV), 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidinium 6-methyl-2-thiouracilate-6-methyl-2-thiouracil-N,N-dimethylformamide (1/1/2), C(4)H(8)N(5)(+)·C(5)H(5)N(2)OS(-)·C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·2C(3)H(7)NO, (V), 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-6-amino-3H-isocytosine-N,N-dimethylformamide (1/1/1), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·C(4)H(6)N(4)O·C(3)H(7)NO, (VI), and 6-methyl-2-thiouracil-6-amino-3H-isocytosine-dimethyl sulfoxide (1/1/1), C(5)H(6)N(2)OS·C(4)H(6)N(4)O·C(2)H(6)OS, (VII). Whereas in cocrystal (I) an R(2)(2)(8) interaction similar to the Watson-Crick adenine/uracil base pair is formed and a two-dimensional hydrogen-bonding network is observed, the cocrystals (II)-(VII) contain the triply hydrogen-bonded ADA/DAD N-H...O/N-H...N/N-H...S synthon and show a one-dimensional hydrogen-bonding network. Although 2,4-diaminopyrimidine possesses only one DAD hydrogen-bonding site, it is, due to orientational disorder, triply connected to two MTU molecules in (III) and (IV).

  17. A Bivalent Heterologous DNA Virus-Like-Particle Prime-Boost Vaccine Elicits Broad Protection against both Group 1 and 2 Influenza A Viruses

    PubMed Central

    Jiang, Wenbo; Wang, Shuangshuang; Chen, Honglin; Ren, Huanhuan; Huang, Xun; Wang, Guiqin; Chen, Ling; Chen, Zhiwei

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Current seasonal influenza vaccines are efficacious when vaccine strains are matched with circulating strains. However, they do not protect antigenic variants and newly emerging pandemic and outbreak strains. Thus, there is a critical need for developing so-called “universal” vaccines that protect against all influenza viruses. In the present study, we developed a bivalent heterologous DNA virus-like particle prime-boost vaccine strategy. We show that mice immunized with this vaccine were broadly protected against lethal challenge from group 1 (H1, H5, and H9) and group 2 (H3 and H7) viruses, with 94% aggregate survival. To determine the immune correlates of protection, we performed passive immunizations and in vitro assays. We show that this vaccine elicited antibody responses that bound HA from group 1 (H1, H2, H5, H6, H8, H9, H11, and H12) and group 2 (H3, H4, H7, H10, H14, and H15) and neutralized homologous and intrasubtypic H5 and H7 and heterosubtypic H1 viruses and hemagglutinin-specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses. As a result, passive immunization with immune sera fully protected mice against H5, H7, and H1 challenge, whereas with both immune sera and T cells the mice survived heterosubtypic H3 and H9 challenge. Thus, it appears that (i) neutralizing antibodies alone fully protect against homologous and intrasubtypic H5 and H7 and (ii) neutralizing and binding antibodies are sufficient to protect against heterosubtypic H1, (iii) but against heterosubtypic H3 and H9, binding antibodies and T cells are required for complete survival. We believe that this vaccine regimen could potentially be a candidate for a “universal” influenza vaccine. IMPORTANCE Influenza virus infection is global health problem. Current seasonal influenza vaccines are efficacious only when vaccine strains are matched with circulating strains. However, these vaccines do not protect antigenic variants and newly emerging pandemic and outbreak strains. Because of this, there is an urgent need to develop so-called “universal” influenza vaccines that can protect against both current and future influenza strains. In the present study, we developed a bivalent heterologous prime-boost vaccine strategy. We show that a bivalent vaccine regimen elicited broad binding and neutralizing antibody and T cell responses that conferred broad protection against diverse challenge viruses in mice, suggesting that this bivalent prime-boost strategy could practically be a candidate for a “universal” influenza vaccine. PMID:28179535

  18. Differential expression and signaling of the human histamine H3 receptor isoforms of 445 and 365 amino acids expressed in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells.

    PubMed

    Nieto-Alamilla, Gustavo; Escamilla-Sánchez, Juan; López-Méndez, María-Cristina; Molina-Hernández, Anayansi; Guerrero-Hernández, Agustín; Arias-Montaño, José-Antonio

    2018-04-01

    In stably-transfected human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, we have compared the effect of activating two isoforms of 445 and 365 amino acids of the human histamine H 3 receptor (hH 3 R 445 and hH 3 R 365 ) on [ 35 S]-GTPγS binding, forskolin-induced cAMP formation, depolarization-induced increase in the intracellular concentration of Ca 2+ ions ([Ca 2+ ]i) and depolarization-evoked [ 3  H]-dopamine release. Maximal specific binding (B max ) of [ 3  H]-N-methyl-histamine to cell membranes was 953 ± 204 and 555 ± 140 fmol/mg protein for SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 445 and SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 365 cells, respectively, with similar dissociation constants (K d , 0.86 nM and 0.81 nM). The mRNA of the hH 3 R 365 isoform was 40.9 ± 7.9% of the hH 3 R 445 isoform. No differences in receptor affinity were found for the H 3 R ligands histamine, immepip, (R)(-)-α-methylhistamine (RAMH), A-331440, clobenpropit and ciproxifan. Both the stimulation of [ 35 S]-GTPγS binding and the inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation by the agonist RAMH were significantly larger in SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 445 cells ([ 35 S]-GTPγS binding, 158.1 ± 7.5% versus 136.5 ± 3.6% for SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 365 cells; cAMP accumulation, -74.0 ± 4.9% versus -43.5 ± 5.3%), with no significant effect on agonist potency. In contrast, there were no differences in the efficacy and potency of RAMH to inhibit [ 3  H]-dopamine release evoked by 100 mM K + (-18.9 ± 3.0% and -20.5 ± 3.3%, for SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 445 and SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 365 cells), or the inhibition of depolarization-induced increase in [Ca 2+ ]i (S2/S1 ratios: parental cells 0.967 ± 0.069, SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 445 cells 0.639 ± 0.049, SH-SY5Y-hH 3 R 365 cells 0.737 ± 0.045). These results indicate that in SH-SY5Y cells, hH 3 R 445 and hH 3 R 365 isoforms regulate in a differential manner the signaling pathways triggered by receptor activation.

  19. A revision of the Axylus group of Agraeciini (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Conocephalinae) and of some other species formerly included in Nicsara or Anthracites Revision of the Indo-Australian Conocephalinae, Part 3.

    PubMed

    Ingrisch, Sigfrid

    2015-11-23

    Axylus group is used to include the five genera Axylus Stål, 1877, Anthracites Redtenbacher, 1891 sensu stricto, Eucoptaspis Willemse, 1966, Eulobaspis gen. nov., and Heminicsara Karny, 1912. It is mainly based on a combination of the characters shape of pronotum, spiniform meso- and metasternal lobes, and similar basic ground plans of the male cerci, titillators and female subgenital plates. The five genera together with two superficially similar genera Euanthracites gen. nov. and Sulasara gen. nov. are fully revised. Papuacites gen. nov. is proposed for two New Guinean species formerly included in Anthracites. Nicsara Walker, 1869 is restricted to Australian species; Spinisternum Willemse, 1942 is synonymised with Heminicsara Karny, 1912; Odontocoryphus Karny, 1907 based on two nymphs is synonymised with Macroxiphus Pictet, 1888; Pseudoliara Karny, 1907 described after one nymph is regarded incertae sedis. 40 new combination of species are proposed: Axylus bimaculatus (Redtenbacher, 1891) comb. nov., A. inferior (Brunner, 1898) comb. nov., A. inflatus (Brunner, 1898) comb. nov., A. loboensis (De Haan, 1842) comb. nov., A. minutus (Dohrn, 1905) comb. nov., A. nigrifrons (Brunner, 1898) comb. nov., A. philippinus (Hebard, 1922) comb. nov., A, taylori (Hebard, 1922) comb. nov., and A. thoracicus (Dohrn, 1905) comb. nov. (all from Nicsara); Euanthracites apoensis (Hebard, 1922) comb. nov., E. femoralis (Dohrn, 1905) comb. nov., E. rufus (Ingrisch, 1998) comb. nov., and E. tibialis (Karny, 1931) comb. nov. (from Anthracites); Eucoptaspis inexpectatus (Willemse, 1953) comb. nov. (from Gonatacanthus Karny, 1907); Eulobaspis dehaani (Karny, 1920) comb. nov., E. emarginata (Karny, 1926) comb. nov., E. moluccana (Redtenbacher, 1891) comb. nov., E. personata (Karny, 1926) comb. nov., E. quadrimaculata (Karny, 1926) comb. nov., E. rotundata (Karny, 1926) comb. nov., and E. strigatipes (Bolivar, 1898) comb. nov. (from Nicsara); Eulobaspis lobaspoides (Karny, 1907) comb. nov. and E. ornata (Brunner, 1898) comb. nov. (from Axylus); Heminicsara excisa (Karny, 1926) comb. nov., H. insulana (Willemse, 1966) comb. nov., H. schlaginhaufeni (Karny, 1912) comb. nov., and H. viridipes (Karny, 1912) comb. nov. (from Nicsara); Heminicsara castaneipictus (Willemse, 1966) comb. nov., H. insularis (Willemse, 1942) comb. nov., and H. palauensis (Vickery & Kevan, 1999) comb. nov. (from Spinisternum); Heminicsara decipiens (Karny, 1926) comb. nov. and H. griffinii (Karny, 1911) comb. nov. (from Gonatacanthus); Heminicsara novaeguineae (Willemse, 1966) comb. nov. (from Eucoptaspis); Sulasara aethiops (Karny, 1931) comb. nov., S. karnyi (Willemse, 1932) comb. nov., and Sulasara sarasini (Karny, 1931) comb. nov. (from Nicsara); Papuacites nigrifrons (Karny, 1912) comb. nov. and P. nakanaiensis (Naskrecki & Rentz, 2010) comb. nov. (from Anthracites); Paramacroxiphus multispinosa (Bolivar, 1898) comb. nov. (from Nicsara); Palaeoagraecia globiceratus Vickery & Kevan, 1999 comb. nov. (from Macroxiphus). Odontocoryphus pullus Karny, 1907 becomes a new synonym of Macroxiphus sumatranus sumatranus (Haan, 1842). 87 species are described as new: nine species in Axylus: A. brachypterus sp. nov., A. dulang sp. nov., A. furcatus sp. nov., A. mengkoka sp. nov., A. montanus sp. nov., A. negros sp. nov. , A. superior sp. nov., A. totop sp. nov. , A. unicolor sp. nov.; six species in Anthracites: A. bilineatus sp. nov., A. flagellatus sp. nov., A. pyramidalis sp. nov., A. romblon sp. nov., A. sinuatus sp. nov., A. unispinus sp. nov.; four species in Euanthracites: E. bispinus sp. nov., E. eboreus sp. nov., E. ile sp. nov., E. uru sp. nov.; six species in Eucoptaspis: E. adonara sp. nov., E. hexamaculatus sp. nov., E. remotus sp. nov., E. stylatus sp. nov., E. trapezoides sp. nov., E. wawo sp. nov.; eight species in Eulobaspis: E. bacan C.Willemse & Ingrisch sp. nov., E. baduri sp. nov., E. buruensis sp. nov., E. ceramica C.Willemse & Ingrisch sp. nov., E. morotai sp. nov., E. sudirman sp. nov., E. ternate sp. nov., E. variata sp. nov.; 51 species in Heminicsara: H. albatros sp. nov., H. albipuncta sp. nov., H. albogeniculata Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. alticola sp. nov., H. ammea sp. nov., H. anggi sp. nov., H. bilobata sp. nov., H. cingima sp. nov., H. comprima sp. nov., H. coriformis sp. nov., H. corneli sp. nov., H. cyclops sp. nov., H. despecta Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. dilatata sp. nov., H. dividata sp. nov., H. dobo sp. nov., H. elongata Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. furcata sp. nov., H. gibba sp. nov., H. gugusu Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. illugi sp. nov., H. jacobii Karny, 1912, H. jayawijaya sp. nov., H. kelila sp. nov., H. kolombangara sp. nov., H. lamas Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. longiloba sp. nov., H. lord sp. nov., H. malu sp. nov., H. mamberamo sp. nov., H. manus sp. nov., H. montana sp. nov., H. nigra sp. nov., H. nomoensis sp. nov., H. obiensis sp. nov., H. ohu sp. nov., H. pak sp. nov., H. parallela Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. pinniger sp. nov., H. popoman sp. nov., H. rugosa sp. nov., H. scutula sp. nov., H. sica sp. nov., H. sinewit sp. nov., H. siwi sp. nov., H. stylata sp. nov., H. tabtab sp. nov., H. truncata Naskrecki & Ingrisch sp. nov., H. tumulus sp. nov., H. umasani sp. nov., H. wanuma sp. nov., H. zugi sp. nov.; and three species in Sulasara: S. armata sp. nov., S. renschi sp. nov., S. tambu sp. nov.

  20. 77 FR 20526 - Airworthiness Directives; 328 Support Services GmbH Airplanes

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-04-05

    ... directive (AD) for all 328 Support Services GmbH (Type Certificate previously held by AvCraft Aerospace GmbH... GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by AvCraft Aerospace GmbH; Fairchild Dornier GmbH; Dornier... applies to 328 Support Services GmbH (Type Certificate previously held by AvCraft Aerospace GmbH...

  1. Virus-like particles comprising H5, H7 and H9 hemagglutinins elicit protective immunity to heterologous avian influenza viruses in chickens

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Avian influenza (AI) viruses circulating in wild birds pose a serious threat to public health. Human and veterinary vaccines against AI subtypes are needed. Here we prepared triple-subtype VLPs that co-localized H5, H7 and H9 antigens derived from H5N1, H7N3 and H9N2 viruses. VLPs also contained inf...

  2. 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine, redetermined at 120 K: a three-dimensional framework built from N-H...O, N-H...(O)2, N-H...pi(arene) and C-H...O hydrogen bonds.

    PubMed

    Wardell, James L; Low, John N; Glidewell, Christopher

    2006-06-01

    In the title compound, C6H6N4O4, the bond distances indicate significant bond fixation, consistent with charge-separated polar forms. The molecules are almost planar and there is an intramolecular N-H...O hydrogen bond. The molecules are linked into a complex three-dimensional framework structure by a combination of N-H...O, N-H...(O)2, N-H...pi(arene) and C-H...O hydrogen bonds.

  3. Lightcurve Analysis for Eleven Main-belt Asteroids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Polakis, Tom

    2018-04-01

    Synodic rotation periods were determined for eleven main-belt asteroids: 300 Geraldina, 6.847 ± 0.012 h; 597 Bandusia, 7.6636 ± 0.0008 h; 868 Lova, 41.118 ± 0.011 h; 904 Rockefellia, 6.826 ± 0.004 h; 964 Subamara, 6.8695 ± 0.0012 h; 965 Angelica, 26.752 ± 0.035 h; 1105 Fragaria, 5.4312 ± 0.0008 h; 1181 Lilith, 15.033 ± 0.003 h; 1197 Rhodesia, 16.060 ± 0.006 h; 1255 Schilowa, 76.275 ± 0.041 h; and 1883 Rimito, 6.475 ± 0.008 h. All the data have submitted to the ALCDEF database.

  4. Computational Study on the Unimolecular Decomposition of JP-8 Jet Fuel Surrogates III: Butylbenzene Isomers ( n-, s-, and t-C14H10).

    PubMed

    Belisario-Lara, Daniel; Mebel, Alexander M; Kaiser, Ralf I

    2018-04-26

    Ab initio G3(CCSD,MP2)//B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) calculations of potential energy surfaces have been carried out to unravel the mechanism of the initial stages of pyrolysis of three C 10 H 14 isomers: n-, s-, and t-butylbenzenes. The computed energy and molecular parameters have been utilized in RRKM-master equation calculations to predict temperature- and pressure-dependent rate constants and product branching ratios for the primary unimolecular decomposition of these molecules and for the secondary decomposition of their radical fragments. The results showed that the primary dissociation of n-butylbenzene produces mostly benzyl (C 7 H 7 ) + propyl (C 3 H 7 ) and 1-phenyl-2-ethyl (C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 ) + ethyl (C 2 H 5 ), with their relative yields strongly dependent on temperature and pressure, together with a minor amount of 1-phenyl-prop-3-yl (C 9 H 11 ) + methyl (CH 3 ). Secondary decomposition reactions that are anticipated to occur on a nanosecond scale under typical combustion conditions split propyl (C 3 H 7 ) into ethylene (C 2 H 4 ) + methyl (CH 3 ), ethyl (C 2 H 5 ) into ethylene (C 2 H 4 ) + hydrogen (H), 1-phenyl-2-ethyl (C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 ) into mostly styrene (C 8 H 8 ) + hydrogen (H) and to a lesser extent phenyl (C 6 H 5 ) + ethylene (C 2 H 4 ), and 1-phenyl-prop-3-yl (C 9 H 11 ) into predominantly benzyl (C 7 H 7 ) + ethylene (C 2 H 4 ). The primary decomposition of s-butylbenzene is predicted to produce 1-phenyl-1-ethyl (C 6 H 5 CHCH 3 ) + ethyl (C 2 H 5 ) and a minor amount of 1-phenyl-prop-1-yl (C 9 H 11 ) + methyl (CH 3 ), and then 1-phenyl-1-ethyl (C 6 H 5 CHCH 3 ) and 1-phenyl-prop-1-yl (C 9 H 11 ) rapidly dissociate to styrene (C 8 H 8 ) + hydrogen (H) and styrene (C 8 H 8 ) + methyl (CH 3 ), respectively. t-Butylbenzene decomposes nearly exclusively to 2-phenyl-prop-2-yl (C 9 H 11 ) + methyl (CH 3 ), and further, 2-phenyl-prop-2-yl (C 9 H 11 ) rapidly eliminates a hydrogen atom to form 2-phenylpropene (C 9 H 10 ). If hydrogen atoms or other reactive radicals are available to make a direct hydrogen-atom abstraction from butylbenzenes possible, the C 10 H 13 radicals (1-phenyl-but-1-yl, 2-phenyl-but-2-yl, and t-phenyl-isobutyl) can be formed as the primary products from n-, s-, and t-butylbenzene, respectively. The secondary decomposition of 1-phenyl-but-1-yl leads to styrene (C 8 H 8 ) + ethyl (C 2 H 5 ), whereas 2-phenyl-but-2-yl and t-phenyl-isobutyl dissociate to 2-phenylpropene (C 9 H 10 ) + methyl (CH 3 ). Thus, the three butylbenzene isomers produce distinct but overlapping nascent pyrolysis fragments, which likely affect the successive oxidation mechanism and combustion kinetics of these JP-8 fuel components. Temperature- and pressure-dependent rate constants generated for the initial stages of pyrolysis of butylbenzenes are recommended for kinetic modeling.

  5. Interconversion of η3-H2SiRR' σ-complexes and 16-electron silylene complexes via reversible H-H or C-H elimination.

    PubMed

    Lipke, Mark C; Neumeyer, Felix; Tilley, T Don

    2014-04-23

    Solid samples of η(3)-silane complexes [PhBP(Ph)3]RuH(η(3)-H2SiRR') (R,R' = Et2, 1a; PhMe, 1b; Ph2, 1c, MeMes, 1d) decompose when exposed to dynamic vacuum. Gas-phase H2/D2 exchange between isolated, solid samples of 1c-d3 and 1c indicate that a reversible elimination of H2 is the first step in the irreversible decomposition. An efficient solution-phase trap for hydrogen, the 16-electron ruthenium benzyl complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru[η(3)-CH2(3,5-Me2C6H3)] (3) reacts quantitatively with H2 in benzene via elimination of mesitylene to form the η(5)-cyclohexadienyl complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru(η(5)-C6H7) (4). This H2 trapping reaction was utilized to drive forward and quantify the elimination of H2 from 1b,d in solution, which resulted in the decomposition of 1b,d to form 4 and several organosilicon products that could not be identified. Reaction of {[PhBP(Ph)3]Ru(μ-Cl)}2 (2) with (THF)2Li(SiHMes2) forms a new η(3)-H2Si species [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru[CH2(2-(η(3)-H2SiMes)-3,5-Me2C6H2)] (5) which reacts with H2 to form the η(3)-H2SiMes2 complex [PhBP(Ph)3]RuH(η(3)-H2SiMes2) (1e). Complex 1e was identified by NMR spectroscopy prior to its decomposition by elimination of Mes2SiH2 to form 4. DFT calculations indicate that an isomer of 5, the 16-electron silylene complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru(μ-H)(═SiMes2), is only 2 kcal/mol higher in energy than 5. Treatment of 5 with XylNC (Xyl = 2,6-dimethylphenyl) resulted in trapping of [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru(μ-H)(═SiMes2) to form the 18-electron silylene complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru(CNXyl)(μ-H)(═SiMes2) (6). A closely related germylene complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru[CN(2,6-diphenyl-4-MeC6H2)](H)(═GeH(t)Bu) (8) was prepared from reaction of (t)BuGeH3 with the benzyl complex [PhBP(Ph)3]Ru[CN(2,6-diphenyl-4-MeC6H2)][η(1)-CH2(3,5-Me2C6H3)] (7). Single crystal XRD analysis indicated that unlike for 6, the hydride ligand in 8 is a terminal hydride that does not engage in 3c-2e Ru-H → Ge bonding. Complex 1b is an effective precatalyst for the catalytic Ge-H dehydrocoupling of (t)BuGeH3 to form ((t)BuGeH2)2 (85% yield) and H2.

  6. Human H7N9 virus induces a more pronounced pro-inflammatory cytokine but an attenuated interferon response in human bronchial epithelial cells when compared with an epidemiologically-linked chicken H7N9 virus.

    PubMed

    To, Kelvin K W; Lau, Candy C Y; Woo, Patrick C Y; Lau, Susanna K P; Chan, Jasper F W; Chan, Kwok-Hung; Zhang, Anna J X; Chen, Honglin; Yuen, Kwok-Yung

    2016-03-15

    Avian influenza virus H7N9 has jumped species barrier, causing sporadic human infections since 2013. We have previously isolated an H7N9 virus from a patient, and an H7N9 virus from a chicken in a live poultry market where the patient visited during the incubation period. These two viruses were genetically highly similar. This study sought to use a human bronchial epithelial cell line model to infer the virulence of these H7N9 viruses in humans. Human bronchial epithelial cell line Calu-3 was infected with two H7N9 viruses (human H7N9-HU and chicken H7N9-CK), a human H5N1 virus and a human 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus. The infected cell lysate was collected at different time points post-infection for the determination of the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α] and interleukin 6 [IL-6]), anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 10 [IL-10] and transforming growth factor beta [TGF-β]), chemokines (interleukin 8 [IL-8] and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 [MCP-1]), and interferons (interferon β [IFN-β] and interferon lambda 1 [IFNL1]). The viral load in the cell lysate was also measured. Comparison of the human and chicken H7N9 viruses showed that H7N9-HU induced significantly higher levels of TNF-α at 12 h post-infection, and significantly higher levels of IL-8 from 12 to 48 h post-infection than those of H7N9-CK. However, the level of IFNL1 was lower for H7N9-HU than that of H7N9-CK at 48 h post-infection (P < 0.001). H7N9-HU had significantly higher viral loads than H7N9-CK at 3 and 6 h post-infection. H5N1 induced significantly higher levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and MCP-1 than those of H7N9 viruses at 48 h post-infection. Conversely, H1N1 induced lower levels of TNF-α, IL-10, MCP-1, IFNL1 and IFN-β when compared with H7N9 viruses at the same time point. H7N9-HU induced higher levels of pro-inflammatory IL-6 and IL-8 and exhibited a more rapid viral replication than H7N9-CK. However, the level of antiviral IFNL1 was lower for H7N9-HU than H7N9-CK. Our results suggest that the gained properties in modulating human innate immunity by H7N9-HU transformed it to be a more virulent virus in humans than H7N9-CK.

  7. Lack of sleep is associated with internet use for leisure.

    PubMed

    Kim, So Young; Kim, Min-Su; Park, Bumjung; Kim, Jin-Hwan; Choi, Hyo Geun

    2018-01-01

    Previous studies have suggested that excessive internet use may cause lack of sleep. However, recent studies have hypothesized that lack of sleep may instigate internet use for leisure. To elucidate the potential effects of sleep time on internet use, we explored the different associations between sleep time and internet use according to its purpose. The population-based, cross-sectional study group from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey (KYRBWS) collected data from 57,425 middle school students in 2014 and 2015. Sleep time over the past 7 days was classified into the following groups: < 7 h (6 h); ≥ 7 h, < 8 h (7 h); ≥ 8 h, < 9 h (8 h); and ≥ 9 h (9+ h). Internet use time per day was separately surveyed for leisure and for study and categorized as follows: 0 h; > 0 h, ≤ 1 h (1 h); > 1 h, ≤ 2 h (2 h); and > 2 h (2+ h) per day. Information on age, sex, region of residence, body mass index (BMI), economic level, parental education level, stress level, school performance level, and sleep satisfaction were retrieved. The relationships between sleep time and internet use time for leisure/study were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression with complex sampling. In the subgroup analysis according to sleep satisfaction (good, normal, and poor), the associations of sleep time with internet use for leisure were analyzed using the same methods. Compared to 9+ h of sleep, less sleep was related to a long internet use time (2+ h) for leisure (adjusted odds ratio, AOR [95% confidence interval, CI] of sleep: 8 h = 1.23 [1.14-1.32]; 7 h = 1.42 [1.31-1.54]; and 6 h = 1.56 [1.44-1.70]; P < 0.001). Conversely, a relationship between less sleep and a long internet use time (2+ h) for study was evident only for 6 h of sleep (AOR of sleep: 8 h = 0.84 [0.84-1.04]; 7 h = 1.05 [0.94-1.17]; and 6 h = 1.32 [1.27-1.59]; P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis according to sleep satisfaction, less sleep was associated with a long internet use time for leisure in all sleep satisfaction groups, although the relationship was more significant in the lower sleep satisfaction group. Less sleep was significantly related to long-term use of the internet for leisure, whereas this association was not definite for internet use for study. Furthermore, poor sleep quality potentiated the relationship between less sleep time and internet use for leisure.

  8. Isoforms of the major peanut allergen Ara h 2: IgE binding in children with peanut allergy.

    PubMed

    Hales, Belinda J; Bosco, Anthony; Mills, Kristina L; Hazell, Lee A; Loh, Richard; Holt, Patrick G; Thomas, Wayne R

    2004-10-01

    The major peanut allergen Ara h 2 consists of two isoforms, namely Ara h 2.0101 and Ara h 2.0201. The recently identified Ara h 2.0201 isoform contains an extra 12 amino acids including an extra copy of the reported immunodominant epitope DPYSPS. This study aimed to evaluate the IgE binding of the two Ara h 2 isoforms. Ten clones of Ara h 2 were sequenced to assess the relative frequency of the Ara h 2 isoforms and to identify whether there was further variation in the Ara h 2 sequence. IgE binding to Ara h 2.0101 and Ara h 2.0201 was measured for 70 peanut-allergic children using an IgE DELFIA assay to quantitate specific IgE binding. A competition assay was used to measure whether Ara h 2.0201 contained IgE epitopes other than those found for Ara h 2.0101. The original Ara h 2.0101 sequence was found for 6/10 clones and Ara h 2.0201 was found for 2/10 clones. Ara h 2.0201 had the expected insertion of 12 amino acids as well as substitutions at positions 40 (40G) and 142 (142E). Two new isoforms were identified as different polymorphisms of position 142. One Ara h 2.01 clone (Ara h 2.0102) contained 142E and one Ara h 2.02 clone (Ara h 2.0202) contained 142D. A polymorphism that was previously identified by other investigators at position 77 (77Q or 77R) was not found for any of the 10 sequences. Although the level of IgE binding to Ara h 2.0201 of individual patients was frequently higher than the binding to Ara h 2.0101 (p < 0.01), there was a strong correlation in binding to both isoforms (r = 0.987, p < 0.0001) and when analyzed as a group the means were similar. Ara h 2.0101 was not as efficient at blocking reactivity to Ara h 2.0201 indicating there is an additional IgE specificity for the Ara h 2.0201 isoform. Ara h 2.0201 has similar but higher IgE binding than the originally sequenced Ara h 2.0101 isoform and contains other IgE specificities.

  9. Unique Structural Features of Influenza Virus H15 Hemagglutinin

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tzarum, Netanel; McBride, Ryan; Nycholat, Corwin M.

    Influenza A H15 viruses are members of a subgroup (H7-H10-H15) of group 2 hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes that include H7N9 and H10N8 viruses that were isolated from humans during 2013. The isolation of avian H15 viruses is, however, quite rare and, until recently, geographically restricted to wild shorebirds and waterfowl in Australia. The HAs of H15 viruses contain an insertion in the 150-loop (loop beginning at position 150) of the receptor-binding site common to this subgroup and a unique insertion in the 260-loop compared to any other subtype. Here, we show that the H15 HA has a high preference for avianmore » receptor analogs by glycan array analyses. The H15 HA crystal structure reveals that it is structurally closest to H7N9 HA, but the head domain of the H15 trimer is wider than all other HAs due to a tilt and opening of the HA1 subunits of the head domain. The extended 150-loop of the H15 HA retains the conserved conformation as in H7 and H10 HAs. Furthermore, the elongated 260-loop increases the exposed HA surface and can contribute to antigenic variation in H15 HAs. Since avian-origin H15 HA viruses have been shown to cause enhanced disease in mammalian models, further characterization and immune surveillance of H15 viruses are warranted. IMPORTANCEIn the last 2 decades, an apparent increase has been reported for cases of human infection by emerging avian influenza A virus subtypes, including H7N9 and H10N8 viruses isolated during 2013. H15 is the other member of the subgroup of influenza A virus group 2 hemagglutinins (HAs) that also include H7 and H10. H15 viruses have been restricted to Australia, but recent isolation of H15 viruses in western Siberia suggests that they could be spread more globally via the avian flyways that converge and emanate from this region. Here we report on characterization of the three-dimensional structure and receptor specificity of the H15 hemagglutinin, revealing distinct features and specificities that can aid in global surveillance of such viruses for potential spread and emerging threat to the human population.« less

  10. Sequence Variations in the Flagellar Antigen Genes fliC H25 and fliC H28 of Escherichia coli and Their Use in Identification and Characterization of Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) O145:H25 and O145:H28

    PubMed Central

    Beutin, Lothar; Delannoy, Sabine; Fach, Patrick

    2015-01-01

    Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) serogroup O145 is regarded as one of the major EHEC serogroups involved in severe infections in humans. EHEC O145 encompasses motile and non-motile strains of serotypes O145:H25 and O145:H28. Sequencing the fliC-genes associated with the flagellar antigens H25 and H28 revealed the genetic diversity of the fliC H25 and fliC H28 gene sequences in E. coli. Based on allele discrimination of these fliC-genes real-time PCR tests were designed for identification of EHEC O145:H25 and O145:H28. The fliC H25 genes present in O145:H25 were found to be very similar to those present in E. coli serogroups O2, O100, O165, O172 and O177 pointing to their common evolution but were different from fliC H25 genes of a multiple number of other E. coli serotypes. In a similar way, EHEC O145:H28 harbor a characteristic fliC H28 allele which, apart from EHEC O145:H28, was only found in enteropathogenic (EPEC) O28:H28 strains that shared some common traits with EHEC O145:H28. The real time PCR-assays targeting these fliC H25[O145] and fliC H28[O145] alleles allow better characterization of EHEC O145:H25 and EHEC O145:H28. Evaluation of these PCR assays in spiked ready-to eat salad samples resulted in specific detection of both types of EHEC O145 strains even when low spiking levels of 1–10 cfu/g were used. Furthermore these PCR assays allowed identification of non-motile E. coli strains which are serologically not typable for their H-antigens. The combined use of O-antigen genotyping (O145wzy) and detection of the respective fliC H25[O145] and fliC H28[O145] allele types contributes to improve identification and molecular serotyping of E. coli O145 isolates. PMID:26000885

  11. Crystal structure, complexation, spectroscopic characterization and antimicrobial evaluation of 3,4-dihydroxybenzylidene isonicotinyl-hydrazone

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jeragh, Bakir; Ali, Mayada S.; El-Asmy, Ahmed A.

    2015-06-01

    A single crystal of 3,4-dihydroxybenzylidene isonicotinylhydrazone, HBINH, has been grown and solved by X-ray crystallography. The VO2+, Zr4+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+ and Pd2+ complexes of HBINH have been prepared and spectroscopically characterized. The data confirmed the formulae [Co(HBINH)(H2O)Cl]Cl·H2O, [Pd(HBINH)Cl2], [Zn(HBINH)2Cl2], [Cd(HBINH)(H2O)2Cl2]·1½H2O, [(VO)2(HBINH-3H)(OH)(H2O)], [Ni2(HBINH)(H2O)6Cl2]Cl2, [Cu2(HBINH-3H)(H2O)2(OAc)]·3H2O, [Zr2(HBINH-3H)Cl4]Cl, [Hg2(HBINH)Cl4] and the dimer {[Cu(HBINH)Cl]Cl}2. Most of the complexes have intense colors and high melting points and some are electrolytes in DMSO solution. The ligand behaves as a neutral bidentate in the Co(II), Cu(II), Pd(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes; dibasic tetradentate in [Ni2(HBINH)(H2O)6Cl2]Cl2 and tribasic tetradentate in [Cu2(HBINH-3H)(OAc)]·5H2O, [(VO)2(HBINH-3H)(OH)(H2O)] and [Zr2(HBINH-3H)Cl4]Cl by the loss of 3H+ due to the deprotonation of the two hydroxyl groups and the enolization of the amide (Odbnd CNH) group. A tetrahedral geometry was proposed for the Co(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Hg(II) complexes; square-planar for the Pd(II) complex; square-pyramid for the VO2+ complex and octahedral for the Ni(II) and Cd(II) complexes. The complexes [Cd(HBINH)(H2O)2Cl2]·1½H2O, [(VO)2(HBINH-3H)(OH)(H2O)] and [Cu2(HBINH-3H)-(H2O)2(OAc)]·3H2O have activities against Bacillus sp. M3010, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Slamonella sp. PA393.

  12. Rate Coefficients of C2H with C2H4, C2H6, and H2 from 150 to 359 K

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Opansky, Brian J.; Leone, Stephen R.

    1996-01-01

    Rate coefficients for the reactions C2H with C2H4, C2H6, and H2 are measured over the temperature range 150-359 K using transient infrared laser absorption spectroscopy. The ethynyl radical is formed by photolysis of C2H2 with a pulsed excimer laser at 193 nm, and its transient absorption is monitored with a color center laser on the Q(sub 11)(9) line of the A(sup 2) Pi-Chi(sup 2) Sigma transition at 3593.68 cm(exp -1). Over the experimental temperature range 150-359 K the rate constants of C2H with C2H4, C2H6, and H2 can be fitted to the Arrhenius expressions k(sub C2H4) = (7.8 +/- 0.6) x 10(exp -11) exp[(134 +/- 44)/T], k(sub C2H6) = (3.5 +/- 0.3) x 10(exp -11) exp[(2.9 +/- 16)/T], and k(sub H2) = (1.2 +/- 0.3) x 10(exp -11) exp[(-998 +/- 57)]/T cm(exp 3) molecule(exp -1) sec(exp -1). The data for C2H with C2H4 and C2H6 indicate a negligible activation energy to product formation shown by the mild negative temperature dependence of both reactions. When the H2 data are plotted together with the most recent high-temperature results from 295 to 854 K, a slight curvature is observed. The H2 data can be fit to the non-Arrhenius form k(sub H2) = 9.2 x 10(exp -18) T(sup 2.17 +/- 0.50) exp[(-478 +/- 165)/T] cm(exp 3) molecules(exp -1) sec(exp -1). The curvature in the Arrhenius plot is discussed in terms of both quantum mechanical tunneling of the H atom from H2 to the C2H radical and bending mode contributions to the partition function.

  13. Contribution of cysteine residues to the structure and function of herpes simplex virus gH/gL

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cairns, Tina M.; Landsburg, Daniel J.; Charles Whitbeck, J.

    2005-02-20

    In HSV types 1 and 2, gH forms a noncovalent heterodimer with gL. Previous studies demonstrated that the first 323 amino acids of gH1 and the first 161 amino acids of gL1 are sufficient for gH/gL binding. For gL1, substitution of any of its four cysteine (C) residues (all located within the gH/gL binding region) destroyed gH binding and function. Although gH1 contains 8 cysteines in its ectodomain, gH 2 contains 7 (C3 of gH1 is replaced by arginine in gH2). We found that mutation of any of the four C-terminal cysteines led to a reduction or loss of gH/gLmore » function. Mutation of C5 or C6 in gH1 or gH2 rendered the proteins non-functional. However, substitution of C7 and/or C8 in gH1 has a definite negative impact on cell-cell fusion, although these mutations had less effect on complementation. Remarkably, all four gH1 N-terminal cysteines could be mutated simultaneously with little effect on fusion or complementation. As gH2 already lacks C3, we constructed a triple mutant (gH2-C1/2/4) which exhibited a similar phenotype. Since gH1 is known to bind gL2 and vice versa, we wondered whether binding of gH2 to the heterologous gL1 would enhance the fusion defect seen with the gH2-C2 mutant. The combination of mutant gH2-C2 with wild-type gL1 was nonfunctional in a cell-cell fusion assay. Interestingly, the reciprocal was not true, as gH1-C2 could utilize both gL1 and gL2. These findings suggest that there is a structural difference in the gH2 N-terminus as compared to gH1. We also present genetic evidence for at least one disulfide bond within gH2, between cysteines 2 and 4.« less

  14. Carbon-Hydrogen Activation in Zerovalent Bis(1,5-cyclooctadiene) Complexes of the First Row Transition Metals: A Theoretical Study.

    PubMed

    Hu, Jia; Feng, Hao; Xie, Yaoming; King, R Bruce; Schaefer, Henry F

    2018-03-29

    Stepwise interaction of first row transition metal atoms with 1,5-cyclooctadiene to give (C 8 H 12 ) 2 M complexes is studied using the M06-L/DZP density functional method. The experimentally known (C 8 H 12 ) 2 Ni is the thermodynamically most favorable complex, with a predicted geometry consistent with its experimental structure as determined by X-ray crystallography. The other transition metal atoms from scandium to zinc also interact exothermically with 1,5-cyclooctadiene to give (C 8 H 12 ) 2 M derivatives, but these exhibit lower symmetry than the S 4 symmetry exhibited by (C 8 H 12 ) 2 Ni. Carbon-hydrogen activation of CH 2 groups in a C 8 H 12 ligand is predicted for most systems. Thus, conversion of (η 2,2 -C 8 H 12 ) 2 M to (η 3,2 -C 8 H 11 )(η 2,1 -C 8 H 13 )M, through a hydride intermediate (η 3,2 -C 8 H 11 )(η 2,2 -C 8 H 12 )MH, is predicted for scandium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, and cobalt. For titanium with a low-lying empty orbital, further C-H activation through a hydride intermediate (η 6 -C 8 H 10 )(η 2,1 -C 8 H 13 )TiH is predicted, leading ultimately to (η 6 -C 8 H 10 )(η 1,1 -C 8 H 14 )Ti, in which the hexahapto η 6 -C 8 H 10 ligand is shown by NICS to be aromatic. These two C-H activation processes on a titanium center represent the dehydrogenation of 1,5-cyclooctadiene to 1,3,5-cyclooctatriene with the second 1,5-cyclooctadiene ligand as the hydrogen acceptor. For zinc C-H activation terminates at (η 1 -C 8 H 11 )(C 8 H 12 )ZnH, which has a C-Zn-H three-center bond. No energetically favorable C-H activation processes are predicted for the iron, nickel, and copper (η 2,2 -C 8 H 12 ) 2 M derivatives.

  15. Regulating NETosis: Increasing pH Promotes NADPH Oxidase-Dependent NETosis.

    PubMed

    Khan, Meraj A; Philip, Lijy M; Cheung, Guillaume; Vadakepeedika, Shawn; Grasemann, Hartmut; Sweezey, Neil; Palaniyar, Nades

    2018-01-01

    Neutrophils migrating from the blood (pH 7.35-7.45) into the surrounding tissues encounter changes in extracellular pH (pH e ) conditions. Upon activation of NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox), neutrophils generate large amounts of H + ions reducing the intracellular pH (pH i ). Nevertheless, how extracellular pH regulates neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation (NETosis) is not clearly established. We hypothesized that increasing pH increases Nox-mediated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neutrophil protease activity, stimulating NETosis. Here, we found that raising pH e (ranging from 6.6 to 7.8; every 0.2 units) increased pH i of both activated and resting neutrophils within 10-20 min (Seminaphtharhodafluor dual fluorescence measurements). Since Nox activity generates H + ions, pH i is lower in neutrophils that are activated compared to resting. We also found that higher pH stimulated Nox-dependent ROS production (R123 generation; flow cytometry, plate reader assay, and imaging) during spontaneous and phorbol myristate acetate-induced NETosis (Sytox Green assays, immunoconfocal microscopy, and quantifying NETs). In neutrophils that are activated and not resting, higher pH stimulated histone H4 cleavage (Western blots) and NETosis. Raising pH increased Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide-, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative)-, and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive)-induced NETosis. Thus, higher pH e promoted Nox-dependent ROS production, protease activity, and NETosis; lower pH has the opposite effect. These studies provided mechanistic steps of pH e -mediated regulation of Nox-dependent NETosis. Raising pH either by sodium bicarbonate or Tris base (clinically known as Tris hydroxymethyl aminomethane, tromethamine, or THAM) increases NETosis. Each Tris molecule can bind 3H + ions, whereas each bicarbonate HCO3 - ion binds 1H + ion. Therefore, the amount of Tris solution required to cause the same increase in pH level is less than that of equimolar bicarbonate solution. For that reason, regulating NETosis by pH with specific buffers such as THAM could be more effective than bicarbonate in managing NET-related diseases.

  16. Specific Detection of Enteroaggregative Hemorrhagic Escherichia coli O104:H4 Strains by Use of the CRISPR Locus as a Target for a Diagnostic Real-Time PCR

    PubMed Central

    Delannoy, Sabine; Beutin, Lothar; Burgos, Ylanna

    2012-01-01

    In 2011, a large outbreak of an unusual bacterial strain occurred in Europe. This strain was characterized as a hybrid of an enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) and a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strain of the serotype O104:H4. Here, we present a single PCR targeting the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats locus of E. coli O104:H4 (CRISPRO104:H4) for specific detection of EAEC STEC O104:H4 strains from different geographical locations and time periods. The specificity of the CRISPRO104:H4 PCR was investigated using 1,321 E. coli strains, including reference strains for E. coli O serogroups O1 to O186 and flagellar (H) types H1 to H56. The assay was compared for specificity using PCR assays targeting different O104 antigen-encoding genes (wbwCO104, wzxO104, and wzyO104). The PCR assays reacted with all types of E. coli O104 strains (O104:H2, O104:H4, O104:H7, and O104:H21) and with E. coli O8 and O9 strains carrying the K9 capsular antigen and were therefore not specific for detection of the EAEC STEC O104:H4 type. A single PCR developed for the CRISPRO104:H4 target was sufficient for specific identification and detection of the 48 tested EAEC STEC O104:H4 strains. The 35 E. coli O104 strains expressing H types other than H4 as well as 8 E. coli strains carrying a K9 capsular antigen tested all negative for the CRISPRO104:H4 locus. Only 12 (0.94%) of the 1,273 non-O104:H4 E. coli strains (serotypes Ont:H2, O43:H2, O141:H2, and O174:H2) reacted positive in the CRISPRO104:H4 PCR (99.06% specificity). PMID:22895033

  17. Acid and Base Stress and Transcriptomic Responses in Bacillus subtilis▿†

    PubMed Central

    Wilks, Jessica C.; Kitko, Ryan D.; Cleeton, Sarah H.; Lee, Grace E.; Ugwu, Chinagozi S.; Jones, Brian D.; BonDurant, Sandra S.; Slonczewski, Joan L.

    2009-01-01

    Acid and base environmental stress responses were investigated in Bacillus subtilis. B. subtilis AG174 cultures in buffered potassium-modified Luria broth were switched from pH 8.5 to pH 6.0 and recovered growth rapidly, whereas cultures switched from pH 6.0 to pH 8.5 showed a long lag time. Log-phase cultures at pH 6.0 survived 60 to 100% at pH 4.5, whereas cells grown at pH 7.0 survived <15%. Cells grown at pH 9.0 survived 40 to 100% at pH 10, whereas cells grown at pH 7.0 survived <5%. Thus, growth in a moderate acid or base induced adaptation to a more extreme acid or base, respectively. Expression indices from Affymetrix chip hybridization were obtained for 4,095 protein-encoding open reading frames of B. subtilis grown at external pH 6, pH 7, and pH 9. Growth at pH 6 upregulated acetoin production (alsDS), dehydrogenases (adhA, ald, fdhD, and gabD), and decarboxylases (psd and speA). Acid upregulated malate metabolism (maeN), metal export (czcDO and cadA), oxidative stress (catalase katA; OYE family namA), and the SigX extracytoplasmic stress regulon. Growth at pH 9 upregulated arginine catabolism (roc), which generates organic acids, glutamate synthase (gltAB), polyamine acetylation and transport (blt), the K+/H+ antiporter (yhaTU), and cytochrome oxidoreductases (cyd, ctaACE, and qcrC). The SigH, SigL, and SigW regulons were upregulated at high pH. Overall, greater genetic adaptation was seen at pH 9 than at pH 6, which may explain the lag time required for growth shift to high pH. Low external pH favored dehydrogenases and decarboxylases that may consume acids and generate basic amines, whereas high external pH favored catabolism-generating acids. PMID:19114526

  18. Cytoplasmic pH Response to Acid Stress in Individual Cells of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis Observed by Fluorescence Ratio Imaging Microscopy

    PubMed Central

    Martinez, Keith A.; Kitko, Ryan D.; Mershon, J. Patrick; Adcox, Haley E.; Malek, Kotiba A.; Berkmen, Melanie B.

    2012-01-01

    The ability of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis to regulate their cytoplasmic pH is well studied in cell suspensions but is poorly understood in individual adherent cells and biofilms. We observed the cytoplasmic pH of individual cells using ratiometric pHluorin. A standard curve equating the fluorescence ratio with pH was obtained by perfusion at a range of external pH 5.0 to 9.0, with uncouplers that collapse the transmembrane pH difference. Adherent cells were acid stressed by switching the perfusion medium from pH 7.5 to pH 5.5. The E. coli cytoplasmic pH fell to a value that varied among individual cells (range of pH 6.2 to 6.8), but a majority of cells recovered (to pH 7.0 to 7.5) within 2 min. In an E. coli biofilm, cells shifted from pH 7.5 to pH 5.5 failed to recover cytoplasmic pH. Following a smaller shift (from pH 7.5 to pH 6.0), most biofilm cells recovered fully, although the pH decreased further than that of isolated adherent cells, and recovery took longer (7 min or longer). Some biofilm cells began to recover pH and then failed, a response not seen in isolated cells. B. subtilis cells were acid shifted from pH 7.5 to pH 6.0. In B. subtilis, unlike the case with E. coli, cytoplasmic pH showed no “overshoot” but fell to a level that was maintained. This level of cytoplasmic pH post-acid shift varied among individual B. subtilis cells (range of pH, 7.0 to 7.7). Overall, the cytoplasmic pHs of individual bacteria show important variation in the acid stress response, including novel responses in biofilms. PMID:22427503

  19. Cytoplasmic pH response to acid stress in individual cells of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis observed by fluorescence ratio imaging microscopy.

    PubMed

    Martinez, Keith A; Kitko, Ryan D; Mershon, J Patrick; Adcox, Haley E; Malek, Kotiba A; Berkmen, Melanie B; Slonczewski, Joan L

    2012-05-01

    The ability of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis to regulate their cytoplasmic pH is well studied in cell suspensions but is poorly understood in individual adherent cells and biofilms. We observed the cytoplasmic pH of individual cells using ratiometric pHluorin. A standard curve equating the fluorescence ratio with pH was obtained by perfusion at a range of external pH 5.0 to 9.0, with uncouplers that collapse the transmembrane pH difference. Adherent cells were acid stressed by switching the perfusion medium from pH 7.5 to pH 5.5. The E. coli cytoplasmic pH fell to a value that varied among individual cells (range of pH 6.2 to 6.8), but a majority of cells recovered (to pH 7.0 to 7.5) within 2 min. In an E. coli biofilm, cells shifted from pH 7.5 to pH 5.5 failed to recover cytoplasmic pH. Following a smaller shift (from pH 7.5 to pH 6.0), most biofilm cells recovered fully, although the pH decreased further than that of isolated adherent cells, and recovery took longer (7 min or longer). Some biofilm cells began to recover pH and then failed, a response not seen in isolated cells. B. subtilis cells were acid shifted from pH 7.5 to pH 6.0. In B. subtilis, unlike the case with E. coli, cytoplasmic pH showed no "overshoot" but fell to a level that was maintained. This level of cytoplasmic pH post-acid shift varied among individual B. subtilis cells (range of pH, 7.0 to 7.7). Overall, the cytoplasmic pHs of individual bacteria show important variation in the acid stress response, including novel responses in biofilms.

  20. Acid and base stress and transcriptomic responses in Bacillus subtilis.

    PubMed

    Wilks, Jessica C; Kitko, Ryan D; Cleeton, Sarah H; Lee, Grace E; Ugwu, Chinagozi S; Jones, Brian D; BonDurant, Sandra S; Slonczewski, Joan L

    2009-02-01

    Acid and base environmental stress responses were investigated in Bacillus subtilis. B. subtilis AG174 cultures in buffered potassium-modified Luria broth were switched from pH 8.5 to pH 6.0 and recovered growth rapidly, whereas cultures switched from pH 6.0 to pH 8.5 showed a long lag time. Log-phase cultures at pH 6.0 survived 60 to 100% at pH 4.5, whereas cells grown at pH 7.0 survived <15%. Cells grown at pH 9.0 survived 40 to 100% at pH 10, whereas cells grown at pH 7.0 survived <5%. Thus, growth in a moderate acid or base induced adaptation to a more extreme acid or base, respectively. Expression indices from Affymetrix chip hybridization were obtained for 4,095 protein-encoding open reading frames of B. subtilis grown at external pH 6, pH 7, and pH 9. Growth at pH 6 upregulated acetoin production (alsDS), dehydrogenases (adhA, ald, fdhD, and gabD), and decarboxylases (psd and speA). Acid upregulated malate metabolism (maeN), metal export (czcDO and cadA), oxidative stress (catalase katA; OYE family namA), and the SigX extracytoplasmic stress regulon. Growth at pH 9 upregulated arginine catabolism (roc), which generates organic acids, glutamate synthase (gltAB), polyamine acetylation and transport (blt), the K(+)/H(+) antiporter (yhaTU), and cytochrome oxidoreductases (cyd, ctaACE, and qcrC). The SigH, SigL, and SigW regulons were upregulated at high pH. Overall, greater genetic adaptation was seen at pH 9 than at pH 6, which may explain the lag time required for growth shift to high pH. Low external pH favored dehydrogenases and decarboxylases that may consume acids and generate basic amines, whereas high external pH favored catabolism-generating acids.

  1. Life at acidic pH imposes an increased energetic cost for a eukaryotic acidophile.

    PubMed

    Messerli, Mark A; Amaral-Zettler, Linda A; Zettler, Erik; Jung, Sung-Kwon; Smith, Peter J S; Sogin, Mitchell L

    2005-07-01

    Organisms growing in acidic environments, pH<3, would be expected to possess fundamentally different molecular structures and physiological controls in comparison with similar species restricted to neutral pH. We begin to investigate this premise by determining the magnitude of the transmembrane electrochemical H+ gradient in an acidophilic Chlamydomonas sp. (ATCC PRA-125) isolated from the Rio Tinto, a heavy metal laden, acidic river (pH 1.7-2.5). This acidophile grows most rapidly at pH 2 but is capable of growth over a wide pH range (1.5-7.0), while Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is restricted to growth at pH>or=3 with optimal growth between pH 5.5 and 8.5. With the fluorescent H+ indicator, 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF), we show that the acidophilic Chlamydomonas maintains an average cytosolic pH of 6.6 in culture medium at both pH 2 and pH 7 while Chlamydomonas reinhardtii maintains an average cytosolic pH of 7.1 in pH 7 culture medium. The transmembrane electric potential difference of Chlamydomonas sp., measured using intracellular electrodes at both pH 2 and 7, is close to 0 mV, a rare value for plants, animals and protists. The 40,000-fold difference in [H+] could be the result of either active or passive mechanisms. Evidence for active maintenance was detected by monitoring the rate of ATP consumption. At the peak, cells consume about 7% more ATP per second in medium at pH 2 than at pH 7. This increased rate of consumption is sufficient to account for removal of H+ entering the cytosol across a membrane with relatively high permeability to H+ (7x10(-8) cm s-1). Our results indicate that the small increase in the rate of ATP consumption can account for maintenance of the transmembrane H+ gradient without the imposition of cell surface H+ barriers.

  2. Live attenuated H5N1 vaccine with H9N2 internal genes protects chickens from infections by both Highly Pathogenic H5N1 and H9N2 Influenza Viruses

    PubMed Central

    Nang, Nguyen Tai; Song, Byung Min; Kang, Young Myong; Kim, Heui Man; Kim, Hyun Soo; Seo, Sang Heui

    2012-01-01

    Please cite this paper as: Nang et al. (2013) Live attenuated H5N1 vaccine with H9N2 internal genes protects chickens from infections by both Highly Pathogenic H5N1 and H9N2 Influenza Viruses. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 7(2) 120–131. Background  The highly pathogenic H5N1 and H9N2 influenza viruses are endemic in many countries around the world and have caused considerable economic loss to the poultry industry. Objectives  We aimed to study whether a live attenuated H5N1 vaccine comprising internal genes from a cold‐adapted H9N2 influenza virus could protect chickens from infection by both H5N1 and H9N2 viruses. Methods  We developed a cold‐adapted H9N2 vaccine virus expressing hemagglutinin and neuraminidase derived from the highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza virus using reverse genetics. Results and Conclusions  Chickens immunized with the vaccine were protected from lethal infections with homologous and heterologous H5N1 or H9N2 influenza viruses. Specific antibody against H5N1 virus was detected up to 11 weeks after vaccination (the endpoint of this study). In vaccinated chickens, IgA and IgG antibody subtypes were induced in lung and intestinal tissue, and CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes expressing interferon‐gamma were induced in the splenocytes. These data suggest that a live attenuated H5N1 vaccine with cold‐adapted H9N2 internal genes can protect chickens from infection with H5N1 and H9N2 influenza viruses by eliciting humoral and cellular immunity. PMID:22487301

  3. Optimization of urinary dipstick pH: Are multiple dipstick pH readings reliably comparable to commercial 24-hour urinary pH?

    PubMed

    Abbott, Joel E; Miller, Daniel L; Shi, William; Wenzler, David; Elkhoury, Fuad F; Patel, Nishant D; Sur, Roger L

    2017-09-01

    Accurate measurement of pH is necessary to guide medical management of nephrolithiasis. Urinary dipsticks offer a convenient method to measure pH, but prior studies have only assessed the accuracy of a single, spot dipstick. Given the known diurnal variation in pH, a single dipstick pH is unlikely to reflect the average daily urinary pH. Our goal was to determine whether multiple dipstick pH readings would be reliably comparable to pH from a 24-hour urine analysis. Kidney stone patients undergoing a 24-hour urine collection were enrolled and took images of dipsticks from their first 3 voids concurrently with the 24-hour collection. Images were sent to and read by a study investigator. The individual and mean pH from the dipsticks were compared to the 24-hour urine pH and considered to be accurate if the dipstick readings were within 0.5 of the 24-hour urine pH. The Bland-Altman test of agreement was used to further compare dipstick pH relative to 24-hour urine pH. Fifty-nine percent of patients had mean urinary pH values within 0.5 pH units of their 24-hour urine pH. Bland-Altman analysis showed a mean difference between dipstick pH and 24-hour urine pH of -0.22, with an upper limit of agreement of 1.02 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-1.59) and a lower limit of agreement of -1.47 (95% CI, -2.04 to -0.90). We concluded that urinary dipstick based pH measurement lacks the precision required to guide medical management of nephrolithiasis and physicians should use 24-hour urine analysis to base their metabolic therapy.

  4. Real-time pH monitoring of industrially relevant enzymatic reactions in a microfluidic side-entry reactor (μSER) shows potential for pH control.

    PubMed

    Gruber, Pia; Marques, Marco P C; Sulzer, Philipp; Wohlgemuth, Roland; Mayr, Torsten; Baganz, Frank; Szita, Nicolas

    2017-06-01

    Monitoring and control of pH is essential for the control of reaction conditions and reaction progress for any biocatalytic or biotechnological process. Microfluidic enzymatic reactors are increasingly proposed for process development, however typically lack instrumentation, such as pH monitoring. We present a microfluidic side-entry reactor (μSER) and demonstrate for the first time real-time pH monitoring of the progression of an enzymatic reaction in a microfluidic reactor as a first step towards achieving pH control. Two different types of optical pH sensors were integrated at several positions in the reactor channel which enabled pH monitoring between pH 3.5 and pH 8.5, thus a broader range than typically reported. The sensors withstood the thermal bonding temperatures typical of microfluidic device fabrication. Additionally, fluidic inputs along the reaction channel were implemented to adjust the pH of the reaction. Time-course profiles of pH were recorded for a transketolase and a penicillin G acylase catalyzed reaction. Without pH adjustment, the former showed a pH increase of 1 pH unit and the latter a pH decrease of about 2.5 pH units. With pH adjustment, the pH drop of the penicillin G acylase catalyzed reaction was significantly attenuated, the reaction condition kept at a pH suitable for the operation of the enzyme, and the product yield increased. This contribution represents a further step towards fully instrumented and controlled microfluidic reactors for biocatalytic process development. © 2017 The Authors. Biotechnology Journal published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  5. Biological Characterizations of H5Nx Avian Influenza Viruses Embodying Different Neuraminidases

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Yuandi; Zhang, Zaoyue; Li, Huanan; Wang, Xiuhui; Li, Bo; Ren, Xingxing; Zeng, Zhaoyong; Zhang, Xu; Liu, Shukai; Hu, Pingsheng; Qi, Wenbao; Liao, Ming

    2017-01-01

    The H5 subtype virus of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus has caused huge economic losses to the poultry industry and is a threat to human health. Until 2010, H5N1 subtype virus was the major genotype in China. Since 2011, reassortant H5N2, H5N6, and H5N8 viruses were identified in domestic poultry in China. The clade 2.3.4.4 H5N6 and H5N8 AIV has now spread to most of China. Clade 2.3.4.4 H5N6 virus has caused 17 human deaths. However, the prevalence, pathogenicity, and transmissibility of the distinct NA reassortment with H5 subtypes viruses (H5Nx) is unknown. We constructed five clade 2.3.4.4 reassortant H5Nx viruses that shared the same HA and six internal gene segments. The NA gene segment was replaced with N1, N2, N6, ΔN6 (with an 11 amino acid deletion at the 58th to 68th of NA stalk region), and N8 strains, respectively. The reassortant viruses with distinct NAs of clade 2.3.4.4 H5 subtype had different degrees of fitness. All reassortant H5Nx viruses formed plaques on MDCK cell monolayers, but the ΔH5N6 grew more efficiently in mammalian and avian cells. The reassortant H5Nx viruses were more virulent in mice as compared to the H5N2 virus. The H5N6 and H5N8 reassortant viruses exhibited enhanced pathogenicity and transmissibility in chickens as compared to the H5N1 reassortant virus. We suggest that comprehensive surveillance work should be undertaken to monitor the H5Nx viruses. PMID:28659898

  6. Urine reference intervals for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) isoforms by immunoextraction-tandem mass spectrometry to detect hCG use.

    PubMed

    Butch, Anthony W; Ahrens, Brian D; Avliyakulov, Nuraly K

    2017-11-03

    Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulates testosterone production by the testicles and can normalize suppressed testosterone concentrations in males following prolonged anabolic steroid use. Because of the potential for abuse by males, hCG is on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) list of prohibited substances. The majority of WADA-accredited laboratories measure urinary hCG using an automated immunoassay. Only immunoassays that recognize the intact alpha and beta heterodimer of hCG (intact hCG) should be used to measure urinary hCG for doping control purposes since intact hCG is the only biologically active molecule. WADA further requires that confirmation testing is performed using an intact hCG immunoassay that is different from the one used in the initial testing procedure or by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In this study we measured the concentration of intact hCG, free β-subunit (hCGβ) and β-subunit core fragment (hCGβcf) in 570, 275, and 256 male urine samples, respectively, by an immunoextraction LC-MS/MS method. Mean concentrations of intact hCG, hCGβ and hCGβcf were 0.04 IU/L, 0.47 pmol/L and 0.16 pmol/L, respectively. The upper reference limits (97.5 th percentile) for intact hCG, hCGβ and hCGβcf were 0.21 IU/L, 0.40 pmol/L, and 1.86 pmol/L, respectively. Based on these data, we recommend a threshold of 1.0 IU/L for intact hCG (false positive rate of <1 in 10 000) for detecting male athletes that dope with hCG. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  7. Effects of cetrorelix, a GnRH-receptor antagonist, on gonadal axis in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea.

    PubMed

    Berardelli, Rita; Gianotti, Laura; Karamouzis, Ioannis; Picu, Andreea; Giordano, Roberta; D'Angelo, Valentina; Zinnà, Domenico; Lanfranco, Fabio; Ghigo, Ezio; Arvat, Emanuela

    2011-10-01

    Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) antagonists (GnRHa) suppress gonadotropin and sex-steroid secretion. In normal women, acute GnRHa administration induces inhibitory effect on pituitary-gonadal axis, followed by Luteinizing Hormone (LH) rebound. Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) is characterised by impaired gonadotropin secretion and hypogonadism secondary to blunted GnRH pulsatility. We studied the effects of a GnRHa, cetrorelix (CTX 3.0 mg), in six women with HA (age 30.7 ± 3.2 years; BMI 21.5 ± 1.7 kg/m(2)) and six control subjects (CS, 28.2 ± 0.6 years; 22.6 ± 0.9 kg/m(2)) on LH, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and oestradiol levels over 4 h (08.00-12.00 am) before, +24 h and +96 h after CTX; LH, FSH, and oestradiol were also evaluated at +6, +8, +12, +48, +72 h after CTX. CS: CTX reduced (p < 0.05) LH, FSH, and oestradiol (nadir at +12 h, +24 h, and +24 h); LH rebounded at +96 h, FSH and oestradiol recovered at +48 h and +72 h. The 4-h evaluation showed LH and FSH reduction (p < 0.05) at +24 h, with LH rebound at +96 h. HA: CTX reduced (p < 0.05) LH, FSH, and oestradiol, (nadir at +24 h, +48 h, and +48 h, recovery at +48 h, +72 h, and +96 h). The 4-h evaluation showed gonadotropin reduction (p < 0.05) 24 h after CTX, without any rebound effect. One single CTX dose still modulates gonadotropin secretion in HA. Its 'paradoxical' stimulatory effect on gonadotropins needs to be verified after prolonged administration.

  8. Pharmacological characterization of the inhibitory activity of beta h-endorphin (beta h-EP), [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP, [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2, in the neuroeffector junction of the mouse vas deferens.

    PubMed

    Valenzuela, R; Li, C H; Huidobro-Toro, J P

    1991-08-01

    The inhibitory opioid activities of beta h-endorphin (beta h-EP), its structurally related peptide analogues [Gln8,Gly31]-beta h-EP-Gly-Gly-NH2 (Gly-Gly-beta h-EP), [Arg9,19,24,28,29]-beta h-EP (Arg-beta h-EP) and methionine enkephalin have been examined in the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens bioassay. All four peptides behaved as full agonists; methionine enkephalin was the most potent followed by Arg-beta h-EP, beta h-EP and Gly-Gly-beta h-EP. Neither Gly-Gly-beta h-EP nor Arg-beta h-EP antagonized the inhibitory action of beta h-EP or methionine enkephalin. An hour of tissue exposure to 30 nM beta-funaltrexamine followed by thorough washing, displaced to the right, in a parallel fashion, the concentration-response curves of beta h-EP and analogues. Whereas the displacement of the concentration response curves was 8 to 10-fold for beta h-EP and Arg-beta h-EP, it was only about 3-fold for Gly-Gly-beta h-EP and methionine enkephalin. Naltrindole was the most potent antagonist of methionine enkephalin with an apparent pA2 of 9.4; its potency as an antagonist of beta h-EP and related analogues was approximately one-tenth of this with pA2 values approximately 8.5. Norbinaltorphimine also antagonized the action of the opioid peptides with pA2 values close to 7.8.

  9. Structurally characterized 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidine solvated magnesium aryloxide complexes: [Mg(mu-OEt)(DBP)(H-TMG)]2, [Mg(mu-OBc)(DBP)(H-TMG)]2, [Mg(mu-TMBA)(DBP)(H-TMG)]2, [Mg(mu-DPP)(DBP)(H-TMG)]2, [Mg(BMP)2(H-TMG)2], [Mg(O-2,6-Ph2C6H3)2 (H-TMG)2].

    PubMed

    Monegan, Jessie D; Bunge, Scott D

    2009-04-06

    The synthesis and structural characterization of several 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidine (H-TMG) solvated magnesium aryloxide complexes are reported. Bu(2)Mg was successfully reacted with H-TMG, HOC(6)H(3)(CMe(3))(2)-2,6 (H-DBP), and either ethanol, a carboxylic acid, or diphenyl phosphate in a 1:1 ratio to yield the corresponding [Mg(mu-L)(DBP)(H-TMG)](2) where L = OCH(2)CH(3) (OEt, 1), O(2)CC(CH(3))(3) (OBc, 2), O(2)C(C(6)H(2)-2,4,6-(CH(3))(3)) (TMBA, 3), or O(2)P(OC(6)H(5))(2) (DPP, 4). Bu(2)Mg was also reacted with two equivalents of H-TMG and HOC(6)H(3)(CMe(3))-2-(CH(3))-6 (BMP) or HO-2,6-Ph(2)C(6)H(3) to yield [Mg(BMP)(2)(H-TMG)(2)] (5) and [Mg(O-2,6-Ph(2)C(6)H(3))(2)(H-TMG)(2)] (6). Compounds 1-6 were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Polymerization of l- and rac-lactide with 1 was found to generate polylactide (PLA). A discussion concerning the relevance of compounds 2 - 4 to the structure of Mg-activated phosphatase enzymes is also provided. The bulk powders for all complexes were found to be in agreement with the crystal structures based on elemental analyses, FT-IR spectroscopy, and (1)H, (13)C and (31)P NMR studies.

  10. Variation in bull beef quality due to ultimate muscle pH is correlated to endopeptidase and small heat shock protein levels.

    PubMed

    Pulford, D J; Dobbie, P; Fraga Vazquez, S; Fraser-Smith, E; Frost, D A; Morris, C A

    2009-09-01

    This study set out to determine if ultimate pH (pH(u)) affected the performance of intracellular small heat shock protein and endopeptidase dynamics in muscle during beef ageing. Longissimus dorsi muscles from 39 Angus or Limousin×Angus bulls were examined to see if pH(u) achieved at 22h post mortem (rigor) affected tenderness and water holding capacity of beef. Samples were segregated into three pH(u) groups termed high (pH>6.3), intermediate (5.73 days post mortem for intermediate pH(u) beef. High levels of alpha β-crystallin (aβC) at 22h post mortem coincided with delayed muscle protein degradation for low pH(u) beef. Our results support the hypothesis that aβC shields myofibrils and buffers against endopeptidase degradation of beef structure during ageing.

  11. Diurnal variation in ruminal pH on the digestibility of highly digestible perennial ryegrass during continuous culture fermentation.

    PubMed

    Wales, W J; Kolver, E S; Thorne, P L; Egan, A R

    2004-06-01

    Dairy cows grazing high-digestibility pastures exhibit pronounced diurnal variation in ruminal pH, with pH being below values considered optimal for digestion. Using a dual-flow continuous culture system, the hypothesis that minimizing diurnal variation in pH would improve digestion of pasture when pH was low, but not at a higher pH, was tested. Four treatments were imposed, with pH either allowed to exhibit normal diurnal variation around an average pH of 6.1 or 5.6, or maintained at constant pH. Digesta samples were collected during the last 3 d of each of four, 9-d experimental periods. A constant pH at 5.6 compared with a constant pH of 6.1 reduced the digestibility of organic matter (OM), neutral detergent (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) by 7, 14, and 21%, respectively. When pH was allowed to vary (averaging 5.6), digestion of OM, NDF, and ADF were reduced by 15,30, and 36%, respectively, compared with pH varying at 6.1. There was little difference in digestion parameters when pH was either constant or varied with an average pH of 6.1. However, when average pH was 5.6, maintaining a constant pH significantly increased digestion of OM, NDF, and ADF by 5, 25, and 24% compared with a pH that exhibited normal diurnal variation. These in vitro results show that gains in digestibility and potential milk production can be made by minimizing diurnal variation in ruminal pH, but only when ruminal pH is low (5.6). However, larger gains in productivity can be achieved by increasing average daily ruminal pH from 5.6 to 6.1.

  12. Variation in pH optima of hydrolytic enzyme activities in tropical rain forest soils.

    PubMed

    Turner, Benjamin L

    2010-10-01

    Extracellular enzymes synthesized by soil microbes play a central role in the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients in the environment. The pH optima of eight hydrolytic enzymes involved in the cycles of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, were assessed in a series of tropical forest soils of contrasting pH values from the Republic of Panama. Assays were conducted using 4-methylumbelliferone-linked fluorogenic substrates in modified universal buffer. Optimum pH values differed markedly among enzymes and soils. Enzymes were grouped into three classes based on their pH optima: (i) enzymes with acidic pH optima that were consistent among soils (cellobiohydrolase, β-xylanase, and arylsulfatase), (ii) enzymes with acidic pH optima that varied systematically with soil pH, with the most acidic pH optima in the most acidic soils (α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, and N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase), and (iii) enzymes with an optimum pH in either the acid range or the alkaline range depending on soil pH (phosphomonoesterase and phosphodiesterase). The optimum pH values of phosphomonoesterase were consistent among soils, being 4 to 5 for acid phosphomonoesterase and 10 to 11 for alkaline phosphomonoesterase. In contrast, the optimum pH for phosphodiesterase activity varied systematically with soil pH, with the most acidic pH optima (3.0) in the most acidic soils and the most alkaline pH optima (pH 10) in near-neutral soils. Arylsulfatase activity had a very acidic optimum pH in all soils (pH ≤3.0) irrespective of soil pH. The differences in pH optima may be linked to the origins of the enzymes and/or the degree of stabilization on solid surfaces. The results have important implications for the interpretation of hydrolytic enzyme assays using fluorogenic substrates.

  13. Soluble Factors Released by Endogenous Viable Cells Enhance the Antioxidant and Chemoattractive Activities of Cryopreserved Amniotic Membrane

    PubMed Central

    Duan-Arnold, Yi; Gyurdieva, Alexandra; Johnson, Amy; Jacobstein, Douglas A.; Danilkovitch, Alla

    2015-01-01

    Objective: Regulation of oxidative stress and recruitment of key cell types are activities of human amniotic membrane (hAM) that contribute to its benefits for wound treatment. Progress in tissue preservation has led to commercialization of hAM. The majority of hAM products are devitalized with various degrees of matrix alteration. Data show the importance of hAM matrix preservation, but little is known about the advantages of retaining viable endogenous cells. In this study, we compared the antioxidant and chemoattractive properties of viable intact cryopreserved hAM (int-hAM) and devitalized cryopreserved hAM (dev-hAM) to determine the benefits of cell preservation. Approach: We evaluated the ability of int-hAM and dev-hAM to protect fibroblasts from oxidant-induced cell damage, to suppress oxidants, and to recruit fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro. Results: Both the int-hAM–derived conditioned medium (CM) and the int-hAM tissue rescued significantly more fibroblasts from oxidant-induced damage than dev-hAM (844% and 93% more, respectively). The int-hAM CM showed a 202% greater antioxidant capacity than dev-hAM. The int-hAM CM enhanced the recruitment of fibroblasts and normal and diseased keratinocytes to a greater extent than dev-hAM (1,555%, 315%, and 151% greater, respectively). Innovation and Conclusion: Int-hAM, in which all native components are preserved, including endogenous viable cells, demonstrated a significantly greater antioxidant and fibroblast and keratinocyte chemoattractive potential compared to dev-hAM, in which viable cells are destroyed. The release of soluble factors that protect fibroblasts from oxidative injury by hAM containing viable cells is a mechanism of hAM antioxidant activity, which is a novel finding of this study. PMID:26029483

  14. Controlled delivery of Gemcitabine Hydrochloride using mannosylated poly(propyleneimine) dendrimers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Soni, Namrata; Jain, Keerti; Gupta, Umesh; Jain, N. K.

    2015-11-01

    The aim of the present investigation was to deliver Gemcitabine Hydrochloride (GmcH), an anticancer bioactive, specifically to lung tumor cells using mannosylated 4.0G poly(propyleneimine) dendrimers (M-PPI). 4.0G poly(propyleneimine) (PPI) dendrimers was synthesized using ethylenediamine as core and conjugated with mannose by ring opening reactions, followed by Schiff's reaction in the presence of sodium acetate buffer (pH 4.0). Synthesized PPI dendrimers and mannose-conjugated dendrimers were characterized using IR, NMR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. GmcH was loaded into PPI and M-PPI dendrimers using equilibrium dialysis method to develop the formulations, GmcH-PPI and GmcH-M-PPI, respectively. The developed formulations were evaluated for drug loading, in vitro release kinetics, in vitro stability, hemolytic toxicity, cytotoxicity, pharmacokinetic, and biodistribution studies. The dendrimeric formulation of GmcH showed pH-sensitive release with faster release at acidic pH, i.e., pH 4.0 in comparison with physiological pH 7.4. M-PPI conjugate showed significant reduction in hemolytic toxicity as compared to plain 4.0G PPI dendrimers towards human erythrocytes. In the cytotoxicity studies with A-549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line, the GmcH-M-PPI formulation showed the lowest IC50 value. Further, the pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution studies of free drug GmcH, GmcH-PPI, and GmcH-M-PPI in albino rats of Sprague-Dawley strain suggested the mean residence time of GmcH-M-PPI conjugate to be significantly higher (24.85 h) than free GmcH and GmcH-PPI. Deposition of drug (396.1 ± 4.7 after 2 h) in lung was found to be significantly higher with GmcH-M-PPI formulation in comparison with Gmch and GmcH-PPI.

  15. HIST1H1C Regulates Interferon-β and Inhibits Influenza Virus Replication by Interacting with IRF3

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Xiaokun; Yang, Cha; Hu, Yong; Lei, Erming; Lin, Xian; Zhao, Lianzhong; Zou, Zhong; Zhang, Anding; Zhou, Hongbo; Chen, Huanchun; Qian, Ping; Jin, Meilin

    2017-01-01

    Influenza virus NS2 is well known for its role in viral ribonucleoprotein nuclear export; however, its function has not been fully understood. A recent study showed that NS2 might interact with HIST1H1C (H1C, H1.2). Histones have been found to affect influenza virus replication, such as the H2A, H2B, H3, and H4, but H1 has not been detected. Here, we found that H1C interacts with NS2 via its C-terminal in the nucleus and that H1C affects influenza virus replication. The H1N1 influenza virus replicates better in H1C knockout A549 cells compared to wild-type A549 cells, primarily because of the regulation of H1C on interferon-β (IFN-β). Further studies showed that the H1C phosphorylation mutant (T146A) decreases IFN-β, while H1C methylation mutants (K34A, K187A) increases IFN-β by releasing the nucleosome and promoting IRF3 binding to the IFN-β promoter. Interestingly, NS2 interacts with H1C, which reduces H1C–IRF3 interaction and results in the inhibition of IFN-β enhanced by H1C. In summary, our study reveals a novel function of H1C to regulate IFN-β and uncovers an underlying mechanism, which suggests H1C plays a role in epigenetic regulation. Moreover, our results suggest a novel mechanism for the influenza virus to antagonize the innate immune response by NS2. PMID:28392790

  16. Characterization of the plasma membrane H+-ATPase in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha.

    PubMed

    Okumura, Masaki; Inoue, Shin-ichiro; Takahashi, Koji; Ishizaki, Kimitsune; Kohchi, Takayuki; Kinoshita, Toshinori

    2012-06-01

    The plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase generates an electrochemical gradient of H(+) across the plasma membrane that provides the driving force for solute transport and regulates pH homeostasis and membrane potential in plant cells. Recent studies have demonstrated that phosphorylation of the penultimate threonine in H(+)-ATPase and subsequent binding of a 14-3-3 protein is the major common activation mechanism for H(+)-ATPase in vascular plants. However, there is very little information on the plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase in nonvascular plant bryophytes. Here, we show that the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha, which is the most basal lineage of extant land plants, expresses both the penultimate threonine-containing H(+)-ATPase (pT H(+)-ATPase) and non-penultimate threonine-containing H(+)-ATPase (non-pT H(+)-ATPase) as in the green algae and that pT H(+)-ATPase is regulated by phosphorylation of its penultimate threonine. A search in the expressed sequence tag database of M. polymorpha revealed eight H(+)-ATPase genes, designated MpHA (for M. polymorpha H(+)-ATPase). Four isoforms are the pT H(+)-ATPase; the remaining isoforms are non-pT H(+)-ATPase. An apparent 95-kD protein was recognized by anti-H(+)-ATPase antibodies against an Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) isoform and was phosphorylated on the penultimate threonine in response to the fungal toxin fusicoccin in thalli, indicating that the 95-kD protein contains pT H(+)-ATPase. Furthermore, we found that the pT H(+)-ATPase in thalli is phosphorylated in response to light, sucrose, and osmotic shock and that light-induced phosphorylation depends on photosynthesis. Our results define physiological signals for the regulation of pT H(+)-ATPase in the liverwort M. polymorpha, which is one of the earliest plants to acquire pT H(+)-ATPase.

  17. Enzymatic and hormonal responses following a 24 h endurance run and a 10 h triathlon race.

    PubMed

    Fellmann, N; Sagnol, M; Bedu, M; Falgairette, G; Van Praagh, E; Gaillard, G; Jouanel, P; Coudert, J

    1988-01-01

    Muscle cell leakage and hormonal changes were compared immediately after and during the 3 days following a 24 h endurance run (R24h) in 8 subjects, and a 10 h triathlon non-competitive race (T10h) in 6 subjects. The study showed three main differences: 1) plasma enzyme increases were considerably more significant in R24h than in T10h: compared with resting levels, creatine kinase increased x 120 after R24h but only x 2 after T10h; lactic dehydrogenase x 4, as opposed to x 1.5; and transaminases only showed an increase after R24h. The plasma myoglobin increase after R24h was double that found after T10h; 2) for the same magnitude of plasma aldosterone and cortisol after R24h and T10h (3 times the resting levels), a highly significant decrease in urinary Na+ (p less than 0.001) and an increase in urinary K+ (p less than 0.01) were found only after R24h; and 3) the plasma free noradrenaline level increased significantly after R24h (x 2.6) whereas it was unchanged after T10h. In contrast, the plasma level of conjugated dopamine increased only after T10h (x 3.7, p less than 0.05). These results suggest that long-distance running causes more muscular lesions than the triathlon, and that important factors other than aldosterone are probably involved in the regulation of urinary electrolyte excretions during T10h.

  18. Prediction of superconducting ternary hydride MgGeH6: from divergent high-pressure formation routes.

    PubMed

    Ma, Yanbin; Duan, Defang; Shao, Ziji; Li, Da; Wang, Liyuan; Yu, Hongyu; Tian, Fubo; Xie, Hui; Liu, Bingbing; Cui, Tian

    2017-10-18

    Invigorated by the high temperature superconductivity in some binary hydrogen-dominated compounds, we systematically explored high-pressure phase diagrams and superconductivity of a ternary Mg-Ge-H system using ab initio methods. Stoichiometric MgGeH 6 with high hydrogen content exhibiting Pm3[combining macron] symmetry was predicted from a series of high-pressure synthesis paths. We performed an in-depth study on three distinct formation routes to MgGeH 6 , i.e., Mg + Ge + 3H 2 → MgGeH 6 , MgGe + 3H 2 → MgGeH 6 and MgH 2 + GeH 4 → MgGeH 6 at high pressures. By directly squeezing three elemental solids Mg + Ge + 3H 2 , we obtained ternary MgGeH 6 at 200 GPa. By adding a little bit of the MgGe alloy into hydrogen, we found that MgGeH 6 can form and stabilize at about 200 GPa. More intriguingly, upon compressing MgH 2 and GeH 4 to 250 GPa, we also predicted the same MgGeH 6 . Electron structure calculations reveal that the cubic MgGeH 6 is a good metal and takes on ionic character. Electron-phonon coupling calculation reveals a large λ = 1.16 for MgGeH 6 at 200 GPa. In particular, we found that ternary MgGeH 6 could be a potential high temperature superconductor with a superconducting transition temperature T c of ∼67 K at 200 GPa.

  19. Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Are More Effective Than Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cerebral Ischemic Injury.

    PubMed

    Song, Miyeoun; Lee, Jae-Hyung; Bae, Jinhyun; Bu, Youngmin; Kim, Eun-Cheol

    2017-06-09

    We compared the therapeutic effects and mechanism of transplanted human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) in a rat stroke model and an in vitro model of ischemia. Rats were intravenously injected with hDPSCs or hBM-MSCs 24 h after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo), and both groups showed improved functional recovery and reduced infarct volume versus control rats, but the hDPSC group showed greater reduction in infarct volume than the hBM-MSC group. The positive area for the endothelial cell marker was greater in the lesion boundary areas in the hDPSC group than in the hBM-MSC group. Administration of hDPSCs to rats with stroke significantly decreased reactive gliosis, as evidenced by the attenuation of MCAo-induced GFAP+/nestin+ and GFAP+/Musashi-1+ cells, compared with hBM-MSCs. In vivo findings were confirmed by in vitro data illustrating that hDPSCs showed superior neuroprotective, migratory, and in vitro angiogenic effects in oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-injured human astrocytes (hAs) versus hBM-MSCs. Comprehensive comparative bioinformatics analyses from hDPSC- and hBM-MSC-treated in vitro OGD-injured hAs were examined by RNA sequencing technology. In gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses, significant pathways in the hDPSC-treated group were the MAPK and TGF-β signaling pathways. Thus, hDPSCs may be a better cell therapy source for ischemic stroke than hBM-MSCs.

  20. Recombinant Newcastle Disease Virus Expressing H9 HA Protects Chickens against Heterologous Avian Influenza H9N2 Virus Challenge

    PubMed Central

    Nagy, Abdou; Lee, Jinhwa; Mena, Ignacio; Henningson, Jamie; Li, Yuhao; Ma, Jingjiao; Duff, Michael; Li, Yonghai; Lang, Yuekun; Yang, Jianmei; Abdallah, Fatma; Richt, Juergen; Ali, Ahmed; García-Sastre, Adolfo; Ma, Wenjun

    2017-01-01

    In order to produce an efficient poultry H9 avian influenza vaccine that provides cross-protection against multiple H9 lineages, two Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) LaSota vaccine strain recombinant viruses were generated using reverse genetics. The recombinant NDV-H9Con virus expresses a consensus-H9 hemagglutinin (HA) that is designed based on available H9N2 sequences from Chinese and Middle Eastern isolates. The recombinant NDV-H9Chi virus expresses a chimeric-H9 HA in which the H9 ectodomain of A/Guinea Fowl/Hong Kong/WF10/99 was fused with the cytoplasmic and transmembrane domain of the fusion protein (F) of NDV. Both recombinant viruses expressed the inserted HA stably and grew to high titers. An efficacy study in chickens showed that both recombinant viruses were able to provide protection against challenge with a heterologous H9N2 virus. In contrast to the NDV-H9Chi virus, the NDV-H9Con virus induced a higher hemagglutination inhibition titer against both NDV and H9 viruses in immunized birds, and efficiently inhibited virus shedding through the respiratory route. Moreover, sera collected from birds immunized with either NDV-H9Con or NDV-H9Chi were able to cross-neutralize two different lineages of H9N2 viruses, indicating that NDV-H9Con and NDV-H9Chi are promising vaccine candidates that could provide cross-protection among different H9N2 lineage viruses. PMID:27102817

Top