Sample records for intravenous infiltration detection

  1. Non-invasive, multi-modal sensing of skin stretch and bioimpedance for detecting infiltration during intravenous therapy.

    PubMed

    Jambulingam, Jambu A; McCrory, Russell; West, Leanne; Inan, Omer T

    2016-08-01

    Intravenous infiltration is a condition wherein an infused solution leaks inadvertently into soft tissue surrounding a hypodermic needle site. This occurrence affects approximately 6.5% of patients in hospitals worldwide, and can lead to severe tissue damage if not treated immediately. The methods currently used by medical staff to detect an infiltration are subjective and can potentially be prone to error. Infiltration is an even larger concern in pediatric patients, who have smaller veins than adults and have more difficulty in communicating pain or other discomfort associated with the infiltration with medical staff. For these reasons, automatic IV infiltration detection could potentially reduce the risk associated with this damaging condition. This paper proposes a novel proof-of-concept system that uses non-invasive sensing in conjunction with a low-power embedded computing platform to deliver continuous infiltration monitoring around the IV catheter site. This kind of system could be able to detect an infiltration by non-invasively monitoring for known symptoms: swelling of soft tissue and increased skin firmness; these symptoms can be sensed by measuring skin stretch and local bioimpedance. Moreover, the low-power design and wireless capabilities can potentially enable continuous wear. The proposed automatic IV infiltration detection system could significantly improve the number of infiltrations identified and treated on time.

  2. Toward Non-Invasive and Automatic Intravenous Infiltration Detection: Evaluation of Bioimpedance and Skin Strain in a Pig Model.

    PubMed

    Bicen, A Ozan; West, Leanne L; Cesar, Liliana; Inan, Omer T

    2018-01-01

    Intravenous (IV) therapy is prevalent in hospital settings, where fluids are typically delivered with an IV into a peripheral vein of the patient. IV infiltration is the inadvertent delivery of fluids into the extravascular space rather than into the vein (and requires urgent treatment to avoid scarring and severe tissue damage), for which medical staff currently needs to check patients periodically. In this paper, the performance of two non-invasive sensing modalities, electrical bioimpedance (EBI), and skin strain sensing, for the automatic detection of IV infiltration was investigated in an animal model. Infiltrations were physically simulated on the hind limb of anesthetized pigs, where the sensors for EBI and skin strain sensing were co-located. The obtained data were used to examine the ability to distinguish between infusion into the vein and an infiltration event using bioresistance and bioreactance (derived from EBI), as well as skin strain. Skin strain and bioresistance sensing could achieve detection rates greater than 0.9 for infiltration fluid volumes of 2 and 10 mL, respectively, for a given false positive, i.e., false alarm rate of 0.05. Furthermore, the fusion of multiple sensing modalities could achieve a detection rate of 0.97 with a false alarm rate of 0.096 for 5mL fluid volume of infiltration. EBI and skin strain sensing can enable non-invasive and real-time IV infiltration detection systems. Fusion of multiple sensing modalities can help to detect expanded range of leaking fluid volumes. The provided performance results and comparisons in this paper are an important step towards clinical translation of sensing technologies for detecting IV infiltration.

  3. Toward Non-Invasive and Automatic Intravenous Infiltration Detection: Evaluation of Bioimpedance and Skin Strain in a Pig Model

    PubMed Central

    Bicen, A. Ozan; West, Leanne L.; Cesar, Liliana

    2018-01-01

    Intravenous (IV) therapy is prevalent in hospital settings, where fluids are typically delivered with an IV into a peripheral vein of the patient. IV infiltration is the inadvertent delivery of fluids into the extravascular space rather than into the vein (and requires urgent treatment to avoid scarring and severe tissue damage), for which medical staff currently needs to check patients periodically. In this paper, the performance of two non-invasive sensing modalities, electrical bioimpedance (EBI), and skin strain sensing, for the automatic detection of IV infiltration was investigated in an animal model. Infiltrations were physically simulated on the hind limb of anesthetized pigs, where the sensors for EBI and skin strain sensing were co-located. The obtained data were used to examine the ability to distinguish between infusion into the vein and an infiltration event using bioresistance and bioreactance (derived from EBI), as well as skin strain. Skin strain and bioresistance sensing could achieve detection rates greater than 0.9 for infiltration fluid volumes of 2 and 10 mL, respectively, for a given false positive, i.e., false alarm rate of 0.05. Furthermore, the fusion of multiple sensing modalities could achieve a detection rate of 0.97 with a false alarm rate of 0.096 for 5mL fluid volume of infiltration. EBI and skin strain sensing can enable non-invasive and real-time IV infiltration detection systems. Fusion of multiple sensing modalities can help to detect expanded range of leaking fluid volumes. The provided performance results and comparisons in this paper are an important step towards clinical translation of sensing technologies for detecting IV infiltration. PMID:29692956

  4. Low-temperature infiltration identified using infrared thermography in patients with subcutaneous edema revealed ultrasonographically: A case report.

    PubMed

    Oya, Maiko; Takahashi, Toshiaki; Tanabe, Hidenori; Oe, Makoto; Murayama, Ryoko; Yabunaka, Koichi; Matsui, Yuko; Sanada, Hiromi

    Infiltration is a frequent complication of infusion therapy. We previously demonstrated the usefulness of infrared thermography as an objective method of detecting infiltration in healthy people. However, whether thermography can detect infiltration in clinical settings remains unknown. Therefore, we report two cases where thermography was useful in detecting infiltration at puncture sites. In both cases, tissue changes were verified ultrasonographically. The patients were a 56-year-old male with cholangitis and a 76-year-old female with hepatoma. In both cases, infiltration symptoms such as swelling and erythema occurred one day after the insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter. Thermographic images from both patients revealed low-temperature areas spreading from the puncture sites; however, these changes were not observed in other patients. The temperature difference between the low-temperature areas and their surrounding skin surface exceeded 1.0°C. Concurrently, ultrasound images revealed that tissues surrounding the vein had a cobblestone appearance, indicating edema. In both patients, subcutaneous tissue changes suggested infiltration and both had low-temperature areas spreading from the puncture sites. Thus, subcutaneous edema may indicate infusion leakage, resulting in a decrease in the temperature of the associated skin surface. These cases suggest that infrared thermography is an effective method of objectively and noninvasively detecting infiltration.

  5. Identification of Risk Factors for Intravenous Infiltration among Hospitalized Children: A Retrospective Study

    PubMed Central

    2016-01-01

    This retrospective study was aimed to identify risk factors of intravenous (IV) infiltration for hospitalized children. The participants were 1,174 children admitted to a general hospital, who received peripheral intravenous injection therapy at least once, and had complete records. Data were analyzed with frequency and percentage or mean and standard deviation were calculated, and odds ratio (OR) from univariate and multiple logistic regressions. The number and % of infiltrations were 92 and 7.8%, respectively. IV infiltration risk factors were lower limb (OR = 1.72), phenytoin (OR = 11.03), 10% dextrose (OR = 6.55), steroids (OR = 6.21), vancomycin (OR = 4.10), high-concentration electrolytes (OR = 3.49), and ampicillin/sulbactam combination (OR = 3.37). Nurses working at children’s hospitals should consider the risk of IV infiltration for children receiving IV infusion therapy and make a preventive effort to identify IV infiltration in high-risk children at an early stage. PMID:27351488

  6. Comparison of different administration of ketamine and intravenous tramadol hydrochloride for postoperative pain relief and sedation after pediatric tonsillectomy.

    PubMed

    Yenigun, Alper; Et, Tayfun; Aytac, Sirin; Olcay, Betul

    2015-01-01

    Tonsillectomy is the oldest and most frequently performed surgical procedure practiced by ear, nose, and throat physicians. In this study, our aim was to compare the analgesic effects of peritonsillar, rectal, as well as intravenous infiltration of ketamine and intravenous tramadol hydrochloride infiltration for postoperative pain relief and sedation after tonsillectomy in children. This randomized controlled study evaluated the effects of peritonsillar, intravenous, and rectal infiltration of ketamine in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy. One hundred twenty children who were categorized under American Society of Anesthesiologists classes I to II were randomized to 4 groups of 30 members each. Group 1 received intravenous (IV) ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), group 2 received rectal ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), group 3 received local peritonsillar ketamine (2 mg/kg), and the control group received IV tramadol hydrochloride infiltration (2 mg/kg). Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale scores and Wilson sedation scale were recorded at minutes 1, 15, 30, 60 as well as hours 2, 12, and 24 postoperatively. The patients were interviewed on the day after the surgery to assess the postoperative pain and sedation. All the routes of infiltration of ketamine were as effective as those of tramadol hydrochloride (P > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed between IV infiltrations and all groups during the assessments at hours 6 and 24. The analgesic efficacy of IV ketamine was found especially higher at hours 6 and 24 (P(6) = 0.045, P(24) = 0.011). Perioperative, low-dose IV, rectal, or peritonsillar ketamine infiltration provides efficient pain relief without any adverse effects in children who would undergo adenotonsillectomy.

  7. The Effect of Intravenous Infiltration Management Program for Hospitalized Children.

    PubMed

    Park, Soon Mi; Jeong, Ihn Sook; Kim, Kyoung Lae; Park, Kyung Ju; Jung, Moon Ju; Jun, Seong Suk

    2016-01-01

    This study aimed to identify the effect of IV infiltration management program among hospitalized children. This was a quasi-experimental study with history comparison group design with 2,894 catheters inserted during 3 months comparison phase and 3,651 catheters inserted during 4 months experimental phase. The intervention was composed of seven activities including applying poster, documentation of catheter insertion, parents education, making infiltration report, assessment of vein condition before inserting catheter, appropriate site selection, and documentation of catheter insertion, and assessment of peripheral catheter insertion site every shift. Data were analyzed using of X2-test, Fisher's exact test. The infiltration incidence rate was 0.9% for experimental group and 4.4% for comparison group, which was significantly different (x2=80.42, p<.001). The catheter maintenance period (p=.035) and infiltration state (p=.039) were significantly different among participants with infiltration between comparison and experimental groups. IV Infiltration management program was founded to be effective in reducing the IV infiltration incidence rate and increasing early detection of IV infiltration. Considering the effect of IV Infiltration management program, we recommend that this infiltration management program would be widely used in the clinical settings. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Experimental research on preventing mechanical phlebitis arising from indwelling needles in intravenous therapy by external application of mirabilite

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Yanyan; Hao, Chunyan; He, Wubin; Tang, Can; Shao, Zhenya

    2018-01-01

    Various types of complications arising from intravenous indwelling needles have become a challenge in clinical care. It is urgent to seek a simple and cost-effective method for prevention and treatment of phlebitis. We investigated the roles of mirabilite in preventing and treating phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles and provide guidance for prevention and treatment of mechanical phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles. A total of 57 healthy congeneric big-eared New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups: blank control, indwelling needle, and group with external application of mirabilite. The ear vein of each rabbit was punctured with an intravenous indwelling needle. The ear vein specimens were taken at 3, 5, and 7 days after indwelling. The hematoxylin and eosin stained pathological tissue sections of the ear veins of the rabbits in each group were observed. The expression levels of IL-1 and IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the vascular tissue of the ear veins of the rabbits in each group were detected with the immunofluorescence method. In the blank control group, there was no inflammatory cellular infiltration and no proliferation of fibrous tissue around the vascular wall. With the increase of the indwelling time, proliferation of fibrous tissue in vascular wall, increased inflammatory cellular infiltration and organized thrombus in the vascular tissue occurred in the ear veins of the rabbits in the indwelling needle group and group with external application of mirabilite. Compared with the indwelling needle group, the group with external application of mirabilite had significantly decreased fibrous tissue in the vascular wall and significantly decreased inflammatory cellular infiltration. At the same point in indwelling time, the expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the indwelling needle and group with external application of mirabilite were significantly higher than that in the blank control group (P<0.05). The expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the group with external application of mirabilite were lower than that in the indwelling needle group (P<0.05). The expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α are positively correlated with the indwelling time within the same group at different points in time. In conclusion, external application of mirabilite can significantly decrease infiltration of venous inflammatory cells of the rabbit ear margin, proliferation of fibrous tissue and thrombosis in the vascular wall, significant decrease the expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the mechanical phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles, and decrease the inflammatory responses of the ear veins of rabbits. PMID:29250150

  9. Experimental research on preventing mechanical phlebitis arising from indwelling needles in intravenous therapy by external application of mirabilite.

    PubMed

    Lu, Yanyan; Hao, Chunyan; He, Wubin; Tang, Can; Shao, Zhenya

    2018-01-01

    Various types of complications arising from intravenous indwelling needles have become a challenge in clinical care. It is urgent to seek a simple and cost-effective method for prevention and treatment of phlebitis. We investigated the roles of mirabilite in preventing and treating phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles and provide guidance for prevention and treatment of mechanical phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles. A total of 57 healthy congeneric big-eared New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups: blank control, indwelling needle, and group with external application of mirabilite. The ear vein of each rabbit was punctured with an intravenous indwelling needle. The ear vein specimens were taken at 3, 5, and 7 days after indwelling. The hematoxylin and eosin stained pathological tissue sections of the ear veins of the rabbits in each group were observed. The expression levels of IL-1 and IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the vascular tissue of the ear veins of the rabbits in each group were detected with the immunofluorescence method. In the blank control group, there was no inflammatory cellular infiltration and no proliferation of fibrous tissue around the vascular wall. With the increase of the indwelling time, proliferation of fibrous tissue in vascular wall, increased inflammatory cellular infiltration and organized thrombus in the vascular tissue occurred in the ear veins of the rabbits in the indwelling needle group and group with external application of mirabilite. Compared with the indwelling needle group, the group with external application of mirabilite had significantly decreased fibrous tissue in the vascular wall and significantly decreased inflammatory cellular infiltration. At the same point in indwelling time, the expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the indwelling needle and group with external application of mirabilite were significantly higher than that in the blank control group (P<0.05). The expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the group with external application of mirabilite were lower than that in the indwelling needle group (P<0.05). The expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α are positively correlated with the indwelling time within the same group at different points in time. In conclusion, external application of mirabilite can significantly decrease infiltration of venous inflammatory cells of the rabbit ear margin, proliferation of fibrous tissue and thrombosis in the vascular wall, significant decrease the expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the mechanical phlebitis caused by intravenous indwelling needles, and decrease the inflammatory responses of the ear veins of rabbits.

  10. Peripheral intravenous and central catheter algorithm: a proactive quality initiative.

    PubMed

    Wilder, Kerry A; Kuehn, Susan C; Moore, James E

    2014-12-01

    Peripheral intravenous (PIV) infiltrations causing tissue damage is a global issue surrounded by situations that make vascular access decisions difficult. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to develop an algorithm and assess its effectiveness in reducing PIV infiltrations in neonates. The targeted subjects were all infants in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with a PIV catheter. We completed a retrospective chart review of the electronic medical record to collect 4th quarter 2012 baseline data. Following adoption of the algorithm, we also performed a daily manual count of all PIV catheters in the 1st and 2nd quarters 2013. Daily PIV days were defined as follows: 1 patient with a PIV catheter equals 1 PIV day. An infant with 2 PIV catheters in place was counted as 2 PIV days. Our rate of infiltration or tissue damage was determined by counting the number of events and dividing by the number of PIV days. The rate of infiltration or tissue damage was reported as the number of events per 100 PIV days. The number of infiltrations and PIV catheters was collected from the electronic medical record and also verified manually by daily assessment after adoption of the algorithm. To reduce the rate of PIV infiltrations leading to grade 4 infiltration and tissue damage by at least 30% in the NICU population. Incidence of PIV infiltrations/100 catheter days. The baseline rate for total infiltrations increased slightly from 5.4 to 5.68/100 PIV days (P = .397) for the NICU. We attributed this increase to heightened awareness and better reporting. Grade 4 infiltrations decreased from 2.8 to 0.83/100 PIV catheter days (P = .00021) after the algorithm was implemented. Tissue damage also decreased from 0.68 to 0.3/100 PIV days (P = .11). Statistical analysis used the Fisher exact test and reported as statistically significant at P < .05. Our findings suggest that utilization of our standardized decision pathway was instrumental in providing guidance for problem solving related to vascular access decisions. We feel this contributed to the overall reduction in grade 4 intravenous infiltration and tissue damage rates. Grade 4 infiltration reductions were highly statistically significant (P = .00021).

  11. Experimental evidence of hepatitis A virus infection in pigs.

    PubMed

    Song, Young-Jo; Park, Woo-Jung; Park, Byung-Joo; Kwak, Sang-Woo; Kim, Yong-Hyeon; Lee, Joong-Bok; Park, Seung-Yong; Song, Chang-Seon; Lee, Sang-Won; Seo, Kun-Ho; Kang, Young-Sun; Park, Choi-Kyu; Song, Jae-Young; Choi, In-Soo

    2016-04-01

    Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is the leading cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide, with HAV infection being restricted to humans and nonhuman primates. In this study, HAV infection status was serologically determined in domestic pigs and experimental infections of HAV were attempted to verify HAV infectivity in pigs. Antibodies specific to HAV or HAV-like agents were detected in 3.5% of serum samples collected from pigs in swine farms. When the pigs were infected intravenously with 2 × 10(5) 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50 ) of HAV, shedding of the virus in feces, viremia, and seroconversion were detected. In pigs orally infected with the same quantity of HAV, viral shedding was detected only in feces. HAV genomic RNA was detected in the liver and bile of intravenously infected pigs, but only in the bile of orally infected pigs. In further experiments, pigs were intravenously infected with 6 × 10(5) TCID50 of HAV. Shedding of HAV in feces, along with viremia and seroconversion, were confirmed in infected pigs but not in sentinel pigs. HAV genomic RNA was detected in the liver, bile, spleen, lymph node, and kidney of the infected pigs. HAV antigenomic RNA was detected in the spleen of one HAV-infected pig, suggesting HAV replication in splenic cells. Infiltration of inflammatory cells was observed in the livers of infected pigs but not in controls. This is the first experimental evidence to demonstrate that human HAV strains can infect pigs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  12. Contrast-Enhanced Spectral Mammography: Comparison with Conventional Mammography and Histopathology in 152 Women

    PubMed Central

    Luczyńska, Elzbieta; Heinze-Paluchowska, Sylwia; Dyczek, Sonia; Rys, Janusz; Reinfuss, Marian

    2014-01-01

    Objective The goal of the study was to compare conventional mammography (MG) and contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) in preoperative women. Materials and Methods The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee and all participants provided informed consent. The study included 152 consecutive patients with 173 breast lesions diagnosed on MG or CESM. All MG examinations and consults were conducted in one oncology centre. Non-ionic contrast agent, at a total dose of 1.5 mL/kg body weight, was injected intravenous. Subsequently, CESM exams were performed with a mammography device, allowing dual-energy acquisitions. The entire procedure was done within the oncology centre. Images from low and high energy exposures were processed together and the combination provided an "iodine" image which outlined contrast up-take in the breast. Results MG detected 157 lesions in 150 patients, including 92 infiltrating cancers, 12 non-infiltrating cancers, and 53 benign lesions. CESM detected 149 lesions in 128 patients, including 101 infiltrating cancers, 13 non-infiltrating cancers, and 35 benign lesions. CESM sensitivity was 100% (vs. 91% for MG), specificity was 41% (vs. 15% for MG), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.86 (vs. 0.67 for MG), and accuracy was 80% (vs. 65% for MG) for the diagnosis of breast cancer. Both MG and CESM overestimated lesion sizes compared to histopathology (p < 0.001). Conclusion CESM may provide higher sensitivity for breast cancer detection and greater diagnostic accuracy than conventional mammography. PMID:25469079

  13. Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography: comparison with conventional mammography and histopathology in 152 women.

    PubMed

    Luczyńska, Elzbieta; Heinze-Paluchowska, Sylwia; Dyczek, Sonia; Blecharz, Pawel; Rys, Janusz; Reinfuss, Marian

    2014-01-01

    The goal of the study was to compare conventional mammography (MG) and contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) in preoperative women. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee and all participants provided informed consent. The study included 152 consecutive patients with 173 breast lesions diagnosed on MG or CESM. All MG examinations and consults were conducted in one oncology centre. Non-ionic contrast agent, at a total dose of 1.5 mL/kg body weight, was injected intravenous. Subsequently, CESM exams were performed with a mammography device, allowing dual-energy acquisitions. The entire procedure was done within the oncology centre. Images from low and high energy exposures were processed together and the combination provided an "iodine" image which outlined contrast up-take in the breast. MG detected 157 lesions in 150 patients, including 92 infiltrating cancers, 12 non-infiltrating cancers, and 53 benign lesions. CESM detected 149 lesions in 128 patients, including 101 infiltrating cancers, 13 non-infiltrating cancers, and 35 benign lesions. CESM sensitivity was 100% (vs. 91% for MG), specificity was 41% (vs. 15% for MG), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.86 (vs. 0.67 for MG), and accuracy was 80% (vs. 65% for MG) for the diagnosis of breast cancer. Both MG and CESM overestimated lesion sizes compared to histopathology (p < 0.001). CESM may provide higher sensitivity for breast cancer detection and greater diagnostic accuracy than conventional mammography.

  14. Preincisional administration of intravenous or subcutaneous infiltration of low-dose ketamine suppresses postoperative pain after appendectomy

    PubMed Central

    Honarmand, Azim; Safavi, Mohammadreza; Karaky, Hasan

    2012-01-01

    Background Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, can suppress hyperalgesia and allodynia. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of preincisional intravenous or subcutaneous infiltration of ketamine for postoperative pain relief after appendectomy. Methods Ninety patients, aged 18–60 years, scheduled for appendectomy was enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into three groups of 30 each and received subcutaneous infiltration of ketamine 0.5 mg/kg (KS), intravenous ketamine 0.5 mg/kg (KI), or subcutaneous infiltration of normal saline 3 mL (C) before surgery. Visual analog scale (VAS) values and analgesic consumption were evaluated for 24 hours after surgery. Results VAS scores were significantly lower at the time of arrival in the recovery room, and at 10, 20, and 30 minutes thereafter in group KI and group KS compared with group C (P < 0.05). VAS scores were not significantly different between group KI and group KS at these intervals. Postoperative VAS scores were significantly lower at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours in group KI compared with group C (P < 0.05). In group KS, the postoperative VAS score was significantly lower at 6 hours (P < 0.05). VAS scores were significantly lower at 12, 18, and 24 hours after surgery in group KI compared with group KS (P < 0.05). Conclusion A 0.5 mg/kg dose of ketamine given at approximately 15 minutes before surgery by the intravenous route provided analgesia for 24 hours after surgery in patients undergoing appendectomy. PMID:22328829

  15. Decreasing IV Infiltrates in the Pediatric Patient--System-Based Improvement Project.

    PubMed

    Major, Tracie Wilt; Huey, Tricia K

    2016-01-01

    Intravenous infiltrates pose tremendous risk for the hospitalized pediatric patient. Infiltrate events increase hospital-acquired harm, the number of painful procedures, use of supplies, length of stay, and nursing time; it threatens relationships essential in patient- and family-centered care. The goal of this quality improvement project was to achieve a 10% decrease in the baseline infiltrate rate on two inpatient units and in the overall infiltrate rate across all of the pediatric units. A Lean Six Sigma methodology was used to guide project activities. Improvement strategies focused on evidence-based education, intravenous (IV) catheter securement, and family engagement. A comparative purposive sample was used to evaluate the pre- and post-implementation period to determine if desired project success measures were achieved. Data analysis revealed positive results across all units, with the number of events (n = 51 pre; n = 19 post) and the infiltration rates (13.5 pre; 7.1 post) decreasing over a three-month period. A decrease was also noted in the overall percent of IVs that infiltrated in the first 24 hours (45% pre; 42% post). A statistically significant increase (t = 15.16; p < 0.001) was noted in nurses' education pre- and post-assessment survey scores. The family engagement strategy revealed overall parental responses to be 88% positive. By decreasing infiltrates, quality of care improved, resulting in the delivery of safe, effective, and patient-centered IV therapy.

  16. Selective enrichment of hypericin in malignant glioma: pioneering in vivo results.

    PubMed

    Noell, Susan; Mayer, Daniel; Strauss, Wolfgang S L; Tatagiba, Marcos S; Ritz, Rainer

    2011-05-01

    Malignant gliomas are diffuse infiltrative growing tumors with a poor prognosis despite treatment with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It has been shown recently that complete tumor resection improves the survival time significantly. Hypericin, a component of St. Johns Wort, is one of the most powerful photosensitizers in nature. The aim of the present study was to investigate accumulation of hypericin in intracerebral implanted malignant glioma in vivo. Rats underwent stereotactic implantation of C6 glioma cells. After intravenous administration of hypericin (5 mg per kg body weight), accumulation of the compound was studied in tumor, the infiltration zone surrounding the tumor and healthy brain (contralateral hemisphere) by fluorescence microscopy between 0 and 48 h after injection. Results were compared by one-way analysis of variance. For post hoc pair-wise comparison the Tukey-Kramer HSD test was used. Accumulation of hypericin was significantly higher in C6 glioma as compared to normal tissue. Maximum hypericin uptake was achieved at 24 h after injection. Ratios of fluorescence intensity between tumor and normal tissue as well as infiltration zone and normal tissue of about 6.1:1 and 1.4:1 were found. Considering tissue auto-fluorescence, fluorescence ratios of about 19.8:1 and 2.5:1 were calculated, respectively. Therefore, hypericin seems to be quite an effective fluorescence marker for the detection of glioma in vivo. To the best of our knowledge, the present study demonstrates for the first time that hypericin accumulates selectively in intracerebral implanted C6 glioma in vivo after systemic (intravenous) administration.

  17. Intravenous insertion site protection: moisture accumulation in intravenous site protectors.

    PubMed

    Lee, W E; Vallino, L M

    1996-01-01

    Stabilizing the intravenous catheter after insertion is a significant part of intravenous therapy. Dislodgments of the cannula from its optimal position in the vein can lead to complications such as phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, infiltration, and infection. Intravenous site protector shields are designed to protect the catheter from impact and tissue trauma at the insertion site. Nurses have requested ventilation in these shields to avoid moisture build up that may increase the risk of infections. To address this issue, experimental laboratory testing was performed to determine if moisture accumulation as evidenced by increased weight of the shield and visible evidence of condensation occurred. No moisture condensation problems with the ventilated intravenous site protectors were found.

  18. Comparison of Transversus Abdominis Plane Infiltration with Liposomal Bupivacaine versus Continuous Epidural Analgesia versus Intravenous Opioid Analgesia.

    PubMed

    Ayad, Sabry; Babazade, Rovnat; Elsharkawy, Hesham; Nadar, Vinayak; Lokhande, Chetan; Makarova, Natalya; Khanna, Rashi; Sessler, Daniel I; Turan, Alparslan

    2016-01-01

    Epidural analgesia is considered the standard of care but cannot be provided to all patients Liposomal bupivacaine has been approved for field blocks such as transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks but has not been clinically compared against other modalities. In this retrospective propensity matched cohort study we thus tested the primary hypothesis that TAP infiltration are noninferior (not worse) to continuous epidural analgesia and superior (better) to intravenous opioid analgesia in patients recovering from major lower abdominal surgery. 318 patients were propensity matched on 18 potential factors among three groups (106 per group): 1) TAP infiltration with bupivacaine liposome; 2) continuous Epidural analgesia with plain bupivacaine; and; 3) intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV PCA). We claimed TAP noninferior (not worse) over Epidural if TAP was noninferior (not worse) on total morphine-equivalent opioid and time-weighted average pain score (10-point scale) within first 72 hours after surgery with noninferiority deltas of 1 (10-point scale) for pain and an increase less of 20% in the mean morphine equivalent opioid consumption. We claimed TAP or Epidural groups superior (better) over IV PCA if TAP or Epidural was superior on opioid consumption and at least noninferior on pain outcome. Multivariable linear regressions within the propensity-matched cohorts were used to model total morphine-equivalent opioid dose and time-weighted average pain score within first 72 hours after surgery; joint hypothesis framework was used for formal testing. TAP infiltration were noninferior to Epidural on both primary outcomes (p<0.001). TAP infiltration were noninferior to IV PCA on pain scores (p = 0.001) but we did not find superiority on opioid consumption (p = 0.37). We did not find noninferiority of Epidural over IV PCA on pain scores (P = 0.13) and nor did we find superiority on opioid consumption (P = 0.98). TAP infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine and continuous epidural analgesia were similar in terms of pain and opioid consumption, and not worse in pain compared with IV PCA. TAP infiltrations might be a reasonable alternative to epidural analgesia in abdominal surgical patients. A large randomized trial comparing these techniques is justified.

  19. Postoperative pain after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: comparison of three analgesic schemes (isolated intravenous analgesia, epidural analgesia associated with intravenous analgesia and port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine associated with intravenous analgesia).

    PubMed

    Ruiz-Tovar, Jaime; Muñoz, Jose Luis; Gonzalez, Juan; Zubiaga, Lorea; García, Alejandro; Jimenez, Montiel; Ferrigni, Carlos; Durán, Manuel

    2017-01-01

    Although bariatric surgery is actually mainly performed laparoscopically, analgesic optimization continues being essential to reduce complications and to improve the patients' comfort. The aim of this study is to evaluate the postoperative pain after analgesia iv exclusively, or associated with epidural analgesia or port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine. A prospective randomized study of patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy between 2012 and 2014 was performed. Patients were divided into three groups: Analgesia iv exclusively (Group 1), epidural analgesia + analgesia iv (Group 2) and port-sites infiltration + analgesia iv (Group 3). Pain was quantified by means of a Visual Analogic Scale, and morphine rescue needs were determined 24 h after surgery. A total of 147 were included. Groups were comparable in age, gender and BMI. There were no differences in operation time, complications, mortality or hospital stay between groups. Median pain 24 h after surgery was 5 in Group 1, 2.5 in Group 2 and 2 in Group 3 (P = 0.01), without statistically significant differences between Groups 2 and 3. In Group 1, morphine rescue was necessary in 16.3 % of the cases, 2 % in Group 2 and 2 % in Group 3 (P = 0.014), without statistically significant differences between Groups 2 and 3. Epidural analgesia and port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine, associated with analgesia iv, reduce the postoperative pain, when compared with analgesia iv exclusively. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02662660.

  20. Evaluating mononuclear cells as nanoparticle delivery vehicles for the treatment of breast tumors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Murton, Jaclyn K.; Hu, Chelin; Ahmed, Mona M.; Hathaway, Helen J.; Nysus, Monique; Anderson Daniels, Tamara; Norenberg, Jeffrey P.; Adolphi, Natalie L.

    2015-08-01

    In breast cancer, certain types of circulating immune cells respond to long-range chemical signals from tumors by leaving the blood stream to actively infiltrate tumor tissue. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether immune cells could be used to deliver therapeutic nanoparticles into breast tumors in mice. Mononuclear splenocytes (MS) were harvested from donor mice, labeled with Indium-111, injected intravenously into immune-competent recipient mice (3 tumor-bearing and 3 control), and imaged longitudinally by SPECT/CT. For comparison, the biodistribution of bonemarrow derived macrophages (BMDM) in one pair of mice was also imaged. Quantitative analysis of the SPECT images demonstrates that, after 24 hours, the concentration of MS detected in mammary tumors is more than 3-fold higher than the concentration detected in normal mammary glands. The ratio of MS concentration in mammary tissue to MS concentration in non-target tissues (muscle, lung, heart, liver, spleen, and kidney) was enhanced in tumor-bearing mice (compared to controls), with statistical significance achieved for mammary/muscle (p<0.01), mammary/lung (p<0.05), and mammary/kidney (p<0.05). By contrast, BMDM did not show a different affinity for tumors relative to normal mammary tissue. MS were incubated with 100 nm red fluorescent nanoparticles, and flow cytometry demonstrated that ~35% of the MS population exhibited strong phagocytic uptake of the nanoparticles. After intravenous injection into tumor-bearing mice, fluorescence microscopy images of tumor sections show qualitatively that nanoparticle-loaded MS retain the ability to infiltrate mammary tumors. Taken together, these results suggest that MS carriers are capable of actively targeting therapeutic nanoparticles to breast tumors.

  1. Bilateral pulmonary infiltrates in association with disseminated actinomycosis.

    PubMed

    Dontfraid, F; Ramphal, R

    1994-07-01

    The most common infectious cause of bilateral upper-lobe pulmonary disease is tuberculosis. However, we recently encountered a patient with bilateral apical infiltrates and multiple soft-tissue abscesses caused by Actinomyces odontolyticus. Other findings included fever, weight loss, and leukocytosis, and the patient's only known source of immunosuppression was a long history of alcoholism. There was no history of diabetes, steroid use, or other chronic underlying disease. The diagnosis was made by culture of drainage fluid from one abscess. Therapy with intravenous penicillin G led to rapid clinical improvement and reduction in the infiltrates. To our knowledge, the presentation of pulmonary infection, with bilateral apical infiltrates due to A. odontolyticus has not been previously reported in the medical literature.

  2. The effect of IV dexamethasone versus local anesthetic infiltration technique in postoperative nausea and vomiting after tonsillectomy in children: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Naja, Zoher; Kanawati, Saleh; Al Khatib, Rania; Ziade, Fouad; Naja, Zeina Z; Naja, Ahmad Salah; Rajab, Mariam

    2017-01-01

    Local anesthetic infiltration and corticosteroids had shown effectiveness in reducing post tonsillectomy nausea, vomiting and pain. To compare the effect of intravenous dexamethasone versus pre-incision infiltration of local anesthesia in pediatric tonsillectomy on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The secondary objective was postoperative pain. A randomized double-blind clinical trial was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Children admitted to undergo tonsillectomy aged between 4 and 13 years from January 2015 to August 2015 were enrolled and divided into two groups. Both groups had general anesthesia. Group I received intravenous dexamethasone 0.5 mg/kg (maximum dose 16 mg) with placebo pre-incision infiltration. Group II received pre-incision infiltration a total of 2-4 ml local anesthesia mixture with saline and an equivalent volume of intravenous saline. Group I consisted of 64 patients while group II had 65 patients. In the PACU, 15.6% of patients in group I experienced vomiting compared to 3.1% in group II (p-value = 0.032). After 24 h, the incidence of PONV was significantly higher in group I compared to group II (26.6% vs. 9.2% respectively, p-value = 0.019). At 48 h postoperatively, PONV was significantly higher in group I (p-value = 0.013). The incidence was similar in both groups after three, four and five postoperative days. Baseline pain and pain during swallowing were significantly different at 6, 12 and 24 h as well as days 1 through 5. Pain upon jaw opening was significantly different at 6, 12 and 24 h between the two groups. Pain while eating soft food was significantly different at 24 h and days 2 through 5. In the PACU, 20.3% of patients in group I received diclofenac compared to 3.1% in group II (p-value = 0.005). From day 1 till day 5, analgesic consumption was significantly higher in group I. Local anesthetic infiltration in addition to NSAIDS and paracetamol could serve as a multimodal analgesia and decrease PONV. NCT02355678. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

  3. MULTIFOCAL RETINAL INFILTRATES WITH PHLEBITIS AND OPTIC NEUROPATHY IN AN HIV-POSITIVE PEDIATRIC PATIENT.

    PubMed

    Kasi, Sundeep K; Vora, Robin A; Martin, Taliva; Cunningham, Emmett T

    2015-01-01

    To describe an unusual presentation of bilateral HIV-associated multifocal retinal infiltrates with phlebitis and optic neuropathy in a pediatric patient from Zimbabwe, Africa. Retrospective case report of a 15-year-old boy from Zimbabwe, Africa. The patient was found to have bilateral vitritis, multifocal retinitis with phlebitis, and optic neuropathy in the setting of previously unrecognized HIV infection. Vision improved and the clinical findings resolved after treatment with intravenous corticosteroids and highly active retroviral therapy (HAART). The authors describe the occurrence and treatment of bilateral, HIV-associated multifocal retinal infiltrates with phlebitis and HIV-associated optic neuropathy in a pediatric patient from Zimbabwe, Africa.

  4. Application of dual 19 F and iron cellular MRI agents to track the infiltration of immune cells to the site of a rejected stem cell transplant.

    PubMed

    Gaudet, Jeffrey M; Hamilton, Amanda M; Chen, Yuanxin; Fox, Matthew S; Foster, Paula J

    2017-08-01

    Cellular MRI) was used to detect implanted human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and the resulting macrophage infiltration that occurs in response to xenotransplantation. Human mesenchymal stem cells were prelabeled with a fluorine-19 ( 19 F) agent prior to implantation, allowing for their visualization and quantification over time. Following implantation of 1 × 10 6 19 F-labeled hMSCs into the mouse hind limb, longitudinal imaging was performed to monitor the stem cell graft. Macrophages were labeled in situ by the intravenous administration of an ultrasmall superparamagentic iron oxide (USPIO), allowing for tracking of the inflammatory response. Quantification of 19 F MRI on day 0 agreed with the implanted number of cells, and 19 F signal decreased over time. By day 14, only 22% ± 11% of the original 19 F signal remained. In a second group, USPIO were administered intravenously after implantation of 19 F-labeled hMSCs. When imaged on day 2, a significant decrease in 19 F signal was observed compared to the first group alongside a large signal void region in the corresponding proton images. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of iron-labeled macrophages in the stem cell tract. A dual-labeling technique was used to noninvasively track two distinct cell populations simultaneously. This information could be used to provide additional insight into the cause of graft failure. Magn Reson Med 78:713-720, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  5. A Primer on the Acute Management of Intravenous Extravasation Injuries for the Plastic Surgeon

    PubMed Central

    Maly, Connor; Fan, Kenneth L.; Rogers, Gary F.; Mitchell, Benjamin; Amling, June; Johnson, Kara; Welch, Laura; Oh, Albert K.

    2018-01-01

    Intravenous therapy is a common practice among many specialties. Intravenous therapy extravasation is a potential complication to such therapy. Hospitals without a dedicated wound care team trained in these interventions will often default to plastic surgical consultation, making an understanding of available interventions essential to the initial evaluation and management of these injuries. The goal of this article was to provide plastic surgeons and health care providers with a general overview of the acute management of intravenous infiltration and extravasation injuries. Though the decision for surgical versus nonsurgical management is often a clear one for plastic surgeons, local interventions, and therapies are often indicated and under-utilized in the immediate postinfiltration period. Thorough knowledge of these interventions should be a basic requirement in the armamentarium of plastic surgery consultants. PMID:29876181

  6. Tramadol wound infiltration is not different from intravenous tramadol in children: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Giraldes, Ana Laura Albertoni; Sousa, Angela Maria; Slullitel, Alexandre; Guimarães, Gabriel Magalhães Nunes; Santos, Melina Geneviève Mary Egan; Pinto, Renata Evangelista; Ashmawi, Hazem Adel; Sakata, Rioko Kimiko

    2016-02-01

    The purpose of this trial was to assess if tramadol wound infiltration is superior to intravenous (IV) tramadol after minor surgical procedures in children because tramadol seems to have local anesthetic-like effect. Randomized double-blind controlled trial. Postanesthesia care unit. Forty children, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II, scheduled to elective inguinal hernia repair. Children were randomly distributed in 1 of 2 groups: IV tramadol (group 1) or subcutaneous infiltration with tramadol (group 2). At the end of the surgery, group 1 received 2 mg/kg tramadol (3 mL) by IV route and 3-mL saline into the surgical wound; group 2 received 2 mg/kg tramadol (3 mL) into the surgical wound and 3-mL saline by IV route. In the postanesthesia care unit, patients were evaluated for pain intensity, nausea and vomiting, time to first rescue medication, and total rescue morphine and dipyrone consumption. Pain scores measured during the postanesthesia recovery time were similar between groups. Time to first rescue medication was shorter, but not statistically significant in the IV group. The total dose of rescue morphine and dipyrone was also similar between groups. We concluded that tramadol was effective in reducing postoperative pain in children, and there was no difference in pain intensity, nausea and vomiting, or somnolence regarding IV route or wound infiltration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. [Case of Legionella pneumonia caused by a household humidifier].

    PubMed

    Endo, Keiichi; Ito, Kazuhisa

    2009-05-01

    A 60-year-old-man with diabetes mellitus was admitted to our hospital because of pyrexia of up to 40 degrees and dyspnea. Chest radiograph revealed ground glass infiltrates in both lung fields. Legionella pneumonia was diagnosed as a consequence of the urinary examination performed for Legionella antigen detection; further, we initiated intravenous pazufloxacin administration. Despite an antibiotic, sivelestat sodium, and mechanical ventilation, the condition of the patient worsened and he died of respiratory failure 5 days following admission. Pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was performed to investigate the route of infection: this technique was applied to patient sputum samples and water from the humidifier in the room of the patient. The same DNA pattern as Legionella pneumophilla serogroup 1 was identified via analysis with PFGE.

  8. Enhanced immunohistochemical detection of neural infiltration in primary melanoma: is there a clinical value?

    PubMed

    Scanlon, Patrick; Tian, Jaiying; Zhong, Judy; Silva, Ines; Shapiro, Richard; Pavlick, Anna; Berman, Russell; Osman, Iman; Darvishian, Farbod

    2014-08-01

    Neural infiltration in primary melanoma is a histopathologic feature that has been associated with desmoplastic histopathologic subtype and local recurrence in the literature. We tested the hypothesis that improved detection and characterization of neural infiltration into peritumoral or intratumoral location and perineural or intraneural involvement could have a prognostic relevance. We studied 128 primary melanoma cases prospectively accrued and followed at New York University using immunohistochemical detection with antihuman neurofilament protein and routine histology with hematoxylin and eosin. Neural infiltration, defined as the presence of tumor cells involving or immediately surrounding nerve foci, was identified and characterized using both detection methods. Neural infiltration rate of detection was enhanced by immunohistochemistry for neurofilament in matched-pair design (47% by immunohistochemistry versus 25% by routine histology). Immunohistochemical detection of neural infiltration was significantly associated with ulceration (P = .021), desmoplastic and acral lentiginous histologic subtype (P = .008), and head/neck/hands/feet tumor location (P = .037). Routinely detected neural infiltration was significantly associated with local recurrence (P = .010). Immunohistochemistry detected more intratumoral neural infiltration cases compared with routine histology (30% versus 3%, respectively). Peritumoral and intratumoral nerve location had no impact on clinical outcomes. Using a multivariate model controlling for stage, neither routinely detected neural infiltration nor enhanced immunohistochemical characterization of neural infiltration was significantly associated with disease-free or overall survival. Our data demonstrate that routinely detected neural infiltration is associated with local recurrence in all histologic subtypes but that improved detection and characterization of neural infiltration with immunohistochemistry in primary melanoma does not add to prognostic relevance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Efficacy of Magnesium Sulphate as an Adjunct to Ropivacaine in Local Infiltration for Postoperative Pain Following Lower Segment Caesarean Section.

    PubMed

    Kundra, Sandeep; Singh, Rupinder M; Singh, Gaganpreet; Singh, Tania; Jarewal, Vikrant; Katyal, Sunil

    2016-04-01

    Intravenous and peri-articular magnesium has been shown to reduce perioperative analgesic consumption. With this background, subcutaneous infiltration was hypothesized to potentiate the subcutaneous infiltration of local anaesthetic agent. To comparatively evaluate the efficacy of magnesium sulphate as an adjunct to ropivacaine in local infiltration for postoperative pain following lower segment cesarean section. Sixty parturients undergoing cesarean delivery were randomized to either group A or B in a double blinded manner. After uterine and muscle closure but before skin closure, Group A was administered local subcutaneous wound infiltration of Injection (Inj) ropivacaine 0.75% 150 milligram (mg) or 20 millilitres(ml) whereas, group B patients were given a local subcutaneous wound infiltration of Inj magnesium sulphate 750 mg (1.5 ml of Inj 50% Magnesium sulphate) added to Inj ropivacaine 0.75% (18.5 ml) making a total volume of 20 ml. In postoperative period, Heart rate (HR), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), Visual Analogue Score (VAS), supplemental analgesic consumption and timing of each subsequent analgesic was noted for the initial 24 hours. There was no difference in the timings for the requirement of first Intravenous (IV) rescue analgesic among both the groups (p=0.279). However, the need for 2(nd) and 3(rd) doses of rescue analgesics was significantly later in group B and the difference was statistically significant with p-value of 0.034 and 0.031 respectively. The number of patients who were administered 2(nd), 3(rd) and 4(th) doses of rescue analgesics was significantly greater in group A as compared to group B. None of the patients in group B needed more than 4 doses of rescue analgesia while in group A, 5 patients were administered a rescue analgesic for 5(th) time. The cumulative analgesic requirement in the initial 24 hours was also greater in group A as compared to group B and the difference was statistically significant (p =0.01). The incidence of adverse effects was similar in both the groups. Subcutaneous infiltration of magnesium along with local anaesthetic prolongs the analgesic efficacy of local anaesthetic and is not associated with any significant adverse effects.

  10. Infiltration and extravasation: update on prevention and management.

    PubMed

    Doellman, Darcy; Hadaway, Lynn; Bowe-Geddes, Leigh Ann; Franklin, Michelle; LeDonne, Jack; Papke-O'Donnell, Lorelei; Pettit, Janet; Schulmeister, Lisa; Stranz, Marc

    2009-01-01

    Infiltration and extravasation are risks of intravenous administration therapy involving unintended leakage of solution into the surrounding tissue. Consequences range from local irritation to amputation. While immediate action using appropriate measures (ie, dilution, extraction, antidotes, and supportive treatments) can decrease the need for surgical intervention, many injuries may be prevented by following established policy and procedures. However, timely surgical intervention, when necessary, can prevent more serious adverse outcomes. Clinicians should be prepared to act promptly when an event occurs. Thorough incident documentation helps determine whether infusion care meets the standard of practice and is a keystone to medicolegal defense.

  11. Damaging role of neutrophilic infiltration in a mouse model of progressive tuberculosis.

    PubMed

    Marzo, Elena; Vilaplana, Cristina; Tapia, Gustavo; Diaz, Jorge; Garcia, Vanessa; Cardona, Pere-Joan

    2014-01-01

    Tuberculosis was studied using an experimental model based on the C3HeB/FeJ mouse strain, which mimics the liquefaction of caseous necrosis occurring during active disease in immunocompetent adults. Mice were intravenously infected with 2 × 10(4) Colony Forming Units of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and their histopathology, immune response, bacillary load, and survival were evaluated. The effects of the administration of drugs with anti-inflammatory activity were examined, and the C3H/HeN mouse strain was also included for comparative purposes. Massive intra-alveolar neutrophilic infiltration led to rapid granuloma growth and coalescence of lesions into superlesions. A central necrotic area appeared showing progressive cellular destruction, the alveoli cell walls being initially conserved (caseous necrosis) but finally destroyed (liquefactive necrosis). Increasing levels of pro-inflammatory mediators were detected in lungs. C3HeB/FeJ treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and C3H/HeN animals presented lower levels of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-17, IL-6 and CXCL5, a lower bacillary load, better histopathology, and increased survival compared with untreated C3HeB/FeJ. The observation of massive neutrophilic infiltration suggests that inflammation may be a key factor in progression towards active tuberculosis. On the basis of our findings, we consider that the C3HeB/FeJ mouse model would be useful for evaluating new therapeutic strategies against human tuberculosis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. ACONITE-INDUCED VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA DURING RADIATION SICKNESS (in French)

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

    Jurkovic, V.; Vokrouhlicky, L.; Belobradek, Z.

    1962-10-01

    In order to study cardiac excitability and the effects of procaine, ventricular tachycardia was induced by intramyocardial injection of 0.05 ml 50% aconite solution in irradiated and nonirradiated rabbits of both sexes. Tracheotomy and thoracotomy were performed to facilitate access to the heart and to establish artificial respiration through a tracheal tube. Narcosis was induced by urethane. Electrocardiograms were made at various stages in both control and irradiated animals; the former showed no change in preliminary phases of the experiment. Procaine was administered by subcutaneous injection, bilateral vagosympathetic infiltration, or slow intravenous infusion. Its therapeutic effect was determined by givingmore » it 5 min after trachycardia occurred, and its preventive action by giving it 5 min before. The x irradiation rate was 16.6 r/min, to a total dose of 1000 r. On the 3rd day after irradiation, the therapeutic effect of procaine after intramuscular injection was seen as a 50% normalization of heart action, with less by other routes of administration; its preventive effect was seen as a 58% normalization following slow intravenous infusion but was insignificant by other routes. Six days after irradiation, at the peak of radiation sickness, procaine's therapeutic and preventive actions had almost disappeared; its intravenous therapeutic application gave 25% normalization and its intramuscular preventive action provided 20% normalization of heart rate. However, on the 6th day, a profibrillatory effect was observed, especially in the therapeutic vagosympathetic infiltration technique and the preventive use by slow intravenous infusion. Suggested explanations of the reversal are: change in excitability of myocardium when it is irradiated, or change in effect of procaine when the whole organism is irradiated. Results favor the first explanation. (BBB)« less

  13. Comparison of analgesic efficacy and safety of continuous epidural infusion versus local infiltration and systemic opioids in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery decortication in pediatric empyema patients.

    PubMed

    Karnik, Priyanka Pradeep; Dave, Nandini Malay; Garasia, Madhu

    2018-01-01

    The stripping of the densely innervated and inflamed parietal pleura in empyema during video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) decortication can lead to significant pain and major postoperative respiratory compromise. Hence, we compared the analgesic efficacy of continuous epidural infusion versus local infiltration and systemic opioids in children undergoing VATS decortications. Following ethics approval and informed consent, forty patients from 1 to 12 years of age were randomized into two groups, Group E (epidural) and Group L (local infiltration) after induction of anesthesia. In Group E, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted between T4 and T8. A bolus dose of 0.5 ml/kg of 0.25% injection bupivacaine was given epidurally before incision. Postoperatively, the patients received epidural infusion with bupivacaine and fentanyl up to 48 h using an elastomeric balloon pump. In Group L, patients received local infiltration of bupivacaine (2 mg/kg) and lignocaine (5 mg/kg) at the port sites before incision and at the end of surgery. They also received injection tramadol 1 mg/kg intravenously TDS with thrice daily postoperatively. The pain scores (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability/ Wong-Baker FACES scale) were assessed every 4 h on the 1 st day and 6 h on the 2 nd day. Injection diclofenac 1 mg/kg intravenous was used as a rescue analgesic for pain scores more than 4. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and motor blockade were noted. Quantitative and categorical data were assessed using t -test and Chi-square test, respectively. The pain scores were lower in the epidural group than in the local infiltration group at 0, 4, and 20 h postoperatively ( P = 0.001, 0.01, and 0.038, respectively). Seventeen out of nineteen patients required rescue analgesia in the local infiltration group in the postoperative period as compared to five patients in the epidural group with a P value of 0.000081. Epidural analgesia can be considered as an effective modality of reducing pain in patients undergoing VATS decortication for empyema in pediatric patients.

  14. Identification of tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in esophageal cancer by multiphoton microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Jian; Jiang, Liwei; Kang, Deyong; Wu, Xuejing; Xu, Meifang; Zhuo, Shuangmu; Zhu, Xiaoqin; Lin, Jiangbo; Chen, Jianxin

    2016-10-01

    Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignancies of the gastrointestinal cancers and carries poorer prognosis than other gastrointestinal cancers. In general practice, the depth of tumor infiltration in esophageal wall is crucial to establishing appropriate treatment plan which is established by detecting the tumor infiltration depth. Connective tissue is one of the main structures that form the esophageal wall. So, identification of tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue is helping for detecting the tumor infiltration depth. Our aim is to evaluate whether multiphoton microscopy (MPM) can be used to detect tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in the esophageal cancer. MPM is well-suited for real-time detecting morphologic and cellular changes in fresh tissues since many endogenous fluorophores of fresh tissues are excited through two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG). In this work, microstructure of tumor cells and connective tissue are first studied. Then, morphological changes of collagen fibers after the infiltration of tumor cells are shown. These results show that MPM has the ability to detect tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in the esophageal cancer. In the future, MPM may be a promising imaging technique for detecting tumor cells in esophageal cancer.

  15. [Adult-onset Still's disease with pulmonary and cardiac involvement and response to intravenous immunoglobulin].

    PubMed

    Neto, Nilton Salles Rosa; Waldrich, Leandro; de Carvalho, Jozélio Freire; Pereira, Rosa Maria Rodrigues

    2009-01-01

    Cardiopulmonary manifestations of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) include pericarditis, pleural effusion, transient pulmonary infiltrates, pulmonary interstitial disease and myocarditis. Serositis are common but pneumonitis and myocarditis are not and bring elevated risk of mortality. They may manifest on disease onset or flares. Previously reported cases were treated with high-dose glucocorticoids and immunosupressants and, when refractory, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). We report an AOSD patient whose flare presented with severe pleupneumonitis and myopericarditis and, following nonresponse to a methylprednisolone pulse, high dose of prednisone and cyclosporine A, recovered after a 2-day 1g/kg/day IVIG infusion.

  16. The maternal to fetal transfer of immunoglobulins associated with placental lesions in sheep.

    PubMed Central

    Poitras, B J; Miller, R B; Wilkie, B N; Bosu, W T

    1986-01-01

    In this study we evaluated maternofetal transmission of immunoglobulins in ewes under conditions of altered placental morphology. Intravenous injection of human red blood cells was used to induce immunoglobulins in pregnant ewes. The hemagglutination test was used to detect antibody in maternal serum, fetal and placental fluids. Placental injury was induced by intravenous inoculation of Escherichia coli endotoxin or spores of Aspergillus fumigatus into pregnant ewes at days 99 or 100 of gestation respectively. Placental infarction, thrombosis of maternal placental vessels and variable neutrophil infiltrate characterized lesions produced by A. fumigatus. Endotoxin treated ewes developed marked placental edema, congestion, hemorrhage and focal loss of uterine epithelium. Human red blood cell agglutinating antibody was not detected in placental or fetal fluids obtained from ewes with either of the above placental lesions. Placentitis of undetermined etiology was observed in seven ewes. Two ewes had received A. fumigatus, two had received endotoxin and three were untreated ewes. Histological examination of their placentas revealed trophoblastic and endometrial epithelial necrosis and necrotizing vasculitis of the chorioallantois. Human red blood cell agglutinating antibody was detected only in the fetal and placental fluids of the seven ewes with these placental lesions. The nature of these lesions would have produced a functional confluence of the maternal and fetal circulations. Antibody transfer from dam to fetus was observed only in association with placental lesions which produced this confluence of circulations. The character of the placental lesions, rather than the mere presence of placental lesions apparently determined the transfer of immunoglobulins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. PMID:3742359

  17. Imaging macrophage distribution and density in mammary tumors and lung metastases using fluorine-19 MRI cell tracking.

    PubMed

    Makela, Ashley V; Foster, Paula J

    2018-09-01

    The presence of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) correlates with breast cancer progression and metastatic spread. Metastasis-associated macrophages (MAMs) are also recruited to distant sites, where they support metastatic growth. In this study, we demonstrate that in vivo fluorine-19 ( 19 F)-based MRI cell tracking can evaluate the density and distribution of macrophages within murine breast cancer tumors and associated metastases. Three murine breast cancer cell lines with different metastatic potentials (4T1, 168FARN, and 67NR) were implanted into the mammary fat pad in mice. In vivo whole body 19 F MRI was performed on tumor-bearing mice 24 hours post-intravenous injection of a perfluorocarbon (PFC) agent, which was taken up by macrophages in situ. TAMs were detected mainly in the periphery of primary tumors, and higher numbers of TAMs were detected in the more aggressive 4T1 tumors. Tumors had significantly greater 19 F spins/mm 3 when they were smaller, suggesting more TAM infiltration in early-stage tumors. 19 F signal was observed within lung metastases in mice with 4T1 tumors, and fluorescence microscopy confirmed the presence of PFC-positive macrophages. This study shows for the first time proof of the ability to use MRI cell tracking to visualize MAMs in the lungs. The ability to detect and monitor the number of TAMs in individual tumors with 19 F MRI would allow for identification of breast tumors with heavy infiltration of TAMs and could be used as a biomarker for decisions about how to best treat these patients as well as for monitoring responses to therapy. Magn Reson Med 80:1138-1147, 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  18. LOCAL PERIARTICULAR ANALGESIA IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

    PubMed Central

    Sadigursky, David; Simões, Daniel Pereira; de Albuquerque, Raphael Araújo; Silva, Monize Zórnio; Fernandes, Rogério Jamil Carneiro; Colavolpe, Paulo Oliveira

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the use of infiltration of periarticular analgesic agents intraoperatively in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), with regard to benefits, reduction of pain, opioid consumption, improvement of range of motion and early ambulation. Methods: To analyze the benefits of periarticular drug infiltration, the patients submitted to TKA were evaluated, being separated into two groups. One group received the local periarticular infiltration protocol containing 0.5% bupivacaine (400mg/20ml), 1/1000 epinephrine (0.3ml), triamcinolone hexacetonide (20mg/1ml), clonidine (150mcg/1ml) and 20 ml of saline (0.9% SS) and, the other group underwent conventional intravenous analgesia. The results were compared and the variables analyzed were age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, postoperative complications, pain, functional capacity, range of motion, transfusion and rescue opioids for analgesia. Results: The mean age of the patients was 68 years and most were female and presented involvement of the left knee. Postoperatively, patients who had received periarticular infiltration showed improvement of pain as well as functional capacity. Conclusion: The analysis of data obtained demonstrated that the periarticular infiltration of analgesic agents is significantly effective for pain control and functional recovery.Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study. PMID:28642656

  19. Fluorine MR Imaging Monitoring of Tumor Inflammation after High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation.

    PubMed

    Shin, Soo Hyun; Park, Sang Hyun; Kim, Seung Won; Kim, Minsun; Kim, Daehong

    2018-05-01

    Purpose To investigate whether high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)-induced macrophage infiltration could be longitudinally monitored with fluorine 19 ( 19 F) magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in a quantitative manner. Materials and Methods BALB/c mice were subcutaneously inoculated with 4T1 cells and were separated into three groups: untreated mice (control, n = 9), HIFU-treated mice (HIFU, n = 9), and HIFU- and clodronate-treated mice (HIFU+Clod, n = 9). Immediately after HIFU treatment, all mice were intravenously given perfluorocarbon (PFC) emulsion. MR imaging examinations were performed 2, 4, 7, 10, and 14 days after HIFU treatment. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyze the changes in 19 F signal over time and differences between groups. Histologic examinations were performed to confirm in vivo data. Results Fluorine 19 signals were detected at the rims of tumors and the peripheries of ablated lesions. Mean 19 F signal in tumors was significantly higher in HIFU-treated mice than in control mice up to day 4 (0.82 ± 0.26 vs 0.42 ± 0.17, P < .001). Fluorine 19 signals were higher in the HIFU+Clod group than in the control group from day 4 (0.82 ± 0.23, P < .001) to day 14 (0.55 ± 0.16 vs 0.28 ± 0.06, P < .05). Histologic examination revealed macrophage infiltration around ablated lesions. Immunofluorescence staining confirmed PFC labeling of macrophages. Conclusion Fluorine 19 MR imaging can longitudinally capture and quantify HIFU-induced macrophage infiltration in preclinical tumor models. © RSNA, 2018 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

  20. [Preliminary establishment of transplanted human chronic myeloid leukemia model in nude mice].

    PubMed

    Li, Xian-Min; Ding, Xin; Zhang, Long-Zhen; Cen, Jian-Nong; Chen, Zi-Xing

    2011-12-01

    Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a malignant clonal disease derived from hematopoietic stem cells. CML stem cells were thought to be the root which could lead disease development and ultimately rapid change. However, a stable animal model for studying the characteristics of CML stem cells is currently lacking. This study was aimed to establish a transplanted human CML nude-mice model to further explore the biological behavior of CML stem cells in vivo, and to enrich CML stem cells in nude mice by series transplantation. The 4 - 6 weeks old BALB/c nude mice pretreated by splenectomy (S), cytoxan intraperitoneal injection (C) and sublethal irradiation (I) were transplanted intravenously with (5 - 7) × 10(7) of bone marrow mononuclear cells from CML patients in chronic phase. Alternatively, 4 - 6 weeks old BALB/c nude mice pretreated by lethal irradiation were transplanted intravenously with 5 × 10(6) homologous bone marrow cells of BALB/c nude mice together with (5 - 7) × 10(7) of bone marrow mononuclear cells from CML patients in chronic phase simultaneously. The leukemic cells engrafted and infiltrated in organs and bone marrow of the mice were tracked by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), plastic-embedded biopsy and flow cytometry. The results of these two methods were compared. The results showed that human CML cells engrafted and infiltrating into the bone marrow of two nude mice pretreated with SCI could be detected. In spite of the low successful rate, results suggested the feasibility of this method by using BALB/c nude mice as a human CML animal model. In contrast, in nude mice pretreated by the lethal dose irradiation, CML cells in the bone marrow could not be found. It is concluded that human bone marrow CML cells can results in leukemia in nude mice pretreated by SCI. Thus this study provides a new strategy for establishment of CML animal models which deserves further elaboration.

  1. A single dose of peripherally infused EGFRvIII-directed CAR T cells mediates antigen loss and induces adaptive resistance in patients with recurrent glioblastoma.

    PubMed

    O'Rourke, Donald M; Nasrallah, MacLean P; Desai, Arati; Melenhorst, Jan J; Mansfield, Keith; Morrissette, Jennifer J D; Martinez-Lage, Maria; Brem, Steven; Maloney, Eileen; Shen, Angela; Isaacs, Randi; Mohan, Suyash; Plesa, Gabriela; Lacey, Simon F; Navenot, Jean-Marc; Zheng, Zhaohui; Levine, Bruce L; Okada, Hideho; June, Carl H; Brogdon, Jennifer L; Maus, Marcela V

    2017-07-19

    We conducted a first-in-human study of intravenous delivery of a single dose of autologous T cells redirected to the epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) mutation by a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). We report our findings on the first 10 recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) patients treated. We found that manufacturing and infusion of CAR-modified T cell (CART)-EGFRvIII cells are feasible and safe, without evidence of off-tumor toxicity or cytokine release syndrome. One patient has had residual stable disease for over 18 months of follow-up. All patients demonstrated detectable transient expansion of CART-EGFRvIII cells in peripheral blood. Seven patients had post-CART-EGFRvIII surgical intervention, which allowed for tissue-specific analysis of CART-EGFRvIII trafficking to the tumor, phenotyping of tumor-infiltrating T cells and the tumor microenvironment in situ, and analysis of post-therapy EGFRvIII target antigen expression. Imaging findings after CART immunotherapy were complex to interpret, further reinforcing the need for pathologic sampling in infused patients. We found trafficking of CART-EGFRvIII cells to regions of active GBM, with antigen decrease in five of these seven patients. In situ evaluation of the tumor environment demonstrated increased and robust expression of inhibitory molecules and infiltration by regulatory T cells after CART-EGFRvIII infusion, compared to pre-CART-EGFRvIII infusion tumor specimens. Our initial experience with CAR T cells in recurrent GBM suggests that although intravenous infusion results in on-target activity in the brain, overcoming the adaptive changes in the local tumor microenvironment and addressing the antigen heterogeneity may improve the efficacy of EGFRvIII-directed strategies in GBM. Copyright © 2017 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works.

  2. [Spiral CT of the head-neck area: the advantages of the early arterial phase in the detection of squamous-cell carcinomas].

    PubMed

    Conrad, R; Pauleit, D; Layer, G; Kandyba, J; Kohlbecher, R; Hortling, N; Baselides, P; Schild, H

    1999-07-01

    To determine if scanning in the arterial phase improves detection of squamous cell carcinomas in the pharynx and larynx. In a prospective clinical study 20 patients with a pharyngeal or laryngeal carcinoma were examined with by spiral CT. 80 ml lopromid were intravenously injected as a bolus with a rate of 3 ml/sec. Two consecutive spiral CT scans were performed with start-delay times of 20 and 70 seconds respectively. Delineation and contrast enhancement of tumours, cervical lymph nodes and vessels were evaluated. The radiodensities (HU) of tumors, lymph nodes vessels, pharyngeal wall and muscle were measured. Comparing early and late start delay time scans tumor assessment in the early phase was better in 58%, less in 16% and equal in both scans in 26%. 82% of the pathologic lymph nodes had more peripheral enhancement than surrounding muscle tissue. During the arterial phase the measured radiodensities of the common carotid artery and jugular vein were significantly higher than in the second phase. Contrast-enhanced special CT permits accurate morphologic assessment (size, infiltration) of pharyngeal and supraglottic laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, while pathologic lymph nodes already have a sufficient contrast enhancement for the detection.

  3. Quality improvement project to reduce infiltration and extravasation events in a pediatric hospital.

    PubMed

    Tofani, Barbara F; Rineair, Sylvia A; Gosdin, Craig H; Pilcher, Patricia M; McGee, Susan; Varadarajan, Kartik R; Schoettker, Pamela J

    2012-12-01

    A safety event response team at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center developed and tested improvement strategies to reduce peripheral intravenous (PIV) infiltration and extravasation injuries. Improvement activities included development of the touch-look-compare method for hourly PIV site assessment, staff education and mandatory demonstration of PIV site assessment, and performance monitoring and sharing of compliance results. We observed a significant reduction in the injury rate immediately following implementation of the interventions that corresponded with monitoring compliance in performing hourly assessments on patients with a PIV, but this was not sustained. The team is currently examining other strategies to reduce PIV injuries. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Giant cell phlebitis: a potentially lethal clinical entity.

    PubMed

    Kunieda, Takeshige; Murayama, Masanori; Ikeda, Tsuneko; Yamakita, Noriyoshi

    2012-08-01

    An 83-year-old woman presented to us with a 4-week history of general malaise, subjective fever and lower abdominal pain. Despite the intravenous infusion of antibiotics, her blood results and physical condition worsened, resulting in her sudden death. Autopsy study revealed that the medium-sized veins of the mesentery were infiltrated by eosinophil granulocytes, lymphocytes, macrophages and multinucleated giant cells; however, the arteries were not involved. Microscopically, venous giant cell infiltration was observed in the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, retroperitoneal tissues and myocardium. The final diagnosis was giant cell phlebitis, a rare disease of unknown aetiology. This case demonstrates for the first time that giant cell phlebitis involving extra-abdominal organs, including hearts, can cause serious morbidity.

  5. Use of intravenous lipid emulsion to reverse central nervous system toxicity of an iatrogenic local anesthetic overdose in a patient on peritoneal dialysis.

    PubMed

    Lange, D Bruce; Schwartz, Daniel; DaRoza, Gerald; Gair, Robert

    2012-12-01

    To describe a case of severe central nervous system toxicity after an overdose of lidocaine by local infiltration in a peritoneal dialysis patient and subsequent treatment of the toxicity with lipid emulsion. A 31-year-old male received an iatrogenic overdose of 1600 mg of lidocaine 2% by infiltration during an attempt to remove and replace a peritoneal dialysis catheter. Within 10 minutes after the last lidocaine injection, the patient exhibited features of local anesthetic toxicity, which included tachycardia, hypertension, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a choking sensation that progressed to hallucinations, dysarthria, and uncoordinated, weak limb movement. Within 10 minutes after administration of a single 1.5-mg/kg intravenous bolus of 1.5 mL/kg [corrected], the patient improved dramatically. After observation overnight in a monitored care setting, the patient was discharged home with no apparent neurologic sequelae. Systemic toxicity due to regional anesthesia with local anesthetic agents such as lidocaine has been well described in the medical literature. The use of lipid emulsion as an antidote to the toxicity of local anesthetics and other lipophilic drugs has been suggested as a valuable intervention in both early, rapidly progressive toxicity, as well as toxicity that is refractory to standard treatment. Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease may be more susceptible to systemic effects of lidocaine due to decreased drug elimination. Central nervous system toxicity due to an overdose of lidocaine was quickly reversed by intravenous lipid emulsion in our patient.

  6. Identification of highly concentrated dextrose solution (50% dextrose) extravasation and treatment--a clinical report.

    PubMed

    Lawson, Sarah L; Brady, William; Mahmoud, Ahmed

    2013-05-01

    Treatment for significant hypoglycemia includes administration of dextrose containing agents, including 50% dextrose (D50%W) intravenously. Significant extravasation of D50%W can lead to complications, including skin and soft tissue injury, loss of limb, or death. The aim of this case report, using an interdisciplinary team approach, explores extravasation protocols as well as literature review, is to provide information about the proper use of hyaluronidase in patients with D50%W extravasations. A 46-year-old African American man presented to the emergency department (ED) after blood glucose level was initially 13 mg/dL. Emergency medical service established a large bore intravenous (IV) line in the right antecubital vein and administered a total of 50 g of D50%W. Upon arrival to the ED, the patient's level of consciousness had significantly improved. After arrival to the ED, the patient started complaining of pain in his right arm, near the site of the IV line insertion. On inspection, the IV site was grossly infiltrated. Hospital protocols for hyperosmolar infiltration were used. Extravasation is a common medical complication of infused medications and needs to be properly identified and treated. The multitude of skills from nursing, medicine, and pharmacy ensures that extravasation is managed appropriately and effectively to ensure safety to patients. Recognition, communication, and awareness of the institutional guidelines on how to treat infiltration and extravasation should be encouraged in all ED and intensive care unit medical personnel who deal with a variety of infusions and IV medications that have serious implications if not treated correctly.

  7. IN VIVO EVALUATION OF SAFETY OF NANOPOROUS SILICON CARRIERS FOLLOWING SINGLE AND MULTIPLE DOSE INTRAVENOUS ADMINISTRATIONS IN MICE

    PubMed Central

    Tanaka, T.; Godin, B.; Bhavane, R.; Nieves-Alicea, R.; Gu, J.; Liu, X.; Chiappini, C.; Fakhoury, J. R.; Amra, S.; Ewing, A.; Li, Q.; Fidler, I.J.; Ferrari, M.

    2010-01-01

    Porous silicon (pSi) is being extensively studied as an emerging material for use in biomedical applications, including drug delivery, based on the biodegradability and versatile chemical and biophysical properties. We have recently introduced multistage nanoporous silicon microparticles (S1MP) designed as a cargo for nanocarrier drug delivery to enable the loaded therapeutics and diagnostics to sequential overcoming of the biological barriers to reach their target. In this first report on biocompatibility of intravenously administered pSi structures, we examined biocompatibility of negatively (−32.5±3.1mV) and positively (8.7±2.5mV) charged S1MP in acute single dose (107, 108, 5×108 S1MP/animal) and subchronic multiple dose (108 S1MP/animal/week for 4 weeks) administration schedules. Our data demonstrate that S1MP did not change plasma levels of renal (BUN and creatinine) and hepatic (LDH) biomarkers as well as23 plasma cytokines. LDH plasma levels of 145.2±23.6, 115.4±29.1 vs. 127.0±10.4; and 155.8±38.4, 135.5±52.3 vs. 178.4±74.6 were detected in mice treated with 108 negatively charged S1MP, 108 positively charged S1MP vs. saline control in single and multiple dose schedules, respectively. The S1MPs did not alter LDH levels in liver and spleen, nor lead to infiltration of leukocytes into the liver, spleen, kidney, lung, brain, heart, and thyroid. Collectively, these data provide evidence of a safe intravenous administration of S1MPs as a drug delivery carrier. PMID:20883755

  8. Lupus pneumonitis as the initial presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus: case series from a single institution.

    PubMed

    Wan, S A; Teh, C L; Jobli, A T

    2016-11-01

    Objective The aim of this study was to examine the clinical features, treatment and outcome of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in our centre who presented with lupus pneumonitis as the initial manifestation. Methods We performed a retrospective review of all patients who presented with lupus pneumonitis during the initial SLE manifestation from March 2006 to March 2015. Results There were a total of five patients in our study who presented with fever and cough as the main clinical features. All patients had pulmonary infiltrates on chest radiographs. High-resolution computed tomography, which was performed in two patients, showed ground glass opacities with patchy consolidations bilaterally. All patients received high-dose steroids, 80% received intravenous cyclophosphamide and 60% received intravenous immunoglobulin. Two patients died from severe lupus pneumonitis within 2 weeks of admission despite treatment with ventilation, steroids, cyclophosphamide and intravenous immunoglobulin. Conclusions Acute lupus pneumonitis is an uncommon presentation of SLE. Mortality in this case series is 40%.

  9. Giant cell phlebitis: a potentially lethal clinical entity

    PubMed Central

    Kunieda, Takeshige; Murayama, Masanori; Ikeda, Tsuneko; Yamakita, Noriyoshi

    2012-01-01

    An 83-year-old woman presented to us with a 4-week history of general malaise, subjective fever and lower abdominal pain. Despite the intravenous infusion of antibiotics, her blood results and physical condition worsened, resulting in her sudden death. Autopsy study revealed that the medium-sized veins of the mesentery were infiltrated by eosinophil granulocytes, lymphocytes, macrophages and multinucleated giant cells; however, the arteries were not involved. Microscopically, venous giant cell infiltration was observed in the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, retroperitoneal tissues and myocardium. The final diagnosis was giant cell phlebitis, a rare disease of unknown aetiology. This case demonstrates for the first time that giant cell phlebitis involving extra-abdominal organs, including hearts, can cause serious morbidity. PMID:22859384

  10. Multi organ failure following intravenous gasoline for suicide: a case report.

    PubMed

    Mahmoodpoor, Ata; Soleimanpour, Hassan; Hamishehkar, Hadi

    2012-01-01

    Hydrocarbons are ubiquitous in daily life and include plant and animal fats, alcohols, solvents, natural gas, petroleum derivates. Majority of intoxication reports of hydrocarbons are due to inhalation or ingestion, but there is few reports about intravenous injection of gasoline. We report a 58 year-old man who injected gasoline intravenously for suicide. He developed soft tissue necrosis of forearm and bilateral pulmonary infiltration. He underwent fasciotomy and extensive debridement of necrotic tissues, at the operation room. He was intubated and mechanically ventilated because of acute lung injury. He developed acute kidney injury after 2 days. These symptoms seem to be due to extravasation of gasoline from vessels which lead to inflammation, cell damage and organ failure. The patient developed multi organ failure which unfortunately did not respond to our treatment and he died at day 21. Management of gasoline intoxication depends on the rout of exposure. Like other types of toxications, intravenous toxication has pulmonary involvement, however in this case we had multiple organ involvement. It seems that in such cases we should consider early end organ targeted therapy to stop the future organ failure. © 2012 Tehran University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.

  11. Early Identification of Aortic Valve Sclerosis Using Iron Oxide Enhanced MRI

    PubMed Central

    Hamilton, Amanda M.; Rogers, Kem A.; Belisle, Andre J.L.; Ronald, John A.; Rutt, Brian K.; Weissleder, Ralph; Boughner, Derek R.

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To test the ability of MION-47 enhanced MRI to identify tissue macrophage infiltration in a rabbit model of aortic valve sclerosis (AVS). Materials and Methods The aortic valves of control and cholesterol-fed New Zealand White rabbits were imaged in vivo pre- and 48 h post-intravenous administration of MION-47 using a 1.5 Tesla (T) MR clinical scanner and a CINE fSPGR sequence. MION-47 aortic valve cusps were imaged ex vivo on a 3.0T whole-body MR system with a custom gradient insert coil and a three-dimensional (3D) FIESTA sequence and compared with aortic valve cusps from control and cholesterol-fed contrast-free rabbits. Histopathological analysis was performed to determine the site of iron oxide uptake. Results MION-47 enhanced the visibility of both control and cholesterol-fed rabbit valves in in vivo images. Ex vivo image analysis confirmed the presence of significant signal voids in contrast-administered aortic valves. Signal voids were not observed in contrast-free valve cusps. In MION-47 administered rabbits, histopathological analysis revealed iron staining not only in fibrosal macrophages of cholesterol-fed valves but also in myofibroblasts from control and cholesterol-fed valves. Conclusion Although iron oxide labeling of macrophage infiltration in AVS has the potential to detect the disease process early, a macrophage-specific iron compound rather than passive targeting may be required. PMID:20027578

  12. Complication Rates of 3% Hypertonic Saline Infusion Through Peripheral Intravenous Access.

    PubMed

    Perez, Claudia Andira; Figueroa, Stephen A

    2017-06-01

    Hyperosmolar therapy with hypertonic saline (HTS) is a cornerstone in the management of intracranial hypertension and hyponatremia in the neurological intensive care unit. Theoretical safety concerns remain for infiltration, thrombophlebitis, tissue ischemia, and venous thrombosis associated with continuous 3% HTS administered via peripheral intravenous (pIV) catheters. It is common practice at many institutions to allow only central venous catheter infusion of 3% HTS. Hospital policy was changed to allow the administration of 3% HTS via 16- to 20-gauge pIVs to a maximum infusion rate of 50 mL/h in patients without central venous access. We prospectively monitored patients who received peripheral 3% HTS as part of a quality improvement project. We documented gauge, location, maximum infusion rate, and total hours of administration. Patients were assessed for infiltration, erythema, swelling, phlebitis, thrombosis, and line infection. There were 28 subjects across 34 peripheral lines monitored. Overall, subjects received 3% HTS for a duration between 1 and 124 hours with infusion rates of 30 to 50 mL/h. The rate of complications observed was 10.7% among all subjects. Documented complications included infiltration (n = 2), with an incidence of 6%, and thrombophlebitis (n = 1), with an incidence of 3%. There has been a long concern among healthcare providers, including nursing staff, in regard to pIV administration of prolonged 3% HTS infusion therapy. Our study indicates that peripheral administration of 3% HTS carries a low risk of minor, nonlimb, or life-threatening complications. Although central venous infusion may reduce the risk of these minor complications, it may increase the risk of more serious complications such as large vessel thrombosis, bloodstream infection, pneumothorax, and arterial injury. The concern regarding the risks of pIV administration of 3% HTS may be overstated and unfounded.

  13. Preincisional intraparietal Augmentin in abdominal operations.

    PubMed Central

    Pollock, A. V.; Evans, M.; Smith, G. M.

    1989-01-01

    A total of 624 consecutive eligible patients undergoing abdominal operations received a single preoperative dose of amoxycillin/clavulanic acid (1.2 g Augmentin) for the prophylaxis of surgical wound infection. They were randomised to have the antibiotic injected intravenously at induction of anaesthesia (n = 328) or infiltrated subcutaneously along the line of the proposed incision (n = 296). The incidence of wound infections was considerably lower in the group given the antibiotic into the abdominal wall (8.4% compared with 15.9%--chi 2 = 7.90, P = 0.005). No significant differences were found in the incidence of other major or minor infective or non-infective postoperative complications between the groups. It is concluded that preincisional intraparietal injection is more effective than intravenous injection of Augmentin for the prophylaxis of surgical wound infection. PMID:2523210

  14. Porphyrin-laser photodynamic induction of focal brain necrosis

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

    Stroop, W.G.; Battles, E.J.; Townsend, J.J.

    A noninvasive photodynamic method has been developed to produce focal brain necrosis using porphyrin activated in vivo with laser light. After peripheral injection of the photosensitive porphyrin derivative, Photofrin I, mice were irradiated on the posterior lateral aspect of the head through the intact depilated scalp with 632 nm argon-dye laser light. Animals were studied at one, two and seven days after irradiation. Blood-brain barrier damage was detected by the intravenous injection of Evans blue, horseradish peroxidase and heterologous immunoglobulins. At one and two days after irradiation, the lesions were characterized by extravasation of immunoglobulin and Evans blue, and bymore » edema, ischemia and infiltration by monocytes. On the seventh day after irradiation, the lesion was smaller than it had been two days after irradiation, and had reactive changes at its edges and coagulative necrosis at its center. Extravasation of Evans blue and immunoglobulin was markedly reduced by the seventh day after irradiation, but uptake of horseradish peroxidase by macrophages located at the periphery of the lesion was evident.« less

  15. Human Herpesvirus-6 cytopathic inclusions: an exceptional and recognizable finding on skin biopsy during HHV6 reactivation after autologous stem-cell transplantation.

    PubMed

    Roux, Jennifer; Battistella, Maxime; Fornecker, Luc; Legoff, Jérôme; Deau, Bénédicte; Houhou, Nadira; Bouaziz, Jean-David; Thieblemont, Catherine; Janin, Anne

    2012-08-01

    Skin rash are common in immunocompromised patients, particularly after bone marrow transplantation. Human herpes virus 6 (HHV6) reactivation is often suspected, but its clinical presentation and the routine laboratory tests may be unspecific, thus leading to late diagnosis. In this case, we report specific intralymphocytic cytopathic inclusions on skin biopsy as a sign of systemic HHV6 reactivation. A 56-year-old patient presented progressive erythroderma and fever occurring after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation for mantle cell lymphoma. The skin biopsy showed a perivascular infiltrate of medium-to-large lymphocytes with irregular nuclei containing a large central basophilic inclusion surrounded by a clear halo. High levels of HHV-6 genomic in skin biopsy confirm HHV-6-induced cytopathic effect. The clinical course improved with intravenous foscavir. The specific histopathological findings encountered in this case are exceptional but recognizable, and along with HHV-6 DNA detection allow a prompt recognition of HHV6 skin rash.

  16. Acute Toxicity of Amorphous Silica Nanoparticles in Intravenously Exposed ICR Mice

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Wen; Jin, Minghua; Du, Zhongjun; Li, Yanbo; Duan, Junchao; Yu, Yongbo; Sun, Zhiwei

    2013-01-01

    This study aimed to evaluate the acute toxicity of intravenously administrated amorphous silica nanoparticles (SNPs) in mice. The lethal dose, 50 (LD50), of intravenously administrated SNPs was calculated in mice using Dixon's up-and-down method (262.45±33.78 mg/kg). The acute toxicity was evaluated at 14 d after intravenous injection of SNPs at 29.5, 103.5 and 177.5 mg/kg in mice. A silicon content analysis using ICP-OES found that SNPs mainly distributed in the resident macrophages of the liver (10.24%ID/g), spleen (34.78%ID/g) and lung (1.96%ID/g). TEM imaging showed only a small amount in the hepatocytes of the liver and in the capillary endothelial cells of the lung and kidney. The levels of serum LDH, AST and ALT were all elevated in the SNP treated groups. A histological examination showed lymphocytic infiltration, granuloma formation, and hydropic degeneration in liver hepatocytes; megakaryocyte hyperplasia in the spleen; and pneumonemia and pulmonary interstitial thickening in the lung of the SNP treated groups. A CD68 immunohistochemistry stain indicated SNPs induced macrophage proliferation in the liver and spleen. The results suggest injuries induced by the SNPs in the liver, spleen and lungs. Mononuclear phagocytic cells played an important role in the injury process. PMID:23593469

  17. Intravenous Infiltration Risk by Catheter Dwell Time Among Hospitalized Children.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Ihn Sook; Jeon, Gey Rok; Lee, Man Seop; Shin, Bum Joo; Kim, Yong-Jin; Park, Soon Mi; Hyun, Sookyung

    This study was aimed to examine the cumulative risk for infiltration over IV catheter dwell time by general or catheterization-specific characteristics of pediatric patients with IV therapy. This secondary data analysis was done with the data of 1596 children who received peripheral IV therapy at least once during their hospital stay between August 1st and October 30th, 2011 and in June, 2013 in an academic medical center, Yangsan, Republic of Korea. The survival functions of infiltration were determined by using the Kaplan-Meier analysis. The cumulative risk for infiltration had rapidly increased from 1.5% after 24 hours of catheter dwell time to 17.3% after 96 hours. The survival functions were significantly different in the medical than in the surgical department (p=.005), lower extremities than upper ones (p=.001), and use of 10% dextrose (p=.001), ampicillin/sulbactam (p<.001), vancomycin (p=.024), high-concentration electrolytes (p=.001), and phenytoin (p<.001). When catheter dwell times are similar, the cumulative risk for infiltration was higher in cases wherein the patient had a risk factor. The cumulative risk for infiltration has rapidly increased after 24 hours in patients who have 10% dextrose, high-concentration electrolytes, and phenytoin. The results suggest that nurses are required to assess the IV site every hour after 24 hours of catheter dwell time for the infusion of irritants for a safer practice of IV therapy. However, this monitoring time may be modified by the age of child, previous IV complications, and/or hemodynamic issues which may impact IV integrity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. [Headache as a manifestation of SAPHO syndrome with a lesion extending to the dura mater, parietal bone, and temporal muscle].

    PubMed

    Uematsu, Miho; Tobisawa, Shinsuke; Nagao, Masahiro; Matsubara, Shiro; Mizutani, Toshio; Shibuya, Makoto

    2012-01-01

    A 50-year-old woman with a history of palmoplantar pustulosis, femur osteomyelitis, and sterno-costo-clavicular hyperostosis presented with a chronic severe left temporal headache that had progressed during the previous year. Her CRP level was elevated. Cranial images showed Gadolinium-enhancement of the left temporal muscle, left parietal bone and dura mater. (99m)Tc-HMDP scintigram showed increased uptake in the left parietal bone, left sterno-costo-clavicular joint, right femoral head and intervertebral joints. Biopsy of the lesion demonstrated 1) proliferation of connective tissue in both perimysium and endomysium of the temporal muscle with mild inflammatory cell infiltration within the interstitium, 2) marked infiltration of granulocytes to the bone marrow of the parietal bone, 3) necrosis and moderate fibrosis in the interstitium with inflammatory cell infiltration in the parietal bone, and 4) moderate fibrosis and slight infiltration of inflammatory cells in the dura mater. The patient was diagnosed with a cranial lesion of synovitis-acne-pustulosis-hyperostosis-osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome. There was a moderate response to treatment with intravenous steroid pulse therapy and subsequent methotrexate. In a case of headache accompanied by inflammatory response, palmoplantar pustulosis and joint lesions such as hyperostosis, the possibility of a rare cranial manifestation of SAPHO syndrome should be considered.

  19. Pharmacologic Effects of Cannabidiol on Acute Reperfused Myocardial Infarction in Rabbits: Evaluated With 3.0T Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Histopathology.

    PubMed

    Feng, Yuanbo; Chen, Feng; Yin, Ting; Xia, Qian; Liu, Yewei; Huang, Gang; Zhang, Jian; Oyen, Raymond; Ni, Yicheng

    2015-10-01

    Cannabidiol (CBD) has anti-inflammatory effects. We explored its therapeutic effects on cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury with an experimental imaging platform. Reperfused acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was induced in rabbits with a 90-minute coronary artery occlusion followed by 24-hour reperfusion. Before reperfusion, rabbits received 2 intravenous doses of 100 μg/kg CBD (n = 10) or vehicle (control, n = 10). Evans blue was intravenously injected for later detection of the AMI core. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed to evaluate cardiac morphology and function. After euthanasia, blood troponin I (cTnI) was assessed, and the heart was excised and infused with multifunctional red iodized oil dye. The heart was sliced for digital radiography to quantify the perfusion density rate, area at risk (AAR), and myocardial salvage index, followed by histomorphologic staining. Compared with controls, CBD treatment improved systolic wall thickening (P < 0.05), significantly increased blood flow in the AAR (P < 0.05), significantly decreased microvascular obstruction (P < 0.05), increased the perfusion density rate by 1.7-fold, lowered the AMI core/AAR ratio (P < 0.05), and increased the myocardial salvage index (P < 0.05). These improvements were associated with reductions in serum cTnI, cardiac leukocyte infiltration, and myocellular apoptosis (P < 0.05). Thus, CBD therapy reduced AMI size and facilitated restoration of left ventricular function. We demonstrated that this experimental platform has potential theragnostic utility.

  20. First case of fungal keratitis caused by Pestalotiopsis clavispora.

    PubMed

    Monden, Yu; Yamamoto, Shohaku; Yamakawa, Ryoji; Sunada, Atsuko; Asari, Seishi; Makimura, Koichi; Inoue, Yoshitsugu

    2013-01-01

    To report the isolation of Pestalotiopsis clavispora from the cornea of a patient with recurrent keratitis. A 73-year-old male gardener presented with conjunctival injection and an oval infiltrate with feathery margins in the temporal half of the cornea in the right eye. His ocular history in the right eye included cataract surgery, five episodes of herpes simplex keratitis, three glaucoma surgeries, and bullous keratopathy. He had been treated with corticosteroids for years. Light microscopy of corneal scrapings revealed a filamentous fungus, and fungal keratitis was diagnosed. Treatment with topical voriconazole and pimaricin ointment was commenced. One month later, the infiltrate resolved. The antifungal agents were discontinued 7 months later, and keratitis relapsed 4 days after the discontinuation. The fungus was isolated and identified by molecular techniques as P. clavispora. Based on the results of antifungal susceptibility testing, treatment with topical and intravenous micafungin was initiated. The corneal infiltrate resolved 1 month after the relapse. Molecular identification of the pathogen, and antifungal susceptibility testing, are useful in treating patients with fungal keratitis caused by a rare human pathogen.

  1. First case of fungal keratitis caused by Pestalotiopsis clavispora

    PubMed Central

    Monden, Yu; Yamamoto, Shohaku; Yamakawa, Ryoji; Sunada, Atsuko; Asari, Seishi; Makimura, Koichi; Inoue, Yoshitsugu

    2013-01-01

    Purpose To report the isolation of Pestalotiopsis clavispora from the cornea of a patient with recurrent keratitis. Case report A 73-year-old male gardener presented with conjunctival injection and an oval infiltrate with feathery margins in the temporal half of the cornea in the right eye. His ocular history in the right eye included cataract surgery, five episodes of herpes simplex keratitis, three glaucoma surgeries, and bullous keratopathy. He had been treated with corticosteroids for years. Light microscopy of corneal scrapings revealed a filamentous fungus, and fungal keratitis was diagnosed. Treatment with topical voriconazole and pimaricin ointment was commenced. One month later, the infiltrate resolved. The antifungal agents were discontinued 7 months later, and keratitis relapsed 4 days after the discontinuation. The fungus was isolated and identified by molecular techniques as P. clavispora. Based on the results of antifungal susceptibility testing, treatment with topical and intravenous micafungin was initiated. The corneal infiltrate resolved 1 month after the relapse. Conclusion Molecular identification of the pathogen, and antifungal susceptibility testing, are useful in treating patients with fungal keratitis caused by a rare human pathogen. PMID:24348013

  2. Simple and rapid analysis of endocrine disruptors in liquid medicines and intravenous injection solutions by automated in-tube solid-phase microextraction/high performance liquid chromatography.

    PubMed

    Mitani, Kurie; Narimatsu, Shizuo; Izushi, Fumio; Kataoka, Hiroyuki

    2003-07-14

    A simple and rapid method was developed for analyzing contamination of endocrine disruptors in liquid medicines and intravenous injection solutions. Endocrine disrupting compounds such as bisphenol A (BPA), alkylphenols and phthalates were quantitated by on-line in-tube solid-phase microextraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography (in-tube SPME/HPLC) with UV detection. The liquid medicines and intravenous injection solutions could be used directly without any pretreatment, and the BPA, alkylphenols and phthalates in these solutions were automatically analyzed. The limits of quantification for these compounds were 1-10 ng/ml. Recoveries of these compounds spiked to the intravenous injection solutions was over 80%, except for some phthalates. Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) was detected at a concentration of 7-60 ng/ml in most intravenous injection solutions in plastic containers, but it was not detected in solutions in glass bottles. Diethyl phthalate, di-n-propyl phthalate, DBP and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) were also detected in syrup, lotion and eye drops in plastic containers. On the other hand, BPA and alkylphenols were not detected at all in these solutions. DEHP contamination from an administration set increased when total vitamin formulation was added to the infusion solution. DEHP was easily leached from polyvinyl chloride tubing by polysorbate 80. The in-tube SPME/HPLC method is simple, rapid and automatic, and it provides a useful tool for the screening and determination of endocrine disruptor contamination in liquid medicines and intravenous injection solutions.

  3. Long-term stormwater quantity and quality performance of permeable pavement systems.

    PubMed

    Brattebo, Benjamin O; Booth, Derek B

    2003-11-01

    This study examined the long-term effectiveness of permeable pavement as an alternative to traditional impervious asphalt pavement in a parking area. Four commercially available permeable pavement systems were evaluated after 6 years of daily parking usage for structural durability, ability to infiltrate precipitation, and impacts on infiltrate water quality. All four permeable pavement systems showed no major signs of wear. Virtually all rainwater infiltrated through the permeable pavements, with almost no surface runoff. The infiltrated water had significantly lower levels of copper and zinc than the direct surface runoff from the asphalt area. Motor oil was detected in 89% of samples from the asphalt runoff but not in any water sample infiltrated through the permeable pavement. Neither lead nor diesel fuel were detected in any sample. Infiltrate measured 5 years earlier displayed significantly higher concentrations of zinc and significantly lower concentrations of copper and lead.

  4. Novel Method to Detect and Characterize 18F-FDG Infiltration at the Injection Site: A Single-Institution Experience.

    PubMed

    Muzaffar, Razi; Frye, Sarah A; McMunn, Anna; Ryan, Kelley; Lattanze, Ron; Osman, Medhat M

    2017-12-01

    A novel quality control and quality assurance device provides time-activity curves that can identify and characterize PET/CT radiotracer infiltration at the injection site during the uptake phase. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of infiltration detected by the device with rates detected by physicians. We also assessed the value of using the device to improve injection results in our center. Methods: 109 subjects consented to the study. All had passive device sensors applied to their skin near the injection site and mirrored on the contralateral arm during the entire uptake period. Nuclear medicine physicians reviewed standard images for the presence of dose infiltration. Sensor-generated time-activity curves were independently examined and then compared with the physician reports. Injection data captured by the software were analyzed, and the results were provided to the technologists. Improvement measures were implemented, and rates were remeasured. Results: Physician review of the initial 40 head-to-toe field-of-view images identified 15 cases (38%) of dose infiltration (9 minor, 5 moderate, and 1 significant). Sensor time-activity curves on these 40 cases independently identified 22 cases (55%) of dose infiltration (16 minor, 5 moderate, and 1 significant). After the time-activity curve results and the contributing factor analysis were shared with technologists, injection techniques were modified and an additional 69 cases were studied. Of these, physician review identified 17 cases (25%) of infiltration (13 minor, 3 moderate, and 1 significant), a 34% decline. Sensor time-activity curves identified 4 cases (6%) of infiltration (2 minor and 2 moderate), an 89% decline. Conclusion: The device provides valuable quality control information for each subject. Time-activity curves can further characterize visible infiltration. Even when the injection site was out of the field of view, the time-activity curves could still detect and characterize infiltration. Our initial experience showed that the quality assurance information obtained from the device helped reduce the rate and severity of infiltration. The device revealed site-specific contributing factors that helped nuclear medicine physicians and technologists customize their quality improvement efforts to these site-specific issues. Reducing infiltration can improve image quality and SUV quantification, as well as the ability to minimize variability in a site's PET/CT results. © 2017 by the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging.

  5. Truncated EphA2 likely potentiates cell adhesion via integrins as well as infiltration and/or lodgment of a monocyte/macrophage cell line in the red pulp and marginal zone of the mouse spleen, where ephrin-A1 is prominently expressed in the vasculature.

    PubMed

    Konda, Naoko; Saeki, Noritaka; Nishino, Shingo; Ogawa, Kazushige

    2017-03-01

    We previously established a J774.1 monocyte/macrophage subline expressing a truncated EphA2 construct lacking the kinase domain. We demonstrated that following ephrin-A1 stimulation, endogenous EphA2 promotes cell adhesion through interaction with integrins and integrin ligands such as ICAM1 and that truncated EphA2 potentiates the adhesion and becomes associated with the integrin/integrin ligand complex. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that the EphA/ephrin-A system, particularly EphA2/ephrin-A1, regulates transendothelial migration/tissue infiltration of monocytes/macrophages, because ephrin-A1 is widely recognized to be upregulated in inflammatory vasculatures. To evaluate whether this hypothesis is applicable in the spleen, we screened for EphA2/ephrin-A1 expression and reexamined the cellular properties of the J774.1 subline. We found that ephrin-A1 was expressed in the vasculature of the marginal zone and the red pulp and that its expression was upregulated in response to phagocyte depletion; further, CD115, F4/80, and CXCR4 were expressed in J774.1 cells, which serve as a usable substitute for monocytes/macrophages. Moreover, following ephrin-A1 stimulation, truncated EphA2 did not detectably interfere with the phosphorylation of endogenous EphA2, and it potentiated cell adhesion possibly through modulation of integrin avidity. Accordingly, by intravenously injecting mice with equal numbers of J774.1 and the subline cells labeled with distinct fluorochromes, we determined that truncated EphA2 markedly potentiated preferential cell infiltration into the red pulp and the marginal zone. Thus, modulation of EphA2 signaling might contribute to effective transplantation of tissue-specific resident macrophages and/or monocytes.

  6. A role for 12/15-lipoxygenase-derived proresolving mediators in postoperative ileus: protectin DX-regulated neutrophil extravasation.

    PubMed

    Stein, Kathy; Stoffels, Melissa; Lysson, Mariola; Schneiker, Bianca; Dewald, Oliver; Krönke, Gerhard; Kalff, Jörg C; Wehner, Sven

    2016-02-01

    Resolution of inflammation is an active counter-regulatory mechanism involving polyunsaturated fatty acid-derived proresolving lipid mediators. Postoperative intestinal motility disturbances, clinically known as postoperative ileus, occur frequently after abdominal surgery and are mediated by a complex inflammation of the intestinal muscularis externa. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that proresolving lipid mediators are involved in the resolution of postoperative ileus. In a standardized experimental model of postoperative ileus, we detected strong expression of 12/15-lipoxygenase within the postoperative muscularis externa of C57BL/6 mice, predominately located within CX3CR1(+)/Ly6C(+) infiltrating monocytes rather than Ly6G(+) neutrophils. Mass spectrometry analyses demonstrated that a 12/15-lipoxygenase increase was accompanied by production of docosahexaenoic acid-derived lipid mediators, particularly protectin DX and resolvin D2, and their common precursor 17-hydroxy docosahexaenoic acid. Perioperative administration of protectin DX, but not resolvin D2 diminished blood-derived leukocyte infiltration into the surgically manipulated muscularis externa and improved the gastrointestinal motility. Flow cytometry analyses showed impaired Ly6G(+)/Ly6C(+) neutrophil extravasation after protectin DX treatment, whereas Ly6G(-)/Ly6C(+) monocyte numbers were not affected. 12/15-lipoxygenase-deficient mice, lacking endogenous protectin DX synthesis, demonstrated increased postoperative leukocyte levels. Preoperative intravenous administration of a docosahexaenoic acid-rich lipid emulsion reduced postoperative leukocyte infiltration in wild-type mice but failed in 12/15-lipoxygenase-deficient mice mice. Protectin DX application reduced leukocyte influx and rescued 12/15-lipoxygenase-deficient mice mice from postoperative ileus. In conclusion, our results show that 12/15-lipoxygenase mediates postoperative ileus resolution via production of proresolving docosahexaenoic acid-derived protectin DX. Perioperative, parenteral protectin DX or docosahexaenoic acid supplementation, as well as modulation of the 12/15-lipoxygenase pathway, may be instrumental in prevention of postoperative ileus. © Society for Leukocyte Biology.

  7. Combination therapy of intravenously injected microglia and radiotherapy prolongs survival in a rat model of spontaneous malignant glioma.

    PubMed

    Okonogi, Noriyuki; Suzuki, Yoshiyuki; Sato, Hiro; Oike, Takahiro; Yoshimoto, Yuya; Mimura, Kousaku; Noda, Shin-Ei; Okamoto, Masahiko; Tamaki, Tomoaki; Morokoshi, Yukie; Hasegawa, Sumitaka; Ohgaki, Hiroko; Yokoo, Hideaki; Nakano, Takashi

    2018-06-18

    The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of combination therapy with intravenously injected microglia (MI) and radiotherapy (RT) for rat malignant glioma. Transgenic rats expressing v-erbB and spontaneously developing malignant glioma were used. The rats were divided into four groups: control (n = 19), RT alone (n = 10), MI alone (n = 9), and combination of MI and RT (MI+RT) (n = 10). Cranial X-ray irradiation (8 Gy per fraction; once per week) was performed at 50 and 51 weeks of age. Cultured rat microglial cells (5 × 10 6 cells/rat) were intravenously injected via the tail vein within 30 minutes after RT. No evidence of side effects including thrombosis or graft-versus-host disease was noted. Rats treated with RT alone, MI alone, MI+RT, and control survived 60.9, 56.3, 66.0, and 56.1 weeks, respectively. The survival period of MI+RT was significantly longer than that of control (p = 0.014), MI alone (p = 0.027), and RT alone (p = 0.049). Immunohistochemical analysis showed significantly higher number of tumor-infiltrated microglia in the RT alone (p = 0.041) and MI+RT groups (p = 0.014) compared with the control. Significantly more CD8-positive lymphocytes were observed in the MI+RT group (p = 0.049) compared with the control. A positive correlation was found between the number of microglia and CD8-positive lymphocytes (R 2 = 0.556). A positive correlation was also found between CD8-positive lymphocytes and survival periods (R 2 = 0.460). MI+RT increased infiltrated microglia and CD8-positive T cells and prolonged the survival in transgenic rats spontaneously developing malignant glioma. Combined immunocellular therapy and RT may provide a novel treatment strategy for malignant glioma. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  8. Monitoring of monocyte recruitment in reperfused myocardial infarction with intramyocardial hemorrhage and microvascular obstruction by combined fluorine 19 and proton cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

    PubMed

    Ye, Yu-Xiang; Basse-Lüsebrink, Thomas C; Arias-Loza, Paula-Anahi; Kocoski, Vladimir; Kampf, Thomas; Gan, Qiang; Bauer, Elisabeth; Sparka, Stefanie; Helluy, Xavier; Hu, Kai; Hiller, Karl-Heinz; Boivin-Jahns, Valerie; Jakob, Peter M; Jahns, Roland; Bauer, Wolfgang R

    2013-10-22

    Monocytes and macrophages are indispensable in the healing process after myocardial infarction (MI); however, the spatiotemporal distribution of monocyte infiltration and its correlation to prognostic indicators of reperfused MI have not been well described. With combined fluorine 19/proton ((1)H) magnetic resonance imaging, we noninvasively visualized the spatiotemporal recruitment of monocytes in vivo in a rat model of reperfused MI. Blood monocytes were labeled by intravenous injection of (19)F-perfluorocarbon emulsion 1 day after MI. The distribution patterns of monocyte infiltration were correlated to the presence of microvascular obstruction (MVO) and intramyocardial hemorrhage. In vivo, (19)F/(1)H magnetic resonance imaging performed in series revealed that monocyte infiltration was spatially inhomogeneous in reperfused MI areas. In the absence of MVO, monocyte infiltration was more intense in MI regions with serious ischemia-reperfusion injuries, indicated by severe intramyocardial hemorrhage; however, monocyte recruitment was significantly impaired in MVO areas accompanied by severe intramyocardial hemorrhage. Compared with MI with isolated intramyocardial hemorrhage, MI with MVO resulted in significantly worse pump function of the left ventricle 28 days after MI. Monocyte recruitment was inhomogeneous in reperfused MI tissue. It was highly reduced in MVO areas defined by magnetic resonance imaging. The impaired monocyte infiltration in MVO regions could be related to delayed healing and worse functional outcomes in the long term. Therefore, monocyte recruitment in MI with MVO could be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target that could be monitored noninvasively and longitudinally by (19)F/(1)H magnetic resonance imaging in vivo.

  9. Postoperative pain management in the postanesthesia care unit: an update

    PubMed Central

    Luo, Jie; Min, Su

    2017-01-01

    Acute postoperative pain remains a major problem, resulting in multiple undesirable outcomes if inadequately controlled. Most surgical patients spend their immediate postoperative period in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), where pain management, being unsatisfactory and requiring improvements, affects further recovery. Recent studies on postoperative pain management in the PACU were reviewed for the advances in assessments and treatments. More objective assessments of pain being independent of patients’ participation may be potentially appropriate in the PACU, including photoplethysmography-derived parameters, analgesia nociception index, skin conductance, and pupillometry, although further studies are needed to confirm their utilities. Multimodal analgesia with different analgesics and techniques has been widely used. With theoretical basis of preventing central sensitization, preventive analgesia is increasingly common. New opioids are being developed with minimization of adverse effects of traditional opioids. More intravenous nonopioid analgesics and adjuncts (such as dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone) are introduced for their opioid-sparing effects. Current evidence suggests that regional analgesic techniques are effective in the reduction of pain and stay in the PACU. Being available alternatives to epidural analgesia, perineural techniques and infiltrative techniques including wound infiltration, transversus abdominis plane block, local infiltration analgesia, and intraperitoneal administration have played a more important role for their effectiveness and safety. PMID:29180895

  10. A Novel Modality for Functional Imaging in Acute Intervertebral Disk Herniation via Tracking Leukocyte Infiltration.

    PubMed

    Xiao, Li; Ding, Mengmeng; Zhang, Yi; Chordia, Mahendra; Pan, Dongfeng; Shimer, Adam; Shen, Francis; Glover, David; Jin, Li; Li, Xudong

    2017-10-01

    Inflammation plays a key role in the progression of intervertebral disk (IVD) herniation and associated low back pain. However, real-time spatial diagnosis of inflammation associated with acute disk herniation has not been investigated. We sought to detect local neutrophil and macrophage infiltration near disk herniation via the formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1)-mediated molecular imaging in a disk puncture mouse model to elucidate pathophysiological process of disk herniation. Disk herniation was induced in mouse with an established needle puncture procedure. Degenerative change of disk and infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages were detected with Safranin-O, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and immunohistochemical staining after injury. FPR1-specific imaging probes cFLFLF-PEG-Cy7 and [ 99m Tc]HYNIC-PEG-cFLFLF were administered systemically to sham and disk injury mice. Leukocyte infiltration was tracked by in vivo near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) and single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) imaging. The peptide-receptor binding specificity was further investigated with FPR1 -/- mice via ex vivo NIRF scan and in vitro binding assays. Safranin-O staining exhibited disorganized disk structure and loss of proteoglycan after puncture. Massive inflammatory cells were observed in the anterior region of punctured annulus in the injury group. The majority of neutrophils were detected at 1 through 3 days, while infiltration of macrophages appeared the most at 7 days after injury. NIRF and SPECT images revealed preferential accumulation of cFLFLF probes in herniation site in wild-type mice but not in FPR1 -/- mice. Binding of the cFLFLF peptide to FPR1 was also observed in RAW 267.4 cells and macrophages isolated from wild-type mice, whereas much less signal was observed in macrophages from FPR1 -/- mice. The presence of macrophage infiltration was also detected in human-herniated disk samples by immunohistochemistry. For the first time, leukocyte infiltration around acute disk herniation site was detected directly and non-invasively in a timely fashion using FPR1-targeted molecular imaging modalities. Such functional imaging of disk herniation via infiltrated leukocytes would advance the understanding of etiology and facilitate drug delivery and treatment monitoring of disk herniation.

  11. 40 CFR 264.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration... tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation...

  12. 40 CFR 264.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ...) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration... tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation...

  13. 40 CFR 264.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ...) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration... tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration of precipitation...

  14. 40 CFR 265.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... of the largest tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration... excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration. Such additional capacity must be sufficient to contain... infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient...

  15. 40 CFR 265.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... of the largest tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration... excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration. Such additional capacity must be sufficient to contain... infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient...

  16. 40 CFR 265.193 - Containment and detection of releases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... of the largest tank within its boundary; (ii) Designed or operated to prevent run-on or infiltration... excess capacity to contain run-on or infiltration. Such additional capacity must be sufficient to contain... infiltration of precipitation into the secondary containment system unless the collection system has sufficient...

  17. Acoustic building infiltration measurement system

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

    Muehleisen, Ralph T.; Raman, Ganesh

    Systems and methods of detecting and identifying a leak from a container or building. Acoustic pressure and velocity are measured. Acoustic properties are acquired from the measured values. The acoustic properties are converted to infiltration/leakage information. Nearfield Acoustic Holography (NAH) may be one method to detect the leakages from a container by locating the noise sources.

  18. Towards real-time topical detection and characterization of FDG dose infiltration prior to PET imaging.

    PubMed

    Williams, Jason M; Arlinghaus, Lori R; Rani, Sudheer D; Shone, Martha D; Abramson, Vandana G; Pendyala, Praveen; Chakravarthy, A Bapsi; Gorge, William J; Knowland, Joshua G; Lattanze, Ronald K; Perrin, Steven R; Scarantino, Charles W; Townsend, David W; Abramson, Richard G; Yankeelov, Thomas E

    2016-12-01

    To dynamically detect and characterize 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) dose infiltrations and evaluate their effects on positron emission tomography (PET) standardized uptake values (SUV) at the injection site and in control tissue. Investigational gamma scintillation sensors were topically applied to patients with locally advanced breast cancer scheduled to undergo limited whole-body FDG-PET as part of an ongoing clinical study. Relative to the affected breast, sensors were placed on the contralateral injection arm and ipsilateral control arm during the resting uptake phase prior to each patient's PET scan. Time-activity curves (TACs) from the sensors were integrated at varying intervals (0-10, 0-20, 0-30, 0-40, and 30-40 min) post-FDG and the resulting areas under the curve (AUCs) were compared to SUVs obtained from PET. In cases of infiltration, observed in three sensor recordings (30 %), the injection arm TAC shape varied depending on the extent and severity of infiltration. In two of these cases, TAC characteristics suggested the infiltration was partially resolving prior to image acquisition, although it was still apparent on subsequent PET. Areas under the TAC 0-10 and 0-20 min post-FDG were significantly different in infiltrated versus non-infiltrated cases (Mann-Whitney, p < 0.05). When normalized to control, all TAC integration intervals from the injection arm were significantly correlated with SUV peak and SUV max measured over the infiltration site (Spearman ρ ≥ 0.77, p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, testing the ability of the first 10 min of post-FDG sensor data to predict infiltration visibility on the ensuing PET, yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.92. Topical sensors applied near the injection site provide dynamic information from the time of FDG administration through the uptake period and may be useful in detecting infiltrations regardless of PET image field of view. This dynamic information may also complement the static PET image to better characterize the true extent of infiltrations.

  19. [Preemptive local anesthetic infiltration in hallux valgus one-day surgery].

    PubMed

    Gądek, Artur; Liszka, Henryk

    2015-01-01

    The surgical treatment of hallux valgus deformity is connected with significant postoperative pain. Spinal and general anesthesia as well as peripheral blocks are successfully used in foot surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of local anesthetic infiltration before hallux valgus one-day surgery on postoperative pain and the need for analgesics. 134 patients underwent chevron or miniinvasive Mitchell-Kramer osteotomy of the first distal metatarsal. After general anesthesia each patient randomly received an infiltration of 7ml of local anesthetic (4 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine and 3 ml of 2% lidocaine) or the same amount of normal saline 15 minutes before the skin incision. Both the patient and the surgeon were blinded. The patient was discharged after approximately 2 hours of observation. 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24 and 72 hours after the release of the tourniquet the level of pain was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS). Rescue analgesia, side effects and the use of painkillers were noted. Preemptive local anesthetic infiltration significantly decreased pain during the first 24 hours after the surgery. None of the patients from the injected group and 38 from the placebo group received 100 mg of ketoprofen intravenously for rescue analgesia in the first 2 hours after the release of the tourniquet. During the first 24 hours we noted significantly decreased use of 1000 mg of paracetamol and 100 mg mg of ketoprofen orally in the injected group. No systemic adverse effects were noted. One patient from placebo group had allergic rush after use of 100 mg ketoprofen. Preemptive local anesthetic infiltration in one-day hallux valgus surgery significantly decreases postoperative pain. It is safe, efficient and allows fast discharge.

  20. Comparison of ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block versus local wound infiltration for post operative analgesia in patients undergoing gynaecological surgery under general anaesthesia.

    PubMed

    Ranjit, S; Shrestha, S K

    2014-01-01

    Transversus abdominis plane block has been recently developed as a part of multimodal post operative analgesic techniques. We compared the analgesic efficacy of this technique with local bupivacaine infiltration in patients undergoing gynaecological surgeries with pfannenstiel incision and lower midline incision under general anaesthesia. To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia. Patients were randomly allocated to three groups: control group (n=15), transversus abdominis plane block group (n=15), who received bilateral transversus abdominis plane blockwith 0.25% bupivacaine, and local infiltration group (n=15), who received local wound infiltration with 0.25% bupivacaine at the end of surgery. All patients received intramuscular diclofenac 12 hourly and intravenous tramadol SOS in the postoperative period. Visual analogue scores for pain were assessed at 1,2,4,8,12 and 24 hours postoperatively and these were compared between the three groups. Average tramadol consumption in 24 hours were also compared among the three groups. Data were subjected to univariate ANOVA test and chi-square test. Level of significance was set at 0.05. Visual analogue scores were significantly less in transversus abdominis plane block group and effect lasted up to 12 hours at rest postoperatively and 8 hours during cough and movement. Bilateral Transversus abdominis plane block was effective in reducing postoperative pain scores for 8 to 12 hours postoperatively. This block was also successful in reducing postoperative opioid requirement.

  1. Impact of stormwater infiltration basins on groundwater quality, Perth metropolitan region, Western Australia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Appleyard, S. J.

    1993-08-01

    Twelve bores were sunk adjacent to three stormwater infiltration basins in the Perth metropolitan area to examine the impact of runoff from a light industrial area, a medium-density residential area, and a major arterial road on groundwater quality, and to examine the hydrological response of the aquifer to runoff recharge. Automatic and manual water level monitoring between April and November 1990 indicated that groundwater levels responded within minutes to recharge from the infiltration basins. Peak water levels of up to 2.5 m above rest levels occurred 6 24 h after the commencement of ponding in the infiltration basins. There was a marked reduction in salinity and increase in dissolved oxygen concentrations in the upper part of the aquifer downgradient of the infiltration basins. Concentrations of toxic metals, nutrients, pesticides, and phenolic compounds in groundwater near the infiltration basins were low and generally well within Australian drinking water guidelines. However, sediment in the base of an infiltration basin draining a major road contained in excess of 3500 ppm of lead. Phthalates, which are US EPA priority pollutants, were detected in all but one bore near the infiltration basins. Their detection may be a sampling artifact, but they may also be derived from the plastic litter that accumulates in the infiltration basins. The concentration of iron in groundwater near the infiltration basins appears to be controlled by dissolved oxygen concentrations, with high iron concentrations occurring where dissolved oxygen concentrations are low. Pumping bores located near infiltration basins may suffer from iron encrustation problems caused by the mixing of shallow, oxygenated groundwater with water containing higher concentrations of iron from deeper in the aquifer.

  2. Use of immunoblotting to detect Aspergillus fumigatus antigen in sera and urines of rats with experimental invasive aspergillosis.

    PubMed Central

    Yu, B; Niki, Y; Armstrong, D

    1990-01-01

    Immunoblotting was used to detect Aspergillus fumigatus antigen in sera and urines of immunosuppressed rats experimentally infected with A. fumigatus. Organisms were administered by both intravenous and intratracheal injections. Intravenously infected rats developed disseminated aspergillosis, but intratracheally infected rats developed pulmonary disease only. Fungal cultures of blood and urine samples from infected rats were negative. In the urines of intravenously infected rats, antigen was detected 24 to 48 h after infection; in the urines of intratracheally infected animals, antigen was detected on days 4 to 5 after infection. Antigen in serum was detected later than antigen in urine was. Following sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting of serum and urine samples, the most strongly reacting antigenic materials were found in the 88-, 40-, 27-, and 20-kilodalton regions. These dominant antigens appeared to be the same as those of control antigens prepared from A. fumigatus grown in vitro. Rabbit antiserum to Aspergillus filtrate antigen was found to be more immunoreactive than antiserum to mycelial or conidial antigen. No mycelium-specific antigens were detected. Images PMID:2199519

  3. Gelam Honey Has a Protective Effect against Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Organ Failure

    PubMed Central

    Kassim, Mustafa; Mansor, Marzida; Al-Abd, Nazeh; Yusoff, Kamaruddin Mohd

    2012-01-01

    Gelam honey exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and is thought to have potent effects in reducing infections and healing wounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intravenously-injected Gelam honey in protecting organs from lethal doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Six groups of rabbits (N = 6) were used in this study. Two groups acted as controls and received only saline and no LPS injections. For the test groups, 1 mL honey (500 mg/kg in saline) was intravenously injected into two groups (treated), while saline (1 mL) was injected into the other two groups (untreated); after 1 h, all four test groups were intravenously-injected with LPS (0.5 mg/kg). Eight hours after the LPS injection, blood and organs were collected from three groups (one from each treatment stream) and blood parameters were measured and biochemical tests, histopathology, and myeloperoxidase assessment were performed. For survival rate tests, rabbits from the remaining three groups were monitored over a 2-week period. Treatment with honey showed protective effects on organs through the improvement of organ blood parameters, reduced infiltration of neutrophils, and decreased myeloperoxidase activity. Honey-treated rabbits also showed reduced mortality after LPS injection compared with untreated rabbits. Honey may have a therapeutic effect in protecting organs during inflammatory diseases. PMID:22754370

  4. (18)F-FDG dynamic PET/CT in patients with multiple myeloma: patterns of tracer uptake and correlation with bone marrow plasma cell infiltration rate.

    PubMed

    Sachpekidis, Christos; Mai, Elias K; Goldschmidt, Hartmut; Hillengass, Jens; Hose, Dirk; Pan, Leyun; Haberkorn, Uwe; Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss, Antonia

    2015-06-01

    The value of F-FDG PET in the diagnostic approach of multiple myeloma (MM) remains incompletely elicited. Little is known about the kinetics of F-FDG in the bone marrow and extramedullary sites in MM. This study aimed to evaluate quantitative data on kinetics and distribution patterns of F-FDG in MM patients with regard to pelvic bone marrow plasma cell infiltration. The study included 40 patients with primary MM. Dynamic PET/CT scanning of the lower lumbar spine and pelvis was performed after the administration of F-FDG. Whole-body PET/CT studies were performed. Sites of focal increased tracer uptake were considered as highly suggestive of myelomatous involvement after taking into account the patient history and CT findings. Bone marrow of the os ilium without pathologic tracer accumulation served as reference. The evaluation of dynamic PET/CT studies was based in addition to the conventional visual (qualitative) assessment, on semiquantitative (SUV) calculations, as well as on absolute quantitative estimations after application of a 2-tissue compartment model and a noncompartmental approach. F-FDG quantitative information and corresponding distribution patterns were correlated with pelvic bone marrow plasma cell infiltration. Fifty-two myelomatous lesions were detected in the pelvis. All parameters in suspected MM lesions ranged in significantly higher levels than in reference tissue (P < 0.01). Correlative analyses revealed that bone marrow plasma cell infiltration rate correlated significantly with SUVaverage, SUVmax, and the parameters K1, influx, and fractal dimension of F-FDG in reference bone marrow (P < 0.01). In addition, whole-body static PET/CT imaging demonstrated 4 patterns of tracer uptake; these are as follows: negative, focal, diffuse, and mixed (focal/diffuse) tracer uptake. Patients with a mixed pattern of radiotracer uptake had the highest mean plasma cell infiltration rate in their bone marrow, whereas those with negative PET/CT scans demonstrated the lowest bone marrow plasma cell infiltration. In total, 265 focal myeloma-indicative F-FDG-avid lesions were detected, 129 of which correlated with low-dose CT osteolytic findings. No significant correlation between the number of focal lesions detected in PET/CT and bone marrow infiltration was detected. The F-FDG kinetic parameters K1, influx, and fractal dimension as well as SUVaverage from reference tissue correlated significantly with bone marrow malignant plasma cell infiltration rate. Patients with negative PET/CT demonstrated the lowest bone marrow infiltration by malignant plasma cells, whereas those with a mixed pattern of tracer uptake had the highest infiltration.

  5. Integrated versus nOn-integrated Peripheral inTravenous catheter. Which Is the most effective systeM for peripheral intravenoUs catheter Management? (The OPTIMUM study): a randomised controlled trial protocol

    PubMed Central

    Castillo, Maria Isabel; Larsen, Emily; Cooke, Marie; Marsh, Nicole M; Wallis, Marianne C; Finucane, Julie; Brown, Peter; Mihala, Gabor; Byrnes, Joshua; Walker, Rachel; Cable, Prudence; Zhang, Li; Sear, Candi; Jackson, Gavin; Rowsome, Anna; Ryan, Alison; Humphries, Julie C; Sivyer, Susan; Flanigan, Kathy; Rickard, Claire M

    2018-01-01

    Introduction Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are frequently used in hospitals. However, PIVC complications are common, with failures leading to treatment delays, additional procedures, patient pain and discomfort, increased clinician workload and substantially increased healthcare costs. Recent evidence suggests integrated PIVC systems may be more effective than traditional non-integrated PIVC systems in reducing phlebitis, infiltration and costs and increasing functional dwell time. The study aim is to determine the efficacy, cost–utility and acceptability to patients and professionals of an integrated PIVC system compared with a non-integrated PIVC system. Methods and analysis Two-arm, multicentre, randomised controlled superiority trial of integrated versus non-integrated PIVC systems to compare effectiveness on clinical and economic outcomes. Recruitment of 1560 patients over 2 years, with randomisation by a centralised service ensuring allocation concealment. Primary outcomes: catheter failure (composite endpoint) for reasons of: occlusion, infiltration/extravasation, phlebitis/thrombophlebitis, dislodgement, localised or catheter-associated bloodstream infections. Secondary outcomes: first time insertion success, types of PIVC failure, device colonisation, insertion pain, functional dwell time, adverse events, mortality, cost–utility and consumer acceptability. One PIVC per patient will be included, with intention-to-treat analysis. Baseline group comparisons will be made for potentially clinically important confounders. The proportional hazards assumption will be checked, and Cox regression will test the effect of group, patient, device and clinical variables on failure. An as-treated analysis will assess the effect of protocol violations. Kaplan-Meier survival curves with log-rank tests will compare failure by group over time. Secondary endpoints will be compared between groups using parametric/non-parametric techniques. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/16/QRBW/527), Griffith University Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref No. 2017/002) and the South Metropolitan Health Services Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref No. 2016–239). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Trial registration number ACTRN12617000089336. PMID:29764876

  6. Integrated versus nOn-integrated Peripheral inTravenous catheter. Which Is the most effective systeM for peripheral intravenoUs catheter Management? (The OPTIMUM study): a randomised controlled trial protocol.

    PubMed

    Castillo, Maria Isabel; Larsen, Emily; Cooke, Marie; Marsh, Nicole M; Wallis, Marianne C; Finucane, Julie; Brown, Peter; Mihala, Gabor; Carr, Peter J; Byrnes, Joshua; Walker, Rachel; Cable, Prudence; Zhang, Li; Sear, Candi; Jackson, Gavin; Rowsome, Anna; Ryan, Alison; Humphries, Julie C; Sivyer, Susan; Flanigan, Kathy; Rickard, Claire M

    2018-05-14

    Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are frequently used in hospitals. However, PIVC complications are common, with failures leading to treatment delays, additional procedures, patient pain and discomfort, increased clinician workload and substantially increased healthcare costs. Recent evidence suggests integrated PIVC systems may be more effective than traditional non-integrated PIVC systems in reducing phlebitis, infiltration and costs and increasing functional dwell time. The study aim is to determine the efficacy, cost-utility and acceptability to patients and professionals of an integrated PIVC system compared with a non-integrated PIVC system. Two-arm, multicentre, randomised controlled superiority trial of integrated versus non-integrated PIVC systems to compare effectiveness on clinical and economic outcomes. Recruitment of 1560 patients over 2 years, with randomisation by a centralised service ensuring allocation concealment. Primary outcomes: catheter failure (composite endpoint) for reasons of: occlusion, infiltration/extravasation, phlebitis/thrombophlebitis, dislodgement, localised or catheter-associated bloodstream infections. first time insertion success, types of PIVC failure, device colonisation, insertion pain, functional dwell time, adverse events, mortality, cost-utility and consumer acceptability. One PIVC per patient will be included, with intention-to-treat analysis. Baseline group comparisons will be made for potentially clinically important confounders. The proportional hazards assumption will be checked, and Cox regression will test the effect of group, patient, device and clinical variables on failure. An as-treated analysis will assess the effect of protocol violations. Kaplan-Meier survival curves with log-rank tests will compare failure by group over time. Secondary endpoints will be compared between groups using parametric/non-parametric techniques. Ethical approval from the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/16/QRBW/527), Griffith University Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref No. 2017/002) and the South Metropolitan Health Services Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref No. 2016-239). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. ACTRN12617000089336. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  7. Accuracy of ultrasound in prediction of rectosigmoid infiltration in epithelial ovarian cancer.

    PubMed

    Zikan, M; Fischerova, D; Semeradova, I; Slama, J; Dundr, P; Weinberger, V; Dusek, L; Cibula, D

    2017-10-01

    To examine prospectively the accuracy of ultrasound in predicting rectosigmoid tumor infiltration in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer. Patients referred for a suspicious pelvic mass between 2012 and 2014 were examined by ultrasound following the standard protocol for assessment of tumor infiltration. Of the 245 patients examined, 191 had proven ovarian cancer and underwent primary surgery and were included in the analysis. Patients with apparently benign or inoperable disease were excluded. Rectosigmoid infiltration was evaluated by histopathology or according to perioperative findings. Clinical, pathological and laboratory parameters were analyzed as factors potentially affecting the sensitivity and specificity of sonography. The sensitivity of ultrasound in detecting rectosigmoid infiltration in patients with ovarian cancer was 86.3%, with specificity of 95.8%, positive predictive value of 92.6%, negative predictive value of 91.9% and overall accuracy of 92.1%. Ultrasound is a highly accurate method for detecting rectosigmoid tumor infiltration in ovarian cancer patients, and thus, can be used for planning adequate management, including patient consultation, surgical team planning, suitable operating time and postoperative care. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Implementing the I-DECIDED clinical decision-making tool for peripheral intravenous catheter assessment and safe removal: protocol for an interrupted time-series study.

    PubMed

    Ray-Barruel, Gillian; Cooke, Marie; Mitchell, Marion; Chopra, Vineet; Rickard, Claire M

    2018-06-04

    Millions of acute care hospital patients need a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) each year. However, up to half of PIVCs remain in situ when not being used, and 30%-50% of intravenous (IV) catheters develop complications or stop working before treatment is finished, requiring the insertion of a new device. Improved assessment could prompt timely removal of redundant catheters and prevent IV complications. This study aims to validate an evidence-based PIVC assessment and decision-making tool called I-DECIDED and evaluate the effect of implementing this tool into acute hospital clinical practice. The protocol outlines a prospective, multicentre, mixed-methods study using an interrupted time-series (multiple measures preintervention and postintervention) implementation at three Australian hospitals between August 2017 and July 2018. The study will examine the effectiveness of the I-DECIDED assessment and decision-making tool in clinical practice on prompting timely PIVC removal and early detection of complications. Primary outcomes are prevalence of redundant PIVCs (defined as device in situ without a clear purpose), IV complications (occlusion, dislodgement, infiltration, extravasation and phlebitis) and substandard dressings (loose, lifting, moist or soiled); device utilisation ratios; and primary bloodstream infection rates. Secondary outcomes including staff barriers and enablers to PIVC assessment and removal, patient participation, documentation of PIVC assessment and decisions taken to continue or remove the PIVC will be recorded. Using the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services framework, we will undertake staff focus groups, bedside patient interviews and PIVC assessments and chart audits. Patients aged 18 years or more with a PIVC will be eligible for inclusion. Ethical approval from Queensland Health (HREC/17/QPCH/47), Griffith University (Ref No. 2017/152) and St Vincent's Health and Aged Care Human Research and Ethics Committee (Ref No. 17/28). Results will be published. ANZCTR: 12617000067370; Pre-results. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  9. Human Prostate Cancer Infiltrating Lymphocytes: Raft Microdomains, Signaling and Activation in Organ Cultures

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-06-01

    and cell growth and differentiation (14). Increased ARG activity has long been detected in pa- tients with colon, breast , lung, and prostate cancer ...activity has long been detected in patients with colon, breast , lung and prostate cancer [23] and it was advanced that this enzymatic activity...AD_________________ Award Number: DAMD 17-03-01-0032 TITLE: Human Prostate Cancer Infiltrating

  10. CT imaging spectrum of infiltrative renal diseases.

    PubMed

    Ballard, David H; De Alba, Luis; Migliaro, Matias; Previgliano, Carlos H; Sangster, Guillermo P

    2017-11-01

    Most renal lesions replace the renal parenchyma as a focal space-occupying mass with borders distinguishing the mass from normal parenchyma. However, some renal lesions exhibit interstitial infiltration-a process that permeates the renal parenchyma by using the normal renal architecture for growth. These infiltrative lesions frequently show nonspecific patterns that lead to little or no contour deformity and have ill-defined borders on CT, making detection and diagnosis challenging. The purpose of this pictorial essay is to describe the CT imaging findings of various conditions that may manifest as infiltrative renal lesions.

  11. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast: friends or foes?

    PubMed

    Agahozo, Marie Colombe; Hammerl, Dora; Debets, Reno; Kok, Marleen; van Deurzen, Carolien H M

    2018-02-20

    In the past three decades, the detection rate of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast has dramatically increased due to breast screening programs. As a consequence, about 20% of all breast cancer cases are detected in this early in situ stage. Some ductal carcinoma in situ cases will progress to invasive breast cancer, while other cases are likely to have an indolent biological behavior. The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes is seen as a promising prognostic and predictive marker in invasive breast cancer, mainly in HER2-positive and triple-negative subtypes. Here, we summarize the current understanding regarding immune infiltrates in invasive breast cancer and highlight recent observations regarding the presence and potential clinical significance of such immune infiltrates in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ. The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, their numbers, composition, and potential relationship with genomic status will be discussed. Finally, we propose that a combination of genetic and immune markers may better stratify ductal carcinoma in situ subtypes with respect to tumor evolution.

  12. Methodology to assess water presence on speleothems during periods of low precipitation, with implications for recharge sources - Kartchner Caverns, Arizona

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Blasch, Kyle W.

    2011-01-01

    Beginning in January 2005, recharge processes and the presence of water on speleothems were monitored in Kartchner Caverns during a 44-month period when annual rainfall rates were 6 to 18 percent below the long-term mean. Electrical-resistance sensors designed to detect the presence of water were used to identify ephemeral streamflow in the channels overlying the cave as well as the movement of water within the cave system. Direct infiltration of precipitation through overhead rocks provided consistent inflow to the cave, but precipitation rates and subsequent infiltration rates were reduced during the comparatively dry years. Ephemeral stream-channel recharge through autogenic and allogenic processes, the predominant recharge mechanism during wetter periods, was limited to two low-volume events. From visual observations, it appeared that recharge from channel infiltration was equal to or less than recharge from overhead infiltration. Electrical-resistance sensors were able to detect thin films of water on speleothems, including stalactites, ribbons, and stalagmites. These films of water were directly attributed to overhead infiltration of precipitation. Periods of low precipitation resulted in decreased speleothem wetness.

  13. The Effect Of Digital Unsharp Masking On The Detectability Of Interstitial Infiltrates And Pneumothoraces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    MacMahon, Heber; Vyborny, Carl; Sabeti, Victoria; Metz, Charles; Doi, Kunio

    1985-09-01

    A potential advantage of digital radiographic systems is their ability to enhance images by various types of processing. Digital unsharp masking is one of the simplest and potentially most useful forms of enhancement. The efficacy of unsharp masking in clinical radiologic diagnosis has not been investigated systematically, however. The effect of digital unsharp masking on the detectability of two types of subtle abnormalities, pneumothorax and interstitial infiltrate, was studied in an observer performance test. An ROC analysis of this preliminary data suggests that unsharp masking may improve diagnostic accuracy for pneumothorax. Radiologists' performance in identifying interstitial infiltrates was degraded by the image processing, however, and false positive diagnoses tended to be more frequent.

  14. NIR-induced highly sensitive detection of latent finger-marks by NaYF4:Yb,Er upconversion nanoparticles in a dry powder state

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Meng; Li, Ming; Yang, Mingying; Zhang, Xiaomei; Yu, Aoyang; Zhu, Ye; Qiu, Penghe; Mao, Chuanbin

    2016-01-01

    The most commonly found fingermarks at crime scenes are latent and, thus, an efficient method for detecting latent fingermarks is very important. However, traditional developing techniques have drawbacks such as low detection sensitivity, high background interference, complicated operation, and high toxicity. To tackle this challenge, we employed fluorescent NaYF4:Yb,Er upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), which can fluoresce visible light when excited by 980 nm human-safe near-infrared light, to stain the latent fingermarks on various substrate surfaces. The UCNPs were successfully used as a novel fluorescent label for the detection of latent fingermarks with high sensitivity, low background, high efficiency, and low toxicity on various substrates including non-infiltrating materials (glass, marble, aluminum alloy sheets, stainless steel sheets, aluminum foils, and plastic cards), semi-infiltrating materials (floor leathers, ceramic tiles, wood floor, and painted wood), and infiltrating materials such as various types of papers. This work shows that UCNPs are a versatile fluorescent label for the facile detection of fingermarks on virtually any material, enabling their practical applications in forensic sciences. PMID:27818741

  15. Acoustic method respiratory rate monitoring is useful in patients under intravenous anesthesia.

    PubMed

    Ouchi, Kentaro; Fujiwara, Shigeki; Sugiyama, Kazuna

    2017-02-01

    Respiratory depression can occur during intravenous general anesthesia without tracheal intubation. A new acoustic method for respiratory rate monitoring, RRa ® (Masimo Corp., Tokyo, Japan), has been reported to show good reliability in post-anesthesia care and emergency units. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability of the acoustic method for measurement of respiratory rate during intravenous general anesthesia, as compared with capnography. Patients with dental anxiety undergoing dental treatment under intravenous anesthesia without tracheal intubation were enrolled in this study. Respiratory rate was recorded every 30 s using the acoustic method and capnography, and detectability of respiratory rate was investigated for both methods. This study used a cohort study design. In 1953 recorded respiratory rate data points, the number of detected points by the acoustic method (1884, 96.5 %) was significantly higher than that by capnography (1682, 86.1 %) (P < 0.0001). In the intraoperative period, there was a significant difference in the LOA (95 % limits of agreement of correlation between difference and average of the two methods)/ULLOA (under the lower limit of agreement) in terms of use or non-use of a dental air turbine (P < 0.0001). In comparison between capnography, the acoustic method is useful for continuous monitoring of respiratory rate in spontaneously breathing subjects undergoing dental procedures under intravenous general anesthesia. However, the acoustic method might not accurately detect in cases in with dental air turbine.

  16. The assessment of hepatitis B seroprevalence in persons with intravenous drug use history in the Isfahan province: Community-based study.

    PubMed

    Khodadoostan, Mahsa; Ataei, Behrooz; Shavakhi, Ahmad; Tavakoli, Tahmine; Nokhodian, Zary; Yaran, Majid

    2014-01-01

    Hepatitis B with its complications has become one of the universal problems. Injection drug use is one of the most important risk factors in the transmission of hepatitis B. Therefore, we assessed hepatitis B virus prevalence among cases with a history of intravenous drug use (IVDU) as the first announcement-based study in this regard. The announcement-based detection of hepatitis B seroprevalence in volunteers with a history of intravenous drug use was conducted in the Isfahan province. A comprehensive community announcement was made in all the public places and to all physicians, in all the regions. One thousand five hundred and eighty-eight volunteers were invited to the Isfahan reference laboratories and serum samples were tested for HBs-Ag, HBc Ab, and HBs-Ab, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. In this study, 1588 individuals volunteered, who were estimated to be 50% of all the expected intravenous drug users in the community. HBs Ag was detected in 4.2% of them. HBc Ab and HBs Ab were detected in order in 11.4 and 17.3%, respectively. We estimated that the seroprevalence of hepatitis B positivity in intravenous drug users was moderate to high. Therefore, it was suggested that this group be encouraged to prevent acquiring infection by vaccination, education, counseling for risk reduction, and treatment of substance abuse, and finally hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening.

  17. Multimodal confocal mosaicing microscopy: an emphasis on squamous cell carcinoma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Nathaniel W.; Sensibaugh, Jordan; Ardeshiri, Ardaland; Blanchard, Adam; Jacques, Steven; Gareau, Daniel

    2010-02-01

    Our previous study reported a sensitivity of 96.6% and a specificity of 89.2% in rapidly detecting Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs) when nuclei were stained with acridine orange. Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) and infiltrative BCCs remain difficult to detect. More complete screening can be achieved utilizing both acridine orange for nuclei staining and eosin for cytoplasmic contrast, using two lasers to excite the two stains independently. Nuclear fluorescence is achieved by staining with acridine orange (0.5mM, 60 s), and cytoplasmic fluorescence is achieved by staining with eosin working solution (30 s). This work shows good morphological contrast of SCC and infiltrative BCC with eosin, acridine orange, and reflectance, and presents a means for rapid SCC and infiltrative BCC detection in fresh skin excisions using multimodal confocal microscopy. In addition, digital staining is shown to effectively simulate hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) histology with confocal mosaics.

  18. Effect of Fetal Membrane-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Rats With Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis.

    PubMed

    Kawakubo, Kazumichi; Ohnishi, Shunsuke; Fujita, Hirotoshi; Kuwatani, Masaki; Onishi, Reizo; Masamune, Atsushi; Takeda, Hiroshi; Sakamoto, Naoya

    2016-01-01

    Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a valuable cell source in regenerative medicine and can be isolated from fetal membranes (FMs), particularly amniotic membranes. We investigated the effect of rat FM-derived MSCs (rFM-MSCs) and human amnion-derived MSCs (hAMSCs) on the inflammatory reaction in vitro and therapeutic effects in rats with acute and chronic pancreatitis. Effect of rFM-MSCs or hAMSC-conditioned medium was investigated in vitro. Acute pancreatitis was induced by intraductal injection of 4% taurocholate, and rFM-MSCs were transplanted intravenously. Chronic pancreatitis was induced by intravenous injection of 5 mg/kg dibutyltin dichloride, and hAMSCs were transplanted intravenously. The inflammatory reaction of macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide and trypsin was significantly suppressed by rFM-MSC coculture. Pancreatic acinar cell injury induced by cerulein was significantly ameliorated by hAMSC-conditioned medium. Pancreatic stellate cell activation induced by tumor necrosis factor-α was significantly decreased by hAMSC-conditioned medium. Transplantation of rFM-MSCs significantly reduced the histological score and infiltration of CD68-positive macrophages in the rat pancreas. The hAMSC transplantation significantly decreased the expression of MCP-1 and attenuated the downregulation of amylase expression in the pancreas. Transplantation of FM-MSCs and AMSCs suppressed the inflammatory reaction of acute and chronic pancreatitis in rats.

  19. Therapeutic Effect of Intravenous Infusion of Perfluorocarbon Emulsion on LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Lv, Qi; Yin, Xiaofeng; Song, Jianqi; Landén, Ning Xu; Fan, Haojun

    2014-01-01

    Acute lung injury (ALI) and its more severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are the leading causes of death in critical care. Despite extensive efforts in research and clinical medicine, mortality remains high in these diseases. Perfluorocarbon (PFC), a chemical compound known as liquid ventilation medium, is capable of dissolving large amounts of physiologically important gases (mainly oxygen and carbon dioxide). In this study we aimed to investigate the effect of intravenous infusion of PFC emulsion on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced ALI in rats and elucidate its mechanism of action. Forty two Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: 6 rats were treated with saline solution by intratracheal instillation (control group), 18 rats were treated with LPS by intratracheal instillation (LPS group) and the other 18 rats received PFC through femoral vein prior to LPS instillation (LPS+PFC group). The rats in the control group were sacrificed 6 hours later after saline instillation. At 2, 4 and 6 hours of exposure to LPS, 6 rats in the LPS group and 6 rats in LPS+PFC group were sacrificed at each time point. By analyzing pulmonary pathology, partial pressure of oxygen in the blood (PaO2) and lung wet-dry weight ratio (W/D) of each rat, we found that intravenous infusion of PFC significantly alleviated acute lung injury induced by LPS. Moreover, we showed that the expression of pulmonary myeloperoxidase (MPO), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) of endothelial cells and CD11b of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) induced by LPS were significantly decreased by PFC treatment in vivo. Our results indicate that intravenous infusion of PFC inhibits the infiltration of PMNs into lung tissue, which has been shown as the core pathogenesis of ALI/ARDS. Thus, our study provides a theoretical foundation for using intravenous infusion of PFC to prevent and treat ALI/ARDS in clinical practice. PMID:24489970

  20. AAV delivery of tumor necrosis factor-α short hairpin RNA attenuates cold-induced pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary arterial remodeling.

    PubMed

    Crosswhite, Patrick; Chen, Kai; Sun, Zhongjie

    2014-11-01

    Cold temperatures are associated with increased mortality and morbidity of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease. Cold exposure causes lung inflammation, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and right ventricle hypertrophy, but there is no effective therapy because of unknown mechanism. Here, we investigated whether RNA interference silencing of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α decreases cold-induced macrophage infiltration, PH, and pulmonary arterial (PA) remodeling. We found for the first time that continuous cold exposure (5.0°C) increased TNF-α expression and macrophage infiltration in the lungs and PAs right before elevation of right ventricle systolic pressure. The in vivo RNA interference silencing of TNF-α was achieved by intravenous delivery of recombinant AAV-2 carrying TNF-α short hairpin small-interfering RNA 24 hours before cold exposure. Cold exposure for 8 weeks significantly increased right ventricle pressure compared with the warm controls (40.19±4.9 versus 22.9±1.1 mm Hg), indicating that cold exposure caused PH. Cold exposure increased TNF-α, interleukin-6, and phosphodiesterase-1C protein expression in the lungs and PAs and increased lung macrophage infiltration. Notably, TNF-α short hairpin small-interfering RNA prevented the cold-induced increases in TNF-α, interleukin-6, and phosphodiesterase-1C protein expression, abolished lung macrophage infiltration, and attenuated PH (26.28±1.6 mm Hg), PA remodeling, and right ventricle hypertrophy. PA smooth muscle cells isolated from cold-exposed animals showed increased intracellular superoxide levels and cell proliferation along with decreased intracellular cGMP. These cold-induced changes were prevented by TNF-α short hairpin small-interfering RNA. In conclusions, upregulation of TNF-α played a critical role in the pathogenesis of cold-induced PH by promoting pulmonary macrophage infiltration and inflammation. AAV delivery of TNF-α short hairpin small-interfering RNA may be an effective therapeutic approach for cold-induced PH and PA remodeling. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

  1. Comparison between analgesic effect of bupivacaine thoracic epidural and ketamine infusion plus wound infiltration with local anesthetics in open cholecystectomy.

    PubMed

    Megahed, Nagwa Ahmed Ebrahim; Ellakany, Mohamed; Elatter, Ahmed Mohammed Ibrahim; Moustafa Teima, Mohamed Ahmed Ali

    2014-01-01

    Neuraxial blocks result in sympathetic block, sensory analgesia and motor block. Continuous epidural anesthesia through a catheter offers several options for perioperative analgesia. Local anesthetic boluses or infusions can provide profound analgesia. Although the role of low-dose ketamine (<2 mg/kg intramuscular, <1 mg/kg intravenous [IV] or ≤ 20 μg/kg/min by IV infusion) in the treatment of post-operative pain is controversial, perioperative administration of a small dose of ketamine may be valuable to a multimodal analgesic regimen. A local anesthetic can be used for wound infiltration intra-operative to minimized the surgical pain. A prospective randomized study was performed in which 40 patients scheduled for elective open cholecystectomy under general anesthesia admitted to the Medical Research Institute were included and further subdivided into two groups, group A, received thoracic epidural catheter at T7-8, activation was done 20 min before induction of anesthesia with plain bupivacaine at a concentration of 0.25% at a volume of 1 ml/segment aiming to block sensory supply from T4-L2, then received continuous thoracic epidural infusion intra and postoperatively with plain bupivacaine at a concentration of 0.125% at a rate of 5 ml/h for 24 h, group B received 0.3 mg/kg bolus of ketamine at the time of induction then 0.1 mg/kg/h ketamine IV infusion during surgery followed by wound infiltration with 15 ml of plain bupivacaine 0.5% at the time of skin closure. Bupivacaine thoracic epidural analgesia had better control on heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure than ketamine infusion plus wound infiltration with local anesthetic in patients undergoing open cholecystectomy. Thoracic epidural analgesia had better control on hemodynamic changes intra-and postoperatively than ketamine infusion with local wound infiltration in open cholecystectomy.

  2. Caesarean in mare by Marcenac incision under local anaesthesia.

    PubMed

    Ninu, A R; Saxena, A C; Sivanarayanan, T B; Remya, V; Binsila, B K; Maiti, S K; Zama, M M S

    2015-01-01

    A nulliparous non-descript mare was presented with a complaint of dystocia. The mare was recumbent and physical examination revealed that the animal was in shock. There was no straining and foetal forelimbs were visible outside the vulva. The foetus was dead as there was no pedal reflex. Vaginal examination revealed anterior presentation with dorso-sacral position and rigid lateral head deviation. Pre-operatively, the mare was given 5 ml Tetanus toxoid and 3 g Ceftriaxone as intramuscular injection, and 5 ml Dexamethasone in 15 L of 5% Dextrose Normal Saline (DNS) as intravenous (i/v) infusion. As pelvic space was inadequate and the mal posture was not correctable, manual correction or foetotomy could not be attempted and therefore caesarean section was planned. Condition of the animal warranted the use of local anaesthetic infiltration instead of general anesthesia. Post-operative care included intravenous fluids, anti-inflammatory/analgesics and daily antiseptic dressing. The owner reported uneventful recovery. The authors would like to conclude the case as a rare emergency caesarean in equine where the surgery was done with animal in lateral recumbency employing a Marcenac incision under local anaesthesia.

  3. Reduced Plasma Nonesterified Fatty Acid Levels and the Advent of an Acute Lung Injury in Mice after Intravenous or Enteral Oleic Acid Administration

    PubMed Central

    Gonçalves de Albuquerque, Cassiano Felippe; Burth, Patrícia; Younes Ibrahim, Mauricio; Garcia, Diogo Gomes; Bozza, Patrícia Torres; Castro Faria Neto, Hugo Caire; Castro Faria, Mauro Velho

    2012-01-01

    Although exerting valuable functions in living organisms, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) can be toxic to cells. Increased blood concentration of oleic acid (OLA) and other fatty acids is detected in many pathological conditions. In sepsis and leptospirosis, high plasma levels of NEFA and low albumin concentrations are correlated to the disease severity. Surprisingly, 24 h after intravenous or intragastric administration of OLA, main NEFA levels (OLA inclusive) were dose dependently decreased. However, lung injury was detected in intravenously treated mice, and highest dose killed all mice. When administered by the enteral route, OLA was not toxic in any tested conditions. Results indicate that OLA has important regulatory properties on fatty acid metabolism, possibly lowering circulating fatty acid through activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. The significant reduction in blood NEFA levels detected after OLA enteral administration can contribute to the already known health benefits brought about by unsaturated-fatty-acid-enriched diets. PMID:22529526

  4. Reduced plasma nonesterified fatty acid levels and the advent of an acute lung injury in mice after intravenous or enteral oleic acid administration.

    PubMed

    Gonçalves de Albuquerque, Cassiano Felippe; Burth, Patrícia; Younes Ibrahim, Mauricio; Garcia, Diogo Gomes; Bozza, Patrícia Torres; Castro Faria Neto, Hugo Caire; Castro Faria, Mauro Velho

    2012-01-01

    Although exerting valuable functions in living organisms, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) can be toxic to cells. Increased blood concentration of oleic acid (OLA) and other fatty acids is detected in many pathological conditions. In sepsis and leptospirosis, high plasma levels of NEFA and low albumin concentrations are correlated to the disease severity. Surprisingly, 24 h after intravenous or intragastric administration of OLA, main NEFA levels (OLA inclusive) were dose dependently decreased. However, lung injury was detected in intravenously treated mice, and highest dose killed all mice. When administered by the enteral route, OLA was not toxic in any tested conditions. Results indicate that OLA has important regulatory properties on fatty acid metabolism, possibly lowering circulating fatty acid through activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. The significant reduction in blood NEFA levels detected after OLA enteral administration can contribute to the already known health benefits brought about by unsaturated-fatty-acid-enriched diets.

  5. Bilateral retinoblastoma with one eye manifesting only posterior chamber infiltration and no retinal involvement.

    PubMed

    Ossandon, Diego; Kastner, Alan; Zanolli, Mario; Solanes, Federica; Pérez, Verónica; Repetto, Gabriela; Benavides, Felipe; Shields, Carol L

    2016-12-01

    We report the case of a 23-month-old girl with bilateral retinoblastoma that demonstrated absence of retinal lesions in one eye but had an isolated white tumor in the posterior chamber. Genetic testing confirmed a novel and de novo RB1 germline mutation in the proband that was not carried by her parents. After intravenous chemotherapy and brachytherapy to the eye with apparently disease-free retina, anatomic and functional preservation of the eye was achieved. The patient has been in remission for 18 months. Copyright © 2016 American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Mapping immune cell infiltration using restricted diffusion MRI.

    PubMed

    Yeh, Fang-Cheng; Liu, Li; Hitchens, T Kevin; Wu, Yijen L

    2017-02-01

    Diffusion MRI provides a noninvasive way to assess tissue microstructure. Based on diffusion MRI, we propose a model-free method called restricted diffusion imaging (RDI) to quantify restricted diffusion and correlate it with cellularity. An analytical relation between q-space signals and the density of restricted spins was derived to quantify restricted diffusion. A phantom study was conducted to investigate the performance of RDI, and RDI was applied to an animal study to assess immune cell infiltration in myocardial tissues with ischemia-reperfusion injury. Our phantom study showed a correlation coefficient of 0.998 between cell density and the restricted diffusion quantified by RDI. The animal study also showed that the high-value regions in RDI matched well with the macrophage infiltration areas in the H&E stained slides. In comparison with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), RDI exhibited its outperformance to detect macrophage infiltration and delineate inflammatory myocardium. RDI can be used to reveal cell density and detect immune cell infiltration. RDI exhibits better specificity than the diffusivity measurement derived from DTI. Magn Reson Med 77:603-612, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  7. Unusual presentation Of Sjögren-associated neuropathy with plasma cell-rich infiltrate.

    PubMed

    Naddaf, Elie; Berini, Sarah E; B Dyck, P James; Laughlin, Ruple S

    2017-04-01

    Sjögren syndrome is thought to be a lymphocyte-driven process. Peripheral nervous system involvement occurs in about 20%-25% of patients. A sensory-predominant, large-fiber peripheral neuropathy is most common, and it is usually associated with a subacute to chronic presentation. We report a rare case of an acute Sjögren-associated, sensory predominant, length-dependent peripheral neuropathy mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome. The patient presented with sensory ataxia preceded by fever and polyarthralgia. She gave a history of years of dry eyes and dry mouth. She had a positive Shirmer test, abnormal salivary gland scan, and positive SS-A and SS-B antibodies. A sural nerve biopsy showed an unusual, dense, non-IgG4, polyclonal, plasma-cell perivascular infiltrate. The patient responded to treatment with weekly pulse intravenous methylprednisolone. Sjögren syndrome can present with acute-onset, sensory predominant peripheral neuropathy. The role of plasma cells in Sjögren syndrome is unexplored and deserves further study. Muscle Nerve 55: 605-608, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Microparticles release by adipocytes act as "find-me" signals to promote macrophage migration.

    PubMed

    Eguchi, Akiko; Mulya, Anny; Lazic, Milos; Radhakrishnan, Deepa; Berk, Michael P; Povero, Davide; Gornicka, Agnieszka; Feldstein, Ariel E

    2015-01-01

    Macrophage infiltration of adipose tissue during weight gain is a central event leading to the metabolic complications of obesity. However, what are the mechanisms attracting professional phagocytes to obese adipose tissue remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that adipocyte-derived microparticles (MPs) are critical "find-me" signals for recruitment of monocytes and macrophages. Supernatants from stressed adipocytes stimulated the attraction of monocyte cells and primary macrophages. The activation of caspase 3 was required for release of these signals. Adipocytes exposed to saturated fatty acids showed marked release of MPs into the supernatant while common genetic mouse models of obesity demonstrate high levels of circulating adipocyte-derived MPs. The release of MPs was highly regulated and dependent on caspase 3 and Rho-associated kinase. Further analysis identified these MPs as a central chemoattractant in vitro and in vivo. In addition, intravenously transplanting circulating MPs from the ob/ob mice lead to activation of monocytes in circulation and adipose tissue of the wild type mice. These data identify adipocyte-derived MPs as novel "find me" signals that contributes to macrophage infiltration associated with obesity.

  9. Evaluation of humoral and cell-mediated inducible immunity to Haemophilus ducreyi in an animal model of chancroid.

    PubMed Central

    Desjardins, M; Filion, L G; Robertson, S; Kobylinski, L; Cameron, D W

    1996-01-01

    To study the mechanisms of inducible immunity to Haemophilus ducreyi infection in the temperature-dependent rabbit model of chancroid, we conducted passive immunization experiments and characterized the inflammatory infiltrate of chancroidal lesions. Polyclonal immunoglobulin G was purified from immune sera raised against H. ducreyi 35000 whole-cell lysate or a pilus preparation and from naive control rabbits. Rabbits were passively immunized with 24 or 48 mg of purified polyclonal immunoglobulin G intravenously, followed 24 h after infusion by homologous titered infectious challenge. Despite titratable antibody, no significant difference in infection or disease was observed. We then evaluated the immunohistology of lesions produced by homologous-strain challenge in sham-immunized rabbits and those protectively vaccinated by pilus preparation immunization. Immunohistochemical stains for CD5 and CD4 T-lymphocyte markers were performed on lesion sections 4, 10, 15, and 21 days from infection. Lesions of pilus preparation vaccinees compared with those of controls had earlier infiltration with significantly more T lymphocytes (CD5+) and with a greater proportion of CD4+ T lymphocytes at day 4 (33% +/- 55% versus 9.7% +/- 2%; P = 0.002), corroborating earlier sterilization (5.0 +/- 2 versus 13.7 +/- 0.71 days; P < 0.001) and lesion resolution. Intraepithelial challenge of pilus-vaccinated rabbits with 100 micrograms of the pilus preparation alone produced indurated lesions within 48 h with lymphoid and plasmacytoid infiltration, edema, and extravasation of erythrocytes. We conclude that passive immunization may not confer a vaccine effect in this model and that active vaccination with a pilus preparation induces a delayed-type hypersensitivity skin test response and confers protection through cell-mediated immunity seen as an amplified lymphocytic infiltrate and accelerated maturation of the T-lymphocyte response. PMID:8613391

  10. An immunohistochemical study of the inflammatory infiltrate associated with nasal carcinoma in dogs and cats.

    PubMed

    Vanherberghen, M; Day, M J; Delvaux, F; Gabriel, A; Clercx, C; Peeters, D

    2009-07-01

    The aims of this study were to characterize the inflammatory infiltrate associated with nasal carcinoma in dogs and cats and to determine whether this differed between the two species or with different types of carcinoma. Sections from fixed tissue biopsy samples of intranasal carcinoma from 31 dogs and six cats were labelled immunohistochemically to detect expression of the T-lymphocyte marker CD3, class II molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC II), the myelomonocytic antigen MAC387 and immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA and IgM within the cytoplasm of plasma cells. All canine carcinomas were heavily infiltrated by MAC387(+) neutrophils, with smaller numbers of MAC387(+) macrophages. T cells were particularly prominent in the infiltrate associated with transitional carcinoma, and in such tumours were frequently mixed with MHC II(+) cells having macrophage or dendritic cell morphology. IgG(+) and IgA(+) plasma cells were detected at the peripheral margins of all types of canine carcinoma. In contrast, feline intranasal carcinoma was invariably associated with a marked infiltration of CD3(+) T cells. The feline tumour infiltrates contained sparse neutrophils and macrophages and few IgG(+) and IgA(+) plasma cells. These findings suggest that qualitatively different immune responses are induced in response to specific types of canine intranasal carcinoma, and that the canine and feline immune response to these neoplasms is also distinct.

  11. Detection of atherosclerotic lesions and intimal macrophages using CD36-targeted nanovesicles.

    PubMed

    Nie, Shufang; Zhang, Jia; Martinez-Zaguilan, Raul; Sennoune, Souad; Hossen, Md Nazir; Lichtenstein, Alice H; Cao, Jun; Meyerrose, Gary E; Paone, Ralph; Soontrapa, Suthipong; Fan, Zhaoyang; Wang, Shu

    2015-12-28

    Current approaches to the diagnosis and therapy of atherosclerosis cannot target lesion-determinant cells in the artery wall. Intimal macrophage infiltration promotes atherosclerotic lesion development by facilitating the accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) and increasing inflammatory responses. The presence of these cells is positively associated with lesion progression, severity and destabilization. Hence, they are an important diagnostic and therapeutic target. The objective of this study was to noninvasively assess the distribution and accumulation of intimal macrophages using CD36-targeted nanovesicles. Soy phosphatidylcholine was used to synthesize liposome-like nanovesicles. 1-(Palmitoyl)-2-(5-keto-6-octene-dioyl) phosphatidylcholine was incorporated on their surface to target the CD36 receptor. All in vitro data demonstrate that these targeted nanovesicles had a high binding affinity for the oxLDL binding site of the CD36 receptor and participated in CD36-mediated recognition and uptake of nanovesicles by macrophages. Intravenous administration into LDL receptor null mice of targeted compared to non-targeted nanovesicles resulted in higher uptake in aortic lesions. The nanovesicles co-localized with macrophages and their CD36 receptors in aortic lesions. This molecular target approach may facilitate the in vivo noninvasive imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in terms of intimal macrophage accumulation and distribution and disclose lesion features related to inflammation and possibly vulnerability thereby facilitate early lesion detection and targeted delivery of therapeutic compounds to intimal macrophages. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Evaluation of the Predictive Validity of Thermography in Identifying Extravasation With Intravenous Chemotherapy Infusions.

    PubMed

    Matsui, Yuko; Murayama, Ryoko; Tanabe, Hidenori; Oe, Makoto; Motoo, Yoshiharu; Wagatsuma, Takanori; Michibuchi, Michiko; Kinoshita, Sachiko; Sakai, Keiko; Konya, Chizuko; Sugama, Junko; Sanada, Hiromi

    Early detection of extravasation is important, but conventional methods of detection lack objectivity and reliability. This study evaluated the predictive validity of thermography for identifying extravasation during intravenous antineoplastic therapy. Of 257 patients who received chemotherapy through peripheral veins, extravasation was identified in 26. Thermography was performed every 15 to 30 minutes during the infusions. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value using thermography were 84.6%, 94.8%, 64.7%, and 98.2%, respectively. This study showed that thermography offers an accurate prediction of extravasation.

  13. Organism Detection in Permeable Pavement Parking Lot Infiltrates at the Edison Environmental Center, New Jersey

    EPA Science Inventory

    Three types of permeable pavements were monitored at the Edison Environmental Center in Edison, New Jersey for indicator organisms such as fecal coliform, enterococci, and E. coli. Results showed that porous asphalt had much lower concentration in monitored infiltrate compared t...

  14. Adeno-associated virus mediated delivery of Tregitope 167 ameliorates experimental colitis.

    PubMed

    van der Marel, Sander; Majowicz, Anna; Kwikkers, Karin; van Logtenstein, Richard; te Velde, Anje A; De Groot, Anne S; Meijer, Sybren L; van Deventer, Sander J; Petry, Harald; Hommes, Daniel W; Ferreira, Valerie

    2012-08-28

    To explore the anti-inflammatory potential of adeno-associated virus-mediated delivery of Tregitope 167 in an experimental colitis model. The trinitrobenzene sulfonate (TNBS) model of induced colitis was used in Balb/c mice. Subsequently after intravenous adeno-associated virus-mediated regulatory T-cell epitopes (Tregitope) delivery, acute colitis was initiated by intra-rectal administration of 1.5 mg TNBS in 40% ethanol followed by a second treatment with TNBS (0.75 mg in 20% ethanol) 8 d later. Control groups included mice not treated with TNBS (healthy control group) and mice treated by TNBS only (diseased group). At the time of sacrifice colon weight, the disease activity index and histology damage score were determined. Immunohistochemical staining of the colonic tissues was performed to asses the cellular infiltrate and the presence of transcription factor forkhead Box-P3 (Foxp3). Thymus, mesenteric lymph nodes, liver and spleen tissue were collected and the corresponding lymphocyte populations were further assessed by flow cytometry analysis for the expression of CD4+ T cell and regulatory T cell associated markers. The Tregitope 167 treated mice gained an average of 4% over their initial body weight at the time of sacrifice. In contrast, the mice treated with TNBS alone (no Tregitope) developed colitis, and lost 4% of their initial body weight at the time of sacrifice (P < 0.01). The body weight increase that had been observed in the mice pre-treated with Tregitope 167 was substantiated by a lower disease activity index and a decreased colon weight as compared to the diseased control group (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Immunohistochemical staining of the colonic tissues for CD4+ showed that inflammatory cell infiltrates were present in TNBS treated mice with or without administration with tregitope 167 and that these cellular infiltrates consisted mainly of CD4+ cells. For both TNBS treated groups CD4+ T cell infiltrates were observed in the sub-epithelial layer and the lamina propria. CD4+ T cell infiltrates were also present in the muscularis mucosa layer of the diseased control mice, but were absent in the Tregitope 167 treated group. Numerous Foxp3 positive cells were detected in the lamina propria and sub-epithelium of the colon sections from mice treated with Tregitope 167. Furthermore, the Foxp3 and glycoprotein A repetitions predominant markers were significantly increased in the CD4+ T lymphocyte population in the thymus of the mice pre-treated with adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (cytomegalovirus promoter-Tregitope 167), as cytomegalovirus promoter compared to lymphocyte populations in the thymus of diseased and the healthy control mice (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). This study identifies adeno-associated virus-mediated delivery of regulatory T-cell epitope 167 as a novel anti-inflammatory approach with the capacity to decrease intestinal inflammation and induce long-term remission in inflammatory bowel disease.

  15. In vivo detection of morphological and microvascular changes of the colon in association with colitis using fiberoptic confocal imaging (FOCI).

    PubMed

    McLaren, Wendy J; Anikijenko, Peter; Thomas, Steven G; Delaney, Peter M; King, Roger G

    2002-11-01

    Using a well-established rodent model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the present study examined changes in the microvasculature of the colonic mucosa in association with ulcerative colitis (UC). The results were compared to microscopic alterations in tissue morphology to establish a temporal relationship between microcirculatory dysfunction and IBD pathology. Mild colitis was induced in rats by the oral consumption of 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water. Control animals were provided with water ad libitum. After 3, 5, and 7 days of oral ingestion of DSS, anesthetized rats were laparotomized. The mucosal surface of the distal colon was then examined using fiber optic confocal imaging (FOCI; excitation 488 nm argon ion laser, detection above 515 nm). Changes in the mucosal architecture were examined following the topical application of the fluorescent dye, tetracycline hydrochloride. Tetracycline hydrochloride, an antibiotic used widely in clinical medicine, enabled imaging of the crypts at the surface of the mucosa. Spatial changes in the microvascular structure were assessed following the intravenous administration of fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-dextran). Confocal images were correlated with clinical parameters, including weight loss, occult blood, and stool consistency. Attenuation of the colonic epithelium was detected on day 3 colitis. Morphological changes including crypt loss, crypt distortion, and inflammatory cell infiltrate were detected on day 5 and day 7 colitis. Dual channel imaging showed the mucosal capillary network outlining the stromal confines of the mucus-secreting glands in control tissue. Experimental colitis resulted in diffuse hypervascularity and tortuosity of the capillary vessels. Evidence of increased vessel leakiness (leakage of FITC-dextran from the lumen) was first detected on day 5 colitis. Complete disruption of the normal honeycomb pattern of the vessels and capillary dilation was evident after 7 days of DSS ingestion. These findings suggest that the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis is associated with changes in the vascular architecture as demonstrated in vivo using confocal microscopy.

  16. Distribution of adoptively transferred porcine T-lymphoblasts tracked by (18)F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose and position emission tomography.

    PubMed

    Eriksson, Olof; Sadeghi, Arian; Carlsson, Björn; Eich, Torsten; Lundgren, Torbjörn; Nilsson, Bo; Tötterman, Thomas; Korsgren, Olle; Sundin, Anders

    2011-08-01

    Autologous or allogeneic transfer of tumor-infiltrating T-lymphocytes is a promising treatment for metastatic cancers, but a major concern is the difficulty in evaluating cell trafficking and distribution in adoptive cell therapy. This study presents a method of tracking transfusion of T-lymphoblasts in a porcine model by (18)F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose ([(18)F]FDG) and positron emission tomography. T-lymphoblasts were labeled with the positron-emitting tracer [(18)F]FDG through incubation. The T-lymphoblasts were administered into the bloodstream, and the distribution was followed by positron emission tomography for 120 min. The cells were administered either intravenously into the internal jugular vein (n=5) or intraarterially into the ascending aorta (n=1). Two of the pigs given intravenous administration were pretreated with low-molecular-weight dextran sulphate. The cellular kinetics and distribution were readily quantifiable for up to 120 min. High (78.6% of the administered cells) heterogeneous pulmonary uptake was found after completed intravenous transfusion. The pulmonary uptake was decreased either by preincubating and coadministrating the T-lymphoblasts with low-molecular-weight dextran sulphate or by administrating them intraarterially. The present work shows the feasibility of quantitatively monitoring and evaluating cell trafficking and distribution following administration of [(18)F]FDG-labeled T-lymphoblasts. The protocol can potentially be transferred to the clinical setting with few modifications. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Doppler ultrasound to detect pulpal blood flow changes during local anaesthesia.

    PubMed

    Yoon, M J; Lee, S J; Kim, E; Park, S H

    2012-01-01

      To examine whether Doppler ultrasound can detect changes in pulpal blood flow after infiltration anaesthesia.   Changes in pulpal blood flow in maxillary central incisor teeth of 18 patients (mean age 26.7 years, 13 men, five women) after infiltration anaesthesia were examined. Before infiltration anaesthesia, the pulpal blood flow was measured using Doppler ultrasound. A local anaesthetic solution containing 2% lidocaine with 1:80,000 epinephrine was injected into the submucosa above the experimental tooth. The Doppler ultrasound test was carried out at 5, 10, 20, 30, 45 and 60 min after infiltration. The parameters were Vas (maximum linear velocity, cm s(-1) ), Vam (average linear velocity, cm s(-1) ) and Vakd (minimum linear velocity, cm s(-1) ), which are indicators of the level of blood flow. The mixed procedure at the 95% confidence interval was used to examine the changes in pulpal blood flow after the injection.   The linear velocity profiles (Vas, Vam, and Vakd) decreased sharply 5 min after anaesthesia and then reduced continuously for 30 min. The maximum degree of blood flow reduction in Vas, Vam and Vakd was 58%, 83% and 82%, respectively. After 30 min, the linear velocities increased gradually. The Vam returned to the pre-anaesthesia state at 60 minutes but the Vas and Vakd did not recover completely.   Doppler ultrasound can detect changes in pulpal blood flow after infiltration anaesthesia. In the future, Doppler ultrasound can be used as a tool for measuring pulpal blood flow. © 2011 International Endodontic Journal.

  18. Mononuclear-macrophages but not neutrophils act as major infiltrating anti-leptospiral phagocytes during leptospirosis.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xu; Li, Shi-Jun; Ojcius, David M; Sun, Ai-Hua; Hu, Wei-Lin; Lin, Xu'ai; Yan, Jie

    2017-01-01

    To identify the major infiltrating phagocytes during leptospirosis and examine the killing mechanism used by the host to eliminate Leptospira interrogans. Major infiltrating phagocytes in Leptospira-infected C3H/HeJ mice were detected by immunohistochemistry. Chemokines and vascular endothelial cell adhesion molecules (VECAMs) of Leptospira-infected mice and leptospirosis patients were detected by microarray and immunohistochemistry. Leptospira-phagocytosing and -killing abilities of human or mouse macrophages and neutrophils, and the roles of intracellular ROS, NO and [Ca2+]i in Leptospira-killing process were evaluated by confocal microscopy and spectrofluorimetry. Peripheral blood mononuclear-macrophages rather than neutrophils were the main infiltrating phagocytes in the lungs, liver and kidneys of infected mice. Levels of macrophage- but not neutrophil-specific chemokines and VECAMs were significantly increased in the samples from infected mice and patients. All macrophages tested had a higher ability than neutrophils to phagocytose and kill leptospires. Higher ROS and NO levels and [Ca2+]i in the macrophages were involved in killing leptospires. Human macrophages displayed more phagolysosome formation and a stronger leptospire-killing ability to than mouse macrophages. Mononuclear-macrophages but not neutrophils represent the main infiltrating and anti-leptospiral phagocytes during leptospirosis. A lower level of phagosome-lysosome fusion may be responsible for the lower Leptospira-killing ability of human macrophages.

  19. Phenotyping for patient safety: algorithm development for electronic health record based automated adverse event and medical error detection in neonatal intensive care.

    PubMed

    Li, Qi; Melton, Kristin; Lingren, Todd; Kirkendall, Eric S; Hall, Eric; Zhai, Haijun; Ni, Yizhao; Kaiser, Megan; Stoutenborough, Laura; Solti, Imre

    2014-01-01

    Although electronic health records (EHRs) have the potential to provide a foundation for quality and safety algorithms, few studies have measured their impact on automated adverse event (AE) and medical error (ME) detection within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment. This paper presents two phenotyping AE and ME detection algorithms (ie, IV infiltrations, narcotic medication oversedation and dosing errors) and describes manual annotation of airway management and medication/fluid AEs from NICU EHRs. From 753 NICU patient EHRs from 2011, we developed two automatic AE/ME detection algorithms, and manually annotated 11 classes of AEs in 3263 clinical notes. Performance of the automatic AE/ME detection algorithms was compared to trigger tool and voluntary incident reporting results. AEs in clinical notes were double annotated and consensus achieved under neonatologist supervision. Sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and specificity are reported. Twelve severe IV infiltrates were detected. The algorithm identified one more infiltrate than the trigger tool and eight more than incident reporting. One narcotic oversedation was detected demonstrating 100% agreement with the trigger tool. Additionally, 17 narcotic medication MEs were detected, an increase of 16 cases over voluntary incident reporting. Automated AE/ME detection algorithms provide higher sensitivity and PPV than currently used trigger tools or voluntary incident-reporting systems, including identification of potential dosing and frequency errors that current methods are unequipped to detect. 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.

  20. A simple method for in vivo labelling of infiltrating leukocytes in the mouse retina using indocyanine green dye.

    PubMed

    Sim, Dawn A; Chu, Colin J; Selvam, Senthil; Powner, Michael B; Liyanage, Sidath; Copland, David A; Keane, Pearse A; Tufail, Adnan; Egan, Catherine A; Bainbridge, James W B; Lee, Richard W; Dick, Andrew D; Fruttiger, Marcus

    2015-11-01

    We have developed a method to label and image myeloid cells infiltrating the mouse retina and choroid in vivo, using a single depot injection of indocyanine green dye (ICG). This was demonstrated using the following ocular models of inflammation and angiogenesis: endotoxin-induced uveitis, experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model. A near-infrared scanning ophthalmoscope was used for in vivo imaging of the eye, and flow cytometry was used on blood and spleen to assess the number and phenotype of labelled cells. ICG was administered 72 h before the induction of inflammation to ensure clearance from the systemic circulation. We found that in vivo intravenous administration failed to label any leukocytes, whereas depot injection, either intraperitoneal or subcutaneous, was successful in labelling leukocytes infiltrating into the retina. Progression of inflammation in the retina could be traced over a period of 14 days following a single depot injection of ICG. Additionally, bright-field microscopy, spectrophotometry and flow cytometric analysis suggest that the predominant population of cells stained by ICG are circulating myeloid cells. The translation of this approach into clinical practice would enable visualization of immune cells in situ. This will not only provide a greater understanding of pathogenesis, monitoring and assessment of therapy in many human ocular diseases but might also open the ability to image immunity live for neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disease and systemic immune-mediated disorders. © 2015. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  1. Intravenous administration of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells induces a switch from classical to atypical symptoms in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

    PubMed

    Kurte, Mónica; Bravo-Alegría, Javiera; Torres, Alexander; Carrasco, Vania; Ibáñez, Cristina; Vega-Letter, Ana María; Fernández-O'Ryan, Catalina; Irarrázabal, Carlos E; Figueroa, Fernando E; Fuentealba, Rodrigo A; Riedel, Claudia; Carrión, Flavio

    2015-01-01

    Potent immunosuppressive and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) position them as a novel therapy for autoimmune diseases. This research examines the therapeutic effect of MSCs administration at different disease stages in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Classical and atypical scores of EAE, associated with Th1 and Th17 response, respectively, and also Treg lymphocytes, were evaluated. MSCs administration at the onset (EAE+MSConset) induced an important amelioration of the clinical signs and less lasting effect at the peak of EAE (EAE+MSCpeak). No effect was observed when MSCs were applied after EAE stabilization (EAE+MSClate). Surprisingly, EAE atypical signs were detected in EAE+MSCpeak and EAE+MSClate mice. However, no correlation was found in Th17/Th1 ratio. Interestingly, regardless of time administration, MSCs significantly reduced IL-6 and also T-bet, RORγT, and Foxp3 mRNA levels in brain samples of EAE mice. The downregulation of IL-6 could restore the well-functioning of the blood-brain barrier of EAE mice, correlated with a decreased number of brain infiltrating leukocytes. These results suggest that the inflammatory status is important to be considered for administering MSCs in autoimmune pathologies, leading to a further research to clarify the effect of MSCs for multiple sclerosis.

  2. Intravenous Administration of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induces a Switch from Classical to Atypical Symptoms in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

    PubMed Central

    Kurte, Mónica; Bravo-Alegría, Javiera; Torres, Alexander; Carrasco, Vania; Ibáñez, Cristina; Vega-Letter, Ana María; Fernández-O'Ryan, Catalina; Irarrázabal, Carlos E.; Figueroa, Fernando E.; Fuentealba, Rodrigo A.; Riedel, Claudia; Carrión, Flavio

    2015-01-01

    Potent immunosuppressive and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) position them as a novel therapy for autoimmune diseases. This research examines the therapeutic effect of MSCs administration at different disease stages in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Classical and atypical scores of EAE, associated with Th1 and Th17 response, respectively, and also Treg lymphocytes, were evaluated. MSCs administration at the onset (EAE+MSConset) induced an important amelioration of the clinical signs and less lasting effect at the peak of EAE (EAE+MSCpeak). No effect was observed when MSCs were applied after EAE stabilization (EAE+MSClate). Surprisingly, EAE atypical signs were detected in EAE+MSCpeak and EAE+MSClate mice. However, no correlation was found in Th17/Th1 ratio. Interestingly, regardless of time administration, MSCs significantly reduced IL-6 and also T-bet, RORγT, and Foxp3 mRNA levels in brain samples of EAE mice. The downregulation of IL-6 could restore the well-functioning of the blood-brain barrier of EAE mice, correlated with a decreased number of brain infiltrating leukocytes. These results suggest that the inflammatory status is important to be considered for administering MSCs in autoimmune pathologies, leading to a further research to clarify the effect of MSCs for multiple sclerosis. PMID:25838828

  3. Extravasation injuries: current medical and surgical treatment.

    PubMed

    Doornaert, M; Monstrey, S; Roche, N

    2013-01-01

    Extravasation is a devastating complication of intravenous therapy that develops when a drug infiltrates the interstitial tissue surrounding the vein. Due to the uncertain and possibly dramatic outcome, early recognition and adequate treatment with the aid of a standardized protocol are needed. A pubmed literature search was conducted and all relevant articles were reviewed for the development of an extravasation treatment protocol. An overview of current treatment guidelines and clinical experience is provided. The extravasation treatment protocol was implied during 1 year in this university hospital with satisfactory outcome. Treatment starts with prevention. In case of an established extravasation injury, early recognition, assessment of severity, and treatment with medical and/or surgical therapies are recommended.

  4. A Patient with Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Serologically Diagnosed by Recombinant Nucleoprotein-Based Antibody Detection Systems

    PubMed Central

    Tang, Qing; Saijo, Masayuki; Zhang, Yuzhen; Asiguma, Muer; Tianshu, Dong; Han, Lei; Shimayi, Bawudong; Maeda, Akihiko; Kurane, Ichiro; Morikawa, Shigeru

    2003-01-01

    We treated a male patient with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF). The diagnosis of CCHF was confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR and recombinant nucleoprotein (rNP)-based immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays of serially collected serum samples. The patient was treated with intravenous ribavirin and recovered with no consequences. The study indicates that rNP-based CCHF virus antibody detection systems are useful for confirming CCHF virus infections. This case also suggests that intravenous ribavirin therapy may be promising for the treatment of CCHF patients. PMID:12738657

  5. Evaluation of the Predictive Validity of Thermography in Identifying Extravasation With Intravenous Chemotherapy Infusions

    PubMed Central

    Murayama, Ryoko; Tanabe, Hidenori; Oe, Makoto; Motoo, Yoshiharu; Wagatsuma, Takanori; Michibuchi, Michiko; Kinoshita, Sachiko; Sakai, Keiko; Konya, Chizuko; Sugama, Junko; Sanada, Hiromi

    2017-01-01

    Early detection of extravasation is important, but conventional methods of detection lack objectivity and reliability. This study evaluated the predictive validity of thermography for identifying extravasation during intravenous antineoplastic therapy. Of 257 patients who received chemotherapy through peripheral veins, extravasation was identified in 26. Thermography was performed every 15 to 30 minutes during the infusions. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value using thermography were 84.6%, 94.8%, 64.7%, and 98.2%, respectively. This study showed that thermography offers an accurate prediction of extravasation. PMID:29112585

  6. Damage Characterization in SiC/SiC Composites using Electrical Resistance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Smith, Craig E.; Xia, Zhenhai

    2011-01-01

    SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) under creep-rupture loading accumulate damage by means of local matrix cracks that typically form near a stress concentration, such as a 90o fiber tow or large matrix pore, and grow over time. Such damage is difficult to detect through conventional techniques. Electrical resistance changes can be correlated with matrix cracking to provide a means of damage detection. Sylramic-iBN fiber-reinforced SiC composites with both melt infiltrated (MI) and chemical vapor infiltrated (CVI) matrix types are compared here. Results for both systems exhibit an increase in resistance prior to fracture, which can be detected either in situ or post-damage.

  7. Bone scintigraphy for neonatal osteomyelitis: simulation by extravasation of intravenous calcium

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

    Balsam, D.; Goldfarb, C.R.; Stringer, B.

    Intravenously administered calcium gluconate has become increasingly popular in the treatment of neonatal tetany. Occasionally, extravasation results in cellulitis, leading to a clinical diagnosis of superimposed osteomyelitis. Osseous scintigraphy, as the accepted modality in the early detection of osteomyelitis, would tend to be used in this circumstance. This case illustrates a false-positive result, probably due to soft-tissue calcification.

  8. Early Anti-inflammatory and Pro-angiogenic Myocardial Effects of Intravenous Serelaxin Infusion for 72 H in an Experimental Rat Model of Acute Myocardial Infarction.

    PubMed

    Sanchez-Mas, Jesus; Lax, Antonio; Asensio-Lopez, Mari C; Lencina, Miriam; Fernandez-Del Palacio, Maria J; Soriano-Filiu, Angela; de Boer, Rudolf A; Pascual-Figal, Domingo A

    2017-12-01

    Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. At the time of AMI, a subcutaneous mini-osmotic pump was implanted and animals were randomized into three groups, according to the intravenous therapy received during the first 72 h: placebo-treated (saline), serelaxin10-treated (SRLX10 = 10 μg/kg/day), or serelaxin30-treated (SRLX30 = 30 μg/kg/day). Treatment with SRLX30 reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as the infiltration of macrophages, and increased the expression of pro-angiogenic markers and vessel density in the infarcted myocardium after 7 days. SRLX30 did not reduce early myocardial fibrosis but reduced myocardial levels of sST2 and galectin-3. No significant effects were observed with SRLX10 treatment. A significant correlation was observed between plasma levels of serelaxin and effect measures. The results suggest serelaxin has a protective effect in early processes of cardiac remodeling after AMI.

  9. Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis in Patient with Cystic Fibrosis - a Case Report

    PubMed Central

    IONESCU, Marcela Daniela; BALGRADEAN, Mihaela; MARCU, Veronica

    2014-01-01

    Asthma with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), a hypersensitivity disease of the lungs due to an immune response to Aspergillus fumigattus (Af) antigens, is rarely seen in children, other than complicating cystic fibrosis. We present the case of a 14 – year- old female teenager with cystic fibrosis (CF), admitted in our hospital with respiratory failure and persistent cyanosis. Chest X-ray showed perihilar and upper lobes pulmonary infiltrates. Her airway cultures were positive for methicillin resistant staphilococcus aureus (MRSA) and non-mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa. She was prescribed intravenous antibiotherapy with ceftazidime and vancomycine (to which MRSA and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were susceptible). Pulmonary function testing (PFT) revealed severe obstructive lung disease. After ten days of intravenous antibiotics and first five days of corticosteroid, the patient's FEV1 was 68% of predicted. Total serum IgE and IgE antibodies to Aspergillus fumigatus were elevated. These results raised the possibility of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). The possibility of ABPA should be considered in all pulmonary exacerbation and in order to determine if ABPA is developing or if an exacerbation is occurring, a serial monitoring of IgE levels should be performed. PMID:25705310

  10. Detection of wood cell wall porosity using small carbohydrate molecules and confocal fluorescence microscopy.

    PubMed

    Donaldson, L A; Kroese, H W; Hill, S J; Franich, R A

    2015-09-01

    A novel approach to nanoscale detection of cell wall porosity using confocal fluorescence microscopy is described. Infiltration of cell walls with a range of nitrophenyl-substituted carbohydrates of different molecular weights was assessed by measuring changes in the intensity of lignin fluorescence, in response to the quenching effect of the 4-nitrophenyl group. The following carbohydrates were used in order of increasing molecular weight; 4-nitrophenyl β-D-glucopyrano-side (monosaccharide), 4-nitrophenyl β-D-lactopyranoside (disaccharide), 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl β-D-maltotrioside (trisaccharide), and 4-nitrophenyl α-D-maltopentaoside (pentasaccharide). This technique was used to compare cell wall porosity in wood which had been dewatered to 40% moisture content using supercritical CO2, where cell walls remain fully hydrated, with kiln dried wood equilibrated to 12% moisture content. Infiltration of cell walls as measured by fluorescence quenching, was found to decrease with increasing molecular weight, with the pentasaccharide being significantly excluded compared to the monosaccharide. Porosity experiments were performed on blocks and sections to assess differences in cell wall accessibility. Dewatered and kiln dried wood infiltrated as blocks showed similar results, but greater infiltration was achieved by using sections, indicating that not all pores were easily accessible by infiltration from the lumen surface. In wood blocks infiltrated with 4-nitrophenyl α-D-maltopentaoside, quenching of the secondary wall was quite variable, especially in kiln dried wood, indicating limited connectivity of pores accessible from the lumen surface. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

  11. The effect of Tembusu virus infection in different week-old Cherry Valley breeding ducks.

    PubMed

    Lu, Yunjian; Dou, Yanguo; Ti, Jinfeng; Wang, Aihua; Cheng, Binghua; Zhang, Xin; Diao, Youxiang

    2016-08-30

    To study the effect of Tembusu virus (TMUV) infection on Cherry Valley Breeding ducks of different ages, 350 five-week-old ducks were divided into 14 groups. Ducks in seven experimental group were respectively infected with 1.265×10(5) mean embryo lethal dose (ELD50) of TMUV-AHQY strain (in 4.2mL) by intravenous route. Ducks in control groups were inoculated with Phosphate-buffered Saline (PBS) in the same way. Clinical symptoms, gross and microscopic lesions, viral loads and serum antibodies were detected and recorded for 20days after infection. Some ducks infected at 7 and 21 week s of age showed severe clinical symptoms including depression and inappetence, and no obvious clinical symptoms were seen in other week-old infected ducks. Severe gross lesions including hepatomegaly, meningeal congestion, myocardial hemorrhage, intestinal, myocardial and pulmonary edema were observed in ducks infected at 7, 18 and 21 weeks of age. No or mild gross lesions were observed in ducks infected at 14 and 16 weeks of age. The main microscopic lesions including hyperaemia, degeneration and necrosis of different cells and inflammatory cellular infiltration mainly consisting of mononuclear cells or lymphocytes were observed in ducks infected at 7 and 21 week of age. But relatively intact structures and rare lymphocytic infiltration were presented in ducks infected at 14 and 16 weeks of age. Viral antigen was more frequently observed in organ slices collected from 7 week-old infected ducks and few positive staining was found in 14 and 16 week-old infected ducks. Less viral loads in different tissues and swabs were detected by a quantitative real-time PCR assay. The level of viral loads in the tissues of ducks infected at 14 and 16 weeks of age was very lower than that of ducks infected at 7 and 21 weeks of age. Meanwhile, less viral copy numbers were detected in swab samples collected from 14 and 16 week-old infected ducks. Ducks infected at 14-week-old developed significantly higher serum neutralizing antibody titers than those infected at other week of age. These results indicated that the effect of TMUV infection on Cherry Valley ducks is partly related to weeks of age. 7-10 week-old and 18-21 week-old ducks were more susceptible to TMUV infection, but 14-16 week-old ducks were more resistant to this disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. On-site infiltration of road runoff using pervious pavements with subjacent infiltration trenches as source control strategy.

    PubMed

    Fach, S; Dierkes, C

    2011-01-01

    The focus in this work was on subsoil infiltration of stormwater from parking lots. With regard to operation, reduced infiltration performance due to clogging and pollutants in seepage, which may contribute to contaminate groundwater, are of interest. The experimental investigation covered a pervious pavement with a subjacent infiltration trench draining an impervious area of 2 ha. In order to consider seasonal effects on the infiltration performance, the hydraulic conductivity was measured tri-monthly during monitoring with a mobile sprinkling unit. To assess natural deposits jointing, road bed, gravel of infiltration trenches and subsoil were analysed prior to commencement of monitoring for heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic and mineral oil type hydrocarbons. Furthermore, from 22 storm events, water samples of rainfall, surface runoff, seepage and ground water were analysed with regard to the above mentioned pollutants. The study showed that the material used for the joints had a major impact on the initial as well as the final infiltration rates. Due to its poor hydraulic conductivity, limestone gravel should not be used as jointing. Furthermore, it is recommended that materials for the infiltration facilities are ensured free of any contaminants prior to construction. Polycyclic aromatic and mineral oil type hydrocarbons were, with the exception of surface runoff, below detection limits. Heavy metal concentrations of groundwater were with the exception of lead (because of high background concentrations), below the permissible limits.

  13. Performances of metal concentrations from three permeable pavement infiltrates.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jiayu; Borst, Michael

    2018-06-01

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency constructed a 4000-m 2 parking lot in Edison, New Jersey in 2009. The parking lot is surfaced with three permeable pavements [permeable interlocking concrete pavers (PICP), pervious concrete (PC), and porous asphalt (PA)]. Samples of each permeable pavement infiltrate, surface runoff from traditional asphalt, and rainwater were analyzed in duplicate for 22 metals (total and dissolved) for 6 years. In more than 99% of the samples, the concentration of barium, chromium, copper, manganese, nickel and zinc, and in 60%-90% of the samples, the concentration of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and antimony in infiltrates from all three permeable pavements met both the groundwater effluent limitations (GEL) and maximum contaminant levels (MCL). The concentration of aluminum (50%) and iron (93%) in PICP infiltrates samples exceed the GELs; however, the concentration in more than 90% samples PA and PC infiltrates met the GELs. No measurable difference in metal concentrations was found from the five sources for arsenic, cadmium, lead, antimony, and tin. Large concentrations of eleven metals, including manganese, copper, aluminum, iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, silica, strontium and vanadium, were detected in surface runoff than the rainwater. Chromium, copper, manganese, nickel, aluminum, zinc, iron and magnesium concentrations in PICP infiltrates; calcium, barium, and strontium concentrations in PA infiltrates; sodium, potassium and vanadium concentrations in PC infiltrates were statistically larger than the other two permeable pavement infiltrates. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  14. Enhanced detection of myeloperoxidase activity in deep tissues through luminescent excitation of near-infrared nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ning; Francis, Kevin P; Prakash, Arun; Ansaldi, Daniel

    2013-04-01

    A previous study reported the use of luminol for the detection of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity using optical imaging in infiltrating neutrophils under inflammatory disease conditions. The detection is based on a photon-emitting reaction between luminol and an MPO metabolite. Because of tissue absorption and scattering, however, luminol-emitted blue light can be efficiently detected from superficial inflammatory foci only. In this study we report a chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET) methodology in which luminol-generated blue light excites nanoparticles to emit light in the near-infrared spectral range, resulting in remarkable improvement of MPO detectability in vivo. CRET caused a 37-fold increase in luminescence emission over luminol alone in detecting MPO activity in lung tissues after lipopolysaccharide challenge. We demonstrated a dependence of the chemiluminescent signal on MPO activity using MPO-deficient mice. In addition, co-administration of 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide (4-ABAH), an irreversible inhibitor of MPO, significantly attenuated luminescent emission from inflamed lungs. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with a nonspecific inhibitor, L-NAME, had no effect on luminol-mediated chemiluminescence production. Pretreatment of mice with MLN120B, a selective inhibitor of IKK-2, resulted in suppression of neutrophil infiltration to the lung tissues and reduction of MPO activity. We also demonstrated that CRET can effectively detect MPO activity at deep tissue tumor foci due to tumor development-associated neutrophil infiltration. We developed a sensitive MPO detection methodology that provides a means for visualizing and quantifying oxidative stress in deep tissue. This method is amenable to rapid evaluation of anti-inflammatory agents in animal models.

  15. Targeted delivery of human iPS-ECs overexpressing IL-8 receptors inhibits neointimal and inflammatory responses to vascular injury in the rat.

    PubMed

    Giordano, Samantha; Zhao, Xiangmin; Xing, Daisy; Hage, Fadi; Oparil, Suzanne; Cooke, John P; Lee, Jieun; Nakayama, Karina H; Huang, Ngan F; Chen, Yiu-Fai

    2016-03-15

    Interleukin-8 (IL8) is highly expressed by injured arteries in a variety of diseases and is a chemoattractant for neutrophils which express IL8 receptors IL8RA and RB (IL8RA/B) on their membranes. Neutrophils interact with the damaged endothelium and initiate an inflammatory cascade at the site of injury. We have generated a novel translational targeted cell therapy for acute vascular injury using adenoviral vectors to overexpress IL8RA/B and green fluorescent protein (GFP) on the surface of endothelial cells (ECs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs). We hypothesize that HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs transfused intravenously into rats with balloon injury of the carotid artery will target to the injured site and compete with neutrophils, thus inhibiting inflammation and neointima formation. Young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent balloon injury of the right carotid artery and received intravenous transfusion of saline vehicle, 1.5 × 10(6) HiPS-ECs, 1.5 × 10(6) HiPS-Null-ECs, or 1.5 × 10(6) HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs immediately after endoluminal injury. Tissue distribution of HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs was analyzed by a novel GFP DNA qPCR method. Cytokine and chemokine expression and leukocyte infiltration were measured in injured and uninjured arteries at 24 h postinjury by ELISA and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Neointimal, medial areas, and reendothelialization were measured 14 days postinjury. HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs homed to injured arteries, inhibited inflammatory mediator expression and inflammatory cell infiltration, accelerated reendothelialization, and attenuated neointima formation after endoluminal injury while control HiPS-ECs and HiPS-Null-ECs did not. HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs transfused into rats with endoluminal carotid artery injury target to the injured artery and provide a novel strategy to treat vascular injury.

  16. Targeted delivery of human iPS-ECs overexpressing IL-8 receptors inhibits neointimal and inflammatory responses to vascular injury in the rat

    PubMed Central

    Giordano, Samantha; Zhao, Xiangmin; Xing, Daisy; Hage, Fadi; Oparil, Suzanne; Cooke, John P.; Lee, Jieun; Nakayama, Karina H.; Huang, Ngan F.

    2016-01-01

    Interleukin-8 (IL8) is highly expressed by injured arteries in a variety of diseases and is a chemoattractant for neutrophils which express IL8 receptors IL8RA and RB (IL8RA/B) on their membranes. Neutrophils interact with the damaged endothelium and initiate an inflammatory cascade at the site of injury. We have generated a novel translational targeted cell therapy for acute vascular injury using adenoviral vectors to overexpress IL8RA/B and green fluorescent protein (GFP) on the surface of endothelial cells (ECs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs). We hypothesize that HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs transfused intravenously into rats with balloon injury of the carotid artery will target to the injured site and compete with neutrophils, thus inhibiting inflammation and neointima formation. Young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent balloon injury of the right carotid artery and received intravenous transfusion of saline vehicle, 1.5 × 106 HiPS-ECs, 1.5 × 106 HiPS-Null-ECs, or 1.5 × 106 HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs immediately after endoluminal injury. Tissue distribution of HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs was analyzed by a novel GFP DNA qPCR method. Cytokine and chemokine expression and leukocyte infiltration were measured in injured and uninjured arteries at 24 h postinjury by ELISA and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Neointimal, medial areas, and reendothelialization were measured 14 days postinjury. HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs homed to injured arteries, inhibited inflammatory mediator expression and inflammatory cell infiltration, accelerated reendothelialization, and attenuated neointima formation after endoluminal injury while control HiPS-ECs and HiPS-Null-ECs did not. HiPS-IL8RA/B-ECs transfused into rats with endoluminal carotid artery injury target to the injured artery and provide a novel strategy to treat vascular injury. PMID:26801304

  17. Influence of Drugs Carried in Lipid Nanoparticles in Coronary Disease of Rabbit Transplanted Heart.

    PubMed

    Barbieri, Lucas R; Lourenço-Filho, Domingos D; Tavares, Elaine R; Carvalho, Priscila O; Gutierrez, Paulo S; Maranhão, Raul C; Stolf, Noedir A G

    2017-08-01

    Coronary allograft vasculopathy is an inflammatory-proliferative process that compromises the long-term success of heart transplantation and currently has no effective prevention and treatment. Lipid nanoparticles, termed LDE can carry chemotherapeutic agents in the circulation and concentrates them in the heart. Twenty-eight rabbits fed a cholesterol-rich diet and submitted to heterotopic heart transplantation were treated with cyclosporine A (10 mg/kg daily) and allocated to four groups of 7 animals treated with intravenous LDE-methotrexate (MTX; 4 mg/kg weekly), with LDE-paclitaxel (PACLI; 4 mg/kg weekly), or with LDE-PACLI (4 mg/kg weekly) and LDE-MTX (4 mg/kg weekly). A control group was treated with only weekly intravenous saline solution. Animals were euthanized 6 weeks later for morphometric, histologic, immunohistochemical, and gene expression analysis of the graft and native hearts. Compared with controls, grafts of rabbits treated with LDE-PACLI showed 50% reduction of coronary stenosis, and in the LDE-MTX and LDE-MTX/PACLI stenosis was approximately 18% less than in control, but this difference was not statistically significant. In the three treatment groups, macrophage infiltration was decreased. In the LDE-MTX group, gene expression of proinflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, interleukin 18, vascular cellular adhesion molecule 1, and matrix metalloproteinase 12 was strongly diminished, whereas expression of antiinflammatory interleukin 10 increased. In the LDE-PACLI and LDE-PACLI/MTX groups, proinflammatory and antiinflammatory gene expressions were not consistently changed by the treatments. LDE-PACLI promoted strong improvement of cardiac allograft vasculopathy, but the decrease in coronary stenosis by LDE-MTX and LDE-MTX/PACLI was not significant. All three treatments decreased macrophage infiltration in the graft. These results may encourage future clinical trials to test this new therapeutic approach to coronary allograft vasculopathy. Copyright © 2017 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Aggressive resection at the infiltrative margins of glioblastoma facilitated by intraoperative fluorescein guidance.

    PubMed

    Neira, Justin A; Ung, Timothy H; Sims, Jennifer S; Malone, Hani R; Chow, Daniel S; Samanamud, Jorge L; Zanazzi, George J; Guo, Xiaotao; Bowden, Stephen G; Zhao, Binsheng; Sheth, Sameer A; McKhann, Guy M; Sisti, Michael B; Canoll, Peter; D'Amico, Randy S; Bruce, Jeffrey N

    2017-07-01

    OBJECTIVE Extent of resection is an important prognostic factor in patients undergoing surgery for glioblastoma (GBM). Recent evidence suggests that intravenously administered fluorescein sodium associates with tumor tissue, facilitating safe maximal resection of GBM. In this study, the authors evaluate the safety and utility of intraoperative fluorescein guidance for the prediction of histopathological alteration both in the contrast-enhancing (CE) regions, where this relationship has been established, and into the non-CE (NCE), diffusely infiltrated margins. METHODS Thirty-two patients received fluorescein sodium (3 mg/kg) intravenously prior to resection. Fluorescence was intraoperatively visualized using a Zeiss Pentero surgical microscope equipped with a YELLOW 560 filter. Stereotactically localized biopsy specimens were acquired from CE and NCE regions based on preoperative MRI in conjunction with neuronavigation. The fluorescence intensity of these specimens was subjectively classified in real time with subsequent quantitative image analysis, histopathological evaluation of localized biopsy specimens, and radiological volumetric assessment of the extent of resection. RESULTS Bright fluorescence was observed in all GBMs and localized to the CE regions and portions of the NCE margins of the tumors, thus serving as a visual guide during resection. Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 84% of the patients with an average resected volume of 95%, and this rate was higher among patients for whom GTR was the surgical goal (GTR achieved in 93.1% of patients, average resected volume of 99.7%). Intraoperative fluorescein staining correlated with histopathological alteration in both CE and NCE regions, with positive predictive values by subjective fluorescence evaluation greater than 96% in NCE regions. CONCLUSIONS Intraoperative administration of fluorescein provides an easily visualized marker for glioma pathology in both CE and NCE regions of GBM. These findings support the use of fluorescein as a microsurgical adjunct for guiding GBM resection to facilitate safe maximal removal.

  19. Evaluation of the systemic antiinflammatory effects of levosimendan in an experimental blunt thoracic trauma model.

    PubMed

    Ateş, Gökay; Yaman, Ferda; Bakar, Bülent; Kısa, Üçler; Atasoy, Pınar; Büyükkoçak, Ünase

    2017-09-01

    Blunt thoracic injury often leads to pulmonary contusion and the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome, which carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality, originating from the local and systemic inflammatory states. This study aimed to investigate the local and systemic antiinflammatory effects of levosimendan in rat models of blunt chest trauma. A total of 32 Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to one of the following four groups: control, sham, low-dose levosimendan (LDL) (5 µg/kg loading dose for 10 min and 0.05 µg/kg/min intravenous infusion), and high-dose levosimendan (HDL) (10 µg/kg loading dose for 10 min and 0.1 µg/kg/min intravenous infusion). Blunt chest trauma was induced, and after 6 h, the contused pulmonary tissues were histopathologically and immunohistopathologically evaluated, serum TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, and NO levels were biochemically evaluated. The mean arterial pressure was low throughout the experiment in the LDL and HDL groups, with no statistically difference between the groups. Levosimendan reduced the alveolar congestion and hemorrhage, which developed after inducing trauma. Neutrophil infiltration to the damaged pulmonary tissue was also reduced in both the LDL and HDL groups. In rats in which pulmonary contusion (PC) was observed, increased activation of nuclear factor kappa B was observed in the pulmonary tissue, and levosimendan did not reduce this activation. Both high and low doses of levosimendan reduced serum IL-1ß levels, and high doses of levosimendan reduced IL-6 and NO levels. TNF-α levels were not reduced. In conclusion, the results showed that in a rat model of PC, the experimental agent levosimendan could reduce neutrophil cell infiltration to damaged pulmonary tissues and the systemic expressions of some cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-6, and NO), thereby partially reducing and/or correcting pulmonary damage. Systemic inflammatory response that occurs after trauma could also be reduced.

  20. Effects of anisodamine on the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 in experimental infusion phlebitis.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Zhen-Xiang; Wang, Peng; Zhang, Qiu-Shi; Pan, Xue; Zhao, Qing-Xia; Wang, Xiao-Kai

    2012-01-01

    Infusion phlebitis is the most common side effect of clinical intravenous drug therapy and several clinical studies have demonstrated that anisodamine can effectively prevent the occurrence of infusion phlebitis. This study was designed to investigate effects of anisodamine on the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) in a rabbit model of infusion phlebitis and to analyze the mechanisms of anisodamine effect on the prevention and treatment of experimental infusion phlebitis. Twenty-four specific pathogen-free male Japanese white rabbits were randomly assigned to the control group, the model group, the magnesium sulfate group and the anisodamine group. The rabbit model of infusion phlebitis, induced by intravenous administration, was established and expressions of VEGF and ICAM-1 were determined and contrasted with the control group treated with normal saline. We evaluated expression by histopathology, immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting assay. Pathohistological changes of the model group were observed, such as loss of venous endothelial cells, inflammatory cell infiltration, edema and thrombus. The magnesium sulfate group and the anisodamine group showed significant protective effects on vascular congestion, inflammatory cell infiltration, proliferation, swelling of endothelium and perivascular hemorrhage. The model group showed the highest expressions of VEGF and ICAM-1 of the four groups (P < 0.01). On the contrary, anisodamine alleviated the inflammatory damage by significantly reducing the expressions of VEGF and ICAM-1 compared with the model group (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the expressions of VEGF and ICAM-1 between the magnesium sulfate group and the anisodamine group (P > 0.05). Anisodamine alleviates inflammatory damage by significantly reducing the expressions of VEGF and ICAM-1, and shows significant protective effects in an animal model of infusion phlebitis.

  1. IgG4-related cerebral pseudotumor with perineural spreading along branches of the trigeminal nerves causing compressive optic neuropathy: A case report.

    PubMed

    Wu, Po-Chang; Tien, Peng-Tai; Li, Ying-Hsuan; Chen, Rui-Yun; Cho, Der-Yang

    2017-11-01

    Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is characterized by tumor-like lesions, a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate rich in IgG4-positive plasma cells, storiform fibrosis, and obliterative phlebitis. IgG4-RD has been described in a variety of organ systems; however, it rarely involves the central nervous system. A 17-year-old woman visited our clinic with a complaint of blurred vision for the past 5 months. She also reported a painless right submandibular mass that had been present for 1 year. Her best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 2.0 LogMAR, with an almost total visual field defect in the right eye. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed lobulated parasellar tumors with perineural spreading along branches of the trigeminal nerves causing right optic nerve compression. A craniotomy with tumor removal and submandibular gland biopsy was performed. Histopathological analysis of the tumor revealed stromal fibrosis with atypical lymphoid infiltrations. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of the submandibular gland confirmed the diagnosis of IgG4-RD. The patient was administered 500mg/d of pulse methylprednisolone for 3 days, 500mg of intravenous rituximab every 2 weeks (for a total of 2 doses), and 500mg of intravenous pulse cyclophosphamide every month (for a total of 3 doses). Two months after the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, the patient's BCVA returned to 0.1 LogMAR with visual field defect recovery. The follow-up MRI showed the almost complete disappearance of the previously contrast-enhanced lesions. Herein, we report a rare case of IgG4-RD presenting as a parasellar tumor and present a review of the related literature. Based on the case report, we propose that aggressive therapy with glucocorticoid, rituximab, and cyclophosphamide may potentially be useful for treating such cases. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Comprehensive morphometric analysis of mononuclear cell infiltration during experimental renal allograft rejection.

    PubMed

    Hoffmann, Ute; Bergler, Tobias; Jung, Bettina; Steege, Andreas; Pace, Claudia; Rümmele, Petra; Reinhold, Stephan; Krüger, Bernd; Krämer, Bernhard K; Banas, Bernhard

    2013-01-01

    The role of specific subtypes of infiltrating cells in acute kidney allograft rejection is still not clear and was so far not examined by different analyzing methods under standardized conditions of an experimental kidney transplantation model. Immunohistochemical staining of CD3, CD20 and CD68 was performed in rat allografts, in syngeneically transplanted rats and in control rats with a test duration of 6 and 28 days. The detailed expression and localization of infiltrating cells were analyzed manually in different kidney compartments under light microscope and by the two different morphometric software programs. Data were correlated with the corresponding kidney function as well as with histopathological classification. The information provided by the morphometric software programs on the infiltration of the specific cell types after renal transplantation was in accordance with the manual analysis. Morphometric methods were solid to analyze reliably the induction of cellular infiltrates after renal transplantation. By manual analysis we could clearly demonstrate the detailed localization of the specific cell infiltrates in the different kidney compartments. Besides infiltration of CD3 and CD68 infiltrating cells, a robust infiltration of CD20 B-cells in allogeneically transplanted rats, even at early time points after transplantation was detected. Additionally an MHC class I expression could reliable be seen in allogeneically transplanted rats. The infiltration of B-cells and the reliable antigen presentation might act as a silent subclinical trigger for subsequent chronic rejection and premature graft loss. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Catheter indwell time and phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration.

    PubMed

    Pasalioglu, Kadriye Burcu; Kaya, Hatice

    2014-07-01

    Intravenous catheters have been indispensable tools of modern medicine. Although intravenous applications can be used for a multitude of purposes, these applications may cause complications, some of which have serious effects. Of these complications, the most commonly observed is phlebitis. This study was conducted to determine the effect of catheter indwell time on phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration. This study determined the effect of catheter indwell time on phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration. The study included a total of 103 individuals who were administered 439 catheters and satisfied the study enrollment criteria at one infectious diseases clinic in Istanbul/Turkey. Data were compiled from Patient Information Forms, Peripheral Intravenous Catheter and Therapy Information Forms, reported grades based on the Visual Infusion Phlebitis Assessment Scale, and Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Nurse Observation Forms. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Results : The mean patient age was 53.75±15.54 (standard deviation) years, and 59.2% of the study participants were men. Phlebitis was detected in 41.2% of peripheral intravenous catheters, and the rate decreased with increased catheter indwell time. Analyses showed that catheter indwell time, antibiotic usage, sex, and catheterization sites were significantly associated with development of phlebitis. The results of this study show that catheters can be used for longer periods of time when administered under optimal conditions and with appropriate surveillance.

  4. Catheter indwell time and phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration

    PubMed Central

    Pasalioglu, Kadriye Burcu; Kaya, Hatice

    2014-01-01

    Objective: Intravenous catheters have been indispensable tools of modern medicine. Although intravenous applications can be used for a multitude of purposes, these applications may cause complications, some of which have serious effects. Of these complications, the most commonly observed is phlebitis. This study was conducted to determine the effect of catheter indwell time on phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration. Methods: This study determined the effect of catheter indwell time on phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration. The study included a total of 103 individuals who were administered 439 catheters and satisfied the study enrollment criteria at one infectious diseases clinic in Istanbul/Turkey. Data were compiled from Patient Information Forms, Peripheral Intravenous Catheter and Therapy Information Forms, reported grades based on the Visual Infusion Phlebitis Assessment Scale, and Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Nurse Observation Forms. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Results : The mean patient age was 53.75±15.54 (standard deviation) years, and 59.2% of the study participants were men. Phlebitis was detected in 41.2% of peripheral intravenous catheters, and the rate decreased with increased catheter indwell time. Analyses showed that catheter indwell time, antibiotic usage, sex, and catheterization sites were significantly associated with development of phlebitis. Conclusion: The results of this study show that catheters can be used for longer periods of time when administered under optimal conditions and with appropriate surveillance. PMID:25097505

  5. Myocardial inflammation, cellular death, and viral detection in sudden infant death caused by SIDS, suffocation, or myocarditis.

    PubMed

    Krous, Henry F; Ferandos, Christine; Masoumi, Homeyra; Arnold, John; Haas, Elisabeth A; Stanley, Christina; Grossfeld, Paul D

    2009-07-01

    The significance of minor myocardial inflammatory infiltrates and viral detection in SIDS is controversial. We retrospectively compared the demographic profiles, myocardial inflammation, cardiomyocyte necrosis, and myocardial virus detection in infants who died of SIDS in a safe sleep environment, accidental suffocation, or myocarditis. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded myocardial sections were semiquantitatively assessed for CD3 lymphocytes and CD68 macrophages using immunohistochemistry and for cardiomyocyte cell death in H&E-stained sections. Enteroviruses and adenoviruses were searched for using PCR technology. The means of lymphocytes, macrophages, and necrotic cardiomyocytes were not statistically different in SIDS and suffocation cases. Enterovirus, not otherwise specified, was detected in one suffocation case and was the only virus detected in the three groups. Very mild myocardial lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration and scattered necrotic cardiomyocytes in SIDS are not pathologic, but may occur after the developing heart is exposed to environmental pathogens, including viruses.

  6. 78 FR 29331 - Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Provisions; Horseshoe Crabs; Application...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-20

    ... product used for the detection of endotoxins. The LAL assay is used by medical professionals, drug companies, and pharmacies to detect endotoxins in intravenous pharmaceuticals and medical devices that come...

  7. 77 FR 55457 - Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Provisions; Horseshoe Crabs; Application...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-10

    ... product used for the detection of endotoxins. The LAL assay is used by medical professionals, drug companies, and pharmacies to detect endotoxins in intravenous pharmaceuticals and medical devices that come...

  8. Effects of albendazole nanoparticles in mice with hepatic echinococosis: Portal vein cannulation versus intravenous administration.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Di-Wen; Zhang, Ming-Xing; Bao, Ying-Jun; Gu, Jun-Peng; Ji, Wei-Zheng; Zhang, Hai-Xiao; Ren, Wei-Xin

    2015-07-01

    To compare the ABZ and its metabolites concentration in cyst tissue of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis administered by different routes, forty male Wistar rats receiving albendazole nanoparticles from tail vein and portal vein were divided into two groups, the concentration of ABZ and its metabolites ABZSO, ABZSO2, in the cyst tissue, were analyzed by HPLC at 2, 4, 8, 24, 36 h after administration. The parent drug and its metabolites were detected in plasm and the cyst tissue after portal cannulation and intravenous administration. The last results were the concentration of ABZ in the portal cannulation group was higher than in the intravenous group at every time point (p < 0.05). Compared to the intravenous group, the portal cannulation administration of ABZ led to a lower plasm concentration of ABZ. The concentration of ABZ and the active ABZSO were significantly higher in the portal cannulation group than that of the intravenous group. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Anesthetic Efficacy of 4 % Articaine During Extraction of the Mandibular Posterior Teeth by Using Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block and Buccal Infiltration Techniques.

    PubMed

    El-Kholey, Khalid E

    2017-03-01

    The study was designed to evaluate the anesthetic efficacy of 4 % articaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine (A100) in infiltration and inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) anesthetic techniques for the pain control during extraction of the mandibular posterior teeth. This prospective randomized single-blind clinical trial included 100 patients needing extraction of at least two mandibular molars. Patients received either infiltration in the buccal vestibule opposite to the first molar supplemented with lingual infiltration or standard IANB with A100. For assessment of depth of anesthesia obtained by the two anaethetic techniques, presence or absence of pain during the extraction were rated using the visual analog scale. Fifty patients received infiltration anesthesia and fifty patients were anesthetized by IANB. The success rate of pain-free extraction after buccal infiltration was 94 %, whereas by using IANB with the same anesthetic it was 92 %. No statistical differences were detected in the success rates between the two anesthetic techniques ( P  = 0.15). Buccal Infiltration can be considered a good option during extraction of the mandibular molar and premolar teeth of course, with supplemental lingual anesthesia.

  10. 3 Tesla proton MRI for the diagnosis of pneumonia/lung infiltrates in neutropenic patients with acute myeloid leukemia: initial results in comparison to HRCT.

    PubMed

    Attenberger, U I; Morelli, J N; Henzler, T; Buchheidt, D; Fink, C; Schoenberg, S O; Reichert, M

    2014-01-01

    To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 3 Tesla proton MRI for the assessment of pneumonia/lung infiltrates in neutropenic patients with acute myeloid leukemia. In a prospective study, 3 Tesla MRI was performed in 19 febrile neutropenic patients (5 women, 14 men; mean age 61 years ± 14.2; range 23-77 years). All patients underwent high-resolution CT less than 24h prior to MRI. The MRI protocol (Magnetom Tim Trio, Siemens) included a T2-weighted HASTE sequence (TE/TR: 49 ms/∞, slice thickness 6mm) and a high-resolution 3D VIBE sequence with an ultra-short TE<1 ms (TE/TR 0.8/2.9 ms, slice thickness 2mm). The VIBE sequence was examined before and after intravenous injection of 0.1 mmol/kg gadoterate meglumine (Dotarem, Guerbet). The presence of pulmonary abnormalities, their location within the lung, and lesion type (nodules, consolidations, glass opacity areas) were analyzed by one reader and compared to the findings of HRCT, which was evaluated by a second independent radiologist who served as the reference standard. The findings were compared per lobe in each patient and rated as true positive (TP) findings if all three characteristics (presence, location, and lesion type) listed above were concordant to HRCT. Pulmonary abnormalities were characterized by 3 Tesla MRI with a sensitivity of 82.3% and a specificity of 78.6%, resulting in an overall accuracy of 88% (NPV/PPV 66.7%/89.5%). In 51 lobes (19 of 19 patients), pulmonary abnormalities visualized by MR were judged to be concordant in their location and in the lesion type identified by both readers. In 22 lobes (11 of 19 patients), no abnormalities were present on either MR or HRCT (true negative). In 6 lobes (5 of 19 patients), ground glass opacity areas were detected on MRI but were not visible on HRCT (false positives). In 11 lobes (7 of 19 patients), MRI failed to detect ground glass opacity areas identified by HRCT. However, since the abnormalities were disseminated in these patients, accurate treatment decisions were possible in every case based on MRI. In one case MRI showed a central area of cavitation, which was not visualized by HRCT. Infectious nodules and consolidations can be detected in neutropenic patients with acute myeloid leukemia with a sufficient diagnostic accuracy by 3 Tesla MRI. Detection of ground glass opacity areas is the main limitation of 3-Tesla MRI when compared to HRCT. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Lipoxins and novel 15-epi-lipoxin analogs display potent anti-inflammatory actions after oral administration.

    PubMed

    Bannenberg, Gerard; Moussignac, Rose-Laure; Gronert, Karsten; Devchand, Pallavi R; Schmidt, Birgitta A; Guilford, William J; Bauman, John G; Subramanyam, Babu; Perez, H Daniel; Parkinson, John F; Serhan, Charles N

    2004-09-01

    1. Lipoxins (LX) and aspirin-triggered 15-epi-lipoxins (ATL) exert potent anti-inflammatory actions. In the present study, we determined the anti-inflammatory efficacy of endogenous LXA(4) and LXB(4), the stable ATL analog ATLa2, and a series of novel 3-oxa-ATL analogs (ZK-996, ZK-990, ZK-994, and ZK-142) after intravenous, oral, and topical administration in mice. 2. LXA(4), LXB(4), ATLa2, and ZK-994 were orally active, exhibiting potent systemic inhibition of zymosan A-induced peritonitis at very low doses (50 ng kg(-1)-50 microg kg(-1)). 3. Intravenous ZK-994 and ZK-142 (500 microg kg(-1)) potently attenuated hind limb ischemia/reperfusion-induced lung injury, with 32+/-12 and 53+/-5% inhibition (P<0.05), respectively, of neutrophil accumulation in lungs. The same dose of ATLa2 had no significant protective action. 4. Topical application of ATLa2, ZK-994, and ZK-142 ( approximately 20 microg cm(-2)) prevented vascular leakage and neutrophil infiltration in LTB(4)/PGE(2)-stimulated ear skin inflammation. While ATLa2 and ZK-142 displayed approximately equal anti-inflammatory efficacy in this model, ZK-994 displayed a slower onset of action. 5. In summary, native LXA(4) and LXB(4), and analogs ATLa2, ZK-142, and ZK-994 retain broad anti-inflammatory effects after intravenous, oral, and topical administration. The 3-oxa-ATL analogs, which have enhanced metabolic and chemical stability and a superior pharmacokinetic profile, provide new opportunities to explore the actions and therapeutic potential for LX and ATL.

  12. Low immunogenicity of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and in vivo

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

    Lee, Miyoung; Jeong, Sang Young; Ha, Jueun

    2014-04-18

    Highlights: • hUCB-MSCs maintained low immunogenicity even after immune challenge in vitro. • Humanized NSG mice were established using human UCB CD34+ cells. • Repeated intravenous hUCB-MSC injection into mice did not lead to immune responses and adverse events. • Allogeneic hUCB-MSCs maintained low immunogenicity in vitro and in vivo. - Abstract: Evaluation of the immunogenicity of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an allogeneic setting during therapy has been hampered by lack of suitable models due to technical and ethical limitations. Here, we show that allogeneic human umbilical cord blood derived-MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) maintained low immunogenicity even after immune challengemore » in vitro. To confirm these properties in vivo, a humanized mouse model was established by injecting isolated hUCB-derived CD34+ cells intravenously into immunocompromised NOD/SCID IL2γnull (NSG) mice. After repeated intravenous injection of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) or MRC5 cells into these mice, immunological alterations including T cell proliferation and increased IFN-γ, TNF-α, and human IgG levels, were observed. In contrast, hUCB-MSC injection did not elicit these responses. While lymphocyte infiltration in the lung and small intestine and reduced survival rates were observed after hPBMC or MRC5 transplantation, no adverse events were observed following hUCB-MSC introduction. In conclusion, our data suggest that allogeneic hUCB-MSCs have low immunogenicity in vitro and in vivo, and are therefore “immunologically safe” for use in allogeneic clinical applications.« less

  13. Evaluation of Mucorales DNA load in cerebrospinal fluid in a patient with possible cerebral mucormycosis treated with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B.

    PubMed

    Shigemura, Tomonari; Nakazawa, Yozo; Matsuda, Kazuyuki; Motobayashi, Mitsuo; Saito, Shoji; Koike, Kenichi

    2014-12-01

    We report the case of a 19-year-old male with possible cerebral mucormycosis following chemotherapy. We detected a Lichtheimia DNA load of 2.0×10(4) copies/ml in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), although a CSF culture showed no growth. After treatment with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B, the Lichtheimia DNA load fell below the detection limit, and at the same time the patient's headache and imaging findings improved. The quantification of Mucorales DNA in CSF may be useful for evaluating cerebral mucormycosis. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  14. 75 FR 31421 - Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Provisions; Application for Exempted...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-03

    ... Lysate (LAL), an important health and safety product used for the detection of endotoxins. The LAL assay is used by medical professionals, drug companies, and pharmacies to detect endotoxins in intravenous...

  15. Biochemical sensor tubing for point-of-care monitoring of intravenous drugs and metabolites.

    PubMed

    Choi, Charles J; Wu, Hsin-Yu; George, Sherine; Weyhenmeyer, Jonathan; Cunningham, Brian T

    2012-02-07

    In medical facilities, there is strong motivation to develop detection systems that can provide continuous analysis of fluids in medical tubing used to either deliver or remove fluids from a patient's body. Possible applications include systems that increase the safety of intravenous (IV) drug injection and point-of-care health monitoring. In this work, we incorporated a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor comprised of an array of closely spaced metal nanodomes into flexible tubing commonly used for IV drug delivery and urinary catheters. The nanodome sensor was fabricated by a low-cost, large-area process that enables single use disposable operation. As exemplary demonstrations, the sensor was used to kinetically detect promethazine (pain medication) and urea (urinary metabolite) within their clinically relevant concentration ranges. Distinct SERS peaks for each analyte were used to demonstrate separate detection and co-detection of the analytes.

  16. Bone marrow uptake of 99mTc-MIBI in patients with multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Fonti, R; Del Vecchio, S; Zannetti, A; De Renzo, A; Di Gennaro, F; Catalano, L; Califano, C; Pace, L; Rotoli, B; Salvatore, M

    2001-02-01

    In a previous study, we showed the ability of technetium-99m methoxyisobutylisonitrile (99mTc-MIBI) scan to identify active disease in patients with multiple myeloma (Eur J Nucl Med 1998; 25: 714-720). In particular, a semiquantitative score of the extension and intensity of bone marrow uptake was derived and correlated with both the clinical status of the disease and plasma cell bone marrow infiltration. In order to estimate quantitatively 99mTc-MIBI bone marrow uptake and to verify the intracellular localization of the tracer, bone marrow samples obtained from 24 multiple myeloma patients, three patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and two healthy donors were studied for in vitro uptake. After centrifugation over Ficoll-Hypaque gradient, cell suspensions were incubated with 99mTc-MIBI and the uptake was expressed as the percentage of radioactivity specifically retained within the cells. The cellular localization of the tracer was assessed by micro-autoradiography. Twenty-two out of 27 patients underwent 99mTc-MIBI scan within a week of bone marrow sampling. Whole-body images were obtained 10 min after intravenous injection of 555 MBq of the tracer; the extension and intensity of 99mTc-MIBI uptake were graded using the semiquantitative score. A statistically significant correlation was found between in vitro uptake of 99mTc-MIBI and both plasma cell infiltration (Pearson's coefficient of correlation r=0.69, P<0.0001) and in vivo score (Spearman rank correlation coefficient r=0.60, P<0.01). No specific tracer uptake was found in bone marrow samples obtained from the two healthy donors. Micro-autoradiography showed localization of 99mTc-MIBI inside the plasma cells infiltrating the bone marrow. Therefore, our findings show that the degree of tracer uptake both in vitro and in vivo is related to the percentage of infiltrating plasma cells which accumulate the tracer in their inner compartments.

  17. No benefit of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane blocks over wound infiltration with local anaesthetic in elective laparoscopic colonic surgery: results of a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Rashid, A; Gorissen, K J; Ris, F; Gosselink, M P; Shorthouse, J R; Smith, A D; Pandit, J J; Lindsey, I; Crabtree, N A

    2017-07-01

    Advances in laparoscopic techniques combined with enhanced recovery pathways have led to faster recuperation and discharge after colorectal surgery. Peripheral nerve blockade using transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks reduce opioid requirements and provide better analgesia for laparoscopic colectomies than do inactive controls. This double-blind randomized study was performed to compare TAP blocks using bupivacaine with standardized wound infiltration with local anaesthetic (LA). Seventy-one patients were randomized to receive either TAP block or wound infiltration. The TAP blocks were performed by experienced anaesthetists who used ultrasound guidance to deliver 40 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine post-induction into the transverse abdominis plane. In the control group, 40 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine was injected around the trocar and the extraction site by the surgeon. Both groups received patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) with intravenous morphine. Patients and nursing staff assessed pain scores 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after surgery. The primary outcome was overall morphine use in the first 48 h. Of the 71 patients, 20 underwent a right hemicolectomy and 51 a high anterior resection. The modified intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant differences in overall morphine use [47.3 (36.2-58.5) mg vs 46.7 (36.2-57.3) mg; mean (95% CI), P = 0.8663] in the first 48 h. Pain scores were similar at 6, 12, 24 and 48 h. No differences were found regarding time to mobilization, resumption of diet and length of hospital stay. In elective laparoscopic colectomies, standardized wound infiltration with LA has the same analgesic effect as TAP blocks post-induction using bupivacaine at 48 h. Colorectal Disease © 2016 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.

  18. Modulation of the Early Inflammatory Microenvironment in the Alkali-Burned Eye by Systemically Administered Interferon-γ-Treated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells

    PubMed Central

    Javorkova, Eliska; Trosan, Peter; Zajicova, Alena; Krulova, Magdalena; Hajkova, Michaela

    2014-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of systemically administered bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) on the early acute phase of inflammation in the alkali-burned eye. Mice with damaged eyes were either untreated or treated 24 h after the injury with an intravenous administration of fluorescent-dye-labeled MSCs that were unstimulated or pretreated with interleukin-1α (IL-1α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), or interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Analysis of cell suspensions prepared from the eyes of treated mice on day 3 after the alkali burn revealed that MSCs specifically migrated to the damaged eye and that the number of labeled MSCs was more than 30-times higher in damaged eyes compared with control eyes. The study of the composition of the leukocyte populations within the damaged eyes showed that all types of tested MSCs slightly decreased the number of infiltrating lymphoid and myeloid cells, but only MSCs pretreated with IFN-γ significantly decreased the percentage of eye-infiltrating cells with a more profound effect on myeloid cells. Determining cytokine and NO production in the damaged eyes confirmed that the most effective immunomodulation was achieved with MSCs pretreated with IFN-γ, which significantly decreased the levels of the proinflammatory molecules IL-1α, IL-6, and NO. Taken together, the results show that systemically administered MSCs specifically migrate to the damaged eye and that IFN-γ-pretreated MSCs are superior in inhibiting the acute phase of inflammation, decreasing leukocyte infiltration, and attenuating the early inflammatory environment. PMID:24849741

  19. Histopathology of humorally mediated anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) glomerulonephritis in mice.

    PubMed

    Le Hir, Michel

    2004-07-01

    From a diagnostic point of view it would be important to learn more about the relationship between the immune responses underlying glomerulonephritis and the patterns of glomerular lesions. A murine model of anti-GBM glomerulonephritis in which inflammation is driven by delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) has been studied extensively. The aim of this study was to uncover histological features that might be specific for anti-GBM glomerulonephritis driven by a humoral immune response. BALB/c mice were immunized with rabbit IgG in incomplete Freund's adjuvant. Six days later, on day 0, they received rabbit anti-GBM serum intravenously. Proteinuria was assessed with dipsticks. Mice were killed on days 4, 8 or 14. Kidneys from days 4 and 8 were processed for immunofluorescence and histology. On day 14 mice were perfusion-fixed for electron microscopy. Proteinuria started on day 3. Autologous IgG and of C3 were found along the GBM. There was only slight infiltration with macrophages and no measurable infiltration by CD4 T cells, indicating the virtual absence of DTH. Besides infiltration with neutrophils there were little histological alterations on day 4. On day 8 many loops were hyalinized. On day 14, cellular crescents were found in 23% of glomeruli. Subendothelial spaces contained hyaline material, cells and fibrin. Podocytes displayed effacement of foot processes and apical microprotrusions. Podocyte bridges were common. These alterations were identical to those reported in the standard model that produces a DTH-like inflammation. The qualitative pattern of histological damage in a murine model of anti-GBM glomerulonephritis does not depend on the underlying immunological process.

  20. Soil hydraulic properties estimate based on numerical analysis of disc infiltrometer three-dimensional infiltration curve

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Latorre, Borja; Peña-Sancho, Carolina; Angulo-Jaramillo, Rafaël; Moret-Fernández, David

    2015-04-01

    Measurement of soil hydraulic properties is of paramount importance in fields such as agronomy, hydrology or soil science. Fundamented on the analysis of the Haverkamp et al. (1994) model, the aim of this paper is to explain a technique to estimate the soil hydraulic properties (sorptivity, S, and hydraulic conductivity, K) from the full-time cumulative infiltration curves. The method (NSH) was validated by means of 12 synthetic infiltration curves generated with HYDRUS-3D from known soil hydraulic properties. The K values used to simulate the synthetic curves were compared to those estimated with the proposed method. A procedure to identify and remove the effect of the contact sand layer on the cumulative infiltration curve was also developed. A sensitivity analysis was performed using the water level measurement as uncertainty source. Finally, the procedure was evaluated using different infiltration times and data noise. Since a good correlation between the K used in HYDRUS-3D to model the infiltration curves and those estimated by the NSH method was obtained, (R2 =0.98), it can be concluded that this technique is robust enough to estimate the soil hydraulic conductivity from complete infiltration curves. The numerical procedure to detect and remove the influence of the contact sand layer on the K and S estimates seemed to be robust and efficient. An effect of the curve infiltration noise on the K estimate was observed, which uncertainty increased with increasing noise. Finally, the results showed that infiltration time was an important factor to estimate K. Lower values of K or smaller uncertainty needed longer infiltration times.

  1. Agreement between preoperative transvaginal ultrasound and intraoperative macroscopic examination for assessing myometrial infiltration in low-risk endometrioid carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Pineda, L; Alcázar, J L; Caparrós, M; Mínguez, J A; Idoate, M A; Quiceno, H; Solórzano, J L; Jurado, M

    2016-03-01

    To compare diagnostic performance of preoperative transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and intraoperative macroscopic examination for determining myometrial infiltration in women with low-risk endometrial cancer, and to estimate the agreement between the two methods. This was a single-center observational study comprising women with preoperative diagnosis of well- or moderately differentiated endometrioid carcinoma of the endometrium. All women underwent preoperative TVS by a single examiner. According to the examiner's subjective impression, myometrial infiltration was stated as ≥ 50% or < 50%. Surgical staging was performed in all cases. Intraoperative macroscopic examination of the removed uterus was performed by pathologists who were unaware of the ultrasound findings, and myometrial infiltration was stated as ≥ 50% or < 50%. Definitive histological diagnosis of myometrial infiltration was made by frozen section analysis and was used as the gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity with 95% CIs were calculated for TVS and intraoperative macroscopic inspection and compared using McNemar's test. Agreement between TVS and intraoperative macroscopic inspection was estimated using Cohen's kappa index (κ) and percentage of agreement. Of 209 eligible women, 152 were ultimately included. Mean (± SD) age was 60.9 ± 10.2 years, with a range of 32-91 years. Definitive histological diagnosis revealed that myometrial infiltration was < 50% in 114 women and ≥ 50% in 38 women. Sensitivity and specificity of TVS for detecting deep myometrial infiltration were 81.6% and 89.5%, respectively, whereas the respective values for intraoperative macroscopic examination were 78.9% and 90.4% (McNemar's test, P > 0.05 when comparing TVS and intraoperative macroscopic examination). Agreement between methods was moderate with κ = 0.54 (95% CI, 0.39-0.69) and percentage of agreement of 82%. Although the agreement between preoperative TVS and intraoperative macroscopic examination for detecting deep myometrial infiltration was only moderate, both methods had similar accuracy when compared with frozen section histology. Preoperative TVS might reasonably be proposed as a method for assessing myometrial infiltration as an alternative to intraoperative macroscopic examination, especially when performed by an experienced examiner and image quality is not poor. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. Effects of indigo carmine intravenous injection on noninvasive and continuous total hemoglobin measurement with using the Revision L sensor.

    PubMed

    Isosu, Tsuyoshi; Obara, Shinju; Hakozaki, Takahiro; Imaizumi, Tsuyoshi; Iseki, Yuzo; Mogami, Midori; Ohashi, Satoshi; Ikegami, Yukihiro; Kurosawa, Shin; Murakawa, Masahiro

    2017-04-01

    The effects of intravenous injection of indigo carmine on noninvasive and continuous total hemoglobin (SpHb) measurement were retrospectively evaluated with the Revision L sensor. The subjects were 18 patients who underwent elective gynecologic surgery under general anesthesia. During surgery, 5 mL of 0.4 % indigo carmine was injected intravenously, and changes in SpHb concentrations between before and after the injection were evaluated. The mean age was 52.4 ± 12.8 years. Before injection, the median SpHb level was 10.1 (range, 6.8-13.4) g/dL. The results demonstrated no change in SpHb concentration between before and after indigo carmine injection as detected by the Revision L sensor. SpHb measurements as determined with the Revision L sensor were not affected, even after the intravenous injection of indigo carmine.

  3. Tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes improve clinical outcome of therapy-resistant neuroblastoma.

    PubMed

    Mina, Marco; Boldrini, Renata; Citti, Arianna; Romania, Paolo; D'Alicandro, Valerio; De Ioris, Maretta; Castellano, Aurora; Furlanello, Cesare; Locatelli, Franco; Fruci, Doriana

    2015-09-01

    Neuroblastoma grows within an intricate network of different cell types including epithelial, stromal and immune cells. The presence of tumor-infiltrating T cells is considered an important prognostic indicator in many cancers, but the role of these cells in neuroblastoma remains to be elucidated. Herein, we examined the relationship between the type, density and organization of infiltrating T cells and clinical outcome within a large collection of neuroblastoma samples by quantitative analysis of immunohistochemical staining. We found that infiltrating T cells have a prognostic value greater than, and independent of, the criteria currently used to stage neuroblastoma. A variable in situ structural organization and different concurrent infiltration of T-cell subsets were detected in tumors with various outcomes. Low-risk neuroblastomas were characterized by a higher number of proliferating T cells and a more structured T-cell organization, which was gradually lost in tumors with poor prognosis. We defined an immunoscore based on the presence of CD3 + , CD4 + and CD8 + infiltrating T cells that associates with favorable clinical outcome in MYCN-amplified tumors, improving patient survival when combined with the v-myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene neuroblastoma derived homolog (MYCN) status. These findings support the hypothesis that infiltrating T cells influence the behavior of neuroblastoma and might be of clinical importance for the treatment of patients.

  4. Multiple etiologies of axonal sensory motor polyneuropathy in a renal transplant recipient: a case report

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Introduction Neurological complications leading to morbidity and mortality are not frequent in renal transplant recipients. Here, we report a renal transplant recipient who presented with diminished strength in his limbs probably due to multiple etiologies of axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy, which resolved with intravenous immunoglobulin. Case presentation A 49-year-old Iranian male renal transplant recipient with previous history of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease presented with diminished strength in his limbs one month after surgery. Our patient was on cyclosporine A, mycophenolate mofetil and prednisone. Although a detected hypophosphatemia was corrected with supplemental phosphate, the loss of strength was still slowly progressive and diffuse muscular atrophy was remarkable in his trunk, upper limb and pelvic girdle. Meanwhile, his cranial nerves were intact. Post-transplant diabetes mellitus was diagnosed and insulin therapy was initiated. In addition, as a high serum cyclosporine level was detected, the dose of cyclosporine was reduced. Our patient was also put on intravenous ganciclovir due to positive serum cytomegalovirus immunoglobulin M antibody. Despite the reduction of oral cyclosporine dose along with medical therapy for the cytomegalovirus infection and diabetes mellitus, his muscular weakness and atrophy did not improve. One week after administration of intravenous immunoglobulin, a significant improvement was noted in his muscular weakness. Conclusion A remarkable response to intravenous immunoglobulin is compatible with an immunological basis for the present condition (post-transplant polyneuropathy). In cases of post-transplant polyneuropathy with a high clinical suspicion of immunological origin, administration of intravenous immunoglobulin may be recommended. PMID:22032472

  5. Comparison of ELISA and LC-MS/MS for the measurement of flunixin plasma concentrations in beef cattle after intravenous and subcutaneous administration

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Eight cattle (288 +/- 22 kg) were treated with 2.2 mg/kg of flunixin in a cross-over design using subcutaneous (SC) and intravenous (IV) administration. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.42 ng/mL and the working range was 0.76 - 66.4 ng/mL for ELISA when adjusted for dilution. The linear calibrat...

  6. Stability of ceftiofur sodium and cefquinome sulphate in intravenous solutions.

    PubMed

    Dołhań, Agnieszka; Jelińska, Anna; Bębenek, Marcelina

    2014-01-01

    Stability of ceftiofur sodium and cefquinome sulphate in intravenous solutions was studied. Chromatographic separation and quantitative determination were performed by using a high-performance liquid chromatography with UV-DAD detection. During the stability study, poly(vinylchloride) minibags were filled with a solution containing 5 mg of ceftiofur sodium or cefquinome sulphate and diluted to 0.2 mg/mL with suitable intravenous solution depending on the test conditions. The solutions for the study were protected from light and stored at room temperature (22°C), refrigerated (6°C), frozen (-20°C) for 30 days, and then thawed at room temperature. A comparison of results obtained at 22°C and 6°C for the same intravenous solutions showed that temperature as well as components of solutions and their concentration had an influence on the stability of ceftiofur sodium and cefquinome sulphate. It was found that ceftiofur sodium and cefquinome sulphate dissolved in intravenous solutions used in this study may be stored at room temperature and at 6°C for up to 48 h.

  7. Safe extensive tumescent liposuction with segmental infiltration of lower concentration lidocaine under monitored anesthesia care.

    PubMed

    Wang, Gang; Cao, Wei-Gang; Li, Sheng-Li; Liu, Li-Na; Jiang, Zhao-Hua

    2015-01-01

    Tumescent anesthesia makes it feasible to perform liposuction in an office setting. There are often patients who desire extensive liposuction on approximately 30% of total body surface area, which means the lidocaine total dose might be over the dosing recommendation. So the segmental infiltration is applied, although the concentration of lidocaine in tumescent fluid is gradually reduced to 0.0252%. Moreover, supplemental intravenous (IV) sedation using monitored anesthesia care is usually applied concurrently to help alleviate discomfort and pain of the patients during tumescent anesthetic infusion and fat extraction which in turn increases the risks of potential lidocaine toxicity due to possible drug interactions. This study was to demonstrate the safety of segmental infiltration of tumescent fluid with lower lidocaine concentration combined with IV sedation in extensive liposuction and determine whether the risk of lidocaine toxicity is increased in this protocol. Ten female patients who requested the extensive liposuction participated in the study. The targeted areas were divided into 2 segments and treated in turn in 1 session. Lidocaine (1600 mg) was infiltrated into the first segment, and approximately 928 mg lidocaine was subsequently infiltrated after accomplishment of the first segment operation. Serum levels of lidocaine were taken every 4 hours during the first 24 hours after the second infiltration. The average time of the procedure is 222 (33) minutes. The dose and total amount of lidocaine injected are 40.7 (5.8) mg/kg and 2528.2 (155.2) mg, respectively. The total volume of the infusates and aspirates are 9918.1 (494) and 6325 (1461.6) mL, respectively, the ratio of total infusates to total aspirates is 1.66 (0.45). The total aspirated fat and fluids are 3280 (1051.8) and 3045 (824.1) mL, respectively. The peak lidocaine levels [2.18 (0.63) μg/mL] occurred after 12 to 20 hours [16.4 (2.27) hours]. No significant correlation between dose per kilogram body weight or total dose of lidocaine infiltrated and its peak levels or time existed. The extensive liposuction covering the 30% total body surface areas was well tolerated by the patients under tumescent anesthesia in combination with the supplemental IV sedation. Our previous study on the fluid management has demonstrated the risk of hypovolemia or fluid overload is very low with this technique, although the patients who received only maintenance fluid (500 mL) in the operating room and could discharge and resume oral intake after 6 hours of recovery room stay. The adequate anesthesia support is available in our office-based setting with adequate recovery facilities in place. It has a high margin of safety, without increasing of lidocaine toxicity or adverse cardiopulmonary sequelae while using a segmental tumescent infiltration with lower concentration of lidocaine.

  8. The atopic dog: a model for food allergy.

    PubMed

    Ermel, R W; Kock, M; Griffey, S M; Reinhart, G A; Frick, O L

    1997-02-01

    The renewed interest in food allergy and its investigation has been hampered by the lack of an appropriate animal model with similar comparative aspects of form and function relative to humans. Therefore we have been characterizing an inbred colony of high immunoglobulin E-producing dogs that were immunized subcutaneously with food antigen extracts in alum and that developed clinical manifestations of food allergy after oral challenges with food antigen. These dogs had appreciably high IgE antibody titer to specific food antigens, as measured by an enzyme-labeled immunodot assay. Skin test results for the food antigens were consistently positive, as evidenced by a wheal-and-flare reaction. Gastroscopic food sensitivity was tested through an endoscope by injecting allergenic food extracts into the gastric mucosa after intravenous injection of Evans blue dye. Mucosal changes included swelling and erythema, some petechiae and blue patching, and in some instances generalized gastric erythema and hyperperistalsis. Examination of immediate-reaction biopsy specimens revealed edema and few inflammatory cells. Examination of late-reaction biopsy specimens revealed increased eosinophil and mononuclear cell infiltrations typical of late-phase allergic inflammatory responses. Direct mucosal challenge with food extracts confirmed the clinical and immunologic evidence of food allergy in these immunized dogs and suggests the usefulness of the atopic dog as a model for food allergy. This model might also be useful in detecting hidden food allergies in unexplained inflammatory gastrointestinal tract diseases.

  9. Immunotherapeutic Potential of Oncolytic H-1 Parvovirus: Hints of Glioblastoma Microenvironment Conversion towards Immunogenicity.

    PubMed

    Angelova, Assia L; Barf, Milena; Geletneky, Karsten; Unterberg, Andreas; Rommelaere, Jean

    2017-12-15

    Glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive primary brain tumors, is characterized by highly immunosuppressive microenvironment. This contributes to glioblastoma resistance to standard treatment modalities and allows tumor growth and recurrence. Several immune-targeted approaches have been recently developed and are currently under preclinical and clinical investigation. Oncolytic viruses, including the autonomous protoparvovirus H-1 (H-1PV), show great promise as novel immunotherapeutic tools. In a first phase I/IIa clinical trial (ParvOryx01), H-1PV was safe and well tolerated when locally or systemically administered to recurrent glioblastoma patients. The virus was able to cross the blood-brain (tumor) barrier after intravenous infusion. Importantly, H-1PV treatment of glioblastoma patients was associated with immunogenic changes in the tumor microenvironment. Tumor infiltration with activated cytotoxic T cells, induction of cathepsin B and inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) expression in tumor-associated microglia/macrophages (TAM), and accumulation of activated TAM in cluster of differentiation (CD) 40 ligand (CD40L)-positive glioblastoma regions was detected. These are the first-in-human observations of H-1PV capacity to switch the immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment towards immunogenicity. Based on this pilot study, we present a tentative model of H-1PV-mediated modulation of glioblastoma microenvironment and propose a combinatorial therapeutic approach taking advantage of H-1PV-induced microglia/macrophage activation for further (pre)clinical testing.

  10. External and internal resin infiltration of natural proximal subsurface caries lesions: A valuable enhancement of the internal tunnel restoration.

    PubMed

    Kielbassa, Andrej M; Ulrich, Ina; Werth, Vanessa D; Schüller, Christoph; Frank, Wilhelm; Schmidl, Rita

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this ex-vivo study was to evaluate both the external and the internal penetration ability of a resin infiltrant into natural proximal and macroscopically intact white spot lesions, and to merge this approach with the internal tunnel preparation concept. 20 premolars and 20 molars with proximal subsurface lesions (ICDAS, code 2) and respective radiographic lesion depths extending into the middle third of dentin (D2 lesions) were selected and divided into two groups. Treatment needs were confirmed using digital imaging fiber-optic transillumination and laser fluorescence. Deproteinization (NaOCl; 2%) followed, and lesions of Group 1 (control; n = 20) were etched (HCl; 15%) and externally infiltrated (Icon). Accordingly, the specimens of Group 2 (n = 20) were treated with the resin infiltrant from external; then, internal Class I tunnels were prepared, lesions were internally infiltrated (Icon), and the occlusal cavities were restored (G-ænial Flo X) after etching (H3PO4 gel; 40%). Teeth were cut perpendicular to the proximal lesion surfaces, and percentage infiltrations were analyzed using confocal laser microscopy and a dedicated image manipulation program (GIMP). Regarding the external infiltration, no differences between both groups were detected (P = .114; Mann-Whitney). Additional internal application of the resin infiltrant significantly increased the percentage amount of enamel lesion infiltration (P < .0001; Wilcoxon). External and internal infiltration seem to complement the internal tunnel approach, thus remediating the drawbacks of the latter by occluding and stabilizing the porous areas of the proximal caries lesion, and preserving both the marginal ridge and the proximal contact area.

  11. Artificial recharge of groundwater through sprinkling infiltration: impacts on forest soil and the nutrient status and growth of Scots pine.

    PubMed

    Nöjd, Pekka; Lindroos, Antti-Jussi; Smolander, Aino; Derome, John; Lumme, Ilari; Helmisaari, Heljä-Sisko

    2009-05-01

    We studied the chemical changes in forest soil and the effects on Scots pine trees caused by continuous sprinkling infiltration over a period of two years, followed by a recovery period of two years. Infiltration increased the water input onto the forest soil by a factor of approximately 1000. After one year of infiltration, the pH of the organic layer had risen from about 4.0 to 6.7. The NH(4)-N concentration in the organic layer increased, most probably due to the NH(4) ions in the infiltration water, as the net N mineralization rate did not increase. Sprinkling infiltration initiated nitrification in the mineral soil. Macronutrient concentrations generally increased in the organic layer and mineral soil. An exception, however, was the concentration of extractable phosphorus, which decreased strongly during the infiltration period and did not show a recovery within two years. The NO(3)-N and K concentrations had reverted back to their initial level during the two-year recovery period, while the concentrations of Ca, Mg and NH(4)-N were still elevated. Nutrient concentrations in the pine needles increased on the infiltrated plots. However, the needle P concentration increased, despite the decrease in plant-available P in the soil. Despite the increase in the nutrient status, there were some visible signs of chlorosis in the current-year needles after two years of infiltration. The radial growth of the pines more than doubled on the infiltrated plots, which suggests that the very large increase in the water input onto the forest floor had no adverse effect on the functioning of the trees. However, a monitoring period of four years is not sufficient for detecting potential long term detrimental effects on forest trees.

  12. [Neoretinal antigen expression: a comparison of anatomical and clinical features of a murine uveoretinitis model].

    PubMed

    Terrada, C; Pâques, M; Fisson, S; De Kozak, Y; Klatzmann, D; Salomon, B; LeHoang, P; Bodaghi, B

    2008-02-01

    Uveitis is an inflammation involving the retina. The antigens targeted by the experimental models are located in the pigmentary epithelium-photoreceptor complex. To gain insights into the variations in topographic expression of the antigen in the retina, we studied a new mouse model. and methods: Stable retinal expression of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) was obtained after intravitreal or subretinal injection of recombinant adeno-associated virus carrying HA (AAV-HA). One month later, we transferred HA-specific T cells, followed by a subcutaneous immunization of the cognate antigen emulsified in CFA. The animals were clinically examined with a slit lamp biomicroscope. Infiltration of donor cells was detected by immunostaining on retina flatmounts with anti-Thy-1.1 antibody, and infiltrating cells were studied using FACS analysis. Whatever the location of the HA expression, intraocular inflammation was clinically and histologically detected in all animals, between 10 and 15 days after immunization with HA. Lesions were identified with histopathological analysis. The ocular infiltrate was mostly composed of macrophages and HA-specific T cells in different proportions. The topographic variations of targeted ocular antigens do not seem to modify the development of inflammatory reactions in our model. By targeting different antigen-presenting cells, ocular infiltrating cells are different.

  13. Organism Detection in Permeable Pavement Parking Lot Infiltrates at the Edison Environmental Center, New Jersey.

    PubMed

    Selvakumar, Ariamalar; O'Connor, Thomas P

    2018-01-01

      Three types of permeable pavements were monitored at the Edison Environmental Center in Edison, New Jersey, for indicator organisms such as fecal coliform, enterococci, and Escherichia coli. Results showed that porous asphalt had a much lower concentration in monitored infiltrate compared to pervious concrete and permeable interlocking concrete pavers; concentrations of monitored organisms in infiltrate from porous asphalt were consistently below the bathing water quality standard and actually had limited detection. Fecal coliform and enterococci exceeded bathing water quality standards more than 72 and 34% of the time for permeable interlocking concrete pavers and pervious concrete, respectively. Concentration reductions greater than 90% were observed for all three indicator organisms for porous asphalt and fecal coliform and E. coli for pervious concrete when compared to runoff values, while permeable interlocking concrete pavers only had a modest (39%) observable reduction for E. coli only. The near absence of indicator organisms observed in the porous asphalt infiltrate may be due to the high pH potentially due to asphalt processing. Neither rain intensity nor temperature was demonstrated to have an observable effect in both concentrations of organisms and performance of permeable pavement; but this may due to the limitations of the dataset consisting of 16 events over an 8-month period.

  14. PET/CT versus bone marrow biopsy in the initial evaluation of bone marrow infiltration in various pediatric malignancies.

    PubMed

    Zapata, Claudia P; Cuglievan, Branko; Zapata, Catalina M; Olavarrieta, Raquel; Raskin, Scott; Desai, Kavita; De Angulo, Guillermo

    2018-02-01

    Accurate staging is essential in the prognosis and management of pediatric malignancies. Current protocols require screening for marrow infiltration with bone marrow biopsy (BMB) as the gold standard. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) is commonly used to complete the staging process and can also be used to evaluate marrow infiltration. To compare PET-CT and BMB in the initial evaluation of bone marrow infiltration in pediatric cancers. We retrospectively reviewed new cases of EWS, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, and lymphoma diagnosed between January 2009 and October 2014. Each case had undergone both PET-CT and BMB within 4 weeks without treatment in the interval between screening modalities. We reviewed 69 cases. Bone marrow infiltration was demonstrated in 34 cases by PET-CT and in 18 cases by BMB. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of PET-CT were both 100%. Interestingly, the cases in which infiltration was not detected on BMB had an abnormal marrow signal on PET-CT focal or distant to iliac crest. PET-CT has a high sensitivity when assessing marrow infiltration in pediatric malignancies. Advances in radiologic modalities may obviate the use of invasive, painful, and costly procedures like BMB. Furthermore, biopsy results are limited by insufficient tissue or the degree of marrow infiltration (diffuse vs. focal disease). PET-CT can improve the precision of biopsy when used as a guiding tool. This study proposes the use of PET-CT as first-line screening for bone marrow infiltration to improve the accuracy of staging in new diagnoses. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Successful treatment of IgM paraproteinaemic neuropathy with fludarabine

    PubMed Central

    Wilson, H.; Lunn, M.; Schey, S.; Hughes, R

    1999-01-01

    OBJECTIVES—To evaluate the response of four patients with IgM paraproteinaemic neuropathy to a novel therapy—pulsed intravenous fludarabine.
BACKGROUND—The peripheral neuropathy associated with IgM paraproteinaemia usually runs a chronic, slowly progressive course which may eventually cause severe disability. Treatment with conventional immunosuppressive regimens has been unsatisfactory. Fludarabine is a novel purine analogue which has recently been shown to be effective in low grade lymphoid malignancies.
METHODS—Four patients were treated with IgM paraproteinaemic neuropathy with intravenous pulses of fludarabine. Two of the four patients had antibodies to MAG and characteristic widely spaced myelin on nerve biopsy and a third had characteristic widely spaced myelin only. The fourth had an endoneurial lymphocytic infiltrate on nerve biopsy and a diagnosis of Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia.
RESULTS—In all cases subjective and objective clinical improvement occurred associated with a significant fall in the IgM paraprotein concentration in three cases. Neurophysiological parameters improved in the three patients examined. The treatment was well tolerated. All patients developed mild, reversible lymphopenia and 50% mild generalised myelosuppression, but there were no febrile episodes.
CONCLUSION—Fludarabine should be considered as a possible treatment for patients with IgM MGUS paraproteinaemic neuropathy.

 PMID:10209166

  16. Baicalein attenuates vinorelbine-induced vascular endothelial cell injury and chemotherapeutic phlebitis in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Ge, Gang-Feng; Shi, Wei-Wen; Yu, Chen-Huan; Jin, Xiao-Yin; Zhang, Huan-Huan; Zhang, Wen-You; Wang, Lu-Chen; Yu, Bing

    2017-03-01

    Chemotherapy is one of the major strategies for cancer treatment. Several antineoplastic drugs including vinorelbine (VRB) are commonly intravenously infused and liable to cause serious phlebitis. The therapeutic drugs for preventing this complication are limited. In this study, the mechanism of baicalein (BCN) was investigated on VRB-induced phlebitis in vivo and vascular endothelial cell injury in vitro. Treatment with BCN obviously attenuated vascular endothelial cell loss, edema, inflammatory cell infiltration and blood clots, and reduced the serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and ICAM-1 in the rabbit model of phlebitis induced by intravenous injection of VRB compared with vehicle. Further tests in vitro demonstrated that BCN lessened VRB-induced endothelial cell apoptosis, decreased intracellular ROS levels, suppressed phosphorylation of p38 and eventually inhibited activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. And these effects could be reversed by p38 agonist P79350. These results suggested that BCN exerted the protective effects against VRB-induced endothelial disruption in the rabbit model of phlebitis via inhibition of intracellular ROS generation and inactivation of p38/NF-κB pathway, leading to the decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, BCN could be used as a potential agent for the treatment of phlebitis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. The effect of cyclodextrin-solubilized curcuminoids on amyloid plaques in Alzheimer transgenic mice: brain uptake and metabolism after intravenous and subcutaneous injection

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Introduction Curcuminoids may improve pathological conditions associated with Alzheimer's disease. However, their therapeutic potential is limited by their exceedingly low bioavailability after oral administration. A method to deliver solubilized curcuminoids by injection was evaluated in Alzheimer transgenic mice. Methods Amyloid protein precursor (APP)SWE, PS1dE9 mice were intravenously or subcutaneously injected at weekly intervals between the ages of 4 and 12 months with serum- or cyclodextrin-solubilized curcuminoids to assess their potential for plaque prevention. Alternatively, mice between the ages of 11 and 12 months were intravenously injected with cyclodextrin-solubilized curcuminoids at biweekly intervals to evaluate their ability to eliminate existing plaques. Plasma and brain levels of curcuminoids and their metabolites were also determined after subcutaneous and intravenous injection. Results Weekly long-term injections did not result in a significant plaque load reduction. However, intravenous injection of cyclodextrin-solubilized curcuminoids at higher curcuminoid concentrations and at a biweekly frequency between the ages of 11 and 12 months reduced the plaque load to approximately 70% of the control value. After intravenous injection, plasma levels of 100 μM curcuminoids and brain levels of 47 nmol/g could initially be achieved that declined to essentially undetectable levels within 20 minutes. The primary curcuminoid metabolites in plasma were the conjugates of glucuronide or sulfate and hexahydrocurcuminoids as reduction products. In the brain, both hexahydrocurcuminoids and octahydrocurcuminoids were detected as major metabolites. After subcutaneous injection, maximal curcuminoid plasma levels of 23 μM and brain levels of 8 nmol/g were observed at 30 minutes after injection and curcuminoids remained detectable for 2 to 3 h. Conclusion Curcuminoids are rapidly metabolized after injection and their effect on reducing plaque load associated with Alzheimer's disease may be dependent on the frequency of administration. PMID:23537472

  18. The cardioprotection granted by metoprolol is restricted to its administration prior to coronary reperfusion

    PubMed Central

    Ibanez, Borja; Cimmino, Giovanni; Prat-González, Susanna; Vilahur, Gemma; Hutter, Randolph; García, Mario J.; Fuster, Valentin; Sanz, Javier; Badimon, Lina; Badimon, Juan J.

    2013-01-01

    Background Myocardial infarct size is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events. Intravenous metoprolol before coronary reperfusion has been shown to reduce infarct size; however, it is unknown whether oral metoprolol initiated early after reperfusion, as clinical guidelines recommend, is similarly cardioprotective. We compared the extent of myocardial salvage associated with intravenous pre-reperfusion-metoprolol administration in comparison with oral post-reperfusion-metoprolol or placebo. We also studied the effect on suspected markers of reperfusion injury. Methods Thirty Yorkshire-pigs underwent a reperfused myocardial infarction, being randomized to pre-reperfusion-metoprolol, post-reperfusion-metoprolol or placebo. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed in eighteen pigs at day 3 for the quantification of salvaged myocardium. The amounts of at-risk and infarcted myocardium were quantified using T2-weighted and post-contrast delayed enhancement imaging, respectively. Twelve animals were sacrificed after 24 h for reperfusion injury analysis. Results The pre-reperfusion-metoprolol group had significantly larger salvaged myocardium than the post-reperfusion-metoprolol or the placebo groups (31±4%, 13±6%, and 7±3% of myocardium at-risk respectively). Post-mortem analyses suggest lesser myocardial reperfusion injury in the pre-reperfusion-metoprolol in comparison with the other 2 groups (lower neutrophil infiltration, decreased myocardial apoptosis, and higher activation of the salvage-kinase phospho-Akt). Salvaged myocardium and reperfusion injury pair wise comparisons proved there were significant differences between the pre-reperfusion-metoprolol and the other 2 groups, but not among the latter two. Conclusions The intravenous administration of metoprolol before coronary reperfusion results in larger myocardial salvage than its oral administration initiated early after reperfusion. If confirmed in the clinical setting, the timing and route of β-blocker initiation could be revisited. PMID:19913314

  19. A simple diagnostic test to confirm correct intravascular placement of peripheral catheters in order to avoid extravasation.

    PubMed

    Keidan, Ilan; Sidi, Avner; Ben-Menachem, Erez; Derazne, Estela; Berkenstadt, Haim

    2015-11-01

    Intravenous catheters are ubiquitous among modern medical management of patients, yet misplaced or tissued cannulas can result in serious iatrogenic injury due to infiltration or extravasation of injectate. Prevention is difficult, and currently few reliable tests exist to confirm intravascular placement of catheters in awake spontaneously breathing patients. Twenty conscious spontaneously breathing healthy volunteers were injected with 50 mL normal saline and 50 mL 4.2%, or 50 mL 2.1%, or 20 mL 4.2% sodium bicarbonate in a random order. A blinded anesthetist observed continuous sampling of exhaled carbon dioxide and was asked to differentiate between the sodium bicarbonate and saline injections. Peak increase in measured exhaled carbon dioxide was also calculated. Exhaled carbon dioxide increased significantly in participants injected with intravenous sodium bicarbonate. Mean peak increase was 7.4 mm Hg (±2.1 mm Hg) for 50 mL 4.2% sodium bicarbonate, 4.7 mm Hg (±2.5 mm Hg) for 20 mL 4.2% sodium bicarbonate, and 3.5 mm Hg (±1. 8 mm Hg) for 50 mL 2.1% sodium bicarbonate. The blinded observer correctly identified the injection as sodium bicarbonate or normal saline in every instance. Intravenous injection of dilute sodium bicarbonate with exhaled carbon dioxide monitoring reliably confirms correct intravascular placement of a catheter. A transient increase of exhaled carbon dioxide by 10% or more is an objective and reliable confirmation of intravascular location of the catheter. We recommend using 20 mL of 4.2% sodium bicarbonate to minimize the mEq dose of sodium bicarbonate required. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Inhibition of Ultraviolet B-Induced Expression of the Proinflammatory Cytokines TNF-α and VEGF in the Cornea by Fucoxanthin Treatment in a Rat Model.

    PubMed

    Chen, Shiu-Jau; Lee, Ching-Ju; Lin, Tzer-Bin; Liu, Hsiang-Jui; Huang, Shuan-Yu; Chen, Jia-Zeng; Tseng, Kuang-Wen

    2016-01-07

    Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation is the most common cause of radiation damage to the eyeball and is a risk factor for human corneal damage. We determined the protective effect of fucoxanthin, which is a carotenoid found in common edible seaweed, on ocular tissues against oxidative UVB-induced corneal injury. The experimental rats were intravenously injected with fucoxanthin at doses of 0.5, 5 mg/kg body weight/day or with a vehicle before UVB irradiation. Lissamine green for corneal surface staining showed that UVB irradiation caused serious damage on the corneal surface, including severe epithelial exfoliation and deteriorated epithelial smoothness. Histopathological lesion examination revealed that levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), significantly increased. However, pretreatment with fucoxanthin inhibited UVB radiation-induced corneal disorders including evident preservation of corneal surface smoothness, downregulation of proinflammatory cytokine expression, and decrease of infiltrated polymorphonuclear leukocytes from UVB-induced damage. Moreover, significant preservation of the epithelial integrity and inhibition of stromal swelling were also observed after UVB irradiation in fucoxanthin-treated groups. Pretreatment with fucoxanthin may protect against UVB radiation-induced corneal disorders by inhibiting expression of proinflammatory factors, TNF-α, and VEGF and by blocking polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration.

  1. [Infiltration of tumor associated macrophages in multiple myeloma and its clinical significance].

    PubMed

    Gui, Q L; Wang, Y S; Huang, S; Wan, Y; Wang, H P; Zhu, Z G; Li, M M; Zhu, H Y; Tao, Q S; Shen, Y Y; Zhang, Q; Qin, H

    2018-02-14

    Objective: To investigate the clinical significance of tumor associated macrophages (TAM) in multiple myeloma (MM) and the relationship with angiogenesis and immunosuppression. Methods: Seventy cases of MM patients diagnosed from August 2015 to June 2017 were enrolled in the study as experimental group, 20 cases of benign hematological diseases (13 with iron deficiency anemia and 7 with megaloblastic anemia) patients as control group. Immunohistochemical method was used to detect the expression of CD163, CD34 and VEGF in bone marrow samples, and flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of regulatory T cell (Treg cells), ELISA was used to detect the level of IL-10, and the clinical features were analyzed. Results: ①Among the 70 patients, there were 31 males and 39 females with a median age of 65 (50~78) years old. TAM infiltration density, microvascular density (MVD), VEGF expression level, Treg ratio and IL-10 level in bone marrow samples of 70 MM patients were significantly higher than those of benign hematological diseases ( P <0.05). ②In the MM group, the above indexes of the patients with disease stabilized (15 cases) were lower than those of the newly diagnosed group (35 cases) and the relapse refractory group (20 cases) ( P <0.05), those of relapse refractory group were higher than those of newly diagnosed group ( P >0.05). ③Of the 35 newly diagnosed MM patients, 27 completed 4 courses of treatment. In the effective group (15 cases), the TAM infiltration density after treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment, the difference was statistically significant[(20.20±7.66) vs (28.87±11.97), t =2.362, P =0.025]; while in the ineffective group of 12 cases, the difference of the TAM infiltration density before and after treatment was not statistically significant[(42.00±13.76) vs (48.25±13.59), t =1.119, P =0.275]. ④TAM infiltration density in the effective group after bortezomib treatment (21 cases) were lower than those in the non-bortezomib treatment group (18 cases)[(16.52 ±4.26) vs (19.27 ±5.82), t =1.662, P =0.170]. ⑤The TAM infiltration density in MM patients was positively correlated with MVD, VEGF expression level, Treg cell ratio and IL-10 level ( P <0.001). Conclusion: The infiltration of TAM in the microenvironment of MM, which may promoting angiogenesis and inhibiting immune response, is related to the occurrence, development, therapeutic effect and drug resistance of MM.

  2. Sigmoid sinus occlusion infiltrated by inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor from mastoid.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jingye; Sun, Zhongwu; Zhuo, Shengxia; Wang, Kai

    2015-01-01

    Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) and some types of immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease are often involved in the spectrum of inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) and the concept of IgG4-related IPT/IMT has recently been proposed. A 38-year-old man complained of initial symptoms of blurred vision and headache. A tumor was found in the right mastoid, which caused occlusion of the right sigmoid sinus and intracranial hypertension. A diagnosis of IMT with IgG4+ plasma cell infiltration was established by surgical, pathological, and immunohistochemistry findings. His symptoms were completely relieved after corticosteroid therapy and no recurrence was detected during 22 months of follow-up. A case with cerebral venous sinus infiltrated by IMTs in the head and neck has never been reported; corticosteroid therapy proved satisfactory in IMT with IgG4+ plasma cell infiltration. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  3. Articaine: a review of its use for local and regional anesthesia

    PubMed Central

    Snoeck, Marc

    2012-01-01

    Articaine is an intermediate-potency, short-acting amide local anesthetic with a fast metabolism due to an ester group in its structure. It is effective with local infiltration or peripheral nerve block in dentistry, when administered as a spinal, epidural, ocular, or regional nerve block, or when injected intravenously for regional anesthesia. In comparative trials, its clinical effects were not generally significantly different from those of other short-acting local anesthetics like lidocaine, prilocaine, and chloroprocaine, and there is no conclusive evidence demonstrating above-average neurotoxicity. Articaine proved to be suitable and safe for procedures requiring a short duration of action in which a fast onset of anesthesia is desired, eg, dental procedures and ambulatory spinal anesthesia, in normal and in special populations. PMID:22915899

  4. Studies on Infectious Mononucleosis

    PubMed Central

    Joncas, J.; Lussier, G.; Pavilanis, V.

    1966-01-01

    Heparinized blood specimens obtained from two patients in the acute phase of infectious mononucleosis and from a healthy technician were injected intravenously into rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) and the animals were observed for three weeks to one month for clinical, hematological and serological signs of infectious mononucleosis. Splenomegaly was the only definite clinical finding after 12 and 16 days, respectively. There were no definite hematological changes. At autopsy, hyperplasia of the germinal centres of lymphoid follicles, occasional foci of lymphocytic infiltration in the red pulp, and abnormal lymphoid cells in venules or arteries of the spleen were noted. The lesions in the spleen suggest that asymptomatic, presumably viral, infections occur in rhesus monkeys after inoculation with material from patients with infectious mononucleosis. ImagesFig. 1Fig. 2Fig. 3Fig. 4Fig. 5Fig. 6Fig. 7 PMID:4957314

  5. Treatment of tissue extravasation by antitumor agents.

    PubMed

    Larson, D L

    1982-05-01

    Infiltration of antitumor agents into subcutaneous tissues may either result in a local area of self-resolving inflammation, or progress to full-thickness loss of skin and underlying vital structures. The immediate treatment of 50 extravasations occurring over a 20-month period resulted in our developing a protocol of appropriate care. Once extravasation is suspected, the intravenous line is removed, ice is applied intermittently for three days, and the wound is observed closely. No drugs are even given locally. If local pain persists or skin changes progress, the area of involvement is debrided and, a skin graft is applied two to three days later. As a result of this conservative approach, only 12 of 50 patients have required surgery. This method of treatment has minimized patient mortality, hospitalizations, and loss of synchronization of chemotherapy.

  6. A novel method for the quantification of fatty infiltration in skeletal muscle.

    PubMed

    Biltz, Nicole K; Meyer, Gretchen A

    2017-01-10

    Fatty infiltration of the skeletal muscle is a common but poorly understood feature of many myopathies. It is best described in human muscle, where non-invasive imaging techniques and representative histology have been optimized to view and quantify infiltrating fat. However, human studies are limited in their ability to identify cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating fatty infiltration, a likely prerequisite to developing targeted interventions. As mechanistic investigations move to small animals, studies may benefit from new or adapted imaging tools optimized for high resolution and whole muscle quantification. Here, we describe a novel method to evaluate fatty infiltration, developed for use with mouse muscle. In this methodology, muscle cellular membranes and proteins are removed via decellularization, but fatty infiltrate lipid is spared, trapped in its native distribution in a transparent extracellular matrix construct. This lipid can then be stained with visible or fluorescent dyes and imaged. We present three methods to stain and evaluate lipid in decellularized muscles which can be used individually or combined: (1) qualitative visualization of the amount and 3D spatial distribution of fatty infiltration using visible lipid soluble dye Oil Red O (ORO), (2) quantitative analysis of individual lipid droplet metrics (e.g., volume) via confocal imaging of fluorescent lipid soluble dye boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPY), and (3) quantitative analysis of total lipid content by optical density reading of extracted stained lipid. This methodology was validated by comparing glycerol-induced fatty infiltration between two commonly used mouse strains: 129S1/SvlmJ (129S1) and C57BL/6J (BL/6J). All three methods were able to detect a significant increase in fatty infiltrate volume in the 129S1 muscle compared with that in BL/6J, and methods 1 and 2 additionally described a difference in the distribution of fatty infiltrate, indicating susceptibility to glycerol-induced fatty infiltration is strain-specific. With more mechanistic studies of fatty infiltration moving to small animal models, having an alternative to expensive non-invasive imaging techniques and selective representative histology will be beneficial. In this work, we present a method that can quantify both individual adipocyte lipids and whole muscle total fatty infiltrate lipid.

  7. Metastatic breast cancer presenting as linitis plastica of the stomach.

    PubMed

    Whitty, Lisa A; Crawford, David L; Woodland, Jay H; Patel, Jitendra C; Nattier, Bryce; Thomas, Charles R

    2005-01-01

    Early detection and treatment of breast cancer, leading to longer survival, has revealed the natural history of this disease process. Linitis plastica of the stomach is a potential long-term sequela of metastatic breast cancer. Here we present a case of metastatic breast cancer presenting as linitis plastica, as well as the treatment algorithm for this rare clinical entity. The world literature describes a clear pattern of linitis plastica for metastatic infiltrating lobular breast cancer and a discrete nodular pattern for infiltrating ductal cancer, in regard to metastasis to the stomach. To our knowledge, this is the first case of infiltrating ductal cancer presenting as linitis plastica of the stomach.

  8. Non-contrast MRI diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder.

    PubMed

    Chi, Andrew S; Kim, John; Long, Suzanne S; Morrison, William B; Zoga, Adam C

    To investigate non-contrast MRI findings of clinical adhesive capsulitis. 31 non-contrast, non-arthrographic, shoulder MRIs were evaluated for coracohumeral ligament thickness, rotator interval infiltration, and axillary recess thickening/edema. In detection of adhesive capsulitis, sensitivity is 76.7% and specificity is 53.3% for coracohumeral ligament thickening, sensitivity is 66.7% and specificity is 55.2% for coracohumeral ligament thickening and rotator interval infiltration, and sensitivity is 23.3% and specificity is 86.7% for coracohumeral ligament thickening, rotator interval infiltration, and axillary recess thickening/edema. Adhesive capsulitis can be accurately diagnosed on non-contrast MRI shoulder examinations with appropriate clinical criteria without direct MR arthrography. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Secondary pulmonary syphilis: Case report and review of literature.

    PubMed

    Kassem Youssef, H; Blind, A; Chouta Ngaha, F; Drenou, B; Nojavan, H; Michel, C

    2018-04-01

    Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can affect numerous organs in its secondary or tertiary stages. We describe a case of secondary syphilis with pulmonary involvement and we present a literature review. A 69-year-old male patient was admitted to hospital for dyspnoea and extended papular exanthema with palmoplantar involvement. The serological test for syphilis was positive. Ocular examination showed bilateral papillitis and retinal haemorrhage. Chest radiography revealed an interstitial alveolar infiltrate predominantly in the upper lobes, mild pleural effusion and hilar adenopathy. These infiltrates were slightly hypermetabolic on PET scan suggesting inflammatory or infectious origin. Treatment with intravenous penicillin G was effective on cutaneous, ocular and pulmonary manifestations. Lung involvement in secondary syphilis is poorly known and rarely described. We found 27 cases of pulmonary syphilis reported in English and the main European languages since 1967. Mean age at diagnosis was 46 years with clear male predominance (89%). HIV co-infection was declared in 5 cases. Treponema pallidum was found in 6 patients using PCR on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) (3 patients) or on a lung biopsy (1 patient), immunohistochemistry (IHC) on BAL (1 patient) and Giemsa staining on a pleural fluid sample (1 patient). Chest X-rays may show unilateral or bilateral infiltrates or nodules with or without pleural effusion or hilar adenopathy. Sub-pleural involvement is frequent and penicillin is the treatment of choice. Pulmonary syphilitic involvement should be suspected where pulmonary symptoms or radiological changes occur in secondary syphilis. IHC, special staining or PCR on BAL, pleural fluid or lung tissue are useful for the identification of spirochetes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  10. Immune cell infiltration in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and patient outcome: a retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Schneider, Karolin; Marbaix, Etienne; Bouzin, Caroline; Hamoir, Marc; Mahy, Pierre; Bol, Vanesa; Grégoire, Vincent

    2018-03-01

    Human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence in oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is on the rise. HPV-linked OPSCCs represent a distinct clinical entity with a better treatment response and patient survival compared to tumors not linked to HPV. An emerging role in treatment response has been attributed to immune cell infiltration in human tumors. In this study, we investigated immune cell infiltration in human SCC of the head and neck region and its relation to overall survival after treatment with surgery (with or without radiotherapy) or concomitant chemo (or cetuximab)-radiotherapy. Paraffin-embedded tumor samples of 136 patients with SCC of the larynx, hypopharynx, oral cavity and oropharynx were processed for immunohistochemical detection of CD3 + T-cells, CD8 + cytotoxic T-cells, CD20 + B-cells and CD163 + M2 macrophages within the tumor infiltrated area. Clinico-pathological data were analyzed as a function of tumor location and p16-status. Immune cell infiltration was represented as stained area on the whole tumor infiltrated area, compared for the different tumor locations and correlated to patient survival. Patients with oropharynx tumors expressing significant p16 levels (p16-sg) had a 5-year overall survival of 85% compared to 43% for patients with no significant p16 (p16-ns) expression (HR: 0.3 - 95% CI: 0.1-0.6). Median immune cell infiltration (T- and B-lymphocytes) was significantly elevated in p16-sg oropharyngeal tumors, compared to p16-ns oropharyngeal tumors and to all other head and neck tumor locations. No difference in CD163 + macrophage infiltration was observed across the different patient groups. In the whole population, a high infiltration by CD3 + T-lymphocytes was associated to a significantly (p = .03; HR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.97) better overall survival. Oropharynx cancer with significant p16 expression showed an increased overall survival and elevated T- and B-lymphocyte infiltration, which suggests a prognostic relevance of immune cell infiltration.

  11. Characterization for capillary barriers effects in a sand box test using time-lapsed GPR measurements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuroda, S.; Ishii, N.; Morii, T.

    2017-12-01

    Capillary barriers have been known as the method to protect subsurface regions against infiltration from soil surface. It is caused by essentially heterogeneous structure in permeability or soil physical property and produce non-uniform infiltration process then, in order to estimate the actual situation of the capillary barrier effect, the site-characterization with imaging technique like geophysical prospecting is effective. In this study, we examine the applicability of GPR to characterization for capillary barriers. We built a sand box with 90x340x90cm in which a thin high-permeable gravel layer was embedded as a capillary barrier. We conducted an infiltration test in the sand box using porous tube array for irrigation. It is expected to lead to non-uniform flow of soil water induced by capillary barrier effects. We monitored this process by various types of GPR measurements, including time-lapsed common offset profiling (COP) with multi- frequency antenna and transmission measurements like cross-borehole radar. At first, we conducted GPR common-offset survey. It could show the depth of capillary barrier in sand box. After that we conducted the infiltration test and GPR monitoring for infiltration process. GPR profiles can detect the wetting front and estimate water content change in the soil layer above the capillary barrier. From spatial change in these results we can estimate the effect of capillary barrier and the zone where the break through occur or not. Based on these results, we will discuss the applicability of GPR for monitoring the phenomena around the capillary barrier of soil. At first, we conducted GPR common-offset survey. It could show the depth of capillary barrier in sand box. After that we conducted the infiltration test and GPR monitoring for infiltration process. GPR profiles can detect the wetting front and estimate water content change in the soil layer above the capillary barrier. From spatial change in these results we can estimate the effect of capillary barrier and the zone where the break through occur. Based on these results, we will discuss the applicability of GPR for monitoring the phenomena around the capillary barrier of soil.

  12. Local infiltration of gonyautoxin is safe and effective in treatment of chronic tension-type headache.

    PubMed

    Lattes, K; Venegas, P; Lagos, N; Lagos, M; Pedraza, L; Rodriguez-Navarro, A J; García, C

    2009-04-01

    Gonyautoxin are phycotoxins, whose molecular mechanism of action is a reversible block of the voltage-gated sodium channels at axonal level, impeding nerve impulse propagation. To evaluate clinical efficacy of gonyautoxin in the treatment of patients with chronic tensional-type headache. Open trial from September 2004 to 2005 in Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile. Twenty-seven patients with chronic tension-type headache were locally infiltrated with gonyautoxins (50 micrograms) in ten sites considered as pain trigger points in a fixed infiltration protocol. In each site, a volume of 200 microlitres was injected. EMG recording was performed before and immediately after infiltrations. Main outcome measures are where a significantly drop-off in acute headache pain score occurs and number of days without headache pain. No side effects were detected in the follow-up period. From base line of 2 weeks, 19 patients of 27 (70%) are the successfully responders to the treatment. They showed the remarkable immediate effect after infiltration demonstrated by trapezium EMG recording. Patients reported a fall in pain score 5 minutes post-injection from 5.0 +/- 2.8 to 1.6 +/- 1.6 (mean +/- SD). The responder showed an average of 8.1 +/- 9.9 weeks of headache pain-free, all of them without a second infiltration or use of any additional analgesic medication. The therapeutic properties of gonyautoxin local infiltration in chronic tension-type headache patients are shown to be safe and effective. This report describes a new therapy for chronic tension-type headache involving local infiltrations of gonyautoxins. The immediate headache pain relief effect shown only minutes after toxin infiltrations were the most remarkable feature of this protocol. This is the first gonyautoxins testing report in the treatment of chronic tension-type headache.

  13. Detecting surface runoff location in a small catchment using distributed and simple observation method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dehotin, Judicaël; Breil, Pascal; Braud, Isabelle; de Lavenne, Alban; Lagouy, Mickaël; Sarrazin, Benoît

    2015-06-01

    Surface runoff is one of the hydrological processes involved in floods, pollution transfer, soil erosion and mudslide. Many models allow the simulation and the mapping of surface runoff and erosion hazards. Field observations of this hydrological process are not common although they are crucial to evaluate surface runoff models and to investigate or assess different kinds of hazards linked to this process. In this study, a simple field monitoring network is implemented to assess the relevance of a surface runoff susceptibility mapping method. The network is based on spatially distributed observations (nine different locations in the catchment) of soil water content and rainfall events. These data are analyzed to determine if surface runoff occurs. Two surface runoff mechanisms are considered: surface runoff by saturation of the soil surface horizon and surface runoff by infiltration excess (also called hortonian runoff). The monitoring strategy includes continuous records of soil surface water content and rainfall with a 5 min time step. Soil infiltration capacity time series are calculated using field soil water content and in situ measurements of soil hydraulic conductivity. Comparison of soil infiltration capacity and rainfall intensity time series allows detecting the occurrence of surface runoff by infiltration-excess. Comparison of surface soil water content with saturated water content values allows detecting the occurrence of surface runoff by saturation of the soil surface horizon. Automatic records were complemented with direct field observations of surface runoff in the experimental catchment after each significant rainfall event. The presented observation method allows the identification of fast and short-lived surface runoff processes at a small spatial and temporal resolution in natural conditions. The results also highlight the relationship between surface runoff and factors usually integrated in surface runoff mapping such as topography, rainfall parameters, soil or land cover. This study opens interesting prospects for the use of spatially distributed measurement for surface runoff detection, spatially distributed hydrological models implementation and validation at a reasonable cost.

  14. Treatment of Anemia in Heart Failure: Potential Risks and Benefits of Intravenous Iron Therapy in Cardiovascular Disease

    PubMed Central

    Jelani, Qurat-ul-ain; Katz, Stuart D.

    2010-01-01

    Iron-deficiency anemia is common is patients with heart failure (HF), but the optimum diagnostic tests to detect iron deficiency and the treatment options to replete iron have not been fully characterized. Recent studies in patients with HF indicate that intravenous iron can rapidly replenish iron stores in patients having iron-deficiency anemia, with resultant increased hemoglobin levels and improved functional capacity. Preliminary data from a sub-group analysis also suggests that supplemental intravenous iron therapy can improve functional capacity even in those subjects without anemia. The mechanisms responsible for this observation are not fully characterized, but may be related to beneficial effects of iron supplementation on mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle. The long-term safety of using intravenous iron supplementation in HF populations is not known. Iron is a known pro-oxidant factor that can inhibit nitric oxide signaling and irreversibly injury cells. Increased iron stores are associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction and increased risk of coronary heart disease events. Additional clinical trials are needed to more fully characterize the therapeutic potential and safety of intravenous iron in HF patients. PMID:20699672

  15. Electroporation-delivered transdermal neostigmine in rats: equivalent action to intravenous administration

    PubMed Central

    Berkó, Szilvia; Szűcs, Kálmán F; Balázs, Boglárka; Csányi, Erzsébet; Varju, Gábor; Sztojkov-Ivanov, Anita; Budai-Szűcs, Mária; Bóta, Judit; Gáspár, Róbert

    2016-01-01

    Purpose Transdermal electroporation has become one of the most promising noninvasive methods for drug administration, with greatly increased transport of macromolecules through the skin. The cecal-contracting effects of repeated transdermal electroporation delivery and intravenous administration of neostigmine were compared in anesthetized rats. Methods The cecal contractions were detected with implantable strain gauge sensors, and the plasma levels of neostigmine were followed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results Both intravenously and EP-administered neostigmine (0.2–66.7 μg/kg) increased the cecal contractions in a dose-dependent manner. For both the low doses and the highest dose, the neostigmine plasma concentrations were the same after the two modes of administration, while an insignificantly higher level was observed at a dose of 20 μg/kg after intravenous administration as compared with the electroporation route. The contractile responses did not differ significantly after the two administration routes. Conclusion The results suggest that electroporation-delivered neostigmine elicits action equivalent to that observed after intravenous administration as concerning both time and intensity. Electroporation permits the delivery of even lower doses of water-soluble compounds through the skin, which is very promising for clinical practice. PMID:27274203

  16. Is the era of intravenous proton pump inhibitors coming to an end in patients with bleeding peptic ulcers? Meta-analysis of the published literature.

    PubMed

    Jian, Zhixiang; Li, Hui; Race, Nicholas S; Ma, Tingting; Jin, Haosheng; Yin, Zi

    2016-09-01

    Oral and intravenous proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are equipotent in raising gastric pH. However, it is not known whether oral PPIs can replace intravenous PPIs in patients with bleeding peptic ulcers. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to compare oral and intravenous PPIs among patients with peptic ulcer bleeding. A search of all major databases and relevant journals from inception to April 2015, without a restriction on languages, was performed. A total of 859 patients from seven randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Similar pooled outcome measures were demonstrated between the two groups in terms of oral PPIs vs. intravenous PPIs in the rate of recurrent bleeding within the 30-day follow-up period [risk ratio = 0.90; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58, 1.39; P = 0.62; I(2)  = 0%). In terms of the rate of mortality, both oral and intravenous PPIs showed similar outcomes, and the pooled risk ratio was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.29, 2.71; P = 0.82; I(2)  = 0%). Likewise, no significant difference was detected in the need for blood transfusion and length of hospital stay; the pooled mean differences were -0.14 (95% CI: -0.39, 0.12; P = 0.29; I(2)  = 32%) and -0.60 (95% CI: -1.42, 0.23; P = 0.16; I(2)  = 79%), respectively. Our results suggest that oral PPIs are a feasible, safe alternative to intravenous PPIs in patients with bleeding peptic ulcers, and may be able to replace intravenous PPIs as the treatment of choice in these patients. © 2016 The British Pharmacological Society.

  17. Infiltration of the thyroid gland by T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia.

    PubMed

    Fujiwara, Kazunori; Fukuhara, Takahiro; Kitano, Hiroya; Okazaki, Toshiro

    2014-08-01

    T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is rare, accounting for only 0.06% of all malignant lymphomas, and is classified as a T-cell mature lymphoma. The disease affects mainly elderly patients and is characterized by splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, skin infiltration, and a high leukocyte count, but thyroid filtration has never been detected as far as we could determine. We report here a case of infiltration of the thyroid gland by T-PLL. An 89-year-old woman who had been treated for Hashimoto's thyroiditis for 20 years presented with a progressively enlarging thyroid mass accompanied by dyspnea and dysphasia. Atypical lymphocytes with irregular nuclei were observed in the peripheral blood. An open biopsy of the thyroid provided pathological evidence of T-PLL, and bone marrow examination showed infiltration by T-PLL. The diagnosis was therefore infiltration of the thyroid gland by T-PLL. Chemotherapy was initiated, but six months after termination, recurrence of neck swelling was observed. The patient was then treated with radiotherapy, but she died of a major stroke 15 months after onset. This is the first report of T-PLL infiltration of the thyroid gland, reminding physicians to keep in mind a broad differential diagnosis when encountering a patient with diffuse thyroid lesions and abnormal lymphocytes in the peripheral blood.

  18. Laboratory testing on infiltration in single synthetic fractures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cherubini, Claudia; Pastore, Nicola; Li, Jiawei; Giasi, Concetta I.; Li, Ling

    2017-04-01

    An understanding of infiltration phenomena in unsaturated rock fractures is extremely important in many branches of engineering for numerous reasons. Sectors such as the oil, gas and water industries are regularly interacting with water seepage through rock fractures, yet the understanding of the mechanics and behaviour associated with this sort of flow is still incomplete. An apparatus has been set up to test infiltration in single synthetic fractures in both dry and wet conditions. To simulate the two fracture planes, concrete fractures have been moulded from 3D printed fractures with varying geometrical configurations, in order to analyse the influence of aperture and roughness on infiltration. Water flows through the single fractures by means of a hydraulic system composed by an upstream and a downstream reservoir, the latter being subdivided into five equal sections in order to measure the flow rate in each part to detect zones of preferential flow. The fractures have been set at various angles of inclination to investigate the effect of this parameter on infiltration dynamics. The results obtained identified that altering certain fracture parameters and conditions produces relevant effects on the infiltration process through the fractures. The main variables influencing the formation of preferential flow are: the inclination angle of the fracture, the saturation level of the fracture and the mismatch wavelength of the fracture.

  19. Data-driven analysis of immune infiltrate in a large cohort of breast cancer and its association with disease progression, ER activity, and genomic complexity

    PubMed Central

    Dannenfelser, Ruth; Nome, Marianne; Tahiri, Andliena; Ursini-Siegel, Josie; Vollan, Hans Kristian Moen; Haakensen, Vilde D.; Helland, Åslaug; Naume, Bjørn; Caldas, Carlos; Børresen-Dale, Anne-Lise; Kristensen, Vessela N.; Troyanskaya, Olga G.

    2017-01-01

    The tumor microenvironment is now widely recognized for its role in tumor progression, treatment response, and clinical outcome. The intratumoral immunological landscape, in particular, has been shown to exert both pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic effects. Identifying immunologically active or silent tumors may be an important indication for administration of therapy, and detecting early infiltration patterns may uncover factors that contribute to early risk. Thus far, direct detailed studies of the cell composition of tumor infiltration have been limited; with some studies giving approximate quantifications using immunohistochemistry and other small studies obtaining detailed measurements by isolating cells from excised tumors and sorting them using flow cytometry. Herein we utilize a machine learning based approach to identify lymphocyte markers with which we can quantify the presence of B cells, cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, T-helper 1, and T-helper 2 cells in any gene expression data set and apply it to studies of breast tissue. By leveraging over 2,100 samples from existing large scale studies, we are able to find an inherent cell heterogeneity in clinically characterized immune infiltrates, a strong link between estrogen receptor activity and infiltration in normal and tumor tissues, changes with genomic complexity, and identify characteristic differences in lymphocyte expression among molecular groupings. With our extendable methodology for capturing cell type specific signal we systematically studied immune infiltration in breast cancer, finding an inverse correlation between beneficial lymphocyte infiltration and estrogen receptor activity in normal breast tissue and reduced infiltration in estrogen receptor negative tumors with high genomic complexity. PMID:28915659

  20. Securing All intraVenous devices Effectively in hospitalised patients--the SAVE trial: study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Rickard, Claire M; Marsh, Nicole; Webster, Joan; Playford, E Geoffrey; McGrail, Matthew R; Larsen, Emily; Keogh, Samantha; McMillan, David; Whitty, Jennifer A; Choudhury, Md Abu; Dunster, Kimble R; Reynolds, Heather; Marshall, Andrea; Crilly, Julia; Young, Jeanine; Thom, Ogilvie; Gowardman, John; Corley, Amanda; Fraser, John F

    2015-09-23

    Over 70% of all hospital admissions have a peripheral intravenous device (PIV) inserted; however, the failure rate of PIVs is unacceptably high, with up to 69% of these devices failing before treatment is complete. Failure can be due to dislodgement, phlebitis, occlusion/infiltration and/or infection. This results in interrupted medical therapy; painful phlebitis and reinsertions; increased hospital length of stay, morbidity and mortality from infections; and wasted medical/nursing time. Appropriate PIV dressing and securement may prevent many cases of PIV failure, but little comparative data exist regarding the efficacy of various PIV dressing and securement methods. This trial will investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of 4 methods of PIV dressing and securement in preventing PIV failure. A multicentre, parallel group, superiority randomised controlled trial with 4 arms, 3 experimental groups (tissue adhesive, bordered polyurethane dressing, sutureless securement device) and 1 control (standard polyurethane dressing) is planned. There will be a 3-year recruitment of 1708 adult patients, with allocation concealment until randomisation by a centralised web-based service. The primary outcome is PIV failure which includes any of: dislodgement, occlusion/infiltration, phlebitis and infection. Secondary outcomes include: types of PIV failure, PIV dwell time, costs, device colonisation, skin colonisation, patient and staff satisfaction. Relative incidence rates of device failure per 100 devices and per 1000 device days with 95% CIs will summarise the impact of each dressing, and test differences between groups. Kaplan-Meier survival curves (with log-rank Mantel-Cox test) will compare device failure over time. p Values of <0.05 will be considered significant. Secondary end points will be compared between groups using parametric or non-parametric techniques appropriate to level of measurement. Ethical approval has been received from Queensland Health (HREC/11/QRCH/152) and Griffith University (NRS/46/11/HREC). Results will be published according to the CONSORT statement and presented at relevant conferences. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN); 12611000769987. 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.

  1. Securing All intraVenous devices Effectively in hospitalised patients—the SAVE trial: study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

    PubMed Central

    Rickard, Claire M; Marsh, Nicole; Webster, Joan; Playford, E Geoffrey; McGrail, Matthew R; Larsen, Emily; Keogh, Samantha; McMillan, David; Whitty, Jennifer A; Choudhury, Md Abu; Dunster, Kimble R; Reynolds, Heather; Marshall, Andrea; Crilly, Julia; Young, Jeanine; Thom, Ogilvie; Gowardman, John; Corley, Amanda; Fraser, John F

    2015-01-01

    Introduction Over 70% of all hospital admissions have a peripheral intravenous device (PIV) inserted; however, the failure rate of PIVs is unacceptably high, with up to 69% of these devices failing before treatment is complete. Failure can be due to dislodgement, phlebitis, occlusion/infiltration and/or infection. This results in interrupted medical therapy; painful phlebitis and reinsertions; increased hospital length of stay, morbidity and mortality from infections; and wasted medical/nursing time. Appropriate PIV dressing and securement may prevent many cases of PIV failure, but little comparative data exist regarding the efficacy of various PIV dressing and securement methods. This trial will investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of 4 methods of PIV dressing and securement in preventing PIV failure. Methods and analysis A multicentre, parallel group, superiority randomised controlled trial with 4 arms, 3 experimental groups (tissue adhesive, bordered polyurethane dressing, sutureless securement device) and 1 control (standard polyurethane dressing) is planned. There will be a 3-year recruitment of 1708 adult patients, with allocation concealment until randomisation by a centralised web-based service. The primary outcome is PIV failure which includes any of: dislodgement, occlusion/infiltration, phlebitis and infection. Secondary outcomes include: types of PIV failure, PIV dwell time, costs, device colonisation, skin colonisation, patient and staff satisfaction. Relative incidence rates of device failure per 100 devices and per 1000 device days with 95% CIs will summarise the impact of each dressing, and test differences between groups. Kaplan-Meier survival curves (with log-rank Mantel-Cox test) will compare device failure over time. p Values of <0.05 will be considered significant. Secondary end points will be compared between groups using parametric or non-parametric techniques appropriate to level of measurement. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval has been received from Queensland Health (HREC/11/QRCH/152) and Griffith University (NRS/46/11/HREC). Results will be published according to the CONSORT statement and presented at relevant conferences. Trial registration number Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN); 12611000769987. PMID:26399574

  2. Effect of preemptive ketamine administration on postoperative visceral pain after gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

    PubMed

    Lin, Hong-Qi; Jia, Dong-Lin

    2016-08-01

    The pain following gynecological laparoscopic surgery is less intense than that following open surgery; however, patients often experience visceral pain after the former surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of preemptive ketamine on visceral pain in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Ninety patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Group 1 received placebo. Group 2 was intravenously injected with preincisional saline and local infiltration with 20 mL ropivacaine (4 mg/mL) at the end of surgery. Group 3 was intravenously injected with preincisional ketamine (0.3 mg/kg) and local infiltration with 20 mL ropivacaine (4 mg/mL) at the end of surgery. A standard anesthetic was used for all patients, and meperidine was used for postoperative analgesia. The visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for incisional and visceral pain at 2, 6, 12, and 24 h, cumulative analgesic consumption and time until first analgesic medication request, and adverse effects were recorded postoperatively. The VAS scores of visceral pain in group 3 were significantly lower than those in group 2 and group 1 at 2 h and 6 h postoperatively (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively). At 2 h and 6 h, the VAS scores of incisional pain did not differ significantly between groups 2 and 3, but they were significantly lower than those in group 1 (P<0.01). Groups 1 and 2 did not show any differences in visceral pain scores at 2 h and 6 h postoperatively. Moreover, the three groups showed no statistically significant differences in visceral and incisional pain scores at 12 h and 24 h postoperatively. The consumption of analgesics was significantly greater in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3, and the time to first request for analgesics was significantly longer in groups 2 and 3 than in group 1, with no statistically significant difference between groups 2 and 3. However, the three groups showed no significant difference in the incidence of shoulder pain or adverse effects. Preemptive ketamine may reduce visceral pain in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery.

  3. Abdominal Incision Injection of Liposomal Bupivacaine and Opioid Use After Laparotomy for Gynecologic Malignancies.

    PubMed

    Kalogera, Eleftheria; Bakkum-Gamez, Jamie N; Weaver, Amy L; Moriarty, James P; Borah, Bijan J; Langstraat, Carrie L; Jankowski, Christopher J; Lovely, Jenna K; Cliby, William A; Dowdy, Sean C

    2016-11-01

    To investigate opioid use and pain scores associated with incisional injection of liposomal bupivacaine compared with bupivacaine hydrochloride after laparotomy for gynecologic malignancies. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare abdominal incision infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine with bupivacaine hydrochloride after modification of a pre-existing enhanced recovery pathway. Patients undergoing staging laparotomy or complex cytoreductive surgery under the updated pathway were compared with patients treated under the original pathway (historic controls). Endpoints included cumulative opioid use (primary outcome) in oral morphine equivalents and cumulative pain score. In the complex cytoreductive cohort, median oral morphine equivalents were lower in the liposomal bupivacaine group through 24 hours (30 compared with 53.5 mg, P=.002), 48 hours (37.5 compared with 82.5 mg, P=.005), and the length of stay (62 compared with 100.5 mg, P=.006). Fewer liposomal bupivacaine patients required intravenous rescue opioids (28.9% compared with 55.6%, P<.001) or patient-controlled analgesia (4.1% compared with 33.3%, P<.001). Cumulative pain score was no different between groups through 48 hours (161 compared with 158, P=.69). Postoperative nausea and ileus were less frequent in patients receiving liposomal bupivacaine. Median hospital stay was 5 days in both groups. In the staging laparotomy cohort, cumulative opioids and cumulative pain score were no different between groups (through 48 hours: 162 compared with 161, P=.62; 38 compared with 38, P=.68, respectively). Intravenous rescue opioids (15.3% compared with 28.6%, P=.05) and patient-controlled analgesia (1.4% compared with 8.3%, P=.05) were used less frequently in the liposomal bupivacaine group. Median hospital stay was 4 days in both groups. Despite the higher cost of liposomal bupivacaine, total pharmacy costs did not differ between groups. Abdominal incision infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine was associated with less opioid and patient-controlled analgesia use with no change in pain scores compared with bupivacaine hydrochloride after complex cytoreductive surgery for gynecologic malignancies. Improvements were also seen in patients undergoing staging laparotomy.

  4. A lymphocyte spatial distribution graph-based method for automated classification of recurrence risk on lung cancer images

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garciá-Arteaga, Juan D.; Corredor, Germán.; Wang, Xiangxue; Velcheti, Vamsidhar; Madabhushi, Anant; Romero, Eduardo

    2017-11-01

    Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes occurs when various classes of white blood cells migrate from the blood stream towards the tumor, infiltrating it. The presence of TIL is predictive of the response of the patient to therapy. In this paper, we show how the automatic detection of lymphocytes in digital H and E histopathological images and the quantitative evaluation of the global lymphocyte configuration, evaluated through global features extracted from non-parametric graphs, constructed from the lymphocytes' detected positions, can be correlated to the patient's outcome in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The method was assessed on a tissue microarray cohort composed of 63 NSCLC cases. From the evaluated graphs, minimum spanning trees and K-nn showed the highest predictive ability, yielding F1 Scores of 0.75 and 0.72 and accuracies of 0.67 and 0.69, respectively. The predictive power of the proposed methodology indicates that graphs may be used to develop objective measures of the infiltration grade of tumors, which can, in turn, be used by pathologists to improve the decision making and treatment planning processes.

  5. Agroinfiltration: a rapid and reliable method to select suitable rose cultivars for blue flower production.

    PubMed

    Zeinipour, Masoume; Azadi, Pejman; Majd, Ahmad; Kermani, Maryam Jafarkhani; Irian, Saeed; Hosseini, Seyed Mohammad; Mii, Masahiro

    2018-05-01

    Rose cultivars with blue flower color are among the most attractive breeding targets in floriculture. However, they are difficult to produce due to the low efficiency of transformation systems, interactive effects of hosts and vectors, and lengthy processes. In this study, agroinfiltration-mediated transient expression was investigated as a tool to assess the function of flower color genes and to determine appropriate host cultivars for stable transformation in Rosa hybrida . To induce delphinidin accumulation and consequently to produce blue hue, the petals of 30 rose cultivars were infiltrated with three different expression vectors namely pBIH-35S-CcF3'5'H, pBIH-35S-Del2 and pBIH-35S-Del8, harbouring different sets of flower color genes. The results obtained showed that the ectopic expression of the genes was only detected in three cultivars with dark pink petals (i.e. 'Purple power', 'High & Mora' and 'Marina') after 6-8 days. The high performance liquid chromatography analyses confirmed delphinidin accumulation in the infiltrated petals caused by transient expression of CcF3'5'H gene. Moreover, there were significant differences in the amounts of delphinidin among the three cultivars infiltrated with the three different expression vectors. More specifically, the highest delphinidin content was detected in the cultivar 'Purple power' (4.67 µg g -1 FW), infiltrated with the pBIH-35S-Del2 vector. The expression of CcF3'5'H gene in the infiltrated petals was also confirmed by real time PCR. In conclusion and based on the findings of the present study, the agroinfiltration could be regarded as a reliable method to identify suitable rose cultivars in blue rose flower production programs.

  6. Standardized Interpretation of Chest Radiographs in Cases of Pediatric Pneumonia From the PERCH Study.

    PubMed

    Fancourt, Nicholas; Deloria Knoll, Maria; Barger-Kamate, Breanna; de Campo, John; de Campo, Margaret; Diallo, Mahamadou; Ebruke, Bernard E; Feikin, Daniel R; Gleeson, Fergus; Gong, Wenfeng; Hammitt, Laura L; Izadnegahdar, Rasa; Kruatrachue, Anchalee; Madhi, Shabir A; Manduku, Veronica; Matin, Fariha Bushra; Mahomed, Nasreen; Moore, David P; Mwenechanya, Musaku; Nahar, Kamrun; Oluwalana, Claire; Ominde, Micah Silaba; Prosperi, Christine; Sande, Joyce; Suntarattiwong, Piyarat; O'Brien, Katherine L

    2017-06-15

    Chest radiographs (CXRs) are a valuable diagnostic tool in epidemiologic studies of pneumonia. The World Health Organization (WHO) methodology for the interpretation of pediatric CXRs has not been evaluated beyond its intended application as an endpoint measure for bacterial vaccine trials. The Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) study enrolled children aged 1-59 months hospitalized with WHO-defined severe and very severe pneumonia from 7 low- and middle-income countries. An interpretation process categorized each CXR into 1 of 5 conclusions: consolidation, other infiltrate, both consolidation and other infiltrate, normal, or uninterpretable. Two members of a 14-person reading panel, who had undertaken training and standardization in CXR interpretation, interpreted each CXR. Two members of an arbitration panel provided additional independent reviews of CXRs with discordant interpretations at the primary reading, blinded to previous reports. Further discordance was resolved with consensus discussion. A total of 4172 CXRs were obtained from 4232 cases. Observed agreement for detecting consolidation (with or without other infiltrate) between primary readers was 78% (κ = 0.50) and between arbitrators was 84% (κ = 0.61); agreement for primary readers and arbitrators across 5 conclusion categories was 43.5% (κ = 0.25) and 48.5% (κ = 0.32), respectively. Disagreement was most frequent between conclusions of other infiltrate and normal for both the reading panel and the arbitration panel (32% and 30% of discordant CXRs, respectively). Agreement was similar to that of previous evaluations using the WHO methodology for detecting consolidation, but poor for other infiltrates despite attempts at a rigorous standardization process. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

  7. A process to estimate net infiltration using a site-scale water-budget approach, Rainier Mesa, Nevada National Security Site, Nevada, 2002–05

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Smith, David W.; Moreo, Michael T.; Garcia, C. Amanda; Halford, Keith J.; Fenelon, Joseph M.

    2017-08-29

    This report documents a process used to estimate net infiltration from precipitation, evapotranspiration (ET), and soil data acquired at two sites on Rainier Mesa. Rainier Mesa is a groundwater recharge area within the Nevada National Security Site where recharged water flows through bedrock fractures to a deep (450 meters) water table. The U.S. Geological Survey operated two ET stations on Rainier Mesa from 2002 to 2005 at sites characterized by pinyon-juniper and scrub-brush vegetative cover. Precipitation and ET data were corrected to remove measurement biases and gap-filled to develop continuous datasets. Net infiltration (percolation below the root zone) and changes in root-zone water storage were estimated using a monthly water-balance model.Site-scale water-budget results indicate that the heavily-fractured welded-tuff bedrock underlying thin (<40 centimeters) topsoil is a critical water source for vegetation during dry periods. Annual precipitation during the study period ranged from fourth lowest (182 millimeters [mm]) to second highest (708 mm) on record (record = 55 years). Annual ET exceeded precipitation during dry years, indicating that the fractured-bedrock reservoir capacity is sufficient to meet atmospheric-evaporative demands and to sustain vegetation through extended dry periods. Net infiltration (82 mm) was simulated during the wet year after the reservoir was rapidly filled to capacity. These results support previous conclusions that preferential fracture flow was induced, resulting in an episodic recharge pulse that was detected in nearby monitoring wells. The occurrence of net infiltration only during the wet year is consistent with detections of water-level rises in nearby monitoring wells that occur only following wet years.

  8. Fine-needle aspirate cytology suggesting hepatic lipidosis in four cats with infiltrative hepatic disease.

    PubMed

    Willard, M D; Weeks, B R; Johnson, M

    1999-12-01

    Four cats are reported in which cytology smears obtained by ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the liver were interpreted as indicative of hepatic lipidosis. However, histopathology of hepatic tissue samples obtained with Tru-Cut-like needles or wedge biopsy revealed that the cats had inflammatory or neoplastic hepatic disease causing their clinical signs. Fine needle aspiration and cytology may not detect infiltrative lesions, particularly those that are nodular, multifocal, or localised around the portal regions. Fine needle aspirate cytology is a useful diagnostic procedure with many advantages, but care must be taken to avoid diagnosing hepatic lipidosis as the cause of illness when an infiltrative lesion is responsible. Copyright 1999 European Society of Feline Medicine.

  9. The fate and tissue disposition of deoxynivalenol in broiler chickens

    PubMed Central

    PRALATNET, Sasithorn; POAPOLATHEP, Saranya; IMSILP, Kanjana; TANHAN, Phanwimol; ISARIYODOM, Supaporn; KUMAGAI, Susumu; POAPOLATHEP, Amnart

    2015-01-01

    To evaluate the fate of deoxynivalenol (DON) in broilers, DON was administered either intravenously or orally to broilers at a dose of 1 mg/kg BW. Concentrations of DON in plasma were measurable up to 4 hr and 2 hr after intravenous and oral administration, respectively. Following intravenous administration, the values for the elimination half-life, the volume of distribution and the clearance were 1.25 ± 0.25 hr, 7.55 ± 2.03 l/kg and 4.16 ± 0.42 l/hr/kg, respectively. The oral bioavailability was 15.46 ± 4.02%. DON was detectable in all tissues examined after oral administration. These results suggest that DON is able to penetrate into the various tissues in broilers, though poorly absorbed from their gastrointestinal tract. PMID:25843039

  10. Immunohistochemical detection and correlation between MHC antigen and cell-mediated immune system in recurrent glioma by APAAP method.

    PubMed

    Miyagi, K; Ingram, M; Techy, G B; Jacques, D B; Freshwater, D B; Sheldon, H

    1990-09-01

    As part of an on-going clinical trial of immunotherapy for recurrent malignant gliomas, using alkaline phosphatase-anti-alkaline phosphatase method with monoclonal antibodies, we investigated the correlation between expression of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and the subpopulation of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in 38 glioma specimens (20 grade IV, 11 grade III, and 7 grade II) from 33 patients. Thirty specimens (78.9%) were positive to class I MHC antigen and 20 (52.6%) were positive to class II MHC antigen. The correlations between class I MHC antigen expression and the number of infiltrating T8 (p less than 0.01), and also between class II MHC antigen expression and the number of infiltrating T4 (p less than 0.05) were significant. We conclude that TILs are the result of immunoreaction (host-defense mechanism). 31.6% of specimens had perivascular infiltration of T cells. The main infiltrating lymphocyte subset in moderate to marked perivascular cuffing was T4. Our results may indicate that lack of MHC antigen on the glioma cell surface has a share in the poor immunogenicity in glioma-bearing patients. In addition, considering the effector/target ratio, the number of infiltrating lymphocytes against glioma cells was too small, so the immunological intervention seems to be essential in glioma therapy. Previous radiation therapy and chemotherapy, including steroid therapy, did not influence lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration.

  11. Point-of-care detection and real-time monitoring of intravenously delivered drugs via tubing with an integrated SERS sensor.

    PubMed

    Wu, Hsin-Yu; Cunningham, Brian T

    2014-05-21

    We demonstrate an approach for detection, identification, and kinetic monitoring of drugs flowing within tubing, through the use of a plasmonic nanodome array (PNA) surface. The PNA structures are fabricated using a low-cost nanoreplica molding process upon a flexible plastic substrate that is subsequently integrated with a flow cell that connects in series with ordinary intravenous (IV) drug delivery tubing. To investigate the potential clinical applications for point-of-care detection and real-time monitoring, we perform SERS detection of ten pharmaceutical compounds (hydrocodone, levorphanol, morphine, oxycodone, methadone, phenobarbital, dopamine, diltiazem, promethazine, and mitoxantrone). We demonstrate dose-dependent SERS signal magnitude, resulting in detection limits (ng ml(-1)) well below typical administered dosages (mg ml(-1)). Further, we show that the detected drugs are not permanently attached to the PNA surface, and thus our approach is capable of performing continuous monitoring of drug delivery as materials flow through IV tubing that is connected in series with the sensor. Finally, we demonstrate the potential co-detection of multiple drugs when they are mixed together, and show excellent reproducibility and stability of SERS measurements for periods extending at least five days. The capabilities reported here demonstrate the potential to use PNA SERS surfaces for enhancing the safety of IV drug delivery.

  12. Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Versus Wound Infiltration for Analgesia After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Tawfik, Mohamed Mohamed; Mohamed, Yaser Mohamed; Elbadrawi, Rania Elmohamadi; Abdelkhalek, Mostafa; Mogahed, Maiseloon Mostafa; Ezz, Hanaa Mohamed

    2017-04-01

    Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and local anesthetic wound infiltration provide analgesia after cesarean delivery. Studies comparing the 2 techniques are scarce, with conflicting results. This double-blind, randomized controlled trial aimed to compare bilateral ultrasound-guided TAP block with single-shot local anesthetic wound infiltration for analgesia after cesarean delivery performed under spinal anesthesia. We hypothesized that the TAP block would decrease postoperative cumulative fentanyl consumption at 24 hours. Eligible subjects were American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status II parturients with full-term singleton pregnancies undergoing elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Exclusion criteria were: <19 years of age or >40 years of age; height <150 cm, weight <60 kg, body mass index ≥40 kg/m; contraindications to spinal anesthesia; history of recent opioid exposure; hypersensitivity to any of the drugs used in the study; significant cardiovascular, renal, or hepatic disease; and known fetal abnormalities. Eighty subjects were randomly allocated to 2 equal groups. In the infiltration group, participants received 15 mL of bupivacaine 0.25% in each side of the surgical wound (total 30 mL); and in the TAP group, participants received 20 mL of bupivacaine 0.25% bilaterally in the TAP block (total 40 mL). The TAP block and wound infiltration were performed by the primary investigator and the operating obstetrician, respectively. All participants received postoperative standard analgesia (ketorolac and paracetamol) and intravenous fentanyl via patient-controlled analgesia. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded to the study group. The primary outcome was the cumulative fentanyl consumption at 24 hours. Secondary outcomes were the time to the first postoperative fentanyl dose, cumulative fentanyl consumption at 2, 4, 6, and 12 hours, pain scores at rest and on movement at 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours, the deepest level of sedation, the incidence of side effects (nausea and vomiting and pruritis), and patient satisfaction. Data from 78 patients (39 patients in each group) were analyzed. The mean ± SD of cumulative fentanyl consumption at 24 hours was 157.4 ± 63.4 μg in the infiltration group and 153.3 ± 68.3 μg in the TAP group (difference in means [95% confidence interval] is 4.1 [-25.6 to 33.8] μg; P = .8). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in the time to the first postoperative fentanyl dose, cumulative fentanyl consumption at 2, 4, 6, and 12 hours, pain scores at rest and on movement at 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours, the deepest level of sedation, and patient satisfaction. The incidence of side effects (nausea and vomiting and pruritis) was low in the 2 groups. TAP block and wound infiltration did not significantly differ regarding postoperative fentanyl consumption, pain scores, and patient satisfaction in parturients undergoing cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia.

  13. Quinine-induced thrombocytopenia following intravenous use of heroin

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

    Christie, D.J.; Walker, R.H.; Kolins, M.D.

    1983-06-01

    Profound thrombocytopenia developed in a 22-year-old man after intravenous use of heroin. A high-titer, quinine-dependent, platelet-specific antibody was detected in his serum using lysis of normal platelets labeled with chromium 51 and an electroimmunoassay for measurement of platelet-associated IgG. The antibody was specific for quinine and failed to react with platelets in the presence of quinidine hydrochloride or two structural analogues of heroin. Quinine, a common adulterant found in heroin, was detected in the patient's blood and urine. On the basis of these observations, the patient was judged to have quinine-induced immunologic thrombocytopenia. To our knowledge, this report is themore » first to confirm that quinine used as an adulterant can induce immunologic thrombocytopenia following an injection of heroin.« less

  14. Pharmacokinetics, metabolism and urinary detection time of flunixin after intravenous administration in camels.

    PubMed

    Wasfi, I A; Boni, N S; Abdel Hadi, A; Elghazali, M; Zorob, O; Alkatheeri, N A; Barezaiq, I M

    1998-06-01

    The pharmacokinetics of flunixin were determined after an intravenous dose of 1.1 mg/kg body weight in six camels and 2.2 mg/kg body weight in four camels. The data obtained (mean +/- SEM) for the low and high dose, respectively, were as follows: The elimination half-lives (t1/2 beta) were 3.76 +/- 0.24 and 4.08 +/- 0.49 h, the steady state volumes of distribution (Vdss) were 320.61 +/- 38.53 and 348.84 +/- 35.36 mL/kg body weight, total body clearances (ClT) were 88.96 +/- 6.63 and 84.86 +/- 4.95 mL/h/kg body weight and renal clearances (Clr) were 0.52 +/- 0.09 and 0.62 +/- 0.18 mL/h/kg body weight. A hydroxylated metabolite of flunixin was identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) under electron and chemical ionization and its major fragmentation pattern was verified by tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) using neutral loss, daughter and parent scan modes. The detection times for flunixin and its hydroxylated metabolite in urine after an intravenous (i.v.) dose of 2.2 mg/kg body weight were 96 and 48 h, respectively.

  15. Study of the Efficiency of the Hydroporation for Delivery of Plasmid DNA to the Cells on the Model of Toxic Neuropathy.

    PubMed

    Yudin, M A; Bykov, V N; Nikiforov, A S; Al-Shekhadat, R I; Ivanov, I M; Ustinova, T M

    2018-04-01

    We compared the efficiency of delivery of plasmid DNA (active ingredient concentration 1 mg/kg) that provides production of nerve growth factor (NGF) after intravenous administration to rats and after administration by hydroporation. The method of hydroporation ensured plasmid penetration into the liver tissue and lengthened the time of its detection in the organ. DNA concentration in 1 h after its introduction by hydroporation or intravenous route was 0.7 and 0.05 ng/mg tissue, respectively. The use of this transfection method ensured preservation of NGF DNA in the liver tissue at a level of 0.24 ng/mg of tissue 1 day after administration of the plasmid construct, while after intravenous administration, expression of the analyzed DNA was not detected in blood and liver samples. After hydroporation, the maximum of relative normalized expression of cDNA (270 rel. units) was observed after 4 h, and after 1 day, this parameter decreased to 35 rel. units. Introduction of plasmid DNA of NGF by hydroporation prevented the development of disorders of neuromuscular conduction in a rats model of toxic neuropathy induced by subacute administration of malathion in a dose of 0.5 LD 50 .

  16. Successful combination immunotherapy of anti-gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor antibody-positive encephalitis with extensive multifocal brain lesions.

    PubMed

    Fukami, Yuki; Okada, Hiroaki; Yoshida, Mari; Yamaguchi, Keiji

    2017-08-31

    A 78-year old woman who presented with akinetic mutism was admitted to our hospital. Brain MRI showed multifocal increased T 2 /FLAIR signal with extensive cortical-subcortical involvement. We suspected autoimmune encephalitis and the patient received methylprednisolone pulse. Her conscious level gradually recovered, but later relapsed again and presented with refractory status epilepticus. We treated her with intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange and pulsed cyclophosphamide, with satisfactory response. A brain biopsy showed perivascular lymphocytic infiltrates and reactive gliosis. Anti-gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor antibodies test came back to be positive after her recovery, and the diagnosis of anti-GABA A receptor antibody-positive encephalitis was made. This is a very rare case where brain biopsies were performed in a patient with anti-GABA A receptor antibody-positive encephalitis.

  17. IL-6 Mediates Macrophage Infiltration after Irradiation via Up-regulation of CCL2/CCL5 in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xin; Yang, Xiaodong; Tsai, Ying; Yang, Li; Chuang, Kuang-Hsiang; Keng, Peter C; Lee, Soo Ok; Chen, Yuhchyau

    2017-01-01

    Radiotherapy is effective in reducing primary tumors, however, it may enhance macrophage infiltration to tumor sites, accelerating tumor progression in several ways. We investigated whether radiation can increase macrophage infiltration into non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells. Analysis of in vitro macrophage (differentiated THP-1 cells) migration to either nonirradiated or irradiated tumor cells showed increased migration to the irradiated tumor cells. Because the IL-6 levels in A549 and H157 cells were significantly increased after irradiation, we then investigated whether this increased IL-6 level contributes to radiation-induced macrophage migration. Radiation-induced macrophage infiltration was reduced when IL-6 was knocked down in tumor cells, indicating a positive IL-6 role in this process. To validate this in vitro result, an orthotopic mouse model was developed using a luciferase-tagged H157siIL-6/scramble control (sc) cell set. After tumors developed, the lungs were irradiated, and infiltration of endogenous macrophages and tail-vein injected fluorescent macrophages to tumor sites was investigated. In both groups, increased macrophage infiltration was observed in H157sc cell-derived xenografts compared to H157siIL-6 cell-derived xenografts, confirming the positive IL-6 role in the radiation-induced macrophage infiltration process. In mechanistic dissection studies, radiation-induced up-regulation of CCL2 and CCL5 by IL-6 was detected, and blocking the action of CCL2/CCL5 molecules significantly reduced the number of migrated macrophages to tumor cells after irradiation. These results demonstrate that targeting the IL-6 signaling or CCL2/CCL5 molecules in combination with conventional radiotherapy potentially blocks undesired radiation-induced macrophage infiltration.

  18. PubMed Central

    DOBRETSOV, K.; STOLYAR, S.

    2015-01-01

    SUMMARY Herein we examined the toxicity, penetration properties and ability of Fe2O3·nH2O magnetic nanoparticles extracted from silt of the Borovoye Lake (Krasnoyarsk, Russia) to bind an antibiotic. Experimental studies were carried out using magnetic nanoparticles alone and after antibiotic exposure in tissue samples from nasal mucosa, cartilage and bone (in vitro). Toxicity of particles was studied in laboratory animals (in vivo). Tissues removed at endonasal surgery (nasal mucosa, cartilage and bone of the nasal septum) were placed in solution containing nanoparticles and exposed to a magnetic field. Distribution of nanoparticles was determined by Perls' reaction. After intravenous injection, possible toxic effects of injected nanoparticles on the organs and tissues of rats were evaluated by histological examination. Binding between the nanoparticles and antibiotic (amoxicillin clavulanate) was studied using infrared spectroscopy. In 30 in vitro experiments, magnetisation of Fe2O3·nH2O nanoparticles resulted in their diffuse infiltration into the mucosa, cartilage and bone tissue of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Intravenous injection of 0.2 ml of magnetic nanoparticles into the rat's tail vein did not result in any changes in parenchymatous organs, and the nanoparticles were completely eliminated from the body within 24 hours. The interaction of nanoparticles with amoxicillin clavulanate was demonstrated by infrared spectroscopy. Positive results of experimental studies provide a basis for further clinical investigations of these magnetic nanoparticles and their use in otorhinolaryngology. PMID:26019393

  19. P-Selectin Targeted Dexamethasone-Loaded Lipid Nanoemulsions: A Novel Therapy to Reduce Vascular Inflammation

    PubMed Central

    Simion, Viorel; Constantinescu, Cristina Ana; Stan, Daniela; Deleanu, Mariana; Tucureanu, Monica Madalina; Butoi, Elena; Manduteanu, Ileana; Simionescu, Maya

    2016-01-01

    Inflammation is a common process associated with numerous vascular pathologies. We hypothesized that targeting the inflamed endothelium by coupling a peptide with high affinity for P-selectin to the surface of dexamethasone-loaded lipid nanoemulsions will highly increase their specific binding to activated endothelial cells (EC) and reduce the cell activation. We developed and characterized dexamethasone-loaded lipid nanoemulsions directed towards P-selectin (PLN-Dex) and monitored their anti-inflammatory effects in vitro using cultured EC (EA.hy926 cells) and in vivo using a mouse model of acute inflammation [lipopolysaccharides (LPS) intravenously administered in C57BL/6 mice]. We found that PLN-Dex bound specifically to the surface of activated EC are efficiently internalized by EC and reduced the expression of proinflammatory genes, thus preventing the monocyte adhesion and transmigration to/through activated EC. Given intravenously in mice with acute inflammation, PLN-Dex accumulated at a significant high level in the lungs (compared to nontargeted nanoemulsions) and significantly reduced mRNA expression level of key proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1. In conclusion, the newly developed nanoformulation, PLN-Dex, is functional in vitro and in vivo, reducing selectively the endothelium activation and the consequent monocyte infiltration and diminishing significantly the lungs' inflammation, in a mouse model of acute inflammation. PMID:27703301

  20. Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Introduction of a new modified experimental model.

    PubMed

    Curra, Cláudia; Cardoso, Camila Lopes; Ferreira, Osny; Curi, Marcos Martins; Matsumoto, Mariza Akemi; Cavenago, Bruno Cavalini; Santos, Pâmela Letícia Dos; Santiago, Joel Ferreira

    2016-05-01

    To evaluate a modified experimental model for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) through the upper right central incisor extraction followed by intravenous bisphosphonate administration. Forty five rats underwent the upper right central incisor tooth extraction were divided in 2 groups: Group I - experimental group, 30 rats received an intravenous administration protocol of zoledronic acid 35μg/kg into the tail vein every two weeks, totalizing four administrations, during eight weeks of administration, previously the extraction, and Group II - control group, 15 rats didn't received any medication before extraction. The groups were subdivided in postoperative periods: 14/28/42 days. Clinical analysis and microtomography were performed to verify the presence of osteonecrosis. In addition, descritive histological analysis of hematoxylin-eosin stained sections was performed to evaluate the presence of osteonecrosis or necrotic foci. Twelve (40%) rats, from experimental group, showed clinical signs of MRONJ (p=0.005), however, all samples showed imaginologic findings like osteolysis and loss of integrity of the cellular walls (p≤0.001). Microscopic evaluation revealed osteonecrosis areas with microbial colonies and inflammatory infiltrate (p≤0.001). In the control group, all animals presented the chronology of a normal wound healing. The presence of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw after maxillary central incisor extraction in rats. This new experimental model may be considered an option for the study of MRONJ.

  1. Ultrasound molecular imaging of acute cardiac transplantation rejection using nanobubbles targeted to T lymphocytes.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jinfeng; Chen, Yihan; Wang, Guohua; Lv, Qing; Yang, Yali; Wang, Jing; Zhang, Pingyu; Liu, Jie; Xie, Yu; Zhang, Li; Xie, Mingxing

    2018-04-01

    Clinical surveillance of acute heart transplantation rejection requires repeated invasive endomyocardial biopsies and noninvasive diagnostic techniques are desperately needed. It is acknowledged that T lymphocyte infiltration is the central process of acute rejection. We hypothesized that ultrasound molecular imaging with T lymphocyte-targeted nanobubbles could be used to detect acute rejection in heart transplantation. In this study, nanobubbles bearing anti-CD3 antibody (NB CD3 ) or isotype antibody (NB con ) were prepared and characterized. There was significant adhesion of NB CD3 to T lymphocytes compared with NB con in vitro. The signal intensity of the adherent NB CD3 was significantly higher than that of the NB con in allograft rats, but not significantly different in isograft rats. Furthermore, the signal intensity of NB CD3 in allograft rats was significantly higher than that in isograft rats, indicating more T lymphocyte infiltration in allograft rats compared with isograft rats. These results were further confirmed by immunohistochemistry examination, and the signal intensity of NB CD3 was positively correlated with the number of T lymphocytes in allograft rats. In summary, ultrasound molecular imaging with T lymphocyte-targeted nanobubbles can detect T lymphocyte infiltration in acute rejection and could be used as a noninvasive method in acute rejection detection after cardiac transplantation. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  2. California serogroup and Powassan virus infection of cats.

    PubMed

    Keane, D P; Parent, J; Little, P B

    1987-08-01

    One hundred and seventy five sera from cats in Ontario, Canada, were tested for hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibodies to three arboviruses; namely, Powassan (POW) of the Flavivirus serogroup, and Snowshoe hare (SSH) and Jamestown Canyon (JC) viruses of the California (CAL) serogroup. All sera were negative for antibodies to POW virus. Twelve cats possessed CAL serogroup antibodies including 3 with antibodies to SSH alone, 6 with antibodies to JC alone, and 3 with antibodies to both SSH and JC antigens. POW virus was inoculated into seven cats, one intracerebrally and six intravenously. Neurologic signs were not detected in any of the cats. Histologic lesions of a nonsuppurative encephalitis and encephalomyelitis were observed in the intracerebrally inoculated cat and in one of the intravenously inoculated cats, respectively. POW virus was not isolated from the brain or spinal cord of either of these two cats. HI antibodies were detected in the sera of all inoculated animals. HI antibodies were not detected in the CSF of any animal.

  3. [A case of nonclostridial gas gangrene of the leg complicated by severe pneumonia].

    PubMed

    Matsui, Seiko; Baba, Kenji; Suzuki, Kiyoshi; Yamaguchi, Etsuro

    2005-10-01

    A 73-year-old man admitted for febrile left leg pain with dyspnea, who had poorly controlled diabetes was found on admission to have severe hypoxia and chest X-ray showed infiltrates in the middle to lower left lung. X-rays of the left leg showed gas around the knee joint. These findings suggested severe pneumonia with gas gangrene, necessitating immediate debridement of the gas gangrene lesion and hyperbaric oxygenation. Antibiotics were also administered intravenously (panipenem/betamipron 0.5 g x 3/day, clindamycin 600 mg x 2/day, and erythromycin 500 mg x 3/day). We conducted fiberoptic bronchoscope daily because consolidation of the whole left lung developed with purulent sputum expectoration. Both pneumonia and gas gangrene gradually ameliorated avoiding amputation of theleg. Gas gangrene was cured without leaving sequelae such as motor dysfunction. Staphylococcus aureus was detected in both pus from the leg and sputum collected by bronchoscopy. Microorganisms showed the same pattern of sensitivity to antibiotics, suggesting a causal relationship between pneumonia and gas gangrene through the blood stream. Gas gangrene was considered the primary infection followed by pneumonia, since pain and swelling of the left leg preceded the airway symptoms. The present case illustrates in compromised hosts including diabetics, gas gangrene may develop taking an opportunity of airway infection, and that in some cases, early debridement of the lesion and optimal use of antibiotics may help cure this disease without aggressive surgery. Hyperbaric oxygenation may also be useful, although its validity must be investigated further.

  4. An animal model for human EBV-associated hemophagocytic syndrome: herpesvirus papio frequently induces fatal lymphoproliferative disorders with hemophagocytic syndrome in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Hayashi, K; Ohara, N; Teramoto, N; Onoda, S; Chen, H L; Oka, T; Kondo, E; Yoshino, T; Takahashi, K; Yates, J; Akagi, T

    2001-04-01

    Epstein-Barr virus-associated hemophagocytic syndrome (EBV-AHS) is often associated with fatal infectious mononucleosis. However, the animal model for EBV-AHS has not been developed. We reported the first animal model for EBV-AHS using rabbits infected with EBV-related herpesvirus of baboon (HVP). Eleven of 13 (85%) rabbits inoculated intravenously with HVP-producing cells developed fatal lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) between 22 and 105 days after inoculation. LPD was also accompanied by hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) in nine of these 11 rabbits. The peroral spray of cell-free HVP induced the virus infection with increased anti-EBV-viral capsid antigen-IgG titers in three of five rabbits, and two of these three infected rabbits died of LPD with HPS. Autopsy revealed hepatosplenomegaly and swollen lymph nodes. Atypical lymphoid T cells expressing EBV-encoded small RNA-1 infiltrated diffusely in many organs, frequently involving the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver. Hemophagocytic histiocytosis was observed in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and thymus. HVP-DNA was detected in the tissues and peripheral blood from the infected rabbits by polymerase chain reaction or Southern blot analysis. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction revealed both HVP-EBNA1 and HVP-EBNA2 transcripts, suggesting latency type III infection. These data indicate that the high rate of rabbit LPD with HPS induction is caused by HVP. This system is useful for studying the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of human EBV-AHS.

  5. An Animal Model for Human EBV-Associated Hemophagocytic Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Hayashi, Kazuhiko; Ohara, Nobuya; Teramoto, Norihiro; Onoda, Sachiyo; Chen, Hong-Li; Oka, Takashi; Kondo, Eisaku; Yoshino, Tadashi; Takahashi, Kiyoshi; Yates, John; Akagi, Tadaatsu

    2001-01-01

    Epstein-Barr virus-associated hemophagocytic syndrome (EBV-AHS) is often associated with fatal infectious mononucleosis. However, the animal model for EBV-AHS has not been developed. We reported the first animal model for EBV-AHS using rabbits infected with EBV-related herpesvirus of baboon (HVP). Eleven of 13 (85%) rabbits inoculated intravenously with HVP-producing cells developed fatal lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) between 22 and 105 days after inoculation. LPD was also accompanied by hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) in nine of these 11 rabbits. The peroral spray of cell-free HVP induced the virus infection with increased anti-EBV-viral capsid antigen-IgG titers in three of five rabbits, and two of these three infected rabbits died of LPD with HPS. Autopsy revealed hepatosplenomegaly and swollen lymph nodes. Atypical lymphoid T cells expressing EBV-encoded small RNA-1 infiltrated diffusely in many organs, frequently involving the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver. Hemophagocytic histiocytosis was observed in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and thymus. HVP-DNA was detected in the tissues and peripheral blood from the infected rabbits by polymerase chain reaction or Southern blot analysis. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction revealed both HVP-EBNA1 and HVP-EBNA2 transcripts, suggesting latency type III infection. These data indicate that the high rate of rabbit LPD with HPS induction is caused by HVP. This system is useful for studying the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of human EBV-AHS. PMID:11290571

  6. [A case of both cryptococcal pneumonia and meningitis with idiopathic CD4+T-lymphocytopenia followed up over a long time].

    PubMed

    Anzai, Fumio; Yamamoto, Akito; Tannai, Noriyuki; Abe, Hideki; Tsuchiya, Kayoko; Kusajima, Kenji; Shimoide, Hisao; Nunomura, Maki

    2009-07-01

    A 62-year-old man had felt cold-like symptoms for 2 months. He visited a clinic for a health check in late July 1998 and chest X-ray film showed an infiltrative shadow in the left middle and lower lung fields. Next day he had a fever of 38.3 degrees C and felt breathless. Six days thereafter he had a cough, thick head and felt fatigue. Chest X-ray films showed other infiltrative shadows in the bilateral upper lung fields. He worked in a race track and was exposed to pigeons and seabirds at that time. Culture of sputum grew Cryptococcus neoformans. He was admitted and was treated with intravenous antifungal drugs. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed positive Indian ink stain for C. neoformans. The CD4 + T-lymphocyte count and CD8 + T-lymphocyte count were 143.4 cells/mm3 and 1288.8 cells/mm3 respectively, but without HIV infection. Cryptococcal pneumonia and meningitis with Idiopathic CD4 + T-lymphocytopenia was diagnosed. After induction therapy, the symptoms improved but abnormal shadows remained on chest X-ray films. Maintenance therapy has been continued at doses of 200 mg/day of fluconazole for 10 years. He has had no symptoms, but the abnormal X-ray shadow has persisted and the CD4 count has remained low during the same period.

  7. A biomaterial-assisted mesenchymal stromal cell therapy alleviates colonic radiation-induced damage.

    PubMed

    Moussa, Lara; Pattappa, Girish; Doix, Bastien; Benselama, Sarra-Louiza; Demarquay, Christelle; Benderitter, Marc; Sémont, Alexandra; Tamarat, Radia; Guicheux, Jérôme; Weiss, Pierre; Réthoré, Gildas; Mathieu, Noëlle

    2017-01-01

    Healthy tissues surrounding abdomino-pelvic tumours can be impaired by radiotherapy, leading to chronic gastrointestinal complications with substantial mortality. Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (Ad-MSCs) represent a promising strategy to reduce intestinal lesions. However, systemic administration of Ad-MSCs results in low cell engraftment within the injured tissue. Biomaterials, able to encapsulate and withstand Ad-MSCs, can overcome these limitations. A silanized hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (Si-HPMC) hydrogel has been designed and characterized for injectable cell delivery using the operative catheter of a colonoscope. We demonstrated that hydrogel loaded-Ad-MSCs were viable, able to secrete trophic factors and responsive to the inflammatory environment. In a rat model of radiation-induced severe colonic damage, Ad-MSC + Si-HPMC improve colonic epithelial structure and hyperpermeability compared with Ad-MSCs injected intravenously or locally. This therapeutic benefit is associated with greater engraftment of Si-HPMC-embedded Ad-MSCs in the irradiated colonic mucosa. Moreover, macrophage infiltration near the injection site was less pronounced when Ad-MSCs were embedded in the hydrogel. Si-HPMC induces modulation of chemoattractant secretion by Ad-MSCs that could contribute to the decrease in macrophage infiltrate. Si-HPMC is suitable for cell delivery by colonoscopy and induces protection of Ad-MSCs in the tissue potentiating their therapeutic effect and could be proposed to patients suffering from colon diseases. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  8. c-mip impairs podocyte proximal signaling and induces heavy proteinuria

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Shao-Yu; Kamal, Maud; Dahan, Karine; Pawlak, André; Ory, Virginie; Desvaux, Dominique; Audard, Vincent; Candelier, Marina; Mohamed, Fatima Ben; Matignon, Marie; Christov, Christo; Decrouy, Xavier; Bernard, Veronique; Mangiapan, Gilles; Lang, Philippe; Guellaën, Georges; Ronco, Pierre; Sahali, Djillali

    2010-01-01

    Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome comprises several podocyte diseases of unknown origin, affecting the glomerular podocyte, which plays a key role in controlling the permeability of the kidney filter to proteins. It is characterized by the daily loss of more than 3 g of protein in urine, with no inflammatory lesions or cell infiltration. Nephrotic syndrome may be associated with serious complications, including sodium retention, hyperlipidemia, infectious diseases and thromboembolic events. The molecular mechanisms underlying non genetic nephrotic syndromes are unknown. We report here that the abundance of c-mip (c-maf inducing protein) increases in the podocytes of patients with acquired idiopathic nephrotic syndromes, including minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS), a subset of focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and membranous nephropathy (MN), in which the podocyte is the main target of injury. Transgenic mice overproducing c-mip in podocytes developed proteinuria without morphological alterations, inflammatory lesions or cell infiltration. We found that c-mip turned off podocyte signaling by preventing the interaction of nephrin with the tyrosine kinase Fyn, thereby decreasing nephrin phosphorylation in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, c-mip inhibited interactions between Fyn and N-WASP and between Nck and nephrin, potentially accounting for cytoskeletal disorganization and the effacement of foot processes. The intravenous injection of a small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting c-mip prevented lipopolysaccharide-induced proteinuria in mice. These results provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of acquired podocyte diseases. PMID:20484117

  9. Detection of semi-volatile organic compounds in permeable ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    Abstract The Edison Environmental Center (EEC) has a research and demonstration permeable parking lot comprised of three different permeable systems: permeable asphalt, porous concrete and interlocking concrete permeable pavers. Water quality and quantity analysis has been ongoing since January, 2010. This paper describes a subset of the water quality analysis, analysis of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) to determine if hydrocarbons were in water infiltrated through the permeable surfaces. SVOCs were analyzed in samples collected from 11 dates over a 3 year period, from 2/8/2010 to 4/1/2013.Results are broadly divided into three categories: 42 chemicals were never detected; 12 chemicals (11 chemical test) were detected at a rate of less than 10% or less; and 22 chemicals were detected at a frequency of 10% or greater (ranging from 10% to 66.5% detections). Fundamental and exploratory statistical analyses were performed on these latter analyses results by grouping results by surface type. The statistical analyses were limited due to low frequency of detections and dilutions of samples which impacted detection limits. The infiltrate data through three permeable surfaces were analyzed as non-parametric data by the Kaplan-Meier estimation method for fundamental statistics; there were some statistically observable difference in concentration between pavement types when using Tarone-Ware Comparison Hypothesis Test. Additionally Spearman Rank order non-parame

  10. Deciphering the message broadcast by tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells.

    PubMed

    Karthaus, Nina; Torensma, Ruurd; Tel, Jurjen

    2012-09-01

    Human dendritic cells (DCs) infiltrate solid tumors, but this infiltration occurs in favorable and unfavorable disease prognoses. The statistical inference is that tumor-infiltrating DCs (TIDCs) play no conclusive role in predicting disease progression. This is remarkable because DCs are highly specialized antigen-presenting cells linking innate and adaptive immunity. DCs either boost the immune system (enhancing immunity) or dampen it (leading to tolerance). This dual effect explains the dual outcomes of cancer progression. The reverse functional characteristics of DCs depend on their maturation status. This review elaborates on the markers used to detect DCs in tumors. In many cases, the identification of DCs in human cancers relies on staining for S-100 and CD1a. These two markers are mainly expressed by Langerhans cells, which are one of several functionally different DC subsets. The activation status of DCs is based on the expression of CD83, DC-SIGN, and DC-LAMP, which are nonspecific markers of DC maturation. The detection of TIDCs has not kept pace with the increased knowledge about the identification of DC subsets and their maturation status. Therefore, it is difficult to draw a conclusion about the performance of DCs in tumors. We suggest a novel selection of markers to distinguish human DC subsets and maturation states. The use of these biomarkers will be of pivotal importance to scrutinize the prognostic significance of TIDCs. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Immunocyte Response to Experimental Mumps Virus Infection in Rhesus Monkeys

    PubMed Central

    Genco, R. J.; Flanagan, T. D.; Emmings, F. G.

    1973-01-01

    Nineteen rhesus monkeys were inoculated with mumps virus by retrograde ductal instillation into the parotid gland. Evidence of infection was obtained in all instances. Virus was isolated from buccal swabbings and parotid biopsies for 1 week after inoculation. A vigorous serum-neutralizing antibody response occurred within 3 weeks, and there was marked monocytic infiltration of the parotid stroma. The monocytic infiltrate comprised as much as 60% of the total gland volume 1 week after infection. The predominant inflammatory cells were non-immunoglobulin-containing mononuclear cells resembling lymphocytes. Plasma cells containing immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgA, IgM, and IgE increased in numbers in the gland after infection, the greatest increase occurring in IgG-containing cells. Neutralizing antibodies and interferon were found in extracts prepared from the infected glands. Neutralizing activity was highest in samples taken 3 weeks after infection but was detectable in samples taken as soon as 36 to 48 h after infection. Interferon activity was detected in significant amounts 36 to 48 h after infection. Challenge of previously infected animals resulted in an increase in the monocytic infiltrate as well as an increase in numbers of immunoglobulin-containing plasma cells. However, reinfection did not occur as evidenced by the inability to culture shed virus after challenge. This model should be useful for in vivo study of biochemical mediators which evoke inflammatory cell infiltration and which may be significant both in protection and in tissue damage. PMID:4202659

  12. Combined radioguided parathyroidectomy and intravenous vitamin D therapy for the treatment of uraemic hyperparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Oyama, Yuko; Kazama, J James; Maruyama, Hiroki; Narita, Ichiei; Kanbayashi, Chizuko; Koyama, Yu; Omori, Tsukasa; Hatakeyama, Katsuyoshi; Gejyo, Fumitake

    2003-06-01

    Therapy combining radioguided parathyroidectomy (PTx) followed by intravenous maxacalcitol was given to a 50-year-old Japanese man referred for treatment of uraemic secondary hyperparathyroidism. After laboratory and radiological examinations, the patient underwent uncomplicated, successful surgery, but glands that had not been detected radiologically before the procedure became apparent with a scintillation counter immediately after the removal of the swollen gland. To prevent relapse of secondary hyperparathyroidism in the remaining glands, 10 microg of maxacalcitol was injected intravenously after each dialysis session. Following a minimally invasive radioisotope-guided PTx, the potential risk of relapse in the remaining glands has to be considered and intensive medical therapy should be instituted immediately after the operation. Further study needs to elucidate whether this treatment strategy can improve the long-term prognosis of patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism

  13. Proton beam irradiation: a safe procedure in post-equatorial extraocular extension from uveal melanoma.

    PubMed

    Seibel, Ira; Riechardt, Aline I; Erb-Eigner, Katharina; Böker, Alexander; Cordini, Dino; Heufelder, Jens; Joussen, Antonia M

    2018-04-12

    This study was performed to show long-term outcomes concerning metastasis rates and local recurrence rates after primary proton beam therapy in uveal melanoma with posterior extraocular extension (EOE) with the main focus on optic nerve invasion. Retrospective case series METHODS: All patients treated with primary proton beam therapy for choroidal or ciliary body melanoma with posterior EOE between July 1998 and August 2010 were included. EOE was either detected upon sonography at primary examination or during the surgical application of tantalum clips onto the sclera. Ultrasound was performed in each patient before surgery, and if EOE was detected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan was performed to confirm EOE. All patients with tumors exceeding 6 mm in thickness or abutting the optic disc received a 1.5 Tesla MRI scan after clip surgery. To asses EOE during follow-up, either ultrasound examinations or-if initially detected only by MRI-MRI scans were performed during follow-up. A total of 27 patients underwent primary proton beam therapy. The EOE was separated into 3 growth types: Optic nerve infiltration in 10 patients, vortex vein infiltration in 9 patients, and transscleral growth post-equatorially in 8 patients. No local recurrences were found during the overall median follow-up of 80 months (11-168 months). Metastasis rates correlated with AJCC stages but not EOE volume. This study shows that posterior EOE can safely be treated by proton beam therapy, even if the optic nerve is infiltrated. MRI enables safe detection of optic nerve invasion. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Histologic study of the effects of chemoembolization with preloaded doxorubicin beads in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Zurera, L J; Espejo, J J; Lombardo, S; Marchal, T; Muñoz, M C; Canis, M; Montero, J L

    2015-01-01

    To determine the degree of tumor necrosis in surgical specimens of hepatocellular carcinomas treated with microspheres preloaded with doxorubicin and to analyze the relationship between the degree of necrosis and a) morphologic factors and b) imaging biomarkers. We studied the livers of 21 patients who had undergone selective arterial chemoembolization with DC beads (Biocompatibles, UK) before receiving liver transplants. Imaging techniques detected 43 nodules (mean size, 25 mm). Angiography showed 25 hypervascularized nodules, 12 slightly vascularized nodules, and 6 avascular nodules. A total of 81 hepatocellular carcinomas (mean size, 15 mm) were detected in the specimens: two were capsular and two had vascular infiltration. The mean degree of necrosis after chemoembolization was 39%; necrosis was greater than 60% in 28 hepatocellular carcinomas and less than 60% in 52. The degree of necrosis correlated significantly with the time elapsed between the last chemoembolization treatment and liver transplantation (the degree of necrosis decreased as time increased), with the number of nodules in the specimen, and with capsular infiltration. When imaging techniques detected 1 or 2 nodules, there was a greater probability of achieving greater than 90% necrosis. No relation with the degree of necrosis achieved was found for the size of the nodules detected at imaging, the enhancement pattern, or the number of chemoembolization treatments. The degree of necrosis achieved depends on the time spent on the waiting list, on the number of nodules in the specimen, and on whether capsular infiltration is present. Copyright © 2014 SERAM. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  15. The Effect Of Pixel Size On The Detection Rate Of Early Pulmonary Sarcoidosis In Digital Chest Radiographic Systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    MacMahon, Heber; Vyborny, Carl; Powell, Gregory; Doi, Kunio; Metz, Charles E.

    1984-08-01

    In digital radiography the pixel size used determines the potential spatial resolution of the system. The need for spatial resolution varies depending on the subject matter imaged. In many areas, including the chest, the minimum spatial resolution requirements have not been determined. Sarcoidosis is a disease which frequently causes subtle interstitial infiltrates in the lungs. As the initial step in an investigation designed to determine the minimum pixel size required in digital chest radiographic systems, we have studied 1 mm pixel digitized images on patients with early pulmonary sarcoidosis. The results of this preliminary study suggest that neither mild interstitial pulmonary infiltrates nor other abnormalities such as pneumothoraces may be detected reliably with 1 mm pixel digital images.

  16. Attempt to assess the infiltration of enamel made with experimental preparation using a scanning electron microscope.

    PubMed

    Skucha-Nowak, Małgorzata

    2015-01-01

    The resin infiltration technique, a minimally invasive method, involves the saturation, strengthening, and stabilization of demineralized enamel by a mixture of polymer resins without the need to use rotary tools or the risk of losing healthy tooth structures. To design and synthesize an experimental infiltrant with potential bacteriostatic properties.To compare the depth of infiltration of the designed experimental preparation with the infiltrant available in the market using a scanning electron microscope. Composition of the experimental infiltrant was established after analysis of 1H NMR spectra of the commercially available compounds that can penetrate pores of demineralized enamel. As the infiltrant should have bacteriostatic features by definition, an addition of 1% of monomer containing metronidazole was made. Thirty extracted human teeth were soaked in an acidic solution, which was to provide appropriate conditions for demineralization of enamel. Afterward, each tooth was divided along the coronal-root axis into two zones. One zone had experimental preparation applied to it (the test group), while the other had commercially available Icon (the control group). The teeth were dissected along the long axis and described above underwent initial observation with use of a Hitachi S-4200 scanning electron microscope. It was found that all samples contained only oxygen and carbon, regardless of the concentration of additions introduced into them. The occurrence of carbon is partially because it is a component of the preparation in question and partially because of sputtering of the sample with it. Hydrogen is also a component of the preparation, as a result of its phase composition; however, it cannot be detected by the EDS method. SEM, in combination with X-ray microanalysis, does not allow one to explicitly assess the depth of penetration of infiltration preparations into enamel.In order to assess the depth of penetration of infiltration preparations with use of X-ray microanalysis, it is recommended to introduce a contrast agent that is approved for use in dental materials, such as ytterbium III fluoride.

  17. A critical role for macrophages in neovessel formation and the development of stenosis in tissue-engineered vascular grafts

    PubMed Central

    Hibino, Narutoshi; Yi, Tai; Duncan, Daniel R.; Rathore, Animesh; Dean, Ethan; Naito, Yuji; Dardik, Alan; Kyriakides, Themis; Madri, Joseph; Pober, Jordan S.; Shinoka, Toshiharu; Breuer, Christopher K.

    2011-01-01

    The primary graft-related complication during the first clinical trial evaluating the use of tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) was stenosis. We investigated the role of macrophages in the formation of TEVG stenosis in a murine model. We analyzed the natural history of TEVG macrophage infiltration at critical time points and evaluated the role of cell seeding on neovessel formation. To assess the function of infiltrating macrophages, we implanted TEVGs into mice that had been macrophage depleted using clodronate liposomes. To confirm this, we used a CD11b-diphtheria toxin-receptor (DTR) transgenic mouse model. Monocytes infiltrated the scaffold within the first few days and initially transformed into M1 macrophages. As the scaffold degraded, the macrophage infiltrate disappeared. Cell seeding decreased the incidence of stenosis (32% seeded, 64% unseeded, P=0.024) and the degree of macrophage infiltration at 2 wk. Unseeded TEVGs demonstrated conversion from M1 to M2 phenotype, whereas seeded grafts did not. Clodronate and DTR inhibited macrophage infiltration and decreased stenosis but blocked formation of vascular neotissue, evidenced by the absence of endothelial and smooth muscle cells and collagen. These findings suggest that macrophage infiltration is critical for neovessel formation and provides a strategy for predicting, detecting, and inhibiting stenosis in TEVGs.—Hibino, N., Yi, T., Duncan, D. R., Rathore, A., Dean, E., Naito, Y., Dardik, A., Kyriakides, T., Madri, J., Pober, J. S., Shinoka, T., Breuer, C. K. A critical role for macrophages in neovessel formation and the development of stenosis in tissue-engineered vascular grafts. PMID:21865316

  18. Systematic review and meta-analysis of continuous local anaesthetic wound infiltration versus epidural analgesia for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery.

    PubMed

    Ventham, N T; Hughes, M; O'Neill, S; Johns, N; Brady, R R; Wigmore, S J

    2013-09-01

    Local anaesthetic wound infiltration techniques reduce opiate requirements and pain scores. Wound catheters have been introduced to increase the duration of action of local anaesthetic by continuous infusion. The aim was to compare these infiltration techniques with the current standard of epidural analgesia. A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating wound infiltration versus epidural analgesia in abdominal surgery was performed. The primary outcome was pain score at rest after 24 h on a numerical rating scale. Secondary outcomes were pain scores at rest at 48 h, and on movement at 24 and 48 h, with subgroup analysis according to incision type and administration regimen(continuous versus bolus), opiate requirements, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, catheter-related complications and treatment failure. Nine RCTs with a total of 505 patients were included. No differences in pain scores at rest 24 h after surgery were detected between epidural and wound infiltration. There were no significant differences in pain score at rest after 48 h, or on movement at 24 or 48 h after surgery. Epidural analgesia demonstrated a non-significant a trend towards reduced pain scores on movement and reduced opiate requirements. There was a reduced incidence of urinary retention in the wound catheter group. Within a heterogeneous group of RCTs, use of local anaesthetic wound infiltration was associated with pain scores comparable to those obtained with epidural analgesia. Further procedure-specific RCTs including broader measures of recovery are recommended to compare the overall efficacy of epidural and wound infiltration analgesic techniques.

  19. Spin-lock imaging of exogenous exchange-based contrast agents to assess tissue pH.

    PubMed

    Zu, Zhongliang; Li, Hua; Jiang, Xiaoyu; Gore, John C

    2018-01-01

    Some X-ray contrast agents contain exchangeable protons that give rise to exchange-based effects on MRI, including chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST). However, CEST has poor specificity to explicit exchange parameters. Spin-lock sequences at high field are also sensitive to chemical exchange. Here, we evaluate whether spin-locking techniques can detect the contrast agent iohexol in vivo after intravenous administration, and their potential for measuring changes in tissue pH. Two metrics of contrast based on R 1ρ , the spin lattice relaxation rate in the rotating frame, were derived from the behavior of R 1ρ at different locking fields. Solutions containing iohexol at different concentrations and pH were used to evaluate the ability of the two metrics to quantify exchange effects. Images were also acquired from rat brains bearing tumors before and after intravenous injections of iohexol to evaluate the potential of spin-lock techniques for detecting the agent and pH variations. The two metrics were found to depend separately on either agent concentration or pH. Spin-lock imaging may therefore provide specific quantification of iohexol concentration and the iohexol-water exchange rate, which reports on pH. Spin-lock techniques may be used to assess the dynamics of intravenous contrast agents and detect extracellular acidification. Magn Reson Med 79:298-305, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  20. DNA biosensors implemented on PNA-functionalized microstructured optical fibers Bragg gratings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Candiani, A.; Giannetti, S.; Cucinotta, A.; Bertucci, A.; Manicardi, A.; Konstantaki, M.; Margulis, W.; Pissadakis, S.; Corradini, R.; Selleri, S.

    2013-05-01

    A novel DNA sensing platform based on a Peptide Nucleic Acid - functionalized Microstructured Optical Fibers gratings has been demonstrated. The inner surface of different MOFs has been functionalized using PNA probes, OligoNucleotides mimic that are well suited for specific DNA target sequences detection. The hybrid sensing systems were tested for optical DNA detection of targets of relevance in biomedical application, using the cystic fibrosis gene mutation, and food-analysis, using the genomic DNA from genetic modified organism soy flour. After the solutions of DNA molecules has been infiltrated inside the fibers capillaries and hybridization has occurred, oligonucleotidefunctionalized gold nanoparticles were infiltrated and used to form a sandwich-like system to achieve signal amplification. Spectral measurements of the reflected signal reveal a clear wavelength shift of the reflected modes when the infiltrated complementary DNA matches with the PNA probes placed on the inner fiber surface. Measurements have also been made using the mismatched DNA solution for the c, containing a single nucleotide polymorphism, showing no significant changes in the reflected spectrum. Several experiments have been carried out demonstrating the reproducibility of the results and the high selectivity of the sensors, showing the simplicity and the potential of this approach.

  1. The prognostic value of natural killer cell infiltration in resected pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

    PubMed

    Takanami, I; Takeuchi, K; Giga, M

    2001-06-01

    Natural cytotoxicity caused by mediated natural killer cells is believed to play an important role in host-cancer defense mechanisms. Immunohistochemically, we have detected natural killer cells in tissue specimens from patients with pulmonary adenocarcinoma and have assessed their clinical characteristics. Using the monoclonal antibody for CD57 specific marker for natural killer cells, we quantified natural killer cell infiltration in 150 patients with pulmonary adenocarcinoma who underwent curative tumor resection to investigate the relationship between natural killer cell counts and clinicopathologic factors and prognosis. The natural killer cell count was significantly related to the regulation of tumor progression, involving T classification, N classification, and stage (P =.01 for T classification or stage; P =.02 for N classification). A significant difference in the rate of patient survival was detected between those patients whose tumors had either high or low natural killer cell counts in both the overall and stage I groups (P =.0002 for the overall group; P =.049 for the stage I group). These data indicate that natural killer infiltration may contribute to the regulation of tumor progression and that the natural killer cell count can serve as a useful prognostic marker in overall and stage I pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

  2. Influence of macroporosity on preferential solute and colloid transport in unsaturated field soils.

    PubMed

    Cey, Edwin E; Rudolph, David L; Passmore, Joanna

    2009-06-26

    Transport of solutes and colloids in soils, particularly those subject to preferential flow along macropores, is important for assessing the vulnerability of shallow groundwater to contamination. The objective of this study was to investigate flow and transport phenomena for dissolved and colloid tracers during large infiltration events in partially saturated, macroporous soils. Controlled tracer infiltration tests were completed at two field sites in southern Ontario. A tension infiltrometer (TI) was used to infiltrate water with dissolved Brilliant Blue FCF dye simultaneously with 3.7 microm and 0.53 microm diameter fluorescent microspheres. Infiltration was conducted under maximum infiltration pressure heads ranging from -5.2 to -0.4 cm. All infiltration test sites were excavated to examine and photograph dye-stained flow patterns, map soil features, and collect samples for microsphere enumeration. Results indicated that preferential transport of dye and microspheres via macropores occurred when maximum pressure heads were greater than -3.0 cm, and the corresponding infiltration rates exceeded 2.0 cm h(-1). Dye and microspheres were detected at depths greater than 70 cm under the highest infiltration rates from both sites. Microsphere concentrations in the top 5-10 cm of soil decreased by more than two orders of magnitude relative to input concentrations, yet remained relatively constant with depth thereafter. There was some evidence for increased retention of the 3.7 microm microspheres relative to the 0.53 microm microspheres, particularly at lower infiltration pressures where straining and attachment mechanisms are most prevalent. Microspheres were observed within dye stained soil matrix surrounding individual macropores, illustrating the significance of capillary pressures in controlling the vertical migration of both tracers in the vicinity of the macropores. Overall, microsphere distributions closely followed the dye patterns, with microsphere concentrations at all depths directly related to the intensity (or concentration) of dye staining. It is concluded that the flow system influenced transport to a much greater degree than differences between dissolved and colloidal species, and hence a dye tracer could serve as a reasonable surrogate for colloid distributions in the vadose zone following individual infiltration events.

  3. Infiltrated photonic crystal cavity as a highly sensitive platform for glucose concentration detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arafa, Safia; Bouchemat, Mohamed; Bouchemat, Touraya; Benmerkhi, Ahlem; Hocini, Abdesselam

    2017-02-01

    A Bio-sensing platform based on an infiltrated photonic crystal ring shaped holes cavity-coupled waveguide system is proposed for glucose concentration detection. Considering silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology, it has been demonstrated that the ring shaped holes configuration provides an excellent optical confinement within the cavity region, which further enhances the light-matter interactions at the precise location of the analyte medium. Thus, the sensitivity and the quality factor (Q) can be significantly improved. The transmission characteristics of light in the biosensor under different refractive indices that correspond to the change in the analyte glucose concentration are analyzed by performing finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations. Accordingly, an improved sensitivity of 462 nm/RIU and a Q factor as high as 1.11х105 have been achieved, resulting in a detection limit of 3.03х10-6 RIU. Such combination of attributes makes the designed structure a promising element for performing label-free biosensing in medical diagnosis and environmental monitoring.

  4. Occurrence and distribution of organophosphorus flame retardants and plasticizers in anthropogenically affected groundwater.

    PubMed

    Regnery, J; Püttmann, W; Merz, C; Berthold, G

    2011-02-01

    Occurrence and distribution of chlorinated and non-chlorinated organophosphates in 72 groundwater samples from Germany under different recharge/infiltration conditions were investigated. Tris(2-chloro-1-methylethyl) phosphate (TCPP) and tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) were the most frequently detected organophosphates in groundwater samples. Highest individual organophosphate concentrations (>0.1 µg L(-1)) were determined in groundwater polluted by infiltrating leachate and groundwater recharged via riverbank filtration of organophosphate-loaded recipients. In samples from springs and deep groundwater monitoring wells that are not affected by surface waters, organophosphate concentrations were mostly below the limit of detection. The occurrence (3-9 ng L(-1)) of TCPP and TCEP in samples from aquifers with groundwater ages between 20 and 45 years indicates the persistence of both compounds within the aquifer. At urban sites organophosphate-loaded precipitation, surface runoff, and leakage of wastewater influenced groundwater quality. For rural sites, where groundwater recharge is only influenced by precipitation, organophosphates were very rarely detectable in groundwater.

  5. Detection and characterization of naturally acquired West Nile virus infection in a female wild turkey.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Z; Wilson, F; Read, R; Pace, L; Zhang, S

    2006-03-01

    An adult female wild turkey exhibiting disorientation and failure to flee when approached was submitted to the Mississippi Veterinary Research and Diagnostic Laboratory. Gross pathologic examination revealed evidence of dehydration and the presence of modest numbers of adult nematodes in the small intestine. Histologic examination revealed extensive multifocal perivascular lymphocytic infiltration in brain, marked heterophilic hyperplasia in bone marrow, and multifocal interstitial lymphocytic infiltration in heart, pancreas, ventriculus, and skeletal muscles. West Nile virus (WNV) was isolated from the brain, lung, and kidney tissues using cultured Vero cells. Higher copies of viral RNA were detected from brain, lung, and kidney than from heart, liver, or spleen by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RRT-PCR) analysis. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis detected WNV antigen in various tissues including neurons, kidney, respiratory tract epithelium, heart, and bone marrow. On the basis of the data from this investigation, it is concluded that WNV caused encephalitis along with many other pathologic changes in the affected wild turkey.

  6. Intravenous Thrombolysis for Stroke and Presumed Stroke in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Adults: A Retrospective, Multicenter US Study.

    PubMed

    AbdelRazek, Mahmoud A; Gutierrez, Jose; Mampre, David; Cervantes-Arslanian, Anna; Ormseth, Cora; Haussen, Diogo; Thakur, Kiran T; Lyons, Jennifer L; Smith, Bryan R; O'Connor, Owen; Willey, Joshua Z; Mateen, Farrah J

    2018-01-01

    Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has been shown to increase both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke risks, but there are limited data on the safety and outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis with tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) for acute ischemic stroke in HIV-infected patients. A retrospective chart review of intravenous tPA-treated HIV patients who presented with acute stroke symptoms was performed in 7 large inner-city US academic centers (various search years between 2000 and 2017). We collected data on HIV, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, ischemic stroke risk factors, opportunistic infections, intravenous drug abuse, neuroimaging findings, and modified Rankin Scale score at last follow-up. We identified 33 HIV-infected patients treated with intravenous tPA (mean age, 51 years; 24 men), 10 of whom were stroke mimics. Sixteen of 33 (48%) patients had an HIV viral load less than the limit of detection while 10 of 33 (30%) had a CD4 count <200/mm 3 . The median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score at presentation was 9, and mean time from symptom onset to tPA was 144 minutes (median, 159). The median modified Rankin Scale score for the 33-patient cohort was 1 and for the 23-patient actual stroke cohort was 2, measured at a median of 90 days poststroke symptom onset. Two patients had nonfatal hemorrhagic transformation (6%; 95% confidence interval, 1%-20%), both in the actual stroke group. Two patients had varicella zoster virus vasculitis of the central nervous system, 1 had meningovascular syphilis, and 7 other patients were actively using intravenous drugs (3 cocaine, 1 heroin, and 3 unspecified), none of whom had hemorrhagic transformation. Most HIV-infected patients treated with intravenous tPA for presumed and actual acute ischemic stroke had no complications, and we observed no fatalities. Stroke mimics were common, and thrombolysis seems safe in this group. We found no data to suggest an increased risk of intravenous tPA-related complications because of concomitant opportunistic infections or intravenous drug abuse. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  7. 76 FR 31941 - Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative Management Act Provisions; Horseshoe Crabs; Application...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-06-02

    ... endotoxins. The LAL assay is used by medical professionals, drug companies, and pharmacies to detect endotoxins in intravenous pharmaceuticals and medical devices that come into contact with human blood or...

  8. New phytopharmaceutical agent CJ-20001 modulates stress-induced inflammatory infiltration into gastric mucosa.

    PubMed

    Yeo, Marie; Kim, Dong-Kyu; Cho, Sung Won; Lee, Song-Jin; Cho, Il-Hwan; Song, Geun-Seog; Moon, Byoung-Seok

    2012-05-01

    CJ-20001 is a phytopharmaceutical agent and currently being investigated in a Phase II trial for the treatment of acute and chronic gastritis patients in Korea. In this study we addressed the protective effects of CJ-20001 against water immersion restraint stress (WIRS)-induced gastric injury in rats and studied the underlying mechanisms. To evaluate the protective effect of CJ-20001 on stress-induced gastric lesions, rats were exposed to water immersion restraint stress. Inflammatory infiltration into gastric mucosa was examined by immunohistochemistry and in vitro invasion assay. Expression of proinflammatory cytokines was detected with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Pretreatment with CJ-20001 dose-dependently attenuated the WIRS-induced gastric lesions as demonstrated by gross pathology and histology. WIRS increased infiltration of mast cells and macrophages into the gastric mucosa and submucosal layer, whereas the inflammatory infiltration was markedly inhibited by CJ-20001 administration. An in vitro cell invasion assay showed that treatment with CJ-20001 decreased the migration of macrophages. CJ-20001 suppressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-18, IP-10 and GRO/KC, in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-treated macrophages. These data suggest that novel phytopharmaceutical agent CJ-20001 has the potent anti-inflammatory properties through inhibition of inflammatory infiltration in psycho-physiological stress-induced gastric injury.

  9. Evaluating the performance of water purification in a vegetated groundwater recharge basin maintained by short-term pulsed infiltration events.

    PubMed

    Mindl, Birgit; Hofer, Julia; Kellermann, Claudia; Stichler, Willibald; Teichmann, Günter; Psenner, Roland; Danielopol, Dan L; Neudorfer, Wolfgang; Griebler, Christian

    2015-01-01

    Infiltration of surface water constitutes an important pillar in artificial groundwater recharge. However, insufficient transformation of organic carbon and nutrients, as well as clogging of sediments often cause major problems. The attenuation efficiency of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), nutrients and pathogens versus the risk of bioclogging for intermittent recharge were studied in an infiltration basin covered with different kinds of macrovegetation. The quality and concentration of organic carbon, major nutrients, as well as bacterial biomass, activity and diversity in the surface water, the porewater, and the sediment matrix were monitored over one recharge period. Additionally, the numbers of viral particles and Escherichia coli were assessed. Our study showed a fast establishment of high microbial activity. DOC and nutrients have sustainably been reduced within 1.2 m of sediment passage. Numbers of E. coli, which were high in the topmost centimetres of sediment porewater, dropped below the detection limit. Reed cover was found to be advantageous over bushes and trees, since it supported higher microbial activities along with a good infiltration and purification performance. Short-term infiltration periods of several days followed by a break of similar time were found suitable for providing high recharge rates, and good water purification without the risk of bioclogging.

  10. Non operative management of cerebral abscess

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Batubara, C. A.

    2018-03-01

    Cerebral abscess is a focal intracerebral infection that begins as a localized area of cerebritis and develops into a collection of pus surrounded by a well-vascularized capsule. Patients typically present with varying combinations of aheadache, progressive neurologic deficits, seizures, and evidence of infection. Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imagingare the most important diagnostic tools in diagnosing cerebral abscess. The treatment of cerebral abscess has been a challenge. Small cerebralabscesses (< 2.5 cm) have been treated empirically with antibiotics. Elevation of intracranial pressure and threatening herniation can be managed by the use of intravenous mannitol (or hypertonic saline) and dexamethasone. Acute seizures should be terminated with the administration of intravenous benzodiazepines or by intravenous fosphenytoin. Anticonvulsants prophylaxis must be initiated immediately and continued at least one year due to high risk in the cerebral abscesses. Easier detection of underlying conditions, monitoring of the therapeutic progress, and recognition of complications have probably contributed to the improved prognosis.

  11. Prognostic Value of the Tumour-Infiltrating Dendritic Cells in Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review.

    PubMed

    Malietzis, George; Lee, Gui H; Jenkins, John T; Bernardo, David; Moorghen, Morgan; Knight, Stella C; Al-Hassi, Hafid O

    2015-01-01

    Dendritic cells (DCs) either boost the immune system (enhancing immunity) or dampen it (leading to tolerance). This dual effect explains their vital role in cancer development and progression. DCs have been tested as a predictor of outcomes for cancer progression. Eight studies evaluated tumour-infiltrating DCs (TIDCs) as a predictor for colorectal cancer (CRC) outcomes. The detection of TIDCs has not kept pace with the increased knowledge about the identification of DC subsets and their maturation status. For that reason, it is difficult to draw a conclusion about the performance of DCs as a predictor of outcome for CRC. In this review, we comprehensively examine the evidence for the in situ immune response due to DC infiltration, in predicting outcome in primary CRC and how such information may be incorporated into routine clinical assessment.

  12. Using Standardized Interpretation of Chest Radiographs to Identify Adults with Bacterial Pneumonia--Guatemala, 2007-2012.

    PubMed

    Wortham, Jonathan M; Gray, Jennifer; Verani, Jennifer; Contreras, Carmen Lucia; Bernart, Chris; Moscoso, Fabiola; Moir, Juan Carlos; Reyes Marroquin, Emma Lissette; Castellan, Rigoberto; Arvelo, Wences; Lindblade, Kim; McCracken, John P

    2015-01-01

    Bacterial pneumonia is a leading cause of illness and death worldwide, but quantifying its burden is difficult due to insensitive diagnostics. Although World Health Organization (WHO) protocol standardizes pediatric chest radiograph (CXR) interpretation for epidemiologic studies of bacterial pneumonia, its validity in adults is unknown. Patients (age ≥ 15 years) admitted with respiratory infections to two Guatemalan hospitals between November 2007 and March 2012 had urine and nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal (NP/OP) swabs collected; blood cultures and CXR were also performed at physician clinical discretion. 'Any bacterial infection' was defined as a positive urine pneumococcal antigen test, isolation of a bacterial pneumonia pathogen from blood culture, or detection of an atypical bacterial pathogen by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal (NP/OP) specimens. 'Viral infection' was defined as detection of viral pathogens by PCR of NP/OP specimens. CXRs were interpreted according to the WHO protocol as having 'endpoint consolidation', 'other infiltrate', or 'normal' findings. We examined associations between bacterial and viral infections and endpoint consolidation. Urine antigen and/or blood culture results were available for 721 patients with CXR interpretations; of these, 385 (53%) had endpoint consolidation and 253 (35%) had other infiltrate. Any bacterial infection was detected in 119 (17%) patients, including 106 (89%) pneumococcal infections. Any bacterial infection (Diagnostic Odds Ratio [DOR] = 2.9; 95% confidence Interval (CI): 1.3-7.9) and pneumococcal infection (DOR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.5-10.0) were associated with 'endpoint consolidation', but not 'other infiltrate' (DOR = 1.7; 95% CI: 0.7-4.9, and 1.7; 95% CI: 0.7-4.9 respectively). Viral infection was not significantly associated with 'endpoint consolidation', 'other infiltrate,' or 'normal' findings. 'Endpoint consolidation' was associated with 'any bacterial infection,' specifically pneumococcal infection. Therefore, endpoint consolidation may be a useful surrogate for studies measuring the impact of interventions, such as conjugate vaccines, against bacterial pneumonia.

  13. Effectiveness of low level laser therapy for treating male infertility

    PubMed Central

    Vladimirovich Moskvin, Sergey; Ivanovich Apolikhin, Oleg

    2018-01-01

    In half of the cases, the infertility of the couple is due to the disorder of the male fertility. The leading factors that cause male infertility are urogenital infections, disorders of the immune system, testicular and prostate pathology, as well as endocrine disorders. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is a very effective physical therapy method, used in many areas of medicine, including obstetrics and gynaecology, andrology and urology; and it is recommended as an integral part of the complex treatment of infertility. The literature review showed that LLLT is beneficial in treating male infertility. Laser can significantly improve the survival, motility and speed of movement of spermatozoa. Laser therapy of patients with prostatitis and vesiculitis can eliminate infiltrative-exudative changes, improve reproductive and copulatory functions. Local illumination of red (635 nm) and infrared (904 nm) spectra should be combined with intravenous laser blood illumination (ILBI) of red (635 nm) and ultraviolet (UV) (365 nm) spectra. PMID:29806585

  14. Analytical and Biological Methods for Probing the Blood-Brain Barrier

    PubMed Central

    Sloan, Courtney D. Kuhnline; Nandi, Pradyot; Linz, Thomas H.; Aldrich, Jane V.; Audus, Kenneth L.; Lunte, Susan M.

    2013-01-01

    The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an important interface between the peripheral and central nervous systems. It protects the brain against the infiltration of harmful substances and regulates the permeation of beneficial endogenous substances from the blood into the extracellular fluid of the brain. It can also present a major obstacle in the development of drugs that are targeted for the central nervous system. Several methods have been developed to investigate the transport and metabolism of drugs, peptides, and endogenous compounds at the BBB. In vivo methods include intravenous injection, brain perfusion, positron emission tomography, and microdialysis sampling. Researchers have also developed in vitro cell-culture models that can be employed to investigate transport and metabolism at the BBB without the complication of systemic involvement. All these methods require sensitive and selective analytical methods to monitor the transport and metabolism of the compounds of interest at the BBB. PMID:22708905

  15. Intravenous human umbilical cord blood improves electrophysiological and metabolic properties in ISO induced myocardial necrosis in rats.

    PubMed

    Mohan, Mahalaxmi; Rokade, Rahul; Kasturet, Sanjay

    2013-03-01

    Rats treated with isoproterenol (ISO, 85 mg/kg, sc, twice at an interval of 24 h) showed a significant increase in heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, pressure rate index, ST elevation on ECG, and a significant increase in the levels of cardiac marker enzymes- lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase in serum and a significant reduction in superoxide dismutase, and catalase and increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance activity in heart tissue. Treatment with Human umbilical cord blood (hUCBC; 500 and 1000 microL, iv, via the tail vein; 2 h after the second dose of ISO) significantly restored back to normal levels and showed a lesser degree of cellular infiltration and infarct size in histopathological and planimetry studies respectively. Thus, hUCBC ameliorates cardiotoxic effects of isoproterenol and may be of value in the treatment of myocardial infarction.

  16. Chorioamnionitis caused by Serratia marcescens in a non-immunocompromised host

    PubMed Central

    Shimizu, S; Kojima, H; Yoshida, C; Suzukawa, K; Mukai, H Y; Hasegawa, Y; Hitomi, S; Nagasawa, T

    2003-01-01

    A 26 year old pregnant woman with antithrombin III deficiency developed recurrent septicaemia with Serratia marcescens. In spite of the administration of antibiotics, high grade fever persisted. She subsequently manifested lower abdominal pain, and spontaneous abortion occurred. After the abortion, she became completely afebrile. The amnion was turbid, and microscopic examination of the placenta showed haemorrhage and massive infiltration of neutrophils, suggestive of infectious chorioamnionitis. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis showed that isolates from the blood, urine, and vaginal discharge were genetically identical. Intravenous pyelography revealed that she had a bilateral completed double ureter. It was thought that a urinary tract anomaly caused infection with S marcescens, and the pathogen spread to the chorioamnion via the bloodstream. This is the first report of chorioamnionitis caused by S marcescens in a non-immunocompromised host. In addition, these findings indicate that the chorioamnion can serve as a site for persistent infection in normal pregnancies. PMID:14600137

  17. Design and Simulation of Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors for Environmental Monitoring

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mahmood, Aseel I.; Ibrahim, Rawa Kh; Mahmood, Aml I.; Ibrahim, Zainab Kh

    2018-05-01

    In this work a Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) sensor based on Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) infiltrated with water samples has been proposed. To accurate detection of the sample properties, gold is used as plasmonic material. The air holes of PCF has been infiltrated with water samples, the optical properties of these samples has been taken from samples collected from Al-Qadisiya and Wathba lab. (east Tigris, Wathba, and Al-Rasheed) water projects at Baghdad- Iraq. Finite Element Method (FEM) has been used to study the sensor performance and fiber properties. From the numerical investigation we get maximum sensitivity circa 164.3 nm/RIU in the sensing range of 1.33 (of STD water) to 1.3431 (of river sample). The proposed sensor could be developed to detect f various high refractive index (RI) chemicals like the heavy metals in water.

  18. An Open Pit Nanofluidic Tool: Localized Chemistry Assisted by Mesoporous Thin Film Infiltration.

    PubMed

    Mercuri, Magalí; Pierpauli, Karina A; Berli, Claudio L A; Bellino, Martín G

    2017-05-17

    Nanofluidics based on nanoscopic porous structures has emerged as the next evolutionary milestone in the construction of versatile nanodevices with unprecedented applications. However, the straightforward development of nanofluidically interconnected systems is crucial for the production of practical devices. Here, we demonstrate that spontaneous infiltration into supramolecularly templated mesoporous oxide films at the edge of a sessile drop in open air can be used to connect pairs of landmarks. The liquids from the drops can then join through the nanoporous network to guide a localized chemical reaction at the nanofluid-front interface. This method, here named "open-pit" nanofluidics, allows mixing reagents from nanofluidically connected droplet reservoirs that can be used as reactors to conduct reactions and precipitation processes. From the fundamental point of view, the work contributes to unveiling subtle phenomena during spontaneous infiltration of fluids in bodies with nanoscale dimensions such as the front broadening effect and the oscillatory behavior of the infiltration-evaporation front. The approach has distinctive advantages such as easy fabrication, low cost, and facility of scaling up for future development of ultrasensitive detection, controlled nanomaterial synthesis, and novel patterning methods.

  19. Migration and transformation of different phosphorus forms in rainfall runoff in bioretention system.

    PubMed

    Song, Yujia; Song, Shoufa

    2018-06-04

    Artificial bioretention system consisting of Ophiopogon japonicus infiltration medium was used to simulate an infiltration experiment of rainfall runoff. Continuous extraction method was used to detect contents of inorganic phosphorus (P) under exchangeable state (Ex-P) and aluminium phosphate (Al-P) and iron phosphate (Fe-P) at different depths (0, 5, 15 and 35 cm) of soil infiltration medium in bioretention system. Effluent total P (TP) concentration of the system was also monitored. Results indicated that the adsorption of inorganic P, Al-P and Fe-P by soil infiltration medium was implemented layer by layer from top to bottom and gradually weakened. Moreover, Ex-P was gradually transformed into Al-P and Fe-P, whereas Al-P was gradually transformed into Fe-P; thus, Ex-P content reduced layer by layer, whereas Al-P and Fe-P gradually accumulated. The TP removal rate in runoff rainwater by the system was more than 90%, where the TP that was not used by plants was under dynamic equilibrium in water-soil-root system/biological system.

  20. Feasibility of using optical coherence tomography to detect acute radiation-induced esophageal damage in small animal models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jelvehgaran, Pouya; de Bruin, Daniel Martijn; Salguero, F. Javier; Borst, Gerben Roelof; Song, Ji-Ying; van Leeuwen, Ton G.; de Boer, Johannes F.; Alderliesten, Tanja; van Herk, Marcel

    2018-04-01

    Lung cancer survival is poor, and radiation therapy patients often suffer serious treatment side effects. The esophagus is particularly sensitive leading to acute radiation-induced esophageal damage (ARIED). We investigated the feasibility of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for minimally invasive imaging of the esophagus with high resolution (10 μm) to detect ARIED in mice. Thirty mice underwent cone-beam computed tomography imaging for initial setup assessment and dose planning followed by a single-dose delivery of 4.0, 10.0, 16.0, and 20.0 Gy on 5.0-mm spots, spaced 10.0 mm apart in the esophagus. They were repeatedly imaged using OCT up to three months postirradiation. We compared OCT findings with histopathology obtained three months postirradiation qualitatively and quantitatively using the contrast-to-background-noise ratio (CNR). Histopathology mostly showed inflammatory infiltration and edema at higher doses; OCT findings were in agreement with most of the histopathological reports. We were able to identify the ARIED on OCT as a change in tissue scattering and layer thickness. Our statistical analysis showed significant difference between the CNR values of healthy tissue, edema, and inflammatory infiltration. Overall, the average CNR for inflammatory infiltration and edema damages was 1.6-fold higher and 1.6-fold lower than for the healthy esophageal wall, respectively. Our results showed the potential role of OCT to detect and monitor the ARIED in mice, which may translate to humans.

  1. Prevalence of polyreactive innate clones among graft--infiltrating B cells in human cardiac allograft vasculopathy.

    PubMed

    Chatterjee, Debanjana; Moore, Carolina; Gao, Baoshan; Clerkin, Kevin J; See, Sarah B; Shaked, David; Rogers, Kortney; Nunez, Sarah; Veras, Yokarla; Addonizio, Linda; Givertz, Michael M; Naka, Yoshifumi; Mancini, Donna; Vasilescu, Rodica; Marboe, Charles; Restaino, Susan; Madsen, Joren C; Zorn, Emmanuel

    2018-03-01

    Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) has been associated with graft-infiltrating B cells, although their characteristics are still unclear. In this study we examined the frequency, localization and reactivity profile of graft-infiltrating B cells to determine their contribution to the pathophysiology of CAV. B cells, plasma cells and macrophages were examined by immunohistochemistry in 56 allografts with CAV, 49 native failed hearts and 25 autopsy specimens. A total of 102 B-cell clones were immortalized directly from the infiltrates of 3 fresh cardiac samples with CAV. Their secreted antibodies were assessed using enzyme-linked immunoassay and flow cytometry. B-cell infiltration was observed around coronary arteries in 93% of allograft explants with CAV. Comparatively, intragraft B cells were less frequent and less dense in the intraventricular myocardium from where routine biopsies are obtained. Plasma cells and macrophages were also detected in 85% and 95% of explants, respectively. Remarkably, B-cell infiltrates were not associated with circulating donor-specific antibodies (DSA) or prior episodes of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). Among all B-cell clones generated from 3 explants with CAV, a majority secreted natural antibodies reactive to multiple autoantigens and apoptotic cells, a characteristic of innate B cells. Our study reveals a high frequency of infiltrating B cells around the coronary arteries of allografts with CAV, independent of DSA or AMR. These cells are enriched for innate B cells with a polyreactive profile. The findings shift the focus from conventional DSA-producing B cells to the potentially pathogenic polyreactive B cells in the development of clinical CAV. Copyright © 2018 International Society for the Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Effect of local wound infiltration with ropivacaine on postoperative pain relief and stress response reduction after open hepatectomy.

    PubMed

    Sun, Jing-Xian; Bai, Ke-Yun; Liu, Yan-Feng; Du, Gang; Fu, Zhi-Hao; Zhang, Hao; Yang, Jin-Huan; Wang, Ben; Wang, Xiu-Yu; Jin, Bin

    2017-09-28

    To prospectively evaluate the effect of local wound infiltration with ropivacaine on postoperative pain relief and stress response reduction after open hepatectomy. A total of 56 patients undergoing open hepatectomy were randomly divided into two groups: a ropivacaine group (wound infiltration with ropivacaine solution) and a control group (infiltration with isotonic saline solution). A visual analog scale (VAS) at rest and on movement was used to measure postoperative pain for the first 48 h after surgery. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), time to bowel recovery, length of hospitalization after surgery, cumulative sufentanil consumption, and incidence of nausea and vomiting were compared between the two groups. Surgical stress hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the results were compared. VAS scores both at rest and on movement at 24 h and 48 h were similar between the two groups. Significantly lower VAS scores were detected at 0, 6, and 12 h in the ropivacaine group compared with the control group ( P < 0.05 for all). MAP was significantly lower at 6, 12, and 24 h ( P < 0.05 for all); HR was significantly lower at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h ( P < 0.05 for all); time to bowel recovery and length of hospitalization after surgery ( P < 0.05 for both) were significantly shortened; and cumulative sufentanil consumption was significantly lower at 6, 12, 24, and 36 h ( P < 0.05 for all) in the ropivacaine group than in the control group, although the incidence of nausea and vomiting showed no significant difference between the two groups. The levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol were significantly lower in the ropivacaine group than in the control group at 24 and 48 h ( P < 0.01 for all). Local wound infiltration with ropivacaine after open hepatectomy can improve postoperative pain relief, reduce surgical stress response, and accelerate postoperative recovery.

  3. Alteration of natural (37)Ar activity concentration in the subsurface by gas transport and water infiltration.

    PubMed

    Guillon, Sophie; Sun, Yunwei; Purtschert, Roland; Raghoo, Lauren; Pili, Eric; Carrigan, Charles R

    2016-05-01

    High (37)Ar activity concentration in soil gas is proposed as a key evidence for the detection of underground nuclear explosion by the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty. However, such a detection is challenged by the natural background of (37)Ar in the subsurface, mainly due to Ca activation by cosmic rays. A better understanding and improved capability to predict (37)Ar activity concentration in the subsurface and its spatial and temporal variability is thus required. A numerical model integrating (37)Ar production and transport in the subsurface is developed, including variable soil water content and water infiltration at the surface. A parameterized equation for (37)Ar production in the first 15 m below the surface is studied, taking into account the major production reactions and the moderation effect of soil water content. Using sensitivity analysis and uncertainty quantification, a realistic and comprehensive probability distribution of natural (37)Ar activity concentrations in soil gas is proposed, including the effects of water infiltration. Site location and soil composition are identified as the parameters allowing for a most effective reduction of the possible range of (37)Ar activity concentrations. The influence of soil water content on (37)Ar production is shown to be negligible to first order, while (37)Ar activity concentration in soil gas and its temporal variability appear to be strongly influenced by transient water infiltration events. These results will be used as a basis for practical CTBTO concepts of operation during an OSI. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Intratesticular and incisional line infiltration with ropivacaine for castration in medetomidine-butorphanol-midazolam sedated dogs.

    PubMed

    Kushnir, Yishai; Toledano, Noa; Cohen, Liat; Bdolah-Abram, Tali; Shilo-Benjamini, Yael

    2017-03-01

    To evaluate whether intratesticular and incisional ropivacaine infiltration produces sufficient intra- and postoperative analgesia for castrating dogs under sedation. Randomized, blinded, controlled clinical study. Twenty-three healthy dogs weighing 5.8-35.6 kg admitted for castration. Dogs were sedated with medetomidine (0.01 mg kg -1 ), butorphanol (0.2 mg kg -1 ) and midazolam (0.2 mg kg -1 ) intramuscularly, and were randomly assigned to group R, 0.2-0.4 mL kg -1 of ropivacaine 0.5%, or group S, an equivalent volume of saline injected intratesticularly and along the incision line. If persistent motion was observed during surgery, sedation was considered to be insufficient and general anaesthesia was induced. Carprofen 2.2 mg kg -1 was administered postoperatively. Pain was evaluated in all dogs before sedation and postoperatively following atipamezole administration at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 24 hours using an interactive visual analogue scale (IVAS; 0-100), the Glasgow composite pain scale-short form (CMPS-SF; 0-24), and a mechanical algometer. Methadone 0.3 mg kg -1 was administered intravenously to dogs if IVAS >30 or CMPS-SF >4. There was no significant difference between groups for the number of dogs administered general anaesthesia. The time from the beginning of surgery to induction of general anaesthesia was significantly shorter [median (range)] in group S [6 (3-25) minutes] than in group R [56 (36-76) minutes]. At 8 hours IVAS was significantly higher in group S (14 ± 10) than in group R (6 ± 4). Intratesticular and incisional ropivacaine infiltration delayed the time to anaesthesia induction, and provided analgesia after castration performed under deep sedation in dogs. Intratesticular local anaesthesia can be an important part of the anaesthetic plan for castration. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Derangements of liver tissue bioenergetics in concanavalin A-induced hepatitis.

    PubMed

    Al-Shamsi, Mariam; Shahin, Allen; Mensah-Brown, Eric P K; Souid, Abdul-Kader

    2013-01-12

    A novel in vitro system was employed to investigate liver tissue respiration (mitochondrial O2 consumption) in mice treated with concanavalin A (Con A). This study aimed to investigate hepatocyte bioenergetics in this well-studied hepatitis model. C57Bl/6 and C57Bl/6 IFN-γ-/- mice were injected intravenously with 12 mg ConA/kg. Liver specimens were collected at various timepoints after injection and analyzed for cellular respiration and caspase activation. Serum was analyzed for interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and aminotransferases. Fluorescence activated cell sorting analysis was used to determine the phenotype of infiltrating cells, and light and electron microscopy were used to monitor morphological changes. Phosphorescence analyzer that measured dissolved O2 as function of time was used to evaluate respiration. In sealed vials, O2 concentrations in solutions containing liver specimen and glucose declined linearly with time, confirming zero-order kinetics of hepatocyte respiration. O2 consumption was inhibited by cyanide, confirming the oxidation occurred in the respiratory chain. Enhanced liver respiration (by ≈68%, p<0.02) was noted 3 hr after ConA treatment, and occurred in conjunction with limited cellular infiltrations around the blood vessels. Diminished respiration (by ≈30%, p=0.005) was noted 12 hr after ConA treatment, and occurred in conjunction with deranged mitochondria, areas of necrosis, and prominent infiltrations with immune cells, most significantly, CD3+NKT+ cells. Increases in intracellular caspase activity and serum IFN-γ and aminotransferase levels were noted 3 hr after ConA treatment and progressed with time. The above-noted changes were less pronounced in C57Bl/6 IFN-γ-/- mice treated with ConA. Based on these results, liver tissue bioenergetics is increased 3 hr after ConA exposure. This effect is driven by the pathogenesis of the disease, in which IFN-γ and other cytokines contribute to. Subsequent declines in liver bioenergetics appear to be a result of necrosis and active caspases targeting the mitochondria within hepatocytes.

  6. Blood-brain barrier permeability and monocyte infiltration in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis: a quantitative MRI study.

    PubMed

    Floris, S; Blezer, E L A; Schreibelt, G; Döpp, E; van der Pol, S M A; Schadee-Eestermans, I L; Nicolay, K; Dijkstra, C D; de Vries, H E

    2004-03-01

    Enhanced cerebrovascular permeability and cellular infiltration mark the onset of early multiple sclerosis lesions. So far, the precise sequence of these events and their role in lesion formation and disease progression remain unknown. Here we provide quantitative evidence that blood-brain barrier leakage is an early event and precedes massive cellular infiltration in the development of acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal correlate of multiple sclerosis. Cerebrovascular leakage and monocytes infiltrates were separately monitored by quantitative in vivo MRI during the course of the disease. Magnetic resonance enhancement of the contrast agent gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (Gd-DTPA), reflecting vascular leakage, occurred concomitantly with the onset of neurological signs and was already at a maximal level at this stage of the disease. Immunohistochemical analysis also confirmed the presence of the serum-derived proteins such as fibrinogen around the brain vessels early in the disease, whereas no cellular infiltrates could be detected. MRI further demonstrated that Gd-DTPA leakage clearly preceded monocyte infiltration as imaged by the contrast agent based on ultra small particles of iron oxide (USPIO), which was maximal only during full-blown EAE. Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical investigation revealed that USPIOs were present in newly infiltrated macrophages within the inflammatory lesions. To validate the use of USPIOs as a non-invasive tool to evaluate therapeutic strategies, EAE animals were treated with the immunomodulator 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme A reductase inhibitor, lovastatin, which ameliorated clinical scores. MRI showed that the USPIO load in the brain was significantly diminished in lovastatin-treated animals. Data indicate that cerebrovascular leakage and monocytic trafficking into the brain are two distinct processes in the development of inflammatory lesions during multiple sclerosis, which can be monitored on-line with MRI using USPIOs and Gd-DTPA as contrast agents. These studies also implicate that USPIOs are a valuable tool to visualize monocyte infiltration in vivo and quantitatively assess the efficacy of new therapeutics like lovastatin.

  7. [Influence of dendritic cell infiltration on prognosis and biologic characteristics of progressing gastric cancer].

    PubMed

    Huang, Hai-li; Wu, Ben-yan; You, Wei-di; Shen, Ming-shi; Wang, Wen-ju

    2003-09-01

    To study the relation between dendritic cell (DC) infiltration and clinicopathologic parameters, biologic characteristics and prognosis of progressing gastric cancer. The development of apoptotic cell death (apoptotic index, AI) in 61 progressing gastric carcinoma tissues was analyzed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method. The PCNA labeling index (PCNA-LI), density of dendritic cells in the tumor were detected by immunohistochemical method by the LSAB kit using antibody against S-100 protein and PC-10. DC infiltration was negatively correlated with lymph node metastasis, clinical stage and PCNA-LI, but positively with AI. The DCs in gastric cancer groups with and without lymph node metastasis were (5.63 +/- 4.37)/HPF and (8.51 +/- 5.57)/HPF with difference significant (P < 0.05). The DC infiltration in I, II, III stage lesions were (11.23 +/- 6.05)/HPF, (6.28 +/- 4.37)/HPF and (5.53 +/- 5.19)/HPF also with differences significant (P < 0.01). The PCNA-LI was significantly higher in the low DC group (57.10% +/- 14.18%) than that of high DC group (48.15% +/- 10.59%, P < 0.01). AI findings were 3.77% +/- 1.26% and 2.95% +/- 1.07% in the high and low DC groups (P < 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between DC infiltration and AI (r = 0.39, P < 0.01) whereas a negative correlation between DC infiltration and PCNA-LI (r = -0.47, P < 0.01). The prognosis of high DC infiltration patients was significantly better than those with low ones. The infiltrating dendritic cells in and around tumor, representing the local immune status of the host, may play an important role in immunological defense mechanism of host versus tumor. Dendritic cells may inhibit the proliferation and induce the apoptosis of the tumor cells, thus affecting the clinical features and improve the prognosis of gastric carcinoma.

  8. The impact of using an intravenous workflow management system (IVWMS) on cost and patient safety.

    PubMed

    Lin, Alex C; Deng, Yihong; Thaibah, Hilal; Hingl, John; Penm, Jonathan; Ivey, Marianne F; Thomas, Mark

    2018-07-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the financial costs associated with wasted and missing doses before and after the implementation of an intravenous workflow management system (IVWMS) and to quantify the number and the rate of detected intravenous (IV) preparation errors. A retrospective analysis of the sample hospital information system database was conducted using three months of data before and after the implementation of an IVWMS System (DoseEdge ® ) which uses barcode scanning and photographic technologies to track and verify each step of the preparation process. The financial impact associated with wasted and missing >IV doses was determined by combining drug acquisition, labor, accessory, and disposal costs. The intercepted error reports and pharmacist detected error reports were drawn from the IVWMS to quantify the number of errors by defined error categories. The total number of IV doses prepared before and after the implementation of the IVWMS system were 110,963 and 101,765 doses, respectively. The adoption of the IVWMS significantly reduced the amount of wasted and missing IV doses by 14,176 and 2268 doses, respectively (p < 0.001). The overall cost savings of using the system was $144,019 over 3 months. The total number of errors detected was 1160 (1.14%) after using the IVWMS. The implementation of the IVWMS facilitated workflow changes that led to a positive impact on cost and patient safety. The implementation of the IVWMS increased patient safety by enforcing standard operating procedures and bar code verifications. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  9. Studies on experimental pulmonary granulomas. I. Detection of lymphokines in granulomatous lesions.

    PubMed Central

    Masih, N.; Majeska, J.; Yoshida, T.

    1979-01-01

    Granulomatous reactions were immunologically induced in guinea pigs by several procedures, including intravenous injections of Bacille Calmette Gúerin (BCG) into animals immunized with complete Freund's Adjuvant and an intravenous injection of agarose beads linked to a specific antigen (dinitrophenylated bovine serum albumin) into immune animals. The tissue extracts obtained from lungs at various stages of granuloma formation were examined for macrophage migration inhibition (MIF) activity. The activity was found in a high incidence during the early stages of the granulomatous response. In contrast, MIF activity could be detected only rarely in granulomatous spleens and not in granulomatous livers. Chemotactic factor activity and mitogenic factor activity were only sporadically detectable. The MIF activity was associated with fractions showing chemical heterogeneity. One fraction was physicochemically indistinguishable from conventional lymphocyte-derived MIF; the other was a substance of large molecular weight. These results demonstrate the presence of biologically active mediators in immune granulomas, which may be related to early events involved in the induction or enhancement of such reactions. Images Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 1 Figure 4 PMID:377991

  10. The pharmacokinetics of methocarbamol and guaifenesin after single intravenous and multiple-dose oral administration of methocarbamol in the horse.

    PubMed

    Rumpler, M J; Colahan, P; Sams, R A

    2014-02-01

    A simple LC/MSMS method has been developed and fully validated to determine concentrations and characterize the concentration vs. time course of methocarbamol (MCBL) and guaifenesin (GGE) in plasma after a single intravenous dose and multiple oral dose administrations of MCBL to conditioned Thoroughbred horses. The plasma concentration-time profiles for MCBL after a single intravenous dose of 15 mg/kg of MCBL were best described by a three-compartment model. Mean extrapolated peak (C0 ) plasma concentrations were 23.2 (± 5.93) μg/mL. Terminal half-life, volume of distribution at steady-state, mean residence time, and systemic clearance were characterized by a median (range) of 2.96 (2.46-4.71) h, 1.05 (0.943-1.21) L/kg, 1.98 (1.45-2.51) h, and 8.99 (6.68-10.8) mL/min/kg, respectively. Oral dose of MCBL was characterized by a median (range) terminal half-life, mean transit time, mean absorption time, and apparent oral clearance of 2.89 (2.21-4.88) h, 2.67 (1.80-2.87) h, 0.410 (0.350-0.770) h, and 16.5 (13.0-20) mL/min/kg. Bioavailability of orally administered MCBL was characterized by a median (range) of 54.4 (43.2-72.8)%. Guaifenesin plasma concentrations were below the limit of detection in all samples collected after the single intravenous dose of MCBL whereas they were detected for up to 24 h after the last dose of the multiple-dose oral regimen. This difference may be attributed to first-pass metabolism of MCBL to GGE after oral administration and may provide a means of differentiating the two routes of administration. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  11. Contribution of serum IL-4 and IgE to the early prediction of allergic reactions induced by chlorogenic acid.

    PubMed

    Xiao, Gui Nan; Sun, Qing Ping; Chen, Hao An

    2013-01-15

    Chlorogenic acid (CA) is one of the active ingredients in some Chinese herbal injections, which may cause allergic reactions in clinic therapy. However, the criterion of test for allergen had not been employed in current Pharmacopeia of United States, European Pharmacopeia, Japanese Pharmacopeia and British Pharmacopeia. In order to find a new way to predict allergic reactions induced by CA earlier, the guinea pigs were sensitized successively by injecting CA intravenously once a day for three times, the results were compared that of Chinese Pharmacopeia by injecting CA intraperitoneally once every other day for three times, serum IL-4 and total IgE were detected by method of enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) before guinea pigs were challenged once by injecting the same drug intravenously. The time-effectiveness and dose-effect of allergic reactions induced by CA were also studied. We found that contents of serum IL-4 and total IgE increased significantly before guinea pigs were challenged, either in D8 after intravenous sensitization (1.5 g/l CA, 0.5 ml) or in D14 and D21 after intraperitoneal sensitization (1.5 g/l CA, 0.5 ml), and allergic reactions occurred in all guinea pigs after challenged once by injecting CA (1.5 g/l, 1.0 ml) intravenously. It provides a new way to predict whether CA (or Chinese herbal injections contained CA) can provoke allergic reactions by detecting serum IL-4 and total IgE earlier; the examination period is reduced by 1-2 weeks. It has a good prospect of application in drug emergency test. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. [Pharmacokinetics study of amoxicillin sodium clavulanate potassium (10:1) injection in healthy volunteers].

    PubMed

    Miao, Jia; Nan, Feng; Shen, Qi; Qin, Yong-Ping; Wang, Ying; Yu, Qin; Zheng, Li; Liang, Mao-Zhi

    2013-03-01

    To study the pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin sodium clavulanate potassium (10:1) injection with different single doses intravenous infusion and one dose repeated intravenous injection in healthy volunteers for guiding the rational clinical regimen. Using infusion pump constantly intravenous dripping in 30 min, 4 mL blood samples were collected before and after the administration at 10 min, 20 min, 30 min, 45 min, and 1, 1.25, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10 h. The plasma concentrations of amoxicillin and clavulanate were detected by high performance liquid chromatography- mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry method. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by DAS2.0.1 software. The dispositions of amoxicillin and clavulanate matched three or two compartment model with the weight coefficient 1/cc. To avoid the biases caused by compartment model fitting, the pharmacokinetic parameters were statistical moment parameters of non-compartment model. The peak concentrations, the areas under curve, the half-lifes and the clearances after single injections of 0. 55 g, 1.1 g and 2.2 g indicated that both amoxillin and clavulanate had linear dynamics characteristics. After 1.1 g single dose and multiple doses infusion, the pharmacokinetic parameters of amoxicillin and clavulanate were close respectively, and the trough concentrations before the 7th to 13th administration were lower than the detection limitation, which implied that the previous administration had cleared out before the next administration, and no accumulation happened after multiple doses. The amoxicillin sodium clavulanate potassium (10:1) injection possesses the linear kinetics. The dosage regimen of 1.1 g Q8h intravenous infusion could meet the needs of clinical therapy.

  13. Susceptibility of Pigs to Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 Isolated from a Wild Boar.

    PubMed

    Thiry, D; Rose, N; Mauroy, A; Paboeuf, F; Dams, L; Roels, S; Pavio, N; Thiry, E

    2017-10-01

    In Europe, zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 strains mainly circulate in humans, swine and wild boar. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential transmission of a wild boar originating HEV strain (WbHEV) to swine by intravenous or oral inoculation and to study the consequences of infection of a WbHEV strain, a WbHEV strain previously passaged in a pig and a swine HEV strain after oral inoculation. Firstly, an intravenous infection was performed for which five piglets were divided into two groups with three pigs inoculated with a WbHEV field strain and two pigs inoculated with a HEV-negative swine liver homogenate. All pigs were necropsied 8, 9 and 10 days post-inoculation. Secondly, an oral infection of 56 days was performed on 12 piglets divided into four groups inoculated with a WbHEV strain, a WbHEV strain previously passaged in swine, a swine HEV strain or a HEV-negative swine liver homogenate. After intravenous inoculation, HEV RNA was detected in serum, bile, liver, spleen, duodenum, jejunum, colon, lung, gastro-hepatic lymph nodes and faeces in all infected piglets. After oral inoculation, HEV RNA was detected in serum, bile, liver, gastro-hepatic lymph nodes and faeces. Most of HEV-inoculated pigs became seropositive at day 15. This study provides experimental evidence of early viral spread throughout the organism after intravenous infection with a WbHEV strain and supports the notion that such a zoonotic strain could be transmitted via the natural faecal-oral route of infection between wild boar and pigs but also between pigs. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  14. Inflammation and neuropathic attacks in hereditary brachial plexus neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Klein, C; Dyck, P; Friedenberg, S; Burns, T; Windebank, A; Dyck, P

    2002-01-01

    Objective: To study the role of mechanical, infectious, and inflammatory factors inducing neuropathic attacks in hereditary brachial plexus neuropathy (HBPN), an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by attacks of pain and weakness, atrophy, and sensory alterations of the shoulder girdle and upper limb muscles. Methods: Four patients from separate kindreds with HBPN were evaluated. Upper extremity nerve biopsies were obtained during attacks from a person of each kindred. In situ hybridisation for common viruses in nerve tissue and genetic testing for a hereditary tendency to pressure palsies (HNPP; tomaculous neuropathy) were undertaken. Two patients treated with intravenous methyl prednisolone had serial clinical and electrophysiological examinations. One patient was followed prospectively through pregnancy and during the development of a stereotypic attack after elective caesarean delivery. Results: Upper extremity nerve biopsies in two patients showed prominent perivascular inflammatory infiltrates with vessel wall disruption. Nerve in situ hybridisation for viruses was negative. There were no tomaculous nerve changes. In two patients intravenous methyl prednisolone ameliorated symptoms (largely pain), but with tapering of steroid dose, signs and symptoms worsened. Elective caesarean delivery did not prevent a typical postpartum attack. Conclusions: Inflammation, probably immune, appears pathogenic for some if not all attacks of HBPN. Immune modulation may be useful in preventing or reducing the neuropathic attacks, although controlled trials are needed to establish efficacy, as correction of the mutant gene is still not possible. The genes involved in immune regulation may be candidates for causing HBPN disorders. PMID:12082044

  15. Human intravenous immunoglobulin for experimental streptococcal toxic shock: bacterial clearance and modulation of inflammation.

    PubMed

    Sriskandan, Shiranee; Ferguson, Melissa; Elliot, Victoria; Faulkner, Lee; Cohen, Jonathan

    2006-07-01

    Polyclonal human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been advocated as an adjunct to therapy in severe invasive streptococcal toxic shock because of its ability to neutralize superantigen toxins. The aim of this study was to assess IVIG therapeutic efficacy in an experimental model of streptococcal toxic shock. To confirm the in vitro activity of IVIG against the Streptococcus pyogenes strain used in the study, IVIG was tested for superantigen neutralizing and bacterial opsonizing activity prior to in vivo studies. To evaluate the in vivo effects of IVIG in terms of microbiological outcome and disease severity in a superantigen-sensitive transgenic model of streptococcal shock, HLA-DQ transgenic mice were treated with IVIG either at the time of infection or after infection with S. pyogenes. Antibiotics were included in some studies. The IVIG preparation neutralized superantigenicity of S. pyogenes in vitro and enhanced bacterial killing in a whole blood assay. When given to mice at the time of S. pyogenes infection, IVIG neutralized circulating superantigens and reduced systemic inflammatory response. Remarkably, IVIG-enhanced systemic clearance of bacteria and enhanced neutrophil infiltrate into the infected tissues. However, when used in combination with penicillin and clindamycin in a delayed treatment setting, IVIG did not confer additional therapeutic benefit, in terms of inflammatory response, bacterial clearance or survival. IVIG monotherapy can confer benefit in experimental streptococcal shock, but extension of these findings to the clinical situation will require further evaluation.

  16. MHC class I, MHC class II and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in inflammatory myopathies.

    PubMed

    Bartoccioni, E; Gallucci, S; Scuderi, F; Ricci, E; Servidei, S; Broccolini, A; Tonali, P

    1994-01-01

    We investigated the relationship between the MHC-I, MHC-II and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression on myofibres and the presence of inflammatory cells in muscle specimens of 18 patients with inflammatory myopathies (nine polymyositis, seven dermatomyositis, two inclusion body myositis). We observed MHC-I expression in muscle fibres, infiltrating mononuclear cells and endothelial cells in every specimen. In seven patients, some muscle fibres were MHC-II-positive for the DR antigen, while the DP and DQ antigens were absent. ICAM-1 expression, detected in seven patients, was found in clusters of myofibres, associated with a marked MHC-I positivity and a widespread mononuclear infiltration. Most of the ICAM-1-positive fibres were regenerating fibres. Furthermore, some fibres expressed both ICAM-1 and DR antigens near infiltrating cells. This finding could support the hypothesis that myofibres may themselves be the site of autosensitization.

  17. Vγ9Vδ2 T cells and zoledronate mediate antitumor activity in an orthotopic mouse model of human chondrosarcoma.

    PubMed

    Sun, L; Li, Y; Jiang, Z; Zhang, J; Li, H; Li, B; Ye, Z

    2016-06-01

    Chondrosarcoma (CS) is a cartilaginous malignant neoplasm characterized by resistance to conventional adjuvant therapy. The prognosis of unresectable or metastatic CS is poor. Therefore, it is imperative to explore novel therapeutic approaches to improve the treatment efficacy for those CS patients. Emerging data has implicated the synergistic antitumor activity of zoledronate (ZOL) and Vγ9Vδ2 T cells. However, whether ZOL-stimulated Vγ9Vδ2 T cells could infiltrate bone sarcoma and inhibit tumor growth has not been thoroughly answered yet. In this study, Vγ9Vδ2 T cells from healthy donors and CS patients were expanded in the presence of ZOL (1 μM) and IL-2 (400 IU/ml). The antitumor activity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells to ZOL-pretreated human CS was examined both in vitro and in vivo. ZOL pretreatment substantially enhanced the cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells to SW1353 and primary CS cells. ZOL potentiated the migration and cytotoxicity of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells to SW1353 in dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, weekly intravenous ZOL followed by Vγ9Vδ2 T cells inhibited subcutaneous xenograft growth. Thus, Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were able to infiltrate bone tumor and significantly suppressed the development of orthotopic SW1353 xenografts. Altogether, the study raises the possibility of combining ZOL with Vγ9Vδ2 T cells for CS treatment.

  18. Homing to solid cancers: a vascular checkpoint in adoptive cell therapy using CAR T-cells.

    PubMed

    Ager, Ann; Watson, H Angharad; Wehenkel, Sophie C; Mohammed, Rebar N

    2016-04-15

    The success of adoptive T-cell therapies for the treatment of cancer patients depends on transferred T-lymphocytes finding and infiltrating cancerous tissues. For intravenously transferred T-cells, this means leaving the bloodstream (extravasation) from tumour blood vessels. In inflamed tissues, a key event in extravasation is the capture, rolling and arrest of T-cells inside blood vessels which precedes transmigration across the vessel wall and entry into tissues. This depends on co-ordinated signalling of selectins, integrins and chemokine receptors on T-cells by their respective ligands which are up-regulated on inflamed blood vessels. Clinical data and experimental studies in mice suggest that tumour blood vessels are anergic to inflammatory stimuli and the recruitment of cytotoxic CD8(+)T-lymphocytes is not very efficient. Interestingly, and somewhat counter-intuitively, anti-angiogenic therapy can promote CD8(+)T-cell infiltration of tumours and increase the efficacy of adoptive CD8(+)T-cell therapy. Rather than inhibit tumour angiogenesis, anti-angiogenic therapy 'normalizes' (matures) tumour blood vessels by promoting pericyte recruitment, increasing tumour blood vessel perfusion and sensitizing tumour blood vessels to inflammatory stimuli. A number of different approaches are currently being explored to increase recruitment by manipulating the expression of homing-associated molecules on T-cells and tumour blood vessels. Future studies should address whether these approaches improve the efficacy of adoptive T-cell therapies for solid, vascularized cancers in patients. © 2016 Authors; published by Portland Press Limited.

  19. Homing to solid cancers: a vascular checkpoint in adoptive cell therapy using CAR T-cells

    PubMed Central

    Ager, Ann; Watson, H. Angharad; Wehenkel, Sophie C.; Mohammed, Rebar N.

    2016-01-01

    The success of adoptive T-cell therapies for the treatment of cancer patients depends on transferred T-lymphocytes finding and infiltrating cancerous tissues. For intravenously transferred T-cells, this means leaving the bloodstream (extravasation) from tumour blood vessels. In inflamed tissues, a key event in extravasation is the capture, rolling and arrest of T-cells inside blood vessels which precedes transmigration across the vessel wall and entry into tissues. This depends on co-ordinated signalling of selectins, integrins and chemokine receptors on T-cells by their respective ligands which are up-regulated on inflamed blood vessels. Clinical data and experimental studies in mice suggest that tumour blood vessels are anergic to inflammatory stimuli and the recruitment of cytotoxic CD8+ T-lymphocytes is not very efficient. Interestingly, and somewhat counter-intuitively, anti-angiogenic therapy can promote CD8+ T-cell infiltration of tumours and increase the efficacy of adoptive CD8+ T-cell therapy. Rather than inhibit tumour angiogenesis, anti-angiogenic therapy ‘normalizes’ (matures) tumour blood vessels by promoting pericyte recruitment, increasing tumour blood vessel perfusion and sensitizing tumour blood vessels to inflammatory stimuli. A number of different approaches are currently being explored to increase recruitment by manipulating the expression of homing-associated molecules on T-cells and tumour blood vessels. Future studies should address whether these approaches improve the efficacy of adoptive T-cell therapies for solid, vascularized cancers in patients. PMID:27068943

  20. Synergistic anti-tumor effect of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored IL-2 and IL-12.

    PubMed

    Ji, Jianfei; Li, Jinhua; Holmes, Lillia M; Burgin, Kelly E; Yu, Xianzhong; Wagner, Thomas E; Wei, Yanzhang

    2004-07-01

    Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 12 (IL-12), and some other cytokines, play important roles in activating host immune responses against tumor growth. However, severe side effects caused by systemic high-dose administration of these cytokines limit their clinical application. In our previous study, local high doses of IL-2 were achieved by a GPI-anchoring technology; therefore, it will be interesting to know if this technology works for other cytokines. A fusion gene containing murine IL-12 and the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor signal sequence was generated and transfected into the murine melanoma tumor cell line B16F0 either alone or together with a vector encoding GPI-anchored IL-2. The GPI-anchored cytokine expression of the selected stable clones was assayed in vitro by ELISA and their anti-tumor effects were analyzed in vivo by tumor lymphocyte infiltration and tumor growth studies. GPI-anchored IL-12 was successfully expressed on the cell surface as indicated by FACS analysis and IL-12 ELISA assay. The GPI-anchored IL-12 enhanced lymphocyte infiltration and significantly inhibited tumor growth. More importantly, when GPI-anchored IL-12 and GPI-anchored IL-2 were co-delivered, a synergistic anti-tumor effect was observed in both subcutaneous and intravenous tumor models. GPI anchorage of cytokines represents a new approach to locally deliver high doses of cytokines without the severe adverse effects normally accompanied with systematic high-dose administration of these cytokines. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  1. Difference infiltrometer: a method to measure temporally variable infiltration rates during rainstorms

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Moody, John A.; Ebel, Brian A.

    2012-01-01

    We developed a difference infiltrometer to measure time series of non-steady infiltration rates during rainstorms at the point scale. The infiltrometer uses two, tipping bucket rain gages. One gage measures rainfall onto, and the other measures runoff from, a small circular plot about 0.5-m in diameter. The small size allows the infiltration rate to be computed as the difference of the cumulative rainfall and cumulative runoff without having to route water through a large plot. Difference infiltrometers were deployed in an area burned by the 2010 Fourmile Canyon Fire near Boulder, Colorado, USA, and data were collected during the summer of 2011. The difference infiltrometer demonstrated the capability to capture different magnitudes of infiltration rates and temporal variability associated with convective (high intensity, short duration) and cyclonic (low intensity, long duration) rainstorms. Data from the difference infiltrometer were used to estimate saturated hydraulic conductivity of soil affected by the heat from a wildfire. The difference infiltrometer is portable and can be deployed in rugged, steep terrain and does not require the transport of water, as many rainfall simulators require, because it uses natural rainfall. It can be used to assess infiltration models, determine runoff coefficients, identify rainfall depth or rainfall intensity thresholds to initiate runoff, estimate parameters for infiltration models, and compare remediation treatments on disturbed landscapes. The difference infiltrometer can be linked with other types of soil monitoring equipment in long-term studies for detecting temporal and spatial variability at multiple time scales and in nested designs where it can be linked to hillslope and basin-scale runoff responses.

  2. Gene-specific sex effects on eosinophil infiltration in leishmaniasis.

    PubMed

    Slapničková, Martina; Volkova, Valeriya; Čepičková, Marie; Kobets, Tatyana; Šíma, Matyáš; Svobodová, Milena; Demant, Peter; Lipoldová, Marie

    2016-01-01

    Sex influences susceptibility to many infectious diseases, including some manifestations of leishmaniasis. The disease is caused by parasites that enter to the skin and can spread to the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, bone marrow, and sometimes lungs. Parasites induce host defenses including cell infiltration, leading to protective or ineffective inflammation. These responses are often influenced by host genotype and sex. We analyzed the role of sex in the impact of specific gene loci on eosinophil infiltration and its functional relevance. We studied the genetic control of infiltration of eosinophils into the inguinal lymph nodes after 8 weeks of Leishmania major infection using mouse strains BALB/c, STS, and recombinant congenic strains CcS-1,-3,-4,-5,-7,-9,-11,-12,-15,-16,-18, and -20, each of which contains a different random set of 12.5% genes from the parental "donor" strain STS and 87.5% genes from the "background" strain BALB/c. Numbers of eosinophils were counted in hematoxylin-eosin-stained sections of the inguinal lymph nodes under a light microscope. Parasite load was determined using PCR-ELISA. The lymph nodes of resistant STS and susceptible BALB/c mice contained very low and intermediate numbers of eosinophils, respectively. Unexpectedly, eosinophil infiltration in strain CcS-9 exceeded that in BALB/c and STS and was higher in males than in females. We searched for genes controlling high eosinophil infiltration in CcS-9 mice by linkage analysis in F 2 hybrids between BALB/c and CcS-9 and detected four loci controlling eosinophil numbers. Lmr14 (chromosome 2) and Lmr25 (chromosome 5) operate independently from other genes (main effects). Lmr14 functions only in males, the effect of Lmr25 is sex independent. Lmr15 (chromosome 11) and Lmr26 (chromosome 9) operate in cooperation (non-additive interaction) with each other. This interaction was significant in males only, but sex-marker interaction was not significant. Eosinophil infiltration was positively correlated with parasite load in lymph nodes of F 2 hybrids in males, but not in females. We demonstrated a strong influence of sex on numbers of eosinophils in the lymph nodes after L. major infection and present the first identification of sex-dependent autosomal loci controlling eosinophilic infiltration. The positive correlation between eosinophil infiltration and parasite load in males suggests that this sex-dependent eosinophilic infiltration reflects ineffective inflammation.

  3. Glioma infiltration sign on high b-value diffusion-weighted imaging in gliomas and its prognostic value.

    PubMed

    Zeng, Qiang; Ling, Chenhan; Shi, Feina; Dong, Fei; Jiang, Biao; Zhang, Jianmin

    2018-03-01

    Glioma cells may infiltrate beyond the tumor margins revealed on conventional structural images. To investigate whether the presence of a glioma infiltration sign on high b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can predict the prognosis of gliomas. Retrospective cohort. Fifty-two patients with gliomas (14 WHO grade II; 13 WHO grade III; 25 WHO grade IV). 3.0T, including a T 1 -weighted contrast-enhanced (T 1 w-CE) sequence, contrast-enhanced T 2 -flair sequence, and a DWI sequence. T 1 w-CE images and contrast-enhanced T 2 -flair images were used for identifying the tumor region for enhancing and nonenhancing gliomas, respectively. The glioma infiltration sign was defined as the presence of a peritumoral abnormal high signal region on DWI map, which was adjacent to the tumor region and had higher signal than surrounding areas. This sign was assessed on a high b-value DWI map with b = 3000 s/mm 2 . For patients with glioma infiltration sign, DWI3000 max , DWI1000 max , ADC3000 min , and ADC1000 min were measured by drawing a region of interest over the peritumoral abnormal high signal region. Survival analysis was conducted by using Cox regression. Glioma infiltration sign was observed in 28 (53.8%) patients. The occurrence rate of this sign was 92.0% in grade IV gliomas, 30.8% in grade III gliomas, and 7.1% in grade II gliomas. The glioma infiltration sign could independently predict both the progression-free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.58 [3.19-23.03], P < 0.001) and overall survival (HR, 95% CI = 11.90 [3.41-41.55], P < 0.001) after adjustment. For patients with glioma infiltration sign, DWI3000 max (P = 0.005) and ADC3000 min (P = 0.008) were both independent predictors of overall survival after adjustment, while DWI1000 max and ADC1000 min were not. The glioma infiltration sign on high b-value DWI is an independent predictor of poor prognosis in glioma patients. High b-value DWI might be a convenient method to detect glioma infiltration. 3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  4. Intravenous pamidronate versus oral and intravenous clodronate in bone metastatic breast cancer: a randomized, open-label, non-inferiority Phase III trial.

    PubMed

    von Au, Alexandra; Milloth, Eva; Diel, Ingo; Stefanovic, Stefan; Hennigs, Andre; Wallwiener, Markus; Heil, Joerg; Golatta, Michael; Rom, Joachim; Sohn, Christof; Schneeweiss, Andreas; Schuetz, Florian; Domschke, Christoph

    2016-01-01

    Patients with metastasized breast cancer often suffer from discomfort caused by metastatic bone disease. Thus, osteoprotection is an important part of therapy in breast cancer metastasized to bone, and bisphosphonates (BPs) are a major therapeutic option. In this study, our objectives were to compare the side effects of oral versus intravenous BP treatment and to assess their clinical effectiveness. In this prospective randomized, open-label, non-inferiority trial, we enrolled breast cancer patients with at least one bone metastasis and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-2. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups: A, 60 mg pamidronate intravenously q3w; B-iv, 900 mg clodronate intravenously q3w; and B-o, 2,400 mg oral clodronate daily. Assessments were performed at baseline and every 3 months thereafter. Between 1995 and 1999, 321 patients with confirmed bone metastases from breast cancer were included in the study. At first follow-up, gastrointestinal (GI) tract side effects were most common, and adverse effects on the GI tract were more frequent in the oral treatment group (P=0.002 and P<0.001, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences among the treatment cohorts for other documented side effects (skin, serum electrolytes, urinary tract, immune system, and others). No significant differences in clinical effectiveness of BP treatment, as assessed by pain score, were detected among the groups; however, pathologic fractures were more effectively prevented by intravenous than oral BP administration (P=0.03). Noncompliance rates were similar among the study cohorts. We conclude that oral BP treatment is significantly associated with higher rates of adverse GI side effects. Additionally, our data indicate that intravenous BP administration is more effective than oral treatment in prevention of pathologic fractures; hence, oral administration should be considered with caution.

  5. Tracking of Short Distance Transport Pathways in Biological Tissues by Ultra-Small Nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Segmehl, Jana S.; Lauria, Alessandro; Keplinger, Tobias; Berg, John K.; Burgert, Ingo

    2018-03-01

    In this work, ultra-small europium-doped HfO2 nanoparticles were infiltrated into native wood and used as trackers for studying penetrability and diffusion pathways in the hierarchical wood structure. The high electron density, laser induced luminescence, and crystallinity of these particles allowed for a complementary detection of the particles in the cellular tissue. Confocal Raman microscopy and high-resolution synchrotron scanning wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) measurements were used to detect the infiltrated particles in the native wood cell walls. This approach allows for simultaneously obtaining chemical information of the probed biological tissue and the spatial distribution of the integrated particles. The in-depth information about particle distribution in the complex wood structure can be used for revealing transport pathways in plant tissues, but also for gaining better understanding of modification treatments of plant scaffolds aiming at novel functionalized materials.

  6. Influence of dose and route of administration on the outcome of infection with the virulent Neospora caninum isolate Nc-Spain7 in pregnant sheep at mid-gestation.

    PubMed

    Sánchez-Sánchez, Roberto; Ferre, Ignacio; Re, Michela; Regidor-Cerrillo, Javier; Blanco-Murcia, Javier; Ferrer, Luis Miguel; Navarro, Teresa; Pizarro Díaz, Manuel; González-Huecas, Marta; Tabanera, Enrique; Benavides, Julio; Ortega-Mora, Luis Miguel

    2018-05-08

    Experimental infections in pregnant sheep have been focused on studying the effect of the time of challenge on the outcome of N. caninum infection, whereas the impact of the dose and route of challenge has not been studied in depth. Therefore, clinical outcome, immune responses, parasite detection and burden, and lesion severity in placental tissues and foetal brains were investigated in 90-day-pregnant sheep inoculated intravenously with 10 5 (G1), 10 4 (G2), 10 3 (G3), or 10 2 (G4) tachyzoites or subcutaneously with 10 4 (G5) tachyzoites of the virulent Nc-Spain7 isolate and an uninfected group (G6). Comparing challenge doses, G1 was the only group that had 100% abortion. Likewise, IFNγ levels in G1 increased earlier than those in other intravenously infected groups, and IgG levels on day 21 post-infection (pi) were higher in G1 than those in other intravenously infected groups. Concerning vertical transmission, G1 shows a higher parasite burden in the foetal brain than did G2 and G3. Comparing routes of administration, no differences in foetal survival rate or parasite load in the foetal brain were found. Although G2 had higher IFNγ levels than G5 on day 10 pi, no differences were found in humoral immune responses. Because the outcome after intravenous infection with 10 5 tachyzoites was similar to that observed after intravenous infection with 10 6 tachyzoites used in a previous work (100% abortion and vertical transmission), we conclude that it may be reasonable to use 10 5 tachyzoites administered by the intravenous route in further experiments when assessing drugs or vaccine candidates.

  7. Errors in fluid therapy in medical wards.

    PubMed

    Mousavi, Maryam; Khalili, Hossein; Dashti-Khavidaki, Simin

    2012-04-01

    Intravenous fluid therapy remains an essential part of patients' care during hospitalization. There are only few studies that focused on fluid therapy in the hospitalized patients, and there is not any consensus statement about fluid therapy in patients who are hospitalized in medical wards. The aim of the present study was to assess intravenous fluid therapy status and related errors in the patients during the course of hospitalization in the infectious diseases wards of a referral teaching hospital. This study was conducted in the infectious diseases wards of Imam Khomeini Complex Hospital, Tehran, Iran. During a retrospective study, data related to intravenous fluid therapy were collected by two clinical pharmacists of infectious diseases from 2008 to 2010. Intravenous fluid therapy information including indication, type, volume and rate of fluid administration was recorded for each patient. An internal protocol for intravenous fluid therapy was designed based on literature review and available recommendations. The data related to patients' fluid therapy were compared with this protocol. The fluid therapy was considered appropriate if it was compatible with the protocol regarding indication of intravenous fluid therapy, type, electrolyte content and rate of fluid administration. Any mistake in the selection of fluid type, content, volume and rate of administration was considered as intravenous fluid therapy errors. Five hundred and ninety-six of medication errors were detected during the study period in the patients. Overall rate of fluid therapy errors was 1.3 numbers per patient during hospitalization. Errors in the rate of fluid administration (29.8%), incorrect fluid volume calculation (26.5%) and incorrect type of fluid selection (24.6%) were the most common types of errors. The patients' male sex, old age, baseline renal diseases, diabetes co-morbidity, and hospitalization due to endocarditis, HIV infection and sepsis are predisposing factors for the occurrence of fluid therapy errors in the patients. Our result showed that intravenous fluid therapy errors occurred commonly in the hospitalized patients especially in the medical wards. Improvement in knowledge and attention of health-care workers about these errors are essential for preventing of medication errors in aspect of fluid therapy.

  8. A novel mouse xenotransplantation model of EBV-T/NK-LPD and the application of the mouse model.

    PubMed

    Imadome, Ken-Ichi

    2013-01-01

    Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection (CAEBV), characterized by proliferation of EBV-infected T or NK cells, is a disease of unknown pathogenesis and requires hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for curative treatment. Here we show that intravenous injection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from patients with CAEBV to NOD/Shi-scid/IL-2R γ(null) (NOG) mice leads to engraftment of EBV-infected T or NK cells. Analysis of TCR repertoire identified an identical predominant EBV-infected T-cell clone both in a patient and a mouse transplanted with his PBMCs. EBV-infected T or NK cells infiltrated to most major organs including the liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys, adrenal glands, and intestine, showing histological characteristics of CAEBV. Expression of EBNA1, LMP1, and LMP2A, but not EBNA2, in these cells indicated the latency II program of EBV gene characteristic to CAEBV. High levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and RANTES were detected in the peripheral blood of these mice. EBV-containing fractions of either CD8(+), γδT, or NK cell lineages failed to engraft, once they were isolated from PBMCs ; they could engraft only when CD4(+) cell fraction was transplanted in parallel. Isolated EBV-containing CD4(+) T cells, in contrast, did engraft on their own. This is the first report of an animal model of CAEBV and suggest that EBV-infected T or NK cells in CAEBV are not truly neoplastic but are dependent on CD4(+) T cells for their proliferation in vivo.

  9. Propofol Attenuates Airway Inflammation in a Mast Cell-Dependent Mouse Model of Allergic Asthma by Inhibiting the Toll-like Receptor 4/Reactive Oxygen Species/Nuclear Factor κB Signaling Pathway.

    PubMed

    Li, Hong-Yi; Meng, Jing-Xia; Liu, Zhen; Liu, Xiao-Wen; Huang, Yu-Guang; Zhao, Jing

    2018-06-01

    Propofol, an intravenous anesthetic agent widely used in clinical practice, is the preferred anesthetic for asthmatic patients. This study was designed to determine the protective effect and underlying mechanisms of propofol on airway inflammation in a mast cell-dependent mouse model of allergic asthma. Mice were sensitized by ovalbumin (OVA) without alum and challenged with OVA three times. Propofol was given intraperitoneally 0.5 h prior to OVA challenge. The inflammatory cell count and production of cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected. The changes of lung histology and key molecules of the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/reactive oxygen species (ROS)/NF-κB signaling pathway were also measured. The results showed that propofol significantly decreased the number of eosinophils and the levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α in BALF. Furthermore, propofol significantly attenuated airway inflammation, as characterized by fewer infiltrating inflammatory cells and decreased mucus production and goblet cell hyperplasia. Meanwhile, the expression of TLR4, and its downstream signaling adaptor molecules--myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and NF-κB, were inhibited by propofol. The hydrogen peroxide and methane dicarboxylic aldehyde levels were decreased by propofol, and the superoxide dismutase activity was increased in propofol treatment group. These findings indicate that propofol may attenuate airway inflammation by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway in a mast cell-dependent mouse model of allergic asthma.

  10. Histopathological examination of nerve samples from pure neural leprosy patients: obtaining maximum information to improve diagnostic efficiency.

    PubMed

    Antunes, Sérgio Luiz Gomes; Chimelli, Leila; Jardim, Márcia Rodrigues; Vital, Robson Teixeira; Nery, José Augusto da Costa; Corte-Real, Suzana; Hacker, Mariana Andréa Vilas Boas; Sarno, Euzenir Nunes

    2012-03-01

    Nerve biopsy examination is an important auxiliary procedure for diagnosing pure neural leprosy (PNL). When acid-fast bacilli (AFB) are not detected in the nerve sample, the value of other nonspecific histological alterations should be considered along with pertinent clinical, electroneuromyographical and laboratory data (the detection of Mycobacterium leprae DNA with polymerase chain reaction and the detection of serum anti-phenolic glycolipid 1 antibodies) to support a possible or probable PNL diagnosis. Three hundred forty nerve samples [144 from PNL patients and 196 from patients with non-leprosy peripheral neuropathies (NLN)] were examined. Both AFB-negative and AFB-positive PNL samples had more frequent histopathological alterations (epithelioid granulomas, mononuclear infiltrates, fibrosis, perineurial and subperineurial oedema and decreased numbers of myelinated fibres) than the NLN group. Multivariate analysis revealed that independently, mononuclear infiltrate and perineurial fibrosis were more common in the PNL group and were able to correctly classify AFB-negative PNL samples. These results indicate that even in the absence of AFB, these histopathological nerve alterations may justify a PNL diagnosis when observed in conjunction with pertinent clinical, epidemiological and laboratory data.

  11. Surgical treatment of infective endocarditis in active intravenous drug users: a justified procedure?

    PubMed

    Weymann, Alexander; Borst, Tobias; Popov, Aron-Frederik; Sabashnikov, Anton; Bowles, Christopher; Schmack, Bastian; Veres, Gabor; Chaimow, Nicole; Simon, Andre Rüdiger; Karck, Matthias; Szabo, Gábor

    2014-03-24

    Infective endocarditis is a life threatening complication of intravenous drug abuse, which continues to be a major burden with inadequately characterised long-term outcomes. We reviewed our institutional experience of surgical treatment of infective endocarditis in active intravenous drug abusers with the aim of identifying the determinants long-term outcome of this distinct subgroup of infective endocarditis patients. A total of 451 patients underwent surgery for infective endocarditis between January 1993 and July 2013 at the University Hospital of Heidelberg. Of these patients, 20 (7 female, mean age 35 ± 7.7 years) underwent surgery for infective endocarditis with a history of active intravenous drug abuse. Mean follow-up was 2504 ± 1842 days. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen detected in preoperative blood cultures. Two patients (10%) died before postoperative day 30. Survival at 1, 5 and 10 years was 90%, 85% and 85%, respectively. Freedom from reoperation was 100%. Higher NYHA functional class, higher EuroSCORE II, HIV infection, longer operating time, postoperative fever and higher requirement for red blood cell transfusion were associated with 90-day mortality. In active intravenous drug abusers, surgical treatment for infective endocarditis should be performed as extensively as possible and be followed by an aggressive postoperative antibiotic therapy to avoid high mortality. Early surgical intervention is advisable in patients with precipitous cardiac deterioration and under conditions of staphylococcal endocarditis. However, larger studies are necessary to confirm our preliminary results.

  12. Characterization of invisible breast cancers in digital mammography and tomosynthesis: radio-pathological correlation.

    PubMed

    Aguilar Angulo, P M; Romero Castellano, C; Ruiz Martín, J; Sánchez-Camacho González-Carrato, M P; Cruz Hernández, L M

    To review the radio-pathologic features of symptomatic breast cancers not detected at digital mammography (DM) and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). Retrospective analysis of 169 lesions from symptomatic patients with breast cancer that were studied with DM, DBT, ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance (MR). We identified occult lesions (true false negatives) in DM and DBT. Clinical data, density, US and MR findings were analyzed as well as histopathological results. We identified seven occult lesions in DM and DBT. 57% (4/7) of the lesions were identified in high-density breasts (type c and d), and the rest of them in breasts of density type b. Six carcinomas were identified at US and MR (BI-RADS 4 masses); the remaining lesion was only identified at MR. The tumor size was larger than 3cm at MRI in 57% of the lesions. All tumors were ductal infiltrating carcinomas, six of them with high stromal proportion. According to molecular classification, we found only one triple-negative breast cancer, the other lesions were luminal-type. We analyzed the tumor margins of two resected carcinomas that were not treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, both lesions presented margins that displaced the adjacent parenchyma without infiltrating it. Occult breast carcinomas in DM and DBT accounted for 4% of lesions detected in patients with symptoms. They were mostly masses, all of them presented the diagnosis of infiltrating ductal carcinoma (with predominance of the luminal immunophenotype) and were detected in breasts of density type b, c and d. Copyright © 2017 SERAM. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  13. Muscle MRS detects elevated PDE/ATP ratios prior to fatty infiltration in Becker muscular dystrophy.

    PubMed

    Wokke, B H; Hooijmans, M T; van den Bergen, J C; Webb, A G; Verschuuren, J J; Kan, H E

    2014-11-01

    Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is characterized by progressive muscle weakness. Muscles show structural changes (fatty infiltration, fibrosis) and metabolic changes, both of which can be assessed using MRI and MRS. It is unknown at what stage of the disease process metabolic changes arise and how this might vary for different metabolites. In this study we assessed metabolic changes in skeletal muscles of Becker patients, both with and without fatty infiltration, quantified via Dixon MRI and (31) P MRS. MRI and (31) P MRS scans were obtained from 25 Becker patients and 14 healthy controls using a 7 T MR scanner. Five lower-leg muscles were individually assessed for fat and muscle metabolite levels. In the peroneus, soleus and anterior tibialis muscles with non-increased fat levels, PDE/ATP ratios were higher (P < 0.02) compared with controls, whereas in all muscles with increased fat levels PDE/ATP ratios were higher compared with healthy controls (P ≤ 0.05). The Pi /ATP ratio in the peroneus muscles was higher in muscles with increased fat fractions (P = 0.005), and the PCr/ATP ratio was lower in the anterior tibialis muscles with increased fat fractions (P = 0.005). There were no other significant changes in metabolites, but an increase in tissue pH was found in all muscles of the total group of BMD patients in comparison with healthy controls (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that (31) P MRS can be used to detect early changes in individual muscles of BMD patients, which are present before the onset of fatty infiltration. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  14. Infiltrated Macrophages Die of Pneumolysin-Mediated Necroptosis following Pneumococcal Myocardial Invasion.

    PubMed

    Gilley, Ryan P; González-Juarbe, Norberto; Shenoy, Anukul T; Reyes, Luis F; Dube, Peter H; Restrepo, Marcos I; Orihuela, Carlos J

    2016-05-01

    Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) is capable of invading the heart. Herein we observed that pneumococcal invasion of the myocardium occurred soon after development of bacteremia and was continuous thereafter. Using immunofluorescence microscopy (IFM), we observed that S. pneumoniae replication within the heart preceded visual signs of tissue damage in cardiac tissue sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Different S. pneumoniae strains caused distinct cardiac pathologies: strain TIGR4, a serotype 4 isolate, caused discrete pneumococcus-filled microscopic lesions (microlesions), whereas strain D39, a serotype 2 isolate, was, in most instances, detectable only using IFM and was associated with foci of cardiomyocyte hydropic degeneration and immune cell infiltration. Both strains efficiently invaded the myocardium, but cardiac damage was entirely dependent on the pore-forming toxin pneumolysin only for D39. Early microlesions caused by TIGR4 and microlesions formed by a TIGR4 pneumolysin-deficient mutant were infiltrated with CD11b(+) and Ly6G-positive neutrophils and CD11b(+) and F4/80-positive (F4/80(+)) macrophages. We subsequently demonstrated that macrophages in TIGR4-infected hearts died as a result of pneumolysin-induced necroptosis. The effector of necroptosis, phosphorylated mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), was detected in CD11b(+) and F4/80(+) cells associated with microlesions. Likewise, treatment of infected mice and THP-1 macrophages in vitro with the receptor-interacting protein 1 kinase (RIP1) inhibitor necrostatin-5 promoted the formation of purulent microlesions and blocked cell death, respectively. We conclude that pneumococci that have invaded the myocardium are an important cause of cardiac damage, pneumolysin contributes to cardiac damage in a bacterial strain-specific manner, and pneumolysin kills infiltrated macrophages via necroptosis, which alters the immune response. Copyright © 2016, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  15. Infiltrated Macrophages Die of Pneumolysin-Mediated Necroptosis following Pneumococcal Myocardial Invasion

    PubMed Central

    Gilley, Ryan P.; González-Juarbe, Norberto; Shenoy, Anukul T.; Reyes, Luis F.; Dube, Peter H.; Restrepo, Marcos I.

    2016-01-01

    Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) is capable of invading the heart. Herein we observed that pneumococcal invasion of the myocardium occurred soon after development of bacteremia and was continuous thereafter. Using immunofluorescence microscopy (IFM), we observed that S. pneumoniae replication within the heart preceded visual signs of tissue damage in cardiac tissue sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Different S. pneumoniae strains caused distinct cardiac pathologies: strain TIGR4, a serotype 4 isolate, caused discrete pneumococcus-filled microscopic lesions (microlesions), whereas strain D39, a serotype 2 isolate, was, in most instances, detectable only using IFM and was associated with foci of cardiomyocyte hydropic degeneration and immune cell infiltration. Both strains efficiently invaded the myocardium, but cardiac damage was entirely dependent on the pore-forming toxin pneumolysin only for D39. Early microlesions caused by TIGR4 and microlesions formed by a TIGR4 pneumolysin-deficient mutant were infiltrated with CD11b+ and Ly6G-positive neutrophils and CD11b+ and F4/80-positive (F4/80+) macrophages. We subsequently demonstrated that macrophages in TIGR4-infected hearts died as a result of pneumolysin-induced necroptosis. The effector of necroptosis, phosphorylated mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), was detected in CD11b+ and F4/80+ cells associated with microlesions. Likewise, treatment of infected mice and THP-1 macrophages in vitro with the receptor-interacting protein 1 kinase (RIP1) inhibitor necrostatin-5 promoted the formation of purulent microlesions and blocked cell death, respectively. We conclude that pneumococci that have invaded the myocardium are an important cause of cardiac damage, pneumolysin contributes to cardiac damage in a bacterial strain-specific manner, and pneumolysin kills infiltrated macrophages via necroptosis, which alters the immune response. PMID:26930705

  16. Modulation of interferon-induced genes by lipoxin analogue in anti-glomerular basement membrane nephritis.

    PubMed

    Ohse, Takamoto; Ota, Tatsuru; Kieran, Niamh; Godson, Catherine; Yamada, Koei; Tanaka, Tetsuhiro; Fujita, Toshiro; Nangaku, Masaomi

    2004-04-01

    Immune complex deposition is associated with the accumulation of neutrophils, which play an important role in the various immune-mediated diseases. A novel anti-inflammatory agent, the lipoxin A (LXA) analogue (15-epi-16-(FPhO)-LXA-Me)), a stable synthetic analogue of aspirin-triggered 15-epi-lipoxin A4 (ATLa), was used in experimental anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibody nephritis in mice. ATLa was administered before the induction of the disease, and 2 h later, the animals were killed. ATLa reduced the infiltrating neutrophils and nitrotyrosine staining in glomeruli. Subsequent changes of gene expression in the early phase were evaluated, and 5674 genes were present under the basal conditions in kidneys from normal mice; 54 upregulated genes and 25 downregulated genes were detected in anti-GBM nephritis. Eighteen of these upregulated genes were those induced by IFN-gamma. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis confirmed the results of the microarrays. To investigate a role of IFN-gamma in neutrophil infiltration, anti-GBM nephritis was induced in IFN-gamma knockout mice. The number of infiltrating neutrophils in these mice did not differ from those in wild-type mice. Also examined were CD11b expression on neutrophils from mice treated with ATLa by flow cytometry, but suppression of this adhesion molecule was not observed. Neutrophil infiltration was successfully inhibited by ATLa in the early phase of murine anti-GBM nephritis. Microarray analysis detected the change of mRNA expression in anti-GBM nephritis and demonstrated amelioration of various genes by ATLa, which may provide a clue to the development of novel therapeutic approaches in immune renal injury.

  17. Intraperitoneal but not intravenous cryopreserved mesenchymal stromal cells home to the inflamed colon and ameliorate experimental colitis.

    PubMed

    Castelo-Branco, Morgana T L; Soares, Igor D P; Lopes, Daiana V; Buongusto, Fernanda; Martinusso, Cesonia A; do Rosario, Alyson; Souza, Sergio A L; Gutfilen, Bianca; Fonseca, Lea Mirian B; Elia, Celeste; Madi, Kalil; Schanaider, Alberto; Rossi, Maria Isabel D; Souza, Heitor S P

    2012-01-01

    Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were shown to have immunomodulatory activity and have been applied for treating immune-mediated disorders. We compared the homing and therapeutic action of cryopreserved subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT-MSCs) and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) in rats with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis. After colonoscopic detection of inflammation AT-MSCs or BM-MSCs were injected intraperitoneally. Colonoscopic and histologic scores were obtained. Density of collagen fibres and apoptotic rates were evaluated. Cytokine levels were measured in supernatants of colon explants. For cell migration studies MSCs and skin fibroblasts were labelled with Tc-99m or CM-DiI and injected intraperitonealy or intravenously. Intraperitoneal injection of AT-MSCs or BM-MSCs reduced the endoscopic and histopathologic severity of colitis, the collagen deposition, and the epithelial apoptosis. Levels of TNF-α and interleukin-1β decreased, while VEGF and TGF-β did not change following cell-therapy. Scintigraphy showed that MSCs migrated towards the inflamed colon and the uptake increased from 0.5 to 24 h. Tc-99m-MSCs injected intravenously distributed into various organs, but not the colon. Cm-DiI-positive MSCs were detected throughout the colon wall 72 h after inoculation, predominantly in the submucosa and muscular layer of inflamed areas. Intraperitoneally injected cryopreserved MSCs home to and engraft into the inflamed colon and ameliorate TNBS-colitis.

  18. Treatment with gelsolin reduces brain inflammation and apoptotic signaling in mice following thermal injury.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Qing-Hong; Chen, Qi; Kang, Jia-Rui; Liu, Chen; Dong, Ning; Zhu, Xiao-Mei; Sheng, Zhi-Yong; Yao, Yong-Ming

    2011-09-21

    Burn survivors develop long-term cognitive impairment with increased inflammation and apoptosis in the brain. Gelsolin, an actin-binding protein with capping and severing activities, plays a crucial role in the septic response. We investigated if gelsolin infusion could attenuate neural damage in burned mice. Mice with 15% total body surface area burns were injected intravenously with bovine serum albumin as placebo (2 mg/kg), or with low (2 mg/kg) or high doses (20 mg/kg) of gelsolin. Samples were harvested at 8, 24, 48 and 72 hours postburn. The immune function of splenic T cells was analyzed. Cerebral pathology was examined by hematoxylin/eosin staining, while activated glial cells and infiltrating leukocytes were detected by immunohistochemistry. Cerebral cytokine mRNAs were further assessed by quantitative real-time PCR, while apoptosis was evaluated by caspase-3. Neural damage was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and soluble protein-100 (S-100). Finally, cerebral phospho-ERK expression was measured by western blot. Gelsolin significantly improved the outcomes of mice following major burns in a dose-dependent manner. The survival rate was improved by high dose gelsolin treatment compared with the placebo group (56.67% vs. 30%). Although there was no significant improvement in outcome in mice receiving low dose gelsolin (30%), survival time was prolonged against the placebo control (43.1 ± 4.5 h vs. 35.5 ± 5.0 h; P < 0.05). Burn-induced T cell suppression was greatly alleviated by high dose gelsolin treatment. Concurrently, cerebral abnormalities were greatly ameliorated as shown by reduced NSE and S-100 content of brain, decreased cytokine mRNA expressions, suppressed microglial activation, and enhanced infiltration of CD11b+ and CD45+ cells into the brain. Furthermore, the elevated caspase-3 activity seen following burn injury was remarkably reduced by high dose gelsolin treatment along with down-regulation of phospho-ERK expression. Exogenous gelsolin infusion improves survival of mice following major burn injury by partially attenuating inflammation and apoptosis in brain, and by enhancing peripheral T lymphocyte function as well. These data suggest a novel and effective strategy to combat excessive neuroinflammation and to preserve cognition in the setting of major burns.

  19. Detection of semi-volatile organic compounds in permeable pavement infiltrate

    EPA Science Inventory

    Abstract The Edison Environmental Center (EEC) has a research and demonstration permeable parking lot comprised of three different permeable systems: permeable asphalt, porous concrete and interlocking concrete permeable pavers. Water quality and quantity analysis has been ongoin...

  20. Symptomatic cardiac amyloidosis in an American family

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

    Ruder, M.A.; Alpert, M.A.; Sanfelippo, J.F.

    1984-07-01

    This report describes an American family with a high incidence of symptomatic cardiac amyloidosis among four siblings, and explores the role of echocardiography and technetium pyrophosphate myocardial scintigraphy in the detection of this infiltrative cardiomyopathy within the involved family.

  1. MRI of retinoblastoma

    PubMed Central

    Razek, A A K A; Elkhamary, S

    2011-01-01

    We review the role of MRI in retinoblastoma and simulating lesions. Retinoblastoma is the most common paediatric intra-ocular tumour. It may be endophytic, exophytic or a diffuse infiltrating tumour. MRI can detect intra-ocular, extra-ocular and intracranial extension of the tumour. MRI is essential for monitoring patients after treatment and detection of associated second malignancies. It helps to differentiating the tumour from simulating lesions with leukocoria. PMID:21849363

  2. Analysis of monocyte infiltration in MPTP mice reveals that microglial CX3CR1 protects against neurotoxic over-induction of monocyte-attracting CCL2 by astrocytes.

    PubMed

    Parillaud, Vincent R; Lornet, Guillaume; Monnet, Yann; Privat, Anne-Laure; Haddad, Andrei T; Brochard, Vanessa; Bekaert, Amaury; de Chanville, Camille Baudesson; Hirsch, Etienne C; Combadière, Christophe; Hunot, Stéphane; Lobsiger, Christian S

    2017-03-21

    Evidence from mice suggests that brain infiltrating immune cells contribute to neurodegeneration, and we previously identified a deleterious lymphocyte infiltration in Parkinson's disease mice. However, this remains controversial for monocytes, due to artifact-prone techniques used to distinguish them from microglia. Our aim was to reassess this open question, by taking advantage of the recent recognition that chemokine receptors CCR2 and CX3CR1 can differentiate between inflammatory monocytes and microglia, enabling to test whether CCR2 + monocytes infiltrate the brain during dopaminergic (DA) neurodegeneration and whether they contribute to neuronal death. This revealed unexpected insights into possible regulation of monocyte-attracting CCL2 induction. We used acute 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mice and assessed monocyte infiltration by combining laser microdissection-guided chemokine RNA profiling of the substantia nigra (SN) with immunohistochemistry and CCR2-GFP reporter mice. To determine contribution to neuronal loss, we used CCR2-deletion and CCL2-overexpression, to reduce and increase CCR2 + monocyte infiltration, and CX3CR1-deletion to assess a potential implication in CCL2 regulation. Nigral chemokine profiling revealed early CCL2/7/12-CCR2 axis induction, suggesting monocyte infiltration in MPTP mice. CCL2 protein showed early peak induction in nigral astrocytes, while CCR2-GFP mice revealed early but limited nigral monocyte infiltration. However, blocking infiltration by CCR2 deletion did not influence DA neuronal loss. In contrast, transgenic astrocytic CCL2 over-induction increased CCR2 + monocyte infiltration and DA neuronal loss in MPTP mice. Surprisingly, CCL2 over-induction was also detected in MPTP intoxicated CX3CR1-deleted mice, which are known to present increased DA neuronal loss. Importantly, CX3CR1/CCL2 double-deletion suggested that increased neurotoxicity was driven by astrocytic CCL2 over-induction. We show that CCR2 + monocytes infiltrate the affected CNS, but at the level observed in acute MPTP mice, this does not contribute to DA neuronal loss. In contrast, the underlying astrocytic CCL2 induction seemed to be tightly controled, as already moderate CCL2 over-induction led to increased neurotoxicity in MPTP mice, likely due to the increased CCR2 + monocyte infiltration. Importantly, we found evidence suggesting that during DA neurodegeneration, this control was mediated by microglial CX3CR1 signaling, which protects against such neurotoxic CCL2 over-induction by astrocytes, thus hinting at an endogenous mechanism to limit neurotoxic effects of the CCL2-CCR2 axis.

  3. Severe anaphylaxis to Propofol: first case of evidence of sensitization to soy oil.

    PubMed

    Richard, C; Beaudouin, E; Moneret-Vautrin, D A; Kohler, C; Nguyen-Grosjean, V M; Jacquenet, S

    2016-05-01

    The growing worldwide prevalence of food allergies is drawing attention to the risk of allergenic proteins found in intravenous medicinal products, particularly anaesthetics. Propofol induced anaphylaxis has been described. The presence of soybean oil and egg lecithins in the lipid emulsion highlights their suspected responsibility in certain cases. We report a case of anaphylaxis to propofol in an adult patient without food allergy to soy, but with a latent sensitization to soy. An IgE-dependent allergy to propofol was established by a basophil activation test. Here, we document for the first time the existence of specific IgEs to a 65kDa protein, found in soybean oil and soy flour. In the absence of data on the reactogenic threshold for allergenic food proteins injected intravenously, a risk appears to be established and leads us to recommend a systematic detection for proteins in the refined soybean oil used in the pharmaceutical industry for intravenous products.

  4. Soil Flushing Through a Thick Vadose Zone: Perchlorate Removal Documented at Edwards AFB, California

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Battey, T. F.; Shepard, A. J.; Tait, R. J.

    2007-12-01

    There are currently few viable alternatives for perchlorate remediation in the vadose zone, particularly for the relatively thick vadose zones that are typical in the arid southwest where many perchlorate sites occur. Perchlorate in the vadose zone occurs in the form of highly soluble salts that may represent a risk to human or ecological receptors, and may also represent a threat to the underlying groundwater. A soil flushing treatability study was conducted at Edwards Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert of southern California at a site with a 129-foot thick vadose zone consisting primarily of clayey sand. This study utilized an infiltration gallery in conjunction with extraction, treatment, and re-injection of groundwater at the site, which contained perchlorate-contaminated soil and groundwater. The study objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the infiltration gallery to 1) introduce treated groundwater back into the aquifer and 2) wash the perchlorate from the vadose zone soils to the aquifer. The infiltration gallery consisted of slotted PVC pipes within a highly permeable engineered bed of washed gravel. The initial water introduced into the gallery was amended with potassium bromide tracer. A downhole neutron probe was used to track the movement of the wetting front downward and outward from the gallery. Successive neutron measurements in vertical access tubes revealed that the introduced water reached the 125-foot bottom of the access tubes 14 weeks after the water was introduced into the gallery. The bromide tracer was detected in groundwater immediately below the gallery approximately 1 week later. The infiltration gallery was able to sustain an average flow rate of 2.3 gallons per minute. Prior to infiltration, the perchlorate concentration in groundwater below the gallery was 4,500 µg/L. Approximately 18 weeks after the start of infiltration, a perchlorate spike of 72,400 µg/L was detected below the gallery. The increase in perchlorate groundwater concentrations indicates the transfer of perchlorate from the vadose zone to the saturated zone, where it was readily captured by an adjacent groundwater extraction well. Continued flushing of treated water through the vadose and saturated zones resulted in a rapid decline in perchlorate groundwater concentrations. Confirmation soil boreholes documented the effectiveness of the soil treatment after perchlorate groundwater concentrations returned to their pre-soil flushing levels. This treatability study demonstrates that perchlorate can be removed from a thick sandy vadose zone by controlled infiltration with associated hydraulic control of groundwater to capture the leached perchlorate. The treatability study results also indicates that an infiltration gallery may provide 1) a cost-effective alternative to injection wells for reintroducing treated groundwater to the aquifer and 2) an effective mechanism for the delivery of amendments to the vadose zone and aquifer for promoting enhanced biodegradation of perchlorate in soil and groundwater.

  5. Detection of semi-volatile organic compounds in permeable pavement infiltrate

    EPA Science Inventory

    Abstract The Edison Environmental Center (EEC) performs research on green infrastructure (GI) treatment options. One such treatment option is the use of permeable pavements. EEC constructed a parking lot comprised of three different permeable systems: permeable asphalt, porous ...

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

    Plucknett, K.P.; Becher, P.F.; Subramanian, R.

    A simple melt-infiltration processing route has been developed for the fabrication of TiC/Ni{sub 3}Al ceramic/intermetallic composites, which involves a combination of infiltration and subsequent liquid phase sintering. For Ni{sub 3}Al contents from 8 to 25 vol. {percent}, densities in excess of 98{percent} of theoretical are readily obtained when processing at 1450{degree}C. TiC and Ni{sub 3}Al are the only phases detected in the densified materials. Ni{sub 3}Al ductility is retained after processing, leading to the possibility of ductile phase toughened TiC composites for elevated temperature applications (up to {approximately}1100{degree}C). {copyright} {ital 1997 Materials Research Society.}

  7. Aquifer recharge with stormwater runoff in urban areas: Influence of vadose zone thickness on nutrient and bacterial transfers from the surface of infiltration basins to groundwater.

    PubMed

    Voisin, Jérémy; Cournoyer, Benoit; Vienney, Antonin; Mermillod-Blondin, Florian

    2018-10-01

    Stormwater infiltration systems (SIS) have been built in urban areas to reduce the environmental impacts of stormwater runoff. Infiltration basins allow the transfer of stormwater runoff to aquifers but their abilities to retain contaminants depend on vadose zone properties. This study assessed the influence of vadose zone thickness (VZT) on the transfer of inorganic nutrients (PO 4 3- , NO 3 - , NH 4 + ), dissolved organic carbon (total -DOC- and biodegradable -BDOC-) and bacteria. A field experiment was conducted on three SIS with a thin vadose zone (<3 m) and three SIS with a thick vadose zone (>10 m). Water samples were collected at three times during a rainy period of 10 days in each infiltration basin (stormwater runoff), in the aquifer impacted by infiltration (impacted groundwater) and in the same aquifer but upstream of the infiltration area (non-impacted groundwater). Inorganic nutrients, organic matter, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured on all water samples. Bacterial community structures were investigated on water samples through a next-generation sequencing (NGS) scheme of 16S rRNA gene amplicons (V5-V6). The concentrations of DO and phosphate measured in SIS-impacted groundwaters were significantly influenced by VZT due to distinct biogeochemical processes occurring in the vadose zone. DOC and BDOC were efficiently retained in the vadose zone, regardless of its thickness. Bacterial transfers to the aquifer were overall low, but data obtained on day 10 indicated a significant bacterial transfer in SIS with a thin vadose zone. Water transit time and water saturation of the vadose zone were found important parameters for bacterial transfers. Most bacterial taxa (>60%) from impacted groundwaters were not detected in stormwater runoff and in non-impacted groundwaters, indicating that groundwater bacterial communities were significantly modified by processes associated with infiltration (remobilization of bacteria from vadose zone and/or species sorting). Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Tumoral immune-infiltrate (IF), PD-L1 expression and role of CD8/TIA-1 lymphocytes in localized osteosarcoma patients treated within protocol ISG-OS1.

    PubMed

    Palmerini, Emanuela; Agostinelli, Claudio; Picci, Piero; Pileri, Stefano; Marafioti, Teresa; Lollini, Pier-Luigi; Scotlandi, Katia; Longhi, Alessandra; Benassi, Maria Serena; Ferrari, Stefano

    2017-12-19

    We hypothesized that immune-infiltrates were associated with superior survival, and examined a primary osteosarcoma tissue microarrays (TMAs) to test this hypothesis. 129 patients (pts) with localized osteosarcoma treated within protocol ISG-OS1 were included in the study. Clinical characteristics, expression of CD8, CD3, FOXP3, CD20, CD68/CD163 (tumor associated macrophage, TAM), Tia-1 (cytotoxic T cell), CD303 (plasmacytoid dendritic cells: pDC), Arginase-1 (myeloid derived suppressor cells: MDSC), PD-1 on immune-cells (IC), and PD-L1 on tumoral cells (TC) and IC were analysed and correlated with outcome. Most of the cases presented tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (CD3+ 90%; CD8+ 86%). Tia-1 was detected in 73% of the samples. PD-L1 expression was found in 14% patients in IC and 0% in TC; 22% showed PD-1 expression in IC.With a median follow-up of 8 years (range 1-13), the 5-year overall survival (5-year OS) was 74% (95% CI 64-85). Univariate analysis showed better 5-year OS for: a) pts with a good histologic response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.0001); b) pts with CD8/Tia1 tumoral infiltrates (p = 0.002); c) pts with normal alkaline phosphatas (sALP) (p = 0.04). After multivariate analysis, histologic response (p = 0.007) and CD8/Tia1 infiltration (p = 0.01) were independently correlated with survival. In the subset of pts with CD8+ infiltrate, worse (p 0.02) OS was observed for PD-L1(IC)+ cases. Our findings support the hypothesis that CD8/Tia1 infiltrate in tumor microenvironment at diagnosis confers superior survival for pts with localized osteosarcoma, while PD-L1 expression is associated with worse survival.

  9. [Influence of La2O3 and Li2O on glass powder for infiltrating ZTA all-ceramic dental material formed by gel-casting].

    PubMed

    Jin, Qiong; Wang, Xiao-fei; Yang, Zheng-yu; Tong, Yi-ping; Zhu, Li; Ma, Jian-feng

    2012-10-01

    The influence of La2O3 and Li2O on glass powder was studied in this paper, which is to infiltrate ZTA all-ceramic dental material formed by gel-casting. The performance of different component was analyzed to optimize glass formula. Six groups of glass powder were designed and prepared by conventional melt-quenching method. ZTA ceramic blocks were covered with glass paste, which were formed by gel-casting and sintered in 1200 degrees centigrade, then infiltrated in 1150 degrees centigrade for twice to make glass/ZTA ceramic composites. By detecting differential thermal analysis and melting range of infiltration glass power, as well as flexural strength, linear shrinkage, SEM and EDS of glass/ZTA ceramic composites, the optimized glass group was determined out. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 13.0 software package by means of paired t test or one way ANOVA. The bending strength of group Li1 was (291.2±27.9) MPa, significantly higher than group Li2 and group La2(P<0.05), and linear shrinkage of group Li1 was only(1.85±0.27)%. SEM and EDS showed glass of group Li1 can lubricate ZTA ceramics well, their structure was compact and had a few small pores. Intergranular fracture existed on cross surface as well as transgranular fracture. The results showed that Li1(30%La2O3-15%Al2O3-15%SiO2-15%B2O3-5%Li2O) glass infiltrated ZTA ceramic composite had the best capability. Glass/ZTA composite material can be prepared by gel-casting and infiltrating way, and this process is simple and economically suitable for general dental laboratory.

  10. Tumor-promoting effect of IL-23 in mammary cancer mediated by infiltration of M2 macrophages and neutrophils in tumor microenvironment

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

    Nie, Wen; Yu, Ting; Sang, Yaxiong

    Interleukin 23 (IL-23) is an inflammatory cytokine which plays a vital role in autoimmune diseases as well as in tumorigenesis. However, the role of IL-23 in tumor procession is still controversial and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we established a stable cell line overexpressing IL-23 to prove that IL-23 promoted tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis through induction of tumor-related inflammation and absence of immune surveillance. IL-23 promotes tumor-associate inflammatory response such as infiltration of M2 macrophages, neutrophils and their elevated secretions of immunosuppressive cytokines transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), IL-10 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) into tumor tissues, meanwhilemore » the increase of the matrix metalloprotease MMP9. In addition, IL-23 increases the expression of the endothelial marker CD31 and proliferative marker Ki67 in tumors. Moreover, IL23 induces immunosuppression though reducing the infiltration of CD4{sup +}and CD8{sup +}T cells into tumor tissues. In conclusion, IL-23 is a considerable molecular in tumor progression, which simultaneously facilitates processes of pro-tumor inflammation, such as angiogenesis, immunosuppressive cytokines as well as infiltrations of M2 macrophages and neutrophils, and suppresses antitumor immune responses through reduction of CD4{sup +} T cells and CD8{sup +} T cells. - Highlights: • IL-23 promoted mammary tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis. • IL-23 enhanced the infiltration of M2 macrophages and neutrophils into IL-23-dominated tumor microenvironment (TME). • Immunosuppressing cytokines IL-10, TGF-β and VEGF were detected to rise in IL-23-transduced tumor tissues. • IL-23 down regulated the ability of CD8{sup +}T and CD4{sup +}T cells to infiltrate tumors.« less

  11. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte composition, organization and PD-1/ PD-L1 expression are linked in breast cancer

    PubMed Central

    Garaud, Soizic; de Wind, Alexandre; Van den Eynden, Gert; Boisson, Anais; Gu-Trantien, Chunyan; Naveaux, Céline; Lodewyckx, Jean-Nicolas; Duvillier, Hugues; Craciun, Ligia; Veys, Isabelle; Larsimont, Denis; Piccart-Gebhart, Martine; Stagg, John; Sotiriou, Christos

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT The clinical relevance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in breast cancer (BC) has been clearly established by their demonstrated correlation with long-term positive outcomes. Nevertheless, the relationship between protective immunity, observed in some patients, and critical features of the infiltrate remains unresolved. This study examined TIL density, composition and organization together with PD-1 and PD-L1 expression in freshly collected and paraffin-embedded tissues from 125 patients with invasive primary BC. Tumor and normal breast tissues were analyzed using both flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. TIL density distribution is a continuum with 25% of tumors identified as TIL-negative at a TIL density equivalent to normal breast tissues. TIL-positive tumors (75%) were equally divided into TIL-intermediate and TIL-high. Tumors had higher mean frequencies of CD4+ T cells and CD19+ B cells and a lower mean frequency of CD8+ T cells compare with normal tissues, increasing the CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), principally located in the peri-tumoral stroma, were detected in 60% of tumors and correlated with higher TIL infiltration. PD-1 and PD-L1 expression were also associated with higher TIL densities and TLS. TIL density, TLS and PD-L1 expression were correlated with more aggressive tumor characteristics, including higher proliferation and hormone receptor negativity. Our findings reveal an important relationship between PD-1/PD-L1 expression, increased CD4+ T and B-cell infiltration, TIL density and TLS, suggesting that evaluating not only the extent but also the nature and location of the immune infiltrate should be considered when evaluating antitumor immunity and the potential for benefit from immunotherapies. PMID:28197375

  12. Local infiltration analgesia adds no clinical benefit in pain control to peripheral nerve blocks after total knee arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Hinarejos, Pedro; Capurro, Bruno; Santiveri, Xavier; Ortiz, Pere; Leal, Joan; Pelfort, Xavier; Torres-Claramunt, Raul; Sánchez-Soler, Juan; Monllau, Joan C

    2016-10-01

    To evaluate the effect of the local infiltration of analgesics for pain after total knee arthroplasty in patients treated with femoral and sciatic peripheral nerve blocks. The secondary objective was to detect differences in analgesic consumption as well as blood loss after local infiltration of analgesics. Prospective randomized double-blinded study in patients who underwent a TKA for knee osteoarthritis under spinal anesthesia and treated with femoral and sciatic nerve blocks. This study compared 50 patients treated with local infiltration with ropivacaine, epinephrine, ketorolac and clonidine and 50 patients treated with a placebo with the same technique. The visual analogic score was registered postoperatively at 2, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h after surgery. Analgesic consumption was also registered. Both groups of patients were treated with the same surgical and rehabilitation protocols. A significant difference of one point was found in the visual analogic pain scores 12 h after surgery (0.6 ± 1.5 vs. 1.7 ± 2.3). There were no significant differences in the visual analogic pain scores evaluated at any other time between 2 and 72 h after surgery. No significant differences were found in the required doses of tramadol or morphine in the postoperative period. Postoperative hemoglobin and blood loss were also similar in both groups. Adding local infiltration of analgesics to peripheral nerve blocks after TKA surgery only provides minimal benefit for pain control. This benefit may be considered as non-clinically relevant. Moreover, the need for additional analgesics was the same in both groups. Therefore, the use of local infiltration of analgesics treatment in TKA surgery cannot be recommended if peripheral nerve blocks are used. I.

  13. Local upregulation of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 ion channels in rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis

    PubMed Central

    Bohonyi, Noémi; Pohóczky, Krisztina; Szalontai, Bálint; Perkecz, Anikó; Kovács, Krisztina; Kajtár, Béla; Orbán, Lajos; Varga, Tamás; Szegedi, Sarolta; Bódis, József; Koppán, Miklós

    2017-01-01

    Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) expressed mainly by primary sensory neurons function as major nociceptive integrators. They are also present on the rat endometrium in an oestrogen-regulated manner. TRPV1 is upregulated in peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis patients, but there is no information about TRPA1 and their pathophysiological significances. In this study, patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery were investigated: severe dysmenorrhoea due to rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis (n = 15), uterine fibroid-induced moderate dysmenorrhoea (n = 7) and tubal infertility with no pain (n = 6). TRPA1 and TRPV1 mRNA and protein expressions were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry from the endometrium samples taken by curettage. Results were correlated with the clinical characteristics including pain intensity. TRPA1 and TRPV1 receptors were expressed in the healthy human endometrium at mRNA and protein levels. Sparse, scattered cytoplasmic TRPA1 and TRPV1 immunopositivities were found in the stroma and epithelial layers. We detected upregulated mRNA levels in deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions, and TRPV1 gene expression was also elevated in autocontrol endometrium of deep infiltrating endometriosis patients. Histological scoring revealed significant TRPA1 and TRPV1 difference between deep infiltrating endometriosis stroma and epithelium, and in deep infiltrating endometriosis epithelium compared to control samples. Besides, we measured elevated stromal TRPV1 immunopositivity in deep infiltrating endometriosis. Stromal TRPA1 and TRPV1 immunoreactivities strongly correlated with dysmenorrhoea severity, as well TRPV1 expression on ectopic epithelial cells and macrophages with dyspareunia. Epithelial TRPA1 and stromal TRPV1 immunopositivity also positively correlated with dyschezia severity. We provide the first evidence for the presence of non-neuronal TRPA1 receptor in the healthy human endometrium and confirm the expression of TRPV1 channels. Their upregulations in rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions and correlations with pain intensity suggest potential roles in pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. PMID:28478727

  14. Local upregulation of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 ion channels in rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis.

    PubMed

    Bohonyi, Noémi; Pohóczky, Krisztina; Szalontai, Bálint; Perkecz, Anikó; Kovács, Krisztina; Kajtár, Béla; Orbán, Lajos; Varga, Tamás; Szegedi, Sarolta; Bódis, József; Helyes, Zsuzsanna; Koppán, Miklós

    2017-01-01

    Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) expressed mainly by primary sensory neurons function as major nociceptive integrators. They are also present on the rat endometrium in an oestrogen-regulated manner. TRPV1 is upregulated in peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis patients, but there is no information about TRPA1 and their pathophysiological significances. In this study, patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery were investigated: severe dysmenorrhoea due to rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis ( n = 15), uterine fibroid-induced moderate dysmenorrhoea ( n = 7) and tubal infertility with no pain ( n = 6). TRPA1 and TRPV1 mRNA and protein expressions were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry from the endometrium samples taken by curettage. Results were correlated with the clinical characteristics including pain intensity. TRPA1 and TRPV1 receptors were expressed in the healthy human endometrium at mRNA and protein levels. Sparse, scattered cytoplasmic TRPA1 and TRPV1 immunopositivities were found in the stroma and epithelial layers. We detected upregulated mRNA levels in deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions, and TRPV1 gene expression was also elevated in autocontrol endometrium of deep infiltrating endometriosis patients. Histological scoring revealed significant TRPA1 and TRPV1 difference between deep infiltrating endometriosis stroma and epithelium, and in deep infiltrating endometriosis epithelium compared to control samples. Besides, we measured elevated stromal TRPV1 immunopositivity in deep infiltrating endometriosis. Stromal TRPA1 and TRPV1 immunoreactivities strongly correlated with dysmenorrhoea severity, as well TRPV1 expression on ectopic epithelial cells and macrophages with dyspareunia. Epithelial TRPA1 and stromal TRPV1 immunopositivity also positively correlated with dyschezia severity. We provide the first evidence for the presence of non-neuronal TRPA1 receptor in the healthy human endometrium and confirm the expression of TRPV1 channels. Their upregulations in rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions and correlations with pain intensity suggest potential roles in pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease.

  15. Early-Dynamic Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/Computed Tomography and PET Angiography for Endoleak Detection After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair.

    PubMed

    Drescher, Robert; Gühne, Falk; Freesmeyer, Martin

    2017-06-01

    To propose a positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) protocol including early-dynamic and late-phase acquisitions to evaluate graft patency and aneurysm diameter, detect endoleaks, and rule out graft or vessel wall inflammation after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in one examination without intravenous contrast medium. Early-dynamic PET/CT of the endovascular prosthesis is performed for 180 seconds immediately after intravenous injection of F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose. Data are reconstructed in variable time frames (time periods after tracer injection) to visualize the arterial anatomy and are displayed as PET angiography or fused with CT images. Images are evaluated in view of vascular abnormalities, graft configuration, and tracer accumulation in the aneurysm sac. Whole-body PET/CT is performed 90 to 120 minutes after tracer injection. This protocol for early-dynamic PET/CT and PET angiography has the potential to evaluate vascular diseases, including the diagnosis of complications after endovascular procedures.

  16. Effects of High-Temperature-Pressure Polymerized Resin-Infiltrated Ceramic Networks on Oral Stem Cells

    PubMed Central

    Nassif, Ali; Berbar, Tsouria; Le Goff, Stéphane; Berdal, Ariane; Sadoun, Michael; Fournier, Benjamin P. J.

    2016-01-01

    Objectives The development of CAD—CAM techniques called for new materials suited to this technique and offering a safe and sustainable clinical implementation. The infiltration of resin in a ceramic network under high pressure and high temperature defines a new class of hybrid materials, namely polymer infiltrated ceramics network (PICN), for this purpose which requires to be evaluated biologically. We used oral stem cells (gingival and pulpal) as an in vitro experimental model. Methods Four biomaterials were grinded, immersed in a culture medium and deposed on stem cells from dental pulp (DPSC) and gingiva (GSC): Enamic (VITA®), Experimental Hybrid Material (EHM), EHM with initiator (EHMi) and polymerized Z100™ composite material (3M®). After 7 days of incubation; viability, apoptosis, proliferation, cytoskeleton, inflammatory response and morphology were evaluated in vitro. Results Proliferation was insignificantly delayed by all the tested materials. Significant cytotoxicity was observed in presence of resin based composites (MTT assay), however no detectable apoptosis and some dead cells were detected like in PICN materials. Cell morphology, major cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix components were not altered. An intimate contact appeared between the materials and cells. Clinical Significance The three new tested biomaterials did not exhibit adverse effects on oral stem cells in our experimental conditions and may be an interesting alternative to ceramics or composite based CAD—CAM blocks. PMID:27196425

  17. Renilla luciferase-based quantitation of Potato virus A infection initiated with Agrobacterium infiltration of N. benthamiana leaves.

    PubMed

    Eskelin, K; Suntio, T; Hyvärinen, S; Hafren, A; Mäkinen, K

    2010-03-01

    A quantitation method based on the sensitive detection of Renilla luciferase (Rluc) activity was developed and optimized for Potato virus A (PVA; genus Potyviridae) gene expression. This system is based on infections initiated by Agrobacterium infiltration and subsequent detection of the translation of PVA::Rluc RNA, which is enhanced by viral replication, first within the cells infected initially and later by translation and replication within new cells after spread of the virus. Firefly luciferase (Fluc) was used as an internal control to normalize the Rluc activity. An approximately 10-fold difference in the Rluc/Fluc activity ratio between a movement-deficient and a replication-deficient mutant was observed starting from 48h post Agrobacterium infiltration (h.p.i.). The Rluc activity derived from wild type (wt) PVA increased significantly between 48 and 72h.p.i. and the Rluc/Fluc activity deviated clearly from that of the mutant viruses. Quantitation of the Rluc and Fluc mRNAs by semi-quantitative RT-PCR indicated that increases and decreases in the Renillareniformis luciferase (rluc) mRNA levels coincided with changes in Rluc activity. However, a subtle increase in the mRNA level led to pronounced changes in Rluc activity. PVA CP accumulation was quantitated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The increase in Rluc activity correlated closely with virus accumulation. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Tin-117m-labeled stannic (Sn.sup.4+) chelates

    DOEpatents

    Srivastava, Suresh C.; Meinken, George E.; Richards, Powell

    1985-01-01

    The radiopharmaceutical reagents of this invention and the class of Tin-117m radiopharmaceuticals are therapeutic and diagnostic agents that incorporate gamma-emitting nuclides that localize in bone after intravenous injection in mammals (mice, rats, dogs, and rabbits). Images reflecting bone structure or function can then be obtained by a scintillation camera that detects the distribution of ionizing radiation emitted by the radioactive agent. Tin-117m-labeled chelates of stannic tin localize almost exclusively in cortical bone. Upon intravenous injection of the reagent, the preferred chelates are phosphonate compounds, preferable, PYP, MDP, EHDP, and DTPA. This class of reagents is therapeutically and diagnostically useful in skeletal scintigraphy and for the radiotherapy of bone tumors and other disorders.

  19. Safety devices for neonatal intensive care.

    PubMed

    Neuman, M R; Flammer, C M; O'Connor, E

    1982-01-01

    Three relatively simple devices for improving safety in neonatal intensive care are described. When umbilical artery catheters are used, an inexpensive pressure switch is utilized to detect abnormally low pressures associated with catheter withdrawal or excessive fluid leakage from the catheter system. A capacitive, intravenous-line air bubble detector, consisting of a section of the intravenous line as the dielectric of a capacitor, is used to alert the clinical staff when air bubbles pass between the capacitor plates. An electronic temperature controller maintains the temperature of neonatal breathing gases to avoid temperature variations which occur with presently used techniques. These are relatively simple and inexpensive devices which can be fabricated by most hospital clinical engineering services.

  20. Failure of Intravenous Aspirin to Increase Gastrointestinal Blood Loss

    PubMed Central

    Cooke, Allan R.; Goulston, Kerry

    1969-01-01

    Studies of the effect of intravenous sodium acetylsalicylate (aspirin) on gastrointestinal blood loss with 51Cr-labelled red cells were made on 15 healthy male volunteers. After a control period of five days 1 g. of sodium acetylsalicylate was infused over a period of 100 minutes twice daily for three days. Faecal blood loss was not increased. In a further six subjects 3 g. of sodium acetylsalicylate was infused over a period of 120 minutes. No salicylate or acetylsalicylate was detected in saliva or gastric washings from these six subjects. Hence gastrointestinal blood loss induced by aspirin may be explained by a local effect on mucosa and not by any systemic effect. PMID:5306445

  1. Organisation of lymphocytic infiltrates in ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis.

    PubMed

    Brix, Silke R; Noriega, Mercedes; Herden, Elisabeth M; Goldmann, Birgit; Langbehn, Ulrike; Busch, Martin; Jabs, Wolfram J; Steinmetz, Oliver M; Panzer, Ulf; Huber, Tobias B; Stahl, Rolf A K; Wiech, Thorsten

    2018-06-01

    Renal involvement in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis contributes to significant morbidity and mortality in patients. In chronic inflammation, B cells are recruited to the inflamed tissue and organised lymphoid structures have been described in several autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to correlate the lymphoid organisation in renal biopsies with renal outcome in ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis (GN). We investigated 112 renal biopsies from patients with newly diagnosed ANCA-associated necrotising GN. We identified four different levels of the intrarenal organisation of lymphocytes: T cells without B cells, scattered B and T cells, clustered lymphocytic infiltrates and nodular compartmentally arranged B and T cell aggregates. Almost half the patients showed clusters of B and T lymphocytes in their biopsies. In 15 of these biopsies, a higher degree of organisation with lymphocytic compartments was detected. Inflammatory cell organisation was associated with renal failure, but not with tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. Patients with organised lymphocytic infiltrates in their biopsy had worse renal function during follow-up and were more likely to develop end stage renal disease. In the present study, we show that the renal lymphocytic organisation is associated with renal outcome in ANCA-associated GN. The organisation of the lymphocytic infiltrate may be a morphological correlate of a perpetual and exaggerated inflammation in renal ANCA disease. Classifying the lymphocytic infiltrate could help to predict renal outcome, and might therefore be used for individualised adjustments in the intensity and duration of immunosuppressive therapy. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. Efficacy of Liposomal Bupivacaine Infiltration on the Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty.

    PubMed

    Sakamoto, Bryan; Keiser, Shelly; Meldrum, Russell; Harker, Gene; Freese, Andrew

    2017-01-01

    Liposomal bupivacaine is a novel extended-duration anesthetic that has recently been used for local infiltration in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Athough liposomal bupivacaine is widely used, it is unknown if the benefits justify the cost in the veteran population at our institution. To evaluate a change in practice: the effect of local infiltration of liposomal bupivacaine on perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing primary TKA. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients who underwent primary TKA at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center before (March 3, 2013-March 2, 2014) and after (March 3, 2014-March 2, 2015) the implementation of liposomal bupivacaine for local infiltration in TKA. Drug utilization evaluation of liposomal bupivacaine for local infiltration in TKA. Use of opioids after discharge from the postanesthesia care unit. Among 199 patients, those who received liposomal bupivacaine after primary TKA (mean [SD] age, 65.3 [6.9] years; 93 males and 5 females) had a reduced median opioid use in the first 24 hours after surgery compared with those who did not receive liposomal bupivacaine (mean [SD] age, 64.9 [8.4] years; 95 males and 6 females; [intravenous morphine equivalents, 12.50 vs 22.50 mg; P = .001]). The use of patient-controlled analgesia was also reduced among patients who received liposomal bupivacaine vs those who did not (49 vs 91; P < .001). A reduction in the use of antiemetics was observed in the first 24 hours after surgery (13 vs 34; P = .001) and in the postanesthesia care unit among those who received liposomal bupivacaine vs those who did not (4 vs 20; P = .001). The number of patients in the postanesthesia care unit with no pain was improved among those who received liposomal bupivacaine vs those who did not (44 vs 19; P < .001). Although median (interquartile range) pain scores in the postanesthesia care unit were improved among patients who received liposomal bupivacaine vs those who did not (4.0 [0.0-6.6] vs 5.5 [3.0-7.5]; P = .001), patients who received liposomal bupivacaine had greater median (interquartile range) pain scores 48 hours (5.5 [4.0-7.0] vs 5.0 [3.0-6.0]; P = .01), 72 hours (5.0 [4.0-6.0] vs 4.0 [2.0-6.0]; P = .002), and 96 hours (5.0 [3.0-6.5] vs 4.0 [1.0-5.0]; P = .003) after surgery than those who did not receive liposomal bupivacaine. There was no difference in the median length of stay between the 2 groups. Institutional cost savings was estimated at $27 000 per year. Local infiltration of liposomal bupivacaine reduces use of opioids in the first 24 hours after primary TKA. Similarly, reduction in antiemetic use and improved postoperative pain are also seen in the first 24 hours after surgery but are limited to this time frame. Furthermore, a positive institutional cost savings was observed.

  3. Clinical efficacy of cycling empirical antibiotic therapy for febrile neutropenia in pediatric cancer patients.

    PubMed

    Teranishi, Hideto; Koga, Yuhki; Nishio, Hisanori; Kato, Wakako; Ono, Hiroaki; Kanno, Shunsuke; Nakashima, Kentaro; Takada, Hidetoshi

    2017-07-01

    Febrile neutropenia (FN) is the main treatment-related cause of mortality among children with cancer, as the prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance in these patients. Antibiotic cycling has been reported to limit the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria among adult patients. However, no studies have evaluated pediatric patients with FN. Between September 2011 and February 2014, 126 pediatric cancer patients were admitted to our center for chemotherapy and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and were included in this study. Retrospective and prospective data collection were performed before and after antibiotic cycling, respectively. Between September 2011 and November 2012 (before antibiotic cycling was implemented), intravenous cefpirome was used as the empirical therapy for FN. Between December 2012 and February 2014 (after antibiotic cycling was implemented), the monthly antibiotic cycling involved intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam (PIPC/TAZ), intravenous meropenem or ciprofloxacin (CPFX), and intravenous cefepime in that order. For children aged ≥13 years, the monthly cycling involved intravenous PIPC/TAZ, and CPFX was administered. The detection rates for extended-spectrum β-lactamase producers in blood and stool culture samples decreased significantly after the implementation of antibiotic cycling (0.33/1000 patient-days vs 0/1000 patient-days, p = 0.03; 1.00/1000 patient-days vs 0/1000 patient-days, p < 0.01; respectively). Antibiotic cycling was associated with a decreased emergence of multidrug-resistant microbes. Copyright © 2017 Japanese Society of Chemotherapy and The Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. [Role of rennin-angiotensin system in cholinergic agonist carbachol-induced cardiovascular responses in ovine fetus].

    PubMed

    Geng, Chun-Song; Wan, Zhen; Feng, Ya-Hong; Fan, Yi-Sun

    2012-06-25

    To investigate the mechanisms underlying the cholinergic agonist carbachol-induced cardiovascular responses, changes of renin-angiotensin system were examined in fetal hormonal systems. In the ovine fetal model under stressless condition, the cardiovascular function was recorded. Blood samples were collected before (during baseline period) and after the intravenous administration of carbachol. Simultaneously, the levels of angiotensin I (Ang I), angiotensin II (Ang II) and vasopressin in the fetal plasma were detected by immunoradiological method. Also, blood gas, plasma osmolality and electrolyte concentrations were analyzed in blood samples. Results showed that in chronically prepared ovine fetus, intravenous infusion of carbachol led to a significant decrease of heart rate (P < 0.05), and a transient decrease followed by an increase of blood pressure (P < 0.05) within 30 min. After the intravenous infusion of carbachol, blood concentrations of Ang I and Ang II in near-term ovine fetus were both significantly increased (P < 0.05); however, blood concentration of vasopressin, values of blood gas, electrolytes and plasma osmolality in near-term ovine fetus were not significantly changed (P > 0.05). Blood levels of Ang I and Ang II in the atropine (M receptor antagonist) + carbachol intravenous administration group was lower than those in the carbachol group without atropine administration (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study indicates that the near-term changes of cardiovascular system induced by intravenous administration of carbachol in ovine fetus, such as blood pressure and heart rate, are associated with the changes of hormones of circulatory renin-angiotensin system.

  5. HTLV-III: Intra-BBB IgG Synthesis and Hybridization in CSF Cells

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-02-08

    toxoplasmosis , and 3 had cryptococcal meningitis. All patients had known risk factors for HIV infection: 44 were homosexual and 8 were intravenous drug abusers...disease caused by detectable CNS opportunistic pathogens, cryptococcal meningitis, and cerebral toxoplasmosis . In six instances of AIDS-associated dementia

  6. Microbial characterization of nitrification in a shallow, nitrogen-contaminated aquifer, Cape Cod, Massachusetts and detection of a novel cluster associated with nitrifying Betaproteobacteria

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Miller, D.N.; Smith, R.L.

    2009-01-01

    Groundwater nitrification is a poorly characterized process affecting the speciation and transport of nitrogen. Cores from two sites in a plume of contamination were examined using culture-based and molecular techniques targeting nitrification processes. The first site, located beneath a sewage effluent infiltration bed, received treated effluent containing O2 (> 300????M) and NH4+ (51-800????M). The second site was 2.5??km down-gradient near the leading edge of the ammonium zone within the contaminant plume and featured vertical gradients of O2, NH4+, and NO3- (0-300, 0-500, and 100-200????M with depth, respectively). Ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizers enumerated by the culture-based MPN method were low in abundance at both sites (1.8 to 350??g- 1 and 33 to 35,000??g- 1, respectively). Potential nitrifying activity measured in core material in the laboratory was also very low, requiring several weeks for products to accumulate. Molecular analysis of aquifer DNA (nested PCR followed by cloning and 16S rDNA sequencing) detected primarily sequences associated with the Nitrosospira genus throughout the cores at the down-gradient site and a smaller proportion from the Nitrosomonas genus in the deeper anoxic, NH4+ zone at the down-gradient site. Only a single Nitrosospira sequence was detected beneath the infiltration bed. Furthermore, the majority of Nitrosospira-associated sequences represent an unrecognized cluster. We conclude that an uncharacterized group associated with Nitrosospira dominate at the geochemically stable, down-gradient site, but found little evidence for Betaproteobacteria nitrifiers beneath the infiltration beds where geochemical conditions were more variable.

  7. Microbial characterization of nitrification in a shallow, nitrogen-contaminated aquifer, Cape Cod, Massachusetts and detection of a novel cluster associated with nitrifying Betaproteobacteria

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miller, Daniel N.; Smith, Richard L.

    2009-01-01

    Groundwater nitrification is a poorly characterized process affecting the speciation and transport of nitrogen. Cores from two sites in a plume of contamination were examined using culture-based and molecular techniques targeting nitrification processes. The first site, located beneath a sewage effluent infiltration bed, received treated effluent containing O 2 (> 300 µM) and NH 4+ (51-800 µM). The second site was 2.5 km down-gradient near the leading edge of the ammonium zone within the contaminant plume and featured vertical gradients of O 2, NH 4+, and NO 3- (0-300, 0-500, and 100-200 µM with depth, respectively). Ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizers enumerated by the culture-based MPN method were low in abundance at both sites (1.8 to 350 g - 1 and 33 to 35,000 g - 1 , respectively). Potential nitrifying activity measured in core material in the laboratory was also very low, requiring several weeks for products to accumulate. Molecular analysis of aquifer DNA (nested PCR followed by cloning and 16S rDNA sequencing) detected primarily sequences associated with the Nitrosospira genus throughout the cores at the down-gradient site and a smaller proportion from the Nitrosomonas genus in the deeper anoxic, NH 4+ zone at the down-gradient site. Only a single Nitrosospira sequence was detected beneath the infiltration bed. Furthermore, the majority of Nitrosospira-associated sequences represent an unrecognized cluster. We conclude that an uncharacterized group associated with Nitrosospira dominate at the geochemically stable, down-gradient site, but found little evidence for Betaproteobacteria nitrifiers beneath the infiltration beds where geochemical conditions were more variable.

  8. Major Histocompatibility Complex I and II Expression and Lymphocytic Subtypes in Muscle of Horses with Immune-Mediated Myositis.

    PubMed

    Durward-Akhurst, S A; Finno, C J; Barnes, N; Shivers, J; Guo, L T; Shelton, G D; Valberg, S J

    2016-07-01

    Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I and II expression is not normally detected on sarcolemma, but is detected with lymphocytic infiltrates in immune-mediated myositis (IMM) of humans and dogs and in dysferlin-deficient muscular dystrophy. To determine if sarcolemmal MHC is expressed in active IMM in horses, if MHC expression is associated with lymphocytic subtype, and if dysferlin is expressed in IMM. Twenty-one IMM horses of Quarter Horse-related breeds, 3 healthy and 6 disease controls (3 pasture myopathy, 3 amylase-resistant polysaccharide storage myopathy [PSSM]). Immunohistochemical staining for MHC I, II, and CD4+, CD8+, CD20+ lymphocytes was performed on archived muscle of IMM and control horses. Scores were given for MHC I, II, and lymphocytic subtypes. Immunofluorescent staining for dysferlin, dystrophin, and a-sarcoglycan was performed. Sarcolemmal MHC I and II expression was detected in 17/21 and 15/21 of IMM horses, respectively, and in specific fibers of PSSM horses, but not healthy or pasture myopathy controls. The CD4+, CD8+, and CD20+ cells were present in 20/21 IMM muscles with CD4+ predominance in 10/21 and CD8+ predominance in 6/21 of IMM horses. Dysferlin, dystrophin, and a-sarcoglycan staining were similar in IMM and control muscles. Deficiencies of dysferlin, dystrophin, and a-sarcoglycan are not associated with IMM. Sarcolemmal MHC I and II expression in a proportion of myofibers of IMM horses in conjunction with lymphocytic infiltration supports an immune-mediated etiology for IMM. The MHC expression also occured in specific myofibers in PSSM horses in the absence of lymphocytic infiltrates. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

  9. Habitat heterogeneity and associated microbial community structure in a small-scale floodplain hyporheic flow path.

    PubMed

    Lowell, Jennifer L; Gordon, Nathan; Engstrom, Dale; Stanford, Jack A; Holben, William E; Gannon, James E

    2009-10-01

    The Nyack floodplain is located on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, an unregulated, pristine, fifth-order stream in Montana, USA, bordering Glacier National Park. The hyporheic zone is a nutritionally heterogeneous floodplain component harboring a diverse array of microbial assemblages essential in fluvial biogeochemical cycling, riverine ecosystem productivity, and trophic interactions. Despite these functions, microbial community structure in pristine hyporheic systems is not well characterized. The current study was designed to assess whether physical habitat heterogeneity within the hyporheic zone of the Nyack floodplain was sufficient to drive bacterial beta diversity between three different hyporheic flow path locations. Habitat heterogeneity was assessed by measuring soluble reactive phosphorous, nitrate, dissolved organic carbon, dissolved oxygen, and soluble total nitrogen levels seasonally at surface water infiltration, advection, and exfiltration zones. Significant spatial differences were detected in dissolved oxygen and nitrate levels, and seasonal differences were detected in dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and dissolved organic carbon levels. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and cell counts indicated that bacterial diversity increased with abundance, and DGGE fingerprints covaried with nitrate levels where water infiltrated the hyporheic zone. The ribosomal gene phylogeny revealed that hyporheic habitat heterogeneity was sufficient to drive beta diversity between bacterial assemblages. Phylogenetic (P) tests detected sequence disparity between the flow path locations. Small distinct lineages of Firmicutes, Actinomycetes, Planctomycetes, and Acidobacteria defined the infiltration zone and alpha- and beta-proteobacterial lineages delineated the exfiltration and advection zone communities. These data suggest that spatial habitat heterogeneity drives hyporheic microbial community development and that attempts to understand functional differences between bacteria inhabiting nutritionally heterogeneous hyporheic environments might begin by focusing on the biology of these taxa.

  10. MHC class I, MHC class II and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in inflammatory myopathies.

    PubMed Central

    Bartoccioni, E; Gallucci, S; Scuderi, F; Ricci, E; Servidei, S; Broccolini, A; Tonali, P

    1994-01-01

    We investigated the relationship between the MHC-I, MHC-II and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression on myofibres and the presence of inflammatory cells in muscle specimens of 18 patients with inflammatory myopathies (nine polymyositis, seven dermatomyositis, two inclusion body myositis). We observed MHC-I expression in muscle fibres, infiltrating mononuclear cells and endothelial cells in every specimen. In seven patients, some muscle fibres were MHC-II-positive for the DR antigen, while the DP and DQ antigens were absent. ICAM-1 expression, detected in seven patients, was found in clusters of myofibres, associated with a marked MHC-I positivity and a widespread mononuclear infiltration. Most of the ICAM-1-positive fibres were regenerating fibres. Furthermore, some fibres expressed both ICAM-1 and DR antigens near infiltrating cells. This finding could support the hypothesis that myofibres may themselves be the site of autosensitization. Images Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 PMID:7507012

  11. Baicalein attenuates vinorelbine-induced vascular endothelial cell injury and chemotherapeutic phlebitis in rabbits

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

    Ge, Gang-Feng

    Chemotherapy is one of the major strategies for cancer treatment. Several antineoplastic drugs including vinorelbine (VRB) are commonly intravenously infused and liable to cause serious phlebitis. The therapeutic drugs for preventing this complication are limited. In this study, the mechanism of baicalein (BCN) was investigated on VRB-induced phlebitis in vivo and vascular endothelial cell injury in vitro. Treatment with BCN obviously attenuated vascular endothelial cell loss, edema, inflammatory cell infiltration and blood clots, and reduced the serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and ICAM-1 in the rabbit model of phlebitis induced by intravenous injection of VRB compared with vehicle. Furthermore » tests in vitro demonstrated that BCN lessened VRB-induced endothelial cell apoptosis, decreased intracellular ROS levels, suppressed phosphorylation of p38 and eventually inhibited activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. And these effects could be reversed by p38 agonist P79350. These results suggested that BCN exerted the protective effects against VRB-induced endothelial disruption in the rabbit model of phlebitis via inhibition of intracellular ROS generation and inactivation of p38/NF-κB pathway, leading to the decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, BCN could be used as a potential agent for the treatment of phlebitis. - Highlights: • Baicalein attenuated vinorelbine-induced vascular endothelial cell apoptosis. • Baicalein inhibited vinorelbine-induced oxidative stress in HUVECs. • Baicalein inhibited activation of p38/NF-κB signaling. • Baicalein attenuated vinorelbine-induced phlebitis and inflammation in rabbits.« less

  12. Uveitis induction in the rabbit by muramyl dipeptides.

    PubMed Central

    Waters, R V; Terrell, T G; Jones, G H

    1986-01-01

    Intraocular inflammation (uveitis) was produced in rabbits by intravenous or subcutaneous treatment with N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine and several of its synthetic analogs at doses of greater than or equal to 0.2 mg/kg in saline. A dose-dependent increase in permeability of the ocular blood-aqueous barrier as measured by leakage of protein or fluoresceinated dextran from the serum into the eye was observed from 2 to 14 h after glycopeptide treatment. Peak response occurred at approximately 3 h postdose. The lowest dose found to produce maximal vascular leakage for the most active glycopeptide analogs was 1 mg/kg. The adjuvant-inactive L-L stereoisomer of N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine was inactive, even at doses as high as 10 mg/kg. Analogs of N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine which were homologous in the lactyl side chain were found to cause less uveitis. Chronic biweekly intravenous treatment of rabbits for 1 month with either N-acetyl-L-alpha-aminobutyryl-D-isoglutamine or its lipophilic 6-O-stearoyl derivative at 1 mg/kg, but not with murabutide, resulted in leukocytic inflammatory lesions unique to the uveal tract of the eye. The uveitis was potentially reversible and occurred with decreased severity as long as 2 months after cessation of chronic treatment. Vascular leakage but not cellular infiltrate in the choroid could be modulated by pharmacologic means. Pyrogenicity but not adjuvanticity correlated with ability of glycopeptides to induce vascular leakage. Several adjuvant-active muramyl dipeptide analogs with minimal ability to cause acute vascular leakage or chronic inflammation in the rabbit eye have been identified. Images PMID:3949381

  13. Point-of-care detection and real-time monitoring of intravenously delivered drugs via tubing with an integrated SERS sensor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Hsin-Yu; Cunningham, Brian T.

    2014-04-01

    We demonstrate an approach for detection, identification, and kinetic monitoring of drugs flowing within tubing, through the use of a plasmonic nanodome array (PNA) surface. The PNA structures are fabricated using a low-cost nanoreplica molding process upon a flexible plastic substrate that is subsequently integrated with a flow cell that connects in series with ordinary intravenous (IV) drug delivery tubing. To investigate the potential clinical applications for point-of-care detection and real-time monitoring, we perform SERS detection of ten pharmaceutical compounds (hydrocodone, levorphanol, morphine, oxycodone, methadone, phenobarbital, dopamine, diltiazem, promethazine, and mitoxantrone). We demonstrate dose-dependent SERS signal magnitude, resulting in detection limits (ng ml-1) well below typical administered dosages (mg ml-1). Further, we show that the detected drugs are not permanently attached to the PNA surface, and thus our approach is capable of performing continuous monitoring of drug delivery as materials flow through IV tubing that is connected in series with the sensor. Finally, we demonstrate the potential co-detection of multiple drugs when they are mixed together, and show excellent reproducibility and stability of SERS measurements for periods extending at least five days. The capabilities reported here demonstrate the potential to use PNA SERS surfaces for enhancing the safety of IV drug delivery.We demonstrate an approach for detection, identification, and kinetic monitoring of drugs flowing within tubing, through the use of a plasmonic nanodome array (PNA) surface. The PNA structures are fabricated using a low-cost nanoreplica molding process upon a flexible plastic substrate that is subsequently integrated with a flow cell that connects in series with ordinary intravenous (IV) drug delivery tubing. To investigate the potential clinical applications for point-of-care detection and real-time monitoring, we perform SERS detection of ten pharmaceutical compounds (hydrocodone, levorphanol, morphine, oxycodone, methadone, phenobarbital, dopamine, diltiazem, promethazine, and mitoxantrone). We demonstrate dose-dependent SERS signal magnitude, resulting in detection limits (ng ml-1) well below typical administered dosages (mg ml-1). Further, we show that the detected drugs are not permanently attached to the PNA surface, and thus our approach is capable of performing continuous monitoring of drug delivery as materials flow through IV tubing that is connected in series with the sensor. Finally, we demonstrate the potential co-detection of multiple drugs when they are mixed together, and show excellent reproducibility and stability of SERS measurements for periods extending at least five days. The capabilities reported here demonstrate the potential to use PNA SERS surfaces for enhancing the safety of IV drug delivery. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Fabrication of PNA substrates, fabrication details of the flow cell, details of FDTD simulation, characterization of the scattering volume, and detection of diltiazem diluted in DI water and PBS. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr00027g

  14. Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity: A Review of Recent Case Reports and Registries.

    PubMed

    Gitman, Marina; Barrington, Michael J

    2018-02-01

    This review summarizes presenting features, management, and outcomes of local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST) from published cases and those submitted to online registries capturing use of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) therapy. The results of single-center and multicenter registries and epidemiologic studies complement this information. Between March 2014 and November 2016, 47 separate cases of LAST were described in 35 peer-reviewed articles. Local anesthetic systemic toxicity events occurred as a result of penile blocks (23%), local infiltration (17%), and upper/lower extremity, torso, and neuraxial blockade. Twenty-two patients (47%) were treated with ILE, and 2 patients (4.3%) died. During the same time period, 11 cases submitted to lipidrescue.org were treated with ILE and survived. The incidence of LAST reported in registries is 0.03% or 0.27 (95% confidence interval, 0.21-0.35) per 1000 peripheral nerve blocks (denominator of 251,325). Seizure (53% and 61% from case reports and registries, respectively) was the most common presenting feature.

  15. Cell Encapsulating Biomaterial Regulates Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cell Differentiation and Macrophage Immunophenotype

    PubMed Central

    Cantu, David Antonio; Hematti, Peiman

    2012-01-01

    Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) encapsulation within a biomatrix could improve cellular delivery and extend survival and residence time over conventional intravenous administration. Although MSCs modulate monocyte/macrophage (Mø) immunophenotypic properties, little is known about how such interactions are influenced when MSCs are entrapped within a biomaterial. Furthermore, the impact of the cell-encapsulating matrix on MSC multipotency and on Møs, which infiltrate biomaterials, remains poorly understood. Here we elucidate this three-way interaction. The Mø immunophenotype and MSC differentiation were examined with regard to established and experimental collagen-based biomaterials for MSC entrapment. Tumor necrosis factor-α secretion was acutely inhibited at 4 days. MSCs cocultured with Møs demonstrated attenuated chondrocyte differentiation, whereas osteoblast differentiation was enhanced. Adipocyte differentiation was considerably enhanced for MSCs entrapped within the gelatin/polyethylene glycol-based matrix. A better understanding of the effect of cell encapsulation on differentiation potency and immunomodulation of MSCs is essential for MSC-based, biomaterial-enabled therapies. PMID:23197666

  16. Nilotinib and Imatinib Are Comparably Effective in Reducing Growth of Human Eosinophil Leukemia Cells in a Newly Established Xenograft Model

    PubMed Central

    Salamon, Johannes; Thamer, Mohammed; Herrmann, Harald; Valent, Peter; Schumacher, Udo; Ullrich, Sebastian

    2012-01-01

    We developed a xenograft model of human Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia (CEL) to study disease progression and remission-induction under therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors using imatinib and nilotinib as examples. The FIP1L1/PDGFRA+ human CEL cell lineEOL-1 was injected intravenously into scid mice, and MR imaging and FACS analysis of mouse blood samples were performed to monitor disease development and the effects of imatinib and nilotinib. Organ infiltration was analyzed in detail by immunohistochemistry after sacrifice. All animals developed CEL and within one week of therapy, complete remissions were seen with both imatinib and nilotinib, resulting in reduced total tumor volumes by MR-imaging and almost complete disappearance of EOL-1 cells in the peripheral blood and in tissues. The new model system is feasible for the evaluation of new tyrosine kinase inhibitors and our data suggest that nilotinib may be a valuable additional targeted drug active in patients with FIP1L1/PDGFRA+ CEL. PMID:22348015

  17. Diverse Clinical Signs of Ocular Involvement in Cat Scratch Disease.

    PubMed

    Oray, Merih; Önal, Sumru; Koç Akbay, Aylin; Tuğal Tutkun, İlknur

    2017-01-01

    To describe ocular manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of cat scratch disease. Clinical records of patients with ocular cat scratch disease were reviewed. Thirteen eyes of 10 patients (7 female, 3 male) with a mean age of 26.9±18.5 years were included. Nine patients had a history of cat contact and had systemic symptoms associated with cat scratch disease 2-90 days prior to the ocular symptoms. Ocular signs were: neuroretinitis in 4 eyes (associated with serous retinal detachment in the inferior quadrant in 1 eye), optic neuropathy in 2 eyes (1 papillitis and optic disc infiltration, 1 optic neuritis), retinal infiltrates in 6 eyes, retinochoroiditis in 1 eye, branch retinal arteriolar occlusion in 3 eyes, and endophthalmitis in 1 eye. Visual acuities at presentation were 1.0 in 7 eyes, 0.3 in 1 eye, ≤0.1 in 4 eyes, and light perception in 1 eye. Bartonella henselae immunoglobulin (Ig) M and/or IgG were positive in all patients. Systemic antibiotic therapy was administered in all patients. Systemic corticosteroid treatment (15-40 mg/day) was added to the therapy in 4 patients, following 5 days of intravenous pulse methylprednisolone in 2 patients. Treatment was ongoing for 1 patient and the mean treatment duration of the other 9 patients was 47±14.5 days. Visual acuities at final visit were 1.0 in 9 eyes, 0.8 in 1 eye, 0.4 in 1 eye, and no light perception in 1 eye. Cat scratch disease may present with different ocular signs and should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with such presentations.

  18. REMOTE SENSING FOR DETECTING SWINE ANIMAL FEEDING OPERATIONS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Surface runoff from animal feeding operations (AFO's) and its infiltration into ground water can
    pose a number of risks to water quality mainly because of the amount of animal manure and wastewater they produce. Excess nutrients generated by livestock facilities can lead to a...

  19. Detection of atherosclerotic lesions and intimal macrophages using CD36-targeted nanovesicles

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Current approaches to the diagnosis and therapy of atherosclerosis cannot target to lesion-determinant cells in the artery wall. Intimal macrophage infiltration promotes atherosclerotic lesion development by facilitating the accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) and increasing in...

  20. An immunohistochemical analysis of canine haemangioma and haemangiosarcoma.

    PubMed

    Sabattini, S; Bettini, G

    2009-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to investigate immunohistochemically aspects of the biology of canine endothelial neoplasia. Forty samples of canine cutaneous and visceral haemangiosarcoma (HSA), 29 samples of cutaneous and visceral haemangioma (HA) and 10 control samples of granulation tissue (GT) were labelled with antisera specific for vimentin, smooth muscle actin, von Willebrand factor (vWF), CD117 (KIT), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3), vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGFC) and CD44. Further antisera were employed to determine the level of cellular proliferation (MIB-1 index) and toluidine blue staining was used to detect populations of tumour-infiltrating mast cells (MCs). There was greater expression of CD117, VEGFR-3 and CD44 in HSA than in HA, suggesting that these proteins might be suitable targets for the future development of novel therapeutic approaches to canine HSA. Marked infiltration of MC was detected in HA, suggesting a possible role for these cells in the pathogenesis of benign vascular neoplasia in the dog.

  1. Fate of pharmaceutical and trace organic compounds in three septic system plumes, Ontario, Canada.

    PubMed

    Carrara, Cherilyn; Ptacek, Carol J; Robertson, William D; Blowes, David W; Moncur, Michael C; Sverko, Ed; Backus, Sean

    2008-04-15

    Three high volume septic systems in Ontario, Canada, were examined to assess the potential for onsite wastewatertreatment systems to release pharmaceutical compounds to the environment and to evaluate the mobility of these compounds in receiving aquifers. Wastewater samples were collected from the septic tanks, and groundwater samples were collected below and down gradient of the infiltration beds and analyzed for a suite of commonly used pharmaceutical and trace organic compounds. The septic tank samples contained elevated concentrations of several pharmaceutical compounds. Ten of the 12 compounds analyzed were detected in groundwater at one or more sites at concentrations in the low ng L(-1) to low microg L(-1) range. Large differences among the sites were observed in both the number of detections and the concentrations of the pharmaceutical compounds. Of the compounds analyzed, ibuprofen, gemfibrozil, and naproxen were observed to be transported atthe highest concentrations and greatest distances from the infiltration source areas, particularly in anoxic zones of the plumes.

  2. [Histological classification: evaluation of resection specimens of EMR/ESD--response evaluation after neoadjuvant therapy].

    PubMed

    Munding, J; Ziebarth, W; Belyaev, O; Uhl, W; Tannapfel, A

    2013-12-01

    The surveillance of patients with Barrett mucosa in the distal oesophagus leads to an increase of patients diagnosed with early cancer of the oesophagogastric junction and stomach with only superficial infiltration. Comparable to Asian countries where screening of patients at risk is recommended due to the high incidence of gastric cancer, endoscopic resection of early cancer in the stomach and distal oesophagus is increasing. In spite of the special endoscopic techniques--there are several requirements for the resected specimen which ensure its exact pathohistological evaluation. This is necessary to detect the exact depth of infiltration and the resection margins. To provide an exact pathohistological diagnosis is important for further therapeutic implications and prognosis. Advanced carcinomas of the oesophagus and stomach need multimodal treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. This has a special impact on the tumour which leads to pathohistological detectable changes as estimated in the so-called regression grading. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  3. Magnetic resonance imaging in local staging of endometrial carcinoma: diagnostic performance, pitfalls, and literature review.

    PubMed

    Zandrino, Franco; La Paglia, Ernesto; Musante, Francesco

    2010-01-01

    To assess the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging in local staging of endometrial carcinoma, and to review the results and pitfalls described in the literature. Thirty women with a histological diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Unenhanced T2-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced Ti-weighted sequences were obtained. Hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy was performed in all patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were calculated for the detection of deep myometrial and cervical infiltration. For deep myometrial infiltration T2-weighted sequences reached a sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 76%, PPV of 73%, NVP of 87%, and accuracy of 80%, while contrast-enhanced scans reached a sensitivity of 90%, specificity of 80%, PPV of 82%, NPV of 89%, and accuracy of 85%. For cervical infiltration T2-weighted sequences reached a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 88%, PPV of 50%, NPV of 96%, and accuracy of 87%, while contrast-enhanced scans reached a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 94%, PPV of 75%, NPV of 100%, and accuracy of 95%. Unenhanced and dynamic gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance allows accurate assessment of myometrial and cervical infiltration. Information provided by magnetic resonance imaging can define prognosis and management.

  4. Accidental epidural injection of thiopental in a dog.

    PubMed

    O'Kell, Allison L; Ambros, Barbara

    2010-03-01

    A 3-year-old Labrador retriever was presented to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. While performing a pre-operative epidural, thiopental was inadvertently administered into the epidural space. Treatment included epidural saline flushing and intravenous methylprednisolone sodium succinate. No neurologic deficits were detected.

  5. Noninvasive quantification of human brain antioxidant concentrations after an intravenous bolus of vitamin C

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Background: Until now, antioxidant based initiatives for preventing dementia have lacked a means to detect deficiency or measure pharmacologic effect in the human brain in situ. Objective: Our objective was to apply a novel method to measure key human brain antioxidant concentrations throughout the ...

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

    Weishaupt, Dominik; Hilfiker, Paul R.; Schmidt, Michaela

    Purpose: To describe the three-dimensional magnetic resonance angiography (3D MRA) imaging appearance of the pulmonary arteries following administration of a superparamagnetic iron oxide blood pool agent to human volunteers, and to demonstrate in an animal model (pigs) how this technique can be used to detect pulmonary parenchymal hemorrhage. Methods: Two volunteers were examined following the intravenous administration of a superparamagnetic iron oxide blood pool agent (NC100150 Injection, Nycomed Amersham Imaging, Wayne, PA, USA). T1-weighted 3D gradient recalled echo (GRE) image sets (TR/TE 5.1/1.4 msec, flip angle 30 deg.) were acquired breathheld over 24 sec. To assess the detectability of pulmonarymore » bleeding with intravascular MR contrast, pulmonary parenchymal injuries were created in two animals under general anesthesia, and fast T1-weighted 3D GRE image sets collected before and after the injury. Results: Administration of the intravascular contrast in the two volunteers resulted in selective enhancement of the pulmonary vasculature permitting complete visualization and excellent delineation of central, segmental, and subsegmental arteries. Following iatrogenic injury in the two animals, pulmonary hemorrhage was readily detected on the 3D image sets. Conclusion: The data presented illustrate that ultrafast 3D GRE MR imaging in conjunction with an intravenously administered intravascular blood pool agent can be used to perform high-quality pulmonary MRA as well as to detect pulmonary hemorrhage.« less

  7. Noninvasive detection of coronary artery bypass graft patency by intravenous electron beam computed tomographic angiography.

    PubMed

    Yamakami, Shoji; Toyama, Junji; Okamoto, Mitsuhiro; Matsushita, Toyoaki; Murakami, Yoshimasa; Ogata, Masaki; Ito, Shigenori; Fukutomi, Tatsuya; Okayama, Naotsuka; Itoh, Makoto

    2003-11-01

    This study evaluates the usefullness of intravenous electron beam computed tomographic angiography (EBA) for the detection of coronary artery bypass graft patency in 43 patients (33 men and 10 women, mean age, 65 years) who had coronary artery bypass graft surgery. EBA was performed a few days before selective bypass graft angiography (SGA). Forty axial cross-sections of angiographic images of the heart were acquired consecutively by an electrocardiographic trigger signal at 40% of the RR interval, which corresponds to the end-systolic phase. EBA data were reconstructed as a three-dimensional shaded surface display of the heart and bypass grafts. Detectability of the patency of bypass gratis was evaluated, taking selective angiographic images of the bypass grafts as a gold standard. One hundred and nine grafts (96%) out of 114 grafts were subjected to evaluation: 37 grafts were left internal mammary artery grafts (LIMA), 7 were right internal mammary artery grafts (RIMA), 6 were gastroepiploic artery grafts (GEA), 7 were free gastroepiploic artery grafts with venous drainage (free-GEA), 7 were radial artery grafts (RAG), and 45 were saphenous vein gratis (SVG). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of EBA were 98%, 100%, 100%, 91%, and 98%, respectively. EBA sampled at the end-systolic period was determined to be useful for the detection of coronary artery bypass graft patency and occlusion.

  8. Hydrogeologic data and water-quality data from a thick unsaturated zone at a proposed wastewater-treatment facility site, Yucca Valley, San Bernardino County, California, 2008-11

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    O'Leary, David; Clark, Dennis A.; Izbicki, John A.

    2015-01-01

    Water levels in the observation well ranged from about 367 to 370 feet below land surface during the period of the study. Measured saturated hydraulic conductivity of core material ranged from 2.1 to 11.0 feet per day. Average vertical infiltration rates in the pilot-scale infiltration pond ranged from 0.7 to 2.4 feet per day. Both denitrifying and nitrate-reducing bacteria were present in drill cutting material in most probable numbers ranging from below detection limits to 2,400,000 for denitrifying and to 93,000 for nitrate-reducing bacteria.

  9. Rare Earth Fluorescent Nanomaterials for Enhanced Development of Latent Fingerprints.

    PubMed

    Wang, Meng; Li, Ming; Yu, Aoyang; Wu, Jian; Mao, Chuanbin

    2015-12-30

    The most commonly found fingerprints at crime scenes are latent and, thus, an efficient method for detecting latent fingerprints is very important. However, traditional developing techniques have drawbacks such as low developing sensitivity, high background interference, complicated operation, and high toxicity. To tackle this challenge, we have synthesized two kinds of rare earth fluorescent nanomaterials, including the fluoresce red-emitting YVO4:Eu nanocrystals and green-emitting LaPO4:Ce,Tb nanobelts, and then used them as fluorescent labels for the development of latent fingerprints with high sensitivity, high contrast, high selectivity, high efficiency, and low background interference, on various substrates including noninfiltrating materials, semi-infiltrating materials, and infiltrating materials.

  10. Clinical impact of stress dose steroids in patients with septic shock: insights from the PROWESS-Shock trial.

    PubMed

    Póvoa, Pedro; Salluh, Jorge I F; Martinez, Maria L; Guillamat-Prats, Raquel; Gallup, Dianne; Al-Khalidi, Hussein R; Thompson, B Taylor; Ranieri, V Marco; Artigas, Antonio

    2015-04-28

    The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical impact of the administration of intravenous steroids, alone or in conjunction with drotrecogin-alfa (activated) (DrotAA), on the outcomes in septic shock patients. We performed a sub-study of the PROWESS-Shock trial (septic shock patients who received fluids and vasopressors above a predefined threshold for at least 4 hours were randomized to receive either DrotAA or placebo for 96 hours). A propensity score for the administration of intravenous steroids for septic shock at baseline was constructed using multivariable logistic regression. Cox proportional hazards model using inverse probability of treatment weighting of the propensity score was used to estimate the effect of intravenous steroids, alone or in conjunction with DrotAA, on 28-day and 90-day all-cause mortality. A total of 1695 patients were enrolled of which 49.5% received intravenous steroids for treatment of septic shock at baseline (DrotAA + steroids N = 436; DrotAA + no steroids N = 414; placebo + steroids N = 403; placebo + no steroids N = 442). The propensity weighted risk of 28-day as well as 90-day mortality in those treated vs. those not treated with steroids did not differ among those randomized to DrotAA vs. placebo (interaction p-value = 0.38 and p = 0.27, respectively) nor was a difference detected within each randomized treatment. Similarly, the course of vasopressor use and cardiovascular SOFA did not appear to be influenced by steroid therapy. In patients with lung infection (N = 744), abdominal infection (N = 510), Gram-positive sepsis (N = 420) and Gram-negative sepsis (N = 461), the propensity weighted risk of 28-day as well as 90-day mortality in those treated vs. those not treated with steroids did not differ among those randomized to DrotAA vs. placebo nor was a difference detected within each randomized treatment. In the present study of septic shock patients, after adjustment for treatment selection bias, we were unable to find noticeable positive impact from intravenous steroids for treatment of septic shock at baseline either in patients randomized for DrotAA or placebo. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00604214 . Registered 24 January 2008.

  11. Topical EMLA cream versus prilocaine infiltration for pediatric cardiac catheterization.

    PubMed

    Pirat, Arash; Karaaslan, Pelin; Candan, Selim; Zeyneloglu, Pinar; Varan, Birgul; Tokel, Kursat; Torgay, Adnan; Arslan, Gulnaz

    2005-10-01

    The aim of this study was to compare the anesthetic efficacy of prilocaine infiltration and a eutectic mixture of local anesthetics (EMLA) in cream for femoral vessel catheterization during pediatric cardiac catheterization and to evaluate whether EMLA cream application improves cannulation success. Prospective, randomized clinical trial. A university hospital. Forty American Society of Anesthesiologists class III and IV children scheduled for cardiac catheterization via the femoral route were included. The children were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The EMLA group (n = 20) had EMLA cream applied to the groin 60 minutes before the procedure, and the control group (n = 20) had prilocaine infiltrated at the site 5 minutes before the procedure. Boluses of intravenous midazolam, 0.1 mg/kg, and/or ketamine, 1 mg/kg, were given to achieve and maintain a predetermined sedation score of 2-3 (0 = deeply sedated, 5 = agitated) throughout the procedure (sedation monitored every 5 minutes). The groups were compared with respect to demographic data, hemodynamic and respiratory parameters/complications, amounts of additional sedative-analgesics required, cannulation time, and cannulation results (first-attempt success [right groin], second-attempt success [left groin], or failure on both attempts). Each group's "overall cannulation success rate" was calculated as the proportion of cases in which cannulation was achieved on the first or second attempt. The demographic data and the group findings for hemodynamic and respiratory parameters/complications, additional amounts of sedative-analgesics needed, cannulation times, and overall cannulation success rate were similar. The mean sedation score during femoral puncture in the EMLA group was significantly lower than that in the control group (3 +/- 1 v 4 +/- 1, respectively, p = 0.001). There were no other significant differences between the groups with respect to sedation scores during the procedure. The respective frequencies of first-attempt cannulation success in the EMLA and control groups were 75% and 45% (p = 0.05). The study showed that EMLA cream provides adequate topical anesthesia for femoral vessel cannulation during pediatric cardiac catheterization and may also increase the likelihood of cannulation success. However, use of this cream has no effect on sedative-analgesic requirements or on the risks of hemodynamic and respiratory complications during this procedure.

  12. Examining the safety of respiratory and intravenous inoculation of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus and Micavibrio aeruginosavorus in a mouse model.

    PubMed

    Shatzkes, Kenneth; Chae, Richard; Tang, Chi; Ramirez, Gregory C; Mukherjee, Somdatta; Tsenova, Liana; Connell, Nancy D; Kadouri, Daniel E

    2015-08-07

    Bdellovibrio spp. and Micavibrio spp. are Gram-negative predators that feed on other Gram-negative bacteria, making predatory bacteria potential alternatives to antibiotics for treating multi-drug resistant infections. While the ability of predatory bacteria to control bacterial infections in vitro is well documented, the in vivo effect of predators on a living host has yet to be extensively examined. In this study, respiratory and intravenous inoculations were used to determine the effects of predatory bacteria in mice. We found no reduction in mouse viability after intranasal or intravenous inoculation of B. bacteriovorus 109J, HD100 or M. aeruginosavorus. Introducing predators into the respiratory tract of mice provoked a modest inflammatory response at 1 hour post-exposure, but was not sustained at 24 hours, as measured by RT-qPCR and ELISA. Intravenous injection caused an increase of IL-6 in the kidney and spleen, TNF in the liver and CXCL-1/KC in the blood at 3 hours post-exposure, returning to baseline levels by 18 hours. Histological analysis of tissues showed no pathological changes due to predatory bacteria. Furthermore, qPCR detected predators were cleared from the host quickly and efficiently. This work addresses some of the safety concerns regarding the potential use of predatory bacteria as a live antibiotic.

  13. Rabbit Model for Human EBV-Associated Hemophagocytic Syndrome (HPS)

    PubMed Central

    Hayashi, Kazuhiko; Jin, Zaishun; Onoda, Sachiyo; Joko, Hiromasa; Teramoto, Norihiro; Ohara, Nobuya; Oda, Wakako; Tanaka, Takehiro; Liu, Yi-Xuan; Koirala, Tirtha Raj; Oka, Takashi; Kondo, Eisaku; Yoshino, Tadashi; Takahashi, Kiyoshi; Akagi, Tadaatsu

    2003-01-01

    Epstein-Barr virus-associated hemophagocytic syndrome (EBV-AHS) is often associated with fatal infectious mononucleosis or T-cell lymphoproliferative diseases (LPD). To elucidate the true nature of fatal LPD observed in Herpesvirus papio (HVP)-induced rabbit hemophagocytosis, reactive or neoplastic, we analyzed sequential development of HVP-induced rabbit LPD and their cell lines. All of the seven Japanese White rabbits inoculated intravenously with HVP died of fatal LPD 18 to 27 days after inoculation. LPD was also accompanied by hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) in five of these seven rabbits. Sequential autopsy revealed splenomegaly and swollen lymph nodes, often accompanied by bleeding, which developed in the last week. Atypical lymphoid cells infiltrated many organs with a “starry sky” pattern, frequently involving the spleen, lymph nodes, and liver. HVP-small RNA-1 expression in these lymphoid cells was clearly demonstrated by a newly developed in situ hybridization (ISH) system. HVP-ISH of immunomagnetically purified lymphoid cells from spleen or lymph nodes revealed HVP-EBER1+ cells in each CD4+, CD8+, or CD79a+ fraction. Hemophagocytic histiocytosis was observed in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and thymus. HVP-DNA was detected in the tissues and peripheral blood from the infected rabbits by PCR or Southern blot analysis. Clonality analysis of HVP-induced LPD by Southern blotting with TCR gene probe revealed polyclonal bands, suggesting polyclonal proliferation. Six IL-2-dependent rabbit T-cell lines were established from transplanted scid mouse tumors from LPD. These showed latency type I/II HVP infection and had normal karyotypes except for one line, and three of them showed tumorigenicity in nude mice. These data suggest that HVP-induced fatal LPD in rabbits is reactive polyclonally in nature. PMID:12707056

  14. Ultrasound-guided rectus sheath and transversus abdominis plane blocks for perioperative analgesia in upper abdominal surgery: A randomized controlled study.

    PubMed

    Abdelsalam, Khaled; Mohamdin, O W

    2016-01-01

    Regional anesthetic techniques can be used to alleviate postoperative pain in patients undergoing major upper abdominal surgery. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of bilateral ultrasound (US)-guided rectus sheath (RS) and transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks for better perioperative analgesia. It is a prospective, observer-blinded, randomized clinical study. 40 eligible patients undergoing elective liver resection or Whipple procedure were included. All patients received a standardized anesthetic technique. Group 1 (n = 20) received preincisional US-guided bilateral RS and TAP blocks using 20 ml volume of bupivacaine 0.25% for each, and group 2 (n = 20) received local wound infiltration at end of surgery with 40 ml of bupivacaine 0.25%. A standardized postoperative analgesic regimen composed of intravenous paracetamol and a morphine patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). The use of intraoperative fentanyl and recovery room morphine boluses, PCA-administered morphine, pain scores as well as number of patients' experienced postoperative nausea and vomiting in the ward at 6 and 24 h were recorded. Group 1 patients received a significantly lower cumulative intraoperative fentanyl, significantly lesser boluses of morphine in postanesthesia care unit, as well, significantly lower cumulative 24 h postoperative morphine dosage than the group 2 patients. Pain visual analog scale scores were significantly lower at both 6 and 24 h postoperatively in TAP group when compared with the no-TAP group. There were no complications related to the TAP block procedures. No signs or symptoms of local anesthetic systemic toxicity were detected. The combination of bilateral US-guided RS and TAP blocks provides excellent perioperative analgesia for major upper abdominal surgery.

  15. [Pulmonary intravascular talcosis: A case report].

    PubMed

    Reverso-Meinietti, J; Vandenbos, F; Risso, K; Coyne, J; Leroy, S; Padovani, B; Burel-Vandenbos, F

    2018-04-09

    Pulmonary intravascular talcosis is a rare condition occurring in intravenous drug users injecting oral medications. Talc results in a foreign-body granulomatous reaction giving a radiological haematogenic miliary appearance mimicking miliary tuberculosis. Drug users represent a population at risk for both these conditions and their distinction may be challenging. We reported the case of a man, 33 year-old, intravenous drug addict, detected by the health services because he was the partner of a person who died of contagious and multi-resistant tuberculosis. Chest X-ray and CT scan showed a typical miliary appearance. Despite negative microbiology, clinical diagnosis of miliary tuberculosis was retained. Due to the lack of radiological improvement despite appropriate antibiotic treatment, re-evaluation and trans-bronchial biopsy were undertaken. The presence of granulomas centered by birefringent foreign bodies in polarized light led to a diagnosis of pulmonary intravascular talcosis. In the presence of pulmonary miliary in an intravenous drug addict, intravascular talcosis should be suspected. Copyright © 2018 Société Nationale Française de Médecine Interne (SNFMI). Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

  16. Comparative pharmacokinetics study of orientin in rat plasma by UHPLC-MS/MS after intravenous administration of single orientin and Trollius chinensis Bunge extract.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Nan; Sun, Qi; Song, Yang; Wang, Lin; Zhang, Tingjian; Meng, Fanhao

    2018-04-01

    Orientin showed a broad array of biological activities, and it is the major bioactive compound in the Trollius chinensis Bunge. The aim of this study was to investigate the comparative pharmacokinetics of orientin after intravenous administration of single orientin and T. chinensis Bunge extract. Sample preparation involved a simple one-step deproteinization procedure with acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Waters BEH C 18 column with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and water containing 0.1% formic acid in an isocratic elution way. The detection was accomplished in multiple reaction monitoring mode with positive electrospray ionization. The pharmacokinetic properties of orientin were compared after intravenous administrations of pure orientin and T. chinensis Bunge extract to rats with approximately the same dosage of 10 mg/kg. The results of the study indicate that the pharmacokinetics of orientin in rat plasma show significant differences between two groups. This is useful for the clinical uses of therapeutic dosing of orientin and T. chinensis Bunge. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  17. Cocaine and metabolite concentrations in DBS and venous blood after controlled intravenous cocaine administration

    PubMed Central

    Ellefsen, Kayla N; da Costa, Jose Luiz; Concheiro, Marta; Anizan, Sebastien; Barnes, Allan J; Pirard, Sandrine; Gorelick, David A; Huestis, Marilyn A

    2015-01-01

    Background: DBS are an increasingly common clinical matrix. Methods & results: Sensitive and specific methods for DBS and venous blood cocaine and metabolite detection by LC–HRMS and 2D GC–MS, respectively, were validated to examine correlation between concentrations following controlled intravenous cocaine administration. Linear ranges from 1 to 200 µg/l were achieved, with acceptable bias and imprecision. Authentic matched specimens’ (392 DBS, 97 venous blood) cocaine and benzoylecgonine concentrations were qualitatively similar, but DBS had much greater variability (21.4–105.9 %CV) and were lower than in blood. Conclusion: DBS offer advantages for monitoring cocaine intake; however, differences between capillary and venous blood and DBS concentration variability must be addressed. PMID:26327184

  18. Pharmacokinetic behaviour of phenylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) (PGBG) after intravenous administration in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Rodríguez, C; San Andrés, M I; San Andrés, M D; Encinas, T; González, F; Ballesteros, E

    2001-04-01

    Phenylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) (PGBG) is a synthesized analogue of methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) (MGBG), which has demonstrated anti-parasitic activity in rabbits. The pharmacokinetic behaviour of PGBG after intravenous administration (10 mg/kg bodyweight) was studied in five rabbits. Plasma concentrations of PGBG were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Plasma PGBG concentrations decreased rapidly and were not detectable beyond 90 min after treatment. The mean [+/- standard deviation (SD)] volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss) was 2.19 +/- 0.47 l/kg and the mean plasma clearance value (Cl) was 29.99 +/- 3.98 ml/min kg. This drug is rapidly eliminated from the body in rabbits, having a short elimination half-life (0.93 h) and mean residence time (1.21 h).

  19. Resveratrol Targets AKT and p53 in Glioblastoma and Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells to Suppress Growth and Infiltration

    PubMed Central

    Clark, Paul A.; Bhattacharya, Saswati; Elmayan, Ardem; Darjatmoko, Soesiawati R.; Thuro, Bradley A.; Yan, Michael B.; van Ginkel, Paul R.; Polans, Arthur S.; Kuo, John S.

    2016-01-01

    Object Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer with median survival of less than two years with current treatment. GBM exhibits extensive intra-tumor and inter-patient heterogeneity, suggesting that successful therapies should exert broad anti-cancer activities. Therefore, the natural non-toxic pleiotropic agent, resveratrol, was studied for anti-tumorigenic effects against GBM. Methods Resveratrol’s effects on cell proliferation, sphere-forming ability, and invasion were tested using multiple patient-derived GBM stem-like cell (GSC) lines and established U87 glioma cells, and changes in oncogenic AKT and tumor suppressive p53 were analyzed. Resveratrol was also tested in vivo against U87 glioma flank xenografts using multiple delivery methods, including direct tumor injection. Finally, resveratrol was delivered directly to brain tissue to determine toxicity and achievable drug concentrations in the brain parenchyma. Results Resveratrol significantly inhibited proliferation in U87 glioma and multiple patient-derived GSC lines, demonstrating similar inhibitory concentrations across these phenotypically heterogeneous lines. Resveratrol also inhibited the sphere-forming ability of GSCs, suggesting anti-stem cell effects. Additionally, resveratrol blocked U87 glioma and GSC invasion in an in vitro Matrigel transwell assay at doses similar to those mediating anti-proliferative effects. In U87 glioma cells and GSCs, resveratrol reduced AKT phosphorylation and induced p53 expression and activation that led to transcription of downstream p53 target genes. Resveratrol administration via oral gavage or ad libitum in the water supply significantly suppressed GBM xenograft growth; intra-tumor or peri-tumor resveratrol injection further suppressed growth and approximating tumor regression. Intracranial resveratrol injection resulted in 100-fold higher local drug concentration compared to intravenous delivery, and with no apparent toxicity. Conclusions Resveratrol potently inhibited GBM and GBM stem-like cell growth and infiltration, acting partially via AKT deactivation and p53 induction, and suppressed glioblastoma growth in vivo. The ability of resveratrol to modulate AKT and p53, as well as reportedly many other anti-tumorigenic pathways, is attractive for therapy against a genetically heterogeneous tumor such as GBM. Although resveratrol exhibits low bioavailability when administered orally or intravenously, novel delivery methods such as direct injection (i.e. convection enhanced delivery) could potentially be used to achieve and maintain therapeutic doses in brain. Resveratrol’s non-toxic nature and broad anti-GBM effects make it a compelling candidate to supplement current GBM therapies. PMID:27419830

  20. Design of vein finder with multi tuning wavelength using RGB LED

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chandra, Franky; Wahyudianto, Aries; Yasin, M.

    2017-05-01

    Detection of intra vena is very important technique in the medical clinic applications. For intravenous detection, some nurses usually have a mistake which can cause a pain or injured to the patient. When the nurses are headed with this problem, it becomes dangerous for the patient. To solve the problem, in this paper, vein finder with multi-tuning wavelength for intra vena detection is proposed and investigated. Vein finder is tested to various skin colour and body mass. The results show that vein finder was successfully designed with controllable wavelength in the range of 600-696 nm using RGB LED.

  1. Substantial Targeting Advantage Achieved by Pulmonary Administration of Colistin Methanesulfonate in a Large-Animal Model

    PubMed Central

    Nguyen, Tri-Hung; Lieu, Linh Thuy; Nguyen, Gary; Bischof, Robert J.; Meeusen, Els N.; Li, Jian; Nation, Roger L.

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Colistin, administered as its inactive prodrug colistin methanesulfonate (CMS), is often used in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pulmonary infections. The CMS and colistin pharmacokinetics in plasma and epithelial lining fluid (ELF) following intravenous and pulmonary dosing have not been evaluated in a large-animal model with pulmonary architecture similar to that of humans. Six merino sheep (34 to 43 kg body weight) received an intravenous or pulmonary dose of 4 to 8 mg/kg CMS (sodium) or 2 to 3 mg/kg colistin (sulfate) in a 4-way crossover study. Pulmonary dosing was achieved via jet nebulization through an endotracheal tube cuff. CMS and colistin were quantified in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). ELF concentrations were calculated via the urea method. CMS and colistin were comodeled in S-ADAPT. Following intravenous CMS or colistin administration, no concentrations were quantifiable in BALF samples. Elimination clearance was 1.97 liters/h (4% interindividual variability) for CMS (other than conversion to colistin) and 1.08 liters/h (25%) for colistin. On average, 18% of a CMS dose was converted to colistin. Following pulmonary delivery, colistin was not quantifiable in plasma and CMS was detected in only one sheep. Average ELF concentrations (standard deviations [SD]) of formed colistin were 400 (243), 384 (187), and 184 (190) mg/liter at 1, 4, and 24 h after pulmonary CMS administration. The population pharmacokinetic model described well CMS and colistin in plasma and ELF following intravenous and pulmonary administration. Pulmonary dosing provided high ELF and low plasma colistin concentrations, representing a substantial targeting advantage over intravenous administration. Predictions from the pharmacokinetic model indicate that sheep are an advantageous model for translational research. PMID:27821445

  2. Amniotic membrane traps and induces apoptosis of inflammatory cells in ocular surface chemical burn

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Ting; Zhai, Hualei; Xu, Yuanyuan; Dong, Yanling; Sun, Yajie; Zang, Xinjie

    2012-01-01

    Purpose Severe chemical burns can cause necrosis of ocular surface tissues following the infiltration of inflammatory cells. It has been shown that amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) is an effective treatment for severe chemical burns, but the phenotypes of cells that infiltrate the amniotic membrane and the clinical significance of these cellular infiltrations have not previously been reported. The present work studies the inflammation cell traps and apoptosis inducing roles of the amniotic membrane after AMT in patients with acute chemical burns. Methods A total of 30 patients with acute alkaline burns were classified as having either moderate or severe burns. In all participants, AMT was performed within one week of his/her injury. After 7–9 days, the transplanted amniotic membranes were removed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques were used for the examination and detection of infiltrating cells, and tests for the expression of CD (cluster of differentiation)15, CD68, CD3, CD20, CD57, CD31, CD147, and CD95 (Fas) were performed. A TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) assay was used to confirm apoptosis of the infiltrating cells. Three patients with herpes simplex-induced keratitis who had undergone AMT to treat persistent epithelium defects were used as a control group. Amniotic membrane before transplantation was used as another control. Results After amniotic membrane transplantation, the number of infiltrating cells in patients with severe burns was significantly higher than in patients with moderate burns or in control patients (p<0.05). Among the severe burns patients, CD15 and CD68 were widely expressed in the infiltrating cells, and CD3, CD20, and CD57 were only found in a small number of cells. Occasionally, CD31-positive cells were found in the amniotic membranes. More cells that were CD147, Fas, and TUNEL positive were found in patients with severe burns than in patients with moderate burns or in control patients. Conclusions Neutrophils and macrophages were the main cells that had infiltrated into the amniotic membrane during the acute phase of healing from a chemical burns. AMT can trap different inflammatory cells and induce apoptosis of inflammatory cells in acute ocular chemical burns. PMID:22876141

  3. Water-quality assessment of the Rio Grande Valley, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas : shallow ground-water quality and land use in the Albuquerque area, central New Mexico, 1993

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Anderholm, Scott K.

    1997-01-01

    This report describes the quality of shallow ground water and the relations between land use and the quality of that shallow ground water in an urban area in and adjacent to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Water samples were collected from 24 shallow wells. Samples were analyzed for selected common constituents, nutrients, trace elements, radionuclides, volatile organic compounds, and pesticides. The study area, which is in the Albuquerque Basin in central New Mexico, was limited to the Rio Grande flood plain; depth to water in this area generally is less than 25 feet. The amount and composition of recharge to the shallow ground-water system are important factors that affect shallow ground-water composition in this area. Important sources of recharge that affect shallow ground-water quality in the area include infiltration of surface water, which is used in agricultural land-use areas to irrigate crops, and infiltration of septic-system effluent in residential areas. Agricultural land use represents about 28 percent of the area, and residential land use represents about 35 percent of the total study area. In most of the study area, agricultural land use is interspersed with residential land use and neither is the dominant land use in the area. Land use in the study area historically has been changing from agricultural to urban. The composition of shallow ground water in the study area varies considerably. The dissolved solids concentration in shallow ground water in the study area ranges from 272 to 1,650 milligrams per liter, although the relative percentages of selected cations and anions do not vary substantially. Calcium generally is the dominant cation and bicarbonate generally is the dominant anion. Concentrations of nutrients generally were less than 1 milligram per liter. The concentration of many trace elements in shallow ground water was below or slightly above 1 microgram per liter and there was little variation in the concentrations. Barium, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and uranium were the only trace elements analyzed for that had median concentrations greater than 5 micrograms per liter. Volatile organic compounds were detected in 5 of 24 samples. Cis-1,2-dichloroethene and 1,1-dichloroethane were the most commonly detected volatile organic compounds (detected in two samples each). Pesticides were detected in 8 of 24 samples. Prometon was the most commonly detected pesticide (detected in 5 of 24 samples). Concentrations of volatile organic compounds and pesticides detected were much smaller than any U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards that have been established. Infiltration of surface water and the evaporation or transpiration of this water, which partially is the result of past and present agricultural land use, seem to affect the concentrations of common constituents in shallow ground water in the study area. The small excess chloride in shallow ground water relative to surface water that has been affected by evaporation or transpiration could be due to mixing of shallow ground water with small amounts of precipitation/bulk deposition or septic-system effluent. Infiltration of septic-system effluent (residential land use) has affected the shallow ground-water composition in parts of the study area on the basis of the small dissolved oxygen concentrations, large dissolved organic carbon concentrations, and excess chloride. Despite the loading of nitrogen to the shallow ground-water system as the result of infiltration of septic-system effluent, the small nitrogen concentrations in shallow ground water probably are due to the small dissolved oxygen concentrations and relatively large dissolved organic carbon concentrations. The small concentrations and lack of variation of most trace elements indicate that land use has not substantially affected the concentration

  4. High-resolution contrast-enhanced optical coherence tomography in mice retinae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sen, Debasish; SoRelle, Elliott D.; Liba, Orly; Dalal, Roopa; Paulus, Yannis M.; Kim, Tae-Wan; Moshfeghi, Darius M.; de la Zerda, Adam

    2016-06-01

    Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive interferometric imaging modality providing anatomical information at depths of millimeters and a resolution of micrometers. Conventional OCT images limit our knowledge to anatomical structures alone, without any contrast enhancement. Therefore, here we have, for the first time, optimized an OCT-based contrast-enhanced imaging system for imaging single cells and blood vessels in vivo inside the living mouse retina at subnanomolar sensitivity. We used bioconjugated gold nanorods (GNRs) as exogenous OCT contrast agents. Specifically, we used anti-mouse CD45 coated GNRs to label mouse leukocytes and mPEG-coated GNRs to determine sensitivity of GNR detection in vivo inside mice retinae. We corroborated OCT observations with hyperspectral dark-field microscopy of formalin-fixed histological sections. Our results show that mouse leukocytes that otherwise do not produce OCT contrast can be labeled with GNRs leading to significant OCT intensity equivalent to a 0.5 nM GNR solution. Furthermore, GNRs injected intravenously can be detected inside retinal blood vessels at a sensitivity of ˜0.5 nM, and GNR-labeled cells injected intravenously can be detected inside retinal capillaries by enhanced OCT contrast. We envision the unprecedented resolution and sensitivity of functionalized GNRs coupled with OCT to be adopted for longitudinal studies of retinal disorders.

  5. Polymerase chain reaction-based detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid for the diagnosis of pneumocystis pneumonia.

    PubMed

    Oren, Ilana; Hardak, Emilia; Finkelstein, Renato; Yigla, Mordechai; Sprecher, Hannah

    2011-09-01

    The diagnosis of pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected immunocompromised patients is notoriously difficult. The recent advent of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based detection systems, based on the identification of single fungal genes, has markedly improved diagnostic accuracy in this ominous disease. In an attempt to further improve diagnostic yield, the authors used a PCR-based detection system for Pneumocystis jirovecii, based on targeting 3 distinct genes. During the 4-year period (January 2005 to January 2009), all consecutive immunocompromised patients suspected of having PCP in the differential diagnosis underwent bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage sampling for the evaluation of the etiology of pulmonary infiltrates. Bronchoalveolar fluid was tested for the presence of a wide variety of possible etiological microorganisms. In a cohort of 214 immunocompromised patients (of which 198 were non-HIV immunocompromised patients) who underwent bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage for evaluation of pulmonary infiltrates, PCR correctly diagnosed PCP in 75% (42/56) compared with 14% (8/56) diagnosed by traditional stains, and increased diagnostic yield 5.4-fold. Given the absence of a sensitive gold standard, this study demonstrates the usefulness of a multigene PCR-based detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii DNA for supporting the clinical diagnosis of PCP, with high sensitivity and negative predictive value rates compared with direct stains, especially in non-HIV immunocompromised patients.

  6. Distinct disease phases in muscles of facioscapulohumeral dystrophy patients identified by MR detected fat infiltration.

    PubMed

    Janssen, Barbara H; Voet, Nicoline B M; Nabuurs, Christine I; Kan, Hermien E; de Rooy, Jacky W J; Geurts, Alexander C; Padberg, George W; van Engelen, Baziel G M; Heerschap, Arend

    2014-01-01

    Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an untreatable disease, characterized by asymmetric progressive weakness of skeletal muscle with fatty infiltration. Although the main genetic defect has been uncovered, the downstream mechanisms causing FSHD are not understood. The objective of this study was to determine natural disease state and progression in muscles of FSHD patients and to establish diagnostic biomarkers by quantitative MRI of fat infiltration and phosphorylated metabolites. MRI was performed at 3T with dedicated coils on legs of 41 patients (28 men/13 women, age 34-76 years), of which eleven were re-examined after four months of usual care. Muscular fat fraction was determined with multi spin-echo and T1 weighted MRI, edema by TIRM and phosphorylated metabolites by 3D (31)P MR spectroscopic imaging. Fat fractions were compared to clinical severity, muscle force, age, edema and phosphocreatine (PCr)/ATP. Longitudinal intramuscular fat fraction variation was analyzed by linear regression. Increased intramuscular fat correlated with age (p<0.05), FSHD severity score (p<0.0001), inversely with muscle strength (p<0.0001), and also occurred sub-clinically. Muscles were nearly dichotomously divided in those with high and with low fat fraction, with only 13% having an intermediate fat fraction. The intramuscular fat fraction along the muscle's length, increased from proximal to distal. This fat gradient was the steepest for intermediate fat infiltrated muscles (0.07±0.01/cm, p<0.001). Leg muscles in this intermediate phase showed a decreased PCr/ATP (p<0.05) and the fastest increase in fatty infiltration over time (0.18±0.15/year, p<0.001), which correlated with initial edema (p<0.01), if present. Thus, in the MR assessment of fat infiltration as biomarker for diseased muscles, the intramuscular fat distribution needs to be taken into account. Our results indicate that healthy individual leg muscles become diseased by entering a progressive phase with distal fat infiltration and altered energy metabolite levels. Fat replacement then relatively rapidly spreads over the whole muscle.

  7. COMPARISON OF ANOVA AND KRIGING IN DETECTING ANT RESPONSES TO ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS

    EPA Science Inventory

    In an ecosystems, ants effect ecosystem functions such as water infiltration, soil nutrient distribution and composition of the soil seed bank. Ants have also been used as indicators of ecosystems health. In a study, we hypothesized that some ant species would respond to changes ...

  8. Accidental epidural injection of thiopental in a dog

    PubMed Central

    O’Kell, Allison L.; Ambros, Barbara

    2010-01-01

    A 3-year-old Labrador retriever was presented to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. While performing a pre-operative epidural, thiopental was inadvertently administered into the epidural space. Treatment included epidural saline flushing and intravenous methylprednisolone sodium succinate. No neurologic deficits were detected. PMID:20514256

  9. Sivelestat sodium hydrate attenuates acute lung injury by decreasing systemic inflammation in a rat model of severe burns.

    PubMed

    Xiao, X-G; Zu, H-G; Li, Q-G; Huang, P

    2016-01-01

    Patients with severe burns often develop acute lung injury (ALI), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) often complicates with ALI. Sivelestat sodium hydrate is an effective drug against ALI. However, the mechanisms of this beneficial effect are still poorly understood. In the current study, we evaluate the effects of sivelestat sodium hydrate on systemic and local inflammatory parameters (neutrophil elastase [NE], interleukin [IL]-8, matrix metalloproteinase [MMP] 2 and 9) in a rat model of severe burns and ALI. And to analyze the correlations between expression of NE and IL-8 and acute lung injury. 48 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into 3 groups: normal control group, severe burns injury group and severe burns treated with sivelestat sodium hydrate group (SSI). The lung water content and PaO2 were detected in each group. Pathological manifestations in each group were observed for pathology scoring in SD rats with acute lung injury. ELISA was used for detecting expression of NE and IL-8 in serum and BAL specimens of SD rats in each group. RT-PCR was used to detect mRNA expression of NE and IL-8 in lung tissues of each group. Western blotting was used for detecting protein expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in lung tissues of each group. SPSS 18.0 was used for statistical analysis. The PaO2 was significantly increased after sivelestat sodium hydrate intravenous injection. Pathological score and water content of lung tissue were significantly decreased in SSI group compared with severe burns injury group, slightly higher than that normal control group. NE and IL-8 levels significantly decreased in serum, BAL and lung tissue specimens after sivelestat sodium hydrate intravenous injection; Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were significantly up-regulated in severe burns group and showed no significantly changed after sivelestat sodium hydrate intravenous injection. In a rat model of severe burns and ALI, administration of sivelestat sodium hydrate improved symptoms of ALI and significantly decreased inflammatory parameters NE and IL-8.

  10. Diagnosis of malignancy of adult mediastinal tumors by conventional and transesophageal echocardiography.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Wei-Wei; Wang, Hong-Wei; Liu, Nan-Nan; Li, Jing-Jing; Yuan, Wei; Zhao, Rui; Xiang, Liang-Bi; Qi, Miao

    2015-04-20

    Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a well-established method for detecting and diagnosing heart tumors. In contrast, its role in assessing the presence, growth and evidence of malignant tumors originating from mediastinal sites remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic impact of TEE and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for determining the localization, growth and malignancy of adult mediastinal tumors (MTs). In a prospective and investigator-blinded study, we evaluated 144 consecutive patients with MT lesions to assess the diagnostic impact of TEE and TTE for detecting the presence of tumors spreading both inside and outside of the heart and for determining infiltration and invasion using pathological examination results as a reference. All tumor lesions were diagnosed and carefully evaluated by biopsy. Biopsy revealed malignant tumors in 79 patients and benign tumors in 65 patients. When compared to histological findings, TEE predicted malignancy from the presence of tumors spreading both inside and outside of the heart and from infiltration and invasion in 49/79 patients (62.0%). TTE predicted malignancy in only 8/79 patients (10.1%, P < 0.005). TEE visualized tumor lesions in 130 patients (90.3%) while the TTE visualized tumor lesions in 110 patients (76.4%) and was less effective at detecting MT lesions (P < 0.001). TTE and TEE could detect anterior MTs and adequately verified MTs (P > 0.05); TEE detected medium MTs better than TTE (P < 0.001). TEE is effective and superior to TTE for predicting the localization and growth of MTs as well as for accessing evidence of tumor malignancy. TTE and TEE were able to detect anterior MTs; TEE was able to detect medium MT better than TTE.

  11. Diagnosis of Malignancy of Adult Mediastinal Tumors by Conventional and Transesophageal Echocardiography

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Wei-Wei; Wang, Hong-Wei; Liu, Nan-Nan; Li, Jing-Jing; Yuan, Wei; Zhao, Rui; Xiang, Liang-Bi; Qi, Miao

    2015-01-01

    Background: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a well-established method for detecting and diagnosing heart tumors. In contrast, its role in assessing the presence, growth and evidence of malignant tumors originating from mediastinal sites remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic impact of TEE and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for determining the localization, growth and malignancy of adult mediastinal tumors (MTs). Methods: In a prospective and investigator-blinded study, we evaluated 144 consecutive patients with MT lesions to assess the diagnostic impact of TEE and TTE for detecting the presence of tumors spreading both inside and outside of the heart and for determining infiltration and invasion using pathological examination results as a reference. Results: All tumor lesions were diagnosed and carefully evaluated by biopsy. Biopsy revealed malignant tumors in 79 patients and benign tumors in 65 patients. When compared to histological findings, TEE predicted malignancy from the presence of tumors spreading both inside and outside of the heart and from infiltration and invasion in 49/79 patients (62.0%). TTE predicted malignancy in only 8/79 patients (10.1%, P < 0.005). TEE visualized tumor lesions in 130 patients (90.3%) while the TTE visualized tumor lesions in 110 patients (76.4%) and was less effective at detecting MT lesions (P < 0.001). TTE and TEE could detect anterior MTs and adequately verified MTs (P > 0.05); TEE detected medium MTs better than TTE (P < 0.001). Conclusions: TEE is effective and superior to TTE for predicting the localization and growth of MTs as well as for accessing evidence of tumor malignancy. TTE and TEE were able to detect anterior MTs; TEE was able to detect medium MT better than TTE. PMID:25881598

  12. Cyclophilin A (CypA) is associated with the inflammatory infiltration and alveolar bone destruction in an experimental periodontitis

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

    Liu, Lihua; Li, Chengzhang, E-mail: l56cz@hotmail.com; Department of Periodontology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, 237 Luo Yu Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430079

    2010-01-01

    Background and objective: CypA is able to regulate inflammatory responses and MMPs production via interaction with its cell surface receptor, EMMPRIN. This study aimed to address the possible association of CypA with pathological inflammation and destruction of periodontal tissues, and whether CypA-EMMPRIN interaction exists in periodontitis. Materials and methods: Experimental periodontitis was induced by ligation according to our previous method. Histological and radiographic examinations were performed. Western blot was used to detect CypA and EMMPRIN expressions in gingival tissues. Immunohistochemistry was applied for CypA, EMMPRIN, MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, as well as cell markers of macrophage, lymphocyte and neutrophil. CypA expression,more » alveolar bone loss, and inflammatory infiltrations were quantified followed by correlation analyses. Results: Western blot revealed that CypA and EMMRPIN expressions were dramatically elevated in inflamed gingival tissues (ligature group) as compared to healthy gingival tissues (control group). The enhanced CypA and EMMPRIN expressions were highly consistent in cell localization on seriate sections. They were permanently co-localized in infiltrating macrophages and lymphocytes, as well as osteoclasts and osteoblasts in interradicular bone, but rarely expressed by infiltrating neutrophils. MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 expressions were also sharply increased in inflamed gingiva. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were mainly over-expressed by macrophages, while MMP-1 was over-produced by fibroblasts and infiltrating cells. The number of CypA-positive cells was strongly correlated with the ACJ-AC distance (r = 0.839, p = 0.000), the number of macrophages (r = 0.972, p = 0.000), and the number of lymphocytes (r = 0.951, p = 0.000). Conclusion: CypA is associated with the inflammatory infiltration and alveolar bone destruction of periodontitis. CypA-EMMPRIN interaction may exist in these pathological processes.« less

  13. Increased T-helper 17 cell differentiation mediated by exosome-mediated microRNA-451 redistribution in gastric cancer infiltrated T cells.

    PubMed

    Liu, Feng; Bu, Zhouyan; Zhao, Feng; Xiao, Daping

    2018-01-01

    MicroRNA (miR)-451 is a cell metabolism-related miRNA that can mediate cell energy-consuming models by several targets. As miR-451 can promote mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) activity, and increased mTOR activity is related to increased differentiation of T-helper 17 (Th17) cells, we sought to investigate whether miR-451 can redistribute from cancer cells to infiltrated T cells and enhance the distribution of Th17 cells through mTOR. Real-time PCR was used for detecting expression of miR-451 in gastric cancer, tumor infiltrated T cells and exosomes, and distribution of Th17 was evaluated by both flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Immunofluorescence staining was used in monitoring the exosome-enveloped miR-451 from cancer cells to T cells with different treatments, and signaling pathway change was analyzed by western blot. miR-451 decreased significantly in gastric cancer (GC) tissues but increased in infiltrated T cells and exosomes; tumor miR-451 was negatively related to infiltrated T cells and exosome miR-451. Exosome miR-451 can not only serve as an indicator for poor prognosis of post-operation GC patients but is also related to increased Th17 distribution in gastric cancer. miR-451 can redistribute from cancer cells to T cells with low glucose treatment. Decreased 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and increased mTOR activity was investigated in miR-451 redistributed T cells and the Th17 polarized differentiation of these T cells were also increased. Exosome miR-451 derived from tumor tissues can serve as an indicator for poor prognosis and redistribution of miR-451 from cancer cells to infiltrated T cells in low glucose treatment can enhance Th17 differentiation by enhancing mTOR activity. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer Science published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japanese Cancer Association.

  14. Contribution of flow cytometry to the diagnosis of gastric lymphomas in endoscopic biopsy specimens.

    PubMed

    Almasri, N M; Zaer, F S; Iturraspe, J A; Braylan, R C

    1997-07-01

    Gastric lymphomas seem to have unique clinical, pathologic, and immunophenotypic features that set them apart from nodal lymphomas. Microscopic examination of endoscopic biopsy specimens is the most frequent procedure used to diagnose gastric tumors, but it is very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to recognize lymphomas in endoscopic samples by histologic or even immunohistologic methods. Because most gastric lymphomas are of B-cell origin, we used flow cytometry to assess B-cell clonality in gastric biopsy specimens containing dense lymphocytic infiltrates thought to represent lymphoma. We prepared viable cell suspensions from unfixed specimens obtained from 29 consecutive patients who had a previous microscopic diagnosis of suspicious gastric lymphoid infiltrates. We performed immunophenotypic studies with multicolor flow cytometry, and we assessed clonality by examination of immunoglobulin (Ig) light-chain expression analyzed exclusively on B cells identified by anti-CD20 or CD19 antibodies. The mean number of cells recovered was 1.04 x 10(6), from an average of 5.5 gastric biopsy fragments per patient. In 26 of the 29 patients, the number of cells was adequate for analysis. We detected B-cell monoclonality in 16 cases, including 5 in which the percentage of clonal B cells was less than 5%. Of the 16 cases, only 8 could be diagnosed as lymphomas on morphologic grounds alone; the remaining 8 patients had either suspicious lymphoid infiltrates or chronic gastritis. The three cases with an insufficient number of cells were considered non-neoplastic either on histologic grounds alone or in conjunction with Southern analysis of Ig genes. We conclude that flow cytometric immunophenotypic analysis of freshly prepared cell suspensions obtained from endoscopic biopsy specimens can be used to evaluate gastric lymphocytic infiltrates. Specifically, the analysis of surface Ig light-chain expression on B cells distinguishes between monoclonal (lymphoma) and polyclonal (nonlymphoma) infiltrates. The rapidity, ease, quantitative properties, and sensitivity of this technique make it a supplement to the morphologic assessment of gastric lymphoid infiltrates.

  15. Aquifer recharge from infiltration basins in a highly urbanized area: the river Po Plain (Italy)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Masetti, M.; Nghiem, S. V.; Sorichetta, A.; Stevenazzi, S.; Santi, E. S.; Pettinato, S.; Bonfanti, M.; Pedretti, D.

    2015-12-01

    Due to the extensive urbanization in the Po Plain in northern Italy, rivers need to be managed to alleviate flooding problems while maintaining an appropriate aquifer recharge under an increasing percentage of impermeable surfaces. During the PO PLain Experiment field campaign in July 2015 (POPLEX 2015), both active and under-construction infiltration basins have been surveyed and analyzed to identify appropriate satellite observations that can be integrated to ground based monitoring techniques. A key strategy is to have continuous data time series on water presence and level within the basin, for which ground based monitoring can be costly and difficult to be obtained consistently.One of the major and old infiltration basin in the central Po Plain has been considered as pilot area. The basin is active from 2003 with ground based monitoring available since 2009 and supporting the development of a calibrated unsaturated-saturated two-dimensional numerical model simulating the infiltration dynamics through the basin.A procedure to use satellite data to detect surface water change is under development based on satellite radar backscatter data with an appropriate incidence angle and polarization combination. An advantage of satellite radar is that it can observe surface water regardless of cloud cover, which can be persistent during rainy seasons. Then, the surface water change is correlated to the reservoir water stage to determine water storage in the basin together with integrated ground data and to give quantitative estimates of variations in the local water cycle.We evaluated the evolution of the infiltration rate, to obtain useful insights about the general recharge behavior of basins that can be used for informed design and maintenance. Results clearly show when the basin becomes progressively clogged by biofilms that can reduce the infiltration capacity of the basin by as much as 50 times compared to when it properly works under clean conditions.

  16. Tranilast prevents renal interstitial fibrosis by blocking mast cell infiltration in a rat model of diabetic kidney disease.

    PubMed

    Yin, Dan-Dan; Luo, Jun-Hui; Zhao, Zhu-Ye; Liao, Ying-Jun; Li, Ying

    2018-05-01

    Renal interstitial fibrosis is a final pathway that is observed in various types of kidney diseases, including diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The present study investigated the effect of tranilast on renal interstitial fibrosis and the association between its role and mast cell infiltration in a rat model of DKD. A total of 30 healthy 6‑week‑old male Sprague‑Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following four groups: Normal control group; DKD model group; low‑dose tranilast group (200 mg/kg/day); and high‑dose tranilast group (400 mg/kg/day). The morphological alterations of tubulointerstitial fibrosis were evaluated by Masson's trichrome staining, while mast cell infiltration into the renal tubular interstitium was measured by toluidine blue staining and complement C3a receptor 1 (C3aR) immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The expression of fibronectin (FN), collagen I (Col‑I), stem cell factor (SCF) and proto‑oncogene c‑kit (c‑kit) was detected by IHC, western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative‑polymerase chain reaction. The results demonstrated that tubulointerstitial fibrosis and mast cell infiltration were observed in DKD model rats, and this was improved dose‑dependently in the tranilast treatment groups. The expression of FN, Col‑I, SCF and c‑kit mRNA and protein was upregulated in the tubulointerstitium of DKD model rats compared with the normal control rats, and tranilast inhibited the upregulated expression of these markers. Furthermore, the degree of SCF and c‑kit expression demonstrated a significant positive correlation with C3aR‑positive mast cells and the markers of renal interstitial fibrosis. The results of the present study indicate that mast cell infiltration may promote renal interstitial fibrosis via the SCF/c‑kit signaling pathway. Tranilast may prevent renal interstitial fibrosis through inhibition of mast cell infiltration mediated through the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway.

  17. Fatal presumed tiger snake (Notechis scutatus) envenomation in a cat with measurement of venom and antivenom concentration.

    PubMed

    Padula, Andrew M; Winkel, Kenneth D

    2016-04-01

    A fatal outcome of a presumed tiger snake (Notechis scutatus) envenomation in a cat is described. Detectable venom components and antivenom concentrations in serum from clotted and centrifuged whole blood and urine were measured using a sensitive and specific ELISA. The cat presented in a paralysed state with a markedly elevated serum CK but with normal clotting times. The cat was treated with intravenous fluids and received two vials of equine whole IgG bivalent (tiger and brown snake) antivenom. Despite treatment the cat's condition did not improve and it died 36 h post-presentation. Serum concentration of detectable tiger snake venom components at initial presentation was 311 ng/mL and urine 832 ng/mL, this declined to non-detectable levels in serum 15-min after intravenous antivenom. Urine concentration of detectable tiger snake venom components declined to 22 ng/mL at post-mortem. Measurement of equine anti-tiger snake venom specific antibody demonstrated a concentration of 7.2 Units/mL in serum at post-mortem which had declined from an initial high of 13 Units/mL at 15-min post-antivenom. The ELISA data demonstrated the complete clearance of detectable venom components from serum with no recurrence in the post-mortem samples. Antivenom concentrations in serum at initial presentation were at least 100-fold higher than theoretically required to neutralise the circulating concentrations of venom. Despite the fatal outcome in this case it was concluded that this was unlikely that is was due to insufficient antivenom. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. [Viral cause and management of necrotizing herpetic retinopathies].

    PubMed

    Tran, T H C; Bodaghi, B; Rozenberg, F; Cassoux, N; Fardeau, C; LeHoang, P

    2004-03-01

    To study the viral cause and present the management of necrotizing herpetic retinopathies. Charts of patients presenting with acute retinal necrosis (ARN) or progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) diagnosed between March 1997 and June 2001 were retrospectively reviewed. Intraocular specimens were obtained in 33 cases to determine the viral cause using polymerase chain reaction-based assays and/or detection of intraocular antibody production. The mean age was 43.4 Years. Herpesvirus genome was identified in 29 patients (80.5%). In the ARN group (32 patients, 38 eyes), herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA was found in 11 patients (34.4%), varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in nine patients (28.1%), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) in four patients (12.5%). One patient (3.1%) presented an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. ARN was bilateral at initial examination in six patients and secondary bilateralization was observed in four patients. In the PORN group (four patients, eight eyes), the retinitis was bilateral and VZV DNA was detected in all cases. Two patients were treated with intravenous acyclovir, six with foscarnet alone, ten with intravenous foscarnet + acyclovir, 18 with intravenous foscarnet and intravitreous ganciclovir injections. Complications of necrotizing herpetic retinitis were cataract (26%), optic nerve atrophy (23.9%), and retinal detachment (17.4%). Final visual acuity was less or equal to 20/200 in 47.8% of cases. It is important to determine the specific viral etiology since progression and prognosis may be different in herpetic necrotizing retinitis caused by HSV, VZV, or CMV. Visual prognosis is improved by intensive antiviral therapy, but remains poor if complications occur.

  19. Orotracheal administration of contrast agents: a new protocol for brain tumor targeting.

    PubMed

    Bianchi, Andrea; Moncelet, Damien; Lux, François; Plissonneau, Marie; Rizzitelli, Silvia; Ribot, Emeline Julie; Tassali, Nawal; Bouchaud, Véronique; Tillement, Olivier; Voisin, Pierre; Crémillieux, Yannick

    2015-06-01

    The development of new non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic approaches is of paramount importance in order to improve the outcome of patients with glioblastoma (GBM). In this work we investigated a completely non-invasive pre-clinical protocol to effectively target and detect brain tumors through the orotracheal route, using ultra-small nanoparticles (USRPs) and MRI. A mouse model of GBM was developed. In vivo MRI acquisitions were performed before and after intravenous or orotracheal administration of the nanoparticles to identify and segment the tumor. The accumulation of the nanoparticles in neoplastic lesions was assessed ex vivo through fluorescence microscopy. Before the administration of contrast agents, MR images allowed the identification of the presence of abnormal brain tissue in 73% of animals. After orotracheal or intravenous administration of USRPs, in all the mice an excellent co-localization of the position of the tumor with MRI and histology was observed. The elimination time of the USRPs from the tumor after the orotracheal administration was approximately 70% longer compared with intravenous injection. MRI and USRPs were shown to be powerful imaging tools able to detect, quantify and longitudinally monitor the development of GBMs. The absence of ionizing radiation and high resolution of MRI, along with the complete non-invasiveness and good reproducibility of the proposed protocol, make this technique potentially translatable to humans. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the advantages of a needle-free orotracheal administration route have been demonstrated for the investigation of the pathomorphological changes due to GBMs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Intraoperative indocyanine green videoangiography for identification of pituitary adenomas using a microscopic transsphenoidal approach.

    PubMed

    Sandow, N; Klene, W; Elbelt, U; Strasburger, C J; Vajkoczy, P

    2015-10-01

    Initial successful surgical treatment of pituitary adenomas is crucial to reach long-term remission. Indocyanine green (ICG) videoangiography (VA) is well established in vascular neurosurgery nowadays and several reports described ICG application in brain tumor surgery. We designed this study to evaluate the feasibility of intravenous application of ICG and visualisation of a pituitary lesion via the fluorescence mode of the operation microscope. 22 patients with pituitary adenomas were treated with transsphenoidal microsurgery and were included in this study. Intraoperatively 25 mg ICG was administered intravenously and visualized via the fluorescence mode of the operation microscope (Pentero/Zeiss). 22 patients qualified for transsphenoidal surgery presenting with different clinical symptoms (13 patients with acromegaly, 6 with M. Cushing and 3 with other symptoms like vision disorder or dizziness) and identification of a pituitary lesion (21 of 22 patients) in preoperative MR-imaging (mean diameter: 9 mm; SD 3.6; 6 macroadenomas, 15 microadenomas, 1 MR-negative). In all 22 patients ICG VA was performed during surgery. No technical failures or adverse events after drug administration occurred. Visualization was optimal approximately 2.4 min after intravenous application. In all patients the adenoma could be detected via two different types of visualization: direct visualization by fluorophore emission versus indirect detection of the adenoma by a lower ICG fluorescence compared to the surrounding tissue. Our data show that intraoperative ICG VA can be a useful and easily applicable additional diagnostic tool for visualization of pituitary lesions using the microscopic approach.

  1. Adverse reactions of α2-adrenoceptor agonists in cats reported in 2003-2013 in Finland.

    PubMed

    Raekallio, Marja R; Virtanen, Marika; Happonen, Irmeli; Vainio, Outi M

    2017-07-01

    To describe suspected adverse drug reactions in cats associated with use of α 2 -adrenoceptor agonists. Retrospective study. A total of 90 cats. Data were collected from reports on adverse reactions to veterinary medicines sent to the Finnish Medicines Agency during 2003-2013. All reports of suspected adverse reactions associated with use of α 2 -adrenoceptor agonists in cats were included. Probable pulmonary oedema was diagnosed based on post mortem or radiological examination, or presence of frothy or excess fluid from the nostrils or trachea. If only dyspnoea and crackles on auscultation were reported, possible pulmonary oedema was presumed. Pulmonary oedema was suspected in 61 cases. Of these cats, 37 were categorised as probable and 24 as possible pulmonary oedema. The first clinical signs had been noted between 1 minute and 2 days (median, 15 minutes) after α 2 -adrenoceptor agonist administration. Many cats probably had no intravenous overhydration when the first clinical signs were detected, as either they presumably had no intravenous cannula or the signs appeared before, during or immediately after cannulation. Of the 61 cats, 43 survived, 14 died and for four the outcome was not clearly stated. Pulmonary oedema is a perilous condition that may appear within minutes of an intramuscular administration of sedative or anaesthetic agent in cats. The symptoms were not caused by intravenous overhydration, at least in cats having no venous cannula when the first clinical signs were detected. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Intravenous volume tomographic pulmonary angiography imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ning, Ruola; Strang, John G.; Chen, Biao; Conover, David L.; Yu, Rongfeng

    1999-05-01

    This study presents a new intravenous (IV) tomographic angiography imaging technique, called intravenous volume tomographic digital angiography (VTDA) for cross sectional pulmonary angiography. While the advantages of IV-VTDA over spiral CT in terms of volume scanning time and resolution have been validated and reported in our previous papers for head and neck vascular imaging, the superiority of IV-VTDA over spiral CT for cross sectional pulmonary angiography has not been explored yet. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the advantage of isotropic resolution of IV-VTDA in the x, y and z directions through phantom and animal studies, and to explore its clinical application for detecting clots in pulmonary angiography. A prototype image intensifier-based VTDA imaging system has been designed and constructed by modifying a GE 8800 CT scanner. This system was used for a series of phantom and dog studies. A pulmonary vascular phantom was designed and constructed. The phantom was scanned using the prototype VTDA system for direct 3D reconstruction. Then the same phantom was scanned using a GE CT/i spiral CT scanner using the routine pulmonary CT angiography protocols. IV contrast injection and volume scanning protocols were developed during the dog studies. Both VTDA reconstructed images and spiral CT images of the specially designed phantom were analyzed and compared. The detectability of simulated vessels and clots was assessed as the function of iodine concentration levels, oriented angles, and diameters of the vessels and clots. A set of 3D VTDA reconstruction images of dog pulmonary arteries was obtained with different IV injection rates and isotropic resolution in the x, y and z directions. The results of clot detection studies in dog pulmonary arteries have also been shown. This study presents a new tomographic IV angiography imaging technique for cross sectional pulmonary angiography. The results of phantom and animal studies indicate that IV-VTDA is superior to spiral CT for cross sectional pulmonary angiography.

  3. Extensive plasma cell infiltration with crystal IgG inclusions and mutated IgV(H) gene in an osteoarthritis patient with lymphoplasmacellular synovitis. A case report.

    PubMed

    Magalhães, Raquel; Gehrke, Thorsten; Souto-Carneiro, Maria M; Kriegsmann, Jörg; Krenn, Veit

    2002-01-01

    The presence of immunoglobulin crystal inclusions in plasma cells from plasmacytomas and B-NHLs (linked to overstimulation and overproduction) has been frequently reported. Our case describes a lymphoplasmacellular synovitis in a patient with osteoarthritis (OA) showing an unusually high plasma cell infiltration and for the first time crystals in plasma cells. Using immunohistochemistry. these crystals were identified as being IgG with a balanced lambda/kappa ratio. IgV(H) gene analysis (n = 5 clones) showed that they were somatically mutated (R/S of CDR > 3): in one case, an insertion of 9 nucleotides on the CDR2 region was observed. High R/S values in the CDR indicated antigen selectivity and affinity (4/5). Since no germinal centers could be detected and the analyzed B cells showed antigen selectivity, it may be concluded that already antigenically activated B cells migrated into the synovium and locally differentiated into plasma cells, leading to the extensive infiltration observed. Rheumatoid fibroblasts were shown to support terminal B cell differentiation. Our data suggests that the ability of fibroblasts to activate B cells is not only restricted to RA, but also occurs in OA. The intense plasma cell infiltration contributed to further cartilage damage by altering the microenvironment of the nourishing synovial tissue or by the local production of pathogenic autoantibodies.

  4. [A study of the pathogenesis of tonsillar focal infection--transplantation of human tonsillar lymphocytes and human skin into SCID mice].

    PubMed

    Yamamoto, Y; Kuki, K; Hayashi, Y; Yamanaka, N

    2000-07-01

    Pustulosis palmaris et plantaris (PPP) has been considered as one of the typical tonsillar focal infections, based on the marked clinical improvement of the skin lesions after tonsillectomy. In early-stage of PPP, it has been reported that lymphocytes, predominantly CD4-positive cells, infiltrate the palmar and plantar skin. However, the origin and mechanism of infiltration by these lymphocytes is not clear and there are very few reports on whether tonsillar cells react directly with the skin, possibly due to the difficulty of establishing adequate animal models. In this study, we established an experimental animal model of mice with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and observed the reactions of the tonsillar lymphocytes (TL) or peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of patients with PPP to their own plantar skin by transplanting the lymphocytes and skin of the patient into the mice. The results revealed that TL infiltrated the skin to a significantly greater extent than PBL. Most of these lymphocytes were T lymphocytes, and no B lymphocytes were detected in the transplanted skin. Strong expression of LFA-1 and ICAM-1 was observed in the skin after the TL transplantation. These results suggest that TL have a strong affinity for the skin in PPP, and that the adhesion molecules may play an important role in the infiltration by lymphocytes of the skin.

  5. Transport behavior of surrogate biological warfare agents in a simulated landfill: effect of leachate recirculation and water infiltration.

    PubMed

    Saikaly, Pascal E; Hicks, Kristin; Barlaz, Morton A; de Los Reyes, Francis L

    2010-11-15

    An understanding of the transport behavior of biological warfare (BW) agents in landfills is required to evaluate the suitability of landfills for the disposal of building decontamination residue (BDR) following a bioterrorist attack on a building. Surrogate BW agents, Bacillus atrophaeus spores and Serratia marcescens, were spiked into simulated landfill reactors that were filled with synthetic building debris (SBD) and operated for 4 months with leachate recirculation or water infiltration. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) was used to monitor surrogate transport. In the leachate recirculation reactors, <10% of spiked surrogates were eluted in leachate over 4 months. In contrast, 45% and 31% of spiked S. marcescens and B. atrophaeus spores were eluted in leachate in the water infiltration reactors. At the termination of the experiment, the number of retained cells and spores in SBD was measured over the depth of the reactor. Less than 3% of the total spiked S. marcescens cells and no B. atrophaeus spores were detected in SBD. These results suggest that significant fractions of the spiked surrogates were strongly attached to SBD.

  6. Effects of stormwater infiltration on quality of groundwater beneath retention and detention basins

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Fischer, D.; Charles, E.G.; Baehr, A.L.

    2003-01-01

    Infiltration of storm water through detention and retention basins may increase the risk of groundwater contamination, especially in areas where the soil is sandy and the water table shallow, and contaminants may not have a chance to degrade or sorb onto soil particles before reaching the saturated zone. Groundwater from 16 monitoring wells installed in basins in southern New Jersey was compared to the quality of shallow groundwater from 30 wells in areas of new-urban land use. Basin groundwater contained much lower levels of dissolved oxygen, which affected concentrations of major ions. Patterns of volatile organic compound and pesticide occurrence in basin groundwater reflected the land use in the drainage areas served by the basins, and differed from patterns in background samples, exhibiting a greater occurrence of petroleum hydrocarbons and certain pesticides. Dilution effects and volatilization likely decrease the concentration and detection frequency of certain compounds commonly found in background groundwater. High recharge rates in storm water basins may cause loading factors to be substantial even when constituent concentrations in infiltrating storm water are relatively low.

  7. A Case Report of an Elderly Woman With Thrombocytopenia and Bilateral Lung Infiltrates

    PubMed Central

    Hashmi, Hafiz Rizwan Talib; Venkatram, Sindhaghatta; Diaz-Fuentes, Gilda

    2015-01-01

    Abstract Etiologies for diffuse alveolar hemorrhage are wide and range from infectious to vasculitis and malignant processes. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is an autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent thrombocytopenia, with a relatively indolent course in young patients, but a more complicated progression and high associated mortality in the older patients. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, complicating idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, is a very uncommon association, with only 2 reported cases in the literature. We present a 69-year-old healthy woman presenting with petechial rash, progressive dyspnea, and bilateral alveolar infiltrates. She was found to have idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura associated with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. The patient had an excellent response to high doses of pulse steroids and immunoglobulins. A high index of suspicion for noninfectious pulmonary diseases should be considered in patients with autoimmune diseases presenting with pulmonary infiltrates and hypoxia. Flexible bronchoscopy with sequential lavage is a relatively safe procedure in patients with coagulopathy and should be attempted to detect and confirm the diagnosis; absence of hemoptysis should not preclude the diagnosis. PMID:26683938

  8. Optical effects in artificial opals infiltrated with gold nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Comoretto, Davide; Morandi, Valentina; Marabelli, Franco; Amendola, Vincenzo; Meneghetti, Moreno

    2006-04-01

    Polystyrene artificial opals are directly grown with embedded gold nanoparticles (NpAu) in their interstices. Reflectance spectra of samples having different sphere diameters and nanoparticles load clearly show a red shift of the photonic band gap as well as a reduction of its width without showing direct evidence of NpAu absorption. The case of transmission spectra is instead more complicated: here, overlapped to a broad NpAu absorption, a structure having unusual lineshape is detected. The infiltration of opal with NpAu removes the polarization dependence of the photonic band structure observed in bare opals. The lineshape of the absorption spectra suggest a spatial localization of the electromagnetic field in the volume where NpAu are confined thus enhancing its local intensity. This effect seems to be effective to stimulate optical nonlinearities of NpAu. Nanosecond transient absorption measurements on NpAu infiltrated opals indicate that a variation of transmission of about 10% is observed. Since this effect takes place within the pump pulse and since NpAu photoluminescence has been subtracted to the signal, we attribute it to an optical switching process.

  9. Ca-P spots modified zirconia by liquid precursor infiltration and the effect on osteoblast-like cell responses.

    PubMed

    Li, Yongmei; Liu, Yan; Zhang, Zutai; Zhuge, Ruishen; Ding, Ning; Tian, Yueming

    2018-01-26

    Ca-P spots modified zirconia by liquid precursor infiltration and the cell responses were investigated. Pre-sintered zirconia specimens were immersed in Ca-P precursor solution. After dense sintering, scanning electron microscopy showed Ca-P spots were formed on the zirconia and anchored with zirconia substrates. The distribution density was increased with the extension of immersion time. Energy dispersive spectrometer confirmed the stoichiometric Ca/P ratio was about 1.67. After hydrothermal treatment, Ca-P spots turned into rod crystals where diffraction peaks of tricalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite were detected by X-ray diffraction, and Ca 2+ and PO 4 3- release decreased slightly (p>0.05). There was no significant decrease on three-point bending strength (p>0.05). Osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells attached and spread well and showed higher proliferation on Ca-P spots modified zirconia (p<0.05), though its initial alkaline phosphatase activity was not significant high (p>0.05). In conclusion, Ca-P liquid precursor infiltration is a potential method to modify the zirconia ceramics for improving bioactivity.

  10. Comparing the effectiveness of ropivacaine 0.5% versus ropivacaine 0.2% for transabdominis plane block in providing postoperative analgesia after appendectomy.

    PubMed

    Abdul Jalil, Reymi Marseela; Yahya, Nurlia; Sulaiman, Omar; Wan Mat, Wan Rahiza; Teo, Rufinah; Izaham, Azarinah; Rahman, Raha Abdul

    2014-06-01

    The basis for the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block involves infiltration of a local anesthetic into the neurofascial plane between the internal oblique and the transversus abdominis muscles, causing a regional block that spreads between the L1 and T10 dermatomes. Thus, the TAP block is said to be suitable for lower abdominal surgery. This study was designed to compare the analgesic efficacy of two different concentrations of ropivacaine for TAP block in patients undergoing appendectomy. Fifty-six patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II, aged 18 years and above, undergoing appendectomy were recruited in this prospective, randomized, double-blind study. They were divided into two groups: Group A patients who received 0.5 mL/kg of ropivacaine 0.5% and Group B patients who received 0.5 mL/kg of ropivacaine 0.2% via TAP block under ultrasound guidance. Postoperative pain was assessed using the visual analog scale upon arrival at the recovery room in the operating theatre, just prior to being discharged to the ward, and at 6 hours, 12 hours, 18 hours, and 24 hours postoperatively to compare the effectiveness of analgesia. Intraoperatively, patients in Group B required a significantly greater amount of additional intravenous fentanyl than those in Group A. There were no significant statistical differences in pain scores at rest and on movement at all assessment times as well as in the dose of 24-hour intravenous morphine consumption given via patient-controlled analgesia postoperatively between the two groups. The effectiveness of two different concentrations of ropivacaine (0.5% versus 0.2%) given via TAP block was comparable in providing postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing appendectomy. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  11. Tezosentan, a Novel Endothelin Receptor Antagonist, Markedly Reduces Rat Hepatic Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury in Three Different Models

    PubMed Central

    Farmer, Douglas G.; Kaldas, Fady; Anselmo, Dean; Katori, Masamichi; Shen, Xiu-Da; Lassman, Charles; Kaldas, Marian; Clozel, Martine; Busuttil, Ronald W.; Kupiec-Weglinski, Jerzy

    2010-01-01

    This study investigated the effects of dual endothelin (ET) receptor blockade in rat models of liver ischemia and reperfusion injury (IRI). Three models of IRI were used: (1) in vivo total hepatic warm ischemia with portal shunting for 60 minutes with control (saline) and treatment groups (15 mg/kg tezosentan intravenously prior to reperfusion), (2) ex vivo hepatic perfusion after 24 hours of cold storage in University of Wisconsin solution with control and treatment groups (10 mg/kg tezosentan in the perfusate), and (3) syngeneic liver transplantation (LT) after 24 hours of cold storage in University of Wisconsin solution with control and treatment groups (10 mg/kg tezosentan intravenously prior to reperfusion). Tezosentan treatment significantly improved serum transaminase and histology after IRI in all 3 models. This correlated with reduced vascular resistance, improved bile production, and an improved oxygen extraction ratio. Treatment led to a reduction in neutrophil infiltration and interleukin-1 beta and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 production. A reduction in endothelial cell injury as measured by purine nucleoside phosphorylase was seen. Survival after LT was significantly increased with tezosentan treatment (90% versus 50%). In conclusion, this is the first investigation to examine dual receptor ET blockade in 3 models of hepatic IRI and the first to use the parenterally administered agent tezosentan. The results demonstrate that in both warm and cold IRI tezosentan administration improves sinusoidal hemodynamics and is associated with improved tissue oxygenation and reduced endothelial cell damage. In addition, reduced tissue inflammation, injury, and leukocyte chemotactic signaling were seen. These results provide compelling data for the further investigation of the use of tezosentan in hepatic IRI. PMID:19025917

  12. Detection of recombinant EPO in blood and urine samples with EPO WGA MAIIA, IEF and SAR-PAGE after microdose injections.

    PubMed

    Dehnes, Yvette; Shalina, Alexandra; Myrvold, Linda

    2013-01-01

    The misuse of microdoses of performance enhancing drugs like erythropoietin (EPO) constitutes a major challenge in doping analysis. When injected intravenously, the half-life of recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) like epoetin alfa, beta, and zeta is only a few hours and hence, the window for direct detection of rhEPO in urine is small. In order to investigate the detection window for rhEPO directly in blood and urine with a combined affinity chromatography and lateral flow immunoassay (EPO WGA MAIIA), we recruited nine healthy people who each received six intravenously injected microdoses (7.5 IU/kg) of NeoRecormon (epoetin beta) over a period of three weeks. Blood and urine samples were collected in the days following the injections and analyzed with EPO WGA MAIIA as well as the current validated methods for rhEPO; isoelectric focusing (IEF) and sarcosyl polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SAR-PAGE). For samples collected 18 h after a microdose, the sensitivity of the EPO WGA MAIIA assay was 100% in plasma and 87.5% in urine samples at the respective 98% specificity threshold levels. In comparison, the sensitivity in plasma and urine was 75% and 100%, respectively, with IEF, and 87.5% in plasma and 100% in urine when analyzed with SAR-PAGE. We conclude that EPO WGA MAIIA is a sensitive assay for the detection of rhEPO, with the potential of being a fast, supplemental screening assay for use in doping analysis.

  13. [Interspecies differences of noopept pharmacokinetics].

    PubMed

    Boĭko, S S; Korotkov, S A; Zherdev, V P; Gudasheva, T A; Ostrovskaia, R U; Voronina, T A

    2004-01-01

    Significant interspecific differences in the pharmacokinetics of noopept are manifested by a decrease in the drug elimination rate on the passage from rats to rabbits and humans. Very intensive metabolism of noopept was observed upon intravenous administration in rats. In these animals, presystemic elimination mechanisms lead to the formation of a specific metabolite representing a product of drug biotransformation hydroxylated at the phenyl ring. In rabbits, unchanged noopept circulates in the blood for a longer time upon both intravenous and peroral introduction, biotransformation proceeds at a much slower rate, and no metabolites analogous to that found in rats are detected. The noopept pharmacokinetics in humans differs from that in animals by still slower elimination and considerable individual variability. No drug metabolites are found in the human blood plasma, probably because of a relatively small dose and low concentration.

  14. Tin-117m-labeled stannic (Sn/sup 4 +/) chelate of diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) for application in diagnosis and therapy

    DOEpatents

    Srivastava, S.C.; Meinken, G.E.; Richards, P.

    1983-08-25

    The radiopharmaceutical reagents of this invention and the class of Tin-117m radiopharmaceuticals are therapeutic and diagnostic agents that incorporate gamma-emitting nuclides that localize in bone after intravenous injection in mammals (mice, rats, dogs, and rabbits). Images reflecting bone structure or function can then be obtained by a scintillation camera that detects the distribution of ionizing radiation emitted by the radioactive agent. Tin-117m-labeled chelates of stannic tin localize almost exclusively in cortical bone. Upon intravenous injection of the reagent, the preferred chelates are phosphonate compounds, preferable, PYP, MDP, EHDP, and DTPA. This class of reagents is therapeutically and diagnostically useful in skeletal scintigraphy and for the radiotherapy of bone tumors and other disorders.

  15. Detection of Leishmania spp. and associated inflammation in ocular-associated smooth and striated muscles in dogs with patent leishmaniosis.

    PubMed

    Naranjo, Carolina; Fondevila, Dolors; Leiva, Marta; Roura, Xavier; Peña, Teresa

    2010-05-01

    Canine leishmaniosis is a disease characterized by the wide distribution of the parasite throughout the tissues of the host. The purpose of this study was to describe the presence of Leishmania spp. and associated inflammation in ocular-associated muscles of dogs with patent leishmaniosis. Smooth muscles (iris dilator muscle, iris sphincter muscle, ciliary muscle, Müller muscle, smooth muscle of the periorbita and smooth muscle of the nictitating membrane) and striated muscles (orbicularis oculi muscle, obliquus dorsalis muscle and dorsal rectus muscle) were evaluated. Routine staining with hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry to detect Leishmania spp. were performed on tissue sections. Granulomatous inflammation was seen surrounding muscular fibers and was composed mainly of macrophages with scattered lymphocytes and plasma cells. This infiltrate could be seen in 52/473 (10.99%) samples of smooth muscle and 36/142 (25.35%) samples of striated muscle. Parasites were detected in 43/473 (9.09%) samples of smooth muscle and in 28/142 (19.71%) samples of striated muscle. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report assessing the presence of Leishmania spp. and associated infiltrate in intraocular, extraocular and adnexal smooth and striated muscles. The inflammation present in those muscles could contribute to clinical signs already described, such as blepharitis, uveitis, and orbital cellulitis.

  16. Diffusion-Tensor Imaging of Thigh Muscles in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Correlation of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient and Fractional Anisotropy Values With Fatty Infiltration.

    PubMed

    Li, Gui Dian; Liang, Ying Yin; Xu, Ping; Ling, Jian; Chen, Ying Ming

    2016-04-01

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values with fatty infiltration in the thigh muscles of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) using diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI). Twenty-one boys with DMD were recruited. The grade of fatty infiltration and the ADC and FA values of four thigh muscles (rectus femoris, semitendinosus, sartorius, and gracilis) were measured, and the FA and ADC values were compared with the grade of fatty infiltration. Twenty age-matched healthy boys were enrolled as the control group. The differences in the ADC and FA values of the thigh muscles between patients with DMD and the control group were compared. The patients with DMD showed lower FA values and higher ADC values in all measured muscles when compared with the control group. The FA and ADC values were correlated with the grade of fatty infiltration. For the rectus femoris muscle, r = -0.753 and p = 0.007 for FA, and r = 0.685 and p = 0.001 for ADC. For the semitendinosus muscle, r = -0.621 and p = 0.041 for FA, and r = 0.705 and p = 0.021 for ADC. For the sartorius muscle, r = -0.662 and p = 0.027 for FA, and r = 0.701 and p = 0.017 for ADC. For the gracilis muscle, r = -0.618 and p = 0.043 for FA, and r = 0.695 and p = 0.022 for ADC. Damage to the thigh muscles in patients with DMD can be detected by ADC and FA values using DTI. DTI can be used to assess the severity of the disease.

  17. Specific destruction of islet transplants in NOD<-->C57BL/6 and NOD<-->C3H/Tif embryo aggregation chimeras irrespective of allelic differences in beta-cell antigens.

    PubMed

    Leijon, K; Hillörn, V; Bergqvist, I; Holmberg, D

    1995-06-01

    We have tested the hypothesis that allelic differences in the antigens expressed by the beta-cells of the islets of Langerhans influence the development of insulitis in the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse. Islets of Langerhans from NOD, C57BL/6 and C3H/Tif mice were transplanted under the kidney capsule of NOD<-->C57BL/6 and NOD<-->C3H/Tif embryo aggregation (EA) chimeras and the infiltration was scored 5-7 weeks later. Mononuclear cell infiltration of pancreatic islets was observed in 60% of the NOD<-->C57BL/6 and in 55% of the NOD<-->C3H/Tif EA chimeras. All transplanted EA chimeras that developed insulitis also displayed mononuclear cell infiltrates in the transplants, irrespective of the origin of the transplanted islets. In contrast, no infiltration of transplants was detected in EA chimeras scoring negative for insulitis. These results demonstrate that the specific destruction of islet transplants does not require the expression of NOD specific antigens by the islets. Moreover, the beta-cell destruction appears not to be restricted to NOD-MHC. The correlation between insulitis and transplant beta-cell destruction suggests the possibility that the development of insulitis is a prerequisite for transplant specific destruction. MHC restricted destruction may, therefore, precede the beta-cell destruction of transplanted islets. The chimerism among the mononuclear cells infiltrating the islet transplants was found to correlate with the overall haematopoetic chimerism in each of the individual EA chimeras. This observation suggests that NOD bone marrow, as well as non-NOD bone marrow, generates cells contributing to the beta-cell destruction process.

  18. Ribonucleic acid interference knockdown of interleukin 6 attenuates cold-induced hypertension.

    PubMed

    Crosswhite, Patrick; Sun, Zhongjie

    2010-06-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL) 6 in cold-induced hypertension. Four groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were used (6 rats per group). After blood pressure was stabilized, 3 groups received intravenous delivery of adenoassociated virus carrying IL-6 small hairpin RNA (shRNA), adenoassociated virus carrying scrambled shRNA, and PBS, respectively, before exposure to a cold environment (5 degrees C). The last group received PBS and was kept at room temperature (25 degrees C, warm) as a control. Adenoassociated virus delivery of IL-6 shRNA significantly attenuated cold-induced elevation of systolic blood pressure and kept it at the control level for < or =7 weeks (length of the study). Chronic exposure to cold upregulated IL-6 expression in aorta, heart, and kidneys and increased macrophage and T-cell infiltration in kidneys, suggesting that cold exposure increases inflammation. IL-6 shRNA delivery abolished the cold-induced upregulation of IL-6, indicating effective silence of IL-6. Interestingly, RNA interference knockdown of IL-6 prevented cold-induced inflammation, as evidenced by a complete inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha expression and leukocyte infiltration by IL-6 shRNA. RNA interference knockdown of IL-6 significantly decreased the cold-induced increase in vascular superoxide production. It is noted that IL-6 shRNA abolished the cold-induced increase in collagen deposition in the heart, suggesting that inflammation is involved in cold-induced cardiac remodeling. Cold exposure caused glomerular collapses, which could be prevented by knockdown of IL-6, suggesting an important role of inflammation in cold-induced renal damage. In conclusion, cold exposure increased IL-6 expression and inflammation, which play critical roles in the pathogenesis of cold-induced hypertension and cardiac and renal damage.

  19. Water-soluble phenol TS-13 combats acute but not chronic inflammation.

    PubMed

    Menshchikova, Elena; Tkachev, Victor; Lemza, Anna; Sharkova, Tatyana; Kandalintseva, Natalya; Vavilin, Valentin; Safronova, Olga; Zenkov, Nikolay

    2014-09-01

    This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the synthetic water-soluble phenolic antioxidant TS-13 (sodium 3-(4'-methoxyphenyl)propyl thiosulfonate), an inducer of the redox-dependent Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling system, in experimental models of acute and chronic inflammation. Acute local inflammation was induced by intraplantar carrageenan injection into rat hind paws, and acute systemic inflammation was modeled by intravenous zymosan injection (in rats) or LPS-induced endotoxic shock (in mice). Chronic inflammation was investigated in rat models of air pouch and collagen-induced arthritis. The effects of TS-13 treatment were estimated by changes in the intensity of inflammation (paw edema, liver infiltration, animal survival, exudation, and clinical score of arthritis) and by the effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by leukocytes from peripheral blood and inflammatory exudates. We found the significant increase in expression of mRNA, content of protein and activity of a well-characterized Nrf2 target enzyme glutathione S-transferase P1, as well as nuclear extract protein binding to the ARE consensus sequence in liver of mice fed with diet containing TS-13. TS-13 markedly attenuated carrageenan-induced paw edema, reduced blood granulocyte number and volume density of liver infiltrates in the systemic zymosan-induced inflammation model, and increased mice survival after lipopolysaccharide-induced septic shock. However, TS-13 administration did not influence cell and protein exudation into air pouches and suppressed clinical manifestation of collagen-induced polyarthritis only at early stages. Nevertheless, TS-13 inhibited the generation of ROS by leukocytes in all inflammation models. The data suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of Keap1/Nrf2/ARE system are more prominent against acute innate-mediated inflammation than chronic immune inflammation. This narrows the potential therapeutic efficacy of ARE inducers in inflammation treatment.

  20. Primary Prevention of Asthma: Age and Sex Influence Sensitivity to Allergen-Induced Airway Inflammation and Contribute to Asthma Heterogeneity in Guinea Pigs

    PubMed Central

    Regal, Jean F.; Regal, Ronald R.; Meehan, Jessica L.; Mohrman, Margaret E.

    2010-01-01

    Background Limiting allergen exposure in the sensitization phase has been proposed as a means of primary prevention of asthma, but its effectiveness is debated. Hypothesis Primary prevention of asthma is more effective in limiting asthma symptoms in young guinea pigs compared with adults, whether males or females. Methods The following experimental groups were used: young/young, sensitized and challenged before sexual maturity; young/adult, sensitized young and challenged after sexual maturity; adult/adult, sensitized and challenged after sexual maturity. Males and females were sensitized intraperitoneally with varying doses of ovalbumin (OVA) and challenged intratracheally with a constant OVA dose. Cellular infiltration into lung and lavage fluid as well as airway hyperresponsiveness to intravenous methacholine was determined 24 h later. Results In unsensitized animals, density of resident inflammatory cells as well as baseline pulmonary function differed with age and sex. Maximum OVA-induced eosinophilia in females occurred at a lower sensitizing dose of OVA than in males, and the slopes of the dose-response relationship differed significantly between sexes. Young females had more pronounced increases in eosinophils compared with some adult treatment groups. The concentrations of OVA-specific antibodies were not directly related to differences in cellular infiltration. Airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine challenge was observed in all treatment groups. Conclusion Young animals require major reductions in allergen exposure compared with adults to effectively limit airway inflammation in primary prevention. Heterogeneity of asthma symptoms seen with age and sex suggests that primary prevention by limiting allergen exposure or treatment with anti-inflammatory or bronchodilator drugs may be more effective strategies for specific age and gender populations. PMID:16931886

  1. Long-Lasting Complete Responses in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma after Adoptive Cell Therapy with Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and an Attenuated IL2 Regimen.

    PubMed

    Andersen, Rikke; Donia, Marco; Ellebaek, Eva; Borch, Troels Holz; Kongsted, Per; Iversen, Trine Zeeberg; Hölmich, Lisbet Rosenkrantz; Hendel, Helle Westergren; Met, Özcan; Andersen, Mads Hald; Thor Straten, Per; Svane, Inge Marie

    2016-08-01

    Adoptive cell transfer therapy (ACT) based on autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) has achieved impressive clinical results in several phase I and II trials performed outside of Europe. Although transient, the toxicities associated with high-dose (HD) bolus IL2 classically administered together with TILs are severe. To further scrutinize whether similar results can be achieved with lower doses of IL2, we have carried out a phase I/II trial of TIL transfer after classical lymphodepleting chemotherapy followed by an attenuated IL2 regimen. Twenty-five patients with progressive treatment-refractory metastatic melanoma, good clinical performance, age < 70 years, and at least one resectable metastasis were eligible. TIL infusion was preceded by standard lymphodepleting chemotherapy and followed by attenuated doses of IL2 administered in an intravenous, continuous decrescendo regimen (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00937625). Classical IL2-related toxicities were observed but patients were manageable in a general oncology ward without the need for intervention from the intensive care unit. RECIST 1.0 evaluation displayed three complete responses and seven partial responses (ORR 42%). Median overall survival was 21.8 months. Tumor regression was associated with a higher absolute number of infused tumor-reactive T cells. Moreover, induction and persistence of antimelanoma T-cell responses in the peripheral blood was strongly correlated to clinical response to treatment. TIL-ACT with a reduced IL2 decrescendo regimen results in long-lasting complete responses in patients with treatment-refractory melanoma. Larger randomized trials are needed to elucidate whether clinical efficacy is comparable with TIL-ACT followed by HD bolus IL2. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3734-45. ©2016 AACR. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

  2. Mitigating effects of captopril and losartan on lung histopathology in a rat model of fat embolism.

    PubMed

    McIff, Terence E; Poisner, Alan M; Herndon, Betty; Lankachandra, Kamani; Molteni, Agostino; Adler, Federico

    2011-05-01

    Fat embolization (FE) is an often overlooked and poorly understood complication of skeletal trauma and some orthopedic procedures. Fat embolism can lead to major pulmonary damage associated with fat embolism syndrome (FES). A model of FE in unanesthetized rats, using intravenous injection of the neutral fat triolein, was used to study the potential therapeutic effect on lung histopathology of altering the production of, or response to, endogenous angiotensin (Ang) II. Either captopril, an Ang I converting enzyme inhibitor, or losartan, an Ang II type 1 receptor blocker, was injected 1 hour after FE by triolein injection. After euthanasia at 48 hours, histopathologic evaluation was used to compare the drug-treated animals with control animals that received only triolein. Histology of the lungs of rats treated only with triolein revealed severe, diffuse pathology. Alveolar septa showed severe, diffuse inflammation. Bronchial lumina showed severe mucosal epithelial loss. The media of the pulmonary small arteries and arterioles was thicker, and the lumen patency was reduced 60% to 70%. Trichrome staining confirmed the abundant presence of collagen in the media and adventitia, as well as collagen infiltrating the bronchial musculature. Both captopril and losartan treatments reduced the inflammatory, vasoconstrictor, and profibrotic effects present at 48 hours (p<0.001). With treatment, the vascular lumen remained patent, and the fat droplets were reduced in size and number. There was a reduction in the number of infiltrating leukocytes, macrophages, myofibroblasts, and eosinophils, along with a significant decrease in hemorrhage and collagen deposition (p<0.001). Pathologic changes in bronchial epithelium were also diminished. The results suggest that the use of drugs that act on the renin-Ang system might provide an effective and targeted therapy for fat embolism syndrome.

  3. Pam2 lipopeptides systemically increase myeloid-derived suppressor cells through TLR2 signaling

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

    Maruyama, Akira; Shime, Hiroaki, E-mail: shime@med.hokudai.ac.jp; Takeda, Yohei

    2015-02-13

    Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature myeloid cells that exhibit potent immunosuppressive activity. They are increased in tumor-bearing hosts and contribute to tumor development. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on MDSCs may modulate the tumor-supporting properties of MDSCs through pattern-recognition. Pam2 lipopeptides represented by Pam2CSK4 serve as a TLR2 agonist to exert anti-tumor function by dendritic cell (DC)-priming that leads to NK cell activation and cytotoxic T cell proliferation. On the other hand, TLR2 enhances tumor cell progression/invasion by activating tumor-infiltrating macrophages. How MDSCs respond to TLR2 agonists has not yet been determined. In this study, we found intravenous administration of Pam2CSK4more » systemically up-regulated the frequency of MDSCs in EG7 tumor-bearing mice. The frequency of tumor-infiltrating MDSCs was accordingly increased in response to Pam2CSK4. MDSCs were not increased by Pam2CSK4 stimuli in TLR2 knockout (KO) mice. Adoptive transfer experiments using CFSE-labeled MDSCs revealed that the TLR2-positive MDSCs survived long in tumor-bearing mice in response to Pam2CSK4 treatment. Since the increased MDSC population sustained immune-suppressive properties, our study suggests that Pam2CSK4-triggered TLR2 activation enhances the MDSC potential and suppress antitumor immune response in tumor microenvironment. - Highlights: • Pam2CSK4 administration induces systemic accumulation of CD11b{sup +}Gr1{sup +} MDSCs. • TLR2 is essential for Pam2CSK4-induced accumulation of CD11b{sup +}Gr1{sup +} MDSCs. • Pam2CSK4 supports survival of CD11b{sup +}Gr1{sup +} MDSCs in vivo.« less

  4. Comparison of Parecoxib and Proparacetamol in Endoscopic Nasal Surgery Patients

    PubMed Central

    Casati, Andrea; Rapotec, Alessandro; Dalsasso, Massimiliano; Barzan, Luigi; Fanelli, Guido; Pellis, Tommaso

    2008-01-01

    Purpose The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of parecoxib for postoperative analgesia after endoscopic turbinate and sinus surgery with the prodrug of acetaminophen, proparacetamol. Materials and Methods Fifty American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I-II patients, receiving functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and endoscopic turbinectomy, were investigated in a prospective, randomized, double-blind manner. After local infiltration with 1% mepivacaine, patients were randomly allocated to receive intravenous (IV) administration of either 40 mg of parecoxib (n = 25) or 2 g of proparacetamol (n = 25) 15 min before discontinuation of total IV anaesthesia with propofol and remifentanil. A blinded observer recorded the incidence and severity of pain at admission to the post anaesthesia care unit (PACU) at 10, 20, and 30 min after PACU admission, and every 1 h thereafter for the first 6 postoperative h. Results The area under the curve of VAS (AUCVAS) calculated during the study period was 669 (28 - 1901) cm·min in the proparacetamol group and 635 (26 - 1413) cm·min in the parecoxib group (p = 0.34). Rescue morphine analgesia was required by 14 patients (56%) in the proparacetamol group and 12 patients (48%) in the parecoxib (p ≥ 0.05), while mean morphine consumption was 5 - 3.5 mg and 5 - 2.0 mg in the proparacetamol groups and parecoxib, respectively (p ≥ 0.05). No differences in the incidence of side effects were recorded between the 2 groups. Patient satisfaction was similarly high in both groups, and all patients were uneventfully discharged 24 h after surgery. Conclusion In patients undergoing endoscopic nasal surgery, prior infiltration with local anaesthetics, parecoxib administered before discontinuing general anaesthetic, is not superior to proparacetamol in treating early postoperative pain. PMID:18581586

  5. Effect of intravenous parecoxib on post-craniotomy pain.

    PubMed

    Williams, D L; Pemberton, E; Leslie, K

    2011-09-01

    Pain management in craniotomy patients is challenging, with mild-to-moderate pain intensity, moderate-to-high risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and potentially catastrophic consequences of analgesic-related side-effects. The aim of this study was to determine whether i.v. parecoxib administered at dural closure during craniotomy decreased total morphine consumption and morphine-related side-effects compared with placebo. One hundred adult patients presenting for supratentorial craniotomy under propofol/remifentanil anaesthesia were randomized to receive parecoxib, 40 mg i.v., or placebo in a double-blind manner. All patients received local anaesthetic scalp infiltration, regular i.v. paracetamol, nurse-administered morphine in the post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) until verbal analogue pain scores were ≤4/10 and patient-controlled morphine thereafter. Morphine consumption, pain intensity, and analgesia-related side-effects were recorded during the first 24 h after operation. Ninety-six patients (49 control and 47 parecoxib) were included in the analyses. Fifty-nine (61%) patients received morphine in the PACU and only one patient (control) did not receive any morphine in the postoperative period. There were no significant differences between the two groups in morphine consumption [20 (range: 0-102) vs 16 (range: 1-92) mg; P=0.38], pain intensity [excellent/very good pain relief in 78% of parecoxib patients; 74% of control patients (P=0.72)] or analgesia-related side-effects (PONV in 51% of parecoxib patients; 56% of control patients; P=0.55) in the first 24 h after operation. No major morbidity was recorded. Our study demonstrated no clinical benefit to adding i.v. parecoxib to local anaesthetic scalp infiltration, i.v. paracetamol, and patient-controlled i.v. morphine after supratentorial craniotomy.

  6. Proresolving actions of a new resolvin D1 analog mimetic qualifies as an immunoresolvent.

    PubMed

    Orr, Sarah K; Colas, Romain A; Dalli, Jesmond; Chiang, Nan; Serhan, Charles N

    2015-05-01

    Resolution of inflammation is an active process driven by several new families of endogenous lipid mediators collectively coined specialized proresolving mediators (SPM). Here, we report a synthetic analog of resolvin D1 (RvD1) and aspirin-triggered RvD1, benzo-diacetylenic-17R-RvD1-methyl ester (BDA-RvD1), which was prepared using fewer steps than required for total organic synthesis of natural SPM. BDA-RvD1 was resistant to further metabolism by human recombinant 15-prostaglandin dehydrogenase, a major inactivation pathway for RvD1. In ischemia-reperfusion-initiated second organ injury, BDA-RvD1 intravenously (1 μg) reduced neutrophil infiltration into the lungs by 58 ± 9% and was significantly more potent than native RvD1. BDA-RvD1 at 100 ng/mouse also shortened the resolution interval, Ri, of Escherichia coli peritonitis with a similar potency as RvD1, by ~57%, from Ri 10.5 h to 4.5 h. With isolated human phagocytes, BDA-RvD1 at picomolar concentrations (10(-12) M) stimulated phagocytosis of zymosan A particles. BDA-RvD1 activated human recombinant G protein-coupled receptor 32/DRV1, an RvD1 receptor, in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicate that, both in vivo in mice and with isolated human cells, BDA-RvD1 shares defining proresolving actions of RvD1, including inhibiting leukocyte infiltration and stimulating phagocytosis. Moreover, they provide evidence for a new analog mimetic and example of an immunoresolvent, namely an agent that stimulates active resolution of inflammation, for a potential new therapeutic class. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

  7. Proresolving actions of a new resolvin D1 analog mimetic qualifies as an immunoresolvent

    PubMed Central

    Orr, Sarah K.; Colas, Romain A.; Dalli, Jesmond; Chiang, Nan

    2015-01-01

    Resolution of inflammation is an active process driven by several new families of endogenous lipid mediators collectively coined specialized proresolving mediators (SPM). Here, we report a synthetic analog of resolvin D1 (RvD1) and aspirin-triggered RvD1, benzo-diacetylenic-17R-RvD1-methyl ester (BDA-RvD1), which was prepared using fewer steps than required for total organic synthesis of natural SPM. BDA-RvD1 was resistant to further metabolism by human recombinant 15-prostaglandin dehydrogenase, a major inactivation pathway for RvD1. In ischemia-reperfusion-initiated second organ injury, BDA-RvD1 intravenously (1 μg) reduced neutrophil infiltration into the lungs by 58 ± 9% and was significantly more potent than native RvD1. BDA-RvD1 at 100 ng/mouse also shortened the resolution interval, Ri, of Escherichia coli peritonitis with a similar potency as RvD1, by ∼57%, from Ri 10.5 h to 4.5 h. With isolated human phagocytes, BDA-RvD1 at picomolar concentrations (10−12 M) stimulated phagocytosis of zymosan A particles. BDA-RvD1 activated human recombinant G protein-coupled receptor 32/DRV1, an RvD1 receptor, in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicate that, both in vivo in mice and with isolated human cells, BDA-RvD1 shares defining proresolving actions of RvD1, including inhibiting leukocyte infiltration and stimulating phagocytosis. Moreover, they provide evidence for a new analog mimetic and example of an immunoresolvent, namely an agent that stimulates active resolution of inflammation, for a potential new therapeutic class. PMID:25770181

  8. Development of Y-shaped peptide for constructing nanoparticle systems targeting tumor-associated macrophages in vitro and in vivo

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Lu; Gao, Yunxiang; Pierce, Ryan; Dai, Liming; Kim, Julian; Zhang, Mei

    2014-04-01

    Tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) is increasingly being viewed as a target of great interest in tumor microenvironment due to its important role in the progression and metastasis of cancers. It has been shown that TAM indeed overexpresses unique surface marker legumain. In this study, we designed and synthesized a Y-shaped legumain-targeting peptide (Y-Leg) with functional groups allowing for further conjugation with imaging and therapeutic moieties (vide infra). The in vitro cell experiments using FITC-conjugated Y-Leg revealed its specific and selective interaction with M2-polarized macrophages (i.e., TAMs) with preference to M1 macrophages, and that the interaction was not interfered with by conjugating FITC to its functional group. Further, we constructed a nanotube system by grafting Y-Leg onto oxidized carbon nanotubes (OCNTs) loaded with paramagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The intravenous injection of the resultant Y-Leg-OCNT/Fe3O4 nanotubes to 4T1 mammary tumor-bearing mouse led to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of TAM-infiltrated tumor microenvironment, revealing the targeting specificity of Y-Leg-conjugated nanotubes in vivo. The Y shape of peptide and its functional groups containing amines and imidazole can protonate at different pHs, contributing to the in vitro and in vivo targeting specificity. This study represents the first development of novel peptide and peptide-grafted nanotube system targeting M2-polarized TAMs in vivo. The methodology developed in this study is applicable to the construction of various multifunctional nanoparticle systems for selectively targeting, imaging and manipulating of TAMs for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers and inflammatory diseases identified with macrophage-infiltrated disease tissue.

  9. Cost-effectiveness analysis comparing epidural, patient-controlled intravenous morphine, and continuous wound infiltration for postoperative pain management after open abdominal surgery.

    PubMed

    Tilleul, P; Aissou, M; Bocquet, F; Thiriat, N; le Grelle, O; Burke, M J; Hutton, J; Beaussier, M

    2012-06-01

    Continuous wound infiltration (CWI), i.v. patient-controlled analgesia (i.v.-PCA), and epidural analgesia (EDA) are analgesic techniques commonly used for pain relief after open abdominal surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of these techniques. A decision analytic model was developed, including values retrieved from clinical trials and from an observational prospective cohort of 85 patients. Efficacy criteria were based on pain at rest (VAS ≤ 30/100 mm at 24 h). Resource use and costs were evaluated from medical record measurements and published data. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) was performed. When taking into account all resources consumed, the CWI arm (€ 6460) is economically dominant when compared with i.v.-PCA (€ 7273) and EDA (€ 7500). The proportion of patients successfully controlled for their postoperative pain management are 77.4%, 53.9%, and 72.9% for CWI, i.v.-PCA, and EDA, respectively, demonstrating the CWI procedure to be both economically and clinically dominant. PSA reported that CWI remains cost saving in 70.4% of cases in comparison with EDA and in 59.2% of cases when compared with PCA. Device-related costs of using CWI for pain management after abdominal laparotomy are partly counterbalanced by a reduction in resource consumption. The cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that CWI is the dominant treatment strategy for managing postoperative pain (i.e. more effective and less costly) in comparison with i.v.-PCA. When compared with EDA, CWI is less costly with almost equivalent efficacy. This economic evaluation may be useful for clinicians to design algorithms for pain management after major abdominal surgery.

  10. Low-level laser therapy improves crescentic glomerulonephritis in rats.

    PubMed

    Yamato, Masanori; Kaneda, Akira; Kataoka, Yosky

    2013-07-01

    Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can reduce inflammation in a variety of clinical conditions, including trauma, postherpetic neuralgia, and rheumatoid arthritis. However, the effect of LLLT on internal organs has not been elucidated. The goal of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of daily external LLLT in an animal model of crescentic glomerulonephritis. Crescentic glomerulonephritis was induced in male Wister Kyoto rats by intravenous injection of antibody for glomerular basement membrane (GBM). The rats were irradiated with a low-reactive level diode laser with an infrared wavelength of 830 nm from the shaved skin surface once a day for 14 days (irradiation spot size on the skin surface, 2.27 cm(2); power intensity, 880 mW/cm(2); irradiation mode, continuous mode; irradiation time, 250 s; energy, 500 J; energy density, 220 J/cm(2)). After laser irradiation for 14 days, animals were killed, and the extent of inflammation was evaluated. Expression of gene for inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was assessed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Crescent formation in glomeruli and infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes were assessed by histochemical observation. Injection of anti-GBM antibody induced severe glomerulonephritis with crescent formation. Histological observations indicated that LLLT suppressed crescent formation and infiltration of ED1+ macrophages and CD8+ lymphocytes into the glomeruli. LLLT attenuated the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α messenger RNA in the renal cortex. Externally directed LLLT suppresses the activity of rat anti-GBM crescentic glomerulonephritis in rats. LLLT has the potential to be used for direct treatment of glomerulonephritis.

  11. Adult Lung Spheroid Cells Contain Progenitor Cells and Mediate Regeneration in Rodents With Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Henry, Eric; Cores, Jhon; Hensley, M Taylor; Anthony, Shirena; Vandergriff, Adam; de Andrade, James B M; Allen, Tyler; Caranasos, Thomas G; Lobo, Leonard J; Cheng, Ke

    2015-11-01

    Lung diseases are devastating conditions and ranked as one of the top five causes of mortality worldwide according to the World Health Organization. Stem cell therapy is a promising strategy for lung regeneration. Previous animal and clinical studies have focused on the use of mesenchymal stem cells (from other parts of the body) for lung regenerative therapies. We report a rapid and robust method to generate therapeutic resident lung progenitors from adult lung tissues. Outgrowth cells from healthy lung tissue explants are self-aggregated into three-dimensional lung spheroids in a suspension culture. Without antigenic sorting, the lung spheroids recapitulate the stem cell niche and contain a natural mixture of lung stem cells and supporting cells. In vitro, lung spheroid cells can be expanded to a large quantity and can form alveoli-like structures and acquire mature lung epithelial phenotypes. In severe combined immunodeficiency mice with bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, intravenous injection of human lung spheroid cells inhibited apoptosis, fibrosis, and infiltration but promoted angiogenesis. In a syngeneic rat model of pulmonary fibrosis, lung spheroid cells outperformed adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in reducing fibrotic thickening and infiltration. Previously, lung spheroid cells (the spheroid model) had only been used to study lung cancer cells. Our data suggest that lung spheroids and lung spheroid cells from healthy lung tissues are excellent sources of regenerative lung cells for therapeutic lung regeneration. The results from the present study will lead to future human clinical trials using lung stem cell therapies to treat various incurable lung diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. The data presented here also provide fundamental knowledge regarding how injected stem cells mediate lung repair in pulmonary fibrosis. ©AlphaMed Press.

  12. A SEMI-AUTOMATED APPROACH FOR DETECTING AND LOCATING SWINE ANIMAL FEEDING OPERATIONS OVER REGIONAL AREAS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Surface runoff from animal feeding operations (AFO's) and its infiltration into ground water can
    pose a number of risks to water quality mainly because of the amount of animal manure and wastewater they produce. Excess nutrients generated by livestock facilities can lead to a...

  13. [A case of cutaneous protothecosis].

    PubMed

    Kazantseva, I A; Molochkov, A V; Sukhov, A V; Bondarenko, E V

    The paper describes a case of a rare opportunistic infection, such as skin lesion caused by achlorophyllic unicellular algae of the genus Prototheca. It provides a detailed pathologic description of the foci of cutaneous protothecosis, such as pandermal inflammatory infiltrate, granulomas, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, and intraepidermal abscesses. Criteria for pathogen detection in histological sections are given.

  14. Hyperspectral remote sensing of postfire soil properties

    Treesearch

    Sarah A. Lewis; Peter R. Robichaud; William J. Elliot; Bruce E. Frazier; Joan Q. Wu

    2004-01-01

    Forest fires may induce changes in soil organic properties that often lead to water repellent conditions within the soil profile that decrease soil infiltration capacity. The remote detection of water repellent soils after forest fires would lead to quicker and more accurate assessment of erosion potential. An airborne hyperspectral image was acquired over the Hayman...

  15. [Gene expression of H-FABP and FAS and its clinicopathological significance in breast infiltrating ductal carcinoma].

    PubMed

    Li, Hua; Lü, Qing; Xue, Hui; Dong, Li-hua; Yang, Hui-jun

    2008-07-01

    To detect the expression of Heart or Muscle Fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) in human breast cancer cells. The expression levels of FAS and H-FABP in 81 ductal infiltrating carcinoma (DIC) were detected by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. The possible associations of the expression of the two proteins with major clinicopathological factors were analyzed. The expression of both H-FABP and FAS increased in DIC cells than in adjacent normal cells. But less H-FABP and FAS were found in grade III DIC than in grade I and grade II DIC (P < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between the expression of H-FABP and FAS. No correlations between the expressions of two genes with other clinicopathological factors were found. The higher expression of H-FABP in grade I and II DIC suggests an early increased response to the over-expression of FAS. The parallel increase of H-FABP and FAS expressions marks increased breast cancer risk.

  16. Counterfeit Electronics Detection Using Image Processing and Machine Learning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asadizanjani, Navid; Tehranipoor, Mark; Forte, Domenic

    2017-01-01

    Counterfeiting is an increasing concern for businesses and governments as greater numbers of counterfeit integrated circuits (IC) infiltrate the global market. There is an ongoing effort in experimental and national labs inside the United States to detect and prevent such counterfeits in the most efficient time period. However, there is still a missing piece to automatically detect and properly keep record of detected counterfeit ICs. Here, we introduce a web application database that allows users to share previous examples of counterfeits through an online database and to obtain statistics regarding the prevalence of known defects. We also investigate automated techniques based on image processing and machine learning to detect different physical defects and to determine whether or not an IC is counterfeit.

  17. A mixture of five phthalate diesters cummulatively inhibit fetal testicular testoserone production in a manner consisent with their predicted reporduction toxicity in the Sprague Dawley rat.

    EPA Science Inventory

    Phthalate diesters are commonly-used plasticizers in intravenous bags, plastic food wrap and children’s toys, and the metabolites of multiple phthalates are detected in humans. In utero exposure to certain phthalates during sexual differentiation causes male reproductive tract m...

  18. First Case Report of SAM (registered trademark) Junctional Tourniquet Use in Afghanistan to Control Inguinal Hemorrhage on the Battlefield

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-02

    cal care nurse ( ECCN ) and flight medic arrived at the aid station to prepare the casualty for the MEDEVAC flight. Peripheral intravenous catheter...remained strong. The left leg’s distal pulses, however, were detected by manual palpa- tion by the ECCN . Reassessment of the wound site and bandage

  19. Intratumoral and peritumoral lymphovascular invasion detected by D2-40 immunohistochemistry correlates with metastasis in primary cutaneous Merkel cell carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Al-Rohil, Rami N; Milton, Denái R; Nagarajan, Priyadharsini; Curry, Jonathan L; Feldmeyer, Laurence; Torres-Cabala, Carlos A; Ivan, Doina; Prieto, Victor G; Tetzlaff, Michael T; Aung, Phyu P

    2018-07-01

    Primary cutaneous Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy in which lymphovascular invasion (LVI) correlates with more aggressive phenotype. The prognostic significance of LVI detected by D2-40 immunohistochemistry (IHC) in MCC remains controversial. We aimed to determine how LVI detected by D2-40 IHC compares with LVI detected by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining in predicting MCC metastasis. Clinical and histopathologic features of MCCs diagnosed and treated in 2002 to 2015 were assembled and included 58 MCC tumors from 58 patients. H&E-stained tissue sections and D2-40 IHC studies were reviewed. When LVI was present, the location (peritumoral or intratumoral) and the size of the largest invaded vessel were recorded. LVI findings by H&E staining and D2-40 IHC were compared with each other and with histologic features and clinical outcomes. H&E staining showed LVI in 37 of 58 cases; D2-40 IHC confirmed LVI in 30 of these cases but failed to confirm LVI in 7. D2-40 IHC also detected 14 cases of LVI not identified on H&E staining. Histologically, D2-40-detected LVI was associated with infiltrative growth pattern and nonbrisk lymphoid infiltrate (P = .005 and P = .055, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference between the frequency of detection of peritumoral LVI by H&E in comparison to D2-40 IHC (P = .0009). MCCs in which D2-40 IHC-detected both intratumoral and peritumoral LVI were typically larger than MCCs without (mean, 24.5 mm versus 17.3 mm; P = .03) and more frequently metastasized (87% versus 51%; P = .03). D2-40 IHC detection of both intratumoral and peritumoral LVI is associated with metastasis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Renal function in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease receiving intravenous ferric carboxymaltose: an analysis of the randomized FIND-CKD trial.

    PubMed

    Macdougall, Iain C; Bock, Andreas H; Carrera, Fernando; Eckardt, Kai-Uwe; Gaillard, Carlo; Van Wyck, David; Meier, Yvonne; Larroque, Sylvain; Roger, Simon D

    2017-01-17

    Preclinical studies demonstrate renal proximal tubular injury after administration of some intravenous iron preparations but clinical data on renal effects of intravenous iron are sparse. FIND-CKD was a 56-week, randomized, open-label, multicenter study in which patients with non-dialysis dependent chronic kidney disease (ND-CKD), anemia and iron deficiency without erythropoiesis-stimulating agent therapy received intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), targeting either higher (400-600 μg/L) or lower (100-200 μg/L) ferritin values, or oral iron. Mean (SD) eGFR at baseline was 34.9 (11.3), 32.8 (10.8) and 34.2 (12.3) mL/min/1.73 m 2 in the high ferritin FCM (n = 97), low ferritin FCM (n = 89) and oral iron (n = 167) groups, respectively. Corresponding values at month 12 were 35.6 (13.8), 32.1 (12.7) and 33.4 (14.5) mL/min/1.73 m 2 . The pre-specified endpoint of mean (SE) change in eGFR from baseline to month 12 was +0.7 (0.9) mL/min/1.73 m 2 with high ferritin FCM (p = 0.15 versus oral iron), -0.9 (0.9) mL/min/1.73 m 2 with low ferritin FCM (p = 0.99 versus oral iron) and -0.9 (0.7) mL/min/1.73 m 2 with oral iron. No significant association was detected between quartiles of FCM dose, change in ferritin or change in TSAT versus change in eGFR. Dialysis initiation was similar between groups. Renal adverse events were rare, with no indication of between-group differences. Intravenous FCM at doses that maintained ferritin levels of 100-200 μg/L or 400-600 μg/L did not negatively impact renal function (eGFR) in patients with ND-CKD over 12 months versus oral iron, and eGFR remained stable. These findings show no evidence of renal toxicity following intravenous FCM over a 1-year period. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00994318 (first registration 12 October 2009).

  1. In Vivo Detection of EGFRvIII in Glioblastoma via Perfusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging Signature Consistent with Deep Peritumoral Infiltration: The φ-Index.

    PubMed

    Bakas, Spyridon; Akbari, Hamed; Pisapia, Jared; Martinez-Lage, Maria; Rozycki, Martin; Rathore, Saima; Dahmane, Nadia; O'Rourke, Donald M; Davatzikos, Christos

    2017-08-15

    Purpose: The epidermal growth factor receptor variant III ( EGFRvIII ) mutation has been considered a driver mutation and therapeutic target in glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive brain cancer. Currently, detecting EGFRvIII requires postoperative tissue analyses, which are ex vivo and unable to capture the tumor's spatial heterogeneity. Considering the increasing evidence of in vivo imaging signatures capturing molecular characteristics of cancer, this study aims to detect EGFRvIII in primary glioblastoma noninvasively, using routine clinically acquired imaging. Experimental Design: We found peritumoral infiltration and vascularization patterns being related to EGFRvIII status. We therefore constructed a quantitative within-patient peritumoral heterogeneity index (PHI/φ-index), by contrasting perfusion patterns of immediate and distant peritumoral edema. Application of φ-index in preoperative perfusion scans of independent discovery ( n = 64) and validation ( n = 78) cohorts, revealed the generalizability of this EGFRvIII imaging signature. Results: Analysis in both cohorts demonstrated that the obtained signature is highly accurate (89.92%), specific (92.35%), and sensitive (83.77%), with significantly distinctive ability ( P = 4.0033 × 10 -10 , AUC = 0.8869). Findings indicated a highly infiltrative-migratory phenotype for EGFRvIII + tumors, which displayed similar perfusion patterns throughout peritumoral edema. Contrarily, EGFRvIII - tumors displayed perfusion dynamics consistent with peritumorally confined vascularization, suggesting potential benefit from extensive peritumoral resection/radiation. Conclusions: This EGFRvIII signature is potentially suitable for clinical translation, since obtained from analysis of clinically acquired images. Use of within-patient heterogeneity measures, rather than population-based associations, renders φ-index potentially resistant to inter-scanner variations. Overall, our findings enable noninvasive evaluation of EGFRvIII for patient selection for targeted therapy, stratification into clinical trials, personalized treatment planning, and potentially treatment-response evaluation. Clin Cancer Res; 23(16); 4724-34. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

  2. Pharmacokinetics of ketamine and norketamine enantiomers after racemic or S-ketamine IV bolus administration in dogs during sevoflurane anaesthesia.

    PubMed

    Romagnoli, Noemi; Bektas, Rima N; Kutter, Annette P; Barbarossa, Andrea; Roncada, Paola; Hartnack, Sonja; Bettschart-Wolfensberger, Regula

    2017-06-01

    The aims of this study were to measure plasma levels of R- and S-ketamine and their major metabolites R- and S-norketamine following single intravenous bolus administration of racemic or S-ketamine in sevoflurane anaesthetised dogs and to calculate the relevant pharmacokinetic profiles. Six adult healthy beagle dogs were used in the study. An intravenous bolus of 4mg/kg racemic ketamine (RS-KET) or 2mg/kg S-ketamine (S-KET) was administered, with a three-weeks washout period between treatments. Venous blood samples were collected at fixed times until 900min and R- and S-ketamine as well as R- and S-norketamine plasma levels determined by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Cardiovascular parameters were recorded during the anaesthesia until 240min. All dogs recovered well from anaesthesia. No statistical differences between groups were detected in any cardiovascular parameter. The pharmacokinetics of S-ketamine did not differ when injected intravenously alone or as part of the racemic mixture in dogs anaesthetised with sevoflurane. Following racemic ketamine, the area under the curve of R-norketamine was statistically higher than the one of S-norketamine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Adding Paracetamol to Ibuprofen for the Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Hochwald, Ori; Mainzer, Gur; Borenstein-Levin, Liron; Jubran, Huda; Dinur, Gil; Zucker, Meirav; Mor, Malka; Khoury, Asaad; Kugelman, Amir

    2018-05-21

     The objective of this study was to compare the closure rate of hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) of intravenous ibuprofen + paracetamol (acetaminophen) versus ibuprofen + placebo, in preterm infants of 24 to 31 6/7 weeks postmenstrual age.  This is a single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled pilot study. Infants were assigned for treatment with either intravenous ibuprofen + paracetamol ( n  = 12) or ibuprofen + placebo ( n  = 12).  There was no statistical difference in baseline characteristics of the two groups. Echocardiography parameters were comparable before treatment in both groups. There was a trend toward higher hsPDA closure rate in the paracetamol group in comparison to the placebo group (83 vs. 42%, p  = 0.08). No adverse effects, clinical or laboratory, were associated with adding paracetamol.  Our pilot study was unable to detect a beneficial effect by adding intravenous paracetamol to ibuprofen for the treatment of hsPDA. Larger prospective studies are needed to explore the positive tendency suggested by our results and to assure safety. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

  4. Investigation of the roles of fascioliasis and food allergy in intrahepatic eosinophilic proliferative pylephlebitis in Japanese Black cattle.

    PubMed

    Kishida, Kazuki; Ohkusu-Tsukada, Kozo; Hori, Makito; Konnai, Masaki; Abiko, Chieko; Suzuki, Yoshikazu; Yamanome, Yukito; Yoshimura, Hisashi; Michishita, Masaki; Takahashi, Kimimasa

    2013-05-01

    Intrahepatic eosinophilic proliferative pylephlebitis (EPP) in Japanese Black (JB) cattle generally has been considered to be an atypical form of fascioliasis. However, there are many cases of EPP in which no Fasciola spp. have been detected in the livers of affected cattle. The aims of this study were to ascertain the relationship between EPP and hepatic fascioliasis and to investigate the role of food allergy in the disease. Histologically, EPP lesions were characterised by severe endothelial proliferation of the interlobular veins, accompanied by varying degrees of fibrosis and eosinophilic infiltration in portal areas, which could be differentiated from chronic cholangiohepatitis, the typical lesion of hepatic fascioliasis. In addition to hepatic lesions, all cases of EPP had varying degrees of eosinophilic infiltration in the perilymphoid red pulp of the spleen, whereas both affected and unaffected animals had eosinophilic infiltrates in the mucosa of the small intestine. Antibodies against Fasciola spp. were detected in 1/14 EPP cases by ELISA; the seropositive case had EPP in combination with chronic cholangitis. There was no significant difference in total concentration of IgE between cases of EPP and unaffected cattle. Serum IgE levels specific to curly dock (Rumex crispus) and oats (Avena sativa) were higher in EPP cases than in unaffected cattle by allergen profiling screening testing and ELISA. The results of this study suggest that hepatic fascioliasis is unlikely to be the cause of EPP in JB cattle and that food allergens should be investigated as possible aetiological agents. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Pulmonary infiltrates in non-HIV immunocompromised patients: a diagnostic approach using non-invasive and bronchoscopic procedures

    PubMed Central

    Rano, A; Agusti, C; Jimenez, P; Angrill, J; Benito, N; Danes, C; Gonzalez, J; Rovira, M; Pumarola, T; Moreno, A; Torres, A

    2001-01-01

    BACKGROUND—The development of pulmonary infiltrates is a frequent life threatening complication in immunocompromised patients, requiring early diagnosis and specific treatment. In the present study non-invasive and bronchoscopic diagnostic techniques were applied in patients with different non-HIV immunocompromised conditions to determine the aetiology of the pulmonary infiltrates and to evaluate the impact of these methods on therapeutic decisions and outcome in this population.
METHODS—The non-invasive diagnostic methods included serological tests, blood antigen detection, and blood, nasopharyngeal wash (NPW), sputum and tracheobronchial aspirate (TBAS) cultures. Bronchoscopic techniques included fibrobronchial aspirate (FBAS), protected specimen brush (PSB), and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Two hundred consecutive episodes of pulmonary infiltrates were prospectively evaluated during a 30 month period in 52 solid organ transplant recipients, 53 haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients, 68 patients with haematological malignancies, and 27 patients requiring chronic treatment with corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive drugs.
RESULTS—An aetiological diagnosis was obtained in 162 (81%) of the 200 patients. The aetiology of the pulmonary infiltrates was infectious in 125 (77%) and non-infectious in 37 (23%); 38 (19%) remained undiagnosed. The main infectious aetiologies were bacterial (48/125, 24%), fungal (33/125, 17%), and viral (20/125, 10%), and the most frequent pathogens were Aspergillus fumigatus (n=29), Staphylococcus aureus (n=17), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=12). Among the non-infectious aetiologies, pulmonary oedema (16/37, 43%) and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (10/37, 27%) were the most common causes. Non-invasive techniques led to the diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates in 41% of the cases in which they were used; specifically, the diagnostic yield of blood cultures was 30/191 (16%); sputum cultures 27/88 (31%); NPW 9/50 (18%); and TBAS 35/55 (65%). Bronchoscopic techniques led to the diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates in 59% of the cases in which they were used: FBAS 16/28 (57%), BAL 68/135 (51%), and PSB 30/125 (24%). The results obtained with the different techniques led to a change in antibiotic treatment in 93 cases (46%). Although changes in treatment did not have an impact on the overall mortality, patients with pulmonary infiltrates of an infectious aetiology in whom the change was made during the first 7 days had a better outcome (29% mortality) than those in whom treatment was changed later (71% mortality; p=0.001).
CONCLUSIONS—Non-invasive and bronchoscopic procedures are useful techniques for the diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates in immunocompromised patients. Bronchial aspirates (FBAS and TBAS) and BAL have the highest diagnostic yield and impact on therapeutic decisions.

 PMID:11312407

  6. Intestinal absorption, organ distribution, and urinary excretion of the rare sugar D-psicose

    PubMed Central

    Tsukamoto, Ikuko; Hossain, Akram; Yamaguchi, Fuminori; Hirata, Yuko; Dong, Youyi; Kamitori, Kazuyo; Sui, Li; Nonaka, Machiko; Ueno, Masaki; Nishimoto, Kazuyuki; Suda, Hirofumi; Morimoto, Kenji; Shimonishi, Tsuyoshi; Saito, Madoka; Song, Tao; Konishi, Ryoji; Tokuda, Masaaki

    2014-01-01

    Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate intestinal absorption, organ distribution, and urinary elimination of the rare sugar D-psicose, a 3-carbon stereoisomer of D-fructose that is currently being investigated and which has been found to be strongly effective against hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Methods This study was performed using radioactive D-psicose, which was synthesized enzymatically from radioactive D-allose. Concentrations in whole blood, urine, and organs were measured at different time points until 2 hours after both oral and intravenous administrations and 7 days after a single oral administration (100 mg/kg body weight) to Wistar rats. Autoradiography was also performed by injecting 100 mg/kg body weight of 14C-labeled D-psicose or glucose intravenously to C3H mice. Results Following oral administration, D-psicose easily moved to blood. The maximum blood concentration (48.5±15.6 μg/g) was observed at 1 hour. Excretion to urine was 20% within 1 hour and 33% within 2 hours. Accumulation to organs was detected only in the liver. Following intravenous administration, blood concentration was decreased with the half-life=57 minutes, and the excretion to urine was up to almost 50% within 1 hour. Similarly to the results obtained with oral administration, accumulation to organs was detected only in the liver. Seven days after the single-dose oral administration, the remaining amounts in the whole body were less than 1%. Autoradiography of mice showed results similar to those in rats. High signals of 14C-labeled D-psicose were observed in liver, kidney, and bladder. Interestingly, no accumulation of D-psicose was observed in the brain. Conclusion D-psicose was absorbed well after oral administration and eliminated rapidly after both oral and intravenous administrations, with short duration of action. The study provides valuable pharmacokinetic data for further drug development of D-psicose. Because the findings were mainly based on animal study, it is necessary to implement human trials to study the metabolism pathway, which would give an important guide for human intake and food application of D-psicose. PMID:25378908

  7. Intravenous Cobinamide Versus Hydroxocobalamin for Acute Treatment of Severe Cyanide Poisoning in a Swine (Sus scrofa) Model

    PubMed Central

    Bebarta, Lt Col Vikhyat S.; Tanen, David A.; Boudreau, Susan; Castaneda, Maria; Zarzabal, Lee A.; Vargas, Toni; Boss, Gerry R.

    2015-01-01

    Study objective Hydroxocobalamin is a Food and Drug Administration–approved antidote for cyanide poisoning. Cobinamide is a potential antidote that contains 2 cyanide-binding sites. To our knowledge, no study has directly compared hydroxocobalamin with cobinamide in a severe, cyanide-toxic large-animal model. Our objective is to compare the time to return of spontaneous breathing in swine with acute cyanide-induced apnea treated with intravenous hydroxocobalamin, intravenous cobinamide, or saline solution (control). Methods Thirty-three swine (45 to 55 kg) were intubated, anesthetized, and instrumented (continuous mean arterial pressure and cardiac output monitoring). Anesthesia was adjusted to allow spontaneous breathing with FiO2 of 21% during the experiment. Cyanide was continuously infused intravenously until apnea occurred and lasted for 1 minute (time zero). Animals were then randomly assigned to receive intravenous hydroxocobalamin (65 mg/kg), cobinamide (12.5 mg/kg), or saline solution and monitored for 60 minutes. A sample size of 11 animals per group was selected according to obtaining a power of 80%, an α of .05, and an SD of 0.17 in mean time to detect a 20% difference in time to spontaneous breathing. We assessed differences in time to death among groups, using Kaplan-Meier estimation methods, and compared serum lactate, blood pH, cardiac output, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate, and minute ventilation time curves with repeated-measures ANOVA. Results Baseline weights and vital signs were similar among groups. The time to apnea and cyanide dose required to achieve apnea were similar. At time zero, mean cyanide blood and lactate concentrations and reduction in mean arterial pressure from baseline were similar. In the saline solution group, 2 of 11 animals survived compared with 10 of 11 in the hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide groups (P<.001 between the 2 treated groups and the saline solution group). Time to return of spontaneous breathing after antidote was similar between hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide (1 minute 48 seconds versus 1 minute 49 seconds, respectively). Blood cyanide concentrations became undetectable at the end of the study in both antidote-treated groups, and no statistically significant differences were detected between the 2 groups for mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, respiratory rate, lactate, or pH. Conclusion Both hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide rescued severely cyanide-poisoned swine from apnea in the absence of assisted ventilation. The dose of cobinamide was one fifth that of hydroxocobalamin. PMID:24746273

  8. Intravenous cobinamide versus hydroxocobalamin for acute treatment of severe cyanide poisoning in a swine (Sus scrofa) model.

    PubMed

    Bebarta, Vikhyat S; Tanen, David A; Boudreau, Susan; Castaneda, Maria; Zarzabal, Lee A; Vargas, Toni; Boss, Gerry R

    2014-12-01

    Hydroxocobalamin is a Food and Drug Administration-approved antidote for cyanide poisoning. Cobinamide is a potential antidote that contains 2 cyanide-binding sites. To our knowledge, no study has directly compared hydroxocobalamin with cobinamide in a severe, cyanide-toxic large-animal model. Our objective is to compare the time to return of spontaneous breathing in swine with acute cyanide-induced apnea treated with intravenous hydroxocobalamin, intravenous cobinamide, or saline solution (control). Thirty-three swine (45 to 55 kg) were intubated, anesthetized, and instrumented (continuous mean arterial pressure and cardiac output monitoring). Anesthesia was adjusted to allow spontaneous breathing with FiO2 of 21% during the experiment. Cyanide was continuously infused intravenously until apnea occurred and lasted for 1 minute (time zero). Animals were then randomly assigned to receive intravenous hydroxocobalamin (65 mg/kg), cobinamide (12.5 mg/kg), or saline solution and monitored for 60 minutes. A sample size of 11 animals per group was selected according to obtaining a power of 80%, an α of .05, and an SD of 0.17 in mean time to detect a 20% difference in time to spontaneous breathing. We assessed differences in time to death among groups, using Kaplan-Meier estimation methods, and compared serum lactate, blood pH, cardiac output, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate, and minute ventilation time curves with repeated-measures ANOVA. Baseline weights and vital signs were similar among groups. The time to apnea and cyanide dose required to achieve apnea were similar. At time zero, mean cyanide blood and lactate concentrations and reduction in mean arterial pressure from baseline were similar. In the saline solution group, 2 of 11 animals survived compared with 10 of 11 in the hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide groups (P<.001 between the 2 treated groups and the saline solution group). Time to return of spontaneous breathing after antidote was similar between hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide (1 minute 48 seconds versus 1 minute 49 seconds, respectively). Blood cyanide concentrations became undetectable at the end of the study in both antidote-treated groups, and no statistically significant differences were detected between the 2 groups for mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, respiratory rate, lactate, or pH. Both hydroxocobalamin and cobinamide rescued severely cyanide-poisoned swine from apnea in the absence of assisted ventilation. The dose of cobinamide was one fifth that of hydroxocobalamin. Copyright © 2014 American College of Emergency Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. In vivo magnetic resonance imaging of atherosclerotic lesions with a newly developed Evans blue-DTPA-gadolinium contrast medium in apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice.

    PubMed

    Yasuda, Satoshi; Ikuta, Kenjiro; Uwatoku, Toyokazu; Oi, Keiji; Abe, Kohtaro; Hyodo, Fuminori; Yoshimitsu, Kengo; Sugimura, Kohtaro; Utsumi, Hideo; Katayama, Yoshiki; Shimokawa, Hiroaki

    2008-01-01

    Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents that specifically detect atherosclerotic plaque may be useful for the noninvasive detection of the plaque. We have recently developed a new contrast agent, Evans blue-DTPA-gadolinium (EB-DTPA-Gd), which selectively accumulates vascular lesions with endothelial removal. In this study, we examined whether EB-DTPA-Gd is also useful for in vivo imaging of atherosclerotic plaques. We used male apolipoprotein-E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice of different ages (3, 6 and 12 months old) and age-matched male wild-type mice. After a single intravenous administration of EB-DTPA-Gd (160 microM/kg body weight), MRI T(1) signal was obtained in vivo. Increased signal intensity in the aortic wall was noted within 10-20 min after intravenous injection of EB-DTPA-Gd and was maintained for 30 min. The MRI enhancement in the aorta of ApoE-/- mice was increased in accordance with age, whereas no such enhancement was noted in wild-type mice. Histological examination demonstrated that there was a topological correlation between the site of MRI enhancement and that of atherosclerotic plaque. These results indicate that EB-DTPA-Gd is a useful MRI contrast medium for the in vivo detection of atherosclerotic plaques. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  10. [Granulomatosis with polyangiitis manifested as diabetes insipidus].

    PubMed

    Pátek, Ondřej; Horáčková, Miroslava; Vítová, Lenka; Horváth, Rudolf; Háček, Jaromír; Schück, Otto

    The case report shows a surprising presentation of pulmonary granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) through symptoms of diabetes insipidus (DI) with granulomatous infiltration of the pituitary gland. The pituitary hormonal dysfunction as a result of granulomatosis of the pituitary gland is rare. Several studies have demonstrated that the incidence of the pituitary dysfunction reaches approx. 1 % of the patients with GPA. However it is mostly presented in patients with the disease already diagnosed. The patient described by us had no clinical expressions of GPA in the respiratory tract. He presented with polyuria and polydipsia. It was not until a more detailed examination of these symptoms was performed that a focal lung disease was detected and diagnosed as GPA. diabetes insipidus - granulomatosis with polyangiitis - granulomatous infiltration of the pituitary gland - pituitary hormonal dysfunction.

  11. Cancer related gene alterations can be detected with next-generation sequencing analysis of bile in diffusely infiltrating type cholangiocarcinoma.

    PubMed

    Lee, Chang Hun; Wang, Hong En; Seo, Seung Young; Kim, Seong Hun; Kim, In Hee; Kim, Sang Wook; Lee, Soo Teik; Kim, Dae Ghon; Han, Myung Kwan; Lee, Seung Ok

    2016-08-01

    Genome-wide association study in diffusely infiltrating type cholangiocarcinoma (CC) can be limited due to the difficulty of obtaining tumor tissue. We aimed to evaluate the genomic alterations of diffusely infiltrating type CC using next-generation sequencing (NGS) of bile and to compare the variations with those of mass-forming type CC. A total of 24 bile samples obtained during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and 17 surgically obtained tumor tissue samples were evaluated. Buffy coat and normal tissue samples were used as controls for a somatic mutation analysis. After extraction of genomic DNA, NGS analysis was performed for 48 cancer related genes. There were 27 men and 14 women with a mean age of 65.0±11.8years. The amount of extracted genomic DNA from 3cm(3) of bile was 66.0±84.7μg and revealed a high depth of sequencing coverage. All of the patients had genomic variations, with an average number of 19.4±2.8 and 22.3±3.3 alterations per patient from the bile and tumor tissue, respectively. After filtering process, damaging SNPs (8 sites for each type of CC) were predicted by analyzing tools, and their target genes showed relevant differences between the diffusely infiltrating and mass-forming type CC. Finally, in somatic mutation analysis, tumor-normal paired 14 tissue and 6 bile samples were analyzed, genomic alterations of EGFR, FGFR1, ABL1, PIK3CA, and CDKN2A gene were seen in the diffusely infiltrating type CC, and TP53, KRAS, APC, GNA11, ERBB4, ATM, SMAD4, BRAF, and IDH1 were altered in the mass-forming type CC group. STK11, GNAQ, RB1, KDR, and SMO genes were revealed in both groups. The NGS analysis was feasible with bile sample and diffusely infiltrating type CC revealed genetic differences compared with mass-forming type CC. Genome-wide association study could be performed using bile sample in the patients with CC undergoing ERCP and a different genetic approach for accurate diagnosis, pathogenesis study, and targeted therapy will be needed in diffusely infiltrating type CC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Electrical resistivity imaging study of near-surface infiltration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lampousis, Angelos

    High resolution electrical resistivity images (ERI method) were obtained during vadose zone infiltration experiments on agricultural soils in cooperation with Cornell University's Agricultural Stewardship Program, Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, Extension Education Center, Riverhead, New York [ as well as Cornell University's Long Island Horticultural Research & Extension Center (LIHREC) in Riverhead, New York]. One natural soil was also studied. Infiltration was monitored by means of image analysis of two-dimensional array resistivity generated by a Syscal Kid Switch resistivity system (Griffiths et al., 1990). The data was inverted with the computer program RES2DINV (Loke, 2004). The agricultural soils considered were Riverhead sandy loam (RdA), Haven loam (HaA), and Bridgehampton silt loam (BgA). The natural site was located in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. The soils there are classified as Schoharie silty clay loam. The electrical images of the three sites were compared against established soil properties, including particle size distribution, available water capacity, and soluble salts (from the literature), as well as against site-specific soil samples and penetrometer data, which were collected along with the geophysical measurements. This research evaluates the potential of acquiring high resolution, non-destructive measurements of infiltration in the uppermost 1.5 meter of the vadose zone. The results demonstrate that resistivity differences can detect infiltration in soils typical of the north-eastern United States. Temporal and spatial variations of soil water content in the upper 1.5 meters (relevant to agriculture) of the subsurface can be monitored successfully and non-destructively with ERI. The sensitivity of the method is higher in subsurface environments that demonstrate high overall apparent resistivity values (e.g. high sand content). Under conditions of increased soil heterogeneity, instead of the formation of a continuous water plume as occurred in the homogeneous agricultural soils, the location of the infiltrated water seems to be highly influenced by the soil heterogeneity, and the water front is scattered into discontinuous layers and travels in additional directions. The geophysical results during infiltration correlate well with soil compaction data. It follows that the ERI method can be used as a proxy for soil compaction and water content variations in agricultural applications. In a natural environment, ERI successfully maps the tree root zone of mature trees. Applications include continuous water content monitoring in high value cash crops, such as viticulture (precision agriculture).

  13. Tumour detection and localization using 99Tcm-labelled OV-TL 3 Fab' in patients suspected of ovarian cancer.

    PubMed

    Tibben, J G; Massuger, L F; Claessens, R A; Schijf, C P; Pak, K Y; Strijk, S P; Kenemans, P; Corstens, F H

    1992-12-01

    Fab' fragments of the monoclonal antibody OV-TL 3, that recognizes an ovarian carcinoma-associated antigen (OA3), were labelled with 99Tcm using D-glucarate as a ligand. Twenty patients suspected of having primary or recurrent ovarian cancer received intravenously 1 mg of the Fab' labelled with 740 MBq 99Tcm. Both planar and single photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT) scintigraphy were performed up to 30 h after intravenous infusion. In 19 out of 20 patients surgical and histopathological evaluation was performed between 2 and 6 days postinfusion. Imaging results were compared with X-ray computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography (US) and CA 125 serum level. Blood clearance was fast with median t1/2 beta of 9.5 h. Thirty-seven per cent of the injected dose (% ID) was excreted in the urine within the first 24 h, whereas 7% ID was excreted in the 24 h faeces. In one patient with an OA3 negative ovarian carcinoma, radioimmunoscintigraphy (RIS) did not visualize the tumour. In two other patients a benign ovarian cyst was found, also showing no elevated uptake. In 13 out of 17 patients ovarian cancer lesions were detected with RIS, whereas CT and US detected lesions in, respectively, 15 and 12 patients. Of 36 surgically defined tumour deposits larger than 1 cm in diameter, 53% were detected and localized with RIS, whereas CT and US detected 61 and 40%, respectively. Radioimmunoscintigraphy with 99Tcm-OV-TL 3 Fab' is less distressing for the patients but the overall imaging performance is not improved when compared with 111In-OV-TL 3 F(ab')2.

  14. Surgical anesthesia with a combination of T12 paravertebral block and lumbar plexus, sacral plexus block for hip replacement in ankylosing spondylitis: CARE-compliant 4 case reports.

    PubMed

    Ke, Xijian; Li, Ji; Liu, Yong; Wu, Xi; Mei, Wei

    2017-06-26

    Anesthesia management for patients with severe ankylosing spondylitis scheduled for total hip arthroplasty is challenging due to a potential difficult airway and difficult neuraxial block. We report 4 cases with ankylosing spondylitis successfully managed with a combination of lumbar plexus, sacral plexus and T12 paravertebral block. Four patients were scheduled for total hip arthroplasty. All of them were diagnosed as severe ankylosing spondylitis with rigidity and immobilization of cervical and lumbar spine and hip joints. A combination of T12 paravertebral block, lumbar plexus and sacral plexus block was successfully used for the surgery without any additional intravenous anesthetic or local anesthetics infiltration to the incision, and none of the patients complained of discomfort during the operations. The combination of T12 paravertebral block, lumbar plexus and sacral plexus block, which may block all nerves innervating the articular capsule, surrounding muscles and the skin involved in total hip arthroplasty, might be a promising alternative for total hip arthroplasty in ankylosing spondylitis.

  15. Residual splenic function in the presence of thorotrast-associated hepatic tumor: case report

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

    Spencer, R.P.; Turner, J.W.; Syed, I.B.

    1976-03-01

    A 50-year-old man had received intravenous colloidal thorium dioxide (thorotrast) 27 years previously. Scintiscans with both $sup 99$/sup m/Tc-sulfur colloid and $sup 131$I-rose bengal revealed an extensive intrahepatic defect. At operation, the lesion proved to be an infiltrating hemangiosarcoma. The spleen was small but the chronic internal radiation of the spleen had not completely destroyed the function of radiocolloid uptake. Review of the literature disclosed other cases in which th spleen was still capable of accumulating radiocolloid some years after thorotrast administration. In at least one other instance, radiocolloid uptake was not accompanied by splenic ability to clear Howell--Jolly bodies:more » a disassociation of splenic functions. The effects of the internal radiation dose to the spleen from thorotrast are discussed and compared with the effects of external radiation. The discrepancy between the effects of the two doses may be related to the high relative biologic effectiveness of the alpha rays from thorotrast compared with x-radiation, to nonuniformity of distribution, and to the effects of reticuloendothelial blockade. (auth)« less

  16. The Four-Herb Chinese Medicine Formula Tuo-Li-Xiao-Du-San Accelerates Cutaneous Wound Healing in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats through Reducing Inflammation and Increasing Angiogenesis

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xiao-na; Ma, Ze-jun; Wang, Ying; Li, Yu-zhu; Sun, Bei; Guo, Xin; Pan, Cong-qing; Chen, Li-ming

    2016-01-01

    Impaired wound healing in diabetic patients is a serious complication that often leads to amputation or even death with limited effective treatments. Tuo-Li-Xiao-Du-San (TLXDS), a traditional Chinese medicine formula for refractory wounds, has been prescribed for nearly 400 years in China and shows good efficacy in promoting healing. In this study, we explored the effect of TLXDS on healing of diabetic wounds and investigated underlying mechanisms. Four weeks after intravenous injection of streptozotocin, two full-thickness excisional wounds were created with a 10 mm diameter sterile biopsy punch on the back of rats. The ethanol extract of TLXDS was given once daily by oral gavage. Wound area, histological change, inflammation, angiogenesis, and collagen synthesis were evaluated. TLXDS treatment significantly accelerated healing of diabetic rats and improved the healing quality. These effects were associated with reduced neutrophil infiltration and macrophage accumulation, enhanced angiogenesis, and increased collagen deposition. This study shows that TLXDS improves diabetes-impaired wound healing. PMID:27057551

  17. Massive nerve root enlargement in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.

    PubMed Central

    Schady, W; Goulding, P J; Lecky, B R; King, R H; Smith, C M

    1996-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To report three patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) presenting with symptoms suggestive of cervical (one patient) and lumbar root disease. METHODS: Nerve conduction studies, EMG, and nerve biopsy were carried out, having found the nerve roots to be very enlarged on MRI, CT myelography, and at surgery. RESULTS: Clinically, peripheral nerve thickening was slight or absent. Subsequently one patient developed facial nerve hypertrophy. This was mistaken for an inner ear tumour and biopsied, with consequent facial palsy. Neurophysiological tests suggested a demyelinating polyneuropathy. Sural nerve biopsy showed in all cases some loss of myelinated fibres, inflammatory cell infiltration, and a few onion bulbs. Hypertrophic changes were much more prominent on posterior nerve root biopsy in one patient: many fibres were surrounded by several layers of Schwann cell cytoplasm. There was an excellent response to steroids in two patients but not in the third (most advanced) patient, who has benefited only marginally from intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. CONCLUSIONS: MRI of the cauda equina may be a useful adjunct in the diagnosis of CIDP. Images PMID:8971116

  18. Novel technique of abdominal wall nerve block for laparoscopic colostomy: Rectus sheath block with transperitoneal approach.

    PubMed

    Nagata, Jun; Watanabe, Jun; Sawatsubashi, Yusuke; Akiyama, Masaki; Arase, Koichi; Minagawa, Noritaka; Torigoe, Takayuki; Hamada, Kotaro; Nakayama, Yoshifumi; Hirata, Keiji

    2017-08-27

    A 62-year-old man who had acute rectal obstruction due to a large rectal cancer is presented. He underwent emergency laparoscopic colostomy. We used the laparoscopic puncture needle to inject analgesia with the novel transperitoneal approach. In this procedure, both ultrasound and laparoscopic images assisted with the accurate injection of analgesic to the correct layer. The combination of laparoscopic visualization and ultrasound imaging ensured infiltration of analgesic into the correct layer without causing damage to the bowel. Twenty-four hours postoperatively, the patient's pain intensity as assessed by the numeric rating scale was 0-1 during coughing, and a continuous intravenous analgesic was not needed. Colostomy is often necessary in colon obstruction. Epidural anesthesia for postoperative pain cannot be used in patients with a coagulation disorder. We report the use of a novel laparoscopic rectus sheath block for colostomy. There has been no literature described about the nerve block with transperitoneal approach. The laparoscopic rectus sheath block was performed safely and had enough analgesic efficacy for postoperative pain. This technique could be considered as an optional anesthetic regimen in acute situations.

  19. Detection of Peptide-based nanoparticles in blood plasma by ELISA.

    PubMed

    Bode, Gerard H; Pickl, Karin E; Sanchez-Purrà, Maria; Albaiges, Berta; Borrós, Salvador; Pötgens, Andy J G; Schmitz, Christoph; Sinner, Frank M; Losen, Mario; Steinbusch, Harry W M; Frank, Hans-Georg; Martinez-Martinez, Pilar

    2015-01-01

    The aim of the current study was to develop a method to detect peptide-linked nanoparticles in blood plasma. A convenient enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the detection of peptides functionalized with biotin and fluorescein groups. As a proof of principle, polymerized pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles linked to biotin-carboxyfluorescein labeled peptides were intravenously injected in Wistar rats. Serial blood plasma samples were analyzed by ELISA and by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. The ELISA based method for the detection of FITC labeled peptides had a detection limit of 1 ng/mL. We were able to accurately measure peptides bound to pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles in blood plasma of rats, and similar results were obtained by LC/MS. We detected FITC-labeled peptides on pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles after injection in vivo. This method can be extended to detect nanoparticles with different chemical compositions.

  20. Detection of Peptide-Based Nanoparticles in Blood Plasma by ELISA

    PubMed Central

    Bode, Gerard H.; Pickl, Karin E.; Sanchez-Purrà, Maria; Albaiges, Berta; Borrós, Salvador; Pötgens, Andy J. G.; Schmitz, Christoph; Sinner, Frank M.; Losen, Mario; Steinbusch, Harry W. M.; Frank, Hans-Georg; Martinez-Martinez, Pilar

    2015-01-01

    Aims The aim of the current study was to develop a method to detect peptide-linked nanoparticles in blood plasma. Materials & Methods A convenient enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the detection of peptides functionalized with biotin and fluorescein groups. As a proof of principle, polymerized pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles linked to biotin-carboxyfluorescein labeled peptides were intravenously injected in Wistar rats. Serial blood plasma samples were analyzed by ELISA and by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. Results The ELISA based method for the detection of FITC labeled peptides had a detection limit of 1 ng/mL. We were able to accurately measure peptides bound to pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles in blood plasma of rats, and similar results were obtained by LC/MS. Conclusions We detected FITC-labeled peptides on pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles after injection in vivo. This method can be extended to detect nanoparticles with different chemical compositions. PMID:25996618

  1. Investigating expectation and reward in human opioid addiction with [(11) C]raclopride PET.

    PubMed

    Watson, Ben J; Taylor, Lindsay G; Reid, Alastair G; Wilson, Sue J; Stokes, Paul R; Brooks, David J; Myers, James F; Turkheimer, Federico E; Nutt, David J; Lingford-Hughes, Anne R

    2014-11-01

    The rewarding properties of some abused drugs are thought to reside in their ability to increase striatal dopamine levels. Similar increases have been shown in response to expectation of a positive drug effect. The actions of opioid drugs on striatal dopamine release are less well characterized. We examined whether heroin and the expectation of heroin reward increases striatal dopamine levels in human opioid addiction. Ten opioid-dependent participants maintained on either methadone or buprenorphine underwent [(11) C]raclopride positron emission tomography imaging. Opioid-dependent participants were scanned three times, receiving reward from 50-mg intravenous heroin (diamorphine; pharmaceutical heroin) during the first scan to generate expectation of the same reward at the second scan, during which they only received 0.1-mg intravenous heroin. There was no heroin injection during the third scan. Intravenous 50-mg heroin during the first scan induced pronounced effects leading to high levels of expectation at the second scan. There was no detectable increase in striatal dopamine levels to either heroin reward or expectation of reward. We believe this is the first human study to examine whether expectation of heroin reward increases striatal dopamine levels in opioid addiction. The absence of detectable increased dopamine levels to both the expectation and delivery of a heroin-related reward may have been due to the impact of substitute medication. It does however contrast with the changes seen in abstinent stimulant users, suggesting that striatal dopamine release alone may not play such a pivotal role in opioid-maintained individuals. © 2013 The Authors. Addiction Biology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society for the Study of Addiction.

  2. Hepatitis C virus genotypes in 1,504 patients in Slovenia, 1993-2007.

    PubMed

    Seme, Katja; Vrhovac, Maja; Mocilnik, Tina; Maticic, Mojca; Lesnicar, Gorazd; Baklan, Zvonko; Volkar, Jelka Meglic; Rajter, Mojca; Stepec, Srecko; Lunar, Maja; Poljak, Mario

    2009-04-01

    In order to identify the main routes of hepatitis C (HCV) transmission and to determine the HCV genotype distribution and its dynamics during a 15-year period in Slovenia, HCV genotypes were detected using the INNO-LiPA HCV II (Innogenetics) test for serum samples obtained from 1,504 patients representing 72.6% of all patients with chronic hepatitis C diagnosed from 1993 to 2007. HCV genotype 1 was predominant (56%), followed by genotypes 3, 2, and 4, with a prevalence of 37.8%, 5%, and 1.2%, respectively. HCV genotypes 5 and 6 were not detected in any patient. Patients infected with HCV genotype 3 were significantly younger (mean age 28.9 +/- 8.5 years) than those infected with genotype 1 (mean age 38.9 +/- 14.8 years; P < 0.0001) and those infected with HCV genotype 2 (mean age 50.3 +/- 18.2 years; P < 0.0001). Intravenous drug use was identified as the most frequent possible HCV transmission route (34.3%), followed by medical-related transmission such as transfusion of HCV-contaminated blood or blood products, and hemodialysis (12.5%). Being an intravenous drug user was found to be strongly associated with HCV genotype 3 (OR, 3.71 [95% CI, 2.97-4.65]; P < 0.0001) and reporting infection by transfusion of blood or blood products was found to be strongly associated with HCV genotype 1 (OR, 3.28 [95% CI, 2.18-4.95]; P < 0.0001). During the 15-year period, the proportion of genotype 3 increased substantially, reflecting the fact that the HCV epidemic in Slovenia is driven mostly by intravenous drug use. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  3. [Clinical application of MRI histogram in evaluation of muscle fatty infiltration].

    PubMed

    Zheng, Y M; Du, J; Li, W Z; Wang, Z X; Zhang, W; Xiao, J X; Yuan, Y

    2016-10-18

    To describe a method based on analysis of the histogram of intensity values produced from the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for quantifying the degree of fatty infiltration. The study included 25 patients with dystrophinopathy. All the subjects underwent muscle MRI test at thigh level. The histogram M values of 250 muscles adjusted for subcutaneous fat, representing the degree of fatty infiltration, were compared with the expert visual reading using the modified Mercuri scale. There was a significant positive correlation between the histogram M values and the scores of visual reading (r=0.854, P<0.001). The distinct pattern of muscle involvement detected in the patients with dystrophinopathy in our study of histogram M values was similar to that of visual reading and results in literature. The histogram M values had stronger correlations with the clinical data than the scores of visual reading as follows: the correlations with age (r=0.730, P<0.001) and (r=0.753, P<0.001); with strength of knee extensor (r=-0.468, P=0.024) and (r=-0.460, P=0.027) respectively. Meanwhile, the histogram M values analysis had better repeatability than visual reading with the interclass correlation coefficient was 0.998 (95% CI: 0.997-0.998, P<0.001) and 0.958 (95% CI: 0.946-0.967, P<0.001) respectively. Histogram M values analysis of MRI with the advantages of repeatability and objectivity can be used to evaluate the degree of muscle fatty infiltration.

  4. Enhanced UGT1A1 Gene and Protein Expression in Endometriotic Lesions.

    PubMed

    Piccinato, Carla A; Neme, Rosa M; Torres, Natália; da Silva Victor, Elivane; Brudniewski, Heloísa F; Rosa E Silva, Júlio C; Ferriani, Rui A

    2018-01-01

    The cellular function in endometriosis lesions depends on a highly estrogenic milieu. Lately, it is becoming evident that, besides the circulating levels of estrogens, the balance of synthesis versus inactivation (metabolism) of estrogens by intralesion steroid-metabolizing enzymes also determines the local net estrogen availability. In order to extend the knowledge of the role of estrogen-metabolizing enzymes in endometriosis, we investigated the gene and protein expression of a key uridine diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) for estrogen glucuronidation, UGT1A1, in eutopic endometrial samples obtained from nonaffected and endometriosis-affected women and also from endometriotic lesions. Although UGT1A1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was detected at similar frequencies in endometriotic lesions and in eutopic endometrial samples, the levels of mRNA expression were greater in deep-infiltrating endometriotic lesions and in non-deep-infiltrating lesions when compared with either control endometrium or eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis. Overall, we observed that protein expression of UGT1A1 was significantly more frequent in samples from endometriotic lesions in comparison with endometria. In addition, expression of UGT1A1 protein was greater in deep-infiltrating than in non-deep-infiltrating endometriotic lesions. We suggest that the finding of increased expression of UGT1A1 in lesions versus endometria might be related to impairment of regulatory mechanisms, in response to a highly estrogenic milieu, and that this enzyme may be a new target for therapy.

  5. Influence of needle bevel design on injection pain and needle deformation in dental local infiltration anaesthesia - randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Dau, M; Buttchereit, I; Ganz, C; Frerich, B; Anisimova, E N; Daubländer, M; Kämmerer, P W

    2017-11-01

    The aims of this in vivo study were to evaluate the impact of needle bevel design on patients' pain perception and the mechanical deformation of the needle tip after the injection. In a prospective single-blinded trial, 150 patients received conventional infiltration anaesthesia for dental treatment by one examiner. Patients were randomized for one out of three different needle bevel types (scalpel-designed bevel needle (SB), n=50; triple bevel needle (TB), n=50; regular bevel needle (RB), n=50). Subjects' self-reported injection pain perception was evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS). For each needle tip, deformations after single use were measured using SEM. A significant lower injection pain level was found in SB (mean 2.1±1.2) than in TB (mean 3.5±1.6;) and RB (mean 3.4±1.0; all P<0.001). A needle deformation was detected in about 97.3% of all needles (SB 50/50, TB 50/50, and RB: 46/50). A higher number of barbs were found in SB (29/50) versus TB (17/50) and RB (19/50). For dental local infiltration anaesthesia, injection needles with a scalpel-designed bevel demonstrated significantly less injection pain. Needle tip deflections after anaesthetic agent infiltration, especially barbed hooks on the non-cutting edge may result in greater soft tissue trauma. Copyright © 2017 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Evaluating wood-based composites for incipient fungal decay with the immunodiagnostic wood decay test.

    Treesearch

    C.A. Clausen; L. Haughton; C. Murphy

    2003-01-01

    Early and accurate detection of the extent of fungal deterioration during forensic inspection of the building envelope would eliminate excessive or unnecessary replacement of wood-based building materials. Areas of water infiltration in wood-framed building envelopes in the Pacific Northwest were evaluated visually and sampled for moisture content. Wood samples were...

  7. Detection of theileria parva in tissues of cattle undergoing severe east coast fever disease show significant parasite accumulation in the spleen

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Infiltration and proliferation of Theileria parva infected lymphocytes in bovine host lymphoid organs is one of the hallmarks of T. parva infection. The relative abundance of parasites within infected host tissues, both lymphoid and non-lymphoid is however unknown. Using quantitative PCR, we have sh...

  8. Lead poisoning associated with intravenous-methamphetamine use--Oregon, 1988

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

    Chandler, D.B.; Norton, R.L.; Kauffman, K.W.

    1990-02-09

    Between August 1 and September 6, 1988, 14 cases of non-A, non-B (NANB) hepatitis were reported in Marion County, Oregon, to the Oregon Health Division (OHD) by the county health department and private physicians. Previously, an average of less than one case per month was reported in the county. During the same period, OHD learned that eight intravenous-methamphetamine users (IVMUs) in Oregon thought to have NANB hepatitis had also been recently diagnosed with lead poisoning. A statewide media campaign describing the lead poisoning outbreak was conducted to alert IVMUs, physicians, and county health departments. In addition, OHD implemented a reportingmore » system for suspected and confirmed lead poisoning cases. Analysis of an illicit methamphetamine sample provided by one of the patients with confirmed lead poisoning detected 60% lead by weight.« less

  9. Symptomatic hypophosphataemic osteomalacia secondary to the treatment with iron carboxymaltose detected in bone scintigraphy.

    PubMed

    Sangrós Sahún, M J; Goñi Gironés, E; Camarero Salazar, A; Estébanez Estébanez, C; Lozano Martínez, M E

    The development of hypophosphataemic osteomalacia has been linked with several treatments, mainly antiretroviral and intravenous iron administration. The frequency of the hypophosphataemia requires monitoring the phosphate after the administration of iron carboxymaltose. We describe a case of a woman with no calcium-phosphorous metabolism disorder, to whom this treatment was prescribed for anaemia due to menorrhagia and intolerance to oral iron. She started with oligoarticular pain, which was spreading with a significant functional loss. The relationship with the administration of intravenous iron was discovered when scintigraphic findings together with laboratory results led to a diagnosis of hypophosphataemic osteomalacia. The patient responded satisfactorily to treatment with phosphate both clinically and in the follow-up bone scintigraphy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEMNIM. All rights reserved.

  10. Randomized controlled trial of intravenous acetaminophen for postcesarean delivery pain control.

    PubMed

    Altenau, Brie; Crisp, Catrina C; Devaiah, C Ganga; Lambers, Donna S

    2017-09-01

    Cesarean delivery is a common surgery in the United States, with 1.3 million performed during 2009. 1 Obstetricians must balance the growing concern with opioid abuse, dependence, and side effects with optimal postoperative pain control. Intravenous acetaminophen may represent an additional method to decrease the reliance on opioid medications and improve postoperative pain following cesarean delivery. The objective of the study was to determine whether the administration of intravenous acetaminophen following routine scheduled cesarean delivery would decrease the need for narcotic medications to control postoperative pain. This was an institutional review board-approved, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, registered on clinicaltrials.gov (number 02046382). Women scheduled to undergo cesarean delivery with regional anesthesia at term were recruited. All perioperative and postpartum care was standardized via study order sets. Study patients were given all medications in a standardized manner receiving either acetaminophen 1000 mg intravenously or 100 mL saline (placebo) every 8 hours for 48 hours for a total of 6 doses. The pharmacy prepared intravenous acetaminophen and saline in identical administration bags labeled study drug to ensure blinding. The initial dose of study drug was given within 60 minutes of skin incision. Quantity of breakthrough and scheduled analgesic medications and self-reported pain levels on the Faces Pain Scale (0-10) before and after study drug administration were collected. Patient demographics were extracted from the chart. Power calculation determined that 45 patients per arm were required to detect a 30% reduction in postcesarean narcotic requirement with 80% power and a significance level of P = .05. A total of 133 patients were consented for the study. Twenty-nine were excluded and 104 patients completed the study: 57 received intravenous acetaminophen and 47 received placebo. There were no differences in baseline demographic characteristics including patient age, body mass index, gravidity, parity, race, comorbidities, or number of prior cesarean deliveries. There were no differences between groups in estimated blood loss or length of stay. The total amount of oral narcotic medications consumed by patients receiving intravenous acetaminophen was significantly reduced when compared with the placebo group (47 mg vs 65 mg of oxycodone; P = .034). The total amount of ibuprofen used between groups was not different. There was no difference in pain scores between groups before and after study dose administration. There was no significant difference in narcotic side effects (nausea/emesis, respiratory depression, constipation) in either study arm. Intravenous acetaminophen in the postoperative period following cesarean delivery resulted in a significant decrease in oral narcotic consumption for pain control. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. [Metabolic fate of carteolol hydrochloride (OPC-1085), a new beta-adrenergic agent. (3) Autoradiographic total body distribution studies in mice].

    PubMed

    Kohri, H; Morita, S; Nakagawa, K; Nishino, H

    1976-04-01

    Distribution of a new beta-adrenergic blocking agent, 3H-carteolol in mice was studied by whole body autoradiography. The distribution of radioactivity was observed in all organs except the eyes and brain, with particularly high specific activities in the kidneys, liver, gall bladder and content in the intestines within a short time after either oral or intravenous administration. The radioactivity was then promptly eliminated from all tissues and organs, and excreted almost entirely in the urine and bile. Propranolol is known to be distributed at a high concentration in the brain, whereas the concentration of (3H-) carteolol detectable in the brain was slight. In the adrenal gland, the radioactivity was localized in the medulla. Radioactivity was detected also in the stomach contents after the intravenous administration. The distribution of radioactivity in the fetus through the placenta was less than that in the major organs of the mother mouse, and the elimination of the activity was more rapid in the fetus than in mother. These findings indicate that carteolol and its metabolites do to some extent pass through the blood-brain barrier and placenta.

  12. Microanalysis and preliminary pharmacokinetic studies of a sulfated polysaccharide from Laminaria japonica

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wenjing; Sun, Delin; Zhao, Xia; Jin, Weihua; Wang, Jing; Zhang, Quanbin

    2016-01-01

    A rapid, sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column fluorescence derivatization has been developed to determine the amount of low-molecular-weight sulfated polysaccharide (GFS) in vivo. The metabolism of GFS has been shown to fit a two component model following its administration by intravenous injection, and its pharmacokinetic parameters were determined to be as follows: half-time of distribution phase ( t 1/2α)=11.24±2.93 min, half-time of elimination phase ( t 1/2β)=98.20±25.78 min, maximum concentration ( C max)=110.53 μg/mL and peak time ( T max)=5 min. The pharmacokinetic behavior of GFS was also investigated following intragastric administration. However, the concentration of GFS found in serum was too low for detection, and GFS could only be detected for up to 2 h after intragastric administration (200 mg/kg body weight). Thus, the bioavailability of GFS was low following intragastric administration because of the metabolism of GFS. In conclusion, HPLC with postcolumn derivatization could be used for quantitative microanalysis and pharmacokinetic studies to determine the presence of polysaccharides in the serum following intravenous injection.

  13. Detection of Theileria parva in tissues of cattle undergoing severe East Coast fever disease show significant parasite DNA accumulation in the spleen.

    PubMed

    Olds, Cassandra L; Paul, Tasha; Scoles, Glen A

    2016-12-15

    Infiltration and proliferation of Theileria parva infected lymphocytes in bovine host lymphoid organs is one of the hallmarks of T. parva infection. The relative abundance of parasites within infected host tissues, both lymphoid and non-lymphoid is however unknown. Using quantitative PCR, we have shown that significantly higher concentrations of T. parva DNA are detected in the spleens of cattle undergoing severe disease compared to other organs. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Transient spontaneous remission in congenital MLL-AF10 rearranged acute myeloid leukemia presenting with cardiorespiratory failure and meconium ileus.

    PubMed

    Gyárfás, Tobias; Wintgens, Juergen; Biskup, Wolfgang; Oschlies, Ilske; Klapper, Wolfram; Siebert, Reiner; Bens, Susanne; Haferlach, Claudia; Meisel, Roland; Kuhlen, Michaela; Borkhardt, Arndt

    2016-12-01

    Neonatal leukemia is a rare disease with an estimated prevalence of about one to five in a million neonates. The majority being acute myeloid leukemia (AML), neonatal leukemia can present with a variety of symptoms including hyperleucocytosis, cytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, and skin infiltrates. Chromosomal rearrangements including mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) translocations are common in neonatal AML. A female neonate born at 34 weeks gestation presented with cardiorespiratory failure, hepatosplenomegaly, pancytopenia, and coagulopathy. She required intensive care treatment including mechanical ventilation, high-dose catecholamine therapy, and multiple transfusions. Small intestinal biopsy obtained during laparotomy for meconium ileus revealed an infiltrate by an undifferentiated monoblastic, MLL-rearranged leukemia. No other manifestations of leukemia could be detected. After spontaneous clinical remission, lasting 5 months without any specific treatment, the patient presented with leukemia cutis and full-blown monoblastic leukemia. MLL-AF10-rearranged AML could be re-diagnosed and successfully treated with chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Our patient exhibited a unique manifestation of neonatal MLL-AF10 rearranged AML with cardiorespiratory failure and intestinal infiltration. It highlights the importance of leukemia in the differential diagnosis of neonatal distress, congenital hematological abnormalities, and skin lesions.

  15. Active myocarditis in a patient with chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection.

    PubMed

    Takano, Hiroyuki; Nakagawa, Keiichi; Ishio, Naoki; Daimon, Michiko; Daimon, Masao; Kobayashi, Yoshio; Hiroshima, Kenzo; Komuro, Issei

    2008-10-30

    Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus (CAEBV) infection is characterized by chronic or recurrent infectious mononucleosis-like symptoms and the prognosis of CAEBV infection is quite poor. The incidence of myocarditis as a complication of EBV infection is not so high and it is unusual that heart failure appears as the initial symptom. However, it is very important to detect and treat chronic active myocarditis in the early phase of CAEBV infection because chronic active myocarditis disorganizes and decreases cardiomyocytes, resulting in the progression to heart failure. We report a case of a 45-year-old man with CAEBV infection for 5 years. Echocardiography revealed moderate left ventricular systolic dysfunction with mild pericardial effusion. Endomyocardial biopsies demonstrated massive lymphocytic infiltration with adjacent myocytolysis and necrosis of cardiomyocytes suggesting active myocarditis. Immunohistological analysis of biopsies revealed that the infiltrating cells were mainly T lymphocytes. And some of the infiltrating cells showed a positive signal for the EBV-encoded small nuclear RNA by in situ hybridization. Positron emission tomography using (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose ((18)F-FDG) performed revealed increased uptake of (18)F-FDG of whole left ventricular wall with mild heterogeneity.

  16. An atypical pattern of Epstein-Barr virus infection in a case with idiopathic tubulointerstitial nephritis.

    PubMed

    Okada, Hirokazu; Ikeda, Naofumi; Kobayashi, Tatsuya; Inoue, Tsutomu; Kanno, Yoshihiko; Sugahara, Souichi; Nakamoto, Hidetomo; Yamamoto, Takako; Suzuki, Hiromichi

    2002-10-01

    Recently, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) received attention because a latent form of its infection in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells was found to cause idiopathic, chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis. In this report, we describe the case of a patient with a replicative form of EBV infection, chronic active EBV infection (CAEBV), who developed acute tubulointerstitial nephritis and minimal change nephrotic syndrome. A renal biopsy revealed papillary infoldings of atypical tubular epithelium and adjacent dense infiltration of lymphocytes. Using in situ polymerase chain reaction methods, we detected the EBV genome in some of the infiltrating lymphocytes, but not in the tubular epithelial cells. EBV-infected T cells are thought to activate other educated T cells, as well as secrete an unrestricted variety of cytokines, thus playing a pivotal role in CAEBV and its end organ disease. Therefore, in our case, the CAEBV activated, educated T cells may have followed the EBV-infected lymphocytes as they infiltrated into the peritubular interstitium, and promoted focal tubular epithelial atypia and minimal change nephrotic syndrome. The long-term observation of such patients is important because CAEBV may progress into lymphoproliferative diseases. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

  17. T lymphocyte recruitment into renal cell carcinoma tissue: a role for chemokine receptors CXCR3, CXCR6, CCR5, and CCR6.

    PubMed

    Oldham, Kimberley A; Parsonage, Greg; Bhatt, Rupesh I; Wallace, D Michael A; Deshmukh, Nayneeta; Chaudhri, Shalini; Adams, David H; Lee, Steven P

    2012-02-01

    Evidence suggests that some patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) respond to immunomodulatory therapies that activate T lymphocytes. A prerequisite for effective T cell therapy is efficient targeting of effector T cells to the tumour site, yet the molecular basis of T cell recruitment to RCC is unknown. Furthermore, some T cells that naturally infiltrate this cancer are regulatory T cells (Tregs) that may suppress antitumour immune responses. Determine the mechanisms of effector and regulatory T cell recruitment to RCC to allow targeted therapy that promotes local anti-tumour immunity. Tumour-infiltrating and peripheral blood T cells were collected from 70 patients undergoing nephrectomy for RCC. T cells were analysed by multicolour flow cytometry for expression of 19 chemokine receptors and 7 adhesion molecules. Receptors that were expressed at higher levels on tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) compared with matched peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) were analysed further for their ability to mediate migration responses in TILs and for expression of corresponding ligands in tumour tissue. Three chemokine receptors-CCR5, CXCR3, and CXCR6-were significantly overexpressed on TILs compared with matched PBLs (n=16 cases) and were capable of promoting migration in vitro. Their corresponding ligands CCL4-5, CXCL9-11, and CXCL16 were all detected in RCC tissue. However, since they were present in all cases studied, it was not possible to correlate ligand expression with levels of T cell infiltration. Foxp3(+) Tregs were enriched within TILs compared with matched PBLs and expressed high levels of CCR5, CXCR3, and CXCR6, as well as CCR6, the ligand for which (CCL20) was detectable in RCC tissue. Our data support a role for CCR5, CXCR3, and CXCR6 in the selective recruitment of T cells into RCC tissue and, together with CCR6, in the recruitment of Tregs. Copyright © 2011 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Non-invasive dual fluorescence in vivo imaging for detection of macrophage infiltration and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in inflammatory arthritic joints

    PubMed Central

    Cho, Hongsik; Bhatti, Fazal-Ur-Rehman; Yoon, Tae Won; Hasty, Karen A.; Stuart, John M.; Yi, Ae-Kyung

    2016-01-01

    Detection and intervention at an early stage is a critical factor to impede arthritis progress. Here we present a non-invasive method to detect inflammatory changes in joints of arthritic mice. Inflammation was monitored by dual fluorescence optical imaging for near-infrared fluorescent (750F) matrix-metalloproteinase activatable agent and allophycocyanin-conjugated anti-mouse CD11b. Increased intensity of allophycocyanin (indication of macrophage accumulation) and 750F (indication of matrix-metalloproteinase activity) showed a biological relationship with the arthritis severity score and the histopathology score of arthritic joints. Our results demonstrate that this method can be used to detect early stages of arthritis with minimum intervention in small animal models. PMID:27231625

  19. Assessment of drinking water quality at the tap using fluorescence spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Heibati, Masoumeh; Stedmon, Colin A; Stenroth, Karolina; Rauch, Sebastien; Toljander, Jonas; Säve-Söderbergh, Melle; Murphy, Kathleen R

    2017-11-15

    Treated drinking water may become contaminated while travelling in the distribution system on the way to consumers. Elevated dissolved organic matter (DOM) at the tap relative to the water leaving the treatment plant is a potential indicator of contamination, and can be measured sensitively, inexpensively and potentially on-line via fluorescence and absorbance spectroscopy. Detecting elevated DOM requires potential contamination events to be distinguished from natural fluctuations in the system, but how much natural variation to expect in a stable distribution system is unknown. In this study, relationships between DOM optical properties, microbial indicator organisms and trace elements were investigated for households connected to a biologically-stable drinking water distribution system. Across the network, humic-like fluorescence intensities showed limited variation (RSD = 3.5-4.4%), with half of measured variation explained by interactions with copper. After accounting for quenching by copper, fluorescence provided a very stable background signal (RSD < 2.2%) against which a ∼2% infiltration of soil water would be detectable. Smaller infiltrations would be detectable in the case of contamination by sewage with a strong tryptophan-like fluorescence signal. These findings indicate that DOM fluorescence is a sensitive indicator of water quality changes in drinking water networks, as long as potential interferents are taken into account. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  20. Identification of persisten anionic surfactant-derived chemicals in sewage effluent and groundwater

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Field, J.A.; Leenheer, J.A.; Thorn, K.A.; Barber, L.B.; Rostad, C.; Macalady, D.L.; Daniel, S.R.

    1992-01-01

    Preparative isolation and fractionation procedures coupled with spectrometric analyses were used to identify surfactant-derived contaminants in sewage effluent and sewage-contaminated groundwater from a site located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Anionic surfactants and their biodegradation intermediates were isolated from field samples by ion exchange and fractionated by solvent extraction and adsorption chromatography. Fractions were analyzed by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Carboxylated residues of alkylphenol polyethoxylate surfactants were detected in sewage effluent and contaminated groundwater. Linear alkylbenzenesulfonates (LAS) were identified in sewage effluent and groundwater. Groundwater LAS composition suggested preferential removal of select isomers and homologs due to processes of biodegradation and partitioning. Tetralin and indane sulfonates (DATS), alicyclic analogs of LAS, were also identified in field samples. Although DATS are a minor portion of LAS formulations, equivalent concentrations of LAS and DATS in groundwater suggested persistence of alicyclic contaminant structures over those of linear structure. Sulfophenyl-carboxylated (SPC) LAS biodegradation intermediates were determined in sewage effluent and groundwater. Homolog distributions suggested that SPC containing 3-10 alkyl-chain carbons persist during infiltration and groundwater transport. Surfactant-derived residues detected in well F300-50 groundwater have a minimum residence time in the range of 2.7-4.6 yr. LAS detected in groundwater at 500 m from infiltration has been stable over an estimated 50-500 half lives.

  1. Identification of persistent anionic surfactant-derived chemicals in sewage effluent and groundwater

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Field, Jennifer A.; Leenheer, Jerry A.; Thorn, Kevin A.; Barber, Larry B.; Rostad, Colleen; Macalady, Donald L.; Daniel, Stephen R.

    1992-01-01

    Preparative isolation and fractionation procedures coupled with spectrometric analyses were used to identify surfactant-derived contaminants in sewage effluent and sewage-contaminated groundwater from a site located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Anionic surfactants and their biodegradation intermediates were isolated from field samples by ion exchange and fractionated by solvent extraction and adsorption chromatography. Fractions were analyzed by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Carboxylated residues of alkylphenol polyethoxylate surfactants were detected in sewage effluent and contaminated groundwater. Linear alkylbenzenesulfonates (LAS) were identified in sewage effluent and groundwater. Groundwater LAS composition suggested preferential removal of select isomers and homologs due to processes of biodegradation and partitioning. Tetralin and indane sulfonates (DATS), alicyclic analogs of LAS, were also identified in field samples. Although DATS are a minor portion of LAS formulations, equivalent concentrations of LAS and DATS in groundwater suggested persistence of alicyclic contaminant structures over those of linear structure. Sulfophenyl-carboxylated (SPC) LAS biodegradation intermediates were determined in sewage effluent and groundwater. Homolog distributions suggested that SPC containing 3–10 alkyl-chain carbons persist during infiltration and groundwater transport. Surfactant-derived residues detected in well F300-50 groundwater have a minimum residence time in the range of 2.7–4.6 yr. LAS detected in groundwater at 500 m from infiltration has been stable over an estimated 50–500 half lives.

  2. Effectiveness and safety of continuous wound infiltration for postoperative pain management after open gastrectomy

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Xing; Feng, Xu; Cai, Xiu-Jun

    2016-01-01

    AIM: To prospectively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of continuous wound infiltration (CWI) for pain management after open gastrectomy. METHODS: Seventy-five adult patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status Classification System (ASA) grade 1-3 undergoing open gastrectomy were randomized to three groups. Group 1 patients received CWI with 0.3% ropivacaine (group CWI). Group 2 patients received 0.5 mg/mL morphine intravenously by a patient-controlled analgesia pump (PCIA) (group PCIA). Group 3 patients received epidural analgesia (EA) with 0.12% ropivacaine and 20 µg/mL morphine with an infusion at 6-8 mL/h for 48 h (group EA). A standard general anesthetic technique was used for all three groups. Rescue analgesia (2 mg bolus of morphine, intravenous) was given when the visual analogue scale (VAS) score was ≥ 4. The outcomes measured over 48 h after the operation were VAS scores both at rest and during mobilization, total morphine consumption, relative side effects, and basic vital signs. Further results including time to extubation, recovery of bowel function, surgical wound healing, mean length of hospitalization after surgery, and the patient’s satisfaction were also recorded. RESULTS: All three groups had similar VAS scores during the first 48 h after surgery. Group CWI and group EA, compared with group PCIA, had lower morphine consumption (P < 0.001), less postoperative nausea and vomiting (1.20 ± 0.41 vs 1.96 ± 0.67, 1.32 ± 0.56 vs 1.96 ± 0.67, respectively, P < 0.001), earlier extubation (16.56 ± 5.24 min vs 19.76 ± 5.75 min, P < 0.05, 15.48 ± 4.59 min vs 19.76 ± 5.75 min, P < 0.01), and earlier recovery of bowel function (2.96 ± 1.17 d vs 3.60 ± 1.04 d, 2.80 ± 1.38 d vs 3.60 ± 1.04 d, respectively, P < 0.05). The mean length of hospitalization after surgery was reduced in groups CWI (8.20 ± 2.58 d vs 10.08 ± 3.15 d, P < 0.05) and EA (7.96 ± 2.30 d vs 10.08 ± 3.15 d, P < 0.01) compared with group PCIA. All three groups had similar patient satisfaction and wound healing, but group PCIA was prone to higher sedation scores when compared with groups CWI and EA, especially during the first 12 h after surgery. Group EA had a lower mean arterial pressure within the first postoperative 12 h compared with the other two groups. CONCLUSION: CWI with ropivacaine yields a satisfactory analgesic effect within the first 48 h after open gastrectomy, with lower morphine consumption and accelerated recovery. PMID:26855550

  3. Biodistribution and Clearance of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Quantitative Three-Dimensional Cryo-Imaging After Intravenous Infusion in a Rat Lung Injury Model.

    PubMed

    Schmuck, Eric G; Koch, Jill M; Centanni, John M; Hacker, Timothy A; Braun, Rudolf K; Eldridge, Marlowe; Hei, Derek J; Hematti, Peiman; Raval, Amish N

    2016-12-01

    : Cell tracking is a critical component of the safety and efficacy evaluation of therapeutic cell products. To date, cell-tracking modalities have been hampered by poor resolution, low sensitivity, and inability to track cells beyond the shortterm. Three-dimensional (3D) cryo-imaging coregisters fluorescent and bright-field microcopy images and allows for single-cell quantification within a 3D organ volume. We hypothesized that 3D cryo-imaging could be used to measure cell biodistribution and clearance after intravenous infusion in a rat lung injury model compared with normal rats. A bleomycin lung injury model was established in Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 12). Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) labeled with QTracker655 were infused via jugular vein. After 2, 4, or 8 days, a second dose of hMSCs labeled with QTracker605 was infused, and animals were euthanized after 60, 120, or 240 minutes. Lungs, liver, spleen, heart, kidney, testis, and intestine were cryopreserved, followed by 3D cryo-imaging of each organ. At 60 minutes, 82% ± 9.7% of cells were detected; detection decreased to 60% ± 17% and 66% ± 22% at 120 and 240 minutes, respectively. At day 2, 0.06% of cells were detected, and this level remained constant at days 4 and 8 postinfusion. At 60, 120, and 240 minutes, 99.7% of detected cells were found in the liver, lungs, and spleen, with cells primarily retained in the liver. This is the first study using 3D cryo-imaging to track hMSCs in a rat lung injury model. hMSCs were retained primarily in the liver, with fewer detected in lungs and spleen. Effective bench-to-bedside clinical translation of cellular therapies requires careful understanding of cell fate through tracking. Tracking cells is important to measure cell retention so that delivery methods and cell dose can be optimized and so that biodistribution and clearance can be defined to better understand potential off-target toxicity and redosing strategies. This article demonstrates, for the first time, the use of three-dimensional cryo-imaging for single-cell quantitative tracking of intravenous infused clinical-grade mesenchymal stem cells in a clinically relevant model of lung injury. The important information learned in this study will help guide future clinical and translational stem cell therapies for lung injuries. ©AlphaMed Press.

  4. Investigation of artificial recharge of aquifers in Nebraska

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Lichtler, William F.; Stannard, David I.; Kouma, Edwin

    1980-01-01

    Progressive declines of ground-water levels in some areas of Nebraska prompted this investigation into the technical feasibility of recharging aquifers through wells, impoundments, pits, and canals. Information gained from a literature search and from preliminary tests was used to design several artificial-recharge experiments in Nebraska from 1977 to 1979. In well experiments, 0.46 billion gallons of water from an aquifer recharged by the Platte River was transported by pipeline and injected through a well into a sand and gravel aquifer near Aurora. Recharge was at about 730 gallons per minute during tests of 6- and 8-months duration. No evidence of clogging of the aquifer due to chemical reactions, air entrainment, or bacteria was detected in either test. In the 6-month test, evidence of clogging due to fine sediment in the recharge water was detected; however, analysis of this test indicated that recharge could have continued for several years before rehabilitation would have become necessary. Results of the 8-month test confirmed results of the earlier test until casing failure in the supply well and subsequent sediment deposition in the recharge well caused rapid water-level rise in the recharge well. In surface-spreading experiments, maximum infiltration rates from 24-foot-diameter ring infiltrometers near Aurora and Tryon were 0.4 and 11 feet per day, respectively. Results indicate that large-scale surface spreading is feasible only where low-permeability layers are absent in the subsurface. Infiltration rates from reuse pits ranged from 0.01 to 1.6 feet per day, indicating highly variable subsurface permeability. Flow measurements in an irrigation canal near Farwell indicate an infiltration rate of 0.37 feet per day. (USGS)

  5. Metal ions from S‐PRG filler have the potential to prevent periodontal disease

    PubMed Central

    Iwamatsu‐Kobayashi, Yoko; Abe, Syouta; Fujieda, Yoshiyasu; Orimoto, Ai; Kanehira, Masafumi; Handa, Keisuke; Venkataiah, Venkata Suresh; Zou, Wei; Ishikawa, Masaki

    2017-01-01

    Abstract The surface pre‐reacted glass ionomer (S‐PRG) filler, a component of composite resin, is capable of releasing metal ions that possess antibacterial activity against caries and periodontal pathogens. Although S‐PRG has been suggested to be involved in oral disease prevention, no reports have been published regarding its preventive effect on periodontal disease in vivo. The present study investigated whether the eluate from S‐PRG (S‐PRG eluate) has a suppressive effect on tissue destruction induced in a mouse model of ligature‐induced periodontal disease. Twenty‐seven C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups of nine animals each, no ligature group (Lig(−)), ligature group (Lig(+)S‐PRG(−)) and ligature with S‐PRG eluate group (Lig(+)S‐PRG(+)). Alveolar bone loss was evaluated using micro‐computed tomography scanning. Histologic changes were detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The infiltration of inflammatory cells was assessed by Ly6G and F4/80 staining immunohistochemically. The distribution of metal ions was detected by time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. S‐PRG eluate clearly inhibited alveolar bone loss and bone density. The histological analysis revealed that S‐PRG eluate reduced destruction of the collagen bundle in the periodontal ligament and the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the S‐PRG eluate significantly suppressed the number of infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages. Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis revealed that more boron ions were present in the Lig(+)S‐PRG(+) group than in the Lig(+)S‐PRG(−) group. Our results suggest that the S‐PRG eluate has a preventive effect against tissue destruction in periodontal disease through its anti‐inflammatory effects in vivo. PMID:29744190

  6. Clinical relevance of miR-mediated HLA-G regulation and the associated immune cell infiltration in renal cell carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Jasinski-Bergner, Simon; Stoehr, Christine; Bukur, Juergen; Massa, Chiara; Braun, Juliane; Hüttelmaier, Stefan; Spath, Verena; Wartenberg, Roland; Legal, Wolfgang; Taubert, Helge; Wach, Sven; Wullich, Bernd; Hartmann, Arndt; Seliger, Barbara

    2015-06-01

    In human tumors of distinct origin including renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the non-classical human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is frequently expressed, thereby inhibiting the cytotoxic activity of T and natural killer (NK) cells. Recent studies demonstrated a strong post-transcriptional gene regulation of the HLA-G by miR-152, -148A, -148B and -133A. Standard methods were applied to characterize the expression and function of HLA-G, HLA-G-regulatory microRNAs (miRs) and the immune cell infiltration in 453 RCC lesions using a tissue microarray and five RCC cell lines linking these results to clinical parameters. Direct interactions with HLA-G regulatory miRs and the HLA-G 3' untranslated region (UTR) were detected and the affinities of these different miRs to the HLA-G 3'-UTR compared. qPCR analyses and immunohistochemical staining revealed an inverse expression of miR-148A and -133A with the HLA-G protein in situ and in vitro . Stable miR overexpression caused a downregulation of HLA-G protein enhancing the NK and LAK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in in vitro CD107a activation assays revealing a HLA-G-dependent cytotoxic activity of immune effector cells. A significant higher frequency of CD3 + /CD8 + T cell lymphocytes, but no differences in the activation markers CD69, CD25 or in the presence of CD56 + , FoxP3 + and CD4 + immune cells were detected in HLA-G + compared to HLA-G - RCC lesions. This could be associated with higher WHO grade, but not with a disease-specific survival. These data suggest a miR-mediated control of HLA-G expression in RCC, which is associated with a distinct pattern of immune cell infiltration.

  7. Intramuscular Therapeutic Vaccination Targeting HPV16 Induces T Cell Responses That Localize in Mucosal Lesions

    PubMed Central

    Jotova, Iveta; Wu, T. C.; Wang, Chenguang; Desmarais, Cindy; Boyer, Jean D.; Tycko, Benjamin; Robins, Harlan S.; Clark, Rachael A.; Trimble, Cornelia L.

    2014-01-01

    About 25% of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN2/3) caused by human papillomavirus serotype 16 (HPV16) undergo complete spontaneous regression. However, to date, therapeutic vaccination strategies for HPV disease have yielded limited success when measured by their ability to induce robust peripheral blood T cell responses to vaccine antigen. We report marked immunologic changes in the target lesion microenvironment after intramuscular therapeutic vaccination targeting HPV16 E6/E7 antigens, in subjects with CIN2/3 who had modest detectable responses in circulating T lymphocytes. Histologic and molecular changes, including markedly (average threefold) increased intensity of CD8+ T cell infiltrates in both the stromal and epithelial compartments, suggest an effector response to vaccination. Postvaccination cervical tissue immune infiltrates included organized tertiary lymphoid-like structures in the stroma subjacent to residual intraepithelial lesions and, unlike infiltrates in unvaccinated lesions, showed evidence of proliferation induced by recognition of cognate antigen. At a molecular level, these histologic changes in the stroma were characterized by increased expression of genes associated with immune activation (CXCR3) and effector function (Tbet and IFNβ), and were also associated with an immunologic signature in the overlying dysplastic epithelium. High-throughput T cell receptor sequencing of unmanipulated specimens identified clonal expansions in the tissue that were not readily detectable in peripheral blood. Together, these findings indicate that peripheral therapeutic vaccination to HPV antigens can induce a robust tissue-localized effector immune response, and that analyses of immune responses at sites of antigen are likely to be much more informative than analyses of cells that remain in the circulation. PMID:24477000

  8. 77 FR 50166 - Petitions for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-20

    ... less than one shot per 10 feet to permit expanding cement to infiltrate the annulus between the casing... mineable coal seam will be perforated with one shot at the elevation of each coal seam above the lowest... detected. The record will be retained at the mine for one year. The petitioner asserts that the proposed...

  9. A simple analytical infiltration model for short-duration rainfall

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Kaiwen; Yang, Xiaohua; Liu, Xiaomang; Liu, Changming

    2017-12-01

    Many infiltration models have been proposed to simulate infiltration process. Different initial soil conditions and non-uniform initial water content can lead to infiltration simulation errors, especially for short-duration rainfall (SHR). Few infiltration models are specifically derived to eliminate the errors caused by the complex initial soil conditions. We present a simple analytical infiltration model for SHR infiltration simulation, i.e., Short-duration Infiltration Process model (SHIP model). The infiltration simulated by 5 models (i.e., SHIP (high) model, SHIP (middle) model, SHIP (low) model, Philip model and Parlange model) were compared based on numerical experiments and soil column experiments. In numerical experiments, SHIP (middle) and Parlange models had robust solutions for SHR infiltration simulation of 12 typical soils under different initial soil conditions. The absolute values of percent bias were less than 12% and the values of Nash and Sutcliffe efficiency were greater than 0.83. Additionally, in soil column experiments, infiltration rate fluctuated in a range because of non-uniform initial water content. SHIP (high) and SHIP (low) models can simulate an infiltration range, which successfully covered the fluctuation range of the observed infiltration rate. According to the robustness of solutions and the coverage of fluctuation range of infiltration rate, SHIP model can be integrated into hydrologic models to simulate SHR infiltration process and benefit the flood forecast.

  10. Anal carcinoma and HIV infection: is it time for screening?

    PubMed

    Herranz-Pinto, P; Sendagorta-Cudós, E; Bernardino-de la Serna, J I; Peña-Sánchez de Rivera, J M

    2014-03-01

    A 38-year-old white man had a 10-year history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (A3), with no episodes of opportunistic diseases and in good immunologic recovery (CD4 cell count: 450 and indetectable HIV viral load) while on HAART. He presented with a two-month history of mild anal symptoms, including pruritus and episodic bleeding. He referred past episodes of anal warts, self-treated with several topical compounds, all proven unsuccessful. Perianal examination showed erythema and scratching. A 0.5cm sized tumor, with infiltration at the base was detected on digital exam, located at 15mm from the anal margin. Local biopsy driven by high-resolution anuscopy (AAR) yielded a final diagnosis of infiltrative epidermoid carcinoma. Might that neoplasia have been prevented? Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

  11. [Giant inflammatory pseudotumor of the cranial base].

    PubMed

    Carrasco-Moro, Rodrigo; Martínez-San Millán, Juan; Pian, Héctor

    The inflammatory pseudotumour (IPT) is a non-neoplastic entity of unknown origin, and is characterised by a proliferation of connective tissue and a polyclonal inflammatory infiltrate. Central nervous system involvement is uncommon, and usually represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge even for the experienced clinician. This reports deals with the case of a 56year-old woman diagnosed with a giant, infiltrating mass centred in the left cavernous sinus, who had a rapid clinical and radiological response to steroid therapy. Biopsy specimens were diagnostic for IPT. The progression of a small orbital residual lesion was detected after steroid withdrawal. Treatment with cyclophosphamide induced a complete response that remains stable after six years of follow-up. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Neurocirugía. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  12. [Expression of cell adhesion molecules in acute leukemia cell].

    PubMed

    Ju, Xiaoping; Peng, Min; Xu, Xiaoping; Lu, Shuqing; Li, Yao; Ying, Kang; Xie, Yi; Mao, Yumin; Xia, Fang

    2002-11-01

    To investigate the role of cell adhesion molecule in the development and extramedullary infiltration (EI) of acute leukemia. The expressions of neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) gene, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) genes in 25 acute leukemia patients bone marrow cells were detected by microarray and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The expressions of NCAM, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 gene were significantly higher in acute leukemia cells and leukemia cells with EI than in normal tissues and leukemia cells without EI, respectively, both by cDNA microarray and by RT-PCR. The cDNA microarray is a powerful technique in analysis of acute leukemia cells associated genes. High expressions of cell adhesion molecule genes might be correlated with leukemia pathogenesis and infiltration of acute leukemia cell.

  13. Structural, morphological and interfacial characterization of Al-Mg/TiC composites

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

    Contreras, A.; Angeles-Chavez, C.; Flores, O.

    2007-08-15

    Morphological and structural characterization of Al-Mg/TiC composites obtained by infiltration process and wetting by the sessile drop technique were studied. Focusing at the interface, wetting of TiC substrates by molten Al-Mg-alloys at 900 deg. C was investigated. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) indicated that aluminum carbide (Al{sub 4}C{sub 3}) is formed at the interface and traces of TiAl{sub 3} in the wetting assemblies were detected. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations show that TiC particles do not appear to be uniformly attacked to produce a continuous layer of Al{sub 4}C{sub 3} at the interface. Molten Al-Mg-alloys were infiltrated into TiC preforms withmore » flowing argon at a temperature of 900 deg. C. In the composites no reaction phase was observed by SEM. Quantification of the Al phase in the composite was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Rietveld analysis. Chemical mapping analyzed by SEM shows that the Al-Mg alloy surrounds TiC particles. In the composites with 20 wt.% of Mg the Al-Mg-{beta} phase was detected through XRD.« less

  14. Covalent modification of pericardial patches for sustained rapamycin delivery inhibits venous neointimal hyperplasia

    PubMed Central

    Bai, Hualong; Lee, Jung Seok; Chen, Elizabeth; Wang, Mo; Xing, Ying; Fahmy, Tarek M.; Dardik, Alan

    2017-01-01

    Prosthetic grafts and patches are commonly used in cardiovascular surgery, however neointimal hyperplasia remains a significant concern, especially under low flow conditions. We hypothesized that delivery of rapamycin from nanoparticles (NP) covalently attached to patches allows sustained site-specific delivery of therapeutic agents targeted to inhibit localized neointimal hyperplasia. NP were covalently linked to pericardial patches using EDC/NHS chemistry and could deliver at least 360 ng rapamycin per patch without detectable rapamycin in serum; nanoparticles were detectable in the liver, kidney and spleen but no other sites within 24 hours. In a rat venous patch angioplasty model, control patches developed robust neointimal hyperplasia on the patch luminal surface characterized by Eph-B4-positive endothelium and underlying SMC and infiltrating cells such as macrophages and leukocytes. Patches delivering rapamycin developed less neointimal hyperplasia, less smooth muscle cell proliferation, and had fewer infiltrating cells but retained endothelialization. NP covalently linked to pericardial patches are a novel composite delivery system that allows sustained site-specific delivery of therapeutics; NP delivering rapamycin inhibit patch neointimal hyperplasia. NP linked to patches may represent a next generation of tissue engineered cardiovascular implants. PMID:28071663

  15. Covalent modification of pericardial patches for sustained rapamycin delivery inhibits venous neointimal hyperplasia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bai, Hualong; Lee, Jung Seok; Chen, Elizabeth; Wang, Mo; Xing, Ying; Fahmy, Tarek M.; Dardik, Alan

    2017-01-01

    Prosthetic grafts and patches are commonly used in cardiovascular surgery, however neointimal hyperplasia remains a significant concern, especially under low flow conditions. We hypothesized that delivery of rapamycin from nanoparticles (NP) covalently attached to patches allows sustained site-specific delivery of therapeutic agents targeted to inhibit localized neointimal hyperplasia. NP were covalently linked to pericardial patches using EDC/NHS chemistry and could deliver at least 360 ng rapamycin per patch without detectable rapamycin in serum; nanoparticles were detectable in the liver, kidney and spleen but no other sites within 24 hours. In a rat venous patch angioplasty model, control patches developed robust neointimal hyperplasia on the patch luminal surface characterized by Eph-B4-positive endothelium and underlying SMC and infiltrating cells such as macrophages and leukocytes. Patches delivering rapamycin developed less neointimal hyperplasia, less smooth muscle cell proliferation, and had fewer infiltrating cells but retained endothelialization. NP covalently linked to pericardial patches are a novel composite delivery system that allows sustained site-specific delivery of therapeutics; NP delivering rapamycin inhibit patch neointimal hyperplasia. NP linked to patches may represent a next generation of tissue engineered cardiovascular implants.

  16. Cannabinoid Poisoning by Hemp Seed Oil in a Child.

    PubMed

    Chinello, Matteo; Scommegna, Salvatore; Shardlow, Alison; Mazzoli, Francesca; De Giovanni, Nadia; Fucci, Nadia; Borgiani, Paola; Ciccacci, Cinzia; Locasciulli, Anna; Calvani, Mauro

    2017-05-01

    We report a case of mild cannabinoid poisoning in a preschool child, after 3-week ingestion of hemp seed oil prescribed by his pediatrician to strengthen his immune system. The patient presented neurological symptoms that disappeared after intravenous hydration. A possible mild withdrawal syndrome was reported after discharge. The main metabolite of Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol was detected in urine, and very low concentration of Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol was detected in the ingested product. This is, as far as we know, the first report of cannabinoid poisoning after medical prescription of hemp seed oil in a preschool child.

  17. Targeting Premalignant Lesions - Implications for Early Breast Cancer Detection and Intervention

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-04-01

    lesions. Peptide conjugated AgNP were injected intravenously in mice and mammary glands were isolated and analyzed for nanoparticle accumulation by silver ...Furthermore, these probes will be used to develop targeted therapeutic nanoparticles for early intervention in breast cancer. 2. KEYWORDS...cancer (Months 18-24) (To be done) Specific Aim 3: Target premalignant lesions utilizing peptide-conjugated nanoparticles to prevent/delay

  18. Lack of infectivity of HBV in feces from patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and infection using chimeric mice.

    PubMed

    Komatsu, Haruki; Inui, Ayano; Murano, Takeyoshi; Tsunoda, Tomoyuki; Sogo, Tsuyoshi; Fujisawa, Tomoo

    2015-08-20

    Body fluids such as saliva and tears from patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are known as infectious agents. The infectivity of feces from patients with HBV infection has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine whether feces from HBV carriers can be a source of HBV infection. Thirty-three children and 17 adults (ages 0-49 years, median age 13 years) who were chronically infected with HBV were enrolled. The levels of HBV DNA in the feces from these patients were quantified by real-time PCR, and the levels of fecal HBsAg were measured. Isolated human hepatocytes from chimeric mice with humanized livers were co-cultured with serum, tears and feces from the HBV carriers. Four chimeric mice were inoculated intravenously with sterilized feces from HBV carriers. HBV DNA was detected in the feces of 37 (74%) of the 50 patients. The fecal HBV DNA levels ranged from 2.8 to 8.4 log copies/mL (mean ± SD  =  5.6 ± 1.2 log copies/mL). A significant correlation was observed in the levels of HBV DNA between serum and feces (r  =  0.54, p < 0.05). Of the 13 HBV carries, 7 (54%) were positive for fecal HBsAg. The fecal HBsAg levels ranged from 0.06 to 1.0 IU/mL (median 0.28 IU/mL). Immunogold electron microscopy showed Dane particles in feces. HBV DNA was detected in the human hepatocytes co-cultured with serum and tears, but not in those co-cultured with feces. HBV DNA was not detected in the serum of the chimeric mice after oral or intravenous inoculation with sterilized fecal samples, which contained 5 log copies/mL of HBV DNA levels. Although the positive rate of fecal HBV DNA was high, the fecal HBsAg levels were extremely low. The chimeric mice were not infected with HBV after oral or intravenous inoculation with sterilized fecal samples. Therefore, feces from HBV carriers seem not to serve as an infectious vehicle for the transmission of HBV.

  19. Radiological detection of extracapsular spread in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cervical metastases.

    PubMed

    Url, C; Schartinger, V H; Riechelmann, H; Glückert, R; Maier, H; Trumpp, M; Widmann, G

    2013-10-01

    Extracapsular spread of cervical lymph nodes deteriorates the prognosis of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Postoperative radiochemotherapy is superior to postoperative radiotherapy alone in patients with histologically proven extracapsular spread. If extracapsular spread can be detected preoperatively, patients may favor primary radiochemotherapy instead of primary surgery plus postoperative radiochemotherapy. Computed tomography (CT) scans of nodal positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients treated between 2008 and 2010 with comprehensive neck dissection as part of first line surgical treatment were retrospectively scanned for extracapsular spread by two blinded radiologists. If a positive lymph node was identified by the pathologist, CT scans were assessed for extracapsular spread retrospectively. CT criteria for Extracapsular spread were apparent fat and soft tissue infiltration or infiltration of sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein or carotid artery. Radiologic judgment was compared with histological evidence of extracapsular spread and specificity and sensitivity of CT detection was calculated. Forty-nine patients with histologically proven positive lymph nodes (pN+) were included. Extracapsular spread was histologically proven in 17 cases; the number of all affected lymph nodes was not listed. Radiologist 1 found extracapsular spread in CT scans of 15/49 patients and radiologist 2 in 16/49 patients (Cohen's kappa=0.86; p<0.01). Sensitivity of radiologic extracapsular spread detection was 73% (95% confidential index (CI): 44.0-89.7%) and specificity 91% (75.0-98.0%). Extracapsular spread depicted on computed tomography using strict criteria has high specificity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Molecular imaging of inflammation in the ApoE -/- mouse model of atherosclerosis with IodoDPA

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

    Foss, Catherine A., E-mail: cfoss1@jhmi.edu; Bedja, Djahida; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney

    Background: Atherosclerosis is a common and serious vascular disease predisposing individuals to myocardial infarction and stroke. Intravascular plaques, the pathologic lesions of atherosclerosis, are largely composed of cholesterol-laden luminal macrophage-rich infiltrates within a fibrous cap. The ability to detect those macrophages non-invasively within the aorta, carotid artery and other vessels would allow physicians to determine plaque burden, aiding management of patients with atherosclerosis. Methods and results: We previously developed a low-molecular-weight imaging agent, [{sup 125}I]iodo-DPA-713 (iodoDPA), which selectively targets macrophages. Here we use it to detect both intravascular macrophages and macrophage infiltrates within the myocardium in the ApoE -/- mousemore » model of atherosclerosis using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). SPECT data were confirmed by echocardiography, near-infrared fluorescence imaging and histology. SPECT images showed focal uptake of radiotracer at the aortic root in all ApoE -/- mice, while the age-matched controls were nearly devoid of radiotracer uptake. Focal radiotracer uptake along the descending aorta and within the myocardium was also observed in affected animals. Conclusions: IodoDPA is a promising new imaging agent for atherosclerosis, with specificity for the macrophage component of the lesions involved. - Highlights: • [{sup 125}I]iodoDPA SPECT detects atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE -/- mice with high contrast. • Plaques are detected in ApoE -/- mice regardless of diet with iodoDPA. • iodoDPA has very low uptake in healthy tissue including healthy TSPO + tissues at 24 h.« less

  1. Interaction between hyaluronan and CD44 in the development of dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver cirrhosis.

    PubMed

    Satoh, T; Ichida, T; Matsuda, Y; Sugiyama, M; Yonekura, K; Ishikawa, T; Asakura, H

    2000-04-01

    A significant increase in serum hyaluronan (HA) levels has been reported in patients with liver cirrhosis. This mechanism is not yet clear, and receptors for HA have not been characterized. In this study, we examined the expression of both HA and its receptors, CD44 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), in dimethylnitrosamine-induced liver cirrhosis. Using biotinylated HA binding protein, HA was detected in the area of periportal fibrosis and around the sinusoidal wall where hepatic fibrosis was developing. Electron microscopy revealed that HA was localized on Ito cells and sinusoidal endothelial cells (SEC). Conversely, CD44, which was only expressed weakly in normal liver, was present in large amounts in cirrhotic liver. The distribution pattern of CD44 was similar to that of HA, however, CD44 was mainly localized on the infiltrating lymphocytes and Kupffer cells. Moreover, CD44 was detected on part of factor VIII-positive SEC. Intercellular adhesion molecule-1, another receptor for HA, was detected on the surface of hepatocytes and around the sinusoidal wall in cirrhotic liver, but its distribution was not accompanied by expression of HA. With respect to CD44 isoforms, the standard form m-RNA predominated in both normal and cirrhotic liver. Variant pMeta-1 mRNA was detected at low levels. An interaction between HA and CD44 may play a role in the recruitment of numerous infiltrating cells and HA accumulation in hepatic sinusoids. Together with phenotypic changes in the SEC, these results may lead to a disturbance in the elimination of HA during the progression of liver cirrhosis.

  2. Hypophosphatemia and hemolytic anemia associated with diabetes mellitus and hepatic lipidosis in cats.

    PubMed

    Adams, L G; Hardy, R M; Weiss, D J; Bartges, J W

    1993-01-01

    Hypophosphatemia associated with hemolytic anemia was diagnosed in five cats with diabetes mellitus and in one cat with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis. The hematocrit began decreasing within 24 to 48 hours after documented hypophosphatemia in each case. The anemia resolved in all five surviving cats. Because of the temporal relationship and lack of other detectable causes, hemolytic anemia was presumed to be caused by hypophosphatemia. There were increased Heinz bodies in three of six hypophosphatemic cats during episodes of hemolysis. Intravenous potassium phosphate administration corrected the hypophosphatemia in four of five cats. The effective dosages of intravenous phosphate ranged from 0.011 to 0.017 mmol of phosphate/kg/h for 6 to 12 hours. Hypocalcemia (5.4 to 8.7 mg/dL) occurred in four of five cats treated with intravenous phosphate; however, only one cat developed clinical signs attributable to hypocalcemia. Based on this retrospective study, we recommend monitoring serum phosphorus concentration every 6 to 12 hours in cats likely to become hypophosphatemic. Treatment of hypophosphatemia in cats is warranted because of the apparent increased susceptibility of cats to hypophosphatemia-induced hemolysis. Cats with severe hypophosphatemia (< or = 1.5 mg/dL) should be given oral or parenteral phosphate if contraindications do not exist.

  3. IV and IP administration of rhodamine in visualization of WBC-BBB interactions in cerebral vessels.

    PubMed

    Reichenbach, Zachary Wilmer; Li, Hongbo; Gaughan, John P; Elliott, Melanie; Tuma, Ronald

    2015-10-01

    Epi-illuminescence intravital fluorescence microscopy has been employed to study leukocyte-endothelial interactions in a number of brain pathologies. Historically, dyes such as Rhodamine 6G have been injected intravenously. However, intravenous injections can predispose experimental animals to a multitude of complications and requires a high degree of technical skill. Here, we study the efficacy of injecting Rhodamine 6G into the peritoneum (IP) for the purpose of analyzing leukocyte-endothelial interactions through a cranial window during real time intravital microscopy. After examining the number of rolling and adherent leukocytes through a cranial window, we found no advantage to the intravenous injection (IV). Additionally, we tested blood from both routes of injection by flow cytometry to gain a very precise picture of the two methods. The two routes of administration failed to show any difference in the ability to detect cells. The study supports the notion that IP Rhodamine 6G works as efficaciously as IV and should be considered a viable alternative in experimental design for investigations employing intravital microscopy. Facilitated intravital studies will allow for more exploration into cerebral pathologies and allow for more rapid translation from the laboratory to the patient with less chance of experimental error from failed IV access. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. IV and IP Administration of Rhodamine in Visualization of WBC-BBB Interactions in Cerebral Vessels

    PubMed Central

    Li, Hongbo; Gaughan, John P.; Elliott, Melanie; Tuma, Ronald

    2015-01-01

    Epi-illuminescence intravital fluorescence microscopy has been employed to study leukocyte-endothelial interactions in a number of brain pathologies. Historically, dyes such as Rhodamine 6G have been injected intravenously. However, intravenous injections can predispose experimental animals to a multitude of complications and requires a high degree of technical skill. Here we study the efficacy of injecting Rhodamine 6G into the peritoneum (IP) for the purpose of analyzing leukocyte-endothelial interactions through a cranial window during real time intravital microscopy. After examining the number of rolling and adherent leukocytes through a cranial window we found no advantage to the intravenous injection (IV). Additionally, we tested blood from both routes of injection by flow cytometry to gain a very precise picture of the two methods. The two routes of administration failed to show any difference in the ability to detect cells. The study supports the notion that IP Rhodamine 6G works as efficaciously as IV and should be considered a viable alternative in experimental design for investigations employing intravital microscopy. Facilitated intravital studies will allow for more exploration into cerebral pathologies and allow for more rapid translation from the laboratory to the patient with less chance of experimental error from failed IV access. PMID:26207355

  5. Anti-high mobility group box-1 antibody therapy for traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Okuma, Yu; Liu, Keyue; Wake, Hidenori; Zhang, Jiyong; Maruo, Tomoko; Date, Isao; Yoshino, Tadashi; Ohtsuka, Aiji; Otani, Naoki; Tomura, Satoshi; Shima, Katsuji; Yamamoto, Yasuhiko; Yamamoto, Hiroshi; Takahashi, Hideo K; Mori, Shuji; Nishibori, Masahiro

    2012-09-01

    High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) plays an important role in triggering inflammatory responses in many types of diseases. In this study, we examined the involvement of HMGB1 in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and evaluated the ability of intravenously administered neutralizing anti-HMGB1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) to attenuate brain injury. Traumatic brain injury was induced in rats or mice by fluid percussion. Anti-HMGB1 mAb or control mAb was administered intravenously after TBI. Anti-HMGB1 mAb remarkably inhibited fluid percussion-induced brain edema in rats, as detected by T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging; this was associated with inhibition of HMGB1 translocation, protection of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, suppression of inflammatory molecule expression, and improvement of motor function. In contrast, intravenous injection of recombinant HMGB1 dose-dependently produced the opposite effects. Experiments using receptor for advanced glycation end product (RAGE)(-/-) , toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4)(-/-) , and TLR2(-/-) mice suggested the involvement of RAGE as the predominant receptor for HMGB1. Anti-HMGB1 mAb may provide a novel and effective therapy for TBI by protecting against BBB disruption and reducing the inflammatory responses induced by HMGB1. Copyright © 2012 American Neurological Association.

  6. Development and validation of a sensitive HPLC method for the quantification of HI-6 in guinea pig plasma and evaluated in domestic swine.

    PubMed

    Bohnert, Sara; Vair, Cory; Mikler, John

    2010-05-15

    A rapid and small volume assay to quantify HI-6 in plasma was developed to further the development and licensing of an intravenous formulation of HI-6. The objective of this method was to develop a sensitive and rapid assay that clearly resolved HI-6 and an internal standard in saline and plasma matrices. A fully validated method using ion-pair HPLC and 2-PAM as the internal standard fulfilled these requirements. Small plasma samples of 35 microL were extracted using acidification, filtration and neutralization. Linearity was shown for over 4 microg/mL to 1mg/mL with accuracy and precision within 6% relative error at the lower limit of detection. This method was utilized in the pharmacokinetic analysis HI-6 dichloride (2Cl) and HI-6 dimethane sulfonate (DMS) in anaesthetized guinea pigs and domestic swine following an intravenous bolus administration. From the resultant pharmacokinetic parameters a target plasma concentration of 100 microM was established and maintained in guinea pigs receiving an intravenous infusion. This validated method allows for the analysis of low volume samples, increased sample numbers and is applicable to the determination of pharmacokinetic profiles and parameters. Copyright (c) 2010. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  7. Influence of Cougar Reservoir Drawdown on Sediment and DDT Transport and Deposition in the McKenzie River Basin, Oregon, Water Years 2002-04

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Anderson, Chauncey W.

    2007-01-01

    Construction of a selective withdrawal tower at Cougar Reservoir in the South Fork McKenzie River, Oregon, during 2002-05 resulted in a prolonged release of sediment and high-turbidity water to downstream reaches throughout the summer of 2002, with additional episodic releases during storms in the following winters. Suspended-sediment concentrations and loads at five continuously monitored turbidity and discharge gaging stations were estimated using regression methods. Deposition in salmonid spawning beds was measured using infiltration bags. Stations were located upstream and downstream of Cougar Reservoir in the South Fork McKenzie River, in the mainstem of the McKenzie River upstream of the South Fork and downstream of Blue River, and in Blue River downstream of Blue River Reservoir. During 2002, Cougar Reservoir released approximately 17,000 tons of suspended sediment into the South Fork McKenzie River, or more than twice the incoming load from the South Fork upstream of the reservoir. In 2003 and 2004, the release of sediment from Cougar Reservoir decreased to 10,900 and 4,100 tons, respectively. Although Cougar Reservoir likely was a substantial source of sediment to the lower reaches during water years 2002 and 2003, the lack of continuous turbidity monitoring at stations other than the South Fork McKenzie River prior to January 2003 prevents quantification of the actual contribution to the mainstem. During water year 2004, the only year with complete records at all sites, Cougar Reservoir released about 24 percent (4,100 tons) of the sediment load estimated on the mainstem near Vida (16,900 tons); however, the relative contribution of Cougar Reservoir is expected to have been substantially larger during 2002 and 2003 when the newly exposed river channel in the upper reaches of the reservoir was actively eroding and migrating. Deposition of fine (less than 0.063-millimeter diameter) sediment into spawning beds, measured with the use of deployed infiltration bags, was greatest downstream of Cougar and Blue River Reservoirs (1.0 and 1.2 percent of total sediments, respectively). Deposition was least in the high-energy, unregulated environments (about 0.25 percent) of the South Fork McKenzie River above Cougar Reservoir and in the mainstem above the South Fork, and intermediate near Vida, the most downstream site on the mainstem. DDT, applied throughout much of the upper McKenzie River drainage basin to control spruce budworm during the 1950s, was detected in the South Fork near Rainbow in the form of its metabolites DDD and DDE in fine sediment captured in the infiltration bags. DDE also was detected in infiltration bags deployed in the McKenzie River near Vida, downstream of the South Fork. All concentrations of DDD and DDE were less than the aquatic-life criterion for bed sediment. DDT species were not detected in water samples, including samples collected during large storms. The reservoir apparently acted as a trap for sediment and DDT throughout the course of its existence, facilitating degradation of the trapped DDT, and may have been a source for both during the construction period in 2002-05, but the lack of detections during storms indicates that DDT transport was small. Transport of detectable amounts of DDT likely was limited to periods of high suspended-sediment concentrations (greater than 75-100 milligrams per liter). Infiltration bags were deployed during August 2003-July 2004 and were a useful device for measuring fine-sediment deposition and for chemical analysis of the deposited material. Deposition of fine-grained sediment downstream of the flood-control dams may be reduced if bed-moving events can be periodically reintroduced to those reaches.

  8. Localized internal radiotherapy with 90Y particles embedded in a new thermosetting alginate gel: a feasibility study in pigs.

    PubMed

    Holte, Oyvind; Skretting, Arne; Bach-Gansmo, Tore; Hol, Per Kristian; Johnsrud, Kjersti; Tønnesen, Hanne Hjorth; Karlsen, Jan

    2006-02-01

    Internal radiotherapy requires the localization of the radionuclide to the site of action. A new injectable alginate gel formulation intended to undergo immediate gelation in tissues and capable of encapsulating radioactive particles containing 90Y was investigated. The formulation was injected intramuscularly, into the bone marrow compartment of the femur and intravenously, respectively, in pigs. The distribution of radioactivity in various tissues was determined. Following intramuscular injection, more than 90% of the radioactivity was found at the site of injection. Following injection into bone marrow, 30-40% of the radioactivity was retained at the site of injection, but a considerable amount of radioactivity was also detected in the lungs (35-45%) and the liver (5-18%). Following intravenous injection, 80-90% of the radioactivity was found in the lungs. The present formulation appears suitable for localized radiotherapy in organs and tissues having low perfusion.

  9. Design of the Intravenous Magnesium Efficacy in Acute Stroke (IMAGES) trial.

    PubMed

    Bradford, Andrew; Lees, Kennedy

    2000-01-01

    The Intravenous Magnesium Efficacy in Acute Stroke (IMAGES) trial is a multicentre,randomised, placebo-controlled trial of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) funded by the UK Medical Research Council. When complete, it will be the largest single neuroprotective study undertaken to date. Conscious patients presenting within 12 h of acute stroke with limb weakness are eligible. The primary outcome measure is combined death and disability as measured using the Barthel Index at 90-day follow up. By randomizing 2700 patients, the study will have 84% power to detect a 5.5% absolute reduction in the primary end-point. By April 2000, 86 centres were participating, with representation in Canada, USA, Europe, South America, Singapore and Australia. So far, 1206 patients have been randomised, of whom 37% were treated within 6 h. Overall 3-month mortality was 20% and the primary outcome event rate was 43%. The study is ongoing and centres worldwide are encouraged to participate.

  10. Postural headache in marfan syndrome associated with spinal cysts and liquor hypotension.

    PubMed

    Voermans, N C; Dijk, K G J van; Bos, M M; Geus-Oei, L-F de; Verrips, A; Lindert, E J van

    2009-08-01

    We here report a 13-year-old Marfan patient who suffered from severe, medication-resistant, intermittent headache, which was provoked when getting into an upright position and immediately relieved by lying down or after intravenous rehydration. The postural benefit and the sudden relief after intravenous hydration suggested (intermittent) intracranial hypotension, although a normal opening pressure on lumbar punction was observed and no cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage was identified. Imaging studies revealed severe dural ectasia at lumbosacral level, and two intradural cysts and two extradural presacral cysts were detected. Most likely, altered hydrodynamics in intra- and extracranial spinal meningeal cysts caused intermittent CSF hypotension above these cysts, resulting in intermittent intracranial hypotension. Surgical marsupialisation of the intradural cysts proved to be effective. This resulted in a significant reduction of the headache during the clinical follow-up of eight years. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart New York.

  11. Aluminium Involvement in Neurotoxicity

    PubMed Central

    Fulgenzi, Alessandro; Vietti, Daniele; Ferrero, Maria Elena

    2014-01-01

    The aetiology of neurodegenerative diseases (ND) seems to involve susceptibility genes and environmental factors. Toxic metals are considered major environmental pollutants. Following our study of a case of multiple sclerosis (MS) improvement due to removal of aluminium (Al) and other toxic metals, we have examined the possible relationship between Al intoxication and ND. We used the slow intravenous treatment with the chelating agent EDTA (calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) (chelation test) to remove Al and detected it in the urine collected from the patients for 12 hours. Patients affected by MS represented 85.6% of total ND. Al was present in 44.8% of cases comprehensive of ND and healthy patients. Al levels were significantly higher in ND patients than in healthy subjects. We here show that treatment of patients affected by Al burden with ten EDTA chelation therapies (EDTA intravenous administration once a week) was able to significantly reduce Al intoxication. PMID:25243176

  12. Simulation of infiltration facilities using the SEEP/W model and quantification of flood runoff reduction effect by the decrease in CN.

    PubMed

    Yoo, Chulsang; Ku, Jung Mo; Jun, Changhyun; Zhu, Ju Hua

    2016-01-01

    In this study, four infiltration facilities (permeable pavement, infiltration gutter, infiltration trench, and infiltration well) have been investigated and compared with their flood runoff reduction effect. The SEEP/W model was used to estimate the infiltration amount of each facility, and the flood runoff reduction effect was quantified by the decrease in curve number (CN). As a result of this study, we found that: (1) the infiltration could be successfully simulated by the SEEP/W model, whose result could also be quantified effectively by the decrease in CN; (2) among the four infiltration facilities considered in this study, the infiltration well and infiltration trench were found to be most efficient and economical; (3) finally, the intervention effect of the nearby infiltration facility was found not so significant. In an extreme case where the infiltration wells were located at 1 m interval, the intervention effect was found to be just 1%.

  13. Infiltration of Th1 and Th17 cells and activation of microglia in the CNS during the course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

    PubMed

    Murphy, Aine C; Lalor, Stephen J; Lynch, Marina A; Mills, Kingston H G

    2010-05-01

    Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a mouse model for multiple sclerosis, where disease is mediated by autoantigen-specific T cells. Although there is evidence linking CD4(+) T cells that secrete IL-17, termed Th17 cells, and IFN-gamma-secreting Th1 cells with the pathogenesis of EAE, the precise contribution of these T cell subtypes or their associated cytokines is still unclear. We have investigated the infiltration of CD4(+) T cells that secrete IFN-gamma, IL-17 or both cytokines into CNS during development of EAE and have examined the role of T cells in microglial activation. Our findings demonstrate that Th17 cells and CD4(+) T cells that produce both IFN-gamma and IL-17, which we have called Th1/Th17 cells, infiltrate the brain prior to the development of clinical symptoms of EAE and that this coincides with activation of CD11b(+) microglia and local production of IL-1beta, TNF-alpha and IL-6 in the CNS. In contrast, significant infiltration of Th1 cells was only detected after the development of clinical disease. Co-culture experiments, using mixed glia and MOG-specific T cells, revealed that T cells that secreted IFN-gamma and IL-17 were potent activators of pro-inflammatory cytokines but T cells that secrete IFN-gamma, but not IL-17, were less effective. In contrast both Th1 and Th1/Th17 cells enhanced MHC-class II and co-stimulatory molecule expression on microglia. Our findings suggest that T cells which secrete IL-17 or IL-17 and IFN-gamma infiltrate the CNS prior to the onset of clinical symptoms of EAE, where they may mediate CNS inflammation, in part, through microglial activation. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. A rapid and highly sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method using pre-column derivatization with 2-picolylamine for intravenous and percutaneous pharmacokinetics of valproic acid in rats.

    PubMed

    Joo, Kyung-Mi; Choi, Dalwoong; Park, Yang-Hui; Yi, Chang-Geun; Jeong, Hye-Jin; Cho, Jun-Cheol; Lim, Kyung-Min

    2013-11-01

    A rapid, highly sensitive and specific ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) for the detection of valproic acid (VPA) in rat plasma following the topical application was developed and validated. This method was carried out with pre-column derivatization using 2-picolylamine (PA) which reacts with the carboxylic acid group of VPA. The derivatization was completed in 10min and the resulting PA-VPA derivative enabled the sensitive detection of VPA in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode. Sample preparation was done with simple liquid-liquid extraction and chromatographic separation was achieved within 5min on a C18 column using a gradient elution with the mobile phase of 2mM ammonium formate containing 0.1% formic acid and methanol. The standard curves were linear over the concentration range of 0.07-200μg/mL with a correlation coefficient higher than 0.99. The limit of detection (LOD) and the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 0.03 and 0.07μg/mL, respectively with 100μL of plasma sample. The intra- and inter-day precisions were measured to be below 10.7% and accuracies were within the range of 94.1-115.9%. The validated method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetics of VPA in the rat following topical and intravenous applications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. [Theragnostic approaches using gold nanorods and near infrared light].

    PubMed

    Niidome, Takuro; Shiotani, Atsushi; Akiyama, Yasuyuki; Ohga, Akira; Nose, Keisuke; Pissuwan, Dakrong; Niidome, Yasuro

    2010-12-01

    Gold nanoparticles have unique optical properties such as surface-plasmon and photothermal effects. Such properties have resulted in gold nanoparticles having several clinical applications. Gold nanorods (which are rod-shaped gold nanoparticles) show a surface plasmon band in the near-infrared region. They have therefore been proposed as contrast agents for bioimaging, or as heating devices for photothermal therapy. Polyethylene glycol-modified gold nanorods systemically administrated into mice can be detected with integrating sphere, and the stability of the gold nanorods in blood flow evaluated. After intravenous injection of gold nanorods followed by near-infrared laser irradiation, significant tumor damage triggered by the photothermal effect was observed. To deliver gold nanorods to the target tissue, thermosensitive polymer gel-coated gold nanorods were prepared. After intravenous injection of the gel-modified gold nanorods and irradiation of the tumor, a larger amount of gold was detected in the irradiated tumor than in the non-irradiated tumor. This effect is due to the hydrophobic interaction between the cellular membrane or the extracellular matrix and the gel surfaces induced by the photothermal effect. Furthermore, the photothermal effect enhanced the permeability of the stratum corneum of the skin. As a result of treatment of the skin with ovalbumin and gold nanorods followed by near-infrared light irradiation, a significant amount of protein was detected in the skin. The gold nanorods therefore showed several functions as a photothermal nanodevice for bioimaging, thermal therapy, and a drug delivery system.

  16. Oral contraceptive pills: Risky or protective in case of Trichinella spiralis infection?

    PubMed

    Hasby Saad, M A; Radi, D A; Hasby, E A

    2017-08-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate how Trichinella spiralis infection can be affected by contraceptive pills in vivo. Methods included six groups of female Wistar rats; healthy, Trichinella infected, receiving combined contraceptive pills (COCPs), receiving progestin only pills (POPs), infected receiving COCPs and infected receiving POPs. Parasite burden was measured; adult worm counts, gravidity, larvae and reproductive capacity index). Histopathological examination, immunohistochemical detection of C-kit+ mast cells and Foxp3+ T-reg. cells in intestinal sections, eosinophils muscle infiltration and CPK level were performed. Rats infected and receiving COCPs showed a significant increase in parasitic burden, and infected receiving POPs showed a significant reduction compared to infected only, with a significant increase in nongravid females (Mean total worms=964.40±55.9, 742±52.63, 686±31.68, larvae/g=5030±198.75, 2490±143.18 and 4126±152,91, respectively). Intestinal sections from infected receiving COCPs showed intact mucosa (though the high inflammatory cells infiltrate), and significant increase in C-kit+ mast cells number and intensity (30.20±4.15 and 60.40±8.29), and Foxp3+ T-reg. cells (10±1.58). Infected receiving POPs showed a significantly less CPK (5886±574.40) and eosinophilic muscle infiltration (58±13.51). Oestrogen-containing pills established a favourable intestinal environment for Trichinella by enhancing Foxp+T-reg. cells and stabilizing C-kit+mast cells, while POPs gave a potential protection with less gravidity, larval burden and eosinophilic infiltrate. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. PGD2 induces eotaxin-3 via PPARγ from sebocytes: a possible pathogenesis of eosinophilic pustular folliculitis.

    PubMed

    Nakahigashi, Kyoko; Doi, Hiromi; Otsuka, Atsushi; Hirabayashi, Tetsuya; Murakami, Makoto; Urade, Yoshihiro; Zouboulis, Christos C; Tanizaki, Hideaki; Egawa, Gyohei; Miyachi, Yoshiki; Kabashima, Kenji

    2012-02-01

    Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) is a chronic intractable pruritic dermatosis characterized by massive eosinophil infiltrates involving the pilosebaceous units. Recently, EPF has been regarded as an important clinical marker of HIV infection, and its prevalence is increasing in number. The precise mechanism by which eosinophils infiltrate into the pilosebaceous units remains largely unknown. Given that indomethacin, a COX inhibitor, can be successfully used to treat patients with EPF, we can assume that COX metabolites such as prostaglandins (PGs) are involved in the etiology of EPF. To determine the involvement of PGs in the pathogenesis of EPF. We performed immunostaining for PG synthases in EPF skin lesions. We examined the effect of PGD(2) on induction of eotaxin, a chemoattractant for eosinophils, in human keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and sebocytes and sought to identify its responsible receptor. Hematopoietic PGD synthase was detected mainly in infiltrating inflammatory cells in EPF lesions, implying that PGD(2) was produced in the lesions. In addition, PGD(2) and its immediate metabolite 15-deoxy-Δ 12,14-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) induced sebocytes to produce eotaxin-3 via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. Consistent with the above findings, eotaxin-3 expression was immunohistochemically intensified in sebaceous glands of the EPF lesions. The PGD(2)/PGJ(2)-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma pathway induces eotaxin production from sebocytes, which may explain the massive eosinophil infiltrates observed around pilosebaceous units in EPF. Copyright © 2011 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Bile duct regeneration and immune response by passenger lymphocytes signals biliary recovery versus complications after liver transplantation.

    PubMed

    Junger, Henrik H; Schlitt, Hans J; Geissler, Edward K; Fichtner-Feigl, Stefan; Brunner, Stefan M

    2017-11-01

    This study aimed to elucidate the impact of epithelial regenerative responses and immune cell infiltration on biliary complications after liver transplantation. Bile duct (BD) damage after cold storage was quantified by a BD damage score and correlated with patient outcome in 41 patients. Bacterial infiltration was determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). BD samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for E-cadherin, cytokeratin, CD56, CD14, CD4, CD8, and double-immunofluorescence for cytokine production and by messenger RNA (mRNA) microarray. Increased mRNA levels of adherens junctions (P < 0.01) were detected in damaged BDs from patients without complications compared with damaged BDs from patients with biliary complications. Immunohistochemistry showed increased expression of E-cadherin and cytokeratin in BDs without biliary complications (P = 0.03; P = 0.047). FISH analysis demonstrated translocation of bacteria in BDs. However, mRNA analysis suggested an enhanced immune response in BDs without biliary complications (P < 0.01). Regarding immune cell infiltration, CD4 + and CD8 + cells were significantly increased in patients without complications compared with those with complications (P = 0.02; P = 0.01). In conclusion, following BD damage during cold storage, we hypothesize that the functional regenerative capacity of biliary epithelium and enhanced local adaptive immune cell infiltration are crucial for BD recovery. Such molecular immunological BD analyses therefore could help to predict biliary complications in cases of "major" epithelial damage after cold storage.Liver Transplantation 23 1422-1432 2017 AASLD. © 2017 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

  19. CCR4 is expressed on infiltrating cells in lesional skin of early mycosis fungoides and atopic dermatitis.

    PubMed

    Sugaya, Makoto; Morimura, Sohshi; Suga, Hiraku; Kawaguchi, Makiko; Miyagaki, Tomomitsu; Ohmatsu, Hanako; Fujita, Hideki; Sato, Shinichi

    2015-06-01

    CCR4 is expressed on tumor cells of mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). In MF, most infiltrating cells in patches and plaques express CXCR3, while tumor cells express CCR4 in advanced stages. Poteligeo Test IHC (CCR4 staining kit) is a newly developed staining kit that can examine the presence of CCR4 expressed on tumor cells of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, peripheral T-cell lymphoma and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma before treatment of anti-CCR4 antibody using paraffin-embedded samples. In this study, we analyzed CCR4 expression in lesional skin of MF, SS, atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis with this new kit. CCR4 was expressed on infiltrating cells in lesional skin of patch, plaque, tumor MF and SS, and the number of positive cells increased as the disease progressed. Immunohistochemistry with frozen sections also showed some positive cells scattered in the dermis, although the quality was not high enough to quantify positive cells. There were significant positive correlations between CCR4(+) cells and serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Interestingly, CCR4(+) cells were also detected in AD skin, whose number was larger than that in psoriatic skin. Previous studies showed only scattered CCR4(+) cells in skin samples by standard immunohistochemical staining. The new, sensitive CCR4 staining kit has revealed that CCR4 is expressed on infiltrating cells in lesional skin of early MF and AD as well as advanced MF and SS. These cells can be therapeutic targets for patients who are resistant to standard treatments. © 2015 Japanese Dermatological Association.

  20. Dexamethasone as an adjuvant to peripheral nerve block.

    PubMed

    Pehora, Carolyne; Pearson, Annabel Me; Kaushal, Alka; Crawford, Mark W; Johnston, Bradley

    2017-11-09

    Peripheral nerve block (infiltration of local anaesthetic around a nerve) is used for anaesthesia or analgesia. A limitation to its use for postoperative analgesia is that the analgesic effect lasts only a few hours, after which moderate to severe pain at the surgical site may result in the need for alternative analgesic therapy. Several adjuvants have been used to prolong the analgesic duration of peripheral nerve block, including perineural or intravenous dexamethasone. To evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of perineural dexamethasone versus placebo, intravenous dexamethasone versus placebo, and perineural dexamethasone versus intravenous dexamethasone when added to peripheral nerve block for postoperative pain control in people undergoing surgery. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, DARE, Web of Science and Scopus from inception to 25 April 2017. We also searched trial registry databases, Google Scholar and meeting abstracts from the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the Canadian Anesthesiologists' Society, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia, and the European Society of Regional Anaesthesia. We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing perineural dexamethasone with placebo, intravenous dexamethasone with placebo, or perineural dexamethasone with intravenous dexamethasone in participants receiving peripheral nerve block for upper or lower limb surgery. We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We included 35 trials of 2702 participants aged 15 to 78 years; 33 studies enrolled participants undergoing upper limb surgery and two undergoing lower limb surgery. Risk of bias was low in 13 studies and high/unclear in 22. Perineural dexamethasone versus placeboDuration of sensory block was significantly longer in the perineural dexamethasone group compared with placebo (mean difference (MD) 6.70 hours, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.54 to 7.85; participants1625; studies 27). Postoperative pain intensity at 12 and 24 hours was significantly lower in the perineural dexamethasone group compared with control (MD -2.08, 95% CI -2.63 to -1.53; participants 257; studies 5) and (MD -1.63, 95% CI -2.34 to -0.93; participants 469; studies 9), respectively. There was no significant difference at 48 hours (MD -0.61, 95% CI -1.24 to 0.03; participants 296; studies 4). The quality of evidence is very low for postoperative pain intensity at 12 hours and low for the remaining outcomes. Cumulative 24-hour postoperative opioid consumption was significantly lower in the perineural dexamethasone group compared with placebo (MD 19.25 mg, 95% CI 5.99 to 32.51; participants 380; studies 6). Intravenous dexamethasone versus placeboDuration of sensory block was significantly longer in the intravenous dexamethasone group compared with placebo (MD 6.21, 95% CI 3.53 to 8.88; participants 499; studies 8). Postoperative pain intensity at 12 and 24 hours was significantly lower in the intravenous dexamethasone group compared with placebo (MD -1.24, 95% CI -2.44 to -0.04; participants 162; studies 3) and (MD -1.26, 95% CI -2.23 to -0.29; participants 257; studies 5), respectively. There was no significant difference at 48 hours (MD -0.21, 95% CI -0.83 to 0.41; participants 172; studies 3). The quality of evidence is moderate for duration of sensory block and postoperative pain intensity at 24 hours, and low for the remaining outcomes. Cumulative 24-hour postoperative opioid consumption was significantly lower in the intravenous dexamethasone group compared with placebo (MD -6.58 mg, 95% CI -10.56 to -2.60; participants 287; studies 5). Perinerual versus intravenous dexamethasoneDuration of sensory block was significantly longer in the perineural dexamethasone group compared with intravenous by three hours (MD 3.14 hours, 95% CI 1.68 to 4.59; participants 720; studies 9). We found that postoperative pain intensity at 12 hours and 24 hours was significantly lower in the perineural dexamethasone group compared with intravenous, however, the MD did not surpass our pre-determined minimally important difference of 1.2 on the Visual Analgue Scale/Numerical Rating Scale, therefore the results are not clinically significant (MD -1.01, 95% CI -1.51 to -0.50; participants 217; studies 3) and (MD -0.77, 95% CI -1.47 to -0.08; participants 309; studies 5), respectively. There was no significant difference in severity of postoperative pain at 48 hours (MD 0.13, 95% CI -0.35 to 0.61; participants 227; studies 3). The quality of evidence is moderate for duration of sensory block and postoperative pain intensity at 24 hours, and low for the remaining outcomes. There was no difference in cumulative postoperative 24-hour opioid consumption (MD -3.87 mg, 95% CI -9.93 to 2.19; participants 242; studies 4). Incidence of severe adverse eventsFive serious adverse events were reported. One block-related event (pneumothorax) occurred in one participant in a trial comparing perineural dexamethasone and placebo; however group allocation was not reported. Four non-block-related events occurred in two trials comparing perineural dexamethasone, intravenous dexamethasone and placebo. Two participants in the placebo group required hospitalization within one week of surgery; one for a fall and one for a bowel infection. One participant in the placebo group developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I and one in the intravenous dexamethasone group developed pneumonia. The quality of evidence is very low due to the sparse number of events. Low- to moderate-quality evidence suggests that when used as an adjuvant to peripheral nerve block in upper limb surgery, both perineural and intravenous dexamethasone may prolong duration of sensory block and are effective in reducing postoperative pain intensity and opioid consumption. There is not enough evidence to determine the effectiveness of dexamethasone as an adjuvant to peripheral nerve block in lower limb surgeries and there is no evidence in children. The results of our review may not apply to participants at risk of dexamethasone-related adverse events for whom clinical trials would probably be unsafe.There is not enough evidence to determine the effectiveness of dexamethasone as an adjuvant to peripheral nerve block in lower limb surgeries and there is no evidence in children. The results of our review may not be apply to participants who at risk of dexamethasone-related adverse events for whom clinical trials would probably be unsafe. The nine ongoing trials registered at ClinicalTrials.gov may change the results of this review.

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