Demonstrating Agreement between Radio and Fluorescence Measurements of the Depth of Maximum of Extensive Air Showers at the Pierre Auger Observatory

We show, for the first time, radio measurements of the depth of shower maximum (X_{max}) of air showers induced by cosmic rays that are compared to measurements of the established fluorescence method at the same location. Using measurements at the Pierre Auger Observatory we show full compatibility between our radio and the previously published fluorescence dataset, and between a subset of air showers observed simultaneously with both radio and fluorescence techniques, a measurement setup unique to the Pierre Auger Observatory. Furthermore, we show radio X_{max} resolution as a function of energy and demonstrate the ability to make competitive high-resolution X_{max} measurements with even a sparse radio array. With this, we show that the radio technique is capable of cosmic-ray mass composition studies, both at Auger and at other experiments.

Limits to Gauge Coupling in the Dark Sector Set by the Nonobservation of Instanton-Induced Decay of Super-Heavy Dark Matter in the Pierre Auger Observatory Data

Instantons, which are nonperturbative solutions to Yang-Mills equations, provide a signal for the occurrence of quantum tunneling between distinct classes of vacua. They can give rise to decays of particles otherwise forbidden. Using data collected at the Pierre Auger Observatory, we search for signatures of such instanton-induced processes that would be suggestive of super-heavy particles decaying in the Galactic halo. These particles could have been produced during the post-inflationary epoch and match the relic abundance of dark matter inferred today. The nonobservation of the signatures searched for allows us to derive a bound on the reduced coupling constant of gauge interactions in the dark sector: α_{X}≲0.09, for 10^{9}≲M_{X}/GeV<10^{19}. Conversely, we obtain that, for instance, a reduced coupling constant α_{X}=0.09 excludes masses M_{X}≳3×10^{13}  GeV. In the context of dark matter production from gravitational interactions alone, we illustrate how these bounds are complementary to those obtained on the Hubble rate at the end of inflation from the nonobservation of tensor modes in the cosmological microwave background.

P352 HEALTH SURVEILLANCE FOR ENTRY INTO THE CARDIOLOGY DEPARTMENT IN TIMES OF SARS–COV2 PANDEMIC

Introduction

The SARS–Cov2 pandemic has made it necessary to implement drastic measures to contain the infection and at the same time start a regulated process of protection of health workers (OS) and hospitalized patients (PR).

Objective

To verify the effectiveness of the health surveillance measures for SARS–COoV2 infection put in place to protect the OS and PR in the Cardiology of the Gubbio–Gualdo Tadino Hospital (AUSL Umbria 1).

Material and methods

we conducted a retrospective analysis, in the period 1 April 2020– 30 November 2021, on OS and PR in our Cardiology–UTIC OU. The protocols used for health surveillance provided, in all phases of the pandemic, the well–known general prevention measures (PPE, hand hygiene, distancing, per–triage). In phase 1 of the pandemic, molecular swabs were also carried out every 14 days at the OS and only at the entrance to the PR, in phase 2 antigenic tests every 5 days at the OS and molecular swabs at the entrance and after 48 hours at the PR while in the current phase 3 an antigenic test every 10 days at the OS and PR a molecular swab at T0 and T2 and an antigenic test at the 5th day and subsequently every 5 days.

Results

A total of 320 subjects, a sample of PR (300, 15 patients month) and all OS (20) were analyzed. A total of 2658 swabs were carried out (1088 molecular and 1570 antigenic) and only two positive OS were found in phase 1 of the pandemic alone, while in phase 2 and 3 no OS or PR was positive.

Conclusions

The application of the general rules for the prevention of SARS–Cov2 infection and the definition of precise intra–hospital pathways, together with the application of a hospital health surveillance protocol, has made it possible to significantly limit infections within the OU. In addition, the rapid identification of positive OS allowed for rapid isolation avoiding the spread of infection to PR and other OS. Bibliography: COVID and gender resources. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html ISS, National Survey on COVID–19 contagion in residential and social health structures, 30 March 2020; Guidelines for health activities in phase 1, phase 2 and phase 3 of the pandemic. Umbria Region.

A unique neuroendocrine cell model derived from the human foetal neural crest

PURPOSE

Nowadays, no human neuroendocrine cell models derived from the neural crest are available. In this study, we present non-transformed long-term primary Neural Crest Cells (NCCs) isolated from the trunk region of the neural crest at VIII-XII gestational weeks of human foetuses obtained from voluntary legal abortion.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In NCC, quantitative real-time RT PCR demonstrated the expression of neural crest specifier genes, such as Snail1, Snail2/SLUG, Sox10, FoxD3, c-Myc, and p75NTR. Moreover, these cell populations expressed stemness markers (such as Nanog and nestin), as well as markers of motility and invasion (TAGLN, MMP9, CXCR4, and CXCR7), and of neuronal/glial differentiation (MAP2, GFAP, SYP, and TAU). Functional analysis demonstrated that these cells not only possessed high migration properties, but most importantly, they expressed markers of sympatho-adrenal lineage, such as ASCL1 and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Moreover, the expression of TH increased after the induction with two different protocols of differentiation towards neuronal and sympatho-adrenal phenotypes. Finally, exposure to conditioned culture media from NCC induced a mature phenotype in a neuronal cell model (namely SH-SY5Y), suggesting that NCC may also act like Schwann precursors.

CONCLUSION

This unique human cell model provides a solid tool for future studies addressing the bases of human neural crest-derived neuroendocrine tumours.

Further Studies on the Hypercoagulable State of Patients with Cushing’s Syndrome

Factors XII, XI, IX and VIII, plasminogen and alpha2-antiplasmin levels were found to be increased in a group of patients affected by Cushing’s syndrome. High activity of these coagulation factors could be due to their increased release and synthesis mediated by cortisol. A significant correlation between the main arterial pressure and either factor VIII antigen, ristocetin cofactor or factor XII activity was found. Moreover a similar correlation between factor XII activity and either factor VIII antigen or ristocetin cofactor was seen. In conclusion, the presence of a hypercoagulable state in Cushing’s syndrome seems confirmed. Synergic release of factor XII and factor VIII from endothelium could be due to high blood vessel tone secondary to hypercorticism. Finally, decreased fibrinolytic activity was suspected according to plasminogen and alpha2-antiplasmin increase.

Clinico-pathological profile evaluation in patients affected by chronic inflammatory bowel diseases

Introduction

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) have high social impact. Aetiology is still unknown, however multifactorial genesis is surely implicated. We tried to correlate IBDs and psychological distress through evaluated psychometrical instruments and subsequently to relate subjective influences with gastroenteric clinical manifestation, defining new critical elements on which IBD are based.

Methods

In our study, we included 57 participants, selected according to their diagnosis, between those attending our gastrointestinal ambulatory: 26 had Chron's disease, while 31 had ulcerative colitis. 78 people without gastroenteric or psychiatric disorder were also included in the study as control group. Psychometric questionnaires were administered to evaluate anxiety and depressive symptoms, quality of live, self-efficacy and resilience (Fig. 1).

Results

Levels of anxiety and depression were higher in patients with IBDs than in the control group. STAI-Y highlighted higher state anxiety and trait anxiety levels in first group. HADS showed higher scores in ill patients, as well as CD-RISC showed a more impaired resilience. EQ-VAS, PGWBI and GSE revealed significant differences in health status, psychological wellness and self-efficacy between the two groups.

Conclusions

IBDs seem related to psychological diseases. Affected patients have higher anxiety and depression levels than general population as well as lower self-efficacy and resilience. Those elements being strictly linked to physical discomfort contributes to develop a loop in which patients get caught. Creating a model of integrated cooperation between gastroenterologist and psychiatrist during treatment of patients with IBDs seems fundamental to grant at once all the professional figures each patient needs for better care.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

The association of anti-platelet factor 4/heparin antibodies with early and delayed thromboembolism after cardiac surgery

Essentials We evaluated antibody status, thromboembolism and survival after cardiac surgery. Positive antibody tests are common - over 50% are seropositive at 30 days. Seropositivity did not increase thromboembolism or impair survival after cardiac surgery. Results show heparin induced thrombocytopenia antibody screening after surgery is not warranted.

SUMMARY

Background Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a prothrombotic response to heparin therapy with platelet-activating, anti-platelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin antibodies leading to thrombocytopenia associated with thromboembolism. Objective We tested the hypothesis that anti-PF4/heparin antibodies are associated with thromboembolism after cardiac surgery. Methods This multicenter, prospective cohort study collected laboratory and clinical data up to 30 days after surgery and longer-term clinical follow-up data. The primary outcome variable combined new arterial or venous thromboembolic complications (TECs) with all-cause death until 90 days after surgery. Laboratory analyses included platelet counts and anti-PF4/heparin antibody titers (GTI ELISA), with a confirmatory excess heparin step and serotonin release assay. Chi-square testing was used to test the relationship between our outcome and HIT antibody seropositivity. Results Initially, 1021 patients were enrolled between August 2006 and May 2009, and follow-up was completed in December 2014. Seropositivity defined by OD > 0.4 was common, being almost 20% preoperatively, > 30% by discharge, and > 60% by day 30. Death (1.7% within 30 days) or TECs (69 in total) were more likely if the partient was seronegative (OD < 0.4), but positivity defined by OD > 1.0 or including an excess heparin confirmatory step resulted in equal incidence of death or TECs, whether the patient was seronegative or seropositive. Incorporating the serotonin release assay for platelet-activating antibodies did not alter these findings. Conclusions Seropositivity for anti-PF4/heparin antibodies does not increase the risk of death or thromboembolism after cardiac surgery. Screening is not indicated, and seropositivity should only be interpreted in the context of clinical evidence for HIT.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Duke IRB Protocol #00010736.

Development and reproduction of Spodoptera eridania (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and its egg parasitoid Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) on the genetically modified soybean (Bt) MON 87701×MON 89788

Genetically modified crops with insect resistance genes from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt-plants) are increasingly being cultivated worldwide. Therefore, it is critical to improve our knowledge of their direct or indirect impact not only on target pests but also on non-target arthropods. Hence, this study evaluates comparative leaf consumption and performance of Spodoptera eridania (Cramer), a species that is tolerant of the Cry1Ac protein, fed with Bt soybean, MON 87701×MON 89788 or its near [corrected] non-Bt isoline. Using this species as a model, we assessed [corrected] the comparative performance of the egg parasitoid Telenomus remus Nixon on eggs of S. eridania produced from individuals that fed on these two soybean genotypes [corrected] as larvae. Results showed that Bt soybean did not affect pest foliage consumption, but did reduce larvel duration by two days despite larvae in both treatments having six instars. Nevertheless, survival of S. eridania larvae, pupal weight, sex ratio, fecundity and longevity of female moths, and egg viability did not differ between Bt and non-Bt soybeans. Adult longevity of S. eridania males was increased when caterpillars were fed with Bt soybean versus the near isoline. No adverse effects of this technology were observed for the egg parasitoid T. remus. [corrected].

Baseline susceptibility to Cry1Ac insecticidal protein in Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) populations in Brazil

The tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.), is one of the target pests of genetically modified cotton expressing Cry1Ac insecticidal protein (Bt cotton) derived from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner. This study was conducted to evaluate the susceptibility of field-collected populations of H. virescens to Cry1Ac to establish a baseline for use in an insect resistance management program for Bt cotton in Brazil. Insects were sampled from the main Brazilian cotton-growing regions (Bahia, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Goiás) during the cropping seasons of 2007/08 and 2008/09. Cry1Ac susceptibility was estimated by using diet incorporation bioassays. H. virescens was highly susceptible to Cry1Ac protein. The estimated LC50 values varied from 0.18 to 0.66 microg of Cry1Ac/ml of diet among the 2007-2008 populations (approximately 3.7-fold variation). Similarly, the EC50 values based on growth inhibition ranged from 0.0053 to 0.0161 microg of Cry1Ac/ml of diet for the 2007-2008 populations (approximately 3.0-fold variation). A joint analysis of the mortality data across all tested populations was used to develop and validate the diagnostic concentrations of 3.1 and 5.6 microg of Cry1Ac/ml of diet, the upper bound of the confidence interval and twice the LC99 were selected, for resistance monitoring programs of H. virescens to Cry1Ac protein in Brazil.

Surfactant administration during spontaneous breathing via a thin endotracheal catheter

In the past two decades exogenous surfactant administration has been a cornerstone of therapy for preterm infants and is known to be effective either given prophylactically in the delivery room or later as selective therapy to infants with estabilished respiratory distress syndrome. Its introduction in neonatal practice in the early 90s was followed by a significant decrease in overall neonatal mortality. With the evolution and refinement of intensive care for preterm infants, the role of exogenous surfactant therapy is changing. The more widespread use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (n-CPAP) as a primary mode of respiratory support means that many preterm infants now avoid intubation in the delivery room or in early post-natal life. Still, about 50% of them, will require intubation for surfactant delivery for evolving respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) during the course of hospitalization. In view of the difficulties and side effects that may be associated with intubation for surfactant delivery, less invasive ways of surfactant administration have been pursued. The rationale and the available evidences inherent the administration of surfactant via a thin endotracheal catheter during spontaneous breathing will be discussed.

Hepatic left lobe volume is a sensitive index of metabolic improvement in obese women after gastric banding

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a common finding in obese subjects. Increasing evidence has been provided suggesting that it represents the hepatic component of the metabolic syndrome.

OBJECTIVE

Aim of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the relationships between several anthropometric measures, including the hepatic left lobe volume (HLLV), and various indicators of the metabolic syndrome in a cohort of severely obese women before and after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB).

STUDY DESIGN AND RESULTS

Seventy-five obese women (mean age 45 ± 10 years and body mass index (BMI) 42.5 ± 4.8 kg m(-2)) underwent LAGB and completed an average (± s.d.) post-surgical follow-up of 24 ± 6 months. Determination of HLLV, subcutaneous and intra-abdominal fat (IAF) was based on ultrasound. The principal component statistical analysis applied to pre-operative measurements, highlighted HLLV as a parameter that clustered with serum insulin, IAF, serum glucose and uric acid, along with triglycerides (TGs), alkaline phosphatase and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. After LAGB, the average reduction of BMI was 23%, 12% for subcutaneous fat (SCF), 42% for HLLV and 40% for visceral fat. Among body weight, BMI, SCF, IAF and HLLV, reduction of the latter was an independent predictor of reduction of serum transaminases and γ-Glutamyltransferase, glucose, insulin and TGs.

CONCLUSIONS

In severely obese women: (i) HLLV is a sensitive indicator of ectopic fat deposition, clustering with parameters defining the metabolic syndrome; (ii) weight loss achieved by LAGB is associated with a reduction of liver volume as estimated by HLLV; (iii) among various anthropometric parameters measured, reduction of HLLV that follows LAGB represents the best single predictor of improvement of various cardiometabolic risk factors.

Therapeutic targeting of Chk1 in NSCLC stem cells during chemotherapy

Cancer stem cell (SC) chemoresistance may be responsible for the poor clinical outcome of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. In order to identify the molecular events that contribute to NSCLC chemoresistance, we investigated the DNA damage response in SCs derived from NSCLC patients. We found that after exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs NSCLC-SCs undergo cell cycle arrest, thus allowing DNA damage repair and subsequent cell survival. Activation of the DNA damage checkpoint protein kinase (Chk) 1 was the earliest and most significant event detected in NSCLC-SCs treated with chemotherapy, independently of their p53 status. In contrast, a weak Chk1 activation was found in differentiated NSCLC cells, corresponding to an increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs as compared with their undifferentiated counterparts. The use of Chk1 inhibitors in combination with chemotherapy dramatically reduced NSCLC-SC survival in vitro by inducing premature cell cycle progression and mitotic catastrophe. Consistently, the co-administration of the Chk1 inhibitor AZD7762 and chemotherapy abrogated tumor growth in vivo, whereas chemotherapy alone was scarcely effective. Such increased efficacy in the combined use of Chk1 inhibitors and chemotherapy was associated with a significant reduction of NSCLC-SCs in mouse xenografts. Taken together, these observations support the clinical evaluation of Chk1 inhibitors in combination with chemotherapy for a more effective treatment of NSCLC.

Permanent genetic resources added to Molecular Ecology Resources Database 1 August 2010-30 September 2010

This article documents the addition of 229 microsatellite marker loci to the Molecular Ecology Resources Database. Loci were developed for the following species: Acacia auriculiformis × Acacia mangium hybrid, Alabama argillacea, Anoplopoma fimbria, Aplochiton zebra, Brevicoryne brassicae, Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Bucorvus leadbeateri, Delphacodes detecta, Tumidagena minuta, Dictyostelium giganteum, Echinogammarus berilloni, Epimedium sagittatum, Fraxinus excelsior, Labeo chrysophekadion, Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi, Paratrechina longicornis, Phaeocystis antarctica, Pinus roxburghii and Potamilus capax. These loci were cross-tested on the following species: Acacia peregrinalis, Acacia crassicarpa, Bruguiera cylindrica, Delphacodes detecta, Tumidagena minuta, Dictyostelium macrocephalum, Dictyostelium discoideum, Dictyostelium purpureum, Dictyostelium mucoroides, Dictyostelium rosarium, Polysphondylium pallidum, Epimedium brevicornum, Epimedium koreanum, Epimedium pubescens, Epimedium wushanese and Fraxinus angustifolia.

[The Italian version of Nordic Musculoskeletal Standardized Questionnaire]

We translated into Italian the Nordic musculoskelethal questionnaire, as completed by Canadian IRSST with Authors' agreement in 2001, according to OMS recommendations. This translation involved the following items: aches and troubles of neck, dorsal region, low back, shoulders, elbows, hands and wrists, hips and thighs, ankles and feet in the last 12 months. The questionnaire was then submitted to reliability and stability tests. The Italian version of the questionnaire, already used in different languages, proved to be suitable and reliable also for self administration.

Genetic structure and molecular variability of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) collected in maize and cotton fields in Brazil

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the genetic similarity and structure of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), populations associated with maize and cotton crops in Brazil using amplified fragment length polymorphisms. Mean genetic similarity among populations was 0.45. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean analysis dendrograms did not separate populations of S. frugiperda into clusters related to the host plant in which the insects were collected. No genetic variation was observed among maize and cotton populations of S. frugiperda, suggesting that the same populations are injuring both crops in Brazil. This research validates the need for stewardship of crop-protection methods for managing S. frugiperda to reduce the incidence of pesticide resistance, due to the spatial and temporal overlapping of maize and cotton crops in some regions in Brazil.

Predicting preterm delivery in asymptomatic patients with prior preterm delivery by measurement of cervical length and phosphorylated insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of cervical length measurement in combination with a bedside assessment of phosphorylated insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1 (phIGFBP-1) as a predictor of preterm delivery in asymptomatic pregnant women with a history of preterm birth.

METHODS

Cervical length was measured using transvaginal sonography at 22-24 weeks of gestation in 105 singleton pregnancies and a rapid strip test was performed to detect phIGFBP-1 in cervical secretions from 24 to 34 weeks. Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed to compare the performance of phIGFBP-1 at different gestational ages, and cervical length at 22-24 weeks, in predicting preterm delivery.

RESULTS

The rate of spontaneous delivery before 37 and 34 weeks was 23.8% and 11.4%, respectively. Women with cervical lengths less than 20 mm had a risk of spontaneous preterm delivery before 34 and 37 weeks of 43.5% and 69.6%, respectively. The performance of phIGFBP-1 levels as a predictor of preterm delivery was significantly higher when the test was carried out at 30 weeks' gestation. Cervical assessment in combination with phIGFBP-1 at 30 weeks had the steepest ROC curve (area under the curve=0.93; 95% CI, 0.88-0.98, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Both cervical length and phIGFBP-1 measurement are useful in the prediction of preterm delivery in patients with a history of preterm birth and the combined method of measuring cervical length at 22-24 weeks and phIGFBP-1 at 30 weeks improves upon either method used alone.

Targeting survivin via PI3K but not c-akt/PKB by anticancer drugs in immature neutrophils

Myelosuppression is the most common unwanted side effect associated with the administration of anticancer drugs, and infections remain a common cause of death in chemotherapy-treated patients. Several mechanisms of the cytotoxicity of these drugs have been proposed and may synergistically operate in a given cell. Survivin expression has been associated with cancer, but recent reports suggest that this molecule is also expressed in several immature and mature hematopoietic cells. Here, we provide evidence that treatment of immature neutrophils with anticancer drugs reduced endogenous survivin levels causing apoptosis. The anticancer drugs did not directly target survivin, instead they blocked the activity of phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase, which regulated survivin expression and apoptosis in these cells. Strikingly, and in contrast to other cells, this pathway did not involve the serine/threonine kinase c-akt/PKB. Moreover, in combination with anticancer drug therapy, rapamycin did not induce increased myelosuppression in an experimental lymphoma mouse model. These data suggest that drugs that block either c-akt/PKB or signaling molecules located distal to c-akt/PKB may preferentially induce apoptosis of cancer cells as they exhibit no cytotoxicity for immature neutrophils.

[Assessment of the risk of occupational biomechanical overload: comparison of methods currently used]

Some of the most common methods for the evaluation of the ergonomic risk of Work-Related Musculo Skeletal Disorders were applied to different workplaces. The results show that an evaluation of the single components of the synthetic risk-indices given by the methods is needed to evidence the specific critical aspects.

Normal neuropsychological development in children with congenital complete heart block who may or may not be exposed to high-dose dexamethasone in utero

BACKGROUND

Antenatal and postnatal treatment with dexamethasone (DEX) may negatively affect the neuropsychological development in children. Maternal anti-Ro/Sjögren's syndrome A (SSA) antibodies may also be associated with learning disabilities in offspring.

OBJECTIVE

To assess neuropsychological development in babies exposed to very high dosages of DEX in utero, whose mothers were anti-Ro/SSA positive.

METHODS

13 children with congenital complete heart block (CHB) (11 exposed and 2 not exposed to DEX) and 3 healthy siblings, all of anti-Ro/SSA-positive women, were evaluated. 11 preschool-aged children (5 boys) were assessed using Griffiths Mental Development Scales. 5 school-aged children (2 boys) were examined using Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised to check IQ and reading tests to explore the existence of learning disabilities or dyslexia. None of the children had had major neonatal complications, although those with CHB had to be paced at different intervals from birth.

RESULTS

The children had been exposed in utero to a mean total dose of 186.6 mg DEX. IQ levels were always normal (mean IQ 105.1, standard deviation (SD) 9.5). Only one child had a learning disability, of borderline clinical significance, but this child had never been exposed to DEX.

CONCLUSION

No negative effects were found on the neuropsychological development in this cohort of children, even if they had been exposed to maternal anti-Ro/SSA antibodies and to very high dosages of DEX (much higher than those used to improve fetal lung maturity). These findings might be of interest in view of the large number of infants exposed in the past to repeated antenatal courses of steroids.

De novo pure 12q22q24.33 duplication: First report of a case with mental retardation, ADHD, and Dandy-Walker malformation

We present a patient with a de novo 12q nonmosaic pure duplication characterized by multiple minor anomalies and Dandy-Walker malformation. A neurological and behavioral assessment revealed psychomotor retardation and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with neurobehavioral abnormalities (auto- and heteroaggressive behavior). Fluoxetine therapy in this case markedly improved the neurobehavioral profile, with a decreased level of aggression. To define the extension of the duplicated region, we performed FISH analyses by using YAC probes. The analyses revealed a tandem duplication of the 12q22q24.33 region, with the proximal breakpoint located between 96.5 and 97.6 cM and the distal one between 154 and 161 cM. This is the first case of pure de novo duplication involving the 12q22q24.33 region. To better define the clinical phenotype associated with 12q partial duplication, we compared our case with the four patients with similar pure duplications previously described.

Gene expression profiling of acute promyelocytic leukaemia identifies two subtypes mainly associated with Flt3 mutational status

Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is a well-defined disease characterized by a typical morphology of leukaemic cells, the presence of t(15;17) translocation and the unique sensitivity to the differentiating effect of all-trans retinoic acid. Nevertheless, some aspects are variable among APL patients, with differences substantially related to morphological variants, peripheral leukocytes count, the presence of a disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, different PML/RARalpha isoforms (long, variable or short) and Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3) mutations. In order to better define this variability, we investigated the gene expression profiles of 18 APL cases revealing, besides a high uniformity in gene expression pattern, the presence of few robust differences among patients able to identify, by an unsupervised analysis, two major clusters of patients characterized by different phenotypes (hypogranular M3v vs classical M3) and by the presence or absence of Flt3 internal tandem duplications (ITDs). Further supervised analysis confirmed that Flt3 status was the APL parameter best associated with these two subgroups. We identified, between Flt3 wild-type and Flt3-ITDs subsets, 147 differentially expressed genes that were involved in the cytoskeleton organization, in the cell adhesion and migration, in the proliferation and the coagulation/inflammation pathways as well as in differentiation and myeloid granules constitution suggesting a role of Flt3 mutations in the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of APL.

Sensitivity to DNA cross-linking chemotherapeutic agents in mismatch repair-defective cells in vitro and in xenografts

Together with tolerance to killing induced by methylating agents, loss of mismatch repair (MMR) has previously been found to be associated with hypersensitivity to the DNAcross-linking agent 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-nitrosourea(CCNU) in several human tumor cell lines (Aquilina et al., 1998). Here, we have investigated whether MMR might act as an efficient repair pathway and provide protection against the clastogenicity induced by CCNU and whether the hypersensitivity of MMR-defective cells is extended to other cross-linking agents. An increase in cell killing and in the frequency of micronuclei was observed after CCNU exposure in 2 hPMS2-defective clones (clones 6 and 7) compared with the parental HeLa cells. Introduction of a wild-type copy of chromosome 7 in clone 7 led to re-expression of the hPMS2 protein and brought survival and chromosomal damage upon CCNU exposure to parental levels. Our data indicate that MMR protects against the clastogenic damage induced by this drug. The hPMS2-defective HeLa cells were also hypersensitive to killing by mitomycin C. Mitomycin C sensitivity was confirmed in an hMLH1-defective clone derived from Raji cells and in msh2-defective mouse embryo fibroblasts derived from knock-out mice. hPMS2-defective and parental HeLa cells were transplanted into nude mice, and the animals were treated with mitomycin C. While parental cell growth rate was unaffected, the growth of MMR-defective tumor was significantly reduced. Our results indicate that the in vitro hypersensitivity to mitomycin C conferred by loss of MMR is paralleled in vivo and may have implications for the chemotherapy of MMR-defective tumors.

Mismatch repair and p53 independently affect sensitivity to N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-cyclohexyl-N-nitrosourea

The contributions of defective mismatch repair (MMR) and the p53-response to cell killing by N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-cyclohexyl-N-nitrosourea (CCNU) were evaluated. MMR defects were previously shown to be associated with CCNU sensitivity (G. Aquilina et al., Cancer Res., 58: 135-141, 1998). Unexpectedly, eight MMR-deficient variants of the A2780 human ovarian carcinoma cell line were 3-fold more resistant to CCNU than the MMR-proficient parental cells. The variants were members of a preexisting subpopulation of drug-resistant A2780 cells. In addition to deficient expression of the MMR protein hMLH1, an essential component of the hMutL alpha repair complex, the variants exhibited alterations in the expression of other genes that influence drug sensitivity. Although A2780 cells possess a wild-type p53 gene, all of the clones contained a heterozygous G to T tranversion at codon 172. This change resulted in a Val to Phe substitution and was associated with a constitutive production of high levels of p53, which was inactive as a transcriptional activator of bax and p21. The hMLH1/p53 defective variants displayed a less prominent cell cycle arrest and reduced apoptosis after CCNU treatment. In contrast, MMR-defective A2780 variants, which had a similar hMutL alpha defect but retained a wild-type p53, did exhibit the expected CCNU sensitivity. Expression of a dominant-negative p53val135 increased CCNU resistance of both MMR-proficient and MMR-deficient A2780 cells. Thus, defective MMR and p53 influence CCNU sensitivity in opposite directions. Their effects are independent, and sensitization by defective MMR does not require a functional p53 response.

Combined mismatch and nucleotide excision repair defects in a human cell line: mismatch repair processes methylation but not UV- or ionizing radiation-induced DNA damage

Interaction between long patch mismatch repair (MMR) and persistent DNA O6-methylguanine or 6-thioguanine (6-TG) is implicated in the cytotoxicity of methylating agents and 6-TG, respectively. Human cells with defective MMR tolerate DNA methylation damage and are cross-resistant to 6-TG. To determine whether MMR contributes to the lethal effects of persistent UV-induced DNA lesions, MMR deficiency was introduced into nucleotide excision repair (NER)-defective XP12RO cells. The doubly repair-defective cells, designated XP12ROB4, did not express detectable hMSH2 protein. They had the mutator phenotype, N-methyl-N-nitrosourea and 6-TG resistance typical of MMR-defective cells. Active MMR was not required for the cytotoxicity of UV light, and the hMSH2 defect did not detectably alter the survival of XP12ROB4. The level of spontaneous or UV-induced SCE was also similar in XP12RO and XP12ROB4, indicating that hMSH2 is not required for this recombination process. The combined deficiency in MMR and NER did not confer a significant degree of tolerance to ionizing radiation, and the survival of XP12RO and XP12ROB4 after gamma-radiation was similar. Although it recognizes and processes some persistent damaged or modified DNA base pairs, MMR is unlikely to serve as a general sensor of DNA damage.

Hepatic stellate cells are not subjected to oxidant stress during iron-induced fibrogenesis in rodents

Oxidant stress plays a key role in hepatic fibrogenesis. This study was undertaken to assess whether, during iron overload-associated liver fibrosis in vivo, oxidant stress occurs in hepatic stellate cells (HSC) during active fibrogenesis. Gerbils were treated with iron-dextran, and, after hepatic fibrosis developed, livers were subjected to various combination of in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry analyses. In iron-treated animals, no specific accumulation of ferritin protein was found in collagen mRNA-expressing cells. Moreover, the activity of the iron regulatory protein, the main sensor of cellular iron status, was unchanged in HSC from iron-treated animals. Although a significant amount of malondialdehyde-protein adducts was detected in gerbil liver during fibrogenesis, accumulation of these lipid peroxidation by-products was restricted to iron-laden cells adjacent to activated HSC. In cultured gerbil HSC, iron, aldehydes, and other pro-oxidants were able to enhance the expression of an oxidant stress-responsive gene, heme oxygenase (HO), with no change in collagen mRNA accumulation. In keeping with these findings, we found that, in vivo, activation of HO gene was present in iron-filled nonparenchymal cell aggregates, but absent in HSC. In conclusion, the data indicate that during iron overload-associated fibrogenesis, HSC are not directly subjected to oxidant stress, but are likely to be activated by paracrine signals arising in neighboring cells.

N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-cyclohexyl-N-nitrosourea sensitivity in mismatch repair-defective human cells

To determine whether loss of mismatch repair (MMR) confers sensitivity to N-(2-chloroethyl)-N'-cyclohexyl-N-nitrosourea (CCNU), the sensitivity of MMR-defective (MMR-) variants was compared to that of their parental cells. Loss of MMR confers between 2- and 5-fold hypersensitivity to CCNU on HeLa, Raji, or Chinese hamster ovary cells. We also examined whether the sensitivity to CCNU is a general feature of MMR-human tumor cells. The majority expressed O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT; Mex+ phenotype) that confers resistance to CCNU independent of their MMR status. The single Mex- MMR- SW48 cells were 4-fold more sensitive to CCNU than the Mex- MMR+ SW620 cells. CCNU sensitivity of the Mex+ cells was analyzed after treatment with the MGMT inhibitor O6-benzylguanine. The MMR- AN3CA, LS174T, LoVo, and DU145 cells were 1.4-4.3-fold more sensitive to CCNU than the MMR+ HeLaS3, HT29, and A2780 cells. Hypersensitivity to CCNU was not seen in the MMR- cell lines DLD1, HEC1A, and HCT116, suggesting that other parameters, besides the MGMT and MMR defects, affect the cell's response to this drug. In contrast, loss of MMR was always associated with tolerance to the methylating agent N-methyl-N-nitrosourea. The sensitivity to CCNU in MMR- cells suggests a possible involvement of this repair pathway in repairing interstrand cross-links and may have implications for clinical treatment of MMR- tumors.

Anti-synapsin monoclonal antibodies: epitope mapping and inhibitory effects on phosphorylation and Grb2 binding

The synapsins are a family of major neuron-specific synaptic vesicle-associated phosphoproteins which play important roles in synaptic function. In an effort to identify molecular tools which can be used to perturb the activity of the synapsins in in vitro as well as in vivo experiments, we have localized the epitopes of a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) raised against synapsins I and II and have characterized their ability to interfere with the interactions of the synapsins with protein kinases, actin and Src homology-3 (SH3) domains. The epitopes of the six mAbs were found to be concentrated in the N-terminal region within domains A and B for the synapsin II-reactive mAbs 19.4, 19.11, 19.51 and 19.21, and in two C-terminal clusters in the proline-rich domains D for synapsin I (mAbs 10.22, 19.51, 19.11 and 19.8) and G for synapsin II (mAb 19.8). The synapsin II-specific mAbs 19.4 and 19.21, whose overlapping epitopes are adjacent to phosphorylation site 1, specifically inhibited synapsin II phosphorylation by endogenous or exogenous cAMP-dependent protein kinase. While all the anti-synapsin I mAbs were unable to affect the interactions of synapsin I both with Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and with actin monomers and filaments, mAbs 19.8 and 19.51 were found to inhibit the binding of Grb2 SH3 domains to the proline-rich C-terminal region of synapsin I.

Reversal of methylation tolerance by transfer of human chromosome 2

Human cell lines resistant to N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) were previously assigned to two complementation groups. Members of group I are defective in mismatch correction [S. Ceccotti, G Aquilina, P. Macpherson, M. Yamada, P. Karran, M. Bignami, Processing of O6-methylguanine by mismatch correction in human cell extracts. Current Biol. 6 (1996) 1528-1531]. To identify the mechanism responsible for the less pronounced phenotype of the second complementation group, we characterized the persistence of MNU-induced O6-methylguanine (O6-meGua) and mutation induction at the hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyl-transferase (HPRT) locus. Group II clones are unable to repair the premutagenic base O6-meGua and are as mutable by MNU as group I clones and the parental HeLaMR cells. MNU-induced SCE were undetectable in group I clones and drastically reduced in group II in comparison with the parental cells. These observations are consistent with a defective processing of DNA methylation damage by members of both groups. Group II clones exhibit a moderate spontaneous mutator phenotype at the HPRT gene but significant instability at mononucleotide repeat microsatellites. Introduction of a single human chromosome 2 (but not of chromosome 3 or 7) into group II cells partially reverts both MNU resistance and the increased spontaneous mutation rate. The properties of group II variants are consistent with methylation tolerance and a partially defective mismatch repair. We propose that members of group II are defective in the chromosome 2-based mismatch correction gene GTBP/hMSH6.

Treatment of chronic hepatitis C with interferon-alpha by monitoring the response according to viraemia

In chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection, treatment with interferon is associated with a rather low rate of sustained response and many treated patients do not achieve significant benefit. Efforts have therefore been made to identify non-responders as early as possible to avoid unjustified costs and side-effects. We treated 106 cases of HCV with an algorithm based on the results of sequential alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and HCV RNA determinations, using an initial dose of 6 MU thrice weekly for 4 months, and modified the subsequent treatment according to the biochemical and virological profile. Thirty-three out of 48 patients (68.7%) who were HCV RNA negative with normal ALT at 4 months after initiation of treatment were sustained responders when treated for an additional 4-month period with a reduced 3 MU dose, while sustained response was achieved in 12.5% of HCV RNA positive patients treated with a higher dosage and for a more prolonged period of time. Our findings indicate that HCV RNA monitoring during interferon therapy may be useful in modifying of the treatment schedule for the individual patient.

Persistent hepatitis C viremia predicts late relapse after sustained response to interferon-alpha in chronic hepatitis C. TriVeneto Viral Hepatitis Group

OBJECTIVE

To define long-term outcome in patients with chronic hepatitis C who remain viremic after sustained biochemical response to interferon-alpha therapy.

DESIGN

Prospective evaluation of an outpatient cohort.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS

107 patients with chronic hepatitis C who maintained normal aminotransferase levels as long as 12 months after interferon-alpha therapy. Patients were followed prospectively for an additional 6 to 36 months.

MEASUREMENTS

Aminotransferase levels were monitored at 3-month intervals. Serum hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA was tested by polymerase chain reaction before therapy, at the end of therapy, and 12 months after therapy. The HCV genotype was defined by spot hybridization using serum specimens obtained before treatment.

RESULTS

Hepatitis C virus RNA was detected in 27 (25%) patients with sustained biochemical response; 80 (75%) patients were negative for HCV RNA. Patients positive for HCV RNA were older (P < 0.001), had received a smaller interferon-alpha dose (P = 0.02), and were more frequently infected with HCV genotype 2 (P < 0.01). Liver histologic findings were active in 57% of patients positive for HCV RNA, despite normal alanine aminotransferase levels, compared with only 12% of patients who were negative for HCV RNA (P = 0.01). The estimated probability of hepatitis relapse by 4 years after therapy was 53% in viremic patients and 0% in patients negative for HCV RNA (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with chronic hepatitis C should be tested for serum HCV RNA 1 year after a sustained biochemical response to interferon-alpha therapy to determine whether the response is complete and permanent.

Biased assessment of gestational age at birth when obstetric gestation is known

The gestational age of 302 neonates whose obstetric gestational age was known was assessed at birth using the Dubowitz method; it was obtained from Dubowitz score both graphically from a nomogram and by calculation from the corresponding equation. The values obtained graphically differed to a lesser extent from the obstetric gestational age than did the gestation derived algebraically. With infants small for gestational age (SGA) the difference between the methods was smaller and not significant. It is concluded that the concurrent knowledge of obstetric gestational age introduced a bias in the graphic step; this did not happen in SGA infants probably because in these cases the available information is sometimes less certain. These data demonstrate that even simple procedures are influenced by concurrent information; as a philosophical point about the interpretation of data in general, this study provides an empirical example of the 'theory-ladenness of facts' in medicine.

Noninvasive determination of the anaerobic threshold in swimming

The relationship between swimming velocity (V) and heart rate (HR) was determined in 60 swimmers. The athletes were asked to increase their work intensity progressively, from low to submaximal velocities; HRs were determined by a telemetric cardiofrequency meter. In all the athletes examined and for each style employed, the linearity of the V3-HR relationship was maintained up to a submaximal velocity (deflection velocity, Vd), beyond which the increase in work intensity exceeded the increase in HR. The test-retest correlation for Vd determined in nine pent-athletes was 0.99. Vd and anaerobic threshold (AT), determined through lactate measurements, were correlated in six swimmers (r = 0.84). Vd and average swimming velocities in a modern pentathlon swimming race (300 m free-style) were also correlated (n = 9, r = 0.91), thus suggesting that AT is critical in determining the speed in middle-distance swimming events.

Unmodified performance in runners following anabolic steroid administration

The effect of a low-dose treatment (10 mg/day) of stanozolol on the anaerobic threshold (AT) and on maximal velocity (Vmax) was studied in ten well-trained runners in a 6-week trial experiment. The serum levels of testosterone (T), interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH), and of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were determined before, during, and after the steroid administration. No improvements of AT and Vmax were found. No improvement of the competition running times was observed during the experimental period. The ICSH and FSH serum concentrations did not change significantly, while a marked decrease of the T serum concentration was observed. It is concluded that a low-dose treatment of stanozolol, sufficient to depress the testicular function, does not improve athletic performance.

Further studies on the hypercoagulable state of patients with Cushing's syndrome

Factors XII, XI, IX and VIII, plasminogen and alpha 2-antiplasmin levels were found to be increased in a group of patients affected by Cushing's syndrome. High activity of these coagulation factors could be due to their increased release and synthesis mediated by cortisol. A significant correlation between the main arterial pressure and either factor VIII antigen, ristocetin cofactor or factor XII activity was found. Moreover a similar correlation between factor XII activity and either factor VIII antigen or ristocetin cofactor was seen. In conclusion, the presence of a hypercoagulable state in Cushing's syndrome seems confirmed. Synergic release of factor XII and factor VIII from endothelium could be due to high blood vessel tone secondary to hypercorticism. Finally, decreased fibrinolytic activity was suspected according to plasminogen and alpha 2-antiplasmin increase.

Fibrinolytic study in plasma and ascitic fluid of cirrhotic patients before and after ascites concentration; reinfusion technique

Management of cirrhosis with massive ascites involves particular difficulties. The introduction of a peritoneovenous shunt and reinfusion of concentrated ascitic fluid techniques allows increased diuresis and improves renal function. However, these procedures have frequently been associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation and/or activation of fibrinolysis. Factor VIII activity, antigen and ristocetin cofactor, plasminogen, antiplasmin, plasminogen activator activity and plasmin-antiplasmin complex were investigated both in the ascitic fluid and plasma of cirrhotic patients before and after the concentration-reinfusion technique. Our results indicated that no hyperfibrinolysis was seen in the plasma of cirrhotic patients and that activation of fibrinolysis exists in ascites. Significantly higher levels of plasmin-antiplasmin complex and plasminogen activator activity were found in ascitic fluid than in plasma. In post-reinfusion much higher levels of all three Factor VIII components were observed in cirrhotic plasma than in normal plasma. In conclusion, activation of fibrinolysis could explain coagulation complications occurring after ascites reinfusion. Antifibrinolytic treatment could render the concentration-reinfusion technique more acceptable.

Reduced hemoglobin concentration and red cell hemoglobinization in Italian marathon and ultramarathon runners

Red blood cell indices, serum iron, and serum ferritin concentration were determined in 45 marathon runners, 56 ultramarathon runners, and 32 healthy sedentary controls. A significant reduction of hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, serum iron, and serum ferritin were found in marathon runners compared to control subjects. The same variables were also reduced, but to a lesser extent, in the less trained ultramarathon runners. The decreased hemoglobin concentration demonstrated in the runners examined is related to both a reduced mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and a reduced hematocrit and may depend on a reduction of the body iron stores.

The contact phase of blood coagulation and renin activation in essential hypertension before and after captopril

The contact phase of blood coagulation in a group of patients suffering from essential hypertension was studied before and after captopril administration. The baseline levels of factor XII, factor XI and plasminogen were significantly higher than in normals and correlated with baseline diastolic blood pressure levels. On the contrary, plasma prekallikrein was not significantly different from normal. These results suggest the presence of a hypercoagulable state in essential hypertension. After captopril administration, factor XII, factor XI and prekallikrein rapidly decreased, perhaps as a consequence of the drug's effect on the vascular endothelial surface. There was no correlation between the changes of active and inactive renin and the changes of prekallikrein and plasminogen levels. Our data do not support the view that factor XII-plasma kallikrein or plasmin dependent pathways are involved in the activation of inactive renin in vivo. Captopril, by provoking rapid pressure changes, appears to be able to affect the clotting system.

Allele specific, gene unspecific suppressors in Aspergillus nidulans

Seven suppressor mutations have been isolated in Aspergillus nidulans by coreversion of alleles in physiologically unrelated genes namely, alX, sB, alcA, putative structural genes for allantoinase, sulphate permease and alcohol dehydrogenase respectively. The suppressors are allele specific, gene unspecific. Those described map in four loci, suaA, B, C, D. suaA and suaB are on linkage group III, suaC and suaD on VII. suaB111, suaD103 and suaD108 are semi-dominant in their suppression of alX4 and sB43, suaA101, suaA105 and suaC10. are recessive and have a pleiotropic effect on morphology. SuaC109 is cold sensitive for growth as is sua115, an unmapped mutation on linkage group III which is similar in morphology to suaC109. The two mutations, suaA101 and suaA105 have different spectra of suppression and morphologies. suaA105 weakly suppresses alX4 and sB43 whereas suaA101 strongly suppresses these and alcA125. suaD103 and suaD108 have the same spectrum of suppression. The properties of these suppressors are consistent with their being informational suppressors are consistent with their being informational suppressors of the nonsense type.