A case of mistaken identity: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and reinvestigation of hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. infection in Ctenocephalides felis (cat flea)

BACKGROUND

Feline-associated hemotropic Mycoplasma (hemoplasmas) are believed to be transmitted by two primary mechanisms: (1) direct transmission via fighting and (2) vector-borne transmission by the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). While the efficiency of transmission by C. felis appears low, most manuscripts focus on the prevalence of hemoplasmas in wild-caught fleas and report either a very low (< 3%) or a high (> 26%) prevalence. Therefore, we aimed to assess the influence of sample processing and PCR methods on C. felis hemoplasma infection prevalence.

METHODS

A systemic review of PubMed articles identified 13 manuscripts (1,531 fleas/flea pools) that met the inclusion criteria (performed PCR for >1 hemoplasma on C. felis collected from cats). Risk of bias was assessed utilizing the ROBINS-E tool. Meta-analysis performed in R of these manuscripts found that not washing samples and a common set of 16S rRNA primers first published in Jensen et al. 2001 were associated with increased hemoplasma prevalence. To evaluate the influence of washing on newly collected fleas, we assessed the hemoplasma status of 20 pools of 5 C. felis each, half of which were washed and half not washed.

RESULTS

Flea washing did not influence the detection of hemoplasma but instead amplified Spiroplasma. To assess non-specific amplification with the Jensen et al. 2001 primers, 67 C. felis samples (34% previously reported hemoplasma infected) were subject to PCR and sequencing. By this method, hemoplasma was detected in only 3% of samples. In the remaining "hemoplasma infected" fleas, PCR amplified Spiroplasma or other bacteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, we concluded that hemoplasma infection in C. felis is rare, and future flea prevalence studies should sequence all positive amplicons to validate PCR specificity. Further investigation of alternative methods of feline-associated hemoplasma transmission and the ability of C. felis to maintain hemoplasma infection is necessary.

Effects of canine influenza infection and DA2PP vaccination on the development of platelet-associated immunoglobulins and platelet counts in dogs

BACKGROUND

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is commonly associated with platelet-associated immunoglobulins (PAIg). Demonstration of PAIg can help determine etiologies for thrombocytopenia. In humans, ITP and thrombocytopenia have been associated with various vaccinations and influenza infections, respectively.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate platelet counts and PAIg in research dogs with H3N2 and in research and client-owned dogs routinely vaccinated for distemper, adenovirus-2, parainfluenza, and parvovirus (DA2PP). The hypotheses were that H3N2 infection but not DA2PP vaccination would decrease platelet counts, and neither would result in the detection of PAIg.

METHODS

Three pilot studies. Platelet counts and PAIg, measured by direct flow cytometry as %IgG, were evaluated in eight research Beagles following experimental infection with H3N2 (experiment 1), nine research Beagles vaccinated for DA2PP (experiment 2), and thirty client-owned dogs vaccinated for DA2PP (experiment 3). All animals were considered healthy at the start of the experiments.

RESULTS

Transient, self-resolving decreases in platelet counts and increases in %IgG occurred following H3N2 infection, and one dog became thrombocytopenic and positive for PAIg. Following DA2PP vaccination, %IgG increased in research and client-owned dogs, but only one dog was considered positive for PAIg with a concurrent increase in platelet count. Mean PAIg increased from baseline in client-owned dogs following vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

Transient PAIg and thrombocytopenia can occur following H3N2 infection, while routine vaccination for DA2PP in this group of dogs was not associated with the development of thrombocytopenia or clinically relevant formation of PAIg.

Total thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone responses of healthy cats to different doses of thyrotropin-releasing hormone

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation can be used as a test of thyroid function and pituitary thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone, TSH) reserve, but optimal stimulation testing protocols in cats are unreported. We randomly divided 6 healthy young adult cats into 3 groups of 2 and administered 3 different intravenous doses of TRH (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg/kg) at weekly intervals in our crossover study. Serum TSH and thyroxine (T4) concentrations were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay before, and at 30 and 60 min after, TRH administration. All cats were monitored for 4 h post-TRH administration for side effects. All 3 TRH doses induced significant TSH (0.01 mg/kg, p = 0.001; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.002; 0.1 mg/kg, p = 0.006) and total T4 (0.01 mg/kg, p = 0.008; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.006; 0.1 mg/kg, p = 0.001) responses. Lower TRH doses (0.01 and 0.05 mg/kg) caused fewer side effects (1 of 6 cats) than did the highest dose (3 of 6 cats), and may be safer in cats than the previously reported higher dose (0.1 mg/kg) of TRH. Our results do not support the use of maropitant to prevent side effects of a TRH stimulation test in cats.

Carpal Tunnel Release With Ultrasound Guidance: Intermediate-Term Clinical Outcomes and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to report intermediate-term outcomes following carpal tunnel release using ultrasound guidance and wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet, including a subset of patients with preoperative and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

In this observational study, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were treated with carpal tunnel release using ultrasound guidance and wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet in a procedure room at a single center. Main outcomes were complications; return to activity and work at 2 weeks; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire scores through 6 months; and postoperative morphological changes of the transverse carpal ligament, median nerve, and carpal tunnel evaluated using MRI.

Results

No complications were reported among 65 patients (68% women, 96 wrists). By 2 weeks, 97% of patients returned to normal activity and 100% returned to work. Statistically significant improvements in Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire symptom severity scale, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire functional status scale, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores occurred by the 2-week follow-up interval and persisted at 6 months (all P < .001). Pre- and postoperative MRI scans were available for 13 patients (17 wrists) at the 3-month mean follow-up. Complete transverse carpal ligament transection was documented in all wrists. Key MRI findings included a 22% increase in carpal tunnel cross-sectional area at the hamate (P < .001), a 52% increase in median nerve cross-sectional area at the hamate (P < .001), an 18% reduction in median nerve signal intensity (P = .002), a 38% reduction in the flattening ratio of the median nerve at the hamate (P < .001), a 33% reduction in the flattening ratio of the median nerve at the pisiform (P < .001), a 20% reduction in the flattening ratio of the carpal tunnel at the hamate (P < .001), and a palmar shift of the median nerve relative to the hamate in all cases.

Conclusions

Carpal tunnel release using ultrasound guidance using wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet in a procedure room setting was safe, effective, and resulted in morphological changes that were consistent with carpal tunnel decompression as demonstrated by MRI.

Type of study/level of evidence

Therapeutic IV.

Nanoparticle ocular immunotherapy for herpesvirus surface eye infections evaluated in cat infection model

Ocular herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) infections can trigger conjunctivitis, keratitis, uveitis, and occasionally retinitis, and is a major cause of blindness worldwide. The infections are lifelong and can often recrudesce during periods of stress or immune suppression. Currently HSV-1 infections of the eye are managed primarily with anti-viral eye drops, which require frequent administration, can cause irritation, and may take weeks for full resolution of symptoms. We therefore evaluated the effectiveness of an ocular immune activating nanoparticle eye drop as a novel approach to treating HSV-1 infection, using a cat feline herpesvirus -1 (FHV-1) ocular infection model. In vitro studies demonstrated significant induction of both type I and II interferon responses by the liposome-dual TLR 3/9 agonist nanoparticles, along with suppression of FHV-1 replication. In cats with naturally occurring eye infections either proven or suspected to involve FHV-1, ocular nanoparticle treated animals experienced resolution of signs within several days of treatment, including resolution of keratitis and corneal ulcers. In a cat model of recrudescent FHV-1 infection, cats treated twice daily with immune nanoparticle eye drops experienced significant lessening of ocular signs of infection and significantly fewer episodes of viral shedding compared to control cats. Treatment was well-tolerated by all cats, without signs of drug-induced ocular irritation. We concluded therefore that non-specific ocular immunotherapy offers significant promise as a novel approach to treatment of HSV-1 and FHV-1 ocular infections.

Patient Response to Receiving a Notification of Elevated Breast Cancer Risk after Regular Screening Mammogram

Background: Population-based screening for breast cancer risk can identify unaffected women at elevated risk and inform them of risk-management options. The James Cancer Hospital recently began assessing risk for women undergoing routine screening mammography. Women found to have ≥20% lifetime risk are notified – with their mammogram results via mail and electronic medical record – that they may be at elevated risk of breast cancer and should consider consulting a high-risk provider. This initial study examined findings from a subsample who participated 2–6 weeks post-notification. Purpose: We sought to determine whether women noticed and understood the notification, and to examine their reactions to the notification of elevated risk. Methods: Of 415 women recruited, 150 (36%) completed the survey, which included items to assess memory and comprehension of the notification, and whether participants had (a) seen a healthcare provider since the notification, and (b) discussed breast cancer risk and management options during that appointment. Results: Participants (aged 40–69; mean = 50.8 years) were mostly White (86%), well-educated (77%), and with above-average income (65%). Most remembered receiving the notification (73%), perceived the information not to be complex (73%), and were confident they understood the notification (93%). Somewhat fewer (64%) remembered that the notification indicated they may be at elevated risk for breast cancer, and 44% also recalled the suggestion to meet with a healthcare provider about this risk. Of the 28 participants who had already seen any healthcare provider in the few weeks since the notification, 50% discussed breast cancer risk during that appointment and 25% said they did so because of the notification. Discussions included family cancer history, actual risk of developing breast cancer, and options for additional imaging or testing. Conclusions: These findings indicate that population-based screening associated with routine mammography can motivate women at elevated breast cancer risk to discuss their risk and management options with a healthcare provider. For some proportion of women, however, complementary communication strategies may also be needed to ensure they gain awareness of their higher-risk status.

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration and infectious respiratory disease complex in shelter dogs

Background

Hypovitaminosis D is a risk factor for the development of respiratory infections in humans and repletion can be protective.

Objectives

Determine if serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin (OH)D concentrations are lower in shelter dogs and if 25(OH)D concentrations are associated with clinical signs of canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) or with time in the shelter.

Animals

One hundred forty‐six shelter dogs (clinically ill n = 36, apparently healthy n = 110) and 23 nonshelter control dogs.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Shelter dogs were grouped as clinically ill or apparently healthy based on the presence or absence, respectively, of clinical signs associated with CIRDC. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were measured with a competitive chemiluminesence immunoassay. Nucleic acids of agents associated with the CIRDC were amplified by polymerase chain reaction assays.

Results

The concentration of 25(OH)D was 7.3 ng/mL (4.5‐9.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]) lower in dogs with signs of CIRDC than apparently healthy shelter dogs (t(142) = 2.0, P = .04). Dogs positive for DNA of canine herpesvirus (CHV)‐1 had serum 25(OH)D concentrations 14.9 ng/mL (−3.7 to 29.6, 95% CI) lower than dogs that were negative (t(137) = 2.0, P = .04). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations in shelter dogs were not different from control dogs (t(45) = −1.4, P = .17). Serum 25(OH)D concentration was not associated with duration of time in the shelter (F(1, 140) = 1.7, P = .2, R² = 0.01).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Vitamin D could have a role in acute respiratory tract infections in shelter dogs.

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Owned Domestic Cats in Australia

Ongoing surveillance of Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence and exposure risks in owned cats is important to identify effective mechanisms to decrease the prevalence of this global zoonotic parasite. We aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and risk factors for seropositivity in owned domestic cats in Australia. Sera, signalment data, postcode, and completed owner-questionnaires surveying diet composition and lifestyle factors were collected for cats presenting to 18 veterinary clinics across Australia. T. gondii-specific IgG was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression to evaluate risk factors associated with positive T. gondii IgG serology. Among 417 cats, T. gondii seroprevalence was 39%. More than two-thirds of cats tested (69%) had outdoor access and 59% were fed a diet containing raw meat. Univariable analyses identified, age (>1 year, p < 0.001), a diet containing any raw meat (p = 0.001), raw kangaroo (p = 0.008), raw chicken (p = 0.012), or raw beef (p = 0.017), and hunting (p = 0.049) as risk factors for T. gondii infection. Age (>1 year, odds ratio [OR]: 7.15) and feeding of raw meat (OR: 2.23) remained significant risk factors (p < 0.001) in multivariable analyses. T. gondii seroprevalence did not differ between cats domiciled in urban and semiurban or rural areas. Pet cats in Australia are commonly infected with T. gondii. Feeding raw meat to cats, a common practice in Australia, is associated with T. gondii infection, highlighting the need for education about the health implications for cats from feeding a diet containing raw meat.

Evaluation of liposome toll-like receptor ligand complexes for non-specific mucosal immunoprotection from feline herpesvirus-1 infection

Background

Feline herpesvirus‐1 (FHV‐1) infection can result in serious morbidity and mortality, especially in kittens. Immunotherapy using liposome‐toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligand complexes (LTC) has been shown to activate innate immune responses.

Objectives

To determine in kittens whether mucosal administration of LTC before FHV‐1 inoculation would decrease severity of clinical signs and decrease quantities of FHV‐1 DNA in materials collected on oropharyngeal swabs.

Animals

Nineteen, 14‐week‐old, purpose‐bred kittens.

Methods

Pilot clinical trial with 2 groups of kittens allocated to either an LTC or control group. The LTC were administered into both nares and the oropharynx of the 12 LTC group kittens, and all 19 kittens were inoculated with FHV‐1 24 hours later. Clinical scores were determined daily for 28 days, and oropharyngeal mucosal materials were collected every 7 days to assess FHV‐1 DNA quantities for comparison between groups.

Results

Conjunctivitis was more common in kittens in the control group on Days 15‐28 (P = .01) and Days 1‐28 (P = .02). Total respiratory scores were higher in the LTC group on days 15‐28 (P = .03). The LTC group had significantly decreased FHV‐1 DNA on swabs when compared to the control group on some postinoculation days, using 2 methods of calculation.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Administration of LTC to kittens was shown to decrease FHV‐1 DNA and some manifestations of illness in kittens when administrated 24 hours before inoculation, suggesting clinical benefit.

Amplification of Mycoplasma haemofelis DNA by a PCR for point-of-care use

We compared a qualitative in-clinic (IC)-PCR for the detection of Mycoplasma haemofelis DNA with the results of a commercial qualitative laboratory-based, conventional (c)PCR. In order to determine the specificity of both tests, Bartonella spp. samples were included. Forty-three previously tested blood samples with known PCR results for hemoplasmas and Bartonella spp. were selected. The samples were split between 2 laboratories. At the first laboratory, DNA was purified and run on 2 cPCR assays for the detection of hemoplasmas and Bartonella spp. At the second laboratory, DNA was purified using 2 purification protocols and both run in the IC-PCR assay. The cPCR results confirmed that 18 samples were positive for M. haemofelis, 5 for ' Candidatus M. haemominutum', 8 for Bartonella henselae, 2 for Bartonella clarridgeiae, and 10 were negative for both genera. No mixed infections were observed. The IC-PCR assay for the detection of M. haemofelis had a sensitivity of 94.4% and specificity of 96%, when using the same DNA purification method as the first laboratory. Using the second purification method, the sensitivity of the IC-PCR assay was 77.8% and specificity was 96%. Bartonella species were not detected by the IC-PCR M. haemofelis assay. The IC-PCR assay decreased the amount of time to final result compared to a cPCR assay.

BILL E. KUNKLE INTERDISCIPLINARY BEEF SYMPOSIUM: A meta-analysis of research efforts aimed at reducing the impact of fescue toxicosis on cattle weight gain and feed intake

The objective of this paper is to present a systematic review and meta-analysis of research efforts aimed at recovering cattle production losses attributed to toxic endophyte-infected [ (Morgan-Jones & Gams.) Glenn, Bacon, & Hanlin comb. Nov.] tall fescue [ (Schreb.) Darbysh.]. The strategies presented include those 1) applied with forage systems, 2) based on pharmacological compounds and functional foods, and 3) based on supplemental dietary nutrients. Cattle BW gain and DM intake was the dependent response evaluated. Among the forage systems reviewed, studies with nontoxic, endophyte-infected tall fescue as a total replacement forage system demonstrated the greatest improvement in per-hectare (152 ± 27.5 kg/ha) and per-animal (0.29 ± 0.03 kg/d) BW gain. Studies with interseeded legumes have exhibited a small and highly variable BW gain effect size per hectare (52 ± 24.1 kg/ha) and per animal (0.11 ± 0.03 kg/d). The legume response was seasonal, with summer exhibiting the greatest benefit. Studies with chemicals that suppress plant growth demonstrated BW gain responses (0.17 ± 0.06 kg/d) equal to or greater than the response observed with legume studies. Cattle grazing toxic tall fescue responded well to anthelmentics, antimicrobial feed additives, and steroid implants, and the use of these technologies may additively help recover production losses. As a group, functional foods have not improved BW gain ( = 0.85). Studies with cattle supplemented with highly digestible fiber supplements observed a 0.15 kg greater BW gain compared with studies using starch- and sugar-based supplements ( < 0.05). Weight gain was positively impacted by the level of supplementation (0.06 kg/DM intake as percent BW). Supplement feed conversion was estimated at 6:1 for the highly digestible fiber supplements compared with 11:1 for starch-based supplements. Tall fescue forage DM intake was predicted to maximize at a supplemental feeding rate of 0.24% BW with a breakpoint at 0.5% BW, and total maximum DM intake (forage plus supplement) occurred at 2.7% BW when supplemental feeding approached 0.9% BW. Results from this meta-analysis should be useful for 1) establishing and comparing measured responses to theoretical improvements in BW gain when additive strategies are considered, 2) research planning, and 3) producer education.

Prevalence of selected infectious disease agents in stray cats in Catalonia, Spain

Objectives

The objective of the current study was to investigate the prevalence rates of the following infectious agents in 116 stray cats in the Barcelona area of Spain: Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Bartonella species, Borrelia burgdorferi, Chlamydia felis, Dirofilaria immitis, Ehrlichia species, feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), haemoplasmas, Mycoplasma species and Rickettsia species.

Methods

Serum antibodies were used to estimate the prevalence of exposure to A phagocytophilum, Bartonella species, B burgdorferi, Ehrlichia species and FIV; serum antigens were used to assess for infection by D immitis and FeLV; and molecular assays were used to amplify nucleic acids of Anaplasma species, Bartonella species, C felis, D immitis, Ehrlichia species, FCV, FHV-1, haemoplasmas, Mycoplasma species and Rickettsia species from blood and nasal or oral swabs.

Results

Of the 116 cats, 63 (54.3%) had evidence of infection by Bartonella species, FeLV, FIV or a haemoplasma. Anaplasma species, Ehrlichia species or Rickettsia species DNA was not amplified from these cats. A total of 18/116 cats (15.5%) were positive for FCV RNA (six cats), Mycoplasma species DNA (six cats), FHV-1 DNA (three cats) or C felis DNA (three cats).

Conclusions and relevance

This study documents that shelter cats in Catalonia are exposed to many infectious agents with clinical and zoonotic significance, and that flea control is indicated for cats in the region.

Pilot study to evaluate the role of Mycoplasma species in cat bite abscesses

Mycoplasma species are common inhabitants of the feline oral cavity, and so likely contaminate many cat bite abscesses. The objectives of this study were to determine whether Mycoplasma species are common contaminants of cat bite abscesses and whether they are are associated with β-lactam-resistant clinical disease. Twenty-six privately owned cats with clinical evidence of an abscess suspected to be from a cat bite were included in the study. Samples from each cat were evaluated by aerobic and anaerobic culture, as well as Mycoplasma species culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All cats were initially treated with appropriate wound management and were administered an antibiotic of the β-lactam class (amoxicillin, amoxicillin clavulanate or cefovecin sodium). Mycoplasma species DNA was amplified by PCR from 4/26 samples (15.4%); one of these cases was concurrently culture positive. Adequate DNA for sequencing was present for 2/4 positive PCR samples; one was most homologous with Mycoplasma felis, and the other was most homologous with Mycoplasma equigenitalium and Mycoplasma elephantis. Of the 26 cats, 25 responded to the initial treatment by day 7. The cat that failed initial treatment was positive for M equigenitalium or M elephantis DNA on days 0 and 12, and ultimately responded to administration of enrofloxacin and clindamycin. The results suggest that while Mycoplasma species can contaminate cat bite abscesses, routine wound management and β-lactam antibiotic therapy is adequate for treatment in most cases of abscess. However, as Mycoplasma species infections do not respond to β-lactam class antibiotic therapy, these organisms should be on the differential list for cats with abscesses that fail treatment with this antibiotic class.

Pharmacogenetic characterization of indacaterol, a novel beta 2-adrenoceptor agonist

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Indacaterol is a novel beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist in development for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the comparative pharmacology of indacaterol in recombinant cells expressing the common polymorphic variants of the human beta(2)-adrenoceptor and in human primary airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Chinese hamster ovarian-K1 cell lines expressing high and low levels of the common human beta(2)-adrenoceptor variants were generated [Gly16-Glu27-Val34-Thr164(GEVT), RQVT, GQVT] and also the rare GQVI variant. Human primary ASM cells were isolated from explants of trachealis muscle. Adenosine-3',5'-cyclic-monophosphate production was used as an outcome measure.

KEY RESULTS

In both the low- and high-expression recombinant GEVT 'wild type' cell lines indacaterol is a high-efficacy agonist. Salmeterol and formoterol were identified as low- and high-efficacy agonists, respectively, and showed similar potencies to indacaterol irrespective of the beta(2)-adrenoceptor genotype. The I164 variant cell line was associated with a reduced capacity to generate adenosine-3',5'-cyclic-monophosphate in response to beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist. In the human primary ASM cells indacaterol gave a maximal response intermediate between that of salmeterol and formoterol.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These data demonstrate that indacaterol is a high-efficacy agonist in recombinant cell systems but acts with lower efficacy in human primary ASM cells. No marked genotype-dependent effects were observed for common variants; however, changes in I164 receptor activity were identified, which were dependent on the level of expression of beta(2)-adrenoceptors.

Feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1, and feline calicivirus antibody responses in seronegative specific pathogen-free cats after a single administration of two different modified live FVRCP vaccines

Two groups of feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) seronegative cats (five cats per group) were administered one of two modified live feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia virus (FVRCP) vaccines and the serological responses to each agent were followed over 28 days. While all cats developed detectable FPV and FCV antibody titers; only two cats developed detectable FHV-1 antibody titers using the criteria described by the testing laboratory. For FPV and FHV-1, there were no differences in seroconversion rates between the cats that were administered the intranasal (IN) FVRCP vaccine and the cats that were administered the parenteral FVRCP vaccine on any day post-inoculation. For FCV, the cats that were administered the IN FVRCP vaccine were more likely to seroconvert on days 10 and 14 when compared to cats that were administered the parenteral FVRCP vaccine.

Evaluation of the association of Bartonella species, feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus, feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus with chronic feline gingivostomatitis

Gingivostomatitis (GS) is a significant condition in cats because of oral discomfort and associated periodontal disease. Several infectious agents have been associated with the presence of GS, but a causal relationship is unclear. The cats in this study were housed together, had a history of flea exposure, and were vaccinated with a modified live FVRCP product. There were nine cats with active GS and 36 unaffected cats at the time of sample collection. Serum was tested for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) antigen and antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus, feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), and Bartonella species (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot immunoassay). PCR assays for Bartonella species and FHV-1 and a reverse transcriptase PCR assay for FCV were performed on blood and throat swabs. All cats were negative for FeLV. Assay results failed to correlate to the presence of GS in the group of cats studied.

Endurance training of trained athletes-an electromyogram study

Little is known about the mechanism that improves the capabilities of athletes by high, intensity interval training (HIT). This study was conducted to determine the neurophysiological changes due to HIT. Changes in surface electromyography (SEMG) in well-trained endurance cyclists due to the training were identified. Seven subjects (maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max] 64.6 &#177;4.8 ml.kg-1.min-1, mean &#177; SD) undertook a 3 week training intervention, replacing &#8764; 15% of their weekly endurance training with 6 sessions of laboratory-based HIT (8 &#215; 5 min work bouts at 82% of PPO [&#8764;85% VO2max], with 60 sec active recovery at 100 W). SEMG was used to assess neuromuscular changes before and after the 3 wk training program. During the first and sixth training session, SEMG was recorded. To determine the effects of the HIT program on performance, subjects performed a 40 km time trial (TT40) before and after the training intervention. The frequency of SEMG is a measure of the muscle fatigue and hence was used to identify the variation of the signal properties. Three weeks of intensified training decreased the mean power frequency of the SEMG signal during the latter stages of HIT (interval seven) 50.2 &#177; 5.1 to 47.5 &#177; 4.2 Hz (P < 0.05). The preliminary conclusions of these experiments suggest that high-intensity interval training enhanced endurance performance and reduced the fatiguing of the muscles. It is suggested that this was possibly due to recruitment of addition slow-twitch motor units.

Prevalence of Bartonella species, haemoplasma species, Ehrlichia species, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Neorickettsia risticii DNA in the blood of cats and their fleas in the United States

Ctenocephalides felis were killed and collected from 92 cats in Alabama, Maryland, and Texas. The fleas and blood from the corresponding cat were digested and assessed in polymerase chain reaction assays that amplify DNA of Ehrlichia species, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Neorickettsia risticii, Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus M haemominutum' and Bartonella species. DNA consistent with B henselae, B clarridgeiae, M haemofelis, or 'Candidatus M haemominutum' was commonly amplified from cats (60.9%) and their fleas (65.2%). Results of this study support the recommendation to maintain flea control on cats in endemic areas.

Strategies to identify changes in SEMG due to muscle fatigue during cycling

Detection, quantification and analysis of muscle fatigue is crucial in occupational/rehabilitation and sporting settings. Sports organizations such as Australian Institute of Sports (AIS) currently monitor fatigue by a battery of tests including invasive techniques that require taking blood samples and/or muscle biopsies, the latter of which is highly invasive, painful, time consuming and expensive. SEMG is non-invasive monitoring of the muscle activation and is an indication of localized muscle fatigue based on the observed shift of the power spectral density of the SEMG. But the success of SEMG based techniques is currently limited to isometric contraction and is not acceptable to the human movement community. This paper proposes and tests a simple signal processing technique to identify the onset of muscle fatigue during cyclic activities of muscles such as VL and VM during cycling. Based on experiments conducted with 7 participants, using power output as a measure of fatigue, the technique is able to identify the muscle fatigue with 98% significance.

Under pressure: treating cardiac tamponade. Identify this potentially fatal complication early and intervene appropriately

A detailed look at the development and treatment of cardiac tamponade.

Assessment of insecticide resistance after the outbreak of diamondback moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) in California in 1997

During an outbreak of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), in California in 1997, nine populations were collected from the major broccoli areas throughout the state. Populations were assayed for their susceptibility to currently used materials (Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, permethrin, and methomyl) and to newer materials that had not yet been commercially used in California (spinosad, emamectin benzoate, and chlorfenapyr). For the currently used insecticides, elevated levels of resistance were seen only with permethrin and seven of the nine populations had tolerance ratios (TR) of > 100. With the newer chemistries, TR values were all < 15. To compare potential cross-tolerance, TR values of the currently used insecticides were compared with TR values of the newer insecticides. There were significant relationships found between: methomyl and emamectin benzoate, methomyl and spinosad, and permethrin and spinosad. Further biochemical studies are needed to confirm the actual mechanisms that lead to these relationships and field tests are needed to determine what impact, if any, such TR levels would have on control in the field. These data indicate that resistance to at least one of the commonly used insecticides (permethrin) may have played a role in the outbreak during 1997. However, other factors may have been at least equally important. The winter of 1996-1997 was warmer than normal, and during the period from February through August of 1997 the amount of rainfall was < 50% of normal. Hot and dry conditions are known to be conducive to outbreaks of P. xylostella. These data add to an overall knowledge about the geographic variation of resistance in P. xylostella populations within the United States. They also serve as a baseline for monitoring changes in susceptibility to these newer insecticides and can also help explain the occurrence of outbreaks caused by factors other than insecticide resistance.

Regulation of IgM and IgD heavy chain gene expression: effect of abrogation of intergenic transcriptional termination

Early IgM+ B cells express little or no membrane IgD due to the low abundance of delta mRNA. Extensive transcriptional termination regulated by sequences in the intronic region between mu and delta heavy chain genes may be the primary reason for the lack of delta gene transcription. We have examined the effect of deletion of these sequences on the regulation of IgM and IgD heavy chain gene expression in transfectants as well as mice carrying this otherwise intact transgene. By run-on transcriptional measurement, we show that the delta exons are transcribed in bone marrow B cells from these transgenic mice. However, in spite of the induced premature synthesis of the full-length mu-delta transcript in pre-B cells, processing to delta mRNA does not occur until the lymphocytes express cell surface IgM. Therefore, during B cell development, synthesis of the full-length transcript is a necessary but not sufficient condition for initiation of delta mRNA synthesis. Furthermore, unexpectedly, the abrogation of transcriptional termination was found to also affect the processing of the primary transcript to microM mRNA. These results show that expression of IgD in primary B cells is stringently regulated and closely linked to IgM expression.

Regulation of IgM and IgD heavy chain gene expression: effect of abrogation of intergenic transcriptional termination

Early IgM+ B cells express little or no membrane IgD due to the low abundance of delta mRNA. Extensive transcriptional termination regulated by sequences in the intronic region between mu and delta heavy chain genes may be the primary reason for the lack of delta gene transcription. We have examined the effect of deletion of these sequences on the regulation of IgM and IgD heavy chain gene expression in transfectants as well as mice carrying this otherwise intact transgene. By run-on transcriptional measurement, we show that the delta exons are transcribed in bone marrow B cells from these transgenic mice. However, in spite of the induced premature synthesis of the full-length mu-delta transcript in pre-B cells, processing to delta mRNA does not occur until the lymphocytes express cell surface IgM. Therefore, during B cell development, synthesis of the full-length transcript is a necessary but not sufficient condition for initiation of delta mRNA synthesis. Furthermore, unexpectedly, the abrogation of transcriptional termination was found to also affect the processing of the primary transcript to microM mRNA. These results show that expression of IgD in primary B cells is stringently regulated and closely linked to IgM expression.

Pregnancies following high-dose cyclophosphamide with or without high-dose busulfan or total-body irradiation and bone marrow transplantation

Patients successfully treated with a marrow transplant often have concerns about fertility and pregnancy. This study was performed to determine pregnancy outcome among patients who had received high-dose chemotherapy alone or with total-body irradiation (TBI) and marrow transplantation for aplastic anemia or hematologic malignancy. Records of 1,326 postpubertal and 196 prepubertal patients currently more than 12 years of age after marrow transplant in Seattle from August 1971 to January 1992 were reviewed to determine the patients with normal gonadal function and pregnancies. Among 708 postpubertal women, 110 recovered normal ovarian function and 32 became pregnant. In addition, nine formerly prepubertal girls with normal gonadal function became pregnant. Among 618 postpubertal men, 157 recovered testicular function and partners of 33 became pregnant. An additional two formerly prepubertal men had partners who became pregnant. Forty-one female patients and partners of 35 male patients had 146 pregnancies after transplant. All 76 patients responded to a questionnaire requesting pregnancy history, outcome, infant birth weight, and congenital anomalies information for all clinically recognized pregnancies. There were 115 live births among 146 (79%) pregnancies. Spontaneous abortion terminated four of 56 (7%) pregnancies for 28 female cyclophosphamide (CY) recipients and six of 16 (37%) pregnancies for 13 TBI recipients (P = .02). Partners of 28 male CY recipients had four of 62 (6.4%) pregnancies terminate with spontaneous abortion, but there were no spontaneous abortions among eight pregnancies of five TBI recipients' partners. Preterm delivery occurred for eight of 44 (18%) and five of eight (63%) live births for 24 CY and eight TBI female recipients (P = .01). This 25% incidence among all female patient pregnancies is higher than the expected incidence of 8% to 10% (P = .0001). The 13 preterm deliveries resulted in 10 low birth weight ([LBW] 1.8 to 2.24 kg) and three very low birth weight ([VLBW] < or = 1.36 kg) infants, for an overall incidence of 25%, which is higher than the expected incidence of 6.5% for the general population (P = .0001). Twelve of the 13 premature infants survive. Congenital anomalies were seen among two of 52 (3.8%) live-born infants of female and six of 63 (9.5%) live-born infants of male patients, which is not different from the 13% of single congenital anomalies reported for the general population. These data demonstrate that clinically recognized pregnancies among women who have received a marrow transplant incorporating TBI are likely to be accompanied by an increased risk of spontaneous abortion. Pregnancies among all women who received a marrow transplant are likely to be accompanied by preterm labor and delivery of LBW or VLBW babies who do not seem to be at an increased risk of congenital anomalies. However, determination of possible adverse effects of parental exposure to high-dose alkylating agents with or without TBI on children born posttransplant requires longer, additional follow-up.

A randomized trial of two preparations of vaginal prostaglandin for pre-induction cervical ripening

OBJECTIVE

To compare two prostaglandin (PG) E2 preparations for pre-induction cervical ripening in a randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Two milligrams of vaginal PGE2 gel was compared with a vaginal PGE2 3-mg tablet in 200 nulliparous women. Outcomes assessed were induction failure, need for labor augmentation, pain relief requirements, fetal heart rate (FHR) abnormalities, operative delivery rate, induction-to-delivery interval, neonatal condition, and occurrence of uterine hyperstimulation.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference in pre- and post-dose cervical scores. Compared with the tablet group, women in the gel group were more likely to have significant FHR abnormalities in early labor (odds ratio [OR] 4.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15-19.5) requiring cesarean delivery. Fetal heart rate tracings in the active phase of labor were also more likely to be abnormal in the gel group (chi 2 = 4.31, P < .05). Compared with the gel group, women in the tablet group were significantly more likely to require operative delivery for poor progress in labor (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.20-7.24). Other clinical outcomes were identical, with no significant differences in the overall rate of failed induction, cesarean delivery, rate of assisted delivery, requirement for oxytocin infusion, induction-to-delivery interval, pain relief requirements, or neonatal condition.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with the PGE2 tablet, the use of PGE2 gel for cervical ripening and labor induction in nulliparous women did not result in significant improvements in labor outcome. Whereas the gel was associated with an increase in significant FHR abnormalities, the tablet was associated with an increase in the rate of operative delivery for poor progress in labor.

Role of the OCTA site in regulation of IgH chain gene transcription during B cell activation

We have evaluated the importance of the OCTA site in both the promoter and enhancer regions for the induction of enhancement of IgH chain gene transcription after B cell activation. These studies show that although occupancy of the OCTA site in the promoter is critical for basal transcription of the mu gene, it is not necessary for the increase in transcription induced by in vivo activation. On the other hand, the OCTA site in the enhancer is necessary for neither basal transcription nor in vivo activation of transcription; however, occupancy of this site is required for further up-regulation in transcription of the mu gene in pre-activated cells. These results indicate that different mechanisms may be involved in the activation of resting versus in vivo stimulated B lymphocytes. The findings are discussed in relation to the phenotype described for Oct-2-deficient mice.

Distribution of receptors mediating phosphoinositide hydrolysis in cultured human umbilical artery smooth muscle and endothelial cells

Cultures of human umbilical artery smooth muscle and endothelial cells have been established and the effect of a range of calcium-mobilizing receptor agonists on inositol phospholipid hydrolysis has been compared in the two cell types. In human umbilical artery endothelial cells, histamine (EC50 20 microM), ATP (EC50 6.7 microM), sodium fluoride (20 mM) and thrombin (1 U/mL) produced marked increases in [3H]inositol phosphate accumulation. In contrast, bradykinin (1 microM), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (0.1 mM) and carbachol (1 mM) produced only a small (< 1% of the response to 1 mM histamine) effect on [3H]inositol phosphate accumulation in these cells. In human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells, histamine (EC50 16 microM), bradykinin (EC50 4.5 nM), 5-HT (EC50 0.7 microM) and carbachol (EC50 21 microM) produced substantial effects (> 20% of the response to 1 mM histamine) on inositol phospholipid hydrolysis while ATP (1 mM) and thrombin (1 U/mL) were much less effective. The response to histamine in both smooth muscle and endothelial cells was antagonized by 50 nM mepyramine (apparent Kd = 5.6 and 2.9 nM in the two cell types, respectively). The response to 5-HT in smooth muscle cells was antagonized by 50 nM ketanserin (apparent Kd = 4.5 nM). In human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells the inositol phosphate response to carbachol was antagonized by 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine (4-DAMP; pKd = 9.3), atropine (pKd = 9.7), pirenzepine (pKd = 6.7) and methoctramine (pKd = 6.9). These data are consistent with the involvement of an M3-muscarinic receptor in this response. These studies suggest that receptors mediating inositol phospholipid hydrolysis are differentially distributed between human umbilical artery endothelial and smooth muscle cells.

Role of differential mRNA stability in the regulated expression of IgM and IgD

The expression of IgM and IgD heavy chain mRNA in resting vs activated B cells offers a unique tool for the assessment of the effect of translation on mRNA stability because mu and delta mRNA have identical VDJ sequences but differ substantially in the rest of the molecule. We have shown that despite the 5' UTR identity that allows equal access to the translation machinery, mu mRNA has a significantly higher turnover rate than delta mRNA. However, the short t1/2 of mu mRNA increases significantly after B cell activation. Furthermore, the induction of microS mRNA after B cell activation provides yet another related molecule for comparison. Thus, despite the fact that microS and microM mRNA differ at their 3' ends, they have identical turnover rates in activated B cells. In addition, because the turnover rates of delta mRNA and beta 2 and GAPDH mRNA remain unchanged, these experiments suggest that B cell activation results in the induction of regulatory factor(s) that target specific sequences within mRNA-mu to confer greater stability. They also argue against a more passive regulation of mRNA stability that is a consequence of alterations in the secretory machinery.

Role of differential mRNA stability in the regulated expression of IgM and IgD

The expression of IgM and IgD heavy chain mRNA in resting vs activated B cells offers a unique tool for the assessment of the effect of translation on mRNA stability because mu and delta mRNA have identical VDJ sequences but differ substantially in the rest of the molecule. We have shown that despite the 5' UTR identity that allows equal access to the translation machinery, mu mRNA has a significantly higher turnover rate than delta mRNA. However, the short t1/2 of mu mRNA increases significantly after B cell activation. Furthermore, the induction of microS mRNA after B cell activation provides yet another related molecule for comparison. Thus, despite the fact that microS and microM mRNA differ at their 3' ends, they have identical turnover rates in activated B cells. In addition, because the turnover rates of delta mRNA and beta 2 and GAPDH mRNA remain unchanged, these experiments suggest that B cell activation results in the induction of regulatory factor(s) that target specific sequences within mRNA-mu to confer greater stability. They also argue against a more passive regulation of mRNA stability that is a consequence of alterations in the secretory machinery.

Bradykinin B2- and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT2)-receptor stimulated increases in intracellular calcium in cultured guinea-pig aortic smooth muscle cells

The effect of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and bradykinin on intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) has been studied in cultured guinea-pig aortic smooth muscle cells loaded with the Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescent dye fura-2. Bradykinin and 5-HT elicited rapid increases in [Ca2+]i with log EC50 values of -7.9 +/- 0.05 M (N = 3) and -6.1 +/- 0.1 M (N = 4), respectively. Both agonists stimulated the release of intracellular calcium (Ca2+ responses still present in the absence of extracellular calcium) and to a lesser extent Ca2+ influx (observed when extracellular calcium was re-applied to cells initially stimulated in nominally Ca(2+)-free buffer containing 0.1 mM EGTA). The B1-receptor antagonist des-Arg9,[Leu8]-bradykinin had no effect on calcium responses elicited 100 nM bradykinin, whereas the B2-receptor antagonist D-Arg[Hyp3,Thi5.8,D-Phe7]-bradykinin (10 microM) inhibited the response to 100 nM bradykinin by 43%. The bradykinin B2-receptor antagonist D-Arg[Hyp3,Thi5.8,D-Phe7]-bradykinin virtually abolished the response to 10 nM bradykinin (IC50 4 microM). No increase in [Ca2+]i was observed with the B1-receptor agonist des-Arg9-bradykinin (300 nM). The response to 5-HT (100 microM) was abolished by the 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ketanserin (IC50 = 2 +/- 0.4 nM; N = 3). These data suggest that in cultured guinea-pig aortic smooth muscle cells bradykinin B2- and 5-HT2-receptor activation stimulates the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and Ca2+ influx through Ca2+ entry pathways in the plasma membrane.

Investigation of the bleeding patterns of postmenopausal women treated with Estrapak-50

Diary cards of patients in two similar trials of Estrapak-50 hormone replacement therapy were analysed with regard to the characteristics of progestogen-associated bleeding (PAB) and breakthrough bleeding (BTB). Forty out of 52 patients in Study A and 74 out of 92 patients in Study B had diaries suitable for analysis. One patient in Study A and two patients in Study B who withdrew from treatment did so because of unacceptable bleeding problems. Similar results were obtained from both trials. After 6 months of treatment approximately 90% of patients in study A and approximately 70% of patients in study B had PAB on or before day 11. Twenty-seven percent and 49% in studies A and B, respectively, bled prior to day 8, which in the majority of instances affected one treatment cycle. Duration of PAB varied from 1 to 14 days (median 7 days) and the pattern of bleeding in the second cycle was predictive of bleeding in subsequent cycles. Although over 1/3 of women reported some heavy bleeding days, this usually only affected one treatment cycle, and the majority of bleeding was only spotting or light flow. BTB patterns did not raise suspicions of endometrial pathology. Bleeding patterns were both acceptable to patients and, in as much as the current literature indicates that bleeding patterns can be interpreted, were consistent with adequate progestogenic protection of the endometrium.

High-dose dietary myo-inositol supplementation does not alter the ischaemia phenomenon in human diabetics

Five diabetic patients and 3 non-diabetics were subjected to a dietary supplement of 20 g per day of myo-inositol (40 X the normal ingestion) for 14 days. This amount neither produced toxic side-effects nor changed the peripheral nervefunction expressed by motor conduction velocity or resistance to ischaemia.

A comparison study of dynamic visual acuity between athletes and nonathletes

A comparison study of dynamic visual acuity (DVA) was conducted using samples of nonathletic college students and college baseball players. The experimental population consisted of 17 male baseball players ranging in age from 19-24 years. The control population was made up of 25 male graduate students ranging in age from 23-29 years. Subjects reported the direction of a 20/25 "Landolt C" target exhibiting uniform angular motion produced by a projection system. Angular target velocities between 10 deg/sec and 110 deg/sec with an exposure time of 400 ms were used. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups' DVA. The mean DVA for the baseball players was 82.35 deg/sec and 69.90 deg/sec for the control group.