Temporal evolution of quality of life in patients endoscopically treated for sinonasal malignant tumors

BACKGROUND

The aim of our study is to assess which factors may affect the quality of life (QoL) and its fluctuation over time in adult patients who received endonasal endoscopic oncologic sinus surgery (EOSS) for sinonasal malignancies (SNM) in our center.

METHODOLOGY

We analyzed EOSS cases for primary SNM from January 2015 to June 2020. For each patient, we have recorded the age at treatment, gender, smoking habits, use of psychotropic drugs for mood disorders, stage, histotype, type of surgical resection, need for skull-base reconstruction, development of postoperative major complications, and the use of adjuvant intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). We evaluated the patient's performance status pre-treatment using the ECOG scale. Quality of life was measured using three questionnaires (SNOT-22; ASK-9; EORTC QLQ-C30 version 3).

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients were enrolled in our study, of whom thirty-two (58.18%) received adjuvant IMRT. Overall, a significant improvement in all QoL outcomes was observed at eighteen months, while, female sex, higher ECOG scores, advanced stage of disease, and adjuvant IMRT were associated with worse QoL. After 18 months the delta in QoL between women and men worsened (in SNOT-22 and EORTC QLQ-GLOBAL) while if only the most fragile patients according to ECOG are considered, this difference was reduced for both tools.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis revealed that IMRT is the element that has the greatest impact on patient's quality of life, in association with the female sex, ECOG >2, and advanced stage of the disease.

The Influence of Diabetes Mellitus on the Outcome of Superficial Femoral Artery Recanalization is Debatable

Notwithstanding technological improvements in endovascular devices treatment of steno-obstructive lesions of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) remains a challenge for today's vascular surgeon. Current opinion dictates that the diabetic population may have worse outcome after revascularization of the lower extremities. Herein we examine the effects of endovascular treatment on steno-obstructive lesions of the SFA in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was carried out on 110 patients who had undergone endovascular treatment of the SFA from 2010 to 2017 comparing outcomes in diabetic (DM) vs non-diabetic patients (nDM).

RESULTS

56 (50.9%) of the patients were diabetic and 54 were non-diabetic (49.1%). 52.7% (62.7% DM vs 35.2% nDM, p = 0.0003) were patients with critical limb ischemia. SFA occlusion was present in 65.5% (60.7% DM vs 70.4% nDM, p = 0.29) of all patients. All had undergone PTA of the SFA and 40.9% had received adjunctive stenting (44.6% DM vs 37.0% nDM, p = 0.41). A multilevel treatment was executed in 39.1% (51.8% DM vs 25.9% nDM) of the cases whereas an infra-popliteal procedure was associated in 27.3% (37.5% DM vs 16.7% nDM). In both groups the presence of diabetes was significantly associated (p = 0.005 e p = 0.014, respectively). Reintervention rate was 22.7%; 13 in the diabetic group (23.2%) and 12 in the non-diabetic group (22.2%). Of those who had had reintervention (p = 0.77); 9 patients (8.2%) had undergone an open surgical operation, 6 of whom had diabetes (p = 0.32). 5 patients (4.5%) had had major amputation, 4 of whom were diabetic (p = 0.20). Curves assessing freedom from target lesion restenosis were substantially overlapping between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

No statistical associations between diabetes and reintervention or amputation rates were found. Indication to treat the SFA were not influenced by the presence of diabetes but further investigation is required to verify our hypothesis.

P5400CD34+ cells predict long-term cardiovascular mortality in people with critical limb ischemia: a possible pathogenic role of the microRNA-21/PDCD4 axis

Background/Introduction

The annual rate of restenosis, amputation, and death of subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and critical limb ischemia (CLI) is very high even after successful revascularization. We have recently demonstrated that the in-vitro migratory ability of proangiogenic bone marrow (BM)-derived CD45dimKDR+CXCR4+ CD34+ cells predicts cardiovascular mortality at 18 months after percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) in people with T2DM and CLI.

Purpose

To verify the predictor at a longer follow-up time and to investigate the underpinning mechanism.

Methods

We analyzed the rate of cardiovascular mortality in the previously studied cohort of 119 subjects at a six-year follow-up. In addition, we compared apoptosis and angiogenic capability of MAC-sorted BM-CD34+ cells in a newly-recruited series of patients with T2DM and CLI and control nondiabetic subjects (CTRL). Following the screening of a spectrum of microRNA (miR) using PCR-based Exiqon technology, we validated the modulated miRs in BM-CD34+ cells from 6 new donors per group. Finally, we focused on miR-21 and its inhibitory targets, by assessing the effect of miR-21 modulation of functional outcomes, including apoptosis (caspase assay and Annexin V positive staining) and the induction of in-vitro endothelial networking on Matrigel.

Results

Multivariable regression model analysis confirmed that CD34+ cell migration forecasts cardiovascular mortality after revascularization. BM-CD34+ cells isolated from T2DM-CLI donors undergo apoptosis in a higher percentage and are less proangiogenic in-vitro than cells from CTRL. Of the 56 microRNAs commonly expressed in CD34+ cells from the two studied groups, 6 miRs were differentially expressed. Biological validation confirmed a significant down-modulation of miR-21 in CD34+ cells from T2DM-CLI patients. The expression of the miR-21 inhibitory target, PDCD4, a regulator of apoptosis, was increased in CD34+ cells from T2DM-CLI patients compared to CTRL (1.6±0.6 vs. 74.4±14.9 average±SE 2ddCt via PCR). Silencing miR-21 in CD34+ cells from CTRL phenocopied the T2DM-CLI behavior, resulting in significantly increased apoptosis and inhibition of EC networking. Likewise, exposure of endothelial cells to patient-derived CD34+ CCM induced apoptosis and reduced the network formation ability on Matrigel, with these functional liabilities being associated with miR-21 inhibition and PDCD4 upregulation.

Conclusions

Migratory activity of CD34+ cells predicts cardiovascular mortality at 6 years follow-up after PTA in subjects with T2DM and CLI. Complicated T2DM is associated with a specific miR signature in BM CD34+ cells which could negatively impact on vascular cell survival and angiogenic capacity, thereby possibly contributing to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The miR-21/ PDCD4 duo may represent a therapeutic target to rescue diabetes-associated complications.

Acknowledgement/Funding

British Heart Foundation grant RG/13/17/30545, Cariplo Foundation (code: 2016-0922)

Methylation State of Cellular Genes and Oncogenes as a Marker of Malignancy in Human Carcinomas

The methylation pattern of the human HLA-DRα gene was analyzed in primary tumors and lymph node metastases isolated from patients with a variety of tumors, including thyroid, pancreas, breast and gastric carcinomas and melanomas. In normal tissues (including breast, muscle, brain, sperm, T-and B-lymphocytes) the HLA-DRα gene is hypermethylated at CCGG and GCGC sites. In all tissues studied, the only constantly unmethylated region was located in the 5′ portion of the gene. Our results indicate that the HLA-DRα gene is hypomethylated in metastatic lymph nodes, as well as in the carcinomas and melanomas studied. These findings lend support to the hypothesis that DNA hypomethylation of the human HLA-DRα gene may represent a molecular marker of malignant tumors.

Adelmidrol increases the endogenous concentrations of palmitoylethanolamide in canine keratinocytes and down-regulates an inflammatory reaction in an in vitro model of contact allergic dermatitis

This study aimed to investigate potential new target(s)/mechanism(s) for the palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) analogue, adelmidrol, and its role in an in vitro model of contact allergic dermatitis. Freshly isolated canine keratinocytes, human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells and human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells, wild-type or transfected with cDNA encoding for N-acylethanolamine-hydrolysing acid amidase (NAAA), were treated with adelmidrol or azelaic acid, and the concentrations of endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol) and related mediators (PEA and oleoylethanolamide) were measured. The mRNA expression of PEA catabolic enzymes (NAAA and fatty acid amide hydrolase, FAAH), and biosynthetic enzymes (N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D, NAPE-PLD) and glycerophosphodiester phosphodiesterase 1, was also measured. Brain or HEK-293 cell membrane fractions were used to assess the ability of adelmidrol to inhibit FAAH and NAAA activity, respectively. HaCaT cells were stimulated with polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid and the release of the pro-inflammatory chemokine, monocyte chemotactic protein-2 (MCP-2), was measured in the presence of adelmidrol. Adelmidrol increased PEA concentrations in canine keratinocytes and in the other cellular systems studied. It did not inhibit the activity of PEA catabolic enzymes, although it reduced their mRNA expression in some cell types. Adelmidrol modulated the expression of PEA biosynthetic enzyme, NAPE-PLD, in HaCaT cells, and inhibited the release of the pro-inflammatory chemokine MCP-2 from stimulated HaCaT cells. This study demonstrates for the first time an 'entourage effect' of adelmidrol on PEA concentrations in keratinocytes and suggests that this effect might mediate, at least in part, the anti-inflammatory effects of this compound in veterinary practice.

Staphylococcus aureus with reduced susceptibility to vancomycin in healthcare settings

Glycopeptide resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is a source of great concern because, especially in hospitals, this class of antibiotics, particularly vancomycin, is one of the main resources for combating infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains (MRSA). Reduced susceptibility to vancomycin (VISA) was first described in 1996 in Japan; since then, a phenotype with heterogeneous resistance to vancomycin (h-VISA) has emerged. H-VISA isolates are characterised by the presence of a resistant subpopulation, typically at a rate of 1 in 10(5) organisms, which constitutes the intermediate stage betweenfully vancomycin-susceptible S. aureus (VSSA) and VISA isolates. As VISA phenotypes are almost uniformly cross-resistant to teicoplanin, they are also called Glycopeptides-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus strains (GISA) and, in the case of heterogeneous resistance to glycopeptides, h-GISA. The overall prevalence of h-VISA is low, accounting for approximately 1.3% of all MRSA isolates tested. Mortality due to h-GISA infections is very high (about 70%), especially among patients hospitalised in high-risk departments, such as intensive care units (ICU). Given the great clinical relevance of strains that are heteroresistant to glycopeptides and the possible negative impact on treatment choices, it is important to draw up and implement infection control practices, including surveillance, the appropriate use of isolation precautions, staff training, hand hygiene, environmental cleansing and good antibiotic stewardship.

Active accumulation of very diluted biomolecules by nano-dispensing for easy detection below the femtomolar range

Highly sensitive detection of biomolecules is of paramount interest in many fields including biomedicine, safety and eco-pollution. Conventional analyses use well-established techniques with detection limits ~1 pM. Here we propose a pyro-concentrator able to accumulate biomolecules directly onto a conventional binding surface. The operation principle is relatively simple but very effective. Tiny droplets are drawn pyro-electro-dynamically and released onto a specific site, thus increasing the sensitivity. The reliability of the technique is demonstrated in case of labelled oligonucleotides diluted serially. The results show the possibility to detect very diluted oligonucleotides, down to a few hundreds of attomoles. Excellent results are shown also in case of a sample of clinical interest, the gliadin, where a 60-fold improved detection limit is reached, compared with standard ELISA. This method could open the way to a mass-based technology for sensing molecules at very low concentrations, in environmental as well as in diagnostics applications.

The cannabinoid TRPA1 agonist cannabichromene inhibits nitric oxide production in macrophages and ameliorates murine colitis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The non-psychotropic cannabinoid cannabichromene is known to activate the transient receptor potential ankyrin-type1 (TRPA1) and to inhibit endocannabinoid inactivation, both of which are involved in inflammatory processes. We examined here the effects of this phytocannabinoid on peritoneal macrophages and its efficacy in an experimental model of colitis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Murine peritoneal macrophages were activated in vitro by LPS. Nitrite levels were measured using a fluorescent assay; inducible nitric oxide (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and cannabinoid (CB1 and CB2 ) receptors were analysed by RT-PCR (and/or Western blot analysis); colitis was induced by dinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (DNBS). Endocannabinoid (anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol), palmitoylethanolamide and oleoylethanolamide levels were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Colonic inflammation was assessed by evaluating the myeloperoxidase activity as well as by histology and immunohistochemistry.

KEY RESULTS

LPS caused a significant production of nitrites, associated to up-regulation of anandamide, iNOS, COX-2, CB1 receptors and down-regulation of CB2 receptors mRNA expression. Cannabichromene significantly reduced LPS-stimulated nitrite levels, and its effect was mimicked by cannabinoid receptor and TRPA1 agonists (carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde) and enhanced by CB1 receptor antagonists. LPS-induced anandamide, iNOS, COX-2 and cannabinoid receptor changes were not significantly modified by cannabichromene, which, however, increased oleoylethanolamide levels. In vivo, cannabichromene ameliorated DNBS-induced colonic inflammation, as revealed by histology, immunohistochemistry and myeloperoxidase activity.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Cannabichromene exerts anti-inflammatory actions in activated macrophages - with tonic CB1 cannabinoid signalling being negatively coupled to this effect - and ameliorates experimental murine colitis.

Cannabinoid actions at TRPV channels: effects on TRPV3 and TRPV4 and their potential relevance to gastrointestinal inflammation

AIM

Plant cannabinoids, like Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), activate/desensitize thermosensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) channels of vanilloid type-1 or -2 (TRPV1 or TRPV2). We investigated whether cannabinoids also activate/desensitize two other 'thermo-TRP's', the TRP channels of vanilloid type-3 or -4 (TRPV3 or TRPV4), and if the TRPV-inactive cannabichromene (CBC) modifies the expression of TRPV1-4 channels in the gastrointestinal tract.

METHODS

TRP activity was assessed by evaluating elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) in rat recombinant TRPV3- and TRPV4-expressing HEK-293 cells. TRP channel mRNA expression was measured by quantitative RT-PCR in the jejunum and ileum of mice treated with vehicle or the pro-inflammatory agent croton oil.

RESULTS

(i) CBD and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) stimulated TRPV3-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) with high efficacy (50-70% of the effect of ionomycin) and potency (EC(50∼) 3.7 μm), whereas cannabigerovarin (CBGV) and cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) were significantly more efficacious at desensitizing this channel to the action of carvacrol than at activating it; (ii) cannabidivarin and THCV stimulated TRPV4-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) with moderate-high efficacy (30-60% of the effect of ionomycin) and potency (EC(50) 0.9-6.4 μm), whereas CBGA, CBGV, cannabinol and cannabigerol were significantly more efficacious at desensitizing this channel to the action of 4-α-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate (4α-PDD) than at activating it; (iii) CBC reduced TRPV1β, TRPV3 and TRPV4 mRNA in the jejunum, and TRPV3 and TRPV4 mRNA in the ileum of croton oil-treated mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Cannabinoids can affect both the activity and the expression of TRPV1-4 channels, with various potential therapeutic applications, including in the gastrointestinal tract.

Altered endocannabinoid signalling after a high-fat diet in Apoe(-/-) mice: relevance to adipose tissue inflammation, hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) deficiency is associated with reduced fat accumulation in white adipose tissue (WAT) and high liver triacylglycerol content. Elevated levels of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB(1)) receptors in the liver and in epididymal vs subcutaneous WAT are associated with fatty liver, visceral adipose tissue, inflammatory markers and insulin resistance.

METHODS

We investigated, in Apoe (-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice, the effect of a high-fat diet (HFD) on: (1) subcutaneous and epididymal WAT accumulation, liver triacylglycerols, phospholipid-esterified fatty acids, inflammatory markers in WAT and liver, and insulin resistance; and (2) endocannabinoid levels, and the gene expression levels of the Cb ( 1 ) receptor and endocannabinoid metabolic enzymes in liver and WAT.

RESULTS

After a 16 week HFD, Apoe (-/-) mice exhibited lower body weight, WAT accumulation and fasting leptin, glucose and insulin levels, and higher hepatic steatosis, than WT mice. Glucose clearance and insulin-mediated glucose disposal following the HFD were slower in WT than Apoe (-/-) mice, which exhibited higher levels of mRNA encoding inflammatory markers (tumour necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], cluster of differentiation 68 [CD68] and EGF-like module-containing mucin-like hormone receptor-like 1 [EMR1]) in the liver, but lower levels in epididymal WAT. HFD-induced elevation of endocannabinoid levels in the liver or epididymal WAT was higher or lower, respectively, in Apoe (-/-) mice, whereas HFD-induced decrease of subcutaneous WAT endocannabinoid and CB(1) receptor levels was significantly less marked. Alterations in endocannabinoid levels reflected changes in endocannabinoid catabolic enzymes in WAT, or the availability of phospholipid precursors in the liver.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Liver and adipose tissue endocannabinoid tone following an HFD is altered on Apoe deletion and strongly associated with inflammation, insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis, or lack thereof.

Protective role of palmitoylethanolamide in contact allergic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an anti-inflammatory mediator that enhances the activation by anandamide (AEA) of cannabinoid receptors and transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) channels, and directly activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha). In mice, 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced contact allergic dermatitis (CAD) in inflamed ears is partly mediated by the chemokine Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-2 (MCP-2) and accompanied by elevation of AEA levels. No datum is available on PEA regulation and role in CAD.

OBJECTIVE

We examined whether PEA is produced during DNFB-induced CAD, and if it has any direct protective action in keratinocytes in vitro.

METHODS

Eight- to ten-week-old female C57BL/6J wild-type and CB(1)/CB(2) double knock-out mice were used to measure PEA levels and the expression of TRPV1, PPAR-alpha receptors and enzymes responsible for PEA biosynthesis and degradation. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells were stimulated with polyinosinic polycytidylic acid [poly-(I:C)], and the expression and release of MCP-2 were measured in the presence of PEA and antagonists of its proposed receptors.

RESULTS

2,4-Dinitrofluorobenzene increased ear skin PEA levels and up-regulated TRPV1, PPAR-alpha and a PEA-biosynthesizing enzyme in ear keratinocytes. In HaCaT cells, stimulation with poly-(I:C) elevated the levels of both PEA and AEA, and exogenous PEA (10 microM) inhibited poly-(I:C)-induced expression and release of MCP-2 in a way reversed by antagonism at TRPV1, but not PPAR-alpha. PEA (5-10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) also inhibited DNFB-induced ear inflammation in mice in vivo, in a way attenuated by TRPV1 antagonism.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that PEA is an endogenous protective agent against DNFB-induced keratinocyte inflammation and could be considered for therapeutic use against CAD.

Investigation of organizational and hygiene features in dentistry: a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

In dentistry, as in surgery, there is a risk of cross-infection for both patients and staff The aim of this research was to evaluate procedures and behaviors enacted by dental staff which might engender a risk for themselves and their patients.

METHODS

A questionnaire was administered to 106 dental workers in Genoa (Italy), both public and private. Whenever personal interviews were conducted, the facilities involved were also inspected and the activities of the dental staff were observed directly.

RESULTS

This research highlighted some critical points in both structural and organizational features and in the management of infective hazards in the sample considered. In some cases, inadequacies were noted with regard to the prevention of cross-infections, such as the lack of disinfection of work surfaces and the handles of chair-set accessories.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The particular nature of dental work, in which aerosols of blood and saliva may be produced by rotating instruments, engenders a risk of infection. Application of the various preventive measures available can significantly reduce microbial contamination and the risk of occupational infection and cross-infections. Furthermore, improvement in the structural and organizational features of dental surgeries and the continuing education of health-care workers is indispensable to the control and prevention of infectious diseases.

Fertility in a i(Xq) Klinefelter patient: importance of XIST expression level determined by qRT-PCR in ruling out Klinefelter cryptic mosaicism as cause of oligozoospermia

The presence of an isochromosome Xq in Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is an apparently rare condition. In all cases reported so far, patients showed the classic phenotype. We here describe a case of isochromosome Xq [47,X,i(Xq),Y] in a non-mosaic KS patient. The patient exhibited a normal androgenized phenotype, normal testes and normal cognitive abilities. Semen analysis revealed a medium oligozoospermia (5 x 10(6) spermatozoa/ml). After the patient underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection, he generated two cytogenetically healthy normal females. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis showed the presence of a dicentric Xq chromosome that did not show the presence of residual Xp arm up to the 57,820,478 bp position (Xp 1.1) of X chromosome sequence. Preferential inactivation of Xq isochromosome was demonstrated by bromodeoxyuridine replication analysis and transcriptional silencing by DNA methylation at the HUMARA locus. Furthermore, we demonstrated by quantitative RT-PCR an active XIST RNA expression in blood lymphocytes from Klinefelter patients, comparable to that observed in control females and over 30,000-fold greater than in control males. In conclusion, this qRT-PCR approach could be useful for screening of prepuberty males and for diagnosis or exclusion of cryptic Klinefelter mosaics.

Surface disinfection: evaluation of the efficacy of a nebulization system spraying hydrogen peroxide

INTRODUCTION

The study assessed the efficacy of a system of nebulization of a hydrogen peroxide-based solution for surface disinfection.

METHODS

Different concentrations (1, 2 and 4 ml/m3) of the same disinfectant solution (active principle: hydrogen peroxide) were nebulized inside a 50 m3 experimental environment. Sampling was carried out on both horizontal and vertical surfaces, and the total bacterial load at 37 degrees C was determined by means of direct contact with Rodac plates. The disinfection efficacy of the system was evaluated by comparing the total bacterial load measured on the surfaces before and after treatment. Statistical analysis was performed by means of Stata/SE9 software.

RESULTS

The percentage reduction in the mean bacterial load on horizontal surfaces as a result of treatment at concentrations of 1, 2 and 4 ml/m3 proved to be 54.9%, 70.9% and 86.9%, respectively. With regard to vertical surfaces, the percentage reduction was 100% in all experimental conditions.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The system tested proved to be efficacious in disinfecting surfaces inside environments of 50 m3 in volume. It could therefore be used to disinfect surfaces in hospital and community settings. In healthcare facilities, disinfection by means of nebulization systems could help to reduce the risk of spreading nosocomial infections.

The role of endocannabinoids in the regulation of gastric emptying: alterations in mice fed a high-fat diet

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endocannabinoids (via cannabinoid CB(1) receptor activation) are physiological regulators of intestinal motility and food intake. However, their role in the regulation of gastric emptying is largely unexplored. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of gastric emptying in mice fed either a standard diet (STD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) for 14 weeks.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Gastric emptying was evaluated by measuring the amount of phenol red recovered in the stomach after oral challenge; CB(1) expression was analysed by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR; endocannabinoid (anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol) levels were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

KEY RESULTS

Gastric emptying was reduced by anandamide, an effect counteracted by the CB(1) receptor antagonist rimonabant, but not by the CB(2) receptor antagonist SR144528 or by the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) antagonist 5'-iodoresiniferatoxin. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor N-arachidonoyl-5-hydroxytryptamine (but not the anandamide uptake inhibitor OMDM-2) reduced gastric emptying in a way partly reduced by rimonabant. Compared to STD mice, HFD mice exhibited significantly higher body weight and fasting glucose levels, delayed gastric emptying and lower anandamide and CB(1) mRNA levels. N-arachidonoylserotonin (but not rimonabant) affected gastric emptying more efficaciously in HFD than STD mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Gastric emptying is physiologically regulated by the endocannabinoid system, which is downregulated following a HFD leading to overweight.

Quality in emergency departments: a study on 3,285,440 admissions

INTRODUCTION

A multi-centre study has been conducted, during 2005, by means of a questionnaire posted on the Italian Society of Emergency Medicine (SIMEU) web page. Our intention was to carry out an organisational and functional analysis of Italian Emergency Departments (ED) in order to pick out some macro-indicators of the activities performed. Participation was good, in that 69 ED (3,285,440 admissions to emergency services) responded to the questionnaire.

METHODS

The study was based on 18 questions: 3 regarding the personnel of the ED, 2 regarding organisational and functional aspects, 5 on the activity of the ED, 7 on triage and 1 on the assessment of the quality perceived by the users of the ED.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The replies revealed that 91.30% of the ED were equipped with data-processing software, which, in 96.83% of cases, tracked the entire itinerary of the patient. About 48,000 patients/year used the ED: 76.72% were discharged and 18.31% were hospitalised. Observation Units were active in 81.16% of the ED examined. Triage programmes were in place in 92.75% of ED: in 75.81% of these, triage was performed throughout the entire itinerary of the patient; in 16.13% it was performed only symptom-based, and in 8.06% only on-call. Of the patients arriving at the ED, 24.19% were assigned a non-urgent triage code, 60.01% a urgent code, 14.30% a emergent code and 1.49% a life-threatening code. Waiting times were: 52.39 min for non-urgent patients, 40.26 min for urgent, 12.08 for emergent, and 1.19 for life-threatening patients.

[Occupational exposure to formaldehyde in three pathology departments]

Although formaldehyde has recently been classified by the IARC as "carcinogenic in humans" (class 1), it is still widely used in pathology departments for the fixing and conservation of biological tissues. Its use therefore raises the question of occupational exposure. The present paper reports the results of an environmental monitoring campaign to evaluate pollution by formaldehyde in various areas of three pathology departments. Chemi-adsorbent cartridges able to adsorb airborne formaldehyde were used to detect the substance. Quantitative determination of the formaldehyde was carried out by means of liquid chromatography (HPLC). The concentrations of airborne formaldehyde in the areas monitored were fairly modest, being below the limits of indoor concentration proposed by the OSHA. In one of the three departments, however these limits were exceeded in 40% of the samples taken in the room used for the storage of containers. As yet, in spite of the recent class 1 classification by the IARC, no provisions have been made to ban the use of formaldehyde. It is therefore essential to draw up environmental monitoring programmes in order to evaluate occupational exposure and to assess the efficacy of any preventive measures adopted.

Fungal contamination in hospital environments

OBJECTIVES

To assess the degree of fungal contamination in hospital environments and to evaluate the ability of air conditioning systems to reduce such contamination.

METHODS

We monitored airborne microbial concentrations in various environments in 10 hospitals equipped with air conditioning. Sampling was performed with a portable Surface Air System impactor with replicate organism detection and counting plates containing a fungus-selective medium. The total fungal concentration was determined 72-120 hours after sampling. The genera most involved in infection were identified by macroscopic and microscopic observation.

RESULTS

The mean concentration of airborne fungi in the set of environments examined was 19 +/- 19 colony-forming units (cfu) per cubic meter. Analysis of the fungal concentration in the different types of environments revealed different levels of contamination: the lowest mean values (12 +/- 14 cfu/m(3)) were recorded in operating theaters, and the highest (45 +/- 37 cfu/m(3)) were recorded in kitchens. Analyses revealed statistically significant differences between median values for the various environments. The fungal genus most commonly encountered was Penicillium, which, in kitchens, displayed the highest mean airborne concentration (8 +/- 2.4 cfu/m(3)). The percentage (35%) of Aspergillus documented in the wards was higher than that in any of the other environments monitored.

CONCLUSIONS

The fungal concentrations recorded in the present study are comparable to those recorded in other studies conducted in hospital environments and are considerably lower than those seen in other indoor environments that are not air conditioned. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of air-handling systems in reducing fungal contamination.

A study about remedial measures to reduce 222Rn concentration in an experimental building

Radon gas emanating from underground can spread to adjoining closed areas. It can concentrate and reach levels which represent a risk to people's health. It is well known that radon presence in most areas depends mainly on the area's geological features. Indoor radon concentrations further depend on the type of structure, construction materials and the technology used for the building. Therefore, indoor radon monitoring is of primary importance for deciding whether remedial measures are to be adopted for reducing harmful concentrations. This approach has been tried by measuring radon concentration in an experimental building situated in Milan (Italy). This building situated in a geological area that is considered at low radon risk. The results were obtained after analysing radon concentration in indoor rooms, crawl spaces, soil gas and in the atmosphere outside and by measuring before and after adoption of remedial measures. The study shows that improper building design can give rise to higher indoor radon accumulation even in an area of poor radon exhalation. Furthermore, the results enable quantification of the effectiveness of the remedial measures.

Factors influencing hospital infection control policies in Italian hospitals

A study was undertaken to determine the resources available in Italian hospitals for the control of nosocomial infections and the factors favouring a successful approach. During January-May 2000 a questionnaire about infection control was sent to the hospital health director of all Italian National Health System hospitals treating acute patients and with more than 3500 admissions in 1999. An active programme was defined as a hospital infection control committee (HICC) meeting at least four times in 1999, the presence of a doctor with infection control responsibilities, a nurse employed in infection control and at least one surveillance activity and one infection control guideline issued or updated in the past two years. There was a response rate of 87.5% (463/529). Almost fifteen percent (69/463) of hospitals had an active programme for Infection Control and 76.2% (353/463) had a HICC. Seventy-one percent (330/463) of the hospitals had a hospital infection control physician and 53% (250/463) had infection control nurses. Fifty-two percent (242/463) reported at least one surveillance activity and 70.8% (328/463) had issued or updated at least one guidance document in the last two years. The presence of regional policies [odds ratio (OR) 8.7], operative groups (OR 4.2), at least one full-time nurse (OR 4.6) and a hospital annual plan which specified infection control (OR 2.1) were statistically associated with an active programme in the multivariate analysis.

Factors affecting individual exposure to NO2 in Genoa (northern Italy)

The individual exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) of 89 volunteers living in Genoa, a large port city of northern Italy, was investigated with personal passive diffusion tubes in February-March 2000. The data were related to NO2 concentration in the kitchen and bedroom as measured by static samplers. Volunteers included students, workers and housewives living in three areas of Genoa differing by street traffic and industrial plant location. The kitchen samples showed higher (47.00+/-16.5 microg/m3) NO2 concentrations than those from the bedroom (24.78+/-9.8 microg/m3); overall indoor NO2 concentrations were lower in the Eastern area of Genoa, where outdoor pollution is lower. Students were the volunteer group with the lowest exposure rate (24.9+/-7.8 microg/m3 vs. 44.3+/-10.1 microg/m3 for workers and 40.0+/-13.4 microg/m3 for housewives). This difference is related to the fact that students spend more time indoors, where pollution levels are lower. The main household characteristics which were shown to affect personal NO2 exposure were (a) the presence of a chimney equipped with an active aspiration device in the kitchen and (b) the heating system.

Control by the endogenous cannabinoid system of ras oncogene-dependent tumor growth

We investigated the effect of 2-methyl-arachidonyl-2'-fluoro-ethylamide (Met-F-AEA), a stable analog of the endocannabinoid anandamide, on a rat thyroid epithelial cell line (FRTL-5) transformed by the K-ras oncogene, and on epithelial tumors derived from these cells. Met-F-AEA effect in vivo was evaluated in a nude mouse xenograft model, where K-ras-transformed (KiMol) cells were implanted subcutaneously. Met-F-AEA (0.5 mg/kg/dose) induced a drastic reduction in tumor volume. This effect was inhibited by the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716A (0.7 mg/kg/dose) and was accompanied by a strong reduction of K-ras activity. Accordingly, KiMol cells and tumors express CB1 receptors. Met-F-AEA inhibited (IC50 ~5 mM) the proliferation in vitro and the transition to the S phase of KiMol cells and it reduced K-ras activity; these effects were antagonized by SR141716A. Met-F-AEA cytostatic action was significantly smaller in nontransformed FRTL-5 cells than in KiMol cells. Met-F-AEA treatment exerted opposite effects on the expression of CB1 receptors in KiMol and FRTL-5 cells, with a strong up-regulation in the former case and a suppression in nontransformed cells. The data suggest that: 1) Met-F-AEA inhibits ras oncogene-dependent tumor growth in vivo through CB1 cannabinoid receptors; and 2) responsiveness of FRTL-5 cells to endocannabinoids depends on whether or not they are transformed by K-ras.

Palmitoylethanolamide inhibits the expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase and enhances the anti-proliferative effect of anandamide in human breast cancer cells

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has been shown to act in synergy with anandamide (arachidonoylethanolamide; AEA), an endogenous agonist of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB(1)). This synergistic effect was reduced by the CB(2) cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR144528, although PEA does not activate either CB(1) or CB(2) receptors. Here we show that PEA potently enhances the anti-proliferative effects of AEA on human breast cancer cells (HBCCs), in part by inhibiting the expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the major enzyme catalysing AEA degradation. PEA (1-10 microM) enhanced in a dose-related manner the inhibitory effect of AEA on both basal and nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced HBCC proliferation, without inducing any cytostatic effect by itself. PEA (5 microM) decreased the IC(50) values for AEA inhibitory effects by 3-6-fold. This effect was not blocked by the CB(2) receptor antagonist SR144528, and was not mimicked by a selective agonist of CB(2) receptors. PEA enhanced AEA-evoked inhibition of the expression of NGF Trk receptors, which underlies the anti-proliferative effect of the endocannabinoid on NGF-stimulated MCF-7 cells. The effect of PEA was due in part to inhibition of AEA degradation, since treatment of MCF-7 cells with 5 microM PEA caused a approximately 30-40% down-regulation of FAAH expression and activity. However, PEA also enhanced the cytostatic effect of the cannabinoid receptor agonist HU-210, although less potently than with AEA. PEA did not modify the affinity of ligands for CB(1) or CB(2) receptors, and neither did it alter the CB(1)/CB(2)-mediated inhibitory effect of AEA on adenylate cyclase type V, nor the expression of CB(1) and CB(2) receptors in MCF-7 cells. We suggest that long-term PEA treatment of cells may positively affect the pharmacological activity of AEA, in part by inhibiting FAAH expression.

[Autoantibodies in chronic hepatitis C. Markers of autoimmunity or non-specific events?]

In the light of the high prevalence of non organ-specific autoantibodies in chronic hepatitis C, the possibility that such a finding may represent the consequence of a viral, autoimmune or overlapping disease should be considered, which may in turn require a different therapeutical approach. It is known, anyway, that the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis is based on a set of epidemiological, clinical, biochemical, histological criteria and autoantibody pattern. In 113 cases of chronic hepatitis with HCV infection, we determined the presence of non organ-specific autoantibodies [anti-nuclear (ANA), anti-smooth muscle (SMA), anti-liver-kidney microsomal antibodies (LKM), anti-mithocondrial antibodies (AMA)] and described the epidemiological, clinical, biochemical, histological characteristics and therapeutic response to interferon. 40 patients (35%) exhibited non organ-specific autoantibodies: 25 patients were SMA positive (Vasal pattern), 4 ANA positive (Speckled pattern), 7 ANA (Speckled pattern) + SMA (Vasal pattern) positive and 4 LKM positive. All subjects with HCV infection and autoantibodies did not display additional criterias of autoimmunity, including the same outcome to interferon therapy when compared to HCV positive patients without autoantibodies. The failure to determine clinical features, associated to autoimmunity in HCV positive patients with autoantibodies, suggests that autoantibody occurrence may represent a fortuitous event during the course of HCV infection.

Synthesis and applications of chitosan mercaptanes as heavy metal retention agent

Chitosan, poly-beta(1-->4)-2 amino-2-deoxy-D-Glucopyranose is a biopolymer obtained by extensive deacetylation of chitin [poly-beta(1-->4)-2-acetamide-2-deoxy-D-Glucopyranose], main constituent of crustacean shells. The present study was carried out using crab shells from nylon shrimps (Heterocarpus reedi). Despite the abundance of raw material in our environment, little work has been published in this field using derivatives. The main goal of this work is to develop a good method to prepare chitosan mercaptanes derivatives using mercaptoacetic acid and 1-chloro-2,3-epoxy propane propionic acid. The evaluation of the retention capacities using several concentrations of copper and mercury solutions with concentrations ranging from 10 to 104 ppm at pH 2.5 and 4.5 are tested. A comparison of the absorption isotherms with Langmuir isotherms is also reported. Full characterization of the derivatives was carried out using FTIR, elemental analysis and TGA. The morphology of chitosan and derivatives is compared before and after treating polymers with mercury and copper ions.

Increased urinary excretion of hydroxyproline in runners training in urban areas

In this study, the authors investigated urinary excretion of hydroxyproline in 120 subjects to test the hypothesis that physical activity is associated with increased exposure to pollution derived from traffic exhaust. The study population comprised active noncompetitive runners (i.e., 21.1% trained < 2.5 hr/wk, 20% trained for 2.5-5.0 hr/wk, and 54.4% trained > 5 hr/wk) who lived in Genoa, an urban area of Northern Italy. The mean hydroxyproline value (24.39 +/- 8.38 standard deviation] mg/24 hr x m2) in a group of 69 runners who trained in tracks and streets located in downtown Genoa was higher (p < .05) than the mean value recorded in a group of 21 runners (13.33 +/- 2.51 mg/24 hr x m2) who trained mainly in a rural environment of Genoa. The difference was even greater (p < .01) when a third comparable group of 30 nonrunners was considered (mean = 12.54 +/- 3.41 [standard deviation] mg/24 hr x m2). In the urban environment, urinary levels of hydroxyproline were correlated significantly with intensity and frequency of running, but they were unrelated to smoking status.

sICAM-1, sCD95 and sCD95L levels in chronic liver diseases of different etiology

The release of soluble circulating molecules represents a prominent feature during the course of immune-mediated clinical conditions. To further assess the relationship between serum concentrations of adhesion or apoptotic-related soluble structures and liver diseases, we evaluated the levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), Fas receptor (CD95) and Fas ligand (sCD95L) in a group of patients affected by Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)-induced chronic hepatitis (CH-C), HCV-positive liver cirrhosis with superimposed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC). Results show that sICAM-1 values were in all instances significantly elevated when compared to those seen in healthy donors. Similar findings were noted in subjects with liver diseases in terms of sCD95 concentrations, even if to a different degree of statistical significance. Finally, sCD95L amounts were augmented in AIH, PBC, ALC and CH-C in comparison to controls, while in the HCC counterpart sCD95L levels fell within normal range. All together, these findings emphasize the occurrence of circulating soluble molecules in patients with various chronic liver diseases, likely reflecting the involvement of several pathogenetic mechanisms.

Suppression of nerve growth factor Trk receptors and prolactin receptors by endocannabinoids leads to inhibition of human breast and prostate cancer cell proliferation

Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), two endogenous ligands of the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptor subtypes, inhibit the proliferation of PRL-responsive human breast cancer cells (HBCCs) through down-regulation of the long form of the PRL receptor (PRLr). Here we report that 1) anandamide and 2-AG inhibit the nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced proliferation of HBCCs through suppression of the levels of NGF Trk receptors; 2) inhibition of PRLr levels results in inhibition of the proliferation of other PRL-responsive cells, the prostate cancer DU-145 cell line; and 3) CB1-like cannabinoid receptors are expressed in HBCCs and DU-145 cells and mediate the inhibition of cell proliferation and Trk/PRLr expression. Beta-NGF-induced HBCC proliferation was potently inhibited (IC50 = 50-600 nM) by the synthetic cannabinoid HU-210, 2-AG, anandamide, and its metabolically stable analogs, but not by the anandamide congener, palmitoylethanolamide, or the selective agonist of CB2 cannabinoid receptors, BML-190. The effect of anandamide was blocked by the CB1 receptor antagonist, SR141716A, but not by the CB2 receptor antagonist, SR144528. Anandamide and HU-210 exerted a strong inhibition of the levels of NGF Trk receptors as detected by Western immunoblotting; this effect was reversed by SR141716A. When induced by exogenous PRL, the proliferation of prostate DU-145 cells was potently inhibited (IC50 = 100-300 nM) by anandamide, 2-AG, and HU-210. Anandamide also down-regulated the levels of PRLr in DU-145 cells. SR141716A attenuated these two effects of anandamide. HBCCs and DU-145 cells were shown to contain 1) transcripts for CB1 and, to a lesser extent, CB2 cannabinoid receptors, 2) specific binding sites for [3H]SR141716A that could be displaced by anandamide, and 3) a CB1 receptor-immunoreactive protein. These findings suggest that endogenous cannabinoids and CB1 receptor agonists are potential negative effectors of PRL- and NGF-induced biological responses, at least in some cancer cells.

Biosynthesis and inactivation of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol in circulating and tumoral macrophages

The stimulus-induced biosynthesis of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in intact mouse J774 macrophages and the inactivation of 2-AG by the same cells or by rat circulating macrophages was studied. By using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, we found that ionomycin (5 microM) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 200 microg x mL-1) cause a 24-fold and 2.5-fold stimulation of 2-AG levels in J774 cells, respectively, thus providing unprecedented evidence that this cannabimimetic metabolite can be synthesized by macrophages. In J774 cells, LPS also induced a 7.8-fold increase of the levels of the other endocannabinoid, anandamide, and, in rat circulating macrophages, an almost twofold increase of 2-AG levels. Extracellular [3H]2-AG was cleared from the medium of intact J774 macrophages (t1/2 = 19-28 min) and esterified to phospholipids, diacylglycerols and triglycerides or hydrolyzed to [3H]arachidonic acid and glycerol. These catabolic processes were attenuated differentially by various enzyme inhibitors. Rat circulating macrophages were shown to contain enzymatic activities for the hydrolysis of 2-AG, including: (a) fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme responsible for anandamide breakdown and previously shown to catalyse also 2-AG hydrolysis, and (b) a 2-AG hydrolase activity different from FAAH and down-regulated by LPS. High levels of FAAH mRNA were found in circulating macrophages but not platelets, which, however, contain a 2-AG hydrolase. Both platelets and macrophages were shown to express the mRNA for the CB1 cannabinoid receptor. A macrophage 2-AG hydrolase with apparent Km = 110 microM and Vmax = 7.9 nmol x min-1 x (mg protein)-1 was partially characterized in J774 cells and found to exhibit an optimal pH of 6-7 and little or no sensitivity to typical FAAH inhibitors. These findings demonstrate for the first time that macrophages participate in the homeostasis of the hypotensive and immunomodulatory endocannabinoid 2-AG through metabolic mechanisms that are subject to regulation.

Kelletinin A, from the marine mollusc Buccinulum corneum, promotes differentiation in Hydra vulgaris

The effects of kelletinin A [ribityl pentakis (p-hydroxybenzoate)] (KA), a natural compound isolated from the marine gastropod Buccinulum corneum, were studied in vivo in Hydra vulgaris during regeneration. KA caused a marked increase of regenerated tentacle numbers (ATN) and promoted transdifferentiation of epithelial cells into battery cells, and nematocyte differentiation. Morphological data were correlated to changes in acid and alkaline phosphatase levels, enzymes that have been described as regeneration markers.

Multiple forms of DNA polymerase from the thermo-acidophilic eubacterium Bacillus acidocaldarius: purification, biochemical characterization and possible biological role

Two DNA polymerase isoenzymes, called DpA and DpB on the basis of their elution order from DEAE cellulose, were purified to homogeneity from the thermo-acidophilic eubacterium Bacillus acidocaldarius. The enzymes are weakly acidophilic proteins constituted by a single subunit of 117 and 103 kDa respectively. DpA and DpB differ in thermostability, in thermophilicity, in sensitivity to assay conditions and in resistance to sulphydryl-group blocking agents such as N-ethylmaleimide and p-hydroxymercuriobenzoate. They differ also in synthetic template-primer utilization, in the apparent Km for dNTPs and in processivity. In particular, DpA utilizes more effic iently synthetic templates-primers such as poly(dA).poly(dT), poly(dT). (rA)12-18 and poly(rA).(dT)12-18 and presents a greater tendency to accept dNTP analogues modified in the sugar or in the base ring, such as cytosine beta-d-arabinofuranoside 5'-triphosphate, 2',3'-dideoxyribonucleosides 5'-triphosphate, butylphenyl-dGTP and digoxigenin-conjugated dUTP. In addition, DpA presents an exonuclease activity that preferentially hydrolyses DNA in the 5'-3' direction, whereas DpB lacks this activity. The possible biological role of the enzymes is discussed.

Novel diterpenoid diacylglycerols from marine molluscs: potent morphogens and protein kinase C activators

Five novel 1,2-sn-diacylglycerols with diterpenoid acyl moieties in the sn-1 position were isolated and characterized, together with the corresponding 1,3-sn-diacylglycerols, from three species of dorid nudibranchs molluscs. Their potent activity as morphogens in vivo in the Hydra tentacle regeneration assay and their parallel activity as activators of rat brain protein kinase C (PKC) in vitro are reported here. Our findings promote the use of these compounds as useful molecular probes for both in vivo and in vitro studies on the participation of PKC in cell development.

Inhibition mechanisms of HIV-1, Mo-MuLV and AMV reverse transcriptases by Kelletinin A from Buccinulum corneum

Kelletinin A [ribity pentakis (p-hydroxybenzoate)] (KA), an inhibitor of HTLV-1 replication isolated from Buccinulum corneum, showed a noncompetitive inhibitory activity with respect to the template primer and to dTTP in the poly(rA).oligo(dT)12-18-directed reaction of HIV-1, Mo-MuLV and AMV reverse transcriptases (RT). Analysis of natural and synthetic KA-related compounds showed that the inhibitory activity was strictly related to the structural peculiarities of the molecule. In the presence of DNA as template primer the inhibition mechanism was drastically modified: HIV-1 RT activity was stimulated by low concentrations of KA and was inhibited by increasing the concentration of the compound, while Mo-MuLV and AMV activities were irreversibly inhibited by the formation of a non-reactive complex. The RNase H activities of these RTs were not affected by KA. The results of this study suggest a different mechanism of interaction of Kelletinins with HIV-1 RT compared with other non-nucleoside inhibitors. A possible use of these drugs in combination therapy and in the design of structure-based reverse transcriptase inhibitors is discussed.

An experimental set-up to study carbon, water, and nitrate uptake rates by hydroponically grown plants

The experimental system described allows concomitant hourly measurements of CO2, H2O, and NO3 uptake rates by plants grown hydroponically in a greenhouse. Plants are enclosed in an airtight chamber through which air flows at a controlled speed. Carbon dioxide exchange and transpiration rates are determined from respective differences of concentrations of CO2 and water vapor of the air at the system inlet and outlet. This set-up is based on the "open-system" principle with improvements made on existing systems. For instance, propeller anemometers are used to monitor air flow rates in the chamber. From their signal it is possible to continuously adjust air speed to changing environmental conditions and plant activity. The air temperature inside the system therefore never rises above that outside. Water and NO3 uptake rates are calculated at time intervals from changes in the volume and the NO3 concentration of the nutrient solution in contact with the roots. The precise measurement of the volume of solution is achieved using a balance which has a higher precision than any liquid level sensors. Nitrate concentration is determined in the laboratory from aliquots of solution sampled at time intervals. A number of test runs are reported which validate the measurements and confirm undisturbed conditions within the system. Results of typical diurnal changes in CO2, H2O, and NO3 uptake rates by fruiting tomato plants are also presented.

Antimitotic and antiviral activities of Kelletinin A in HTLV-1 infected MT2 cells

Kelletinin A [ribityl-pentakis (p-hydroxybenzoate)] (KA), a natural compound isolated from the marine gastropod Buccinulum corneum, showed antiviral activity on the human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1) and antimitotic activity on HTLV-1-infected MT2 cells. KA inhibited cellular DNA and RNA synthesis, without influencing protein synthesis, and interfered with viral transcription by reducing the levels of high molecular weight transcripts. Finally, the compound inhibited HTLV-1 reverse transcriptase in vitro.

Anandamide, an endogenous cannabinomimetic substance, modulates rat brain protein kinase C in vitro

Anandamide (AnNH, N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamine) has been recently proposed as the endogenous ligand for mammalian brain cannabinoid receptor. Non-cannabinoid receptor-mediated, intracellular actions have been also found for this novel mediator. Here we present evidence for the modulation by anandamide of rat brain protein kinase C (PKC) activity in vitro. The ethanolamide of arachidonic acid (AA) was more active than the free acid in increasing phosphatidylserine (PS)-induced PKC activation (EC50 = 40 microM), but inhibited dioleylglycerol-induced potentiation of both Ca(2+)- and Ca2+/PS-induced PKC activation (IC50 = 8 microM and 30 microM, respectively). A dual modulatory action of anandamide on PKC, exerted by binding to the diacylglycerol regulatory site, is hypothesized in rat brain.

Environmental and personal monitoring of exposure to urban noise and community response

Noise exposure of a population sample living in a city in northern Italy (Genoa) was assessed by measuring the noise in the area as well as with personal sound detectors. Sampling was conducted during a standard day and covered a period of time spent out-of-doors, at work (service sector) and at home. Ambient noise at home and at work was assessed with sound-level meters, personal exposure levels were assessed with personal sound-level/dosimeters. Information regarding each environment was obtained with an interview including also a subjective judgement on traffic intensity and noise levels. The mean individual equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) of recorded noise was 74.5 dB(A) for 24 h and 63.9 dB(A) at night. A further distinction was made between noise exposure at home (Leq 74.4), work (Leq 74.0) and during city transfers (Leq 79.3). Leq values for individual hours, Leq daytime (Leq, d), Leq nighttime (Leq,n) and Leq day-night (Ldn) indices calculated in the different environments, i.e. at work, home and out-of-doors, are reported here. Individual noise levels have then been compared with environmental data and with subjective noise exposure judgement.

Blood lead levels in shopkeepers and car traffic pollution in Liguria, Italy

A study was conducted into the exposure to atmospheric pollution caused by car traffic by measuring blood lead (PbB) levels in a sample of 657 adult individuals (shopkeepers) all living in Liguria. The mean level of blood lead in all examined individuals was 9.39 micrograms dl-1 (0.45 mumol per liter; C.I. 95%: 9.06-9.75 micrograms dl-1; 0.44-0.47 mumol per liter) with a range between 2.0 and 46.03 micrograms dl-1 (0.10-2.22 mumol per liter). The average Pb values in individuals working in streets with high and very high traffic was 8.30 micrograms dl-1 (0.40 mumol per liter; C.I. 95%: 7.41-9.31 micrograms dl-1; 0.36-0.45 mumol per liter) and 9.98 micrograms dl-1 (0.48 mumol per liter; C.I. 95%: 9.62-10.37 micrograms dl-1; 0.46-0.50 mumol per liter), respectively. These average blood lead levels were statistically greater than the average PbB values of those working in low traffic streets (7.06 micrograms dl-1; 0.34 mumol per liter; C.I. 95%: 6.22-7.94 micrograms dl-1; 0.30-0.38 mumol per liter). The percentile distribution (50th, 90th and 98th P) for all subgroups surveyed has always proved to be below the maximum limits specified by EC Directive No. 77/312.