The effects of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP) infusion following spinal cord transection in rats

A laminectomy was performed at the T5-T6 vertebral level in adult, male, Sprague-Dawley rats and the spinal cord transected with a scalpel. A group of sham animals was subjected to the same surgery without the transection step. A group of unhandled control rats was also included. A subgroup of transected animals received a subcutaneous osmotic minipump that dispensed IL-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP) at the transection site for 7 consecutive days. Another transected subgroup received a minipump that infused the vehicle only. IRAP-treated rats displayed a significant reduction in body temperature (p < 0.05) compared with vehicle-treated rats. The IRAP-treated rats were also less active when assessed for locomotor behavior using an HVS computerized tracking system (p < 0.01). IRAP treatment had no effect on serum corticosterone, beta-endorphin levels, Con A, PHA, or LPS-induced splenocyte mitogenesis when compared with vehicle-treated animals. However, half of the IRAP-treated animals exhibited a substantive reduction in the number of reactive astrocytes near the transection site, suggesting a possible effect of IRAP on astrocyte activation.     

Myiasis in humans: an overview and a report of two cases in the Republic of Panama

This paper on myiasis provides varied references from documented sources as an overall review. A review of two case studies, a primary screwworm (cochliomyia hominivorax) infestation and a human botfly (Dermatobia hominis) infestation, as well as information on approaches to positive intervention and remediation are presented. Human myiasis found in the subtropical and tropical regions of the world is a health threat. As a result of the military's expanding role in medical support to various regions where myiasis is endemic, this paper serves to familiarize health care providers with this condition and to provide guidance when dealing with patients affected by myiasis.