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Background: Alpha-chloralose (AC) is a compound known to be toxic to various animal species and humans. In 2018 and 2019 an increase in suspected cases of AC poisoning in cats related to the use of AC as a rodenticide was reported to national veterinary and chemical authorities in Finland, Norway and Sweden by veterinarians working in clinical practices in respective country. The aims of this study were to prospectively investigate AC poisoning in cats, including possible secondary poisoning by consuming poisoned mice, and to study metabolism and excretion of AC in cats through analysis of feline urine. Methods: Data on signalment, history and clinical findings were prospectively collected in Finland, Norway and Sweden from July 2020 until March of 2021 using a questionnaire which the attending veterinarian completed and submitted together with a serum sample collected from suspected feline cases of AC-poisoning. The diagnosis was confirmed by quantification of AC in serum samples. Content of AC was studied in four feline urine samples, including screening for AC metabolites by UHPLC-HRMS/MS. Bait intake and amount of AC consumed by mice was observed in wild mice during an extermination of a rodent infestation. Results: In total, 59 of 70 collected questionnaires and accompanying serum samples were included, with 127 to 70 100 ng/mL AC detected in the serum. Several tentative AC-metabolites were detected in the analysed feline urine samples, including dechlorinated and oxidated AC, several sulfate conjugates, and one glucuronic acid conjugate of AC. The calculated amount of AC ingested by each mouse was 33 to 106 mg with a mean of 61 mg. Conclusions: Clinical recognition of symptoms of AC poisoning in otherwise healthy cats roaming free outdoors and known to be rodent hunters strongly correlated with confirmation of the diagnosis through toxicological analyses of serum samples. The collected feline exposure data regarding AC show together with the calculation of the intake of bait and subsequent AC concentrations in mice that secondary poisoning from ingestion of mice is possible. The results of the screening for AC metabolites in feline urine confirm that cats excrete AC both unchanged and metabolized through dechlorination, oxidation, glucuronidation and sulfatation pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 58-year-old female was admitted due to a suspected seizure. A blue colored pharyngeal fluid was visualized during intubation, which is indicative of poisoning. Clinical research revealed an ingestion of 2.4 g of alpha-chloralose, a rodenticide with a lethal dose of 1 g. Immediate detoxification by gastroscopy, gastric lavage and hemodialysis led to full recovery. Substance detection was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectometry of a urine sample. There are only a few cases reporting poisoning by this substance. Coma and bilateral myoclonus have been reported but blue gastric fluid as the "red flag" in this case has never been described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Four novel chloralose based ONO-tridentate chiral Schiff base dinuclear Cu(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized. • Anticancer activity of chloralose based dinuclear Cu(II) complexes were performed. • Dinuclear Cu(II) complexes exhibited promising in vitro antimicrobial activity. Abstract Four novel dinuclear Cu(II) complexes (1a – 4a) have been prepared from ONO-tridentate chiral Schiff base derivatives of chloralose (1 – 4). All the new complexes (1a – 4a) have been characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The complex 2a was further characterized by X-Ray crystallography. And also, the magnetic susceptibility measurement of this complex (2a , μ eff 2.61 BM/dimer) was measured at room temperature. The activities of ONO-tridentate chiral Schiff base derivatives of chloralose (1 – 4) and their dinuclear Cu(II) complexes (1a – 4a) on viability of human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) were investigated by MTT assay. The obtained results indicated that the Schiff base ligand 1 and its dinuclear Cu(II) complex (1a) have excellent cytotoxic activity. Also, dinuclear Cu(II) complexes of the galactochloralose and α-chloralose derivative Schiff base ligands were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against eight bacterial species as well as yeast species Candida albicans ATCC 10231 using disc diffusion method. Complex 4a exhibited promising in vitro antimicrobial activity with inhibition zone diameter from 10 to 22 mm against the tested Gram-positive bacterial strains and yeast C. albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adrien Armand Maurice Hanriot (1854-1933) was a French physician and chemist who studied in detail the preparation of glycerin derivatives, the substitution of hydrogen in hydrocarbons by alkali metals, physiological phenomena in human beings, in particular, the exchange phenomena in the respiratory system, the derivatives of strychnine, etc. Among his many discoveries we can mention the lipase in blood, chloralose and parachlorose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new chiral Schiff base ligands (3a-4a, 3b-4b) have been prepared using aminoisopropylidene derivatives of glucose and aminochloralose derivatives of mannose. The synthesized compounds 1 and 2 were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H and 13C NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV/visible spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. A total of eight Schiff base compounds (3a-6a, 3b-6b) were tested for antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 12228, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Klebsiella pneumoniae CCM 2318, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella typhimurium CCM 5445, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, and Candida albicans ATCC 10239 and exhibited a range of activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New furanoside-based NHC precursor salts (2) were synthesized using amino alcohols from the chloralose derivatives of glucose (a), galactose (b), and mannose (c). The novel compounds were fully characterized by ¹H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analyses. The catalytic activities of these salts were tested in the arylation of aldehydes as catalysts that were generated in situ from [RhCl(COD)] 2. In addition, 2a was converted to the rhodium complex 3a in order to compare the results obtained in situ. The newly synthesized compounds were very efficient in terms of yield; nevertheless they did not exhibit a chiral induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following binding to receptors in the arcuate nucleus (ArcN), insulin increases sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and baroreflex control of SNA via a pathway that includes the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN). Previous studies in males indicate that the sympathoexcitatory response is mediated by α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), which binds to PVN melanocortin type 3/4 receptors (MC3/4R). The present study was conducted in α-chloralose-anesthetized female rats to test the hypothesis that suppression of inhibitory neuropeptide Y (NPY) inputs to the PVN is also involved. In support of this, blockade of PVN NPY Y1 receptors with BIBO 3304 (NPY1x), ArcN insulin nanoinjections, and PVN NPY1x followed by ArcN insulin each increased lumbar SNA (LSNA) and its baroreflex regulation similarly. Moreover, prior PVN injections of NPY blocked the sympathoexcitatory effects of ArcN insulin. Finally, PVN nanoinjections of the MC3/4R inhibitor SHU9119 prevented both the acute (15 min) and longer, more slowly developing (60 min), increases in LSNA in response to ArcN insulin. In conclusion, in females, ArcN insulin increases LSNA, in part, by suppressing tonic PVN NPY inhibition, which unmasks excitatory α-MSH drive of LSNA. Moreover, the steadily increasing rise in LSNA induced by ArcN insulin is also dependent on PVN MC3/4R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional magnetic resonance imaging of mice requires that the physiology of the mouse (body temperature, respiration and heart rates, blood pH level) be maintained in order to prevent changes affecting the outcomes of functional scanning, namely blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) measures and cerebral blood flow (CBF). The anesthetic used to sedate mice for scanning can have major effects on physiology. While alpha chloralose has been commonly used for functional imaging of rats, its effects on physiology are not well characterized in the literature for any species. In this study, we anesthetized or sedated mice with isoflurane or alpha chloralose for up to two hours, and monitored physiological parameters and arterial blood gasses. We found that, when normal body temperature is maintained, breathing rates for both drugs decrease over the course of two hours. In addition, alpha chloralose causes a substantial drop in heart rate and blood pH with severe hypercapnia (elevated blood CO2) that is not seen in isoflurane-treated animals. We suggest that alpha chloralose does not maintain normal mouse physiology adequately for functional brain imaging outcome measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anticoagulant rodenticides are the largest group of poisons used to kill harmful rodents. Their fundamental mode of action consists in the inhibition of the vitamin K epoxide reductase, which causes blood-clotting alteration, ultimately leading to hemorrhagic events as the cause of death. In this study, we developed an UHPLC-MS-MS for the simultaneous determination of 10 anticoagulant hydroxycoumarine rodenticides, plus α-chloralose in human hair, with the scope of detecting potential trace of chronological poison exposure in clinical and forensic cases. The method was fully validated and applied to a case of intentional poisoning perpetrated by administration of difenacoum and α-chloralose to a 97-year old woman, who was hospitalized because of severe symptoms, including drowsiness, convulsions, pallor and hematoma. Hair sample from the victim was segmentally analyzed. Difenacoum was detected in the proximal 3-cm hair segment at the concentration of 2.9 pg/mg. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report that exposure to difenacoum is detectable in real hair samples. The other target analyte found in the hair sample was α-chloralose, which was detected in the 0-3 cm segment at the concentration of 85 pg/mg. The two subsequent and consecutive segments (3-6 cmand 6-9 cm) showed only traces of difenacoum (below LOQ) and low but quantifiable concentrations of α-chloralose (29 and 6 pg/mg, respectively). Therefore, hair segmental analysis allowed us to conclude that the victim was repeatedly exposed to two poisons in the period corresponding to the first segment of hair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the effect of chronic angiotensin (Ang II)-induced hypertension on activity of postganglionic renal sympathetic units to determine whether altered whole renal nerve activity is due to recruitment or changes in firing frequency. Rabbits were treated with a low (20 ng kg-1 min-1, 8 weeks) or high dose (50 ng kg-1 min-1, 4 weeks) of Ang II before the experiment under chloralose-urethane anaesthesia. Spontaneously active units were detected from multiunit recordings using an algorithm that separated units by action potential shape using templates that matched spikes within a prescribed standard deviation. Multiunit sympathetic nerve activity was 40% higher in rabbits treated with low-dose Ang II than in sham (P = 0.012) but not different in high-dose Ang II. Resting firing frequency was similar in sham rabbits (1.00 ± 0.09 spikes s-1, n = 144) and in those treated with high-dose Ang II (1.10 ± 0.08 spikes s-1, n = 112) but was lower with low-dose Ang II (0.65 ± 0.08 spikes s-1, n = 149, P < 0.05). Unit firing rhythmicity was linked to the cardiac cycle and was similar in sham and low-dose Ang II groups but 29-32% lower in rabbits treated with high-dose Ang II (P < 0.001). Cardiac linkage followed a similar pattern during hypoxia. All units showed baroreceptor dependency. Baroreflex gain and range were reduced and curves shifted to the right in Ang II groups. Firing frequency during hypoxia increased by +39% in low-dose Ang II and +82% in shams, but the greatest increase was in the high-dose Ang II group (+103%, Pdose = 0.001). Responses to hypercapnia were similar in all groups. Increases in sympathetic outflowinhypertension causedby low-dose chronicAngII administrationaredue torecruitment of neurons, but high-dose Ang II increases firing frequency in response to chemoreceptor stimuli independently of the arterial baroreceptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of chiral Schiff base ligands has been prepared using aminochloralose derivatives of glucose and galactose. These ligands were used as catalysts in the asymmetric Henry reaction in the presence of Cu(II) ions giving yields of up to 95%. An interesting solvent dependency on enantiomeric control was observed with the best enantiomeric excesses (up to 91%) being obtained in the presence of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is characterized by reversible reduction of spontaneous and evoked electrical activity of the cerebral cortex. Experimental evidence suggests that CSD may modulate neural excitability and synaptic activity, with possible implications for long-term potentiation. Systemic factors like anesthetics and insulin-induced hypoglycemia can influence CSD propagation. In this study, we examined whether the post-CSD ECoG potentiation can be modulated by anesthetics and insulin-induced hypoglycemia. We found that awake adult rats displayed increased ECoG potentiation after CSD, as compared with rats under urethane + chloralose anesthesia or tribromoethanol anesthesia. In anesthetized rats, insulin-induced hypoglycemia did not modulate ECoG potentiation. Comparison of two cortical recording regions in awake rats revealed a similarly significant ( p < 0.05) potentiation effect in both regions, whereas in the anesthetized groups the potentiation was significant only in the recording region nearer to the stimulating point. Our data suggest that urethane + chloralose and tribromoethanol anesthesia modulate the post-CSD potentiation of spontaneous electrical activity in the adult rat cortex, and insulin-induced hypoglycemia does not modify this effect. Data may help to gain a better understanding of excitability-dependent mechanisms underlying CSD-related neurological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although many studies have reported the influence of anesthetics on the shape of somatic evoked potential, none has evaluated the influence on the spatio-temporal pattern of neural activity in detail. It is practically impossible to analyze neural activities spatially, using conventional electrophysiological methods. Applying our multiple-site optical recording technique for measuring membrane potential from multiple-sites with a high time resolution, we compared the spatio-temporal pattern of the evoked activity under two different anesthetic conditions induced by urethane or α-chloralose. The somatic cortical response was evoked by electrical stimulation of the hindlimb, and the optical signals were recorded from the rat sensorimotor cortex stained with a voltage-sensitive dye (RH414). The evoked activity emerged in a restricted area and propagated in a concentric manner. The spatio-temporal pattern of the evoked activity was analyzed using isochrone maps. There were significant differences in the latency and propagation velocity of the evoked activity, as well as the full width at half maximum of optical signal between the two anesthetic conditions. Differences in the amplitude and the slope of the rising phase were not significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the use of a microelectrode array with a high spatial density of penetrating intrafascicular electrodes for selective recording of pudendal nerve activity evoked by a variety of genitourinary stimuli. Materials and Methods Felines were anesthetized with alpha-chloralose and high-density Utah slanted electrode arrays (48 microelectrodes; 200-μm spacing) were implanted into the pudendal nerve for acute experimentation. Neural activity was recorded during bladder filling, spontaneous reflexive distention-evoked bladder contractions, and tactile somatosensory stimulation. Results The intrafascicularly implanted pudendal nerve electrodes were able to selectively record neural activity that corresponded to various genitourinary stimuli. Across all seven experimental animals, a total of 10 microelectrodes recorded neural units that were selectively driven by bladder filling or distention-evoked bladder contractions. Twenty-two electrodes were selectively driven by tactile stimulation. Conclusion Microelectrode arrays implanted intrafascicularly into the pudendal nerve can be used to selectively record the neural responses that reflect bladder status and urogenital tactile stimulation. This work sets the stage for developing future implantable closed-loop neuroprosthetic devices for restoration of bladder function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiosemicarbazones(7–10)/semicarbazones(11–14) were synthesized in good yields via the condensation of α-gluco-, β-gluco-, galacto-, manno- chloralose derived 1,4-furanodialdoses (1-4) with thiosemicarbazide(5)/semicarbazide(6). The structures of all products were characterized by FTIR, NMR spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. The compounds have been found to display moderate antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and antifungal activity against a Candida albicans. MIC values of the compounds range from 260 to 1510 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A new glycopolymer was synthesized from a galactose carrying methacrylic monomer. [•] Various characteristics and thermal decomposition kinetics of resulting polymer have been investigated. [•] The most likely process mechanism related to thermal decomposition stage of glycopolymer was found as a deceleration type, D n in terms of master plots results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hexoses and two pentoses have been reacted with two equivalents of trichloroacetaldehyde using boron trifluoride etherate as promoter in dioxane at reflux. The major products are exo-1,2- O -trichloroethylidenealdofuranoses in every case in varying yields, identical to the products previously obtained in lower yields using sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid as promoter in trichloroacetaldehyde as solvent. Careful fractionation of the remainders of the product mixtures showed that the other isomer in the acetal ring was also produced in most cases but small amounts of the two 1,2- O -trichloroethylidenealdopyranose isomers were also produced. In addition, very small amounts of other products were identified that were derived from boron trifluoride etherate and the solvent. A mechanism involving rate-determining acetal ring closure was proposed to explain the formation of furanose derivatives, rather than pyranose derivatives. Methods for removal of the trichloroethylidene acetals were investigated for substituted derivatives and it was found that a process involving reduction with tributyltin hydride was effective. [Display omitted] • All monosaccharides react with chloral to give 1,2- O -trichloroethylideneglycofuranoses. • Two eq of chloral in dioxane with BF 3 as promoter gave better yields than chloral as solvent. • 1,2- O -trichloroethylideneglycopyranoses were obtained as minor products (0–5%). • Removal was done in good yield by reduction with tributyltin hydride then acetolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine whether duloxetine [a serotonin (5-HT)- norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor] combined with transcutaneous foot stimulation or WAY-100635 (a 5-HT1&Lgr; antagonist) can enhance inhibition of bladder overactivity in cats. Cystometrograms were performed on eight cats under ɑ-chloralose anesthesia by infusing saline and then 0.25% acetic acid (AA) to induce bladder overactivity. To inhibit bladder overactivity, foot stimulation (5 Hz) was applied via transcutaneous pad electrodes to the right hindfoot at two and four times the threshold intensity for inducing a toe twitch. Duloxetine (0.003-3 mg/kg) was administered intravenously to determine the effect of combination treatment. After the 3 mg/kg dose of duloxetine, WAY-100635 (0.5 mg/kg) was given intravenously. AA irritation significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced bladder capacity to 42.7 ± 7.4% of the saline control capacity. Foot stimulation alone at both two and four times the threshold intensity significantly (P < 0.0001) inhibited bladder overactivity and increased bladder capacity to 66.7 ± 6.3% and 85.7 ± 6.5% of the saline control, respectively. Duloxetine alone dose dependently inhibited bladder overactivity and completely restored bladder capacity to the saline control (109 ± 15.5%) at 3 mg/kg. Although duloxetine combined with foot stimulation did not further enhance inhibition, WAY-100635 (0.5 mg/kg) given after 3 mg/kg duloxetine further increased (P = 0.008) bladder capacity to 162.2 ± 22.5% of the saline control. Although duloxetine and foot stimulation independently inhibited bladder overactivity, combined treatment did not enhance inhibition. Duloxetine combined with WAY-100635, however, synergistically enhanced bladder inhibition, indicating a potential novel treatment for overactive bladder if duloxetine is combined with a 5-HT1&Lgr; receptor antagonist drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the prolongation of ventricular repolarization and proarrhythmic activity of antimalarial drug chloroquine in two rabbit proarrhythmia models viz., in vivo α1 adrenoceptor-stimulated anesthetized rabbit and ex vivo isolated Langendorff rabbit heart using clofilium as standard proarrhythmic agent. Materials and Methods: In the in vivo model, three groups of rabbits, anesthetized by pentobarbitone sodium and α-chloralose, sensitized with α1 agonist methoxamine followed by either continuous infusion of saline (control) or clofilium (3 mg/kg) or chloroquine (21 mg/kg) for 30 min. In ex vivo model, rabbit hearts were perfused with clofilium (10 μM) or chloroquine (300 μM) continuously after priming along with methoxamine, acetylcholine chloride and propranolol hydrochloride. Results: In these models, prolongation of repolarization during α1-adrenoceptor stimulation produced early after depolarization (EAD) and Torsade de pointes (TdP). Saline infusion did not induce any abnormality in the animals. Clofilium caused expected changes in the electrocardiogram in both the models including TdP (50.0% in in vivo and 66.67% in ex vivo). Chloroquine caused decrease in heart rate and increase in the corrected QT (QTc) interval in both the models. Further, apart from different stages of arrhythmia, TdP was evident in 33.33% in ex vivo model, whereas no TdP was observed in in vivo model. Conclusions: The results indicated that proarrhythmic potential of chloroquine and clofilium was well evaluated in both the models; moreover, both the models can be used to assess the proarrhythmic potential of the new drug candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the mechanisms underlying the effects of sacral neuromodulation on reflex bladder activity in chloralose-anesthetized cats. Bladder activity was recorded during cystometrograms (CMGs) or under isovolumetric conditions. An S1-S3 dorsal (DRT) or ventral root (VRT) was electrically stimulated at a range of frequencies (1-30 Hz) and at intensities relative to threshold (0.25-2T) for evoking anal/toe twitches. Stimulation of DRTs but not VRTs at 1T intensity and frequencies of 1-30 Hz inhibited isovolumetric rhythmic bladder contractions. A 5-Hz DRT stimulation during CMGs was optimal for increasing (P < 0.05) bladder capacity (BC), but stimulation at 15 and 30 Hz was ineffective. Stimulation of the S1 DRT was more effective (increases BC to 144% and 164% of control at 1T and 2T, respectively) than S2 DRT stimulation (increases BC to 132% and 150% of control). Bilateral transection of the hypogastric or pudendal nerves did not change the inhibitory effect induced by S1 DRT stimulation. Repeated stimulation of S1 and S2 DRTs during multiple CMGs elicited a significant (P < 0.05) increase in BC (to 155 ± 11% of control) that persisted after termination of the stimulation. These results in cats suggest that the inhibition of reflex bladder activity by sacral neuromodulation occurs primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting the ascending or descending pathways of the spinobulbospinal micturition reflex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of d-ribose with chloral in the presence of acid catalyst gives 1,2-O-(S)-trichloroethylidene-a-D-ribofuranose (1) (ß-ribochloralose). Some derivatives of this product (1) were synthesized to be used as an intermediate in carbohydrate chemistry. Tricyclic orthoester structure (3, 77%) was obtained from the reaction of 1 with potassium i-butoxide. This novel orthoester is expected to be useful as a glycosyl donor in the formations of new ribofuranoside units. 3-O-Methyl-ribochloralose (5) was synthesized in 75% yield via the methylation of 1. 5-O-Tosyl-ribochloralose (6, 61%) was prepared with monotosylation reaction of 1. Treatment of 6 with NaN3 in DMF gives a 5-azido-5-deoxy-ribochloralose (7) in 77% yield. The azidosugar (7) was reduced to 5-amino-5-deoxy-ribochloralose (8, 72%) with triphenylphosphine according to Staudinger's reduction procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In rats that had been anesthetized by urethane–chloralose, we investigated whether neurons in the rostral part of the parvicellular reticular formation (rRFp) mediate lingual nerve input to the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), which is involved in somato-visceral sensory integration and in controlling the cardiovascular system. We determined the effect of the lingual nerve stimulation on activity of the rRFp neurons that were activated antidromically by stimulation of the RVLM. Stimulation of the lingual trigeminal afferent gave rise to excitatory effects (10/26, 39%), inhibitory effects (6/26, 22%) and no effect (10/26, 39%) on the RVLM-projecting rRFp neurons. About two-thirds of RVLM-projecting rRFp neurons exhibited spontaneous activity; the remaining one-third did not. A half (13/26) of RVLM-projecting rRFp neurons exhibited a pulse-related activity, suggesting that they receive a variety of peripheral and CNS inputs involved in cardiovascular function. We conclude that the lingual trigeminal input exerts excitatory and/or inhibitory effects on a majority (61%) of the RVLM-projecting rRFp neurons, and their neuronal activity may be involved in the cardiovascular responses accompanied by the defense reaction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a case study of a 24-year old man who was found unconscious following vomiting. He was undergoing treatment for depression since 2007. He had started consuming mesterolone tablets prior two weeks before death. Toxicological analyses showed that death occurred due to drug overdose. It concludes acute chloralose intoxication as a result of death.

Abstract: Alien species can negatively affect global biodiversity, especially on islands. Significant advances in methods for eradicating mammals from islands have been achieved. In contrast, development of methods for eradicating birds from islands has lagged and few islands have had alien birds successfully eradicated. We report on a 7year campaign to remove rock pigeons from the Galapagos Islands. To date this is the largest successful eradication of an alien bird from an island system and the only eradication of rock pigeons from an island. Multiple methods were tested and used, including alpha-chloralose, however, shooting with a high-powered air rifle was the most efficient removal technique. Incorporating the support of the community and local agencies into the campaign was critical to the success of the project. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The synthesis of new α,β-unsaturated furanuronic acid derivatives of α-gluco- (3), β-gluco- (6) and β-manno-chloraloses (9) via a convenient one pot procedure using the Knoevenagel-Doebner reaction approach are described. The dialdofuranose derivatives were reacted with malonic acid under Knoevenagel-Doebner reaction conditions and (E)-α,β-unsaturated furanuronic acid derivatives were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: The aim of the work was to establish the impact of urethane–chloralose anaesthesia on pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK–PD) properties of carvedilol in control rats and l-NAME hypertensive animals. Methods: Male Wistar Rats were randomly divided into: control (n =12) with tap water to drink and L-NAME rats (n =12) with L-NAME solution (40 mg/kg/day) to drink for 2 weeks. Effects of carvedilol (1 mg kg−1, i.v.) on blood pressure and heart rate were recorded during 3 h in conscious and urethane (500 mg kg−1, i.p.) – chloralose (50 mg kg−1, i.p.) anaesthetized rats. Carvedilol plasma pharmacokinetics was studied by means of traditional blood sampling. PK–PD modeling of carvedilol was made by means of an effect compartment model. Results: Neither urethane–chloralose nor L-NAME modified estimation of pharmacokinetic parameters of carvedilol. Although urethane–chloralose did not modify potency of carvedilol comparing with awake animals in control and hypertensive group, maximal negative chronotropic response was significantly greater in anaesthetized L-NAME rats in comparison to awake animals. Conversely, anaesthesia did not modify maximal chronotropic response to carvedilol in control rats. Whilst no differences were found in the estimated potency of carvedilol hypotensive response comparing control and L-NAME rats in both awake and anaesthetized conditions, maximal hypotensive effect of carvedilol was significantly greater in anaesthetized control and L-NAME animals in comparison to conscious rats. L-NAME rats showed a greater maximal hypotensive response comparing to control group. Discussion: Urethane–chloralose anaesthesia is an acceptable experimental condition for the evaluation of PK–PD properties of carvedilol, considering that it does not affect the potency of carvedilol for its chronotropic and hypotensive effect. Conclusions obtained from urethane–chloralose anaesthetized animals, regarding the impact of l-NAME treatment on PK–PD properties of carvedilol, did not differ from those obtained from conscious animals. Anaesthesia did not modify pharmacokinetic behaviour of carvedilol in both normotensive and L-NAME hypertensive rats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Although anaesthetics are widely used to alleviate stress in endotoxaemic animals, these drugs themselves may interfere with the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The effects of LPS on serum glucose, biochemical markers of hepatic, renal and pancreatic exocrine function, and lung myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were compared using anaesthesia with either urethane/chloralose or pentobarbitone. Groups of 10–13 of C57B1/6 mice (22.3 ± 0.18 g) were treated with 40 mg/kg LPS or the same volume of saline (10 mL/kg, i.p.) at time 0, Animals were anaesthetized either with urethane (1000 mg/kg) and chloralose (50 mg/kg) or with pentobarbitone (90 mg/kg, i.p.) after 2 h and blood and lung samples obtained after 6 h. In pentobarbitone-anaesthetized mice, LPS caused hypoglycaemia and increased serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lipase and creatinine suggesting damage/dysfunction of liver, exocrine pancreas and kidney respectively. Lung tissue MPO activity, an indicator of neutrophil infiltration, was also increased. Urethane/chloralose-treated mice demonstrated hypoglycaemia and enhanced serum levels of ALT and creatinine in response to LPS, but failed to show LPS-induced increases in serum lipase and lung MPO activity. It is concluded that while pentobarbitone may be successfully used in experimental models of endotoxaemia in mice, anaesthesia with urethane and chloralose may protect mice against LPS-mediated damage/dysfunction in the exocrine pancreas and in the lung, and therefore, is not recommended in studies on endotoxaemic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-chloralose (AC) is an anaesthetic compound also used as a rodenticide, and has dose-dependent central nervous system mixed effects of excitation and depression. The objectives of this study were to detail the clinical and clinicopathological characteristics, as well as the treatment and prognosis, of AC toxicosis in dogs and cats. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for AC poisoning between the years 1989 and 2004, and 33 dogs and 13 cats were included in the study. The most common clinical signs were seizures, muscle tremor, hyperaesthesia, hypothermia, salivation, myosis, stupor, coma and ataxia. Coma was more common, while salivation and ataxia were less common in cats compared to dogs. Although hypothermia was very common, especially in cats (90.9%), hyperthermia was frequently observed in dogs (21%). Treatment in all patients was supportive and symptomatic, and the most commonly used anticonvulsants were diazepam and barbiturates; however, severe unresponsive seizures in three dogs had to be controlled with inhalant gas anaesthesia. The hospitalisation period was 1 3 days, and the overall mortality rate was 6.5%. Alpha-chloralose poisoning seems to have a favourable prognosis in dogs and cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A relatively rapid and specific method for the determination of chloralose in animal tissues by LCMSMS was developed. Isocratic reverse phase HPLC was used to introduce samples for electrospray negative ionisation tandem mass spectrometry. Methanol extracts were diluted to approximate the mobile phase composition, then filtered prior to analysis. Residues were identified by monitoring the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions of precursor ions mass:charge (m/z) 309 and 307 to a common m/z 161 product ion. Qualitative and quantitative confirmation data were acquired simultaneously by monitoring alternative MRM transitions. Calibration was linear over a working range of 0.025–1.3 μg/ml, and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 0.28 mg/kg for liver. The mean recovery was 88.5% from chicken muscle tissue fortified at 198–237 mg/kg, and ranged from 81.3 to 94.3% from liver tissue fortified at 1–52 mg/kg. The method is compared to a gas chromatography (GC) procedure previously employed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The preparation of 3,5-(E)-dieno-3,5,6,8-tetradeoxy-(S)-1,2-O-trichloroethylidene-α-d-glycero-octo-1,4-furano-7-ulose starting from either 1,2-O-(S)-trichloroethylidene-α-d-glucofuranose (β-chloralose) or 1,2-O-(S)-trichloroethylidene-α-d-galactofuranose (galactochloralose) and the preparation of methyl 3,5-(E)-dieno-3,5,6-trideoxy-(S)-1,2-O-trichloroethylidene-α-d-glycero-hepta-1,4-furano-uronate starting from β-chloralose are described. Endocyclic double bond formations were realised by the elimination of 3-acetoxy groups using DMF–sodium bicarbonate. This elimination was not successful when the starting compound was 1,2-O-(R)-trichloroethylidene-α-d-glucofuranose (α-chloralose), where the trichloromethyl group occupies the endo position. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We report a case of an accidental intoxication in a 20-month-old boy resulting from the ingestion of a rodenticide containing alpha-chloralose. Case report. – Three hours after initial admission to the pediatric emergency department for wheezing bronchitis, this patient was readmitted with a clinical presentation of respiratory insufficiency, a Glasgow coma score of 9 alternating with agitation, areflexia and unilateral mydriasis. Parental interview revealed he had episodes of shaking in the afternoon. Chest x-ray showed thoracic distension. Blood investigations, electrocardiogram, cardiac echography, brain CT scan and CSF were normal. Electroencephalography registered slow delta waves 2–3 cycles/min and an aspect of degraded waves and spikes. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit where he fully recovered within 48 hours. A second parental interview and clinical presentation confirmed an intoxication with a rodenticide containing alpha-chloralose. The late clinical orientation did not allow us to perform a urinanalysis. Discussion. – Clinical association of coma, spontaneous or triggered myoclonias and bronchial hypersecretion are indicative of chloralose intoxication. Presence of specific abnormalities on electroencephalogram and a positive Fujiwara-Ross reaction in an urine sample are additional elements for the diagnosis. The prognosis is usually good after early management which combines gastric lavage, activated charcoal, sedation with benzodiazepines, tracheal intubation and artificial ventilation if required. Severe clinical cases described in voluntary intoxications in adults and teenagers occur very rarely in toddlers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chloralose poisoning especially leads to consciousness failure and hyperexcitability with typical myoclonic jerks. In an observation of chloralose poisoning by ingestion of synthetic substance against moles, curarization by cistracurium besylate was proposed to contribute in the symptomatic treatment of myoclonus syndrome induced by chloralose poisoning and resistant to a large dose of diazepam. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Time- and vehicle-related variability of bladder and urethral rhabdosphincter (URS) activity as well as cardiorespiratory and blood chemistry values were examined in the acetic acid-induced bladder irritation model in α-chloralose-anesthetized female cats. Additionally, bladder and urethra were evaluated histologically using Mason trichrome and toluidine blue staining. Urodynamic, cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were collected during intravesical saline infusion followed by acetic acid (0.5%) to irritate the bladder. One hour after starting acetic acid infusion, a protocol consisting of a cystometrogram, continuous infusion-induced rhythmic voiding contractions, and a 5 min “quiet period” (bladder emptied without infusion) was precisely repeated every 30 minutes. Administration of vehicle (saline i.v.) occurred 15 minutes after starting each of the first 7 cystometrograms and duloxetine (1mg/kg i.v.) after the 8th. Acetic acid infusion into the bladder increased URS-EMG activity, bladder contraction frequency, and decreased contraction amplitude and capacity, compared to saline. Bladder activity and URS activity stabilized within 1 and 2 hours, respectively. Duloxetine administration significantly decreased bladder contraction frequency and increased URS-EMG activity to levels similar to previous reports. Cardiorespiratory parameters and blood gas levels remained consistent throughout the experiment. The epithelium of the bladder and urethra were greatly damaged and edema and infiltration of neutrophils in the lamina propria of urethra were observed. These data provide an ample evaluation of the health of the animals, stability of voiding function and appropriateness of the model for testing drugs designed to evaluate lower urinary tract as well as cardiovascular and respiratory systems function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]