Phenyloxazoles and phenylthiazoles as benzamide bioisosteres: synthesis and dopamine receptor binding profiles

Conformationally restricted benzamide bioisosteres were investigated when the aminomethylpyrrolidine derivative 4o proved D3 as well as D4 binding properties which were comparable to those of the atypical neuroleptics sulpiride and clozapine, respectively.

Azepino- and diazepinoindoles: synthesis and dopamine receptor binding profiles

Starting from the readily available building blocks 7, 10, 11, and 15, the synthesis of the fused indoles 1, 2, 5, and 6, respectively, is reported. The syntheses involved Pictet-Spengler cyclizations, Michael addition reactions, lactamization, directed metallation, and reductive amination as the key reaction steps. Radioligand displacement studies comprising the dopamine receptor subtypes D1, D2long D2short, D3, and D4.4 were performed when the diazepinoindole 6 revealed D1 and D4 affinities (Ki = 0.11 microM and 1.7 microM, respectively) which are comparable to the partial D1 agonist SKF 38393 (3b). In contrast to the benzazepine 3b, the indole based test compounds turned out less selective over the D2 and D3 receptor subtype.

Conjugated enynes as nonaromatic catechol bioisosteres: synthesis, binding experiments, and computational studies of novel dopamine receptor agonists recognizing preferentially the D(3) subtype

To evaluate nonaromatic catechol bioisosteres, the conformationally restrained enynes 1 and enediynes 2 were synthesized via palladium-catalyzed coupling as the key reaction step. Subsequent receptor binding studies at the dopamine receptor subtypes D(1), D(2 long), D(2 short), D(3), and D(4) showed highly interesting binding profiles for the enynes 1a and 1b when compared to dopamine. At the guanine nucleotide-sensitive high-affinity binding site of the D(3) receptor, the target compound 1b (K(i) = 5.2 nM) was 10-fold more potent than dopamine but less potent at the D(2) and D(4) subtypes. In contrast to dopamine the agonists 1a and 1b showed strong selectivity for the receptors of the D(2) family (D(2)-D(4)). As far as we know, this study represents the first report on nonaromatic dopamine agonists. Comparison of molecular electrostatic potentials, derived from semiempirical molecular orbital calculations, and lipophilicity maps was performed.

Piperidinylpyrroles: design, synthesis and binding properties of novel and selective dopamine D4 receptor ligands

Piperidinylpyrroles of type 3 were synthesized through a modified Paal-Knorr reaction. For the introduction of pyrrole-substituents high yielding transformations including Sonogashira cross-coupling reactions were utilized. Employment of the reagent TosMIC gave access to the regioisomeric oxazolyl derivatives 7 and 11 which showed the highest dopamine D4 receptor binding of the series investigated.

Selective insect antifeedant and toxic action of ryanoid diterpenes

In this work, we have studied the antifeedant and insecticidal effects of several natural ryanoid diterpenes. These compounds can be classified in two groups according to their chemical structures: ryanodol/isoryanodol-type (nonalkaloidal type) and ryanodine-type (alkaloidal type) ryanoids. The nonalkaloidal ryanoids were isolated from Persea indica (Lauraceae) while the alkaloidal ryanoids (ryanodines and spiganthines) were isolated from Spigelia anthelmia (Loganiaceae). The effects of these compounds on the feeding behavior and performance (with and without piperonyl butoxide pretreatment) of Spodoptera littoralis larvae and Leptinotarsa decemlineata adults indicate that some strongly deterred these insects, L. decemlineata being less sensitive than S. littoralis. Their antifeedant effects did not parallel their toxic action. Additionally, more than 60% of the nonalkaloidal ryanoids were antifeedants and/or toxic in contrast to 30% of active alkaloidal ones, supporting the hypothesis of a ryanodol-specific mode of action in insects.

2,2-Dicyanovinyl as a nonaromatic aryl bioisostere: synthesis, binding experiments and SAR studies of highly selective dopamine D4 receptor ligands

The phenylpiperazinylmethyl substituted pyrrolylmethylenemalononitriles of type 3 and 4 were synthesized and evaluated as strong and selective dopamine D4 receptor ligands.

Enantio- and diastereocontrolled dopamine D1, D2, D3 and D4 receptor binding of N-(3-pyrrolidinylmethyl)benzamides synthesized from aspartic acid

Subreceptor selectivity tuning of N-(3-pyrrolidinyl)benzamides leading to the selective dopamine D3 ligand ent1h and the derivatives 1g and 1e/ent1e which preferably recognize human D2 or D4 receptors, respectively, is described. Binding profiles were controlled by both, absolute and relative configuration. The enantiopure target compounds were synthesized from aspartic acid.

Azaindole derivatives with high affinity for the dopamine D4 receptor: synthesis, ligand binding studies and comparison of molecular electrostatic potential maps

Piperazinylmethyl substituted pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridines and related heterocycles were synthesized and found to recognize selectively the dopamine D4 receptor. For the most potent derivative 10d a Ki value of 2.0 nM was observed. SAR studies including the comparison of molecular isopotential surfaces were performed.

[Aberration of somatic karyotype in normozoospermic males from infertile couples]

During the complex investigation of couple infertility, a group of 40 normozoospermic males having low density of semen was selected. Cytogenetic analysis revealed 2 cases of somatic karyotype aberrations: 47,XYY and 46,XY,t(14;19), and 2 cases of chromosomal polymorphisms: 46,XYq+ i 46,XY,14p+. In the article the mechanism of fertility disturbances evoked by these findings is discussed in aspects of the function of spermatozoa and its genetic material content.

[Functional and esthetic blepharoplasty]

Functional blepharoplasty is characterized by both esthetic and functional impairment. Proper management requires a meticulous preoperative analysis with special regard to brow position, lid crease and lid fold, levator function, tightness of the canthal ligaments, tarsal plate and orbital septum, because these factors will determine the kind and extent of the operation. In the upper lid the incision depends on the individual situation, while in the lower lid it is routinely done subciliarly. Symmetry should be achieved in each case with regard to several safety guidelines in order to prevent complications.

Cholestane- and pregnane-type glycosides from the roots of Tribulus cistoides

From the methanolic extract of the roots of Tribulus cistoides the cardioactive saponin-3, which is known to occur in the leaves, was isolated along with tribulosin, a pregnane-type glycoside and eight new cholestane glycosides. D-(+)-Pinitol and sucrose were major constituents. The structures were established by spectroscopic studies of the isolated compounds, their acetylated derivatives and their hydrolysation products. Chemical conversions revealed the configurations at C-22 and C-25, respectively.

-Chemosensitivity testing in gynecologic oncology. Experiences with an ATP bioluminescence assay-

In the present study, our first experiences with the ATP Tumour Chemosensitivity Assay (ATP-TCA), a novel method for pretherapeutic drug testing, are reported. During one year, a total of 111 samples obtained from patients suffering from different gynaecological malignancies (ovary: 53, breast: 41, others: 17) were sent for chemosensitivity testing. The quality of 104 single cell suspensions was sufficient for further processing. Evaluability rates ranged from 71% (breast cancers and non-ovarian tumours) to 83% (ovarian cancers) with an average of 77%. Evaluability of recurrences was slightly better compared to primaries. A total of 18 different antineoplastic agents and 67 drug combinations was used for in vitro testing with an average of 12.4 drugs/combinations tested per each sample (ovary: 14.8, breast: 9.7, others: 10.2). In 70 of 111 cases, the ATP-TCA was followed by chemotherapy with 44 cases treated in respect of the assay results and 29 cases receiving an antineoplastic regime, which differed from the standard treatment protocol. Compared to untreated patients, recurrences were treated more frequently based on the ATP-TCA, with a majority receiving an alternative protocol as proposed by the assay. In ovarian carcinoma, chemosensitivity testing was of particular importance for the further therapy. 41 of 53 patients were treated by chemotherapy with 29 therapies basing on the results of the assay (alternative protocol: 17). The good correlation of the ATP-TCA and the individual clinical course of the patients was demonstrated by two case reports of recurrent ovarian carcinomas, one of them responding well to platinum-based combinations and the other presenting in vitro and in vivo platinum-resistance. In conclusion, our first experiences with the ATP-TCA were promising. Our results, however, warrant confirmation by studies with a sufficient number of cases and an extended observation period.

Spiganthine, the cardioactive principle of Spigelia anthelmia

Spiganthine [1] was isolated as the main cardioactive principle from medicinally used extracts of Spigelia anthelmia. Its structure was established by spectroscopic methods. The biological effect of spiganthine is characterized by a delay in contraction development of the heart muscle.

In vitro activity of titanocenedichloride versus cisplatin and doxorubicin in primary and recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Titanocenedichloride (MKT 4) is a new antineoplastic metal complex with proven activity in several experimental tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the present study, the cytotoxic activity of titanocenedichloride in fourteen primary and twelve recurrent ovarian carcinomas (OvCA) was evaluated by an in vitro adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay.

RESULTS

In primary tumors, MKT 4 was found to be at least as effective as cisplatin (DDP) and doxorubicin (DOX). In samples derived from pretreated patients, titanocenedichloride was even more active. In both groups of tumors, a lack of cross resistance between the two metal compounds as well as between MKT 4 and DOX was apparent. The new agent was found to be active in eight of seventeen DDP-resistant (primaries: n = 4; recurrences n = 4) and also eight of seventeen DOX-resistant tumors (primaries: n = 4; recurrences n = 4).

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate a remarkable in vitro activity of titanocenedichloride in native OvCA specimens, even in those exhibiting resistance against cisplatin or doxorubicin. The putative role of this novel drug for the future therapy of OvCA should be evaluated by additional in vitro and in vivo studies.

[Orbital exenteration. A preventable course in tumor treatment?!]

We reviewed the conditions leading to the mutilating procedure of orbital exenteration in 24 patients at our institution between 1980 and 1993. In 17 cases, including 16 of 17 patients with malignant tumours of the eyelid, this operation could potentially have been avoided. Three of these 17 patients first saw a doctor at an extremely advanced and otherwise untreatable stage of the tumour. The other 14 patients had at least one previous treatment attempt. Six patients with basal cell carcinoma had been primarily treated with radiation alone; two of them developed a squamous cell carcinoma subsequently. In six cases primary reconstruction was performed despite incomplete resection. In one patient a meibomian gland carcinoma was misdiagnosed as a chalazion and excised without histological examination. In another case of squamous cell carcinoma a cutaneous incisional biopsy 6 months prior to orbital exenteration revealed a papilloma. These results emphasize the necessity of careful histological examination in the treatment of lid tumours.

[Resection of the Müller muscle. Indications, technique and results]

From 1987 to 1992, 582 operations for blepharoptosis were performed in our department. Twenty-five cases of superior tarsal muscle resection in 22 patients were reviewed retrospectively and serve as the basis of the present study. The blepharoptosis was mild to moderate (up to 4 mm) in 20/25 cases. Preoperatively, the phenylephrine eye drops test was positive in 20/25 cases. The indication for both congenital and acquired blepharoptosis was independent of the activity of the levator muscle. The resection was performed by a conjunctival approach. Three techniques of muscle stump refixation were tested without any significant difference in the results. A satisfactory eyelid elevation of more than 2 mm was achieved in 16/25 operations. A moderate effect (1-2 mm) was measured in 5/25 and an unsatisfactory effect (< 1 mm) in 4/25 cases. In contrast to the Fasanella-Servat procedure, the above-mentioned technique leaves all other structures of the upper eyelid intact, especially the accessory lacrimal glands.

In vitro activity of titanocenedichloride in human renal cell carcinoma compared to conventional antineoplastic agents

In the present study, the in vitro activity of titanocenedichloride, a novel anticancer metal complex, in eleven primary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) specimens was evaluated by an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay. Compared to standard antineoplastic agents such as cisplatin, doxorubicin, mitoxantrone and vinblastine, titanocenedichloride was found to exhibit higher cytotoxicity. Four tumors showed strong sensitivity to the new agent. Three of them were resistant to conventional cytostatics. These findings indicated a lack of cross-resistance between titanocenedichloride and both natural compounds as well as platin analogues. Since mitoxantrone was also found to exhibit marked antineoplastic activity with no evidence of cross-resistance to titanocenedichloride, the combination of both drugs in RCC should be evaluated further with additional in vitro studies.

Cardioactive steroid saponins and other constituents from the aerial parts of Tribulus cistoides

From the petrol extract of the aerial parts of Tribulus cistoides three steroid sapogenins and two N-acyltyramines were isolated, whereas the methanolic extract gave nine steroid saponins, among them the cardioactive cistocardin, saponin-3, saponin-4 and saponin-7. Furthermore, a furostanol diglycoside was isolated besides 5'-(hydroxysulphonyloxy) jasmonic acid, D-(+)-pinitol and sucrose. The structures were established by spectroscopic investigations of the isolated compounds and their hydrolysis products. 5'-(Hydroxysulphonyloxy) jasmonic acid has been prepared by partial synthesis.

Effects of calcipotriol (MC 903) and calcitriol after topical application on the skin of hairless rats. Much lower effect of calcipotriol on systemic calcium homeostasis

Topical application of calcitriol or its analogs is a new approach for treating psoriasis, but may be limited by systemic calcitropic effects. Calcipotriol (MC 903) is a novel calcitriol analog with low calcitropic potency after systemic application. To compare the topical potency of calcitriol and calcipotriol we applied the two drugs on the right flanks of hairless rats for 10 days. In concentrations of 0.001-0.01 g/100 ml (ethanol) the two drugs are equally effective in inducing changes in the horny layer of the skin (increase in the amount of horny material that is able to be desquamated). This can be interpreted as a stimulation of terminal keratinocyte differentiation. However, only calcitriol caused a significant rise in the serum calcium concentration. In conclusion, calcitriol and calcipotriol seem to be equally effective after topical application on the skin of hairless rats, but calcipotriol has a much lower systemic calcium liability.

[The use of ionizing radiation for the decontamination of salmonella-containing slaughtered broiler chickens and powdered eggs]

The effect of cobalt-60 gamma irradiation was investigated on the concentration of Salmonella (S.) typhimurium in artificial contaminated chicken carcasses and on the number of S. tennessee and S. agona in artificial contaminated spray-dried whole egg powder and liquid whole egg. Irradiation of carcasses and of liquid whole egg was carried out at deep frozen conditions between -10 degrees C and -18 degrees C and whole egg powder at 15-20 degrees C. The irradiation doses used where between 0.05 and 8.0 KGy. The D10-value of S. typhimurium in broiler chicks ranged between 0.57 and 0.74 and of S. agona respectively S. tennessee amounted to 0.95 and 1.07 in spray dried whole egg powder and 0.47 respectively 0.53 in whole egg content. Irradiation causes drastic reduction of physiological microflora in chicken carcasses. By radiation treatment using a dose of 4.0 KGy, germ count reductions by 3-5 decimal powers were achieved. Resistance of microbes increases in following succession: Pseudomonas spp., Salmonella spp., other Enterobacteriaceae spp., Micrococcus spp., Flavobacterium spp., yeasts, Bacillus spp., Streptomyces spp., fungi. Results of microbiological and sensorial examinations allow following conclusions: 1. Irradiation is highly effective against Salmonella. 2. Irradiation dose of 4.0 KGy is able to kill about 1 Million Salmonella bacteria per chicken. This guarantees safe elimination of natural occurring Salmonella bacteria in broiler chicken carcasses. 3. Irradiation of chicken carcasses up to 4.0 KGy causes no injury of quality, however storage longer than 4 months deteriorates sensorial qualities more than of unirradiated carcasses.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Modified full-lid transplants ("tarsomarginal transplants") in reconstructive eyelid surgery]

The author first used modified full-thickness lid grafts (tarsomarginal grafts) in lid reconstruction in 1972. They consist of only conjunctiva, tarsus, and lid margin. The anterior lid lamella is rebuilt by a myocutaneous flap from the adjacent tissue. As compared to conventional full-thickness lid grafts, this reduces the risk of necrosis. No cosmetic or functional disturbance of donor eyelids was observed. In cases of total lid loss up to three tarsomarginal grafts can be inserted simultaneously. The use of modified full-thickness grafts is superior to other well-known techniques, especially in cases with defects of the medial half of the lower lid and upper lid defects, up to and including total upper lid loss, even if the tarsus in the grafts is subject to regressive changes and the lashes are usually lost.

[Bullous dermatosis with conjunctival and corneal involvement: differential diagnostic scope and explanation of the "overlap syndrome" concept]

Chronic blister-forming dermatosis can lead to conjunctival and corneal involvement. Taking one such case as an example, the authors show that while disorders of this kind can be classified as a form of bullous dermatosis, the differential diagnostic classification is not unequivocal, regardless of the examination method adopted. The term "overlay syndrome" has been introduced into the dermatologic literature to cover clinical pictures of this kind.

Induction of chromosomal aberrations in the Syrian hamster by insecticides tested in vivo

The insecticides demeton, dimetoat, dichlorovos, endosulfan, trichlorofon, carbaryl, lindane, methoxychlor, propoxur and malathion were examined for their ability to induce chromosomal aberrations in the bone marrow cells of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) treated in vivo. Mutagenicity of commercial preparations was examined at four doses: LD50; 1/2, 1/5 and 1/10 LD50. The positive control was an IP injection of cyclophosphamide to hamsters at a dose of 40 mg/kg body wt. Demeton, dichlorovos and endosulfan gave positive results. Malathion, dimethoate and the mixture of methoxychlor and propoxur were weakly clastogenic; at some doses these compounds induced statistically significant increases in the number of aberrations. Trichlorfon and the mixture of carbaryl and lindane were negative in this test.

Ovarian hyperstimulation for in-vitro fertilization controlled by GnRH agonist administered in combination with human menopausal gonadotrophins

Surges of luteinizing hormone (LH) in serum that result in luteinization, but occur prematurely with respect to the diameter of the leading follicle, frustrate attempts to induce multiple follicular maturation for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in a number of women. We examined the possibility of blocking premature LH surges by the administration of D-TRP6-LH-RH, a potent agonistic analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Six patients who had repeatedly shown premature LH surges were treated for 10 days, beginning between days 1 and 3 of the cycle with daily s.c. injections of 500 micrograms D-Trp6-LH-RH followed by a daily injection of 100 micrograms of the analogue until the day of administration of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG). When pituitary and ovarian suppression had occurred, ovarian stimulation with human menopausal gonadotrophin was started and adjusted in dose according to the ovarian response. HCG was injected when the dominant follicle had reached a diameter of at least 18 mm and oestradiol levels were above 300 pg for each follicle greater than 15 mm. Oocyte collection was performed 36 h later via laparoscopy, followed by IVF and embryo transfer. The six patients studied to date responded to therapy and treatment could be completed up to embryo transfer. Two patients became pregnant; one of the pregnancies, however, resulted in abortion. Combined treatment with GnRH analogue for suppression of pituitary gonadotrophin secretion followed by the administration of gonadotrophins thus seems to be a promising method for ovarian stimulation in patients who frequently exhibit premature LH discharges and therefore fail to complete treatment.

[Treatment of life-threatening digoxin poisoning with heterologous digoxin-specific antibody fragments]

A 72-year-old woman was admitted to hospital four hours after taking, with suicidal intent, 20 mg digoxin (100 tablets Novodigal) and 50 mg nitrazepam (10 tablets Mogadan). No digoxin tablet residues were found on gastroscopic gastric lavage. A pacemaker was placed transvenously into the apex of the right ventricle. Multifocal ventricular premature systoles and recurrent ventricular fibrillation, which was difficult to terminate, alternating with extreme bradycardia quickly responded to the administration of heterologous digoxin-specific antibodies. Five hours after treatment had been started (total dose 800 mg antibody fragments) the patient again had a stable sinus rhythm of normal rate.

Effects of bromide on behaviour of mice

Groups of mice, housed individually in standard cages placed in a frame especially designed for the recording of locomotive behaviour, were fed diets containing sodium bromide at a level of 0, 400, 1200, 3600 or 10,800 ppm for 36 days. A fully automated system was used to record and process measurements of the nocturnal motility of the mice, together with three other variables (evasion time, spontaneous treadmill performance and body weight), for a total of 128 days before, during and after administration of the test diets. The data obtained, analysed statistically by univariate and multivariate analysis of variance, indicated that for sodium bromide, the 'effect limit' based on behavioural variables and body weight lay for mice between 400 and 1200 ppm in the diet. The fact that the overall effect of the 10,800 ppm dietary level was not completely reversible seemed to be largely attributable to the effect of this level of sodium bromide administration on body weight.

[Intravenous administration of anti-D hyperimmunoglobulin after mismatched transfusion (author's transl)]

620 ml of 0 Rh-positive blood (310 ml CCD.ee + 310 ml CcD.EE) were administered to a 27-year-old 0 Rh-negative (ccddee) woman in connection with an emergency curettage. 16 hours after this mismatched transfusion an intravenous infusion of anti-D hyperimmunoglobulin was started: 8000 mug (13 mug/ml blood) were given within 14 hours (570 mug/h) under strict supervision. The 10% immunoglobulin preparation had been diluted 20 times. There were only slight variations in heart rate and blood pressure, slight fever and mild increase in serum bilirubin after the infusion. There was slight haemoglobinuria in one urine sample, but no signs of kidney damage. The direct Coombs test was slightly positive after two days, negative after four and six days. The indirect Coombs test was negative after six months. The patient has not become pregnant since. Slow intravenous infusion of highly diluted anti-D hyperimmunoglobulin, under strict clinical supervision, is probably appropriate for Rh prophylaxis after transfusion mismatch. The dose of 13 mug/ml could probably be considerably reduced. 250 mug anti-D per hour should not be exceeded.

[Reconstruction of the medical canthal area (author's transl)]

Defects of the medial canthal area with partial full-thickness loss of the upper and lower eye-lid can be repaired by the following technique: closure of the larger lid defect by a free transplant of tarsus and lid margin from the opposite lower lid and a sliding skin flap. The minor lid defect is closed by a pedicled tarso-conjunctival flap and a free or sliding skin graft.

[Reconstruction of the upper eyelid (author's transl)]

An excellent rebuilding after complete or nearly complete loss of the upper eyelid can be performed by the following technique: Replacement of lid margin, tarsus and conjunctiva by two free grafts from the right and left lower lid, while the skin-muscle-layer is replaced by a pedicle skin graft.

[Closure of eyelid defects by transplantation of lid margin and tarsus (author's transl)]

An excellent repair of large eyelid defects can be obtained by the following procedure: reconstruction of the skin-surface by a sliding or rotating graft, while the lid margin and tarsus are rebuilt by a free transplant from the opposite lower lid. For upper eyelid defects a special incision was developed.

A female infant with monosomy 21

A female infant with total monosomy 21 identified by Q banding is described. The main clinical features were hypertonia, prominent occiput, hypertelorism, antimongoloid slant of the eyes, broad nose, "antimongoloid", character of dermatoglyphics. Both parents are phenotypically as well as karyotypically normal.

[The effect of atenolol on contractility and hemodynamics of the infarcted heart in comparison to propranolol and practolol (author's transl)]

In animals without myocardial infarction the new beta-sympathicolytic agent atenolol (4-[2'-hydroxy-3'-iso-propylaminopropoxy]-phenyl acetamide, ICI 66 082) dose-dependently decreased heart rate, systolic aortic pressure and cardiac output. Coronary mean flow, coronary resistance, stroke volume, left ventricular enddiastolic pressure and total peripheral vascular resistance did not change significantly. Atenolol significantly reduced myocardial contractility, expressed by (dp/dtmax), Vpm, t-(dp/dtmax) and pre-ejection period. Furthermore, the comparative studies in animals with myocardial infarction and concomitant reduced cardial efficiency revealed, that atenolol has neither a positive intrinsic activity as has practolol nor a negative intrinsic activity as has propranolol. The dose-contractility relation of atenolol resembles that of practolol: in low dosages a strong decrease is achieved, in higher dosages no further reduction of the contractility parameters is observed. Because of the strong negative inotropic and blood pressure lowering effect it is suggested to use atenolol only with great caution in patients with reduced cardiac efficiency.