Discovery of Novel Steroid-Based Histamine H3 Receptor Antagonists/Inverse Agonists

Steroid-based histamine H3 receptor antagonists (d-homoazasteroids) were designed by combining distinct structural elements of HTS hit molecules. They were characterized, and several of them displayed remarkably high affinity for H3 receptors with antagonist/inverse agonist features. Especially, the 17a-aza-d-homolactam chemotype demonstrated excellent H3R activity together with significant in vivo H3 antagonism. Optimization of the chemotype was initiated with special emphasis on the elimination of the hERG and muscarinic affinity. Additionally, ligand-based SAR considerations and molecular docking studies were performed to predict binding modes of the molecules. The most promising compounds (XXI, XXVIII, and XX) showed practically no muscarinic and hERG affinity. They showed antagonist/inverse agonist property in the in vitro functional tests that was apparent in the rat in vivo dipsogenia test. They were considerably stable in human and rat liver microsomes and provided significant in vivo potency in the place recognition and novel object recognition cognitive paradigms.

A preoperative ultrasound-based protocol for optimisation of fluid therapy to prevent early intraoperative hypotension: a randomised controlled study

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative hypotension is a risk factor for postoperative complications. Preoperative dehydration is a major contributor, although it is difficult to estimate its severity. Point-of-care ultrasound offers several potential methods, including measurements of the inferior vena cava. The addition of lung ultrasound may offer a safety limit. We aimed to evaluate whether the implication of an ultrasound-based preoperative fluid therapy protocol can decrease the incidence of early intraoperative hypotension.

METHODS

Randomised controlled study in a tertiary university department involves elective surgical patients of ASA 2-3 class, scheduled for elective major abdominal surgery under general anaesthesia with intubation. We randomised 40-40 patients; 38-38 were available for analysis. Conventional fluid therapy was ordered on routine preoperative visits. Ultrasound-based protocol evaluated the collapsibility index of inferior vena cava and lung ultrasound profiles. Scans were performed twice: 2 h and 30 min before surgery. A high collapsibility index (≥ 40%) indicated a standardised fluid bolus, while the anterior B-profile of the lung ultrasound contraindicated further fluid. The primary outcome was the incidence of postinduction and early intraoperative (0-10 min) hypotension (MAP < 65 mmHg and/or ≥ 30% of decrease from baseline). Secondary endpoints were postoperative lactate level, urine output and lung ultrasound score at 24 h.

RESULTS

The absolute criterion of postinduction hypotension was fulfilled in 12 patients in the conventional group (31.6%) and 3 in the ultrasound-based group (7.9%) (p = 0.0246). Based on composite criteria of absolute and/or relative hypotension, we observed 17 (44.7%) and 7 (18.4%) cases, respectively (p = 0.0136). The incidence of early intraoperative hypotension was also lower: HR for absolute hypotension was 2.10 (95% CI 1.00-4.42) in the conventional group (p = 0.0387). Secondary outcome measures were similar in the study groups.

CONCLUSION

We implemented a safe and effective point-of-care ultrasound-based preoperative fluid replacement protocol into perioperative care.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered to ClinicalTrials.gov on 10/12/2021, registration number: NCT05171608 (registered prospectively on 10/12/2021).

Low level of perfectionism as a possible risk factor for suicide in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Introduction

Previous research highlighted that adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are four times as vulnerable to suicidal behavior as the healthy population. Maladaptive perfectionism is also viewed as an important risk factor for suicide. Yet, there are no studies which focused on the relationship between perfectionism and suicide among adolescents with ADHD.

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to explore if perfectionism may be a risk factor for suicidal behavior in adolescents with ADHD.

Methods

The clinical group was recruited from outpatient clinics, while the non-clinical group was recruited from high schools around Hungary. The clinical group’s inclusion criterion was ADHD diagnoses, while the non-clinical group required the absence of any current or past psychiatric treatment or diagnoses.

Results

In the ADHD group 88 adolescents participated, and 96 adolescents participated in the non-clinical group. There was no difference regarding the level of perfectionism in the groups, except one dimension of perfectionism, which is ‘Organization’. The ADHD group had significantly higher level of suicidal behavior than the control group ((χ2 (1) = 11.222, p < .001, V = 0.25). Among the ADHD group adaptive perfectionism was significantly negatively correlated with suicidal behaviour.

Conclusions

Adolescents with ADHD did not have a different level of perfectionism than the healthy control group only in ‘Organization’ trait. This result could add to the therapeutic work with adolescents diagnosed with ADHD with underlining the importance to focus on organizational skills. The result highlights that adaptive perfectionism appears to be a protective factor against suicidality.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Therapeutic Properties of Ayahuasca Components in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury of the Eye

Ischemic eye diseases are major causes of vision impairment. Thus, potential retinoprotective effects of N’N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) were investigated. To inhibit its rapid breakdown by monoamine-oxidase A (MAO-A) enzyme, DMT was co-administered with harmaline, a β-carboline in the Amazonian Ayahuasca brew. Using ligation, 60 min of ischemia was provoked in eyes of rats, followed by 7 days of reperfusion whilst animals received harmaline alone, DMT + harmaline, or vehicle treatment. After 1 week of reperfusion, electroretinographical (ERG) measurements, histological analysis, and Western blot were performed. Harmaline alone exhibited retinoprotection in ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) which was, surprisingly, counterbalanced by DMT in case of co-administration. As both MAO-A inhibition and DMT increase serotoninergic tone synergistically, communicated to be anti-ischemic, thus, involvement of other pathways was investigated. Based on our experiments, DMT and harmaline exert opposite effects on important ocular proteins such as PARP1, NFκB, MMP9, or HSP70, each having a critical role in a different mechanism of eye-ischemia-related pathologies, e.g., cell death, inflammation, tissue destruction, and oxidative stress. Since DMT is proclaimed to be a promising drug candidate, its potentially undesirable effect on eye-ischemia should be further investigated. Meanwhile, this experiment revealed the potential therapeutic effect of MAO-A inhibitor harmaline in I/R-related eye diseases.

Investigation of Protein and Epitope Characteristics of Oats and Its Implications for Celiac Disease

The use of pure oats (oats cultivated with special care to avoid gluten contamination from wheat, rye, and barley) in the gluten-free diet (GFD) represents important nutritional benefits for the celiac consumer. However, emerging evidence suggests that some oat cultivars may contain wheat gliadin analog polypeptides. Consequently, it is necessary to screen oats in terms of protein and epitope composition to be able to select safe varieties for gluten-free applications. The overall aim of our study is to investigate the variability of oat protein composition directly related to health-related and techno-functional properties. Elements of an oat sample population representing 162 cultivated varieties from 20 countries and the protein composition of resulting samples have been characterized. Size distribution of the total protein extracts has been analyzed by size exclusion-high performance liquid chromatography (SE-HPLC) while the 70% ethanol-extracted proteins were analyzed by RP-HPLC. Protein extracts separated into three main groups of fractions on the SE-HPLC column: polymeric proteins, avenins (both containing three subgroups based on their size), and soluble proteins, representing respectively 68.79–86.60, 8.86–27.72, and 2.89–11.85% of the total protein content. The ratio of polymeric to monomeric proteins varied between 1.37 and 3.73. Seventy-six reversed phase-HPLC-separated peaks have been differentiated from the ethanol extractable proteins of the entire population. Their distribution among the cultivars varied significantly, 6–23 peaks per cultivar. The number of appearances of peaks also showed large variation: one peak has been found in 107 samples, while 15 peaks have been identified, which appeared in less than five cultivars. An estimation method for ranking the avenin-epitope content of the samples has been developed by using MS spectrometric data of collected RP-HPLC peaks and bioinformatics methods. Using ELISA methodology with the R5 antibody, a high number of the investigated samples were found to be contaminated with wheat, barley, or rye.

Improved Survival and Retinal Function of Aging ZDF Rats in Long-Term, Uncontrolled Diabetes by BGP-15 Treatment

Retinal complications of diabetes often lead to deterioration or even loss of vision. This hastens discovery of pharmacological agents able to counterbalance diabetic retinopathy. BGP-15, an emerging small molecule agent, was formerly proven by our workgroup to be retinoprotective on nonobese diabetic animals, Goto-Kakizaki rats. In the present study, we aimed to examine its long-term tolerability or incidental side effects on obese-prone Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats to further increase the rationale for a future human translation. To make terminal visual status comparable with our other investigations, we also carried out electroretinography (ERG) at the end of the experiment. Our study was started on 16-week-old ZDF rats and lasted for 52 weeks, while BGP was administered daily by gavage. During the 12 months of treatment, 100% of BGP-treated animals survived compared to the non-treated ZDF group, where 60% of the animals died, which was a statistically significant difference. Based on ERG results, BGP-15 was able to counterbalance visual deterioration of ZDF rats caused by long-term diabetes. Some moderate but significant changes were seen in OGTT results and some relationship to oxidative stress by the western blot method: BGP-15 was able to increase expression of HSP70 and decrease that of NFkB in eyes of rats. These were in concert with our previous observations of SIRT1 increment and MMP9 decrement in diabetic eyes by BGP. In summary, not only is BGP-15 not harmful in the long run but it is even able to reduce the related mortality and the serious consequences of diabetes. BGP-15 is an excellent candidate for future drug development against diabetic retinopathy.

AB0107 INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF KYNURENIC ACID ANALOGS IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background:

The investigation of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive functions of kynurenic acid (KYNA) is now in focus. Previously, we demonstrated the opposite effects of KYNA and different KYNA analogs on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production and tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6) expression in U-937 monocytic cells. The potential effect of KYNA analogs on further immune mediators including alarmins (S100A12=EN-RAGE and S100A8/9=calprotectin), and on human neutrofil peptide 1-3(α-defensin) production has not been investigated.

Objectives:

Therefore, in the present study, we compared the effects of newly synthesized KYNA analog on the TNF-α, alarmins and α-defensin production, correlation with the effects on the TSG-6 expression in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods:

93 RA patients were involved and divided subgroups based on DAS28 activity score. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was isolated from RA patients and healthy controls. As cytokine inducers heat inactivatedStaphylococcus aureus(SA1) were used. In parallel in vitro experiments, the SA1 induced PBMCs were pretreated with a newly synthesized KYNA analog (compound SZR-72 was synthesized by direct amidation of KYNA). The concentrations of the above mentioned inflammatory mediators in the supernatants were quantified by using ELISA kits and the TSG-6 expression was also determined by RTqPCR method.

Results:

The SA1 induced TNF-α, EN-RAGE, calprotectin and α-defensin production was significantly higher in RA patients’ group than in healthy controls. KYNA analog attenuated the SA1 induced TNF-α, EN-RAGE, calprotectin and α-defensin production, and increased TSG-6 production and TSG-6 mRNA expression in PBMC cells from RA patients. The SA1 induced TNF-α and TSG-6 production correlated with the DAS28 activity score. The TNF-α inhibitory effect of the KYNA analog correlated inversely with the TSG-6 stimulatory effect in all subgroups of RA patients based on DAS28 activity score.

Conclusion:

TSG-6 expression could participate in the suppression of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, EN-RAGE, calprotectin and α-defensin. We suppose that the elevation of the TSG-6 expression by KYNA and especially by new KYNA analogs might be one of the mechanisms that are responsible for their suppressive effect on TNF-α production as a feedback mechanism in RA. KYNA and KYNA analogs have an important role in influencing TSG-6 expression, and there is a possible benefit with potential therapeutic consequence of targeting TSG-6 expression by kynurenines in inflammatory conditions in RA.

References:

[1]Mándi Y, Endrész V, Mosolygó T, Burián K, Lantos I, Fülöp F, Szatmári I, Lőrinczi B, Balog A, Vécsei L, The Opposite Effects of Kynurenic Acid and Different Kynurenic Acid Analogs on Tumor Necrosis Factor-a (TNF-a) Production and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Stimulated Gene-6 (TSG-6) Expression. Frontiers in Immunology. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01406

Acknowledgments:

This work was supported by GINOP 2.3.2-2015-16-00034

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

SIRT1 Activation by Equisetum Arvense L. (Horsetail) Modulates Insulin Sensitivity in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats

BACKGROUND: Equisetum arvense L., commonly known as field horsetail is a perennial fern of which extracts are rich sources of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Activation of SIRT1 that was shown to be involved in well-known signal pathways of diabetic cardiomyopathy has a protective effect against oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, and apoptosis that are the basis of diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, or cardiovascular diseases. The aim of our study was to evaluate the antidiabetic and cardioprotective effects of horsetail extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. METHODS: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin. In the control groups (healthy and diabetic), rats were administered with vehicle, whilst in the treated groups, animals were administered with 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg horsetail extract, respectively, for six weeks. Blood glucose levels, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity were determined, and SIRT1 levels were measured from the cardiac muscle. RESULTS: The horsetail extract showed moderate beneficial changes in blood glucose levels and exhibited a tendency to elevate SIRT1 levels in cardiomyocytes, furthermore a 100 mg/kg dose also improved insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: Altogether our results suggest that horsetail extract might have potential in ameliorating manifested cardiomyopathy acting on SIRT1.

Retinoprotection by BGP-15, a Hydroximic Acid Derivative, in a Type II Diabetic Rat Model Compared to Glibenclamide, Metformin, and Pioglitazone

High blood glucose and the consequential ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury damage vessels of the retina, deteriorating its function, which can be clearly visualized by electroretinography (ERG). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible retinoprotective effects of systemic BGP-15, an emerging drug candidate, in an insulin resistant animal model, the Goto-Kakizaki rat, and compare these results with well-known anti-diabetics such as glibenclamide, metformin, and pioglitazone, which even led to some novel conclusions about these well-known agents. Experiments were carried out on diseased animal model (Goto-Kakizaki rats). The used methods include weight measurement, glucose-related measurements—like fasting blood sugar analysis, oral glucose tolerance test, hyperinsulinemic euglycemic glucose clamp (HEGC), and calculations of different indices from HEGC results—electroretinography and Western Blot. Beside its apparent insulin sensitization, BGP-15 was also able to counteract the retina-damaging effect of Type II diabetes comparable to the aforementioned anti-diabetics. The mechanism of retinoprotective action may include sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) enzymes, as BGP-15 was able to elevate SIRT1 and decrease MMP9 expression in the eye. Based on our results, this emerging hydroximic acid derivative might be a future target of pharmacological developments as a potential drug against the harmful consequences of diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy.

Efficacy of weight loss intervention can be predicted based on early alterations of fMRI food cue reactivity in the striatum

Increased fMRI food cue reactivity in obesity, i.e. higher responses to high- vs. low-calorie food images, is a promising marker of the dysregulated brain reward system underlying enhanced susceptibility to obesogenic environmental cues. Recently, it has also been shown that weight loss interventions might affect fMRI food cue reactivity and that there is a close association between the alteration of cue reactivity and the outcome of the intervention. Here we tested whether fMRI food cue reactivity could be used as a marker of diet-induced early changes of neural processing in the striatum that are predictive of the outcome of the weight loss intervention. To this end we investigated the relationship between food cue reactivity in the striatum measured one month after the onset of the weight loss program and weight changes obtained at the end of the six-month intervention. We observed a significant correlation between BMI change measured after six months and early alterations of fMRI food cue reactivity in the striatum, including the bilateral putamen, right pallidum, and left caudate. Our findings provide evidence for diet-induced early alterations of fMRI food cue reactivity in the striatum that can predict the outcome of the weight loss intervention.

Protective Effect of Prunus Cerasus (Sour Cherry) Seed Extract on the Recovery of Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Retinal Damage in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rat

Among diabetes patients, ophthalmological complications are very frequent. High blood glucose and (consequential) ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury contribute significantly to the severity of retinopathies. Diabetic retinopathy is among the leading causes of blindness. Our study demonstrates the effect of sour cherry seed extract (SCSE) on blood glucose and function of the retina with electroretinography (ERG) in a diabetic setting with or without ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats. Our results prove that the SCSE has a retinoprotective effect in diabetic rats: according to ERG measurements, SCSE treatment mitigated the retinal function-damaging effect of diabetes, and proved to be protective in the diabetic eye against ischemia-reperfusion injuries of the retina. Outcomes suggest that the protective effects of SCSE may occur through several pathways, including HO-1 dependent mechanisms. The observation that SCSE treatment decreases blood glucose is also novel. These findings offer the possibility for development of novel therapeutic strategies utilizing this emerging functional food, in particular in the prevention of conditions resulting from high blood glucose or I/R injury, such as deterioration of retinal microcirculation.

Pharmacological comparison of traditional and non-traditional cannabinoid receptor 1 blockers in rodent models in vivo

Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) antagonists have been proven to be effective anti-obesity drugs; however, psychiatric side effects have halted their pharmaceutical development worldwide. Despite the emergence of next generation CB1R blockers, a preclinical head to head comparison of the anti-obesity and psychiatric side effect profiles of the key compounds has not been performed. Here, we compared classical CB1R antagonists (rimonabant, taranabant, otenabant, ibipinabant, and surinabant) and non-traditional CB1R blockers (the partial agonist O-1269, the neutral antagonists VCHSR and LH-21 and the peripherally acting inverse agonist JD-5037) using an in vivo screening cascade. First, the potencies of these compounds to reduce CB1R agonist-induced hypothermia and decrease fasting-induced food intake were determined. Then, equipotent doses of the non-toxic compounds were compared in a diet-induced obesity (DIO) test, which includes measurements of metabolic syndrome markers. Psychiatric side effects were assessed by measuring anxiogenicity in an ultrasonic vocalization test. All classical CB1R blockers were centrally acting appetite suppressants and decreased body weight and food intake in an obesity-dependent manner, with only slight effects on metabolic syndrome markers. In addition, all classical CB1R blockers increased ultrasonic vocalization. Surprisingly, none of the non-classical CB1R blockers was eligible for the DIO comparison and side effect profiling. O-1269 and LH-21 induced convulsive behavior, whereas VCHSR and JD-5037 were devoid of any in vivo activity. The classical CB1R blockers displayed similar therapeutic and side effect profiles in vivo, whereas the available non-traditional CB1R blockers were not appropriate tools for testing the therapeutic potential of alternative CB1R inhibitors.

Efficacy of Pre- and Post-Treatment by Topical Formulations Containing Dissolved and Suspended Silybum marianum against UVB-Induced Oxidative Stress in Guinea Pig and on HaCaT Keratinocytes

Plants with high amounts of antioxidants may be a promising therapy for preventing and curing UV-induced oxidative skin damage. The objective of this study was to verify the efficacy of topical formulations containing dissolved and suspended Silybum marianum extract against UVB-induced oxidative stress in guinea pig and HaCaT keratinocytes. Herbal extract was dissolved in Transcutol HP (TC) and sucrose-esters were incorporated as penetration enhancers in creams. Biocompatibility of compositions was tested on HeLa cells and HaCaT keratinocytes as in vitro models. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) tests were performed to prove the safety of formulations in vivo. Drug release of different compositions was assessed by Franz diffusion methods. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) activities were evaluated before and after UVB irradiation in a guinea pig model and HaCaT cells. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) enzyme activity was measured in the epidermis of guinea pigs treated by different creams before and after UVB irradiation. Treatment with compositions containing silymarin powder (SM) dissolved in TC and sucrose stearate SP 50 or SP 70 resulted in increased activities of all reactive oxygen species (ROS) eliminating enzymes in the case of pre- and post-treatment as well. Reduction in the levels of lipid peroxidation end products was also detected after treatment with these two compositions. Post-treatment was more effective as the increase of the activity of antioxidants was higher. Lower HO-1 enzyme levels were measured in the case of pre- and post-treatment groups compared to control groups. Therefore, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of topical formulations containing silymarin in inhibiting UVB irradiation induced oxidative stress of the skin.

Differential regulation of metabolic parameters by energy deficit and hunger

AIMS

Hypocaloric diet decreases both energy expenditure (EE) and respiratory exchange rate (RER), affecting the efficacy of dieting inversely. Energy deficit and hunger may be modulated separately both in human and animal studies by drug treatment or food restriction. Thus it is important to separate the effects of energy deficit and hunger on EE and RER.

METHODS

Three parallel and analogous experiments were performed using three pharmacologically distinct anorectic drugs: rimonabant, sibutramine and tramadol. Metabolic parameters of vehicle- and drug-treated and pair-fed diet-induced obese mice from the three experiments underwent common statistical analysis to identify effects independent of the mechanisms of action. Diet-induced obesity (DIO) test of tramadol was also performed to examine its anti-obesity efficacy.

RESULTS

RER was decreased similarly by drug treatments and paired feeding throughout the experiment irrespective of the cause of reduced food intake. Contrarily, during the passive phase, EE was decreased more by paired feeding than by both vehicle and drug treatment irrespective of the drug used. In the active phase, EE was influenced by the pharmacological mechanisms of action. Tramadol decreased body weight in the DIO test.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that RER is mainly affected by the actual state of energy balance; conversely, EE is rather influenced by hunger. Therefore, pharmacological medications that decrease hunger may enhance the efficacy of a hypocaloric diet by maintaining metabolic rate. Furthermore, our results yield the proposal that effects of anorectic drugs on EE and RER should be determined compared to vehicle and pair-fed groups, respectively, in animal models.

Sample preparation of atmospheric aerosol for the determination of carbonyl compounds

Sample preparation including sonication and solid phase extraction has been developed for the determination of carbonyl compounds in atmospheric aerosol. Aerosol samples were sonicated in acidified acetonitrile containing 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) to form hydrazone derivatives of aldehydes and ketones. Water was added to the extract to increase its polarity. Then the solution was passed through an octadecyl or phenyl solid phase extraction cartridge. The concentrated hydrazone derivatives were eluted with tetrahydrofuran, the eluate was evaporated to dryness then dissolved in acetonitrile/water mixture and finally analysed by RP-HPLC with UV detection at 360 nm. The absolute detection limits of the individual carbonyl compounds range from 0.4 to 5.8 ng.

Interactions of CB1 and mGlu5 receptor antagonists in food intake, anxiety and memory models in rats

CB(1) receptor antagonists proved to be effective anti-obesity drugs, however, their depressive and anxiogenic effects became also evident. Finding solution to overcome these psychiatric side effects is still in focus of research. Based on the available clinical and preclinical results we hypothesized that the combination of CB(1) and mGlu(5) receptor antagonisms may result in a pharmacological intervention, where the anxiolytic mGlu(5) receptor inhibition may counteract the anxiogenic psychiatric side effects of CB(1) antagonism, while CB(1) antagonism may ameliorate the memory impairing effect of mGlu(5) receptor antagonism. Further, the two components will synergistically interact in blocking food-intake and reducing obesity. For testing the interaction of mGlu(5) and CB(1) receptor antagonism MTEP [3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]pridine; SIB-1757, 6-methyl-2-(phenylazo)-3-pyridinol)] (mGlu(5) antagonist) and rimonabant [(5-(4-Chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichloro-phenyl)-4-methyl-N-(piperidin-1-yl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide)hydrochloride] (CB(1) antagonist) were used. All experiments were carried out in rats. Effects of the compounds on anxiety were tested in two foot shock induced ultrasonic vocalization paradigms, appetite suppression was assessed in the food intake test, while memory effects were tested in a context conditioned ultrasonic vocalization setup. MTEP abolished the anxiogenic effect of rimonabant, while there was an additive cooperation in suppressing appetite. However, rimonabant did not ameliorate the memory impairing effect of MTEP. By combination of CB(1) and mGluR5 antagonism, anxiety related side effects might be attenuated, appetite suppression maintained, nevertheless, the possible emergence of unwanted memory impairments can overshadow its therapeutic success.

Effect of CO2 enrichment on canopy photosynthesis, water use efficiency and early development of tomato and pepper hybrids

The effect of CO2 enrichment on the rate of photosynthesis and the water use efficiency (WUE) of young pepper and tomato plants was studied in the phytotron. A CO2 level of 1000 ppm significantly increased the net assimilation rate in the upper foliage, while the increase was even more considerable in the lower layers of the canopy, with values of up to 100%. The 1500 ppm CO2 level caused a further substantial increase in CO2 assimilation and at least doubled (in tomato) or tripled (in pepper) the water use efficiency on a leaf area basis compared to the ambient values. Although the response in terms of photosynthesis and WUE was not variety-specific, there were differences between the pepper hybrids in the biomass components, exceeding 100% for the total biomass at the 1500 ppm CO2 level. In tomato, however, there was no significant variation in the total biomass of the three hybrids investigated in this early phase of development at either CO2 level.

Effect of climate extremes on the grain yield and quality of cereals

A long-term experiment was started in 2005 in the Agricultural Research Institute to monitor the effects of extreme climatic events on the grain yield, quality and disease resistance of cereals. The yield was poor in 2007 due to the long dry period from autumn till spring, while it was high in 2006 and 2008 when there was more precipitation. The grain quality was the highest in 2007, however, despite the extreme weather events. Fungicide treatment generally resulted in higher yield potential and better grain quality in every year.

Study of solvent-protein coupling effects by neutron scattering

The present work aims to characterize the dynamical behavior of proteins immersed in bio-preserving liquids and glasses. For this purpose, the protein dUTPase was chosen, while the selected solvents were glycerol, a triol, and some homologous disaccharides, i.e., trehalose, maltose, and sucrose, which are known to be very effective bio-preserving agents. The results highlight that the disaccharides show a slowing down effect on the water dynamics, which is stronger for trehalose than in the case of the other disaccharides. Furthermore, a characterization of the medium which hosts the protein is performed by using an operative definition of fragility based on the mean square displacement extracted by elastic incoherent neutron scattering, which is directly connected to Angell's kinetic fragility based on the viscosity. Finally, a study of the dynamics of the protein sequestered within the solvents is performed. The result shows that the protein dynamics is coupled with that of the surrounding matrix.

Translocator protein (TSPO 18kDa) is expressed by neural stem and neuronal precursor cells

Translocator protein 18 kDa, the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor by its earlier name, is a mitochondrial membrane protein associated with the mitochondrial permeability pore. While the function of the protein is not properly understood, it is known to play roles in necrotic and apoptotic processes of the neural tissue. In the healthy adult brain, TSPO expression is restricted to glial cells. In developing or damaged neural regions, however, TSPO appears in differentiating/regenerating neurons. Using immunocytochemical, molecular biological and cell biological techniques, we demonstrate that TSPO mRNA and protein, while missing from mature neurons, are present in neural stem cells and also in postmitotic neuronal precursors. Investigating some distinct stages of in vitro differentiation of NE-4C neural stem cells, TSPO 18 kDa was found to be repressed in a relatively late phase of neuron formation, when mature neuron-specific features appear. This timing indicates that mitochondria in fully developed neurons display specific characteristics and provides an additional marker for characterising neuronal differentiation.

Active site of mycobacterial dUTPase: structural characteristics and a built-in sensor

dUTPases are essential to eliminate dUTP for DNA integrity and provide dUMP for thymidylate biosynthesis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis apparently lacks any other thymidylate biosynthesis pathway, therefore dUTPase is a promising antituberculotic drug target. Crystal structure of the mycobacterial enzyme in complex with the isosteric substrate analog, alpha,beta-imido-dUTP and Mg(2+) at 1.5A resolution was determined that visualizes the full-length C-terminus, previously not localized. Interactions of a conserved motif important in catalysis, the Mycobacterium-specific five-residue-loop insert and C-terminal tetrapeptide could now be described in detail. Stacking of C-terminal histidine upon the uracil moiety prompted replacement with tryptophan. The resulting sensitive fluorescent sensor enables fast screening for binding of potential inhibitors to the active site. K(d) for alpha,beta-imido-dUTP binding to mycobacterial dUTPase is determined to be 10-fold less than for human dUTPase, which is to be considered in drug optimization. A robust continuous activity assay for kinetic screening is proposed.

Methylene substitution at the alpha-beta bridging position within the phosphate chain of dUDP profoundly perturbs ligand accommodation into the dUTPase active site

dUTP pyrophosphatase, a preventive DNA repair enzyme, contributes to maintain the appropriate cellular dUTP/dTTP ratio by catalyzing dUTP hydrolysis. dUTPase is essential for viability in bacteria and eukaryotes alike. Identification of species-specific antagonists of bacterial dUTPases is expected to contribute to the development of novel antimicrobial agents. As a first general step, design of dUTPase inhibitors should be based on modifications of the substrate dUTP phosphate chain, as modifications in either base or sugar moieties strongly impair ligand binding. Based on structural differences between bacterial and human dUTPases, derivatization of dUTP-analogous compounds will be required as a second step to invoke species-specific character. Studies performed with dUTP analogues also offer insights into substrate binding characteristics of this important and structurally peculiar enzyme. In this study, alpha,beta-methylene-dUDP was synthesized and its complex with dUTPase was characterized. Enzymatic phosphorylation of this substrate analogue by pyruvate kinase was not possible in contrast to the successful enzymatic phosphorylation of alpha,beta-imino-dUDP. One explanation for this finding is that the different bond angles and the presence of the methylene group may preclude formation of a catalytically competent complex with the kinase. Crystal structure of E. coli dUTPase:alpha,beta-methylene-dUDP and E. coli dUTPase:dUDP:Mn complexes were determined and analyzed in comparison with previous data. Results show that the "trans" alpha-phosphate conformation of alpha,beta-methylene-dUDP differs from the catalytically competent "gauche" alpha-phosphate conformation of the imino analogue and the oxo substrate, manifested in the shifted position of the alpha-phosphorus by more than 3 A. The three-dimensional structures determined in this work show that the binding of the methylene analogue with the alpha-phosphorus in the "gauche" conformation would result in steric clash of the methylene group with the protein atoms. In addition, the metal ion cofactor was not bound in the crystal of the complex with the methylene analogue while it was clearly visible as coordinated to dUDP, arguing that the altered phosphate chain conformation also perturbs metal ion complexation. Isothermal calorimetry titrations indicate that the binding affinity of alpha,beta-methylene-dUDP toward dUTPase is drastically decreased when compared with that of dUDP. In conclusion, the present data suggest that while alpha,beta-methylene-dUDP seems to be practically nonhydrolyzable, it is not a strong binding inhibitor of dUTPase probably due to the altered binding mode of the phosphate chain. Results indicate that in some cases methylene analogues may not faithfully reflect the competent substrate ligand properties, especially if the methylene hydrogens are in steric conflict with the protein.

Kinetic Mechanism of Human dUTPase, an Essential Nucleotide Pyrophosphatase Enzyme

Human dUTPase is essential in controlling relative cellular levels of dTTP/dUTP, both of which can be incorporated into DNA. The nuclear isoform of the enzyme has been proposed as a promising novel target for anticancer chemotherapeutic strategies. The recently determined three-dimensional structure of this protein in complex with an isosteric substrate analogue allowed in-depth structural characterization of the active site. However, fundamental steps of the dUTPase enzymatic cycle have not yet been revealed. This knowledge is indispensable for a functional understanding of the molecular mechanism and can also contribute to the design of potential antagonists. Here we present detailed pre-steady-state and steady-state kinetic investigations using a single tryptophan fluorophore engineered into the active site of human dUTPase. This sensor allowed distinction of the apoenzyme, enzyme-substrate, and enzyme-product complexes. We show that the dUTP hydrolysis cycle consists of at least four distinct enzymatic steps: (i) fast substrate binding, (ii) isomerization of the enzyme-substrate complex into the catalytically competent conformation, (iii) a hydrolysis (chemical) step, and (iv) rapid, nonordered release of the products. Independent quenched-flow experiments indicate that the chemical step is the rate-limiting step of the enzymatic cycle. To follow the reaction in the quenched-flow, we devised a novel method to synthesize gamma-(32)P-labeled dUTP. We also determined by indicator-based rapid kinetic assays that proton release is concomitant with the rate-limiting hydrolysis step. Our results led to a quantitative kinetic model of the human dUTPase catalytic cycle and to direct assessment of relative flexibilities of the C-terminal arm, critical for enzyme activity, in the enzyme-ligand complexes along the reaction pathway.

Active site closure facilitates juxtaposition of reactant atoms for initiation of catalysis by human dUTPase

Human dUTPase, essential for DNA integrity, is an important survival factor for cancer cells. We determined the crystal structure of the enzyme:alpha,beta-imino-dUTP:Mg complex and performed equilibrium binding experiments in solution. Ordering of the C-terminus upon the active site induces close juxtaposition of the incoming nucleophile attacker water oxygen and the alpha-phosphorus of the substrate, decreasing their distance below the van der Waals limit. Complex interactions of the C-terminus with both substrate and product were observed via a specifically designed tryptophan sensor, suitable for further detailed kinetic and ligand binding studies. Results explain the key functional role of the C-terminus.

Correlated species differences in the effects of cannabinoid ligands on anxiety and on GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic transmission

Cannabinoid ligands show therapeutic potential in a variety of disorders including anxiety. However, the anxiety-related effects of cannabinoids remain controversial as agonists show opposite effects in mice and rats. Here we compared the effects of the cannabinoid agonist WIN-55,212 and the CB1 antagonist AM-251 in CD1 mice and Wistar rats. Special attention was paid to antagonist–agonist interactions, which had not yet been studied in rats. In mice, WIN-55,212 decreased whereas AM-251 increased anxiety. The antagonist abolished the effects of the agonist. In contrast, WIN-55,212 increased anxiety in rats. Surprisingly, the antagonist potentiated this effect. Cannabinoids affect both GABAergic and glutamatergic functions, which play opposite roles in anxiety. We hypothesized that discrepant findings resulted from species differences in the relative responsiveness of the two transmitter systems to cannabinoids. We investigated this hypothesis by studying the effects of WIN-55,212 on evoked hippocampal inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs and EPSCs). IPSCs were one order of magnitude more sensitive to WIN-55,212 in mice than in rats. In mice, IPSCs were more sensitive than EPSCs to WIN-55,212. This is the first study showing that the relative cannabinoid sensitivity of GABA and glutamate neurotransmission is species-dependent. Based on behavioural and electrophysiological findings, we hypothesize that WIN-55,212 reduced anxiety in mice by affecting GABA neurotransmission whereas it increased anxiety in rats via glutamatergic mechanisms. In rats, AM-251 potentiated this anxiogenic effect by inhibiting the anxiolytic GABAergic mechanism. We suggest that the anxiety-related effects of cannabinoids depend on the relative cannabinoid responsiveness of GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission.

The effects of cannabinoids on contextual conditioned fear in CB1 knockout and CD1 mice

We studied the effects of cannabinoids on contextual conditioned fear responses. CB1 knockout and wild-type (CD1) mice were exposed to a brief session of electric shocks, and their behavior was studied in the same context 24 h later. In wild-type mice, shock exposure increased freezing and resting, and decreased locomotion and exploration. The genetic disruption of the CB1 receptor abolished the conditioned fear response. The CB1 antagonist AM-251 reduced the peak of the conditioned fear response when applied 30 min before behavioral testing (i.e. 24 h after shocks) in CD1 (wild-type) mice. The cannabinoid agonist WIN-55,212-2 markedly increased the conditioned fear response in CD1 mice, the effect of which was potently antagonized by AM-251. Thus, cannabinoid receptor activation appears to strongly promote the expression of contextual conditioned fear. In earlier experiments, cannabinoids did not interfere with the expression of cue-induced conditioned fear but strongly promoted its extinction. Considering the primordial role of the amygdala in simple associative learning (e.g. in cue-induced fear) and the role of the hippocampus in learning more complex stimulus relationships (e.g. in contextual fear), the present and earlier findings are not necessarily contradictory, but suggest that cannabinoid signaling plays different roles in the two structures. Data are interpreted in terms of the potential involvement of cannabinoids in trauma-induced behavioral changes.

Cannabinoid CB1 receptor dependent effects of the NMDA antagonist phencyclidine in the social withdrawal model of schizophrenia

Clinical and laboratory findings suggest that cannabinoid signalling is implicated in schizophrenia. However, the interaction remains poorly understood, as data are often contradictory. Here we investigated wild-type (WT) and cannabinoid CB1 receptor-knockout (CB1-KO) mice in the phencyclidine-induced social withdrawal model of schizophrenia. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists (including phencyclidine) induce psychotic symptoms in humans, and are used to model schizophrenia in a variety of experimental conditions. In WTs, 5 mg/kg phencyclidine increased locomotion and stereotyped behaviours, and decreased social interactions. These changes are consistent with a schizophrenia-like effect. In CB1-KOs, phencyclidine decreased locomotion, enhanced ataxia and stereotypy more markedly than in WTs, but did not affect social interactions. Locomotion showed a significant negative correlation with both ataxia and stereotypy, suggesting that in CB1-KOs, the locomotor suppressive effect of phencyclidine was secondary to changes in these variables. Our findings demonstrate that CB1 gene disruption dramatically alters the behavioural effects of the NMDA antagonist phencyclidine, suggesting that the CB1 receptor is involved in schizophrenia. As social disruption and stereotypy respectively are believed to model negative and positive symptoms of schizophrenia, our findings tentatively suggest that cannabinoids are differentially involved in these two symptom categories. These findings require verification by experiments involving CB1 receptor blockers, as the genetic and pharmacological blockade of receptors may not always provide similar results.

Radionuclide monitoring strategy for food-chain in Hungary

Annually about 3000 samples including foodstuff, feeding material, environmental samples, among them bioindicators are examined by the Radiological Monitoring Network of the Ministry of Agriculture and Regional Development. Environmental monitoring strategy and major properties of the network are described. The median value of specific activity of (137)Cs in all kinds of foodstuff produced in Hungary is below 0.1B q/kg fresh weight, based on regular countrywide survey. The committed effective dose due to ingestion for adults was estimated to be 0.6 microSv for (90)Sr and 0.3 microSv for (137)Cs in 2004 according to a conservative estimation. It is shown how (137)Cs contamination due to the accidental release from the steel mill in Algeciras, Spain in 1998 could be detected by a county station of the network making use of the database of the whole network.

CB1 cannabinoid receptors mediate anxiolytic effects: convergent genetic and pharmacological evidence with CB1-specific agents

Cannabinoids are known to modulate GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission in cortical areas, the former via CB1 and the latter via a novel receptor. Pharmacological data demonstrate that several widely used cannabinoid ligands bind to both receptors, which may explain the inconsistencies in their behavioural effects. Earlier we showed that the cannabinoid antagonist SR-141716A affected behaviour in both CB1 knockout and wild-type animals, and its effect (anxiolysis) was different from that of CB1 gene disruption (anxiogenesis). In the present experiments, we studied the effects of the CB1 antagonist AM-251, and the cannabinoid agonist WIN-55,212-2 in wild-type as well as in CB1 knockout mice. CB1 knockout mice showed higher scores of anxiety-like behaviour than the wild-type animals in the elevated plus-maze. Selective blockade of CB1 receptors by AM-251 (0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg) increased anxiety-like behaviour dose-dependently in the wild-type mice but had no effect in the knockouts. In wild types, the cannabinoid agonist WIN-55,212-2 (1 and 3 mg/kg) caused a decrease in anxiety-like behaviour, which was abolished by the CB1-selective antagonist AM-251 (3 mg/kg). The same agonist did not change plus-maze behaviour in CB1 knockout animals. These data demonstrate at the behavioural level that AM-251 and, at low concentrations, WIN-55,212-2, are selective ligands of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor in mice. Our studies on the behavioural effects of the cannabinoid antagonist SR-141716A and the CB1 antagonist AM-251 show that the CB1 and the novel cannabinoid receptor mediate anxiolytic and anxiogenic effects, respectively. This suggests that agonists of the former, or antagonists of the latter, are promising new compounds in the pharmacotherapy of anxiety.

Context-dependent effects of CB1 cannabinoid gene disruption on anxiety-like and social behaviour in mice

Contrasting data were reported regarding the effects of cannabinoids on anxiety and social behaviour in both animals and humans. The cognitive effects of cannabinoids and their interactions with the HPA-axis raise the possibility that cannabinoid effects are context but not behaviour specific. To assess this hypothesis, we submitted CB1 receptor knock-out (CB1-KO) and wild-type (WT) mice to tests, which involved similar behaviours, but the behavioural context was different. The elevated plus-maze test was performed under less and more anxiogenic conditions, i.e. under low and high light, respectively. We also compared the social behaviour of the two genotypes in the resident/intruder and social interaction tests. Both tests represent a social challenge and induce similar behaviours, but involve different contexts. The behaviour of CB1-KO and WT mice was similar under low light, but CB1 gene disruption increased anxiety-like behaviour under the high light condition. CB1 gene disruption promoted aggressive behaviour in the home-cage, whereas it inhibited social behaviour in the unfamiliar cage. Thus, the anxiogenic-like effect was restricted to the more stressful unfamiliar environment. These data suggest that the effects of CB1 gene disruption were context and not behaviour specific. Novelty stress resulted in higher ACTH levels in CB1-KOs than in WTs, which suggests that context dependency occurred in conjunction with an altered HPA axis function. The present data at least partly explain contrasting effects of cannabinoids in different contexts as well as in different species and strains that show differential stress responses and coping strategies.

[The influence of depression on the effect of Tropisetron in the therapy of fibromyalgia]

As described elsewhere the oral administration of 5 mg of the 5-HT3-receptor-antagonist Tropisetron in fibromyalgia exhibited less amelioration of pain in patients with a depression in comparison to patients without depression. Since an intravenous treatment seems to increase the effect of Tropisetron, the question arises whether patients with depression profit from the intravenous therapy. Methods 68 out patients with fibromyalgia according to ACR-criteria were enrolled in the study. The patients filled in a VAS pain and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) before and after a bolus i.v. injection of 5 mg Tropisetron for 5 days [Beck AT, Steer Ra. Beck-Depression-Inventory (BDI) In: Hautzinger M (Hrsg der dt. Ausg.). Testhandbuch. 1. Auflage Bern: Verlag Hans Huber, 1994]. In the beginning the patients had to have > or = 40 mm in the VAS pain from 0-100 mm. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1 = patients with a BDI<19 without experience with antidepressive drugs (n=26); group 2=patients with a BDI > or = 19 (n=22) and negative experience with antidepressive substances, and group 3=patients with a BDI > or = 19 and an accompanying antidepressant drug therapy and some benefit under this therapy (n=20). Results Before the therapy there was no significant difference in VAS pain in the groups, but in BDI there was a significant difference between group 1 (BDI mean value 11.5) in comparison to group 2 (BDI mean value 26.1) and group 3 (BDI mean value 24.8). After therapy all three groups had a significant amelioration of pain: group 1: p=0.000023; group 2: p=0.00073; group 3: p=0.0145. There was a significant difference between the group with BDI<19 and the group with antidepressant drug in amelioration of pain (p=0.044). A significant correlation was found in group 2 with Beck > or = 19 between amelioration of pain and BDI after therapy (p=0.008, r=0.666). In this group a pain-reactive depression and in group 3 an endogenous depression must be discussed.

Fibromyalgia treatment with intravenous tropisetron administration

A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter, double-blind trial in fibromyalgia patients demonstrated that peroral daily treatment with 5 mg tropisetron for 10 days produced a significant reduction in pain and other symptoms. The aim of the present study was to determine whether intravenous administration of 2 mg tropisetron daily for a limited period of time would produce quicker and more favorable results. In the first cohort 18 fibromyalgia patients received a single intravenous injection of 2 mg tropisetron. In the second cohort 24 fibromyalgia patients were treated with 2 mg intravenous tropisetron daily for 5 days. Pain intensity was measured with the visual analog scale and the pain score. Pain at tender and control points (dolorimeter) as well as 17 ancillary symptoms before and after treatment were evaluated. Pain intensity was followed-up by means of a patient diary until recurrence. Dolorimetry revealed that a single intravenous injection of 2 mg tropisetron significantly reduced pain and enhanced pain threshold. These effects, however, lasted for only a few days. Of 18 patients in the first cohort, only three showed no response to therapy. Of the 24 patients in the second cohort, 23 showed pain reduction when 2 mg tropisetron was administered daily for 5 days. Pain relief lasted for 2 weeks to 2 months in 20 of these patients. Two patients stopped filling in the pain diary. Twelve ancillary symptoms such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, morning stiffness were also significantly improved by the latter treatment. In the global assessment 16 out of 24 patients showed significant improvement and seven showed slight improvement. Only one patient experienced no improvement. Tolerability was good. In conclusion, intravenous injection of 2 mg of the 5-hydroxytryptamine3 receptor antagonist tropisetron once daily for 5 days produced a longer-lasting therapeutic effect on fibromyalgia symptoms than did peroral daily treatment with 5 mg of this drug. The results achieved are currently being evaluated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

IgE-mediated anaphylaxis to Thiomucase, a mucopolyssacharidase: allergens and cross-reactivity

BACKGROUND

Thiomucase is a mucopolysaccharidase obtained from ovine tissues mainly used to facilitate the diffusion of local anaesthetics and in the treatment of cellulitis. A patient with an anaphylaxis in relation to the intramuscular administration of Thiomucase is reported.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate Thiomucase allergens and their possible relationship with dander allergens and animal albumins.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Skin prick tests (SPT) and serum-specific IgE were performed with Thiomucase and danders. Thiomucase SDS-PAGE immunoblotting was performed in order to study allergens. RAST/CAP inhibition and SDS-PAGE immunoblotting inhibition were carried out to study the cross-reactivity.

RESULTS

Skin prick tests (SPT) were positive to Thiomucase, animal dander (cat, dog, sheep, other), bovine serum albumin (BSA), and echinococcus. Specific IgE was also positive to Thiomucase, animal dander (cat, dog, sheep, other), BSA and echinococcus. In the RAST-CAP inhibition assays BSA was nearly completely inhibited by Thiomucase, Thiomucase was partially inhibited by BSA and cat and Echinococcus granulosus was partially inhibited by sheep and Thiomucase. In the Thiomucase SDS-PAGE immunoblotting several proteins fixed IgE, ranging from 20 kDa to > 94 kDa, the strongest with 43 kDa. The IgE fixation to BSA, cat and sheep in the SDS-PAGE immunoblotting was completely inhibited by the preincubation of the serum with Thiomucase.

CONCLUSIONS

An IgE-mediated anaphylaxis to Thiomucase is documented. Multiple allergens are recognized in Thiomucase by the patient serum, the main with 43 kDa. Partial cross-reactivity with BSA, cat dander and sheep dander is documented.

Oral treatment of fibromyalgia with tropisetron given over 28 days: influence on functional and vegetative symptoms, psychometric parameters and pain

The 5-HT3 receptor antagonists are a novel therapy for patients suffering from fibromyalgia, although the optimal duration of treatment is still unclear. The objective of this phase II study was to evaluate whether prolonging treatment with tropisetron to 4 weeks is tolerable and correlated with an improved clinical benefit. Thirty female patients with fibromyalgia received oral tropisetron (5 mg) daily for 28 days in an open-label fashion. Treatment resulted in significantly decreased pain as measured by visual analog scale (VAS), with a mean reduction of 59.7% and an absolute median change of -25.0 from baseline to day 28 (p<0.0001). A similar, significant reduction of 55.7% and absolute median change of -31.0 was observed in the painscore (p<0.0001). The response rate with patients showing a > or = 35% reduction in individual pain scores was 72.4% at day 28. The pressure tolerance of tender-points was slightly increased at the end of the treatment period. In addition, significant improvements were observed in the State-Trait-Anxiety-Inventory (STAI), scales of von Zerssen (Bf-S) and Beck Depression Index (BDI). Functional symptoms were compared with the results from a 10-day, randomized, double-blind phase III study of tropisetron in 418 fibromyalgia patients. In both studies several functional symptoms such as sleep disturbances and dizziness improved significantly (p<0.05). In the 28 days study, the number and extent of improvement in functional symptoms was increased compared with the shorter trial. Tolerability and safety of tropisetron was good, and typically for 5-HT3-receptor antagonists, gastrointestinal symptoms and headache were the most frequently reported events. In conclusion, 28 days treatment of fibromyalgia patients with 5 mg tropisetron resulted in significant pain reduction, which was most pronounced after 10 days with a further reduction up to day 28. Psychometric tests showed significant improvements in depression and anxiety state scores, while functional symptoms improved with extended tropisetron treatment.

The seasonal changes in the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in precipitation and aerosol near Lake Balaton, Hungary

The concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in atmospheric precipitation and aerosol samples was monitored in a rural site by Lake Balaton, Hungary to examine the seasonal variation. The seasonal mean concentration of individual 3-6-ring PAHs in precipitation varied from 1 to 54 ng l-1 and from 3 to 350 ng l-1 in summer and winter, respectively. In the atmospheric aerosol samples the seasonal mean concentration of PAHs varied from 4 to 880 pg m-3, from 4 to 300 pg m-3, from 11 to 1050 pg m-3 and from 36 to 5000 pg m-3 in spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively. Wet (412 micrograms m-2 year-1) and aerosol (190-300 micrograms m2 year-1) deposition rates were also estimated indicating that the two processes are of comparable importance in the removal of 3-6-ring PAHs from the atmosphere.