Hemophagocytic syndrome in A patient of upper urinary tract urothelial cancer after Bacillus Calmette-Guérin instillation: A case report

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy is an adjuvant treatment for urothelial carcinomas of the upper urinary tract (UTUC). BCG therapy can result in various side effects. We present a case of a 67-year-old female with a history of UTUC who developed disseminated tuberculosis following BCG instillation into the upper urinary tract after conservative management. This complex clinical scenario required a multidisciplinary approach, including antibiotic therapy, immunoglobulin infusion, and tailored tuberculosis treatment. The case underscores the importance of vigilance, early detection, and tailored interventions in managing disseminated tuberculosis arising from BCG therapy and rare complications like hemophagocytic syndrome.

Adenosine A2A receptor and ERK-driven impulsivity potentiates hippocampal neuroblast proliferation

Dampened adenosine A_2A receptor (A_2AR) function has been implicated in addiction through enhancement of goal-directed behaviors. However, the contribution of the A_2AR to the control of impulsive reward seeking remains unknown. Using mice that were exposed to differential reward of low rate (DRL) schedules during Pavlovian-conditioning, second-order schedule discrimination, and the 5-choice serial reaction time task (5-CSRTT), we demonstrate that deficits of A_2AR function promote impulsive responses. Antagonism of the A_2AR lowered ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation in the dorsal hippocampus (dHip) and potentiated impulsivity during Pavlovian-conditioning and the 5-CSRTT. Remarkably, inhibition of ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation by U0126 in the dHip prior to Pavlovian-conditioning exacerbated impulsive reward seeking. Moreover, we found decreased A_2AR expression, and reduced ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation in the dHip of equilibrative nucleoside transporter type 1 (ENT1^-/-) null mice, which displayed exacerbated impulsivity. To determine whether impulsive response behavior is associated with hippocampal neuroblast development, we investigated expression of BrdU⁺ and doublecortin (DCX⁺) following 5-CSRTT testing. These studies revealed that impulsive behavior driven by inhibition of the A_2AR is accompanied by increased neuroblast proliferation in the hippocampus.

Abatement of fluorinated compounds using a 2.45GHz microwave plasma torch with a reverse vortex plasma reactor

Abatement of fluorinated compounds (FCs) used in semiconductor and display industries has received an attention due to the increasingly stricter regulation on their emission. We have developed a 2.45GHz microwave plasma torch with reverse vortex reactor (RVR). In order to design a reverse vortex plasma reactor, we calculated a volume fraction and temperature distribution of discharge gas and waste gas in RVR by ANSYS CFX of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation code. Abatement experiments have been performed with respect to SF6, NF3 by varying plasma power and N2 flow rates, and FCs concentration. Detailed experiments were conducted on the abatement of NF3 and SF6 in terms of destruction and removal efficiency (DRE) using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The DRE of 99.9% for NF3 was achieved without an additive gas at the N2 flow rate of 150 liter per minute (L/min) by applying a microwave power of 6kW with RVR. Also, a DRE of SF6 was 99.99% at the N2 flow rate of 60 L/min using an applied microwave power of 6kW. The performance of reverse vortex reactor increased about 43% of NF3 and 29% of SF6 abatements results definition by decomposition energy per liter more than conventional vortex reactor.

Validation of multisociety combined task force definitions of abnormal disk morphology

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The multisociety task force descriptively defined abnormal lumbar disk morphology. We aimed to use their definitions to provide a higher level of evidence for the validation of MR imaging in the evaluation of this pathology in patients who have undergone diskectomy by retrospectively classifying their preoperative MRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective, institutional review board-approved study included 54 of 86 consecutive patients (47 men; average age, 44 years) enrolled in an ongoing prospective trial of surgically treated lumbar disk herniation who had preoperative MRI and documented intraoperative classification of the abnormal disk as protrusion, extrusion, or sequestration by the treating surgeon. Preoperative MRI was classified by 2 blinded radiologists; discrepancies were resolved by a third reader. Statistical analysis of interobserver agreement and imaging compared with surgical findings was performed.

RESULTS

The readers disagreed on only 1 of the 54 cases. The third reader resolved the disagreement. Eight protrusions and 46 extrusions were found on imaging, with no sequestrations. At surgery, there were 13 protrusions and 40 extrusions, with 2 of the extrusions also containing sequestrations; the remaining case had only sequestration. There were 16 discrepancies between imaging and surgery, resulting in 70% agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, which was intended to validate the multisociety combined task force definitions of abnormal disk morphology by using MR imaging with a surgical criterion standard, found 70% agreement between imaging diagnosis and surgical findings. Although reasonable, this finding highlights differences that often exist between intraoperative and preoperative imaging findings of lumbar disk herniation.

Antioxidative effects of ethyl 2-(3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)ureido)acetate against amyloid β-induced oxidative cell death via NF-κB, GSK-3β and β-catenin signaling pathways in cultured cortical neurons

We have previously shown that 2-(3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)ureido)acetate (KHG21834) attenuates amyloid beta(Aβ)25-35-induced apoptotic death and shows anti-inflammatory activity against Aβ25-35-induced microglial activation. However, antioxidative effects of KHG21834 against Aβ-induced oxidative stress have not yet been reported. In the present study, we investigated the antioxidative function of KHG21834 in primary cultured cortical neurons, to expand the potential therapeutic efficacy of KHG21834. Pretreatment with KHG21834 protected against Aβ-induced neuronal cell death and mitochondrial damage, and significantly restored GSH levels and the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and also suppressed the production of reactive oxygen species and protein oxidation. These results imply that KHG21834 may play a role in cellular defense mechanisms against Aβ-induced oxidative stress in cultured cortical neurons. Furthermore, KHG21834 significantly attenuated the effects of Aβ treatment on levels of NF-κB, β-catenin, and GSK-3β proteins in cortical neurons. Taken together, our results suggest that the antioxidant effects of KHG21834 may result at least in part from its ability to regulate the NF-κB, β-catenin, and GSK-3β signaling pathways. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing that KHG21834 significantly attenuates Aβ25-35-induced oxidative stress in primary cortical neurons, and provides novel insights into KHG21834 as a possible therapeutic agent for the treatment of Aβ-mediated neurotoxicity involving oxidative stress.

The Janus face of cathelicidin in tumorigenesis

Cathelicidin is a host defense peptide with multiple innate immunity-related functions. Recent findings indicate that cathelicidin is frequently dysregulated in human cancers where it plays a paradoxical yet dominant role in the regulation of tumor malignancy. In this review, the regulation of malignant phenotypes by cathelicidin in relation to the activation of its receptors and intracellular signaling is discussed.

Rapid genotyping of Plasmodium vivax Pvs25 and Pv38 genes by using mismatch specific endonuclease

Mismatch specific endonuclease (MSE) method was used to detect natural polymorphisms in Pvs25 and Pv38 genes of Plasmodium vivax. Eighty seven patients with P. vivax were recruited in the Republic of Korea (ROK). Pvs25 and Pv38 genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the PCR amplicons were mixed with reference DNA sequences. Following the denaturation and gradual annealing, the product mixtures were cleaved by the MSE. Heteroduplex types were readily detected by gel electrophoresis, where extra bands with shorter sizes would appear from the cleavage. After MSE cleavage of 657- bp product from Pvs25 mixtures, three genotypes were detected, while Pv38 mixtures with 1220-bp products presented two genotypes in ROK isolates. After the MSE cleavage, the mismatched samples of Pvs25 and Pv38 were completely sequenced, and the results were in complete agreement with the MSE analyses. In conclusion, genotyping of Pvs25 and Pv38 with MSE cleavage could be a potential method for the high-throughput screening of the large field samples.

Cigarette smoking and gastrointestinal diseases: the causal relationship and underlying molecular mechanisms (review)

Cigarette smoking is an important risk factor for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and cancer. In this review, the relationship between smoking and GI disorders and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. It has been demonstrated that cigarette smoking is positively associated with the pathogenesis of peptic ulcers and the delay of ulcer healing. Mechanistic studies have shown that cigarette smoke and its active ingredients can cause mucosal cell death, inhibit cell renewal, decrease blood flow in the GI mucosa and interfere with the mucosal immune system. Cigarette smoking is also an independent risk factor for various types of cancer of the GI tract. In this review, we also summarize the mechanisms through which cigarette smoking induces tumorigenesis and promotes the development of cancer in various sections of the GI tract. These mechanisms include the activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, the formation of DNA adducts, the stimulation of tumor angiogenesis and the modulation of immune responses in the GI mucosa. A full understanding of these pathogenic mechanisms may help us to develop more effective therapies for GI disorders in the future.

Animal models of gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer

Inflammation and cancer are the two major disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. They are causally related in their pathogenesis. It is important to study animal models' causal relationship and, in particular, to discover new therapeutic agents for such diseases. There are several criteria for these models in order to make them useful in better understanding the etiology and treatment of the said diseases in humans. In this regard, animal models should be similar as possible to human diseases and also be easy to produce and reproducible and also economic to allow a continuous replication in different laboratories. In this review, we summarize the various animal models for inflammatory and cancerous disorders in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Experimental approaches are as simple as by giving a single oral dose of alcohol or other noxious agents or by injections of multiple dosages of ulcer inducing agents or by parenteral administration or in drinking water of carcinogens or by modifying the genetic makeups of animals to produce relatively long-term pathological changes in particular organs. With these methods they could induce consistent inflammatory responses or tumorigenesis in the gastrointestinal mucosa. These animal models are widely used in laboratories in understanding the pathogenesis as well as the mechanisms of action for therapeutic agents in the treatment of gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer.

Dihydrotanshinone induces p53-independent but ROS-dependent apoptosis in colon cancer cells

AIMS

The therapeutic potential of various tanshinones was examined and compared for their anti-cancer activities on colon cancer cells. The role of ROS generation in the pro-apoptotic activity of dihydrotanshinone (DHTS) was further studied.

MAIN METHODS

Cell viability was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Apoptosis and poly-ADP-ribose-polymerase (PARP) cleavage were respectively measured by flow cytometer and Western blot. Changes of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), mitochondrial ROS (mitoROS) and total ROS were determined by confocal system under an inverted microscope.

KEY FINDINGS

Among the different tanshinones examined, DHTS produced the most potent anti-cancer effect. DHTS induced a selective cytotoxicity and apoptosis in both HCT116 p53(-/-) and HCT116 p53(+/+) colon cancer cells. A time- and concentration-dependent PARP cleavage further confirmed the apoptotic activity. In this regard, it was found DHTS provoked mitochondrial dysfunction in the early stage by decreasing MMP and mitoROS levels. This was followed by a time-dependent increase in intracellular ROS generation. Pretreatment with N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) or catalase-PEG, the free radical scavengers, reduced apoptotic cell death. From these findings, it seems that leakage of ROS from mitochondria into cytosol by DHTS represents the major contributory factor leading to cell death in colon cancer cells.

SIGNIFICANCE

We report for the first time that DHTS induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells through a p53-independent pathway. Disturbance of ROS generation at the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complex in mitochondria followed by the decrease of MMP and increase of intracellular ROS accumulation are suggested to be involved in the pro-apoptotic activity of DHTS.

A comparison of outcomes between concurrent chemoradiotherapy and radiotherapy alone in cancer of the uterine cervix: a single institutional experience

PURPOSE

To compare failure patterns and evaluate prognostic factors related to survival rates after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) or radiotherapy (RT) alone in cervical cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 1996 to December 2006, 218 patients with cervical cancer (FIGO Stage IB2 - III) treated with CCRT or RT alone as primary treatments were included, retrospectively. One-hundred eight patients were treated with CCRT and 110 with RT alone.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in failure patterns between the treatment groups, but distant metastasis was the predominant pattern in both groups. The frequent metastatic sites were supraclavicular lymph node, lung, and brain. Treatment group, diabetes, and FIGO Stage were found to be significant for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), and initial hemoglobin level for DFS.

CONCLUSION

Distant metastasis is the predominant failure pattern and diabetes is one of the independent prognostic factors to survival rates in this study.

Cathelicidin protects against Helicobacter pylori colonization and the associated gastritis in mice

Cathelicidin, an antimicrobial peptide of the innate immune system, has been shown to modulate microbial growth, wound healing and inflammation. However, whether cathelicidin controls Helicobacter pylori infection in vivo remains unexplored. This study sought to elucidate the role of endogenous and exogenous mouse cathelicidin (CRAMP) in the protection against H. pylori infection and the associated gastritis in mice. Results showed that genetic ablation of CRAMP in mice significantly increased the susceptibility of H. pylori colonization and the associated gastritis as compared with the wild-type control. Furthermore, replenishment with exogenous CRAMP, delivered via a bioengineered CRAMP-secreting strain of Lactococcus lactis, reduced H. pylori density in the stomach as well as the associated inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine production. Collectively, these findings indicate that cathelicidin protects against H. pylori infection and its associated gastritis in vivo. Our study also demonstrates the feasibility of using the transformed food-grade bacteria to deliver cathelicidin, which may have potential clinical applications in the treatment of H. pylori infection in humans.

Effects of Radix Astragali and Radix Rehmanniae, the components of an anti-diabetic foot ulcer herbal formula, on metabolism of model CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4 probe substrates in pooled human liver microsomes and specific CYP isoforms

The present study investigated the effects of Radix Astragali (RA) and Radix Rehmanniae (RR), the major components of an anti-diabetic foot ulcer herbal formula (NF3), on the metabolism of model probe substrates of human CYP isoforms, CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4, which are important in the metabolism of a variety of xenobiotics. The effects of RA or RR on human CYP1A2 (phenacetin O-deethylase), CYP2C9 (tolbutamide 4-hydroxylase), CYP2D6 (dextromethorphan O-demethylase), CYP2E1 (chlorzoxazone 6-hydroxylase) and CYP3A4 (testosterone 6β-hydroxylase) activities were investigated using pooled human liver microsomes. NF3 competitively inhibited activities of CYP2C9 (IC(50)=0.98mg/ml) and CYP3A4 (IC(50)=0.76mg/ml), with K(i) of 0.67 and 1.0mg/ml, respectively. With specific human CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 isoforms, NF3 competitively inhibited activities of CYP2C9 (IC(50)=0.86mg/ml) and CYP3A4 (IC(50)=0.88mg/ml), with K(i) of 0.57 and 1.6mg/ml, respectively. Studies on RA or RR individually showed that RR was more important in the metabolic interaction with the model CYP probe substrates. RR dose-dependently inhibited the testosterone 6β-hydroxylation (K(i)=0.33mg/ml) while RA showed only minimal metabolic interaction potential with the model CYP probe substrates studied. This study showed that RR and the NF3 formula are metabolized mainly by CYP2C9 and/or CYP3A4, but weakly by CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP2E1. The relatively high K(i) values of NF3 (for CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 metabolism) and RR (for CYP3A4 metabolism) would suggest a low potential for NF3 to cause herb-drug interaction involving these CYP isoforms.

High voltage ultrawide band pulse generator using Blumlein pulse forming line

A high voltage ultrawide band pulse generation system has been developed to radiate intense and ultrawide band electric fields for the examination of effects of the electric fields on the operation of electronic devices. As major components of the system, a helical strip∕wire type of air-cored pulse transformer and a triaxial type of Blumlein pulse forming line have been designed and fabricated to amplify and shape the output pulse, respectively. For the construction of a compact system, the pulse transformer and the Blumlein line are installed in a single cylindrical container. An ultrawide band TEM horn antenna has been fabricated to radiate the Blumlein output pulses to electronic devices. A number of experimental results demonstrate that the system is capable of providing an output pulse whose voltage is greater than 300 kV, pulse duration is ~5 ns, and rise time is ~500 ps with repetition rate of 10 Hz. The peak-to-peak value of electric field intensity of a radiated pulse is also measured to be approximately 42 kV/m at a distance of 10 m away from the antenna.

Intrarectal administration of mCRAMP-encoding plasmid reverses exacerbated colitis in Cnlp(-/-) mice

Cathelicidin is a pleiotropic host defense peptide secreted by epithelial and immune cells. Whether endogenous cathelicidin is protective against ulcerative colitis, however, is unclear. Here we sought to delineate the role of endogenous murine cathelicidin (mCRAMP) and the therapeutic efficacy of intrarectal administration of mCRAMP-encoding plasmid in ulcerative colitis using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-challenged cathelicidin-knockout (Cnlp(-/-)) mice as a model. Cnlp(-/-) mice had more severe symptoms and mucosal disruption than the wild-type mice in response to DSS challenge. The tissue levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α, myeloperoxidase activity and the number of apoptotic cells were increased in the colon of DSS-challenged Cnlp(-/-) mice. Moreover, mucus secretion and mucin gene expression were impaired in Cnlp(-/-) mice. All these abnormalities were reversed by the intrarectal administration of mCRAMP or mCRAMP-encoding plasmid. Taken together, endogenous cathelicidin may protect against ulcerative colitis through modulation of inflammation and mucus secretion.

Extracts from Radix Astragali and Radix Rehmanniae promote keratinocyte proliferation by regulating expression of growth factor receptors

Chinese herbal medicine has long been used as a treatment for wounds. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study it was shown that the proliferation of keratinocytes, which is known to play an important role in wound healing as the major cell type in the epidermis, was promoted by three herbal extracts/natural compounds: NF3 (an extract from the mixture of Radix Astragali (RA) and Radix Rehmanniae (RR) in the ratio of 2:1), stachyose (an isolated compound from Radix Rehmanniae) and extract P2-2 (a sub-fraction from the extract of Radix Astragali). The effect of the herbal extracts/natural compounds on the growth of keratinocytes was not influenced by a high glucose level, a condition similar to diabetic patients who usually suffer from diabetic foot ulcers. Real time RT-PCR results showed that the expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, but not transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor, was up-regulated by NF3. Moreover, treatments with the EGF receptor kinase inhibitor AG1478 and the MEK inhibitor U0126 resulted in the diminishment of the effect of the three herbal extracts/natural compounds on keratinocyte proliferation, indicating that EGF receptor might have a significant role in this action. This study has further elucidated the molecular mechanism under which herbal extracts/natural compounds exert their effects on the wound healing process.

The autophagic paradox in cancer therapy

Autophagy, hallmarked by the formation of double-membrane bound organelles known as autophagosomes, is a lysosome-dependent pathway for protein degradation. The role of autophagy in carcinogenesis is context dependent. As a tumor-suppressing mechanism in early-stage carcinogenesis, autophagy inhibits inflammation and promotes genomic stability. Moreover, disruption of autophagy-related genes accelerates tumorigenesis in animals. However, autophagy may also act as a pro-survival mechanism to protect cancer cells from various forms of cellular stress. In cancer therapy, adaptive autophagy in cancer cells sustains tumor growth and survival in face of the toxicity of cancer therapy. To this end, inhibition of autophagy may sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents and ionizing radiation. Nevertheless, in certain circumstances, autophagy mediates the therapeutic effects of some anticancer agents. Data from recent studies are beginning to unveil the apparently paradoxical nature of autophagy as a cell-fate decision machinery. Taken together, modulation of autophagy is a novel approach for enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer therapy, but its Janus-faced nature may complicate the clinical development of autophagy modulators as anticancer therapeutics.

Adaptive cytoprotection and the brain-gut axis

Adaptive cytoprotection is a concept to counteract against the gastric mucosal injury caused by stress, strong irritants and drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The process is mediated through diverse mediators and mechanisms. Studies on adaptive cytoprotection began from the discovery of prostaglandin (PG)-dependent and PG-independent pathways, followed by the investigation on the types and concentrations of mild irritants to be used. Upon the confirmation on the importance of the vagus nerve and the vago-vagal pathway in regulating the mucosal protective actions of the mild irritants, individual participating mediators for the neuronal modulatory processes were explored, including peptide neurotransmitters such as calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P. Further correlation with the sympathetic nervous system, the sensory afferent neurons and the enteric nervous system of the gastric mucosa had been made. A close working relationship between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the autonomic nervous system and the enteric nervous system was then proposed, with concurrent regulation of PG, nitric oxide and sensory neuropeptides by different mild irritants. Apart from these conventional concepts, there are now contemporary ideas on newer forms of adaptive cytoprotection such as ischemic preconditioning and heat-shock proteins, which will cast new light to novel approaches in facilitating gastric mucosal protection.

Effect of NF-κB signaling on apoptosis in chronic inflammation-associated carcinogenesis

The causal relationship between inflammation and cancer has been documented for sometime, but its molecular nature remains ill defined. Increasing evidence suggested that inflammatory microenvironment in and around tumors is an indispensable participant in the neoplastic process. High level of free radicals produced during inflammation significantly induces DNA damage while evading apoptosis, a hallmark of cancer, reduces the capability of tissues to eliminate damaged cells. Therefore, the mechanism by which inflammation affects the apoptosis pathway is crucial to understand inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), a transcriptional factor, plays an important role in the regulation of inflammatory responses. NF-κB signaling, which can be activated by diverse stimuli including proinflammatory cytokines, infectious agents and cellular stresses, has been shown to involve in carcinogenesis and resistance to multiple drug therapy. In this review, we focus on the role of NF-κB signaling on the apoptotic effect in inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. These insights may help us to consider the role of NF-κB in inflammation and cancer and further on as a target of drugs for the prevention and treatment of these diseases.

The cytoprotective effect of zinc l-carnosine on ethanol-induced gastric gland damage in rabbits

The effects of zinc l-carnosine on the damaging actions of ethanol were examined in rabbit isolated gastric glands. Ethanol (8%, v/v) incubation produced a 50% viability of the gland populations and released a significant amount (38%) of the total lactate dehydrogenase (an index of membrane injury) of the glands. Zinc l-carnosine pre-incubation for 15 min markedly prevented these actions of ethanol; however, l-carnosine by itself did not have these effects. These findings indicate that zinc ion but not carnosine in the zinc l-carnosine molecule possesses cytoprotective action against ethanol-induced gastric gland damage in rabbits.

Polyethylene glycol: its adverse gastric effects in rats

The effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on gastric function and on lesion formation, evoked by topical applications of absolute ethanol to an ex-vivo stomach chamber preparation have been examined. Parenteral injection (i.p. or s.c.) of PEG with different molecular weights (PEG 300, 400 or 4000), dose-dependently reduced the gastric mucosal blood flow and volume of gastric secretion; these effects were greater in rats given PEG by the i.p. route, which also lowered acid output. Topical application of 1·5 mL absolute ethanol produced severe gastric mucosal injury, which was exacerbated by PEG; this lesion-aggravating effect was higher in the i.p.-injected groups. These findings indicate that when PEG is given by injection, it can adversely affect gastric function and increase the damaging action of alcohol. It is suggested that the use of PEG as a vehicle for injection should be re-assessed.

Nano-electromechanical switch-CMOS hybrid technology and its applications

Si-based CMOS technology is facing a serious challenge in terms of power consumption and variability. The increasing costs associated with physical scaling have motivated a search for alternative approaches. Hybridization of nano-electromechanical (NEM)-switch and Si-based CMOS devices has shown a theoretical feasibility for power management, but a huge technical gap must be bridged before a nanoscale NEM switch can be realized due to insufficient material development and the limited understanding of its reliability characteristics. These authors propose the use of a multilayer graphene as a nanoscale cantilever material for a nanoscale NEM switchwith dimensions comparable to those of the state-of-the-art Si-based CMOS devices. The optimal thickness for the multilayer graphene (about five layers) is suggested based on an analytical model. Multilayer graphene can provide the highest Young's modulus among the known electrode materials and a yielding strength that allows more than 15% bending. Further research on material screening and device integration is needed, however, to realize the promises of the hybridization of NEM-switch and Si-based CMOS devices.

Inhibition of acute experimental colitis by a crude extract and diets containing seeds of Garcinia kola (heckel)

The protective effect of Garcinia kola (GK) crude extract on acetic acid induced colitis in rats was investigated. Colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by inflammation of colon. The pathology in colitis includes disruption of crypt architecture, inflammation of crypts, frank crypt abscesses, and hemorrhage or inflammatory cells in the lamina propria. Since oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiology of Inflammatory Bowel diseases,and Garcinia kola (GK), have been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the rat stomach.The present study was designed to investigate the effects of Garcinia kola on ulcerative colitis (UC) induced by acetic acid. Albino rats were divided into five groups; Group one served as control, group two received Normal saline, group three received 2.5% ethanol while groups four and five were given 20mg/kg and 100mg/kg of crude extract of Garcinia kolarespectively. In another experiment, rats were fed for 2 weeks on normal rat diets but specially composed to contain 12.5%, 25% and 50% by weight of G kola. Colitis was induced by intra-rectal administration of 6% acetic acid. The colonic damage was elucidated by macroscopic damage scores; colon wet weight, stool consistency and colonic edema (thickness of the colon). Intra-luminal administration of 6% acetic acid resulted in observable clinical and macroscopic signs of colitis.Pre-orally administered of crude extract of GK significantly reduced the colonic damage score (p<0.001), colon weight (p<0.001), thickness of the colon (p<0.001) and diarrhea (p<0.001).Histological examinations also indicated a marked reduction in tissue injury and inhibition in neutrophil infiltration in rats pretreated with crude extract of Garcinia kola. Results of this investigation provide experimental evidence of Garcinia kola as an anti-colitis agent.

Anti-inflammatory activities of a kolaviron-inhibition of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production in activated macrophage-like cell line

Kolaviron (KV), a biflavonoid fraction from the seeds of Garcinia kola has been shown to posess antiinflammatory properties in animal models of inflammation. In this study, the effect of KV on carrageenan-induced paw edema was investigated in mice. Furthermore, the effects of KV on the production of the pro-inflammatory mediators- nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) were examined in an activated macrophage-like cell lines, RAW 264.7 cells. Administration of KV prior to injection of carrageenan significantly reduced the paw inflammation in a dose-dependent manner. KV consistently inhibited in-vitro production of NO and secretion of TNF-alpha in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, KV reduced the production of PGE2 in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Viability of cells at all concentrations studied was unaffected as determined MTT [3-(4,5- dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] cytotoxicity assay. These results suggest that KV has inhibitory effects on LPS-induced TNF-alpha, NO and PGE2 production.

Catecholamines inhibit gastric epithelial [RGM-1] cell proliferation via β adrenoceptors

Catecholamines have been implicated in the modulation of normal cell growth, exerting inhibitory or excitatory control depending on the cell type. However, there is a dearth of information on the role of adrenergic mediators in gastric cell proliferation. In the present study, the effects of adrenaline (ADR) and noradrenaline (NOR) on mucosal cell growth and the cell cycle were evaluated in vitro using a normal rat gastric mucosal cell line RGM-1. Cell proliferation was assessed using [3H]-thymidine incorporation and cell cycle patterns were determined by DNA labeling with propidium iodide and flow cytometric quantification. The expressions of adrenoceptors in RGM-1 were determined by Western blot. ADR (0.01 - 10µM) and NOR (0.01 - 10µM) inhibited the growth of RGM-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Pre-treatment of cells with ADR and NOR also inhibited the proliferation stimulated by epidermal growth factor (EGF). Neither phentolamine (non-selective α-adrenergic blocker), methoxamine (α1-selective agonist) nor clonidine (α2-selective agonist) significantly affected the inhibition of cell proliferation produced by ADR and NOR. Propranolol (non-selective β-adrenergic blocker) and butoxamine (selective β2-adrenergic blocker) significantly (but not totally) reversed the inhibitory action of ADR on cell proliferation. Furthermore, procaterol (selective beta-2 agonist) but not dobutamine (selective beta-1 agonist) had effects similar to those produced by ADR and NOR. Exposure of RGM-1 cells to both ADR and NOR caused significant inhibition of the G1 - S cycle progression as evidenced by the higher percentage of the G0/G1 phase and a decreased S- phase. This effect was blocked by pre-treatment with propranolol but not phentolamine These results indicate that catecholamines inhibit the proliferation of RGM-1 cells probably partly through beta-2 receptors.

MicroRNA dysregulation in gastric cancer: a new player enters the game

Gastric carcinogenesis is a multistep process involving genetic and epigenetic alteration of protein-coding proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes. Recent discoveries have shed new light on the involvement of a class of noncoding RNA known as microRNA (miRNA) in gastric cancer. A substantial number of miRNAs show differential expression in gastric cancer tissues. Genes coding for these miRNAs have been characterized as novel proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes based on findings that these miRNAs control malignant phenotypes of gastric cancer cells. In this connection, miRNA dysregulation promotes cell-cycle progression, confers resistance to apoptosis, and enhances invasiveness and metastasis. Moreover, certain polymorphisms in miRNA genes are associated with increased risks for atrophic gastritis and gastric cancer, whereas circulating levels of miRNAs may serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis. Several miRNAs have also been shown to correlate with gastric cancer progression, and thus may be used as prognostic markers. Elucidating the biological aspects of miRNA dysregulation may help us better understand the pathogenesis of gastric cancer and promote the development of miRNA-directed therapeutics against this deadly disease.

Chinese green tea ameliorates lung injury in cigarette smoke-exposed rats

BACKGROUND

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to have potent antioxidant effect, comprises 80% of catechins in Chinese green tea. This study was to investigate whether cigarette smoke (CS) exposure would induce lung morphological changes and oxidative stress in the CS-exposed rat model, and whether Chinese green tea (Lung Chen tea with EGCG as its main active ingredient) consumption would alter oxidative stress in sera and lung leading to protection of CS-induced lung damage.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups, i.e. sham air (SA), 4% CS, 2% Lung Chen tea plus SA or 4% CS. Exposure to SA or 4% CS was performed for 1h/day for 56 days in ventilated smoking chambers. Sera and lung tissues were collected 24h after last CS exposure for histology and all biochemical assays.

RESULTS

Airspace enlargement and goblet cell hyperplasia were observed after 56-day CS exposure alone, which were abolished in the presence of green tea consumption. Serum 8-isoprostane level was significantly elevated (p<0.01) as well as lung superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in CS-exposed rats compared to SA-exposed rats (p<0.05), which returned to the levels of SA-exposed rats after Chinese green tea consumption.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that increased levels of systemic oxidative stress after CS exposure play an important role in the induction of lung damage. Chinese green tea may have the ability to suppress CS-induced oxidative stress that leads to protection of lung injury.

Intra-system optical interconnection module directly integrated on a polymeric optical waveguide

A new intra-system optical interconnection module directly integrated on a polymeric optical waveguide is suggested. A polymeric optical waveguide plays a role in the propagation path of optical signals from the transmitter to the receiver and in a platform integrated with various optical/electrical devices such as a vertical cavity surface emitting laser, photodiode, very large scale integrated circuit chips, and electrical connectors. Because the polymeric optical waveguide is simultaneously used as an integrated platform, the fabrication process of the optical interconnection module is very simple, and the proposed process is compatible with the conventional printed circuit board process. The suggested optical interconnection was also successfully demonstrated with a 5-Gb/s data transmission through the module directly integrated on a polymeric optical waveguide.

Cathelicidin stimulates colonic mucus synthesis by up-regulating MUC1 and MUC2 expression through a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway

Mucus forms the physical barrier along the gastrointestinal tract. It plays an important role to prevent mucosal damage and inflammation. Our animal study showed that antibacterial peptide 'cathelicidin' increased mucus thickness and prevented inflammation in the colon. In the current study, we examined the direct effect and mechanisms by which the peptide increased mucus synthesis in a human colonic cell line (HT-29). Human cathelicidin (LL-37) dose-dependently (10-40 microg/ml) and significantly stimulated mucus synthesis by increasing the D-[6-(3)H] glucosamine incorporation in the cells. Real-time PCR data showed that addition of LL-37 induced more than 50% increase in MUC1 and MUC2 mRNA levels. Treatment with MUC1 and MUC2 siRNAs normalized the stimulatory action of LL-37 on mucus synthesis. LL-37 also activated the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase in the cells. A specific inhibitor of the MAP kinase pathway, U0126, completely blocked the increase of MUC1 and MUC2 expression as well as mucus synthesis by LL-37. Taken together, LL-37 can directly stimulate mucus synthesis through activation of MUC1 and MUC2 expression and MAP kinase pathway in human colonic cells.

Effects of cyclooxygenase-2 non-selective and selective inhibitors on proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction of esophageal squamous carcinoma cells

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of aspirin and nimesulide on cell proliferation, apoptosis and its potential mechanisms in EC9706 and EC109 esophageal squamous carcinoma cells. EC9706 and EC109 cells were incubated with varying concentrations of aspirin and nimesulide, and the effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis were monitored by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and flow cytometry. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays were used to investigate expression of Bcl-2 and Bax. Prostaglandin E2 production was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Pretreatment with aspirin and nimesulide inhibited EC9706 and EC109 cell growth in a time and dose-dependent manner, accompanied with a decrease of prostaglandin E2 production. In EC9706 cells, the mechanism of aspirin and nimesulide induced growth inhibition was a consequence of cell cycle arrest at the G(0)/G(1) check point. In EC109 cells, growth arrest was by induction of apoptosis, associated with downregulation of Bcl-2, but not Bax. In conclusion, aspirin and nimesulide could inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in esophageal squamous carcinoma cells. Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor may be a promising therapeutic agent for human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Effects of aspirin on the development of Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric inflammation and heterotopic proliferative glands in Mongolian gerbils

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori infection is a major cause of gastritis and gastric carcinoma. Aspirin has anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic activity. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of aspirin on H. pylori-induced gastritis and the development of heterotopic proliferative glands.

METHODS

H. pylori strain SS1 was inoculated into the stomachs of Mongolian gerbils. Two weeks after inoculation, the animals were fed with the powder diets containing 0 p.p.m. (n = 10), 150 p.p.m. (n = 10), or 500 p.p.m. (n = 10) aspirin. Mongolian gerbils were killed after 36 weeks of infection. Uninfected Mongolian gerbils (n = 10) were used as controls. Histologic changes, epithelial cell proliferation and apoptosis, and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) levels of gastric tissue were determined.

RESULTS

H. pylori infection induced gastric inflammation. Administration of aspirin did not change H. pylori-induced gastritis, but alleviated H. pylori-induced hyperplasia and the development of heterotopic proliferative glands. Administration of aspirin accelerated H. pylori-associated apoptosis but decreased H. pylori-associated cell proliferation. In addition, the increased gastric PGE(2) levels due to H. pylori infection were suppressed by treatment with aspirin, especially at the dose of 500 p.p.m.

CONCLUSIONS

Aspirin alleviates H. pylori-induced hyperplasia and the development of heterotopic proliferative glands. Moreover, aspirin increases H. pylori-induced apoptosis. We demonstrated the antineoplastic activities of aspirin in H. pylori-related gastric carcinogenesis.

A new role for cathelicidin in ulcerative colitis in mice

Cathelicidin, an antimicrobial peptide of the innate immune system, modulates microbial growth, wound healing, and inflammation. However, its association with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is unknown. Our objective was to determine whether cathelicidin would exert a modulatory effect on the progression of IBD and, if so, investigate the mechanism of action through which this effect occurred. We evaluated the potential for a synthetic cathelicidin, the mouse cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide (mCRAMP), to prevent the initiation and promote the healing of lesions from inflammatory colitis that was experimentally induced in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). During the experiment, mCRAMP was given: (i) as a parallel treatment starting together with 3% DSS feeding, and (ii) as a posttreatment starting 7 days after 3% DSS feeding. The body weight, fecal microflora populations, clinical symptoms, and histologic findings of colonic tissues were measured. Relative gene expression of mucins (MUC1, MUC2, MUC3, and MUC4) in colonic tissues was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intrarectal administration of mCRAMP ameliorated DSS-induced colitis with negligible effects on mucosal healing. The peptide also significantly reduced the increased number of fecal microflora in colitis animals. It reversed the decline of colonic mucus thickness during colitis through upregulation of the expression of mucin genes. Treatment with mCRAMP also prevented colitis development by suppressing the induction of apoptosis by DSS. The current study demonstrates for the first time that intrarectal administration of cathelicidin may be a novel therapeutic option for IBDs.

Enhancement of gastric mucosal integrity by Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG

The gastric mucosa is frequently exposed to different exogenous and endogenous ulcerative agents. Alcoholism is one of the risk factors for the development of mucosal damage in the stomach. This study aimed to assess if a probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is capable of protecting the gastric mucosa from acute damage induced by intragastric administration of ethanol. Pre-treatment of rats with LGG at 10(9) cfu/ml twice daily for three consecutive days markedly reduced ethanol-induced mucosal lesion area by 45%. LGG pre-treatment also significantly increased the basal mucosal prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) level. In addition, LGG attenuated the suppressive actions of ethanol on mucus-secreting layer and transmucosal resistance and reduced cellular apoptosis in the gastric mucosa. It is suggested that the protective action of LGG on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions is likely attributed to the up-regulation of PGE(2), which could stimulate the mucus secretion and increase the transmucosal resistance in the gastric mucosa. All these would protect mucosal cells from apoptosis in the stomach.

Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG enhances gastric ulcer healing in rats

Probiotics are widely used as functional foods which have been advocated for the maintenance of gastrointestinal microflora equilibrium and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. However, studying the role of probiotics in peptic ulcer disease is limited. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of a probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG on gastric ulcer and to elucidate the mechanisms involved. Gastric kissing ulcers were induced in rats by acetic acid (60% v/v). L. rhamnosus GG was given intragastrically at 10(8) cfu/day or 10(9) cfu/day for three consecutive days after ulcer induction. L. rhamnosus GG successfully colonized in the gastric mucosa especially at the ulcer margin. It also significantly and dose-dependently reduced gastric ulcer area. Cell apoptosis to cell proliferation ratio was strongly decreased and accompanied by significant up-regulation of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) protein expression at the ulcer margin. Angiogenesis was also significantly stimulated together with the induction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Furthermore, L. rhamnosus GG up-regulated the phosphorylation level of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF receptor) without altering the total EGF receptor expression. These findings suggested that L. rhamnosus GG enhanced gastric ulcer healing via the attenuation of cell apoptosis to cell proliferation ratio and increase in angiogenesis. Regulators of these processes such as ODC, Bcl-2, VEGF and EGF receptor are likely to be involved in the healing action of L. rhamnosus GG for gastric ulcer.

Comparison of MR-thermography and planning calculations in phantoms

A systematic comparison of three-dimensional MR (magnetic resonance) thermography and planning calculations in phantoms for the hyperthermia (HT) SIGMA-Eye applicator. We performed 2 x 6 experiments in a homogeneous cylindrical and a heterogeneous elliptical phantom by adjusting 82 different patterns with different phase control inside an MR tomograph (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, 1.5 Tesla). For MR thermography, we employed the proton resonance frequency shift method with a drift correction based on silicon tubes. For the planning calculations, we used the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method and, in addition, modeled the antennas and the transforming network. We generated regions according to a segmentation of bones and tissue, and used an interpolation technique with a subgrid of 0.5 cm size at the interfaces. A Gauss-Newton solver has been developed to adapt phases and amplitudes. A qualitative agreement between the planning program and measurements was obtained, including a correct prediction of hot spot locations. The final deviation between planning and measurement is in the range of 2-3 W/kg, i.e., below 10%. Additional HT phase and amplitude adaptation, as well as position correction of the phantom in the SIGMA-Eye, further improve the results. HT phase corrections in the range of 30-40 degrees and HT amplitude corrections of +/- 20-30% are required for the best agreement. The deviation /MR-FDTD/, and the HT phase/amplitude corrections depend on the type of phantom, certain channel groups, pattern steering, and the positioning error. Appropriate agreement between three-dimensional specific absorption rate distributions measured by MR-thermography and planning calculations is achieved, if the correct position and adapted feed point parameters are considered. As long as feed-point parameters are uncertain (i.e., cannot be directly measured during therapy), a prospective planning will remain difficult. However, we can use the information of MR thermography to better predict the patterns in the future even without the knowledge of feed-point parameters.

Stability of E-cadherin methylation status in gastric mucosa associated with histology changes

BACKGROUND

We have previously shown reversal of E-cadherin methylation in gastric mucosa from patients with dyspepsia at week 6 after Helicobacter pylori-eradication therapy. But the long-term methylation status of these patients was unknown.

AIM

To investigate the methylation status at E-cadherin at year 3 after H. pylori-eradication therapy.

METHODS

35 patients (25 with and 10 without H. pylori eradicated) enrolled in our previous study were recruited into the present study (year 3 analysis). Methylation at E-cadherin was evaluated by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction method.

RESULTS

There was no difference in age and sex distribution in the two groups. Methylation at E-cadherin in patients with H. pylori eradicated at weeks 0, 6 and year 3 were 52%, 20% and 20%, respectively. Concordant methylation status at week 6 and year 3 was 92%. Methylation at E-cadherin in patients without H. pylori at weeks 0, 6 and year 3 were 50%, 60% and 60%, respectively. Concordant methylation status between week 6 and year 3 was 90%. Stability of E-cadherin methylation status was associated with histological changes. No association between E-cadherin methylation status and age was observed.

CONCLUSION

The methylation pattern is stable for a long period, thus suggesting the effect of environment on methylation.

Regions of alpha-amino-5-methyl-3-hydroxy-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor subunits that are permissive for the insertion of green fluorescent protein

The green fluorescent protein can be fused to the ends of a mature glutamate receptor subunit to produce functional, fluorescent receptors. However, there are good reasons to search for internal regions of receptor subunits that can tolerate green fluorescent protein insertion. First, internal insertions of green fluorescent protein may produce functional, fluorescent subunits that traffic more correctly. Second, fluorescent proteins inserted near interacting surfaces of subunits could potentially create reagents suitable for fluorescence resonance energy transfer measurements. Finally, internal green fluorescent protein insertions could potentially produce subunits capable of signaling conformational changes through intrinsic changes in fluorescence intensity. To identify regions of receptor subunits that are permissive for green fluorescent protein insertion, we used a series of recombinant transposons to create fluorescent protein insertions in three alpha-amino-5-methyl-3-hydroxy-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor subunits. A combined analysis of the relative fluorescence intensity and glutamate-gated ion channel function of 69 different green fluorescent protein fusion proteins identified permissive zones for the creation of bright and fully functional receptor subunits in the C-terminal portion of the amino terminal domain, the intracellular tail of the carboxy terminal domain, and within the pore-forming regions of the channel.

Elasto-plastic contact analysis of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene tibial component based on geometrical measurement from a retrieved knee prosthesis

The wear phenomenon of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in knee and hip prostheses is one of the major restriction factors on the longevity of these implants. Especially in retrieved knee prostheses with anatomical design, the predominant types of wear on UHMWPE tibial components are delamination and pitting. These fatigue wear patterns of UHMWPE are believed to result from repeated plastic deformation owing to high contact stresses. In this study, the elasto-plastic contact analysis of the UHWMPE tibial insert, based on geometrical measurement for retrieved knee prosthesis, was performed using the finite element method (FEM) to investigate the plastic deformation behaviour in the UHMWPE tibial component. The results suggest that the maximum plastic strain below the surface is closely related to subsurface crack initiation and delamination of the retrieved UHMWPE tibial component. The worn surface whose macroscopic geometrical congruity had been improved due to wear after joint replacement showed lower contact stress at macroscopic level.

Kombination von dynamischem MR-Sellink und MR-Kolonographie zur Diagnostik des Morbus Crohn

PURPOSE

To investigate whether a combined examination with MRI enteroclysis and MRI colonography is practicable and would provide additional findings in the regions seen with ileo-colonoscopy in the work-up of patients with Crohn's disease.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-five consecutive patients with Crohn's disease (CD) (age range 19 to 42 years, mean age 29.2 years, gender ratio male:female 8:17) were retrospectively studied. All patients underwent conventional ileo-colonoscopy as a standard of reference followed by a combined examination of MRI enteroclysis and MRI colonography at 1.5T within 15 days. Two blinded radiologists evaluated the MRI examinations and compared them with the colonoscopic results.

RESULTS

The MRI examination detected 31 inflamed bowel segments in 25 patients. In comparison to colonoscopy, 5 additional, endoscopically inaccessible lesions were found by MRI and only 2 lesions were missed by MRI. Compared to colonoscopy, MRI found 7 of 10 fistulas detected by colonoscopy, and 3 otherwise indiscernible abscesses. The detection of inflamed bowel segments by means of MRI (endoscopy) revealed a sensitivity of 88.8 % (100 %), specificity of 80 % (100 %) and an overall accuracy of 96 % (100 %).

CONCLUSION

This study provides strong evidence that the combination of MRI enteroclysis and MRI colonography is practicable and supplies additional results regarding the regions which are not seen with ileo-colonoscopy in the work-up of patients with Crohn's disease.

Therapeutic potential of oestrogen receptor ligands in development for osteoporosis

Accelerated bone loss secondary to loss of ovarian function at menopause is well recognised as a major risk factor for osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women. Postmenopausal bone loss can be prevented or arrested by oestrogen replacement therapy (ERT). It has also been reported that ERT protects against cardiovascular disease by improving the serum lipid profile, however there are mixed reports concerning these benefits. Unopposed ERT causes an unacceptable increase in the risk of endometrial cancer and proliferative effects in mammary tissue resulting in an increased risk of breast cancer. While this can be counteracted by combining ERT with a low-dose of a progestin, withdrawal bleeding and the continuing uncertainty about the effect of oestrogen on the risk of breast cancer contribute to poor compliance for long-term use. Because of the known and suspected risks of oestrogen therapy it has been estimated that in the US < 40% of women on ERT will continue treatment beyond one year. An ideal therapy would retain the desirable skeletal and cardiovascular effects of oestrogen, lack oestrogenic activity on the endometrium and reduce the incidence of breast cancer. The concept of selective oestrogen receptor modulation (SERM) has been demonstrated for a number of compounds including tamoxifen, raloxifene, droloxifene, GW-5638 and levormeloxifene. However, the clinical utility of these agents will depend on the profile of tissue-specific effects and the extent to which they are translated into in vivo efficacy. A SERM is defined as a compound that has oestrogen agonism on one or more of the desired target tissues, such as bone or liver, and has antagonism and/or minimal agonism (i.e., clinically insignificant) in reproductive tissue, such as the breast or uterus. Although tamoxifen acts as a SERM, it is also associated with an increased incidence (4% gynaecological symptoms greater than placebo control) of endometrial cancer. Indeed, there have been a number of mechanistic-based studies to explain the increased incidence of endometrial carcinomas in tamoxifen treated patients, which provide an in vitro insight into the adverse clinical observations in vivo. Attempts to improve on the pharmacological profile of tamoxifen have resulted in compounds that differ in their oestrogen agonist/antagonist characteristics, including the pure oestrogen antagonists. This suggests that it may be possible to develop a molecule with a desired profile of tissue-specific agonist/antagonist activities by establishing bone and cardiovascular protective effects but having no effects (or even behaving as an antagonist) in the reproductive tissues.

Role of opioid receptors in cardioprotection of cold-restraint stress and morphine

Since cold exposure confers cardioprotection, the present study attempted to determine the role of opioid receptors (OR). Stress with cold exposure and restraint for 3 h, shown previously to induce peptic ulcer in a synergistic manner, attenuated infarct size induced by myocardial ischemia and reperfusion in the isolated perfused rat heart from 36.64 +/- 1.8 to 22.85 +/- 2.6%. This is similar to protecting the rat with morphine at 8 mg/kg, which also attenuated the infarct size from 36.26 +/- 1.6 to 20.30 +/- 2.1%. The effects of cold-restraint or morphine were abolished by naloxone, a non-selective OR antagonist; nor-binaltorphimine, a selective kappa-OR antagonist; naltrindole, a selective delta-OR antagonist, or CTOP, a selective mu-OR antagonist. The effects were also attenuated by blockade of protein kinase C or the mitochondrial K(ATP) channel. The finding is first evidence that all three OR subtypes mediate cardioprotection of cold-restraint stress in the rat.

Dual inhibition of 5-LOX and COX-2 suppresses colon cancer formation promoted by cigarette smoke

Previous studies indicate that the arachidonic acid-metabolizing enzymes COX-2 and 5-LOX are overexpressed during the process of colonic adenoma formation promoted by cigarette smoke. The aims of the present study were to investigate whether there exists a relationship between COX-2 and 5-LOX, and whether dual inhibition of COX-2 and 5-LOX has an anticarcinogenic effect in the colonic tumorigenesis promoted by cigarette smoke. Results showed that pretreating colon cancer cells with cigarette smoke extract (CSE) promoted colon cancer growth in the nude mouse xenograft model. Inhibition of COX-2 or 5-LOX reduced the tumor size. In the group treated with COX-2-inhibitor, the PGE2 level decreased while the LTB4 level increased. In contrast, in the 5-LOX-inhibitor treated group, the LTB4 level was reduced and the PGE2 level was unchanged. However, combined treatment with both COX-2 and 5-LOX inhibitors further inhibited the tumor growth promoted by CSE over treatment with either COX-2-inhibitor or 5-LOX-inhibitor alone. This was accompanied by the downregulation of PGE2 and LTB4. In an in vitro study, we found that the action of CSE on colon cancer cells was mediated by 5-LOX DNA demethylation. In summary, these results indicate that inhibition of COX-2 may lead to a shunt of arachidonic acid metabolism towards the leukotriene pathway during colonic tumorigenesis promoted by CSE. Suppression of 5-LOX did not induce such a shunt and produced a better response. Therefore, 5-LOX inhibitor is more effective than COX-2 inhibitor, and blocker of both COX-2 and 5-LOX may present a superior anticancer profile in cigarette smokers.

Synergic in-vitro activity of imipenem and sulbactam against Acinetobacter baumannii

The interaction between sulbactam and imipenem was evaluated with four clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii, including two isolates resistant to imipenem, one of which produced IMP-1 metallo-beta-lactamase. Two isolates (one of which was imipenem-resistant) were sulbactam-resistant by undefined mechanisms. MICs were determined by standard broth microdilution methods. Time-kill assays with imipenem and sulbactam, alone or in combination at 0.5 x MIC and 1 x MIC, showed a synergic effect in all four isolates of A. baumannii after incubation for 0, 4, 8 and > 24 h at 35 degrees C.