Analysis of Key Genes and miRNA-mRNA Networks Associated with Glucocorticoids Treatment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Background

Some patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) benefit from glucocorticoid (GC) treatment, but its mechanism is unclear.

Objective

With the help of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, the key genes and miRNA-mRNA related to the treatment of COPD by GCs were discussed, and the potential mechanism was explained.

Methods

The miRNA microarray dataset (GSE76774) and mRNA microarray dataset (GSE36221) were downloaded, and differential expression analysis were performed. Gene Ontology (GO) function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The protein interaction network of the DEGs in the regulatory network was constructed with the STRING database, and the key genes were screened through Cytoscape. Potential downstream target genes regulated by differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were predicted by the miRWalk3.0 database, and miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were constructed. Finally, some research results were validated.

Results

① Four DEMs and 83 DEGs were screened; ② GO and KEGG enrichment analysis mainly focused on the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway, ECM receptor interaction, etc.; ③ CD2, SLAMF7, etc. may be the key targets of GC in the treatment of COPD; ④ 18 intersection genes were predicted by the mirwalk 3.0 database, and 9 pairs of miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks were identified; ⑤ The expression of miR-320d-2 and TFCP2L1 were upregulated by dexamethasone in the COPD cell model, while the expression of miR-181a-2-3p and SLAMF7 were downregulated.

Conclusion

In COPD, GC may mediate the expression of the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway through miR-181a-2-3p, miR-320d-2, miR-650, and miR-155-5p, targeting its downstream signal factors. The research results provide new ideas for RNA therapy strategies of COPD, and also lay a foundation for further research.

Development of Acridone Derivatives: Targeting c-MYC Transcription in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer with Inhibitory Potential

Breast cancer, especially the aggressive triple-negative subtype, poses a serious health threat to women. Unfortunately, effective targets are lacking, leading to a grim prognosis. Research highlights the crucial role of c-MYC overexpression in this form of cancer. Current inhibitors targeting c-MYC focus on stabilizing its G-quadruplex (G4) structure in the promoter region. They can inhibit the expression of c-MYC, which is highly expressed in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and then regulate the apoptosis of breast cancer cells induced by intracellular ROS. However, the clinical prospects for the application of such inhibitors are not promising. In this research, we designed and synthesized 29 acridone derivatives. These compounds were assessed for their impact on intracellular ROS levels and cell activity, followed by comprehensive QSAR analysis and molecular docking. Compound N8 stood out, significantly increasing ROS levels and demonstrating potent anti-tumor activity in the TNBC cell line, with excellent selectivity shown in the docking results. This study suggests that acridone derivatives could stabilize the c-MYC G4 structure. Among these compounds, the small molecule N8 shows promising effects and deserves further investigation.

Effects of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) Guided Care vs. Usual Care on Overall Survival (OS) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) for Older Adults with Cancer: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials (RCTs)

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

There is evidence from RCTs demonstrating that our current models of CGA guided care can reduce treatment related toxicity effectively. However, it is unclear if CGA guided care can improve OS and HRQL. We aimed to determine the effect of CGA guided care compared with usual care on OS and HRQL.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and CINAHL from date of inception to October 2022 for RCTs comparing CGA guided care with usual care for patients with cancer who were 60 years old and greater on OS and HRQL. We assessed the risk of bias using Cochrane ROB 2 tool. We performed the meta-analysis using random-effects models. The I2 statistic was adopted to assess heterogeneity between studies. We adopted the Synthesis without meta-analysis approach for data not amenable for meta-analysis. The certainty of evidence was rated using the GRADE approach. This study is registered with Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

RESULTS

We found 15 eligible RCTs including 3507 participants. There are variations in types of CGA used with 4 trials using CGA to recommend oncology treatment regimen and 10 trials making no recommendation on oncology treatment. The implementation of CGA recommendations were carried out by a geriatrician in 14 trials, but by the primary oncologist in 1 trial. Six, five and four RCTs were judged to have low, unclear and high risk of bias respectively. Eleven and six RCTs reported OS and HRQL outcomes respectively. There was no significant difference between CGA guided and usual care for OS (Hazard Ratio 1.02, 95% CI (0.90 to 1.15), I2 = 0%; moderate certainty). There was significant variation in the measurement of HRQL in terms of instruments, summary measures and time points. EORTC QLQ C30 and ELD 14 were used in 3 RCTs. The effects of CGA guided care on HRQL were inconsistent. Two trials using FACT-G or Elderly Functional Index (ELFI) reported significant improvement in HRQL at 3 and 6 months post randomization. Meta-analysis of the mean difference in the change of the EORTC QLQ C30 and E14 HRQL scores relative to baseline at 6 months post randomization demonstrated no significant difference between CGA guided and usual care for HRQL across various domains (moderate certainty evidence).

CONCLUSION

The current models of CGA guided care did not improve OS and had variable effects on HRQL when compared to usual care in older patients with cancer. The inconsistent effects of CGA guided care on HRQL suggest that CGA guided care may have more significant effects on the social and functional outcomes domains, aspects of HRQL that is predominantly measured in FACT-G and ELFI score respectively. There is also heterogeneity in how CGAs are performed and implemented. Future research should focus on developing new models of CGA guided care to improve OS and HRQL.

Impact of Exercise and Cognitive Stimulation Therapy on Physical Function, Cognition and Muscle Mass in Pre-Frail Older Adults in the Primary Care Setting: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

Multicomponent exercise program have shown to improve function and cognition in older adults but studies on pre-frail older adults in the primary care setting are limited. This study aimed i) to evaluate impact of 6 months exercise (Ex) versus complementary effect of 3 months of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) to 6 months of Ex (Ex+CST) on physical function, muscle mass and cognition versus control group at 3, 6 and 12 months ii) inflammatory biomarkers such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α).

DESIGN

Cluster randomised control trial.

SETTING AND INTERVENTION

Pre-frail older adults ≥ 65 years attending primary care clinic. Two intervention groups i) Ex 6 months ii) CST 3 months with Ex 6 months.

MEASUREMENTS

At 0, 3, 6 and 12 months, questionnaires (on demographics, physical function, cognition, and depression) were administered and physical function assessment (gait speed, short physical performance battery (SPPB) test, handgrip strength, five times sit-to-stand (5x-STS)) was conducted. Muscle mass and its surrogates such as phase angle and body cell mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis machine. Inflammatory biomarkers were measured at 0 and 3 months.

RESULTS

Data from 190 participants was analysed at 3 months (111 control, 37 Ex and 41 Ex+CST). At 3 months, significant improvement in cognition was seen only in the Ex+CST group whereas improvements in depression, gait speed, SPPB and 5x-STS were seen in both the Ex and Ex+CST groups. At 6 months, the Ex+CST group improved in cognition and depression whereas improvement in frailty and muscle mass indices were seen in both the interventions groups. At 12 months, both the interventions groups had better perceived health, gait speed and less decline in muscle mass compared with control groups. Both the Ex and Ex+CST had significant association with TNF-α at 3 months (β -2.71 (95% CI -4.80 - -0.62); p = 0.012 and β -1.74 (95% CI -3.43 - -0.06); p = 0.043 respectively).

CONCLUSION

Combined Ex+CST had significant improvement in cognition whereas the intervention groups improved in depression, physical function, muscle mass, frailty, perceived health and TNF-α levels. With growing evidence of the benefits of multicomponent interventions at primary care level, incorporating it into mainstream care with action plans on long-term sustainability and scalability should be a priority for every country.

Prevalence of Anemia and Its Association with Frailty, Physical Function and Cognition in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Findings from the HOPE Study

OBJECTIVES

The prevalence of anemia and its impact on frailty and physical function amongst the multiethnic older populations in the Southeast Asian (SEA) countries are often not well studied. Singapore, a nation comprised of multiethnic communities, is one of the most rapidly aging population globally. We aim to evaluate the prevalence of anemia and its impact on frailty, and physical function in Healthy Older People Everyday (HOPE)- an epidemiologic population-based study on community-dwelling older adults in Singapore.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

480 adults ≥ 65 years old.

MEASUREMENTS

Data were collected from interviewers-administered questionnaires on socio-demographics, FRAIL scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, EQ-5D, Barthel Index, and Lawton index. Hemoglobin concentration and physical assessments, including anthropometry, grip strength, timed up-and-go (TUG) were measured.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of anemia was 15.2% (73 out of 480). The Indian ethnic group had the highest prevalence of anemia (32%, OR=3.02; 95%CI= 1.23-7.41) with the lowest hemoglobin concentration compared to the overall population (13.0±1.3g/L and 13.5±1.4g/L, p=0.02). Hemoglobin levels and anemia were significantly associated with frailty (OR=2.28; 95% CI=1.02-5.10), low grip strength (OR=1.79; 95% CI=1.01-3.03), ≥ one IADL impairment (OR=2.35; 95% CI=1.39-3.97). Each 1 g/dL increase in hemoglobin was associated with a 6% decrease in frailty odds after adjusting for potential covariates (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90-0.99). There was a significant difference in the mean TUG between the non-anemic (11.0±3.4 seconds) and anemic (12.3±6.0 seconds, p=0.01) counterparts, but no difference in the number of falls.

CONCLUSION

In our multiethnic Asian population, anemia was adversely associated with frailty, decreased muscle strength, and IADL impairment. Health policies on anemia screening should be employed to avoid or potentially delay or reverse these adverse outcomes associated with anemia. Recognition, evaluation, and treatment of anemia amongst this vulnerable population is warranted.

Frailty and Quality of Life in Older Adults with Metabolic Syndrome - Findings from the Healthy Older People Everyday (HOPE) Study

OBJECTIVES

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and frailty are both associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Frailty is associated with reduced quality of life (QoL) but association of QoL with MetS have produced mixed results suggesting that other factors such as disease burden, obesity and depression may have a more significant influence. We aim to investigate the demographics of frail participants with MetS, and relationship between frailty and QoL in MetS.

METHODS

Cross-sectional population study involving 292 older adults ≥ 65 years with MetS. MetS was defined using the Modified ATP III for Asians which requires the presence of 3 or more of the following 5 components 1) waist circumference ≥ 90cm for males or ≥ 80cm for females, 2) TG ≥ 150mg/dL, 3) HDLc < 40mg/dL in males or < 50mg/dL in females, 4) blood pressure ≥ 130/85mmHg or use of anti-hypertensive medication, and 5) fasting plasma glucose ≥ 100mg/dL or use of pharmacological treatment for diabetes mellitus. Data were collected on demographics, frailty (FRAIL), QoL (Euroqol-5D), perceived health, functional status, cognition, Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG), and hand-grip strength (HGS).

RESULTS

40.4% of the participants were pre-frail (MetSprefrail) and 7.2% were frail (MetSfrail). MetSfrail were significantly older, had lower education level, higher polypharmacy burden and higher prevalence of diabetes. The prevalence of at least 1 activity of daily living impairment was 4 times higher, and depression 9 times higher than their robust counterparts. MetSfrail also had longer TUG, higher prevalence of poor grip strength and poor perceived health. After adjusting for age, gender and education, MetSfrail was significantly associated with much higher odds of EQ-5D moderate to extreme problems with mobility (Odds Ratio (OR) =10.99, CI 2.62-46.14), usual activities (OR=37.82, CI 3.77-379.04) and pain (OR=10.79, CI 3.18-36.62). EQ-5D Index Value and Perceived Health improved by 0.1 (Mean Difference (MD) =0.07, CI 0.04-0.10) and 6.0 (MD=6.01, CI 3.29-8.73) respectively as frailty status improved.

CONCLUSION

Frailty in MetS is associated with depression, polypharmacy, greater functional impairment, poorer QoL and perceived health. Frailty screening and personalized management is crucial in MetS as frailty may be a mediator for negative outcomes in MetS, and frailty may be reversible.

[Adenoid cystic carcinoma of external auditory canal which pain as the first symptom：a case report]

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of external auditory canal is the relatively rare malignant tumor in head and neck surgery.As the signs and symptoms of this tumour do not always correlate with the histopathologic diagnosis and subsequent clinical behavior，it is easily to be ignored. Aggressive surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy seems effective for local disease control.

Constructing a Protective Pillaring Layer by Incorporating Gradient Mn4+ to Stabilize the Surface/Interfacial Structure of LiNi0.815Co0.15Al0.035O2 Cathode

Nickel-rich layered oxides are regarded as very promising materials as cathodes for lithium-ion batteries because of their environmental benignancy, low cost, and high energy density. However, insufficient cycle performance and poor thermotic characteristics induced by structural degradation at high potentials and elevated temperatures pose challenging hurdles for nickel-rich cathodes. Here, a protective pillaring layer, in which partial Ni²⁺ ions occupy Li slabs induced by gradient Mn⁴⁺, is integrated into the primary particle of LiNi_0.815Co_0.15Al_0.035O₂ to stabilize the surface/interfacial structure. With the stable outer surface provided by the enriched Mn⁴⁺ gradient concentration and the pillar effect of the NiO-like phase, Mn-incorporated quaternary cathodes show enhanced structural stability and improved Li⁺ diffusion as well as lithium-storage properties. Compared with the severe capacity fade of a pure layered structure, the cathode with gradient Mn⁴⁺ exhibits more stable cycling behavior with a capacity retention of 80.0% after 500 cycles at 5.0 C.

[Exploration of transoral robotic surgery in the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome]

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is a relatively new technique in the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, which has been shown to be safe and feasible. TORS provides a minimally invasive, visualization method, which brings an unprecedented breakthrough in the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome. In this paper, the application and development prospect of TORS in the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome will be reviewed.

In Situ Grown S Nanosheets on Cu Foam: An Ultrahigh Electroactive Cathode for Room-Temperature Na-S Batteries

Room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries are competitive candidates for large-scale stationary energy storage because of their low price and high theoretical capacity. Herein, pure S nanosheet cathodes can be grown in situ on three-dimensional Cu foam substrate with the condensation between binary polymeric binders, serving as a model system to investigate the formation and electrochemical mechanism of unique S nanosheets on the Cu current collectors. On the basis of the confirmed conversion reactions to Na₂S, The constructed cathode exhibits ultrahigh initial discharge/charge capacity of 3189/1403 mAh g^-1. These results suggest that there is great potential to optimize S cathode by exploiting low-cost Cu substrates instead of conventional Al current collectors.

[Related factors for severe liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C patients with remunerated blood donation history in Jurong of Jiangsu province]

Objective: The incidence of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C is high. Without effective treatment, it would lead to liver cirrhosis. This study is to identify the related factors for the incidence of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C in order to make early intervention treatment and reduce the case fatality rate. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in adults aged ≥50 years with local residence for more than 5 years in Jurong of Jiangsu province from March to May in 2015, the patients infected with hepatitis C virus through remunerated blood donation were screened and included in the analysis. Descriptive statistical analysis was done to compare the differences in the incidence of liver fibrosis among the patients with different age, sex and education level or co-infected with hepatitis B virus or not. The risk factors for severe liver fibrosis were identified with univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Liver fibrosis was diagnosed by using FIB-4 index method. Results: A total of 719 patients with chronic hepatitis C were surveyed. Severe liver fibrosis developed in 285 of the 719 patients, in whom 21.84% was males. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the patients with higher education level (OR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.47-0.90) and with access of antiviral therapy (OR=0.33, 95%CI: 0.22-0.49) had lower risk for severe liver fibrosis, the patients with high fasting blood glucose level (OR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.19-2.77) and abnormal white blood cell count (OR=2.77, 95% CI: 1.95-3.90) had higher risk for severe liver fibrosis. Conclusions: The incidence of severe liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C was affected by many factors. Higher education level and antiviral therapy were the protective factors, but high fasting blood glucose level and abnormal white blood cell count were the risk factors.

[HCV infection status and risk factors in remunerated blood donors in Jiangsu province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the infection status of HCV in remunerated blood donors and risk factors in Jiangsu province.

METHODS

A Cross-sectional study was conducted among people aged >50 years. Questionnaires were used to collect the information about their demographic characteristics and risk behaviors, and venous blood samples were collected from them to detect HCV anti-body, HCV-RNA and other biochemical indicators. EpiData and Stata were used for data entry and statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The overall HCV sero-prevalence rates were 22.55% and 61.05% among remunerated blood donors. Data from multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(adjusted OR=1.38, 95%CI: 1.18-1.62)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)(adjusted OR=1.30, 95%CI: 1.10-1.54)were associated with the outcomes of HCV infection, and fasting plasma glucose(adjusted OR=1.17, 95%CI: 1.01-1.35)were associated with HCV RNA viral loads.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of HCV infection in remunerated blood donors was high, clinical ALT, AST and fasting plasma glucose levels were associated with the risk for HCV infection and HCV RNA viral load.

A Pedigree Analysis of Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Monozygote Twin Brothers

The current study was designed to investigate the features of a family with familial hyperc holesterolemia (FH). Twenty members of 3 generations in a family with hypercholesterolemia were enrolled in the study. The data collected were from clinical observation and subjected to pedigree analysis. The proband was a 41-year-old male who suffered from angina pectoris with multi-vessel stenosis of coronary arteries at the age of 40. Among 20 members, 8 indi viduals had FH in this family with a total incidence of 40% (54.5% [6/11] in male and 22.2% [2/9] in female). The serum total cholesterol level was increased in childhood from 7.1 to 10.8 mmol/L and tended to increase with increasing age. In addition, the level of total cholesterol was increased in monozygote twin brothers and their offspring in the family. This pedigree analysis showed that FH appears to be a hereditary disease of autosomal dominance, and attention should be paid, especially in the only son or daughter society of China.

Aetiology of genital ulcer disease in female partners of male participants in a circumcision trial in Uganda

HIV acquisition is associated with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection and genital ulcer disease (GUD). Three randomized control trials demonstrated that male circumcision significantly decreases HIV, HSV-2, human papillomavirus and self-reported GUD among men. GUD is also decreased among female partners of circumcised men, but it is unknown whether male circumcision status affects GUD pathogens in female partners. For the evaluation of GUD aetiology, two separate multiplex assays were performed to detect Haemophilus ducreyi, Treponema pallidum, HSV-1 and HSV-2. Of all the female GUD swabs evaluated, 67.5% had an aetiology identified, and HSV-2 was the primary pathogen detected (96.3%). However, there was no difference in the proportion of ulcers due to HSV-2 or other pathogens between female partners of circumcised men (11/15, 73.3%) compared with uncircumcised men (15/25, 60.0%, P = 0.39). The seroprevalence of HSV-2 is high in this population and therefore most of the detected HSV-2 infections represent reactivation. Since GUD is associated with HIV acquisition and one-third of GUD in this study did not have an aetiological agent identified, further research is needed to better understand the aetiology of GUD in Africa, and its relationship to circumcision and HIV infection.

2, 5-diketopiperazines (cyclic dipeptides) in beef: identification, synthesis, and sensory evaluation

Stewed beef and grilled dry aged beef were analyzed as part of an in-depth analytical program, with the aim of creating new flavors incorporating only compounds identified in the target foods and identifying new synthesis targets. In-house GC-MS analyses of several types of cooked beef have identified over 1000 volatile and semivolatile components; many for the 1st time. Among the semivolatiles detected were ten 2, 5-diketopiperazines (cyclic dipeptides) previously unreported in beef. These cyclic dipeptides are cis-cyclo(L-Ile-L-Pro), cis-cyclo(L-Leu-L-Pro), cis-cyclo(L-Pro-L-Pro), cis-cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val), cis-cyclo(L-Ala-L-Pro), cyclo(Gly-L-Pro), cyclo(Gly-L-Leu), cis-cyclo(L-Met-L-Pro), cis-cyclo(L-Phe-L-Pro), and cis-cyclo(L-Phe-L-Val). All 10 cyclic dipeptides were synthesized and evaluated organoleptically. Among them cis-cyclo(L-Leu-L-Pro), cis-cyclo(L-Met-L-Pro), and cis-cyclo(L-Phe-L-Pro) were found to be of particular organoleptic interest.

Applications of gray relational analysis in gastroenterology

AIM: To introduce the basic methods of gray relational analysis (GRA) and to illustrate its applications in gastroenterology.

METHODS: With the essential formulae of GRA and several typically practical examples, the procedure of GRA was introduced. Examples were drawn from the gastroenterological studies. Thus the trait of GRA could be demonstrated.

RESULTS: The superiority of GRA in gastroenterological study was proved by the examples.

CONCLUSION: GRA can be applied mechanically or flexibly in gastroenterology.

Rapid Effects of a Single High Dose of Simvastatin on C-Reactive Protein in Patients with Unstable Angina

<i>Background:</i> Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) became widely accepted as a risk factor for a higher incidence of coronary events, and rapid lowering of CRP following the administration of drugs may result in early beneficial effects on the coronary endothelium in patients with coronary heart disease, and reduce angina and coronary events after revascularization. Limited information has been available, however, on the potential effect of a single, high dose of simvastatin on CRP in patients with unstable angina (UA) within 48 h. <i>Hypothesis:</i> The present study was performed to investigate whether a rapid CRP reduction can be achieved by a single, high-dose simvastatin therapy in patients with UA given immediately on admission. <i>Patients and Methods:</i> Forty-two patients with chest pain at rest were randomly assigned to a single placebo dose or 80 mg of simvastatin given at the time of admission in addition to standard therapy. Blood samples were also drawn on admission and 48 h following admission for serum CRP evaluation. <i>Results:</i> The results showed that a single, high dose of 80 mg simvastatin induced significant reductions in median serum CRP levels and in mean CRP levels 48 h following the administration of simvastatin (25.4 and 32.7%, respectively; p < 0.001). <i>Conclusions:</i> Our data suggest that a single, high dose of simvastatin, given during admission, is an effective therapy for controlling inflammatory responses in patients with UA, and its beneficial effect on the vascular endothelium might be reflected by the immediate reduction in CRP levels in this high-risk subgroup, thus improving their prognosis.

Time course of inflammatory response after renal artery stenting in patients with atherosclerotic renal stenosis

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory response has been demonstrated in patients with coronary artery disease after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Such response following renal artery stenting has not yet been established, however, in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis.

METHODS

A total of 44 patients were enrolled in this study. Of them, 22 patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis received renal angioplasty with stent (group A, mean age 51+/-8 years), and 22 patients with age- and gender-matched underwent renal angiography for diagnostic purpose as a control group (group B, age 50+/-8 years). The peripheral blood samples were taken immediately before the procedure, 1, 6 and 24 h after the procedure in both groups. The concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS

The result showed that there was no difference in clinical characteristics and baseline levels of CRP and IL-6 between the groups. The IL-6 increased in the first hour (before: 5.8+/-3 pg/ml; 1 h: 8.6+/-5 pg/ml, p<0.01), lasted at 6 h (12.2+/-8 pg/ml), returned to baseline at 24 h (5.4+/-3 pg/ml) in group A. The CRP did not changed at the first hour after stenting, but mean CRP increased from 0.30+/-0.09 to 0.37+/-0.15 mg/dl at 6 h (p<0.05), and peaked at 24 h (0.43+/-0.18 mg/dl, p<0.001 compared with baseline and control) after stenting in group A, while no such changes were observed in group B (p>0.05 at different time points compared with baseline and group B, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicated that renal artery stenting could trigger inflammatory response by evidence of increased plasma levels of CRP and IL-6. IL-6, however, was an early initiator of inflammatory cytokine, and CRP was a later marker of systemic inflammatory response to renal artery stenting.

Activation of Nuclear Factor-κB and Correlation with Elevated Plasma C-reactive Protein in Patients with Unstable Angina

BACKGROUND

Unstable coronary syndromes are currently believed to be caused by rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque due to local events, which may be of general inflammatory etiology. There is increasing evidence that nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) is a key transcription factor in controlling gene expression concerning inflammatory response, and that plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive marker of inflammation in unstable coronary syndromes. However, whether NF-kappaB activation is associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) activity as well as plasma CRP level has been less well investigated. The aim of this study was to explore whether NF-kappaB activation was associated with CHD activity and plasma CRP elevation in patients with unstable angina (UA).

METHODS

NF-kappaB activity derived from white blood cells circulating in 33 patients with CHD was determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Of these, 16 had UA and were within 24h of the last episode of chest pain. The remaining 17 were being evaluated for stable angina (SA). The CRP was also evaluated in both groups using a high-sensitivity ELISA.

RESULTS

There was marked NF-kappaB activation and elevated levels of CRP in UA group compared with SA group (4.02+/-0.71 AU versus 1.24+/-0.23 AU and 5.0+/-0.7mg/l versus 1.4+/-0.4mg/l, respectively, P<0.01), no NF-kappaB signal was observed in normal subjects (n=10). The NF-kappaB activation had a positive correlation with levels of CRP in patients with UA (n=11, gamma=0.771, P<0.01), but had no relationship between other clinical characteristics and the status of NF-kappaB activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that inflammation is an important feature of unstable coronary artery disease, and both NF-kappaB and CRP are useful markers for the detection of UA or vulnerable plaques.

Rapid effects of simvastatin on lipid profile and C-reactive protein in patients with hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Rapid lowering of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) by administration of drugs may produce early benefit to the coronary endothelium in patients with coronary heart disease and reduce angina and coronary events after revascularization. Limited information has been available in evaluating a potentially effective first 2-week therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients with hypercholesterolemia using a statin.

HYPOTHESIS

The study was undertaken to investigate whether a rapid LDL cholesterol and CRP reduction can be achieved by 2-week simvastatin therapy using a common lipid-lowering protocol in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS

Forty-two patients were randomly assigned to 20 or 40 mg/day of simvastatin. Blood samples were drawn at Day 0 and at Day 14 for measuring lipid profile, CRP levels, and hepatic enzymes in all patients.

RESULTS

The results showed that both doses of simvastatin (20 and 40 mg) induced significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC, 25 and 38%) and LDL cholesterol (31 and 46%) compared with baseline. However, the highest dose of simvastatin (40 mg) resulted in significantly greater reductions in TC and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.04, p = 0.02, respectively) compared with the group receiving 20 mg (p < 0.04, p < 0.02, respectively). A less significant reduction was observed in mean triglycerides (TG) level (16 and 25%) compared with TC and LDL cholesterol. There was no significant difference in mean high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels compared with baseline in either group. In addition, both doses of simvastatin induced significant reductions in mean CRP levels on Day 14 (22.3 and 23.1%) in a non dose-dependent manner (p < 0.001, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that a common daily dose of simvastatin, especially 40 mg, is an effective 2-week therapy for patients with hypercholesterolemia, and benefit to the vascular endothelium can be derived quickly by reduction of CRP levels.

beta-Adrenoceptors potentiate alpha1-adrenoceptor-mediated inotropic response in rat left atria

AIM

To investigate whether stimulation of beta-adrenoceptor (AR) and its subtypes augment alpha1-AR-evoked positive inotropic response and inositol phosphate (InsP) accumulation in isolated rat left atria.

METHODS

Inotropic response was determined by contractile function experiment in isolated electrically driven rat left atria. 3H-InsP accumulations were measured by 3H-inositol incorporation and column chromatography.

RESULTS

(1) Stimulation of alpha1-AR by phenylephrine (PE) or norepinephrine (NE) in the presence of propranolol (Prop) evoked positive inotropic response and 3H-InsP accumulations, while stimulation of beta-AR by isoprenaline (ISO) or NE in the presence of phentolamine (Phen) only evoked positive inotropic response, but not 3H-InsP accumulations. (2) Simultaneous stimulation of alpha1- and beta-AR by NE or ISO plus PE significantly shifted the concentration-dependent inotropic response curves and 3H-InsP accumulation curves to the left and upward compared with individual alpha1-AR stimulation by PE or NE in the presence of Prop. (3) In the presence of ICI118551 (selective beta2-AR antagonist) or CGP12177 (selective beta1-AR antagonist), stimulation of either beta1- or beta2-AR did not change alpha1-AR-evoked inotropic response and 3H-InsP accumulations.

CONCLUSION

Stimulation of beta1-AR and beta2-AR potentiates alpha1-AR-mediated positive inotropic response and InsP accumulation in isolated rat left atria.

Intramuscular injection of naked plasmid DNA encoding human preproinsulin gene in streptozotocin-diabetes mice results in a significant reduction of blood glucose level

The insulin complement with gene therapy has been used as an experimental treatment for insulin dependent diabetes (IDDM). In the present study, we constructed naked plasmid DNA vector encoding recombinant human preproinsulin gene (pCMV-IN), and injected the plasmids (100 microg/mouse) intramuscularly combined with electroporation, to achieve the in vivo transfer of insulin gene in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic C57 mice. The expression of vector-derived insulin mRNA was detected with RT-PCR in transfected local skeletal muscles. The plasma insulin was elevated significantly in pCMV-IN injected diabetic C57 mice, which was complemented to the level similar to the intact normal control. The protein expression lasted for at least 35 days after the plasmid injection. Gene therapy with pCMV-IN plasmids considerably decreased the blood glucose level in STZ-induced diabetic mice from d 7 to d 35 by about 6 mmol/L. The gene therapy also reduced the mortality of severe diabetic mice significantly from 100% to 37% at the 6th week. Our results indicate that the direct intramuscular injection of naked plasmids encoding human preproinsulin gene achieves the effective expression of insulin. The restoration of insulin decreases blood glucose and increases the survival in severe diabetic mice. The gene therapy might be provided as a practical therapeutic approach to IDDM.

A catalogue of molecular, physiological and symbiotic properties of soybean-nodulating rhizobial strains from different soybean cropping areas of China

We have analysed 198 fast-growing soybean-nodulating rhizobial strains from four different regions of China for the following characteristics: generation time; number of plasmids; lipopolysaccharide (LPS), nodulation factors (LCOs) and PCR profiles; acidification of growth medium; capacity to grow at acid, neutral, and alkaline pH; growth on LC medium; growth at 28 and 37 degrees C; melanin production capacity; Congo red absorption and symbiotic characteristics. These unbiased analyses of a total subset of strains isolated from specific soybean-cropping areas (an approach which could be called "strainomics") can be used to answer various biological questions. We illustrate this by a comparison of the molecular characteristics of five strains with interesting symbiotic properties. From this comparison we conclude, for instance, that differences in the efficiency of nitrogen fixation or competitiveness for nodulation of these strains are not apparently related to differences in Nod factor structure.

Functional alpha1-adrenergic receptor subtypes in human right gastroepiploic artery

AIM

To study the functional alpha1-adrenergic receptor (alpha1-AR) subtypes in human right gastroepiploic artery (RGA).

METHODS

The effects of alpha2-AR, alpha1-AR, and alpha1-AR subtype selective antagonists on norepinephrine (NE)-induced vasoconstriction in isolated human RGA were observed by contractile function experiment.

RESULTS

Cumulative concentration-response curves for NE were competitively antagonized in RGA by alpha2-AR selective antagonist yohimbine (pA2 6.82+/-0.28, slope 1.12+/-0.40),alpha1-AR selective antagonist prazosin (pA2 9.77+/-0.22, slope 0.90+/-0.22),alpha1A-AR selective antagonists RS17053 (pA2 8.42+/-0.20, slope 0.93+/-0.20) and 5-MU (pA2 8.42+/-0.22, slope 0.88+/-0.18),alpha1D-AR selective antagonist BMY7378 (pA2 6.84+/-0.32, slope 1.05+/-0.17), and alpha1A-,alpha1B-AR selective antagonist WB4101 (pA2 8.88+/-0.20, slope 1.15+/-0.16). The correlation coefficients between these pA2 values of alpha1-AR selective antagonists with pKi values of which obtained from alpha1A-, alpha1B- and alpha1D-AR cloned cells are 0.95, 0.82, and 0.42. After the vessels were pretreated by chlorethylclonidine (CEC), an alpha1B- and alpha1D-AR irreversible alkylating agent, the pD2 values were changed from 5.9+/-0.5 to 5.6+/-0.6 and the maximal contraction was changed from (8.9+/-3.2) g to (8.0+/-3.2) g, respectively. The difference was not significant.

CONCLUSION

In human RGA, the contraction response is mainly mediated by alpha1-AR, of which alpha1A-AR plays an important role, whereas alpha1B- and alpha1D-AR are not involved in the contraction response.

Severe community-acquired pneumonia due to Acinetobacter baumannii

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To investigate the clinical, epidemiologic, and microbiological characteristics of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) due to Acinetobacter baumannii.

METHODS

Retrospective chart and radiographic reviews of all patients who were admitted to National Taiwan University Hospital from January 1993 to August 1999, fulfilled the criteria for CAP, and had an isolate of A. baumannii from blood or pleural fluid at hospital admission.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients (9 men and 4 women; age range, 37 to 85 years) met the criteria. Conditions associated with the infection included male gender, old age, alcoholism, malignancy, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, renal disease, and liver cirrhosis. Eleven patients (85%) acquired the infection during the warmer months of April to October. Twelve patients (92%) had a fulminant course presenting with septic shock and respiratory failure, and 11 patients (85%) needed ventilator support and were treated in an ICU. Six patients (46%) had leukopenia. Lobar consolidations were found in 12 patients (92%), and pleural effusions were present in 4 patients (31%). All patients had positive blood culture results, two patients (15%) had positive pleural effusion culture findings, and nine patients (69%) positive sputum culture results. All the isolates were susceptible to imipenem, and most were susceptible to aminoglycosides, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, and extended-spectrum penicillins. Eight patients (62%) died. Four of the five survivors were initially treated with combination of a third-generation cephalosporin and an aminoglycoside.

CONCLUSION

A. baumannii should be considered as a possible etiologic agent in community-acquired lobar pneumonia when (1) patients with a fulminant course present during the warmer and more humid months of the year, and (2) patients are younger alcoholics. A good sputum smear, defined as a Gram stain smear of an adequate sputum specimen that comes from the lower respiratory tract and contains > 25 leukocytes per high-power (100x) field on microscopic examination, can help early diagnosis and treatment. A combination of a third-generation cephalosporin and an aminoglycoside may be appropriate empirical therapy.

Antinociceptive effect of astragalosides and its mechanism of action

AIM

To study the effect and mechanism of astragalosides (AST) related to the antinociceptive activity.

METHODS

The standardized formalin test was performed to induce the direct stimulation of nociceptors followed by inflammatory process in the Kunming strain mice. The involvement of opioid and nitric oxide was studied by subcutaneous injection of morphine with/without naloxone 30 min before formalin test, or peritoneal injection of L-arginine with/without L-NAME 20 min before formalin.

RESULTS

AST 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg significantly lowered pain score of the second phase of formalin response as compared with control group (P<0.01). The maximum analgesic effect of AST 40 mg/kg was found at 4 h after the administration of AST (34.4 % inhibition at the second phase). Injection of morphine 5 mg/kg significantly inhibited pain response of both phases (P<0.01) and this was reversed by naloxone 2 mg/kg (P<0.01). However, naloxone did not alter the effect of AST on the second phase. Antinociceptive effect of AST 40 mg/kg was partially blocked by L-arginine 400 or 800 mg/kg (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

AST has an antinociceptive effect on formalin test in mice that is not mediated by the endogenous opioid system but related to its inhibitory effect on the production of NO.

A model to study antioxidant regulation of endotoxemia-modulated neonatal granulopoiesis and granulocyte apoptosis

Neonates with septicemia tend to develop granulocytopenia, which may, in part, be due to septic mediators such as oxygen free radicals and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Granulocytopenia may be caused by a decrease in granulocyte growth and/or an increase in granulocyte destruction. In the present study, we investigated antioxidant regulation of endotoxin-modulated neonatal granulopoiesis and granulocyte apoptosis. Using human umbilical cord blood (HUCB), we found that simulating endotoxemia in vitro elicited significant superoxide production within a few minutes. Endotoxin exposure suppressed colony-forming unit-granulocyte and monocyte formation in a dose-dependent fashion. Addition of antioxidants such as N-acetyl-cysteine could reverse the endotoxin suppression of colony-forming unit-granulocyte and monocyte formation (13 +/- 5 versus 75 +/- 5 colony-forming units/mL). Spontaneous in vitro granulocyte apoptosis in 6 h, as reflected by phosphatidylserine expression on the cell surface, was higher in granulocytes from HUCB than in those from adult blood (10.8 +/- 1.0% versus 5.6 +/- 1.2%). The addition of endotoxin or IL-8 to the cells in the in vitro model did not promote granulocyte apoptosis, but TNF-alpha, a major mediator of the effects of endotoxin, significantly induced granulocyte apoptosis in HUCB (control versus TNF-alpha: 8.9 +/- 1.2% versus 35.9 +/- 2.9%). Addition of the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine effectively blocked TNF-alpha-induced granulocyte apoptosis as demonstrated by DNA fragmentation. Results from these studies indicate that oxygen radicals are directly involved in endotoxin suppression of granulopoiesis, and indirectly promote granulocyte apoptosis, presumably through TNF-alpha-mediated action. Thus, under certain conditions, modulation of oxygen radical production in the blood may benefit neonates with granulocytopenia.

US-guided transthoracic cutting biopsy for peripheral thoracic lesions less than 3 cm in diameter

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and accuracy of ultrasonography (US)-guided transthoracic cutting biopsy for diagnosing peripheral thoracic lesions (<3 cm).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients with peripheral thoracic lesions less than 3 cm in diameter underwent US-guided percutaneous transthoracic cutting biopsy with a modified technique. Fifty lesions (43 parenchymal lung, two pleural, two chest wall, and three anterior mediastinal lesions) were sampled for biopsy. The final diagnosis was based on histopathologic analysis of surgical specimens (n = 18) or clinical follow-up (n = 32).

RESULTS

The histology recovery rate was 98% (49 lesions), and the correct diagnosis was obtained in 48 lesions (96%). Twenty-four (48%) lesions were malignant, and 26 (52%) were benign. The diagnostic accuracy for malignant lesions was 92% (22 of 24 lesions). A specific benign diagnosis was made in 17 (65%) of the 26 benign lesions, and the negative predictive value for malignancy was 93% (26 of 28 lesions). Only two patients (4%) developed postbiopsy pneumothorax, and three (6%) developed postbiopsy hemoptysis. Biopsy helped prevent surgery or thoracoscopy in 32 patients (64%): 18 patients with benign disease and 14 with multiple metastases or inoperable cancer.

CONCLUSION

US-guided transthoracic cutting biopsy appears to be a safe and effective method for diagnosing peripheral thoracic lesions less than 3 cm in diameter. The high diagnostic accuracy for benign lesions and metastatic lung cancer can help prevent surgery in many cases.

Male circumcision and HIV acquisition and transmission: cohort studies in Rakai, Uganda. Rakai Project Team

BACKGROUND

Male circumcision is associated with reduced HIV acquisition.

METHODS

HIV acquisition was determined in a cohort of 5507 HIV-negative Ugandan men, and in 187 HIV-negative men in discordant relationships. Transmission was determined in 223 HIV-positive men with HIV-negative partners. HIV incidence per 100 person years (py) and adjusted rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by Poisson regression. HIV-1 serum viral load was determined for the seropositive partners in HIV-discordant couples.

RESULTS

The prevalence of circumcision was 16.5% for all men; 99.1% in Muslims and 3.7% in non-Muslims. Circumcision was significantly associated with reduced HIV acquisition in the cohort as a whole (RR 0.53, CI 0.33-0.87), but not among non-Muslim men. Prepubertal circumcision significantly reduced HIV acquisition (RR 0.49, CI 0.26-0.82), but postpubertal circumcision did not. In discordant couples with HIV-negative men, no serconversions occurred in 50 circumcised men, whereas HIV acquisition was 16.7 per 100 py in uncircumcised men (P = 0.004). In couples with HIV-positive men, HIV transmission was significantly reduced in circumcised men with HIV viral loads less than 50000 copies/ml (P = 0.02).

INTERPRETATION

Prepubertal circumcision may reduce male HIV acquisition in a general population, but the protective effects are confounded by cultural and behavioral factors in Muslims. In discordant couples, circumcision reduces HIV acquisition and transmission. The assessment of circumcision for HIV prevention is complex and requires randomized trials.

Effects of indomethacin on secretory function of synoviocytes from adjuvant arthritis rats

In this study the effects of indomethacin on secondary inflammatory reaction and secretory function of synoviocytes were analyzed. The results show that secondary inflammatory reaction in adjuvant arthritis rats on days 16, 20 and 22 was suppressed significantly by intragastric administration of indomethacin in a dose of 2 mg/kg-1/d-1 for 10 days. Synoviocytes from adjuvant arthritis rats released a higher level of interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) than that from the normal, control group. The synoviocyte culture supernatants of adjuvant arthritis rats were able to enhance the proliferation of synovial fibroblasts from normal rats in vitro. The synovial fibroblast proliferation mediated by the synoviocyte culture supernatants of adjuvant arthritis rats treated with indomethacin was promoted further because of the inhibition of prostaglandin (PG)E2 synthesis and the enhancement of IL-1 and TNF production in the synoviocytes from these animals. These results suggest that indomethacin is an effective antiinflammatory agent, but it is disadvantageous to the repair of joint destruction.

Effects of indomethacin on joint damage in rat and rabbit

AIM

To study the effects of indometacin (Ind) on joint damages.

METHODS

The volume of noninjected hind paw and interleukin-1 (IL-1) production from peritoneal macrophages and articular synoviocytes induced by lipopolysaccharides were assayed in adjuvant arthritis (AA) rats. Measurements of synovial fibroblast proliferative response and proteoglycan synthesis of cartilage from rabbits were used.

RESULTS

The secondary inflammatory reactions in AA rats on d 18, 21, and 24 were suppressed by i.g. Ind 2 mg.kg-1.d-1 for 9 d. Ind promoted IL-1 production from both macrophages and synoviocytes in AA rats. Ind 10 mumol.L-1 enhanced the proliferation of rabbit synovial fibroblasts and suppressed the proteoglycan synthesis of articular cartilage in response to IL-1 in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Ind is unfavorable to the repair of joint destruction.

No subacute thrombosis and femoral bleeding complications under full anticoagulation in 150 consecutive patients receiving non-heparin-coated intracoronary Palmaz-Schatz stents

Intracoronary stenting has been shown to have better immediate and long-term clinical outcomes and less restenosis than standard balloon angioplasty. However, the benefit was achieved at the cost of higher rates of coronary thrombosis, bleeding complications, the need for anticoagulation, and longer hospital stay. For the latter reasons there is a tendency to replace the anticoagulants by antiplatelet agents alone after stenting. However, we prospectively monitored 150 consecutive patients (133 men, 17 women, mean age 58.5 years) from two centers since February 1993. They all had coronary artery disease and underwent percutaneous implantation of non-heparin-coated Palmaz-Schatz coronary stents under a full but lower dose of anticoagulation. The femoral approach was used in all patients except one. In the 150 patients, 200 stents were implanted in 165 target arteries with 172 lesions. Stenting was performed without the guidance of intravascular ultrasonography; high-pressure poststenting inflation was used in only 17.3% of patients with less than optimal angiographic results. Coronary angiography was performed at baseline, immediately after the procedure, and after 6 months (mean 207 +/- 53.6 days SD) of stenting. The mean (+/-SD) coronary minimum luminal diameter increased from 0.52 0.31 mm to 3.13 +/- 0.42 mm immediately after stenting was performed and was 2.12 +/- 0.91 mm at 6 months. There was a 0% subacute thrombosis rate and a 0% femoral bleeding complication rate in the whole series. Only three (2%) major events occurred: one Q-wave myocardial infarction from closure of an angioplasty site distal to the stent on a very long lesion, one cerebrovascular accident, and one noncoronary-related death. The only patient who underwent the brachial approach had hematoma; otherwise no other minor event occurred. The mean hospital stay was 4.5 days in one of the two study centers. The long-term clinical follow-up rate was 97.3%. The mean (+/- SD) clinical follow-up period was 589 +/- 363 days. Clinical symptoms improved; the percentage of patients who had angina according to the Canadian Cardiovascular Society functional class II, III, and IV was 31.3%, 44.7%, and 4%, respectively, before stenting was performed and was reduced to 4.7%, 3.7%, and 0%, respectively at 6-month follow-up after stenting was performed. The 6-month angiographic restudy rate was 90.6%, and the restenosis rate was 18.3%. In contrast to other reported series, these results support the idea that with careful puncture technique and meticulous postoperative wound care, intracoronary stenting can be successfully performed with the patient under full anticoagulation without major risks of bleeding and femoral vascular complications. Furthermore with a full but comparatively lower dose of anticoagulation, subacute thrombotic complications can be reduced to 0% even with non-heparin-coated stents without the use of intravascular ultrasound guidance and without the use of adjunctive high-pressure poststenting inflation in most patients. The restenosis rate and long-term clinical outcomes remained very favorable.

Alterations of subtypes of cardiac adrenoceptors in old rat

AIM

To determine alterations of subtypes of myocardial adrenoceptors in senescence.

METHODS

Heart membrane preparations were made from 3- and 25-month old Wistar rats. Alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors were measured by radioligand, 125I-BE2254 and 125I-pindolol, binding assays, respectively.

RESULTS

In the old rat heart, alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptor densities were declined from the young rats of 119 +/- 4 and 45.9 +/- 1.9 pmol L-1 to 70 +/- 6 and 36.4 +/- 1.6 pmol L-1 (P < 0.01), with a greater change in alpha 1-AR and in beta-AR. The ratio of alpha 1A/alpha 1B subtypes was decreased from the young rats of 39/61 to the old rats of 26/74 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The cardiac adrenoceptors are decreased with different extents in the different subtypes in old rats.

A new alpha 1-adrenergic receptor subtype with low affinity for 5-methyl-urapidil but insensitive to chlorethylclonidine

In the present study, we found that a novel alpha 1-adrenergic receptor subtype existed in rat heart by radioligand binding assay. This new alpha 1-adrenergic receptor subtype was different from alpha 1A-, alpha 1B-, alpha 1C-, and alpha 1D-subtypes reported recently. It had high affinity for WB4101, as the same of alpha 1A-subtype, but low affinity for 5-methyl-urapidil, and was insensitive to chlorethylclonidine.

Experimental studies of laser myocardial revascularization in rats

Myocardial revascularization by Nd: YAG laser used in rats with myocardial infarction was studied. The left coronary artery was ligated and the laser channels with a diameter of 300 microns were made immediately by 2.5-4.2 W lasersonics YAG unit. After 24 hours, the rats were killed. Evaluation included hemodynamics, lactate dehydrogenase of myocardium and myocardial infarct size. The results showed that laser myocardial revascularization reduced myocardial infarct size and enzyme leakage, and improved left ventricular function. The study may provide theoretical basis for the clinical applications of this new technique in the treatment of ischemic heart disease.

[Antiinflammatory drugs inhibit the elevation of plasma CGRP concentration in endotoxin shock in rats]

In the present study, we observed the effects of indomethacin, ibuprofen, naloxone and morphine on plasma CGRP concentration 3 h after endotoxin shock in conscious rats. The results showed that indomethacin, ibuprofen and naloxone significantly inhibited the elevation of plasma CGRP concentration as well as reduced the lesion in the intestine during endotoxin shock. However, morphine had no significant effect. The data are consistent with our hypothesis that prostaglandin, as one of the inflammatory mediators which increase in shock may be an important endogenous factor for triggering the CGRP release during endotoxin shock.

[Radioligand assay of beta adrenoceptors in lymphocytes isolated from rat spleen]

[3H]Dihydroalprenolol ([3H]DHA) was used to label beta-adrenoceptors in intact lymphocytes isolated from rat spleen. The binding conditions were investigated by the methods of L9 (3(4)) orthogonal analysis, the results showed the optimum binding conditions were pH 7.7, 1 x 10(8) lymphocytes.ml-1 and 10 min at 25 degrees C for incubation. On these conditions the [3H]DHA binding to beta-adrenoceptors was rapid (T1/2 2 min) and readily reversed by propranolol 1 mmol.L-1 (T1/2 4 min). [3H]DHA saturation experiments indicated a single class of site with a KD of 7.2 +/- 2.2 nmol.L-1 and Bmax of 81 +/- 28 fmol/10(7) lymphocytes (n = 3). Computer analysis of competition experiments with isoproterenol and epinephrine revealed two classes of sites. One site had high affinity for the [3H]DHA and comprised 60 +/- 5% of the total number of sites, whereas the other site had a lower affinity. The affinity of the high affinity site was about 3 orders of magnitude higher than that of the lower affinity site.

[Effects of thyroxine on IgM production and beta-adrenergic receptor on lymphocyte in mice]

The effects of thyroxine (L-T4) on the IgM production of splenocytes in mice induced by sheep red blood cell (SRBC) were investigated by means of spectrophotometry of quantitative hemolysis (QHS). The maximum binding site number (Bmax) and affinity (Kd) of beta-adrenergic receptors (beta-Adr. R.) on splenic lymphocytes of mice under the different thyroid functional status during immune response were determined by radio-ligand combination method. The IgM production and Bmax of beta- Adr. R. of splenic lymphocytes were increased in "hyperthyroid mice" and decreased in "hypothyroid mice" as compared with the control (P less than 0.01) during the 3rd to 5th day after immunization with SRBC, but affinity of beta-Adr. R. was not changed (P greater than 0.05). It is suggested that L-T4 could increase the IgM production in lymphocytes induced by SRBC in mice. The underlying mechanism seems to involve an increasing Bmax of beta-Adr. R. on the immune cell, thus enhancing its sensitivity to catecholamine.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide in the pathogenesis and treatment of hypertension

The present study demonstrated that the plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) concentration was lower but the CGRP content of abdominal aorta was higher in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in normotensive rats (WKY), using specific CGRP radioimmunoassay (P less than 0.01). In eighteen patients with essential hypertension, the concentration of plasma CGRP was also much lower than that of normal subjects, suggesting that a decreased release of arterial CGRP might be a part of the pathogenesis of essential hypertension. In SHR, a significant decrease in blood pressure was found following intravenous injection of 2.5 micrograms/kg of CGRP; similarly, in seven patients with essential hypertension intravenous injection of CGRP (50 micrograms) could induce a significant hypotensive effect. These data suggest that CGRP is a new potential drug for the treatment of essential hypertension.