Subjective Evaluation of Denture Adhesives: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Many reports show that denture adhesives improve the retention and stability of dentures. However, few randomized controlled trials have examined the effects of denture adhesives.

OBJECTIVE

This 10-center randomized controlled trial with parallel groups involving 200 edentulous patients wearing complete dentures aimed to evaluate the effects of short-term use of cream and powder denture adhesives.

METHODS

Patients were allocated into 2 cream- and powder-type adhesive groups and 1 control group. Intervention groups were treated with the 2 adhesives (1 each), and the control group received saline solution. Adhesive or control was applied to the denture-mucosal surface for 4 d, and data at baseline and after day 4 of intervention (i.e., 8 meals) were obtained. Patient satisfaction was evaluated with a 100-mm visual analog scale. Oral health-related quality of life was measured with the Japanese version of the Oral Health Impact Profile for Edentulous Patients. Perceived chewing ability was evaluated by a questionnaire regarding ease of chewing and swallowing food. Between-group comparisons were performed with Kruskal-Wallis tests with the Mann-Whitney U test adjusted by Bonferroni correction. Within-group comparisons of pre- and postintervention measurements were performed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Intention-to-treat analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

Between-group comparisons showed no significant differences for general satisfaction or Oral Health Impact Profile for Edentulous Patients. However, significant differences in satisfaction with various denture functions with cream- and powder-type adhesives were seen in pre- and postintervention comparisons (P < 0.05). Significant differences were also observed for perceived chewing ability of hard foods (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that although denture adhesives do not invariably improve denture function, they do affect subjective evaluations and possibly chewing of hard foods. Therefore, the effects of denture adhesive use are insufficient to resolve any fundamental dissatisfaction with dentures ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01712802 ).

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

The results of this study suggest that denture adhesives should be applied under certain conditions; however, an appropriate diagnosis is important before application. These practice-based data provide information to establish evidence-based guidelines for applying denture adhesives.

Maternal Separation Induces Orofacial Mechanical Allodynia in Adulthood

It is well known that exposure to maternal separation (MS) in early life causes plastic changes in the nervous system in adulthood, occasionally resulting in ubiquitous chronic pain. However, the pathogenic mechanisms of pain hypersensitivity remain unclear. Here, the authors examined the involvement of corticosterone in orofacial mechanical hypersensitivity induced by MS. To establish a rat model of MS, pups were placed in isolated cages 180 min/d and kept in a temperature-controlled environment at 22 ± 2 °C for 14 d. Mechanical allodynia in the whisker pad skin in adulthood was induced by MS and was significantly suppressed by successive postnatal subcutaneous administration of the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone. Corticosterone levels were increased in the serum of MS rats, and successive postnatal administration of subcutaneous corticosterone to naive rats induced mechanical allodynia in the whisker pad skin. The number of P2X3 receptor-immunoreactive (P2X3R-IR) trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons innervating the whisker pad skin was significantly increased in MS rats and decreased following subcutaneous administration of mifepristone. The number of P2X3R-IR TG neurons innervating the whisker pad skin was also significantly increased following successive postnatal administration of subcutaneous corticosterone in naive rats. Moreover, the mechanical allodynia was suppressed 30 min after administration of the P2X3R antagonist A317491 to the whisker pad skin in MS rats. These findings suggest that the increase in P2X3R-IR TG neurons innervating the whisker pad skin via enhanced neonatal corticosterone signaling by MS plays an important role in orofacial mechanical allodynia in adulthood.

Human hepatic metabolism of the anti-osteoporosis drug eldecalcitol involves sterol C4-methyl oxidase

The metabolism of eldecalcitol (ED-71), a 2β-hydroxypropoxylated analog of the active form of vitamin D₃ was investigated by using in vitro systems. ED-71 was metabolized to 1α,2β,25-trihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1α,2β,25(OH)₃D₃) in human small intestine and liver microsomes. To identify the enzymes involved in this metabolism, we examined NADPH-dependent metabolism by recombinant P450 isoforms belonging to the CYP1, 2, and 3 families, and revealed that CYP3A4 had the activity. However, the CYP3A4 -specific inhibitor, ketoconazole, decreased the activity in human liver microsomes by only 36%, suggesting that other enzymes could be involved in ED-71 metabolism. Because metabolism was dramatically inhibited by cyanide, we assumed that sterol C4-methyl oxidase like gene product (SC4MOL) might contribute to the metabolism of ED-71. It is noted that SC4MOL is physiologically essential for cholesterol synthesis. Recombinant human SC4MOL expressed in COS7, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or Escherichia coli cells converted ED-71 to 1α,2β,25(OH)₃D₃. Furthermore, we evaluated the metabolism of ED-71 by recombinant CYP24A1, which plays an important role in the metabolism of the active form of vitamin D₃ (1α,25(OH)₂D₃) and its analogs. The k_cat/K_m value for 24- or 23-hydroxylation of ED-71 was only 3% of that for 1α,25(OH)₂D₃, indicating that ED-71 was resistant to CYP24A1-dependent catabolism. Among the three enzymes catalyzing ED-71, SC4MOL appears to be most important in the metabolism of ED-71. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study showing that SC4MOL can function as a drug-metabolizing enzyme. The yeast and E. coli expression systems for SC4MOL could be useful for structure-function analyses of SC4MOL.

Potential for acceleration of bone formation after implant surgery by using a dietary supplement: an animal study

Dental implant treatment is an effective modality to restore lost aesthetic and masticatory functions. However, healing after implant surgery takes at least 3-6 months. This prolonged healing period poses several difficulties for individuals with a large edentulous area and decreases their quality of life. Consequently, shortening the healing period and accelerating final prosthesis placement after surgery is very clinically important. Peri-implant bone formation may be enhanced by systemic approaches, such as the use of osteoporosis supplements, to promote bone metabolism. To confirm whether intake of a supplement developed for osteoporosis, synthetic bone mineral (SBM), was effective in accelerating peri-implant bone formation as part of the healing process after implantation. Twenty-four 5-week-old female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to receive a standardised diet without (control group, n = 12) or with SBM (n = 12). The rats had implant surgery at 8 weeks of age under general anaesthesia. The main outcome measures were bone mineral density (BMD) and pull-out strength in the implant and femur, which were compared between the groups at 2 and 4 weeks after implantation using the Mann-Whitney U test. BMD was significantly greater in the SBM group at 2 and 4 weeks after implantation compared to the control group. Pull-out strength was significantly greater in the SBM groups at 2 and 4 weeks after implantation compared to the control group. This study demonstrated that SBM could be effective in accelerating peri-implant bone formation during the healing period after implantation.

Reliability of pain tolerance threshold testing by applying an electrical current stimulus to the alveolar ridge

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of testing pain tolerance threshold (PTT) by applying an electrical current stimulus to the alveolar ridge. Twenty volunteers studying or working at the Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo participated in this study. Participants were seated comfortably on a dental chair in a quiet room during testing. A single operator obtained mucosal PTT measurements around the right greater palatine foramen using a Neurometer CPT/C(®) device (Neurotron Inc., Baltimore, MD, USA) to deliver electrical stimulation at frequencies of 5, 250 and 2000 Hz. The participant released a button to automatically discontinue the stimulus when it could no longer be tolerated. Two types of factors were confirmed: the consistency of repeated measurements and a potential carry-over effect on PTTs. The consistency and carry-over effects of pain with regard to PTT measurements were analysed via Cronbach's coefficient α. The Cronbach's coefficient α of PTTs calculated more than 6 days of PTT testing at 5, 250 and 2000 Hz was 0.97, 0.95 and 0.97, respectively, suggesting that the consistency of the measurements was excellent. The Cronbach's coefficient α calculated when the three frequencies of 5, 250 and 2000 Hz were applied in different orders was 0.91, 0.87 and 0.90, respectively, suggesting no carry-over effect. In conclusion, the measurement of PTTs at the alveolar ridge as assessed by applying an electrical current stimulus with an electro-diagnostic device exhibited excellent reliability, and thus, it constitutes a widely available option for PTT measurement in the clinical setting.

Effect of dentist's clinical experience on treatment satisfaction of a complete denture

The relationship between the prosthodontic experience of dentists and satisfaction of complete denture wearers remains unknown. To investigate whether a prosthodontist's clinical experience affects treatment satisfaction of a complete denture wearer. From April 2004 to July 2006, we conducted a randomised controlled trial at two centres, including 74 edentulous patients; of these, 32 and 30 were randomly allocated to the ED or ID group, respectively. All the patients rated their satisfaction with dentures, including general satisfaction and satisfaction of chewing ability, speaking, cleaning, stability, retention, comfort and aesthetics. These satisfaction ratings were measured by a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS). Perceived chewing ability to foods, divided into five grades, was measured using a questionnaire. The mastication index (MI) was calculated for each grade. General satisfaction and satisfaction of speaking, stability and retention were significantly higher in the ED than in the ID group (P = 0·049, 0·003, 0·019 and 0·041, respectively). No significant difference existed between the MI of the ED (71·3 ± 18·4) and ID group (64·1 ± 16·53). However, the perceived chewing ability of grade 5 food, whose texture was the hardest among all the grades, was significantly higher in the ED group than in the ID group. Within its limitations, this study showed that a clinician's prosthodontic experience affects a complete denture wearer's satisfaction ratings.

Reduction of shrinkage on heat-activated acrylic denture base resin obtaining gradual cooling after processing

Heat-activated acrylic denture base resin is widely used for its many good attributes, although it does show polymerization shrinkage. Although several processing methods have been developed for the purpose of minimizing polymerization shrinkage, some warping after processing is inevitable. The purpose of this study was to examine the development of residual stress relaxation in resin denture base samples in the region where shrinkage was restricted, in order to clarify how cooling variations in the stone mould influenced the shrinkage. Flat, dumbbell-shaped specimens were used. Thermocouples and strain gauges were embedded in the resin for measuring temperature and strain during the dough-stage of resin packing. To clarify stress relaxation in the stone mould, specimens were removed from the stone mould by de-flasking 4 h after the start of cooling at room temperature (control), and 12 and 24 h from the start of gradual cooling in a water bath. The strain differences between before and after removing from the stone mould for the control, and 12- and 24-h experimental groups were 1793, 1354 and 1093 mu epsilon, respectively. Our results suggest that a gradual cooling course for 12 h or more after processing a heat-activated acrylic denture base is effective for lessening deformation of the prosthesis.

Hypoplasia of primary and permanent teeth following osteitis and the implications of delayed diagnosis of a neonatal maxillary primary molar

A 2-year-and-6-month-old Japanese girl with delayed eruption of a maxillary right primary canine and disturbance in the development of maxillary right primary molars was examined. The crown of the maxillary right first primary molar was severely decayed and hypoplastic. The periodontal tissues on the maxillary right posterior region were swollen and slight erythrogenic change was observed. Radiographic examination revealed a disturbance in the development of the permanent successor and the primary teeth in the maxillary right quadrant. According to the history, the maxillary right first primary molar had erupted on day seven after birth. It is suggested that the disturbance in development of the permanent successor and the primary teeth was secondary to osteitis caused by infection of the neonatal tooth. Appropriate dental treatment had not been administered for more than two years because the neonatal molar had not been diagnosed.

Production of cloned mice from embryonic stem cells arrested at metaphase

In mammals, cloned individuals can be produced from somatic cells. The combined use of gene targeting in embryonic stem cells and cloning contributes to the investigation of gene function in mammals. However, one of the major limitations to cloning is the low viability of cloned embryos, leading typically to high rates of pre- and postnatal death. The present study investigated whether cloning efficiency is influenced by the procedural differences involved in using transfected embryonic stem cells arrested at M phase for cloning by both single and serial transfer. In contrast to a previous study, in which fibroblasts were used, in the present study using embryonic stem cells there was no difference in the rate of production of cloned pups after the use of a single or serial nuclear transfer, although the proportion of blastocysts (70% versus 51%) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) after serial nuclear transfer. After embryo transfer of 445 blastocysts, 218 (49%) implanted and 27 (6% of blastocysts transferred) live pups were born. Of these 27 pups, 23 developed to adults of apparently normal fertility. Of these adults, 39% (n = 9) were derived from targeted embryonic stem cells, which is similar to the proportion of targeted embryonic stem cells in the population used for cloning. This study showed that cloning with embryonic stem cells is a viable procedure resulting in the production of transgenic cloned adults.

Comparative effects of vitamin K2 and estradiol on experimental arteriosclerosis with diabetes mellitus

In order to further investigate the radical scavenging and anti-arteriosclerotic activities of vitamin K2 and estradiol, the comparative effects of vitamin K2 and estradiol on aortic calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphorus (P) levels in the aorta and the elastin fraction (fr.) were investigated in male rats after experimental arteriosclerosis with diabetes mellitus was induced by vitamin D2 and radical producing substance, streptozotocin (STZ). Pharmacological dose of vitamin K2 (100 mg/kg b.w.) and medical dose of estradiol (83 micrograms/kg b.w.) suppressed the increased serum glucose, and vitamin K2 and estradiol increased the decrease in serum insulin. Moreover, vitamin K2 and estradiol inhibited the increase of Ca and P in the aorta and the elastin fr. Vitamin K2 and estradiol decreased the increase in serum lipid peroxide (LPO). It is suggested that both the pharmacological dose of vitamin K2 and medical dose of estradiol suppressed the development of arteriosclerosis associated with diabetes mellitus, owing to radical scavenging activity of vitamin K2 and estradiol.

Heat-shock preconditioning reduces oxidative protein denaturation and ameliorates liver injury by carbon tetrachloride in rats

Membrane lipids and cytosolic proteins are major targets of oxidative injury. This study examined the effect of heat-shock preconditioning associated with the induction of heat-shock protein 72 on liver injury, from the aspect of lipid peroxidation and protein denaturation after carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) administration in rats--one of the representative oxidative injuries. Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups, group HS (preconditioned by heat exposure) and group C (not preconditioned). Expression of HSP72 in the liver tissue was confirmed by Western blot analysis. After a 48-h recovery period, all rats were given CCl4 intragastrically. Liver damage was assessed by measuring serum liver-related enzyme levels and adenine nucleotide concentration in the liver tissue. Lipid peroxidation and protein denaturation were evaluated by measuring tiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and by immunohistochemical staining of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal(HNE)-modified proteins in the liver. Survival rates of the rats after CCl4 administration were also compared. Expression of HSP72 was clearly detected in group HS, but not in group C. Heat-shock preconditioning significantly improved the survival rate, suppressed the increase in liver-related enzyme levels and maintained adenosine triphosphate levels (P<0.01 each). HNE-modified proteins--denatured proteins by free radical attack--were significantly less stained in group HS than in group C (P<0.05). However, TBARS levels did not differ between groups. Because heat-shock preconditioning did not alter TBARS levels but reduced HNE-modified proteins in association with the expression of HSP72, it is suggested that HSP72 did not prevent lipid peroxidation but decreased the lipid peroxidation-induced denaturation of proteins. This seemed to be a mechanism of heat-shock preconditioning to ameliorate oxidative liver injury.

The augmentative effect of repeated heat shock preconditioning on the production of heat shock protein 72 and on ischemic tolerance in rat liver tissue

OBJECTIVE

Heat shock pretreatment induces heat shock protein (HSP)72 strongly in rat livers and provides the tolerance against subsequent ischemia-reperfusion injury. In this study, the effects of repeated heat shock pretreatment on the production of HSP72 in rat livers and on subsequent ischemic tolerance were investigated.

METHODS

Rats pretreated with repeated heat shock were compared with those that received a single heat shock pretreatment. The production of HSP72 was analysed using Western-blotting and densitometer. At 48 h after heat shock pretreatment, all rats were subjected to warm liver ischemia for 30 or 45 min and then reperfused. Survival rate of the animals and liver functions during reperfusion were analysed.

RESULTS

The production of HSP72 increased in the repeated heat shock group more than in the single heat shock group. Although there were no significant differences in animal survival or in liver functions after a 30-min ischemia between the single heat shock group and the repeated heat shock group, animal survival and liver functions after a 45-min ischemia were significantly better in the repeated heat shock group.

CONCLUSION

In rats, repetition of heat shock pretreatment augmented the production of HSP72 in liver tissue and protected the liver from ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Heat shock preconditioning on mitochondria during warm ischemia in rat livers

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of stress tolerance from heat shock preconditioning on changes in mitochondrial functions during ischemia-reperfusion injury of the liver.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were divided into a heat shock group (group HS) and a control group (group C). In group HS, rats received heat shock pretreatment 48 h prior to ischemia-reperfusion. Heat shock pretreatment was performed in a water bath at 42 degrees C for 15 min under general anesthesia. In group C, the same treatment was done with the water bath at 37 degrees C instead of at 42 degrees C. A 30-min warm ischemia by cramping the hepatoduodinal ligament (Pringle's maneuver) followed by a 60-min reperfusion was administered to all rats. Changes in membrane potential of hepatic mitochondria (MPM); mitochondrial respiratory function before ischemia (n = 5), after ischemia (n = 10), and after reperfusion (n = 10); and ATP recovery after reperfusion were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

After a 30-min ischemia, MPM in group C decreased significantly and did not recover even after reperfusion. On the other hand, MPM in group HS was maintained even after a 30-min ischemia and 60 min into reperfusion as well. The respiratory control ratio (RCR) of the mitochondria in group C decreased to as low as 5.06 +/- 0.72 after a 30-min ischemia, but in group HS, RCR was maintained near a normal level. The ATP level recovered significantly earlier in group HS than in group C after reperfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Heat shock preconditioning of the liver protected mitochondria from loss of membrane integrity during ischemia and contributed to their ability to produce energy-rich phosphates during reperfusion.

Sarcoidosis with membranous nephropathy and granulomatous interstitial nephritis

A 49-year-old woman, who had been diagnosed as sarcoidosis based on bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy and lung biopsy, presented increased serum creatinine and calcium concentrations. Renal biopsy showed the presence of interstitial nephritis with non-caseating epithelioid granuloma and focal membranous transformation. Therapy with prednisolone was effective in normalizing serum creatinine, serum calcium, serum angiotensin converting enzyme, and urine beta2 microglobulin, but these abnormalities reappeared after rapid withdrawal of prednisolone. This is a rare case of sarcoidosis manifested by both membranous nephropathy and granulomatous interstitial nephritis, and indicates the necessity of long-term treatment of corticosteroid.

Pharmacologic stimulation of adenosine A2 receptor supplants ischemic preconditioning in providing ischemic tolerance in rat livers

BACKGROUND

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is a promising strategy for conferring ischemic tolerance. We confirmed the acquisition of ischemic tolerance in the liver immediately after IPC and the role of adenosine kinetics in this process.

METHODS

Male Lewis rats were used. IPC was administered with a 10-minute ischemia followed by a 10-minute reperfusion. Ischemic tolerance was tested with a 45-minute ischemia. Changes in the adenosine concentrations in liver tissue were evaluated, and the effects of adenosine A1 or A2 receptor agonists or antagonists were examined either in place of or against IPC.

RESULTS

The 7-day animal survival was significantly better in the IPC group than in the control group (87% vs 53%; n = 15, P < .05). The release of liver-related enzymes during reperfusion was suppressed better in the IPC group (P < .01). Recovery of adenosine triphosphate levels was faster in the IPC group (P < .01). After IPC, adenosine concentrations in liver tissue immediately increased to 1555 +/- 299 pmol/g wet tissue and were maintained at that level during a subsequent 45-minute ischemia. The ischemic tolerance generated by IPC was mimicked by the administration of adenosine A2 receptor agonist and opposed by adenosine A2 receptor antagonist.

CONCLUSIONS

The ischemic tolerance of the liver immediately after IPC can be supplanted by selective pharmacologic stimulation of adenosine A2 receptors.

Cytokine secretion of periodontal ligament fibroblasts derived from human deciduous teeth: effect of mechanical stress on the secretion of transforming growth factor-beta 1 and macrophage colony stimulating factor

The periodontal ligament may play an important role in tooth eruption, root development and resorption. The tissue physiologically receives mechanical force during mastication. We focused on the effects of intermittent mechanical strain on the cytokine synthesis of periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts in vitro. The cells were derived from human periodontal ligament of deciduous teeth (HPLF-Y) and permanent teeth (HPLF). The two kinds of PDL cells and human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) were cultured in flexible bottomed culture plates. The cells were mechanically stretched at 5% elongation, 3-cycles/min for 24 h on d 7 in culture using a Flexercell strain unit. After the stretching, we measured DNA content and alkaline phosphatase activity in the cell layer, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) and macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) contents in the conditioned medium. The TGF-beta 1 level in the conditioned medium of HPLF was significantly higher than that of HPLF-Y and HGF. It was stimulated by mechanical stretching only on HPLF, whereas no significant effect was observed on HPLF-Y and HGF. M-CSF secretion was inhibited by the stretching on all of HPLF, HPLF-Y and HGF. 1 alpha, 25 dihydroxy vitamin D3 (D3) stimulated M-CSF secretion into the culture medium of both HPLF and HPLF-Y, but the stretching inhibited M-CSF secretion and completely blocked the enhancement by D3. These data suggest that periodontal ligament cells synthesize and secrete the molecules as autocrine or paracrine factors that affect bone remodelling and root resorption and the level of those factors change in response to mechanical stress.

Preoperative evaluation of hepatic functional reserve following hepatectomy by technetium-99m galactosyl human serum albumin liver scintigraphy and computed tomography

It is extremely important to have a good grasp of the acceptable limit of hepatectomy before operation because postoperative liver failure can take a fatal course; however, baseline data on the limit of hepatectomy have not been clearly defined. We therefore evaluated and compared the predicted remnant liver function obtained by computed tomography(CT) and technetium-99m diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid-galactosyl human serum albumin (99mTc-GSA) liver scintigraphy in order to obtain precise data regarding remnant liver function before hepatectomy. We investigated 20 patients undergoing hepatectomy using the clearance rate of indocyanine green (KICG) as a parameter, and compared the predicted postoperative KICG obtained by CT and by transaxial single-photon emission tomographic (SPET) images acquired by 99mTc GSA liver scintigraphy before hepatectomy. In GSA studies, based on time-activity curves for the heart and liver, we compared HH15 (heart activity at 15 min divided by heart activity at 3 min), LHL15 (liver activity at 15 min divided by heart plus liver activity at 15 min) and KL (obtained from the time-activity curve for the liver) in 103 patients. In 58 patients without increased serum bilirubin, KL was compared with KICG. In four patients, occlusion of the right portal vein was performed with the aim of carrying out secondary hepatectomy, and changes in liver volume were compared between CT and 99mTc GSA liver scintigraphy. The correlation coefficient between the postoperative KICG predicted by CT and the actual postoperative KICG was rather poor, at r = 0.569 (P < 0.05); that between the postoperative KICG predicted by 99mTc GSA liver scintigraphy and the actual postoperative KICG was good, at r = 0.788 (P < 0.01); correlations between KL and HH15 and between KL and LHL15 in 103 patients were very good or good, at r = 0.906 (P < 0.001) and r = 0.807 (P < 0.001), respectively, and that between KL and KICG in 58 patients was very good, at r = 0.916 (P < 0.001). In all four cases of right portal vein occlusion, the remnant liver volume ratio was markedly increased after occlusion in GSA compared with CT, and the postoperative KICG predicted by GSA after occlusion was closer to the actual postoperative KICG than that predicted by CT. It is concluded that 99mTc GSA liver scintigraphy is useful for predicting remnant liver function before hepatectomy and for evaluating changes in regional liver function after occlusion of the portal vein unilaterally.

Heat shock preconditioning ameliorates liver injury following normothermic ischemia-reperfusion in steatotic rat livers

The decreased tolerance of steatotic livers to warm ischemia complicates liver surgery. The efficacy of heat shock preconditioning in steatotic livers to lessen ischemia-reperfusion injury was studied in rats. Steatotic liver was produced in Lewis rats with a choline-deficient diet. Rats with steatotic livers were divided into a heat shock preconditioned group (group HS) and a control group (group C). All rats received 45 min of hepatic warm ischemia. Survival rates and changes in biochemical and histological parameters were compared in both groups. Heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) was produced only in group HS. The 7-day survival of the rats after warm ischemic intervention was significantly better in group HS (13/15) than in group C (5/15) (P < 0.01). The concentration of ATP in liver tissue (n = 10, P < 0.01) and serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (n = 10, P < 0.05), alanine aminotransferase (n = 10, P < 0.01), and lactic dehydrogenase (n = 10, P < 0.01) at 40 min reperfusion were also significantly better in group HS than in group C. Histological examination at 40 min reperfusion showed severe sinusoidal congestion, hepatocyte necrosis, and increased positivity to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-modified proteins in group C livers; these signs were markedly suppressed in group HS livers. The data indicate that heat shock preconditioning provides the steatotic rat liver with significant tolerance to warm ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Distortion behavior of heat-activated acrylic denture-base resin in conventional and long, low-temperature processing methods

There have been many reports on fatal distortion of heat-activated acrylic denture-base resin which is still widely used in the field of removable prosthodontics. However, these reports have failed to report quantitatively on polymerization and thermal shrinkage factors. In the present study, we attempted to verify that the shrinkage of heat-activated acrylic denture-base resin was caused mainly by thermal contraction after processing. Furthermore, we examined the degree of distortion resulting from long, low-temperature processing, and compared the results with that of the conventional method. The strain gauge and thermo-couple were embedded in a specimen at the time of resin packing. The measurement started from the beginning of processing and continued until the specimen was bench-cooled and immediately before and after it was de-flasked, as well as during seven-day immersion in water at 37 degrees C. The resin expanded when processed by the conventional method. Meanwhile, mild shrinkage, possibly polymerization shrinkage, was observed when the resin was processed by the low-temperature method. This suggested that polymerization shrinkage was compensated for by thermal expansion during processing by the conventional method. Moreover, the shrinkage strains in the period from the completion of processing to immediately after de-flasking, in both the conventional and low-temperature methods, were identical to the theoretical value of thermal shrinkage which we obtained by multiplying the linear coefficients of thermal expansion by temperature differences. The shrinkage strain in the specimen processed by the low-temperature method, measured from the end of processing to immediately after de-flasking, averaged 64% of that in the specimen processed by the conventional method. The results revealed quantitatively that the shrinkage of heat-activated acrylic denture-base resin was mainly thermal shrinkage, and demonstrated the advantage of the low-temperature method in reducing thermal shrinkage.

Induction of heat shock response: effect on the rat liver with carbon tetrachloride-induced fibrosis from ischemia-reperfusion injury

The role of heat shock pretreatment in the induction of tolerance for ischemia-reperfusion injury was investigated in rat livers with fibrosis produced by carbon tetrachloride (CCI4) injected subcutaneously. The control group (group C, n = 56) received no pretreatment except anesthesia, and the heat shock group (group HS, n = 56) were exposed to heat shock (42 degrees C) for 15 minutes. After a 48-hour recovery all rats were subjected to 30 minutes of warm ischemia. Western blotting analysis was employed for heat shock protein (HSP) 72 detection. The adenine nucleotide levels in liver tissue and the liver enzyme levels in serum were measured before and after ischemic intervention (seven animals were used at each of six time point measurements in both groups). HSP72 was induced in group HS at greater intensity than in group C. The survival rate on postoperative day 7 in group C (3/14) was significantly poorer than that in group HS (14/14) (p < 0.01). The higher survival rate in group HS was accompanied by more rapid recovery of the adenosine triphosphate level and lower serum levels of liver enzymes after reperfusion (p < 0.01 vs. group C). Heat shock preconditioning induces HSP72 in the rat liver with fibrosis and provides significantly increased tolerance of warm-ischemia reperfusion injury.

Induction of manganese superoxide dismutase by thyroid stimulating hormone in rat thyroid cells

Alterations in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) content of thyroid tissues occurring in association with thyroid dysfunction have been reported. In this study, the Mn-SOD content was found to increase in thyroid tissues of rats administered thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and in thyrocytes cultured in medium supplemented with TSH. Furthermore, in the thyroid glands of rats whose serum TSH level was elevated by inhibiting the synthesis of T3 and T4 by 6-methyl-2-thiouracil, the Mn-SOD increased as the TSH concentration increased. In the cultured thyrocytes, the increase in Mn-SOD induced by TSH was inhibited by the C-kinase inhibitor H7. These findings suggest the induction of Mn-SOD by TSH in thyroid cells and point to a role of C-kinase in this process, thereby indicating that a close relationship exists between the serum TSH level and the change in Mn-SOD content in thyrocytes with thyroid dysfunction.

Pharmacological studies on a new antihypertensive agent, S-2150, a benzothiazepine derivative: 3. Hypotensive and antimyocardial-stunning effects in dogs

The hypotensive and antimyocardial-stunning effects of a new 1,5-benzothiazepine antihypertensive agent, S-2150, were investigated in dogs. S-2150 (30 mg/kg, p.o.) decreased the blood pressure in conscious renal hypertensive dogs. Although the maximal hypotensive effect of S-2150 was observed at 5-9 h after administration, the effect of diltiazem was seen at 2.0 h. Arrhythmia was not observed as a hypotensive effects of S-2150 but was markedly induced by diltiazem. In anesthetized open-chest dogs, S-2150 (20 micrograms/kg/min, i.v.) caused by hypotensive effect similar to that of diltiazem but decreased myocardial work (double product) by much less than did diltiazem. S-2150 more promptly improved the local myocardial stunning caused by occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery and its reperfusion. This effect did not accompany the energy-sparing action in ischemic/reperfused myocardium, which was different from the case of diltiazem. In isolated dog mesenteric arteries, S-2150 relaxed KCl and phenylephrine contracture. These results suggest that S-2150 is a favorable hypotensive agent for hypertensive patients with ischemic heart disease. Blockage of both Ca2+ channels and alpha 1-adrenoceptors by S-2150 seems to lead to cardiovascular effects different from those of diltiazem.

Ischemic preconditioning of the liver in rats: implications of heat shock protein induction to increase tolerance of ischemia-reperfusion injury

It has been reported that ischemic preconditioning of the heart or brain has a possible relevance to heat shock protein (HSP). It is still unknown, however, whether HSP induced by means of ischemic preconditioning of the liver is a direct factor in the acquisition of tolerance to succeeding ischemia-reperfusion injury. In the present study we used ischemic preconditioning of the liver to verify the effects of induced HSP72 in the liver on the subsequent longer warm ischemia and reperfusion. Rats preconditioned with short-term (15-minute) ischemia were compared with rats preconditioned by heat exposure or with control rats. After a 48-hour recovery from the sublethal stress for preconditioning, all rats were exposed to longer (30-minute) warm ischemia and reperfusion. Forty-eight hours after ischemic preconditioning, HSP72 was clearly induced in the liver, as well as in the liver preconditioned with heat shock, but not in the kidney or heart. This ischemic preconditioning also attenuated the liver damage in the subsequent ischemia-reperfusion injury, improving the restoration of hepatic function during reperfusion and resulting in higher postischemic rat survival. According to the proposed model of tolerance acquisition for ischemia-reperfusion injury by stress preconditioning, these observations support the speculation that the induced HSP72 plays some beneficial role in this protection mechanism.

Regional distribution of superoxide dismutase in the brain and myocardium of the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat

1. Enzyme activities and contents of manganese and copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Mn-, Cu/Zn-SOD) and oxygen free-radical scavengers were determined in the myocardium (right, left ventricle) and brain (cerebral cortex, hippocampus) of 15 and 31 week old stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). 2. In 15 week old SHRSP myocardium, both Mn- and Cu/Zn-SOD activities were higher but in 31 week old SHRSP, these were lower than that in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Further, correlation between Mn-SOD content and activity in 31 week old SHRSP myocardium showed that specific activity was lower than that in WKY. 3. In 15 and 31 week old SHRSP cerebral cortex and hippocampus, SOD content and activity showed a tendency to be lower than that in WKY. 4. These results indicate that enzymatically inactive or low-active Mn-SOD protein exists in SHRSP myocardium, and that the alteration of SOD may be one of the causative factors for the vulnerability of the myocardium and brain against O2-radicals.

Portal blood flow in the presence or absence of diffuse liver disease: measurement by phase contrast MR imaging

BACKGROUND

In patients with diffuse liver disease, the portal flow dynamics change markedly in accordance with disease progression and would provide a useful index of progression of stage.

METHODS

Portal blood flow (PBF) was measured by phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 21 patients with diffuse liver disease and 20 healthy volunteers. The MRI method was validated by a flow phantom study. The mean PBF could be measured in 6.8 min without breath-holding.

RESULTS

Doppler ultrasound measurements of PBF volume were obtained reproducibly in all the healthy volunteers and were shown to correlate with the MRI values (Doppler: 12.5 +/- 3.2 cm3/s, MRI: 12.0 +/- 3.3 cm3/s; mean +/- SD). The PBF volume of patients with chronic hepatitis showed no significant difference from that of the healthy volunteers. In patients with liver cirrhosis, the PBF volume ranged from 5.01 to 32.3 cm3/s. A significant increase in PBF volume was caused in one patient by massive intrahepatic shunting and a significant decrease was caused in two patients by massive extrahepatic shunting.

CONCLUSIONS

The measurement of PBF by phase contrast MRI is clinically useful in predicting intrahepatic or extrahepatic shunting in patients with liver cirrhosis, and may be of value in detecting the progression of stage in diffuse liver diseases.

Study on cathepsin B activity in human thyroid tumors

Cathepsin B activity was measured in human thyroid tissue obtained surgically from 2 patients with Grave's disease, 3 with follicular adenoma, 4 with papillary carcinoma, and 4 with follicular carcinoma. Three normal thyroid tissues were also studied. Comparisons were made between cathepsin B activity and clinical findings, including histopathological diagnosis and the presence or absence of extra-capsular invasion and metastasis. The abilities of original tumors to degrade type I and type IV collagen were also measured. Mean cathepsin B activities of both specimens with benign and those with malignant disease were significantly higher than those of normal thyroid. On cases of thyroid carcinoma, those with extra-capsular invasions and metastasis had the highest cathepsin B activities. Cases with high cathepsin B activities also tended to show high type I and IV collagen degrading abilities. These findings suggest that cathepsin B plays a role in the development of extra-capsular invasion and lymph node metastasis in human thyroid tumors.

The effect of glucocorticoid on the synthesis of biglycan and decorin in human osteoblasts and bone marrow stromal cells

We have previously demonstrated that glucocorticoids induce differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) into cells expressing mature osteoblast phenotype. As glucocorticoids have marked effects on extracellular matrix protein synthesis in bone, and because proteoglycans are important components of bone matrix and may condition the differentiation and biological activities of osteoblasts, we studied the effects of dexamethasone (Dex) on the synthesis of small proteoglycans [decorin (DCN) and biglycan (BGN)] in adult human BMSC and human osteoblasts (HOB). First passaged HOB and BMSC were treated with either ethanol or 10(-7) M Dex for 7 days. After treatment, the cells were metabolically labeled with either [35S]SO4 alone or [35S]SO4 and [3H]leucine together for 24 h. Conditioned media were collected, and cell layers were extracted with 4 M guanidine HCl. The extracts and conditioned media were subjected to gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. Fractions containing radiolabeled proteoglycans were analyzed either directly or after immunoprecipitation by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Dex treatment resulted in a dramatic increase in DCN and an associated decrease in BGN in both the conditioned medium and the cell layer of HOB cultures. In Dex-treated BMSC cultures, BGN was decreased in both the conditioned medium and cell layer, whereas DCN was stimulated in the majority of cultures. Northern blot analysis indicated that steady state messenger RNA (mRNA) concentration of DCN was increased by Dex in all of the HOB cultures and in seven of eight BMSC cultures analyzed. The steady state mRNA level of BGN was decreased by Dex in both HOB and BMSC cultures. The regulation of DCN and BGN mRNA by Dex in both HOB and BMSC (when responsive) was dose dependent. Time-course analysis indicated that as little as 1 day of treatment with Dex was sufficient to decrease BGN mRNA and increase DCN mRNA (when observed) levels in BMSC; the regulation spanned a 4-week interval, during which the extracellular matrix of BMSC was mineralized. The effect of Dex on the steady state mRNA levels of DCN and BGN in HOB was also apparent after 1 day of treatment. These accumulated results suggest that Dex modulates the synthesis of small proteoglycans in both human bone marrow stromal osteoprogenitor cells and mature osteoblasts.

Quantitative measurement of portal blood flow by magnetic resonance phase contrast: comparative study of flow phantom and Doppler ultrasound in vivo

A non-invasive method for measuring portal blood flow by magnetic resonance (MR) phase contrast was evaluated in a flow phantom and 20 healthy volunteers. In a flow phantom study, the flow volumes and mean flow velocities measured by MR phase contrast showed close correlations with those measured by electromagnetic flowmetry. In 20 healthy volunteers, the cross-sectional areas, flow volumes and mean flow velocities measured by MR phase contrast correlated well with those measured by the Doppler ultrasound method. Portal blood flow averaged during the imaging time could be measured under natural breathing conditions by using a large number of acquisitions without the limitations imposed on the Doppler ultrasound method. MR phase contrast is considered to be useful for the non-invasive measurement of portal blood flow.

[Changes in myocardial metallothionein on isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury]

The amounts of myocardial metallothionein (MT) and heavy metal (Zn, Cu) levels during the early stage of the experimental myocardial infarction model induced by isoproterenol (Isp) administration were measured by an atomic absorption spectrophotometry. MT was measured by the Cd-hem method. Myocardial infarction was induced by the administration of 75 mg/kg i.p. of Isp to rats weighing 270 +/- 10 g. Thirty minutes after Isp injection, Zn and Cu levels began to decrease and 12 h later, reached the minimal values compared with the control value. The level of MT began to increase 3 h after the Isp injection and reached the maximal value at 12 h, although MT remained undetectable in the control myocardial tissue by the Cd-hem method. MT levels in the liver increased and total Zn and Cu were elevated compared with the control value 12 h after Isp administration. These results suggest that MT is produced in the myocardium after Isp administration, and that the roles of MT in the heart and the liver are different. It was thought that a rise in MT was induced for the protection of the myocardial cells to injury.

[Hepatic arteriography under temporary hepatic venous occlusion]

Hepatic arteriography with and without temporary segmental hepatic vein occlusion was performed in 10 patients, five of whom had chronic liver injury. Hepatic arteriograms obtained during hepatic venous obstruction demonstrated significantly more peripheral and definite arterial branches in the occluded area and fewer peripheral branches in the non-occluded segment. A prolonged, dense hepatogram (sinusoidogram) showing hepatofugal opacification of the portal vein was obtained in the occluded area. Only one case with a large veno-venous anastomosis did not show these findings. Hepatic arteriograms in two cases with hepatocellular carcinoma provided clear visualization of peripheral portal branches that could act as efferent tumor vessels during regional temporary hepatic vein occlusion. Temporary hepatic venous occlusion may cause a sudden increase of hepatic arterial flow in the occluded area and transsinusoidal arterioportal communication there. This method can be useful for the diagnosis and arterial infusion or embolization therapy of hepatic diseases.

A comparative study of dynamic CT and ultrasonic pulsed Doppler method for estimation of the portal blood flow

A new dynamic CT method for evaluating the portal blood flow is described. Thirty healthy volunteers were injected with non-ionic hypo-osmotic iodine contrast medium to estimate the portal blood flow. Time density curves (TD-curves) for the abdominal aorta and the main trunk of the portal vein were determined on the basis of data obtained by dynamic CT. From the TD-curves, portal blood flow coefficient and circulation time to flow into the portal vein (P-P time) were calculated. More detailed data of the TD-curves could be obtained by the new dynamic CT than by the previous methods. Subjects were simultaneously studied by an ultrasonic pulsed Doppler method which has been clinically accepted. There was a significant correlation between our dynamic CT method (portal blood flow coefficient) and the ultrasonic pulsed Doppler method concerning the measurement of portal blood flow. Therefore, it may be concluded that this CT method is reliable and clinically acceptable.

[Evaluation of renal function by dynamic CT]

Dynamic CT scans of the kidney were conducted in 57 persons with varied renal function. The results of dynamic CT were used to obtain time-density curves for renal cortex, medulla and aorta. Various parameters were calculated from these time-density curves. Among them, CA ratio, the ratio of the area under the renal cortex curve to the area under the aortic curve, showed the best correlation with creatinine clearance. With these parameters, dynamic CT studies are believed to be useful in evaluating renal function.

Studies of an aspect of renal function with the aid of dynamic CT and renogram

Dynamic CT scans were conducted on 94 persons who had been randomly selected among the patients and the volunteers. The test results were used to obtain the time-density curve. A part of the subjects (20 cases) underwent the renogram examination for the comparative studies. The cortico-aortic (CA) ratio derived from the time-density curve demonstrated good correlation between the dynamic CT and the renal function (r = 0.68). When the dynamic CT studies and the renogram were compared, the vascular phase of the renogram showed strong correlation with CA ratio. Consequently the dynamic CT study the CA ratio was believed to demonstrate the renal function.

[Effects of indomethacin on calcium release from cultured rat calvaria]

The bone-resorbing action of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in vitro has unknown mechanism of action. In order to evaluate the effect of LPS on rat calvaria and the influence of LPS on the bone-resorbing activity of macrophages, the following experiments were conducted. The addition of macrophages 10(6)/ml to a culture system composed of rat calvaria increased calcium release from the cultured bone. Addition of macrophages 10(6)/ml preincubated with 10(-2) mg/ml LPS caused a more pronounced release of calcium from the cultured bone. Combined use of Indomethacin, a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, with macrophages and macrophages preincubated with LPS inhibited calcium release, suggesting a possible participation of prostaglandins in osteoclast mediated bone resorption.

[Follow-up study on anti-HBs levels in vaccinees after two and three doses of HB vaccine. (2)]

An HB prophylaxis vaccination that included a primary and secondary vaccination was carried out on persons working at the university hospital. In the primary vaccination group, the subjects were inoculated the second time with a vaccine derived from human blood plasma obtained from the Kitazato Therapeutic Research Institute. The third time, they were inoculated with a vaccine from the Chemo-Sero Therapeutic Research Institute derived from a second-generation vaccine organized ferment. The vaccine used for the second inoculation group was obtained from the Chemo-Sero Therapeutic Research Institute. Results were summarized as follows: 1) The primary vaccination group: (1) The number of the 153 subjects inoculated with the primary vaccination at the time of the second inoculation, 49 subjects (32%) tested positive for antibodies 3-4 months following inoculation. Thirty-two subjects (20%) tested positive 15-16 months following inoculation with a high rate among females. (2) Among 104 subjects inoculated the third time with the primary vaccination (those who tested negative the second inoculation of the above vaccine), 61 subjects (58.7%) tested positive for antibodies 8-9 months following inoculation with a generally high rate among females. Twenty-eight subjects (26%) tested 15-16 months after inoculation with a high rate among females between 20 and 30 years and among males between 40 and years. 2) The secondary group: Among the 38 subjects who were inoculated the second time with the secondary vaccination, 8 subjects (21%) tested positive for antibodies 5-6 months following inoculation, with a high rate among females in their 20's. 3) The rate of antibodies formation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Plasma endothelin levels in hypertension and chronic renal failure

Endothelin-1 is a novel endothelium-derived vasoconstrictive peptide. Using a highly specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay for endothelin-1, plasma levels of immunoreactive endothelin-1 were measured in 32 research subjects with normal renal function (21 normal subjects and 11 patients with essential hypertension), 24 patients with nondialyzed chronic renal failure, and 51 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Although there was no significant difference in plasma immunoreactive endothelin-1 levels among the three groups, patients with essential hypertension had significantly higher plasma endothelin-1 levels than normal subjects (2.29 +/- 1.09 vs. 1.41 +/- 0.50 pg/ml, p less than 0.025). When nondialyzed and hemodialyzed patients were divided into hypertensive and normotensive groups, the nondialyzed hypertensive group (n = 17) had higher plasma endothelin-1 levels than the comparable normotensive group (n = 7) (3.08 +/- 3.43 vs. 0.73 +/- 0.34 pg/ml, p less than 0.05), and the hemodialyzed hypertensive group (n = 18) had higher plasma endothelin-1 levels than the comparable normotensive group (n = 33) (2.66 +/- 1.92 vs. 1.35 +/- 0.73 pg/ml, p less than 0.005). Plasma atrial natriuretic factor, arginine vasopressin, renin activity, and aldosterone concentration did not show significant differences between hypertensive and normotensive individuals or a correlation with plasma endothelin-1 levels. These data suggest that circulating endothelin-1 may be partly involved in the development or maintenance of hypertension in humans.

Identification of osteoblast-specific monoclonal antibodies

A series of four antibodies against rat osteoblasts have been produced using the hybridoma technique. After bone cells isolated from newborn rat calvariae by a sequential digestion procedure were cultured for 3 days, the cells were trypsinized and further maintained in rotation cultures overnight. Out of the cultured bone cells alkaline phosphatase-positive cells were sorted by flow cytometry and used as immunogens. The clones secreting the antibodies were selected on the basis of the abilities of these antibodies to bind to the bone cells but not to fibroblasts from neonatal rat head skins, in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clones of two hybridomas, designated AOB-1 and AOB-2, were used to characterize the antigenic determinant(s) in osteogenic cells. The antibody showed the reactivity with isolated alkaline phosphatase-positive cells, osteogenic tissue cells in newborn rat calvaria, and mandibula, but not with the cells in head skin, lung, kidney, liver, or stomach as determined by immunofluorescence study. Western blot analysis has identified the antigenic determinants possessing apparent molecular weights of 210,000, 110,000, 65,000, 58,000, 40,000, 36,000, 32,000, 28,000, 25,000, 17,000, and 15,000 of osteoblast-rich monolayer cultured cells. According to the cell surface detection with biotin-avidin protein blotting technique, these fractions appear to be present as components of the cell surface of the osteoblast.

Actions of a newly synthesized compound (711389-S) on various types of experimentally induced arrhythmias in mammalian species in situ

We examined effects of 711389-S, a new antiarrhythmic agent, on ouabain-induced arrhythmias in dogs and guinea-pigs, aconitine-induced arrhythmias in dogs and mice, adrenaline-induced arrhythmias in dogs under an anesthetized condition, and arrhythmias induced by coronary artery ligation and occlusion by a glass bead in dogs under conscious and un-restrained conditions. 711389-S (1-3 mg/kg, i.v.) decreased the number of ventricular extrasystoles induced by ouabain in dogs, and the doses of ouabain required to induce various types of arrhythmias were increased by pretreatment of guinea-pigs with intraduodenal application of 711389-S (5-10 mg/kg). In mice, 711389-S (3 mg/kg, i.v. or 10 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly prolonged the time to onset of arrhythmias induced by aconitine infusion. Atrial fibrillation induced by a topical application of aconitine on the atrium was blocked by 711389-S (1 mg/kg, i.v.) in dogs. 711389-S (1-3 mg/kg, i.v.) depressed arrhythmias induced by adrenaline and restored the sinus rhythm by significantly decreasing the number of ventricular ectopic beats induced by coronary ligation or occlusion in dogs. Oral administration of 711389-S (10-30 mg/kg) in dogs markedly depressed the ventricular ectopic beats induced by coronary ligation. The half decay time of 711389-S after a single bolus injection of 711389-S ranged from 60 to 80 min. Results indicate that 711389-S has similar antiarrhythmic effects to those of other Class I antiarrhythmic agents in situ, and they suggest that this compound might have potential usefulness as a new type of antiarrhythmic agent for clinical use.

Synthesis and antiarrhythmic activity of new 1-[1-[2-[3-(alkylamino)-2-hydroxypropoxy]phenyl]vinyl]-1 H-imidazoles and related compounds

Various 1-[1-[2-[3-(alkylamino)-2-hydroxypropoxy]phenyl]vinyl]-1 H-azoles were synthesized and investigated for beta-adrenoceptor-blocking and antiarrhythmic activities. Although no compounds showed more potent beta-blocking effects than propranolol in the isolated guinea pig right atria, many compounds exhibited significant antiarrhythmic effects against aconitine or ischemic arrhythmia in mice or dogs. 1-[2,5-Dichloro-6-[1-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-ethenyl] phenoxy]-3-[(1-methylethyl)amino]-2-propanol hydrochloride (48) (711389-S) was selected as a candidate for clinical evaluation in man, since its antiarrhythmic effects were superior to those of quinidine, disopyramide, or propranolol. Asymmetric synthesis of (R)-(+)- and (S)-(-)-48 is described, and it is proven that there is no stereospecificity in the antiarrhythmic effect of 48.