Application of fiberoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing combined with dye test in silent aspiration after stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the diagnostic value of fiberoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing (FEES) combined with dye test in patients with post-stroke dysphagia and silent aspiration. MethodsFrom December, 2021 to June, 2022, 50 stroke patients in the Rehabilitation Department of Xuzhou Central Hospital were selected. They were assessed with FEES and videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), and compared. ResultsThe detection rate of aspiration was higher with FEES than with VFSS (χ2 = 7.000, P < 0.05), and especially for liquid food (χ2 = 4.000, P < 0.05). There was a good consistency when consuming paste food (κ = 0.941, P < 0.001) and solid food (κ = 0.779, P < 0.001). There was a good consistency in the food residue site between two methods (κ = 0.818, P < 0.001), as well as for all the three food types (κ ≥ 0.862, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the scores of Penetration Aspiration Scale of three food types between two methods (Z < 0.667, P > 0.05). ConclusionFEES combined with dye test can be used for evaluating silent aspiration after stroke.

Atrial contractile function and fibrosis in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in sinus rhythm / Función contráctil auricular y fibrosis en pacientes con fibrilación auricular paroxística en ritmo sinusal

Abstract Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate atrial contractile function in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) in sinus rhythm using transthoracic echocardiography (EchoCG). Methods and results: Thirty-five patients with paroxysmal AF and arterial hypertension (mean age 62 ± 10 years, 43% male) in sinus rhythm were enrolled in the study. The control group was composed of comparable patients with arterial hypertension without heart rhythm disturbances. EchoCG was performed during sinus rhythm according to an extended protocol, which included the ejection fraction (EF) of the left atrium (LA) and tissue Doppler measurements. Myocardial fibrosis was assessed quantitatively by videodensitometry in intraventricular and intraatrial (IAS) septa using an original image post-processing algorithm. We found a significant decrease in the left atrial contraction function during sinus rhythm in patients with AF when compared to controls. LA EF (34 ± 14 vs. 54 ± 17, p = 0.03) and A' velocity (0.17 ± 0.04 vs. 0.22 ± 0.04, p = 0.008) decreased while A/A' ratio (2.7 ± 0.2 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, p = 0.006) increased. Peak A velocity was not affected. Videodensitometric analysis revealed a 2.3-fold increase in IAS fibrosis fraction in AF patients compared with controls (p = 0.01). Conclusion: Patients with AF in sinus rhythm have markedly depressed atrial contractile function. Videodensitometry of IAS has the potential to be used as inexpensive method of atrial fibrosis assessment in patients with AF.

Resumen Objetivo: El objetivo del estudio fue investigar la función contráctil auricular en pacientes con fibrilación auricular paroxística (FA) en ritmo sinusal mediante una ecocardiografía transtorácica (EchoCG). Material y métodos: Treinta y cinco pacientes con FA paroxística e hipertensión arterial (edad media de 62 ± 10 años, el 43% varones) se inscribieron en el estudio en ritmo sinusal. El grupo de control estaba compuesto por pacientes comparables con hipertensión arterial sin alteraciones del ritmo cardíaco. Se realizó una ecocardiografía durante el ritmo sinusal, según el protocolo extendido, incluidas la fracción de eyección (FE) de la aurícula izquierda (AI) y las mediciones Doppler tisulares. La fibrosis miocárdica se evaluó cuantitativamente mediante una videodensitometría de los septos interventricular e interauricular (IAS) utilizando un algoritmo de posprocesamiento de imágenes originales. Resultados: Encontramos una disminución significativa en la función de contracción de la aurícula izquierda durante el ritmo sinusal en pacientes con FA en comparación con el grupo de control. Cabe destacar que la FE de la AI (34 ± 14 vs. 54 ± 17, p = 0.03) y la velocidad A' disminuyeron (0.17 ± 0.04 vs. 0.22 ± 0.04, p = 0,008) mientras que la relación A/A' aumentó (2,7 ± 0,2 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1, p = 0,006). La velocidad pico A no se vio afectada. El análisis videodensitométrico reveló que la fracción de fibrosis IAS en pacientes con FA fue 2.3 veces mayor que en el grupo de control (p = 0.01). Conclusiones: Incluso en ritmo sinusal, los pacientes con FA tienen una función contráctil auricular marcadamente deprimida. La videodensitometría de IAS tiene el potencial de utilizarse como método económico de diagnóstico de la fibrosis auricular en pacientes con FA.

Role of mechanosensitive ion channel Piezol in mediating phenotypic changes of rat coronary arterial smooth muscle cells induced by high hydrostatic pressure / 中国药理学通报

Aim To investigate the mechanism of Pi- ezol in the phenotypic changes of rat coronary arterial smooth muscle cells ( CASMCs) induced by high hydrostatic pressure.Methods CASMCs were isolated from Wistar rats and stimulated for 24 h at 0, 120 and 180 mmHg, respectively.The expressions of Piezol , contractile phenotvpe-related proteins including Cavl.2 ,SM-MHC ,cx-SMA and synthetic phenotvpe-re- lated proteins including OPN , MMP-2, Coll al were detected by Western blot.The effect of calcium influx mediated by Piezol was detected by Laser confocal mi- j j croscopy.CASMCs were treated with Piezol agonist Yodal , inhibitor GsMTx4 and Piezol-siHNA , respectively and the expressions of contractile phenotvpe and synthetic phenotvpe-related proteins were detected by Western blot.Results Compared with control ( 0 mmHg) , the expressions of Piezol , OPN, MMP-2 and Collal increased, but the expressions of Cavl.2,SM- MHC and cx-SMA decreased in 120 mmHg as well as 180 mmHg group.After stimulated by 180 mmHg high pressure, Piezol-mediated calcium influx was stronger than that in 0 mmHg group, hut decreased after Piezol knockdown.Treated with Yodal at 0 mmHg, the expression of contractile phenotvpe-related protein decreased while the expression of synthetic phenotvpe-re- lated protein increased compared with DMSO group..\Jfter using GsMTx4 to inhibit or siRNA to knockdown Piezol at 180 mmHg,the expression of contractile phe- notvpe-related protein increased and the expression of synthetic phenotype-related protein decreased compared with the control group.Conclusion Piezol promotes the transition from contractile phenotvpe to syn-thetic phenotvpe of CASMCs induced by high hydrostatic pressure.

Effect of Mirabegron combined with Silodosin on detrusor hyperactivity with impaired contractile / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To observe the clinical effect of Mirabegron combined with Silodosin on detrusor hyperactivity with impaired contractile (DHIC).Methods From September, 2019 to December, 2021, 40 patients with DHIC in the Department of Urology of Beijing Bo'ai Hospital were selected and randomly divided into control group and experimental group, with 20 cases in each group. The control group took Silodosin only, and the experimental group took Mirabegron in addition, for four weeks. The urinary diary, residual urine volume, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) and quality of life (QOL) score were compared before and after treatment.Results A total of 18 patients in the control group and 19 in the experimental group finished the trial. After treatment, the number of night urination per day, the residual urine volume and QOL score improved in the control group (P<0.01); the number of urination per 24 hours, the number of night urination per day, the volume per urination, the residual urine volume, the daily urgency score, the OABSS score and QOL score improved in the experimental group (P<0.01). The number decrease of urination per 24 hours, the volume decrease of per urination, the daily urgency score decrease, the OABSS score decrease and QOL score decrease were more in the experimental group than in the control group (P<0.01). The adverse reactions included palpitations, increased heart rate, dyspareunia, increased blood pressure, gastric discomfort, postural hypotension, and retrograde ejaculation, and there was no significant difference between two groups (P > 0.05).Conclusion The efficacy of Mirabellone combined with Silodosin on DHIC is better than Silodosin only, and there was no significant increase in drug-related adverse effects.

Dinámica contráctil espontánea del músculo liso vascular de la arteria carótida externa / Spontaneous contractile dynamics of the vascular smooth muscle of the external carotid artery

Introducción: La carótida externa es una arteria muscular que irriga todos los componentes del sistema masticatorio, por lo que la regulación de la dinámica contráctil de su músculo liso vascular es imprescindible para garantizar el tono y el flujo sanguíneo tisular y modular la respuesta inflamatoria. Objetivo: Describir la dinámica contráctil espontánea del musculo liso vascular de la arteria carótida externa. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación experimental en el Instituto de Fisiología Oscar Langerdorff de la Facultad de Medicina, en la Universidad de Rostock, Alemania, de octubre a diciembre del 2018, en la cual se utilizaron 60 anillos de arterias carótidas externas obtenidas de 10 ratas Wistar adultas de ambos sexos. A dichos anillos se les practicó un corte helicoidal y fueron colocados en un baño de órganos, para registrarles, luego, la tensión espontánea desarrollada por el músculo liso vascular contra una carga de 1 gramo, durante diferentes intervalos de tiempo. Resultados: Los registros de la actividad contracción-relajación espontánea del músculo liso vascular de la arteria carótida externa fluctuaron dentro de un rango estrecho de cifras de tensión, con valores máximos de 8,48 ± 0,03 y mínimos de 8,33 ± 0,03, y una diferencia de 0,08 mN/g de músculo. Los valores promedios de tensión en cada intervalo de tiempo fueron muy cercanos, con desviaciones estándar que evidenciaron muy poca dispersión de los datos respecto a la media. La tensión promedio general registrada fue de 8,40 ± 0,032 mN/g. Conclusiones: La dinámica contráctil espontánea desarrollada por el músculo liso vascular de la arteria carótida externa mostró una progresión irregular en el tiempo, con valores promedios de tensión que oscilaron entre 5-10 mN/g de músculo.

Introduction: The external carotid is a muscle artery irrigating all components of the masticatory system, so that the regulation of the contractile dynamics of its vascular smooth muscle is important. Objective: To describe the spontaneous contractile dynamics of the vascular smooth muscle of the external carotid artery. Methods: An experimental investigation was carried out in the Oscar Langerdorff Physiology Institute from the Medicine Faculty at Rostock University, Germany, from October to December 2018, in which 60 rings of the external carotid artery obtained from 10 adult Wistar rats from both sexes. An helical cut was made to each ring and they were placed in an organ bath, to be registered, then, the spontaneous strain developed by the vascular smooth muscle against a charge of 1 g, during different time intervals was registered. Results: The records from the spontaneous contraction-relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle in the external carotid artery fluctuated within a narrow range of strain figures, with maximum values of 8.48 ± 0.03 and minimum of 8.33 ± 0.03, and a difference of 0.08 mN/g of muscle. Average strain values in each time interval were very closed, with standard deviations which evidenced a very small data dispersion regarding the mean. The average general registered strain was 8.40 ± 0.032 mN/g. Conclusions: The spontaneous contractile dynamics developed by the vascular smooth muscle of the external carotid artery showed an irregular progression in time, with average strain values fluctuating between 5-10 mN/g of muscle.

Effects of Quercetin on the Expression of Ang Ⅱ-induced Myocardial Contractile Protein of Rats through ACE 2- Ang-（1-7）-Mas Axis / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To in vestigate the effects of quercetin （Que）on the expressio n of angiotensin Ⅱ（AngⅡ）-induced myocardial contractile proteins of primary rats through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-angiotensin-（1-7）-Mas （ACE2-Ang- （1-7）-Mas）axis. METHODS ：Cardiac tissue of rats aged 1-2 d were collected ，and primary cardiomyocytes were isolated and cultured. The gene silencing model of cardiomyocytes ACE2 was constructed. Experiments were divided into 12 groups. Among them，AngⅡ group，AngⅡ+ small interference RNA （siRNA）group，and Ang Ⅱ+ A 779 group were the model groups ；AngⅡ+ losartan group was positive control group ；AngⅡ+Que40 group，AngⅡ+Que80 group，AngⅡ+siRNA+Que40 group，AngⅡ+ siRNA+Que80 group，AngⅡ+A779+Que40 group and Ang Ⅱ+A779+Que80 group were the experimental groups ；blank group and siRNA group were set up. Ang Ⅱ concentration was 1×10－6 mol/L；siRNA final concentration was 50 nmol/L；Que concentration was 40 and 80 μmol/L；A779（Mas receptor inhibitor ）concentration was 1 μmol/L；losartan concentration was 1×10－4 mol/L. mRNA and protein expression of ACE 2，Ang-（1-7） and Mas in primary cardiomyocytes were detected ；the expressions of myocardial contractile proteins were also determined ，such as Na +/Ca2+ exchange channel （NCX），calcium pump （SERCA2a）， phosphoprotein （PLB）. RESULTS ：Compared with Ang Ⅱ group，mRNA expression of Mas was increased significantly in Ang Ⅱ + Que 80 group （P＜0.05）；mRNA expression of ACE2 and Mas were increased significantly in Ang Ⅱ + CZ0210-01） losartan group （P＜0.05）. Compared with Ang Ⅱ group，the 851136165@qq.com protein expression of ACE 2 and Ang- （1-7） were increased significantly in Ang Ⅱ+ Que 40 group（P＜0.05）；compared with Ang Ⅱ + siRNA group ，the protein expression of Ang-（1-7）were increased significantly in Ang Ⅱ+ siRNA+Que 40 group（P＜0.05）；compared with Ang Ⅱ+A779 group，the protein expression of Ang- （1-7）were increased significantly in Ang Ⅱ+A779+ Que 40 group（P＜0.05）. Compared with Ang Ⅱ group，the protein expression of NCX was decreased in Ang Ⅱ+Que40 group（P＜0.05），protein expression of NCX was reduced in Ang Ⅱ+ losartan group （P＜0.05）；compared with Ang Ⅱ+A779 group，the protein expression of NCX was decreased in Ang Ⅱ+A779+ Que80 group （P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS ：Que improves the expression of Ang Ⅱ -induced ACE 2-Ang-（1-7）-Mas axis in cardiomyocyte model to some extent ，so as to regulate myocardial contractile protein.

Contractile Properties of Erector Spinae in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Based on Tensiomyography / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To analyze the contractile properties of the lumbar erector spinae in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP), and to explore their correlation with pain and dysfunction. Methods:From January to June, 2020, 24 patients with CNLBP in the outpatient and the ward of geriatric rehabilitation medicine department and 26 asymptomatic volunteers were included. Their contractile properties of the lumbar erector spinae were measured with tensiomyography, including maximum radial muscle displacement (Dm), contraction time (Tc), delay time (Td), sustain time (Ts), half-time relaxation (Tr) and lateral symmetry (LS). The contraction velocity (VC) was calculated. Potential associations of tensiomyography parameters to Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were assessed using correlation analysis. Results:No significant differences were found in Td, Ts, Tc, Tr and LS between two groups (P > 0.05). Dm and Vc were significantly lower in both sides of CNLBP group than in the control group (t > 2.058, P < 0.01). Dm or Vc were not correlated with VAS and ODI (P > 0.05). Conclusion:Erector spinae are stiff and fatiguable in patients with CNLBP, however, they are not associated with pain and dysfunction. Tensiomyography could be used for accurate diagnosis and treatment of CNLBP.

Fibras musculares cardíacas en las cúspides de la valva atrioventricular izquierda humana / Cardiac muscle fibers at the cusps of the human left atrioventricular valve

Las valvas cardíacas y especialmente la valva atrioventricular izquierda (VAVI) ha sido considerada por largo tiempo, como una estructura pasiva. Sin embargo, han surgido nuevas teorías que reconocen a esta estructura como una "valva viva", con un funcionamiento de mayor autonomía y dinámico. En esta línea, existen estudios en donde se ha concluido que la ausencia de tejidos contráctiles en una valva, generan ondulaciones no fisiológicas. Por el contrario, se ha señalado la presencia de tejido contráctil en la valva, lo que refleja una activación ondulante. Basado en lo anterior, el objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la presencia de fibras musculares cardíacas en las cúspides de la VAVI. Se utilizaron 12 cúspides, 6 anteriores y 6 posteriores, de 7 cadáveres adultos (4) y lactantes (3) de distintas edades, sin patologías cardíacas. Las muestras pertenecían a la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Estadual de Ciencias da Saúde de Alagoas, Maceió, Brasil. Estas muestras fueron tratadas con procesamiento histológico de rutina. Los hallazgos morfológicos a un aumento de 4x mostraron células musculares que fueron visibles principalmente por el lado atrial en la totalidad de las cúspides, tanto inmersas en el tejido conectivo denso del anillo fibroso como en el tejido conectivo laxo. Al verificar la naturaleza de las fibras con un aumento mayor (100x), se detectaron estrías transversales en todas las muestras estudiadas, lo cual afirma la presencia de fibras musculares estríadas cardíacas en la VAVI. Los resultados obtenidos aportan al conocimiento de la microestructura y tejido contráctil de las cúspides de la VAVI. Por lo tanto, resulta de gran relevancia seguir profundizando en los conocimientos morfológicos de la VAVI, para sentar una base sólida sobre la microestructura contráctil en los diferentes estadíos del ser humano.

Cardiac valves and particularly, the left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) have long been considered passive structures. Nonetheless, there are more recent hypothesis that recognize this structure as a "living valve", with greater autonomy and dynamic function. Along these lines, some studies have concluded that the absence of contractile tissues in a valve, generates non-physiological undulations. In contrast, the presence of contractile tissue in the valve has been reported, reflecting a waving activation. Based on the above, the objective of the present study was to determine the presence of cardiac muscle fibers in the cusps of the LAVV. 12 cusps, 6 anterior and 6 posterior. Therefore, 7 adult (4) and lactating (3) bodies of different ages without cardiac pathologies were used. The samples belonged to the Faculty of Medicine of the Universidade de Ciencias da Saude de Alagos, Maceió, Brazil. The samples were treated with routine histological processing. Morphological findings at an increase of 4x showed muscle cells that were visible mainly from the atrial side in all the cusps, both immersed in the dense connective tissue of the fibrous ring and in loose connective tissue. Transverse striations were detected in all samples studied, when verifying the nature of the fibers with greater increase (100x), confirming the presence of cardiac striated muscle fibers in the LAVV. The results obtained contribute to the knowledge of the microstructure and contractile tissue of the LAVV cusps. Therefore it is relevant to further morphological knowledge of this valve, in order to build a solid foundation on the contractile microstructure in the different stages of the human development.

A Structure Based Molecular Docking Of Acacia Catechu Againstcontractile Protein Plasmodium Falciparum – A Malarial Disease

The bioactive compounds of Acacia catechu using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy and the inhibitory activity against contractile protein Plasmodium falciparum against protozoan disease were studied. This research mainly focuses on finding of novel drug screening against malarial enzyme. The compounds of Acacia catechu are screened using Lipinski rule of five with ADMET properties in which the character as well as behaviour of the drug compound is known. The compounds were checked for its dosage level in human and rat as well as distribution properties in blood brain barrier and central neuro system. The compounds 9,12,15- Octadecatrienoic acid has higher affinity with -7.95 Kcal/mol followed by Pthalic acid, butyl 2- pentyl ester -7.35 Kcal/mol and Furo[2,3-d] Pyrimidine-4,6 [5H,7H]-dion -6.24 Kcal/mol were docked using Autodock software. the compound 9,12,15- Octadecatrienoic acid, Pthalic acid butyl 2- pentyl ester, Furo[2,3-d] Pyrimidine-4,6 [5H,7H]-dion has higher affinity such as -7.95 Kcal/mol , -7.35 Kcal/mol and -6.24 Kcal/mol respectively. Thus this research proves that the drug compounds of Acacia catechu have novel therapeutic drug activity against virulent enzymes.

Real-time measurement of cell contractile force during activation of human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 / 生物医学工程学杂志

The contractile force of hepatic stellate cells plays a very important role in liver damage, hepatitis and fibrosis. In this paper, a method based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) thin micropillar arrays is proposed to measure the contractile force of human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2, which enables dynamic measurement of the subcellular distribution of force magnitude and direction. First, thin micropillar arrays on glass bottom dish were fabricated using two-step casting process in order to meet the working distance requirement of 100× objective lens. After hydrophilic treatment and protein imprint, cells were seeded on the micropillar arrays. LX-2 cells, which were quiesced by growth in serum-free medium, were activated by adding fetal bovine serum (FBS). The deflections of the micropillars were achieved by image processing technique, and then the contractile force of cells exerted on the micropillars was calculated according to mechanical simulation results, and was analyzed under both quiescent and activated conditions. The experimental results show that the average traction force of quiescent cells is about 20 nN, while the contractile force of activated cells increased to 110 nN upon adding FBS. This method can quantify the contractile force of LX-2 cell on subcellular scale in both quiescent and activated states, which may benefit pathology study and drug screen for chronic liver diseases resulted from liver fibrosis.

Left atrial size and contractile function in healthy dogs and dogs with chronic mitral valve disease / Tamanho e função sistólica atrial esquerda em cães sadios e com doença valvar crônica de mitral

In humans, left atrial enlargement and reduced contractile functions are associated with adverse cardiovascular events and a poor prognosis in many dilatation of the left atrium occurs with the gradual evolution of chronic mitral valve disease and is well diseases. The left atrium is the most compromised cardiac chamber in dogs with chronic mitral valve disease (CMVD). Therefore, this study aimed to compare the main parameters of left atrial enlargement (left atrium/aorta ratio, left atrial diameter and volume indices) and contractile function (transmitral flow peak velocity A wave and time velocity integral, atrial fraction, and atrial ejection force) at different stages of valve disease, and correlate the left atrial diameter, volume, and contractile function indices with echocardiographic variables predictive of heart failure in dogs (transmitral flow peak velocity E wave, E wave/IVRT ratio, E wave/E´wave ratio, and E wave/A wave ratio). The results showed that progressive characterized by the left atrium/aorta ratio and left atrium volume index. The left atrial diameter and volume indices and left atrium/aorta ratio correlated positively with the transmitral flow peak velocity E wave and E wave/IVRT ratio, which are important indices of diastolic function. The left atrial contractile function indices increased as CMVD evolved. Except for the atrial fraction, the left atrial contractile function indices correlated with the left ventricular filling pressure indices.(AU)

O tamanho e a função atrial esquerda estão relacionados em humanos com eventos cardiovasculares adversos e prognóstico nas principais cardiopatias. Na doença valvar crônica de mitral (DVCM) em cães, o átrio esquerdo é a câmara cardíaca mais comprometida. Portanto, os objetivos deste estudo foram comparar os principais parâmetros de aumento atrial esquerdo (relação átrio esquerdo/aorta, índice do diâmetro atrial esquerdo e índice do volume atrial esquerdo) e função contrátil de átrio esquerdo (velocidade máxima e integral de velocidade da onda A do fluxo transvalvar mitral, fração atrial e força de ejeção atrial) nos diferentes estágios da doença valvar; correlacionar diâmetro e volume atrial esquerdo e os índices de função contrátil atrial esquerda com as variáveis ecocardiográficas preditivas de insuficiência cardíaca em cães (velocidade máxima da onda E do fluxo transvalvar mitral, relação E/TRIV, relação E/E'par e relação E/A). Os resultados mostraram que com a evolução progressiva da doença valvar crônica de mitral, ocorre dilatação progressiva do átrio esquerdo, bem caracterizada pela relação átrio esquerdo/aorta e pelo índice de volume atrial esquerdo. O índice do diâmetro atrial esquerdo, o índice de volume atrial esquerdo e a relação átrio esquerdo/aorta correlacionam-se, positivamente, com a velocidade da onda E e com a relação E/TRIV, que são importantes índices de função diastólica. Os índices de função contrátil do átrio esquerdo aumentam à medida que a DVCM evolui. Os índices de função contrátil do átrio esquerdo apresentam correlação positiva com os índices de pressão de enchimento ventricular esquerdo, exceção feita à fração atrial.(AU)

Value of mitral annular plane systolic excursion in the assessment of contractile reserve in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy before cardiac revascularization

Background Mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) is an M-mode derived echocardiographic marker of left ventricular longitudinal function, the aim of this study is to evaluate the value of MAPSE in assessment of contractile reserve in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy before cardiac revascularization. Methods The study included 50 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy with ejection fraction (EF) ≤35%, the patients presented to echocardiography laboratory for dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) to assess viability and contractile reserve before revascularization, patients with primary valvular disease, and those with significant mitral annular calcifications were excluded from the study. A low dose DSE was done to all patients using standardized incremental infusions of 5, 10, and 20 μg/kg/min and the following parameters were measured at both baseline and peak dose, (EF, wall motion score index(WMSI) and MAPSE). Contractile reserve was measured as the difference between the low dose and baseline values of the EF and WMSI. Results The study included 50 patients aged 55.08 ± 7.15 years, 94% were males, the DSE protocol was complete in all patients without serious side effects. A total of eight hundred segments were analyzed, at baseline 65% were dysfunctional including 31.2% hypokinetic, 28.8% were akinetic, and 5% were dyskinetic. At low dose study 70% of the dysfunctional myocardium showed viability, EF increased significantly from 30.84 ± 4.56 to 42.24 ± 8.15%, p < 0.001, the WMSI reduced significantly from 1.92 ± 0.33 to 1.47 ± 0.39, and MAPSE increased significantly from 1.02 ± 0.23 to 1.30 ± 0.30 mm. MAPSE showed a significant positive correlation with EF at both baseline and low dose study (r = 0.283, p = 0.046 & r = 0.348, p = 0.013) respectively and a significant negative correlation with WMSI at both baseline and low dose study (r = −0.3, p = 0.034 & r = −0.409, p = 0.003), respectively. By ROC curve analysis we found that Δ MAPSE ≥2 mm can predict contractile reserve at Δ EF >10% (AUC = 0.6, sensitivity 67.86, specificity 59.09), and Δ MAPSE ≥1.8 mm can predict contractile reserve at ΔWMSI ≤0.20 (AUC = 0.61, sensitivity 65.5, specificity 75.6). Conclusions MAPSE is a rapid simple quantitative echocardiographic method that can asses contractile reserve in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy before cardiac revascularization.

Crotonaldehyde inhibits myocardial contractile function in mice / 基础医学与临床

Objective To study the effect of an essential α,β-unsaturated aldehyde from cigarette smoke crotonal-dehyde on myocardial contractile function and intracellular Ca2+function in mice. Methods Hearts of from male C57BL/6 mice were digested by Langendorff to islate the cardiomyocytes. The cardiomyocytes of mice were then in-cubated with crotonaldehyde(1,10,25 and 50 μmol/L) for 6 h,and the control group was treated without croton-aldehyde,then they were evaluated including peak shortening(PS),maximal velocity of shortening/relengthening (±dL/dt),time-to-PS(TPS),time-to-90% relengthening(TR90),fura-2 fluorescence intensity(FFI),intracel-lular Ca2+decay and SERCA 45Ca2+uptake and the expression of Na+-Ca2+exchange were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Results Compared with the control group, the higher concentrations of the crotonaldehyde(25 and 50 μmol/L) groups significantly diminished the PS, ±dL/dt,ΔFFI,SERCA activity and Ca2+decay (P<0.05), as well as prolonged the TR90(P<0.05);however the crotonaldehyde with different concentrations had no effect on the expression of Na+-Ca2+exchange in cardiomyocytes. Conclusions Crotonaldehyde may inhibit cardiomyocyte contraction by suppressing SERCA activity and compromising intracellular Ca2+handling.

Role of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor in the skeletal muscle contractile dysfunction of type 2 diabetic rats / 中国医师杂志

Objective To investigate the role of endogenous nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in the contractile dysfunction of skeletal muscle in diabetic rats and on which the therapeutic effects of L-Arginine.Methods Type 2 diabetic rats were induced by high fat diet and a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ,30 mg/kg),followed by high fat diet for 8 weeks.Specific twicth tension and specific tetanic tension of soleus (SOL) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) isolated from control and diabetic rats were detected by electric stimulation to reflect contractile function of skeletal muscle.ADMA content of skeletal muscle was analyzed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA),and activities of dimethylarginie dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH) and NOS,NO content were measured by colorimetry.The protein expression of ADMA synthetase protein arginine methyl transferase 1 (PRMT1) and ADMA hydrolase DDAH and NOS were determined detected by Western blotting.Oral glucose tolerance test and protein expressions of phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1 (p-IRS-1) and protein kinase B (p-Akt) as well as the membrane transportation of glucose transporter 4 (Glut4) were measured to reflect insulin resistance.Results In comparison with control rats,specific twicth tension and tetanic tension of SOL and EDL in diabetic rats were significantly decreased (P ＜ 0.01),indicating the contractile dysfunction.Increased ADMA content (P ＜ 0.05),decreased DDAH and NOS activities as well as NO content (P ＜ 0.01) in comparison with up-regulated protein expression of PRMT1 and down-regulated protein expression of DDAH,endothelial NOS (eNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS) (P ＜ 0.05) were observed in the skeletal muscle of diabetic rats compared to control rats,indicating that the pathway of PRMT1/ADMA/DDAH/ NOS/NO was disordered in the skeletal muscle of diabetic rats.Furthermore,the glucose tolerance,both IRS-1 and Akt protein phosphorylation as well as the membrane translocation of Glut4 were decreased (P ＜ 0.05),indicating the insulin resistance in diabetic rats.Treatment with L-Arginine for 8 weeks not only significantly improved the contractile dysfunction but also reversed the disorder of ADMA signaling pathway and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle of diabetic rats compared to untreated diabetic rats.Conclusions The accumulation of endogenous NOS inhibitor ADMA contributes to the contractile dysfunction of skeletal muscle in diabetic rats,the underlying mechanism may be related to insulin resistance.

Ameliorative effects of atractylodin on intestinal inflammation and co-occurring dysmotility in both constipation and diarrhea prominent rats

Intestinal disorders often co-occur with inflammation and dysmotility. However, drugs which simultaneously improve intestinal inflammation and co-occurring dysmotility are rarely reported. Atractylodin, a widely used herbal medicine, is used to treat digestive disorders. The present study was designed to characterize the effects of atractylodin on amelioration of both jejunal inflammation and the co-occurring dysmotility in both constipation-prominent (CP) and diarrhea-prominent (DP) rats. The results indicated that atractylodin reduced proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the plasma and inhibited the expression of inflammatory mediators iNOS and NF-kappa B in jejunal segments in both CP and DP rats. The results indicated that atractylodin exerted stimulatory effects and inhibitory effects on the contractility of jejunal segments isolated from CP and DP rats respectively, showing a contractile-state-dependent regulation. Atractylodin-induced contractile-state-dependent regulation was also observed by using rat jejunal segments in low and high contractile states respectively (5 pairs of low/high contractile states). Atractylodin up-regulated the decreased phosphorylation of 20 kDa myosin light chain, protein contents of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), and MLCK mRNA expression in jejunal segments of CP rats and down-regulated those increased parameters in DP rats. Taken together, atractylodin alleviated rat jejunal inflammation and exerted contractile-state-dependent regulation on the contractility of jejunal segments isolated from CP and DP rats respectively, suggesting the potential clinical implication for ameliorating intestinal inflammation and co-occurring dysmotility.

Dictyostelium discoideum RabS and Rab2 colocalize with the Golgi and contractile vacuole system and regulate osmoregulation.

Small-molecular-weight GTPase Rab2 has been shown to be a resident of pre-Golgi intermediates and is required for protein transport from the ER to the Golgi complex; however, Rab2 has yet to be characterized in Dictyostelium discoideum. DdRabS is a Dictyostelium Rab that is 80% homologous to DdRab1 which is required for protein transport between the ER and Golgi. Expression of GFP-tagged DdRab2 and DdRabS proteins showed localization to Golgi membranes and to the contractile vacuole system (CV) in Dictyostelium. Microscopic imaging indicates that the DdRab2 and DdRabS proteins localize at, and are essential for, the proper structure of Golgi membranes and the CV system. Dominant negative (DN) forms show fractionation of Golgi membranes, supporting their role in the structure and function of it. DdRab2 and DdRabS proteins, and their dominant negative and constitutively active (CA) forms, affect osmoregulation of the cells, possibly by the influx and discharge of fluids, which suggests a role in the function of the CV system. This is the first evidence of GTPases being localized to both Golgi membranes and the CV system in Dictyostelium.

Changes of aortic contractile reactivity and RAS components after tourni-quet shock / 中国病理生理杂志

AIM: To investigate the role of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) disequilibrium in hyporeactivity and injury of aorta after tourniquet shock ( TS) by observing the changes of aortic contractile reactivity and RAS components after TS.METHODS:Male C57BL/6 mice (8 months old) were divided into 7 groups including control group and 6 mod-el groups.The mice in model groups were sacrificed at reperfusion of 10 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, 6 h and 12 h.The mice in control group were not subjected to tourniquet ligation .The Doppler flowmetry was used to determine the limb blood flow . The carotid artery catheter was applied to detect the blood pressure .The isolated vascular tension tester was available to measure the reactivity of the aorta .HE staining combined with transmission electron microscopy was used to evaluate the morphology of injured aortas .The protein expression of AT 1 receptor , Mas receptor , ACE and ACE2 was measured by Western blot.The serum contents of Ang Ⅱand Ang (1-7) were detected by ELISA.RESULTS:Compared with control group, the blood flow in model groups decreased gradually with the prolongation of reperfusion time .The blood pressure in-creased at 10 min after reperfusion, and then decreased gradually.Accordingly, vascular reaction to norepinephrine (NE) in-creased at 10 min and then descended .The vascular reactivity reached the lowest level at 4 h.Morphological injury score in-creased gradually .Vascular AT1 receptor and ACE2 proteins were reduced , while Mas receptor and ACE proteins were up-regulated compared with control group .The content of AngⅡin the serum elevated, while the content of Ang (1-7) was re-duced.CONCLUSION:The mechanism of aortic reaction to NE increased temporarily in the early stage of shock and then decreased .It may be related to the morphological injury of aorta and the imbalance of RAS .

The characteristics of esophagogastric junction contractile index in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease or functional heartburn / 中华内科杂志

Objective To study the role of esophagogastric junction contractile index (EGJ-CI) in evaluating the function of anti-reflux barrier,and in differentiating patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) from those with functional heartburn (FH).Methods A total of 115 patients presenting heartburn were enrolled in the study from January 2012 to June 2015.All subjects had completed Gerd-Q questionnaire and undergone gastroscopy,24-hour pH-impedance monitoring and esophageal high-resolution manometry.GERD patients were divided into as reflux esophagitis,acid-nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) and weakly acid-NERD groups.Patients with normal esophageal mucosa,normal acid exposure and negative proton pump inhibitor test were enrolled in FH group.EGJ-CI (mmHg · cm) as well as EGJ rest pressure and 4s integrated relaxation pressure (IRP 4s) were measured.Results Among the 115 patients,18 were reflux esophagitis [(49.0 ± 18.9) years,M ∶ F =10 ∶ 8],25 were acid-NERD [(48.7 ± 14.4) years,M∶F=13∶ 12],37 were weakly acid-NERD [(52.0 ±14.8) years,M∶F=15∶22] and 35 were FH [(53.6 ± 14.8),M∶ F =8∶27].No differences of Gerd-Q scores were noticed between the four groups.(1) Negative correlations were demonstrated between EGJ-CI and esophageal acid exposure time (r =-0.283,P =0.002),EGJ-CI and acid reflux events (r =-0.233,P =0.012),EGJ-CI and weakly acid reflux events (r =-0.213,P =0.022),EGJ-CI and non-acid reflux events (r =-0.200,P =0.032).(2)The value of EGJ-CI was significantly higher in FH patients than in the three subgroups of GERD(all P ＜ 0.01).EGJ rest pressure of FH group was higher than that of acid-NERD (P ＜ 0.01).IRP 4s in acid-NERD group was lower than that of FH and weakly acid-NERD (P ＜ 0.05).(3) The area under curve (AUC) of EGJ-CI was higher than that of EGJ-CIT,EGJ rest pressure or IRP 4s (0.686 vs 0.678,0.641 and 0.578).The cut-off value of EGJ-CI to differentiate GERD from FH was 9.74 mmHg · cm with sensitivity 82.86％ and specificity 51.52％.Conclusions The EGJ-CI values are negatively correlated with esophageal acid exposure time,weakly acid reflux events and non-acid reflux events.Thus it might be used as a metric to reflect the anti-reflux function of EGJ.According to the cut-off value of EGJ-CI 9.74 mmHg · cm,patients with GERD can be sensitively differentiated from patients with FH.

Endogenous nitric oxide synthase inhibitor increase skeletal muscle con-tractility and mitochondria biosynthesis in 4-week running rats / 中国病理生理杂志

[ ABSTRACT] AIM:To observe the effect of endogenous nitric oxide synthase ( NOS) inhibitor asymmetric dimeth-ylarginine ( ADMA ) and its signaling pathways on NO levels and skeletal muscle contractility in 4-week running rats. METHODS:The 4 weeks running rat model was established.The twitch tension, tetanic tension and the fatigue test of sole-us muscle induced by electrical stimulation ex vivo were detected.The ATP content, mitochondrial DNA levels and the mR-NA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γcoactivator-1α(PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor (NRF) were measured to reflect the mitochondrial function and biosynthesis in the skeletal muscle.Serum ADMA concentration was detected by high performance liquid chromatography.The endogenous ADMA enzymes PRMT1 and 2 subtypes of ADMA me-tabolism enzyme DDAH, 3 subtypes of NOS protein expression in the skeletal muscle were determined by Western blot.NOS activity and nitric oxide ( NO) content were analyzed by colorimetric method.RESULTS: Compared with normal control group, the twitch tension, tetanic tension and the anti-fatigue capability of soleus muscle in running group were significantly enhanced, ATP content, mitochondrial DNA content and the mRNA expression of PGC-1αand NRF were significantly in-creased (P ance of soleus muscle.The mechanism may be that increased cNOS expression feedbacks to increase ADMA concentration, thus maintaining the increase in NO synthesis at a relatively low level, and resulting in promoting skeletal muscle mitochon-dria biosynthesis and mitochondrial function.

Cambios reversibles de alteraciones basales de la contractilidad parietal del ventrículo izquierdo con drogas antiisquémicas: Estudio ecocardiográfico / Reversible changes in left ventricular resting wall-motion contractile abnormalities with anti-ischemic drugs: An echocardiographic study

Objetivos: determinar la utilidad clínica de la detección ecocardiográfica de alteraciones parietales basales de la contractilidad (ABC) reversibles con drogas antiisquémicas en pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica (CI) estable sospechada o conocida. Antecedentes: no hay referencias en la literatura al respecto. Población y método: estudio prospectivo observacional de la práctica clínica corriente en 93 pacientes ambulatorios, consecutivos (52,7% hombres, mediana 69,7 años), con indicación de ecoestrés mostrando ABC no cicatrizales. En su lugar se aplicó un protocolo con nitritos y metoprolol. Se consignaron los cambios del score segmentario (SS), del ángor y del electrocardiograma (ECG). Los pacientes fueron derivados directamente a cateterismo (n=9), internación (n=34) o domicilio (n=50). Se realizó un seguimiento a largo plazo (3,25 años-personas). Resultados: los cambios del SS, ángor y ECG fueron significativos (p < 0,001). La mortalidad global fue 6,34 p-mes-1 x 1000, con tratamiento médico versus invasivo: 8,59 vs 3,8 p-mes-1 x 1000, cateterismo directo vs internados con cateterismo diferido: 3,93 vs 7,22 p-mes-1 x 1000, internados sin cateterismo: 18,62 p-mes-1 x 1000 y domiciliarios con y sin cateterismo: 4,03 vs 4,05 p-mes-1 x 1000, respectivamente. Los pacientes con cateterismo presentaron lesiones severas mayormente de múltiples vasos. Conclusiones: la detección ecocardiográfica de ABC reversibles con drogas antiisquémicas en pacientes con CI evoca la presencia de isquemia miocárdica de reposo en una población de alto riesgo y tiene un importante valor pronóstico.

Objectives: to determine the clinical usefulness in detecting reversible resting echocardiographic segmental wall motion contractile abnormalities (ABC) in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CI). Background: There are no references in the literature. Population and method: This is a current clinical practice prospective observational study on 93 consecutive patients (58% men, median 69,7 years) with stress echocardiograms requested and showing non scarring ABC who were submitted to echocardiograms with nitrates and metoprolol instead. Left ventricular segmental wall motion score index (SS), electrocardiographic abnormalities (ECG) and chest pain changes were determined. Patients were referred either to direct catheterization (n=9), hospitalization (n=34) or to their residences (n=50). A 3,25-years-persons follow-up was performed. Results: SS, ECG abnormalities and chest pain changed significantly (p<0,001). The higher SS, the higher mortality. Global mortality was 6,34 p-mes-1 x 1000; patients with medical vs. invasive treatment: 8,59 vs 3,8 p-mes-1 x 1000, with direct catheterization vs. those hospitalized with deferred catheterization: 3,93 vs 7,22 p-mes-1 x 1000, patients hospitalized without catheterization: 18,62 p-mes-1 x 1000, and domiciliary patients with and without catheterization: 4,03 vs 4,05 p-mes-1 x 1000. Patients with catheterization showed severe multi-vessel disease mainly. Conclusions: Reversible echocardiographic ABC with anti-ischemic drugs evokes resting myocardial ischemia, a high risk CI population and has important prognostic value.