Estandarización de un procedimiento espectrofotométrico para la cuantificación de polisacárido capsular de Neisseria meningitidis serogrupo X / Standardization of a spectrophotometric procedure for the quantification of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup X capsular polysaccharide

En el presente trabajo se realiza la estandarización del procedimiento espectrofotométrico de determinación de polisacárido capsular e intermedios de Neisseria meningitidis serogrupo X, mediante la determinación de los grupos fosfodiéster presentes en su estructura, por el método de Chen. Se realizó un análisis de los siguientes criterios para la estandarización: linealidad, precisión (repetibilidad y precisión intermedia) y exactitud. Se demostró mediante el diseño experimental y los procedimientos estadísticos empleados que el método es lineal (r > 0,99), el coeficiente de variación del factor respuesta < 5 por ciento, la desviación estándar relativa de la pendiente < 2 por ciento, no existiendo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre el intercepto de la ecuación con respecto a cero; exacto, porque no existe diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre la concentración determinada en un material de trabajo y su concentración nominal; también demostró ser repetible, pues el coeficiente de variación de las concentraciones de la muestra evaluada (2,44; 2,43; 0,88 por ciento para las concentraciones bajas, medias y altas, respectivamente) es inferior al 3 por ciento y no existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las medias de los resultados obtenidos por dos analistas, evaluados durante cuatro días a tres niveles de concentración. La precisión intermedia es satisfactoria(AU)

The present work comprises the standardization a spectrophotometric procedure for assessing Neisseria meningitidis, serogroup X capsular polysaccharide and their intermediates of modification, the phosphodiesters groups present in its structure, based on Chen method. An analysis of the following standardization criteria was performed: linearity, precision (repeatability and intermediate precision) and accuracy. It was demonstrated through the experimental design and the statistical procedures used that the method is linear (r > 0.99), the coefficient of variation of the response factor < 5 percent, the relative standard deviation of the slope < 2 percent, with no statistically significant difference between the intercept of the equation with respect to zero; exact, because there is no statistically significant difference between the concentration determined in a work material and its nominal concentration; it also proved to be repeatable, because the coefficient of variation of the concentrations of the sample (2.44; 2.43; 0.88 percent for low, medium and high concentrations respectively) is less than 3 percent and there is no statistically significant difference between the means of the results obtained by two analysts, evaluated for four days at three concentration levels. Its intermediate precision was satisfactory(AU)

Mixoma auricular izquierdo gigante que causa obstrucción valvular mitral, hipertensión pulmonar y tromboembolia pulmonar / Giant atrial myxoma causing mitral valve obstruction, pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary thromboembolism

Resumen: Los tumores cardíacos pueden ser primarios o, más frecuentemente secundarios o metastásicos. Entre los tumores primarios es más frecuente el mixoma, cuya ubicación más común es en la aurícula izquierda. Las manifestaciones clínicas son diversas, producidas principalmente por obstrucción mecánica, embolizaciones, y manifestaciones constitucionales. Se comunica el caso de un paciente de 32 años, con cuadro clínico de insuficiencia cardíaca, hipertensión pulmonar severa y tromboembolismo pulmonar bilateral. Se hizo el diagnóstico de mixoma auricular izquierdo. Se resecó el tumor y se manejó la hipertensión pulmonar desde el ingreso al hospital con inhibidores de la fosfodiesterasa asociado a anticoagulación. Se discute el tema dando énfasis a aspectos fisiopatológicos involucrados tanto en la hipertensión pulmonar como en la presencia de tromboembolia pulmonar.

Abstract: Cardiac tumors may be primary or, more frequently secondary or associated to metastasis. Atril myxoma es the most frequent primary tumor, usually located in the left atrium. Clinical manifestations include those due to mitral valve occlusión, emboli and general non spedific symptoms and signs. Herein we report the clinical case of a 32 year old patient with severe pulmonary hypertension and bilateral pulmonary embolism. The tumor was extirpated, and he received phosphoro-diesterase inhiborts and anticoagulants. Subsequent clinical course was satisfactory. A brief discussion of this condicion is included.

Positive inotropic effect of phosphodiesterase type 9 inhibitor PF-04449613 in rats and its underlying mechanism / 生理学报

This study aimed to explore the positive inotropic effect of phosphodiesterase type 9 (PDE9) inhibitor PF-04449613 in ratsand its cellular and molecular mechanisms. The heart pressure-volume loop (P-V loop) analysis was used to detect the effects of PF-04449613 on rat left ventricular pressure-volume relationship, aortic pressures and peripheral vessel resistance in healthy rats. The Langendorff perfusion of isolated rat heart was used to explore the effects of PF-04449613 on heart contractility. The cardiomyocyte sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca

Prevalencia y factores asociados al deseo sexual hipoactivo en hombres del Quindío / Prevalence and Factors Associated with Hypoactive Sexual Desire in Quindío Men

Introducción El deseo sexual hipoactivo describe el bajo interés hacia la actividad sexual en general, caracterizando la escasa o nula motivación para tener relaciones eróticas, con disminución o ausencia de pensamientos o fantasías sexuales. Objetivo Evaluar la prevalencia y factores asociados, al deseo sexual hipoactivo en hombres del Quindío, así como estimar las demás disfunciones sexuales. Métodos Estudio observacional. La población estuvo constituida por 171 hombres que asistieron a consulta externa en una clínica universitaria de la ciudad de Armenia, Colombia, en el 2019. Se excluyeron los hombres menores de 18 años, residentes fuera del Quindío, situación psicopatológica o social que dificultara la comprensión del instrumento y los que no consintieron participar en el estudio. Se aplicó como instrumento el "Massachusetts General Hospital-Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (MGH-SFQ)". Se evaluaron las características socio-demográficas, estilos de vida, salud sexual y reproductiva, antecedentes y comportamiento sexual. Se hizo análisis descriptivo. Resultados La edad promedio fue de 41,79 ± 11,46 años (rango 18­81). La prevalencia de disfunciones sexuales en el grupo estudiado fue de 21,63%. La puntuación del MGH-SFQ fue de 14,61 ± 4,23 puntos (variación: 7,26 - 19,26). Se presentaron dificultades con el interés sexual (15,78%), excitación sexual (6,43%), orgasmo (8,77%), erección (21,63%) y satisfacción sexual global (12,28%). La mediana de disfunciones sexuales por hombre fue de 2, que se hizo presente en el 27,48% %. El análisis multivariado (regresión logística) mostró que los factores asociados al deseo sexual hipoactivo fueron testosterona baja (OR: 5,59; IC95% 1,82­18,37), ansiedad / depresión (OR: 5,53; IC95% 1,72­18,43), convivencia en pareja mayor a 10 años (OR: 5,19; IC95%: 2,71­11,71), ansiedad de desempeño (OR: 4,62; IC95% 1,95­10,56), incremento de la edad (OR: 3,42; IC95%: 1,26­9,36), cansancio / estrés (OR: 2,58; IC95%: 1,08­3,28), trastornos del sueño (OR: 1,89; IC95%: 1,35­2,58), conflictos de pareja (OR: 1,53; IC95%: 1,02­2,37) y antecedente de disfunciones sexuales (OR: 1,47; IC95%: 0,99­2,22); mientras que, el uso de juguetes sexuales (OR: 0,78; IC95%: 0,72­0,96; p = 0,021), consumo de vitamina D (2000 UI / diarias) (OR: 0,64; IC95%: 0,42­0,96) o de Inhibidores de fosfodiesterasa-5 (OR: 0,78; IC95%: 0,63­0,93) constituyeron factores protectores. Conclusiones En el presente estudio, el 21,63% de los hombres presentaron disfunciones sexuales. Los trastornos de la erección (21,63%) y el interés sexual (15,78%), fueron los más afectados. La testosterona baja, ansiedad / depresión y convivencia en pareja mayor a 10 años, encabezan los principales factores asociados al deseo sexual hipoactivo. El hacer actividades juntos (OR: 0,44; IC95%: 0,34­0,68), el respeto a ser personas diferentes (OR: 0,53; IC95%: 0,41­0,71), mantener la armonía en la pareja (OR: 0,61; IC95%: 0,47­0,79) y la expresión de sentimientos a la pareja (OR: 0,68; IC95%: 0,46­0,95) constituyen una línea de protección para mejorar las estrategias de prevención de los trastornos sexuales en esa población

Introduction Hypoactive sexual desire describes the low interest in sexual activity in general, characterizing the little or no motivation to have erotic relationships, with a decrease or absence of sexual thoughts or fantasies. Objective To determine the sexual dysfunctions and to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors, to the hypoactive sexual desire in men of Quindío. Methods Observational study. The population consisted of 171 men who attended an outpatient clinic at a university clinic in the city of Armenia, Colombia, in 2019. Men under 18 years of age, residents outside of Quindío, psychopathological or social situation that made understanding difficult, were excluded of the instrument and those who did not consent to participate in the study. The "Massachusetts General Hospital-Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (MGH-SFQ)" was applied as an instrument. Socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, sexual and reproductive health, background and sexual behavior were evaluated. Descriptive analysis was done. Results The average age was 41.79 ± 11.46 years (variation: - 81). The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in the study group was 21.63%. The MGH-SFQ score was 14.61 ± 4.23 points (range between 7.26 - 19.26). There were difficulties with sexual interest (15.78%), sexual arousal (6.43%), orgasm (8.77%), erection (21.63%) and overall sexual satisfaction (12.28%). The median sexual dysfunction per man was 2, which was present in 27.48%%. The multivariate analysis (logistic regression) showed that the factors associated with hypoactive sexual desire were low testosterone (OR: 5.59; 95% CI 1.82­18.37), anxiety / depression (OR: 5.53 ; 95% CI 1.72­18.43), cohabitation in a couple older than 10 years (OR: 5.19; 95% CI: 2.71­11.71), performance anxiety (OR: 4.62; 95% CI 1.95­10.56), increase in age (OR: 3.42; 95% CI: 1.26­9.36), fatigue / stress (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.08­3, 28), sleep disorders (OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.35­2.58), couple conflicts (OR: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.02­2.37) and a history of sexual dysfunctions (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 0.99­2.22); while, the use of sex toys (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.72­0.96; p = 0.021), vitamin D consumption (2000 IU / daily) (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.42­0.96) or of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.63­0.93) constituted protective factors. Conclusions In the present study, 21.63% of men had sexual dysfunction. Disorders of erection (21.63%) and sexual interest (15.78%) were the most affected. Low testosterone, anxiety / depression and coexistence in a couple older than 10 years, lead the main factors associated with hypoactive sexual desire. Low testosterone, anxiety / depression and coexistence in couples older than 10 years, are the main factors associated with hypoactive sexual desire. Doing activities together (OR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.34­0.68), respect for being different people (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.41­0.71), maintaining harmony in the couple (OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.47­0.79) and the expression of feelings toward the couple (OR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.46­0.95) constitute a protection line to improve prevention strategies for sexual disorders in this population.

The Effect of Daily Low Dose Tadalafil on Cerebral Perfusion and Cognition in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction and Mild Cognitive Impairment

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of daily low-dose tadalafil on cognitive function and to examine whether there was a change in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and mild cognitive impairment. METHODS: Male patients aged 50 to 75 years with at least three months of ED (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]-5 score ≤ 21) and mild cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment [MoCA] score ≤ 22) were included in the study. The subjects were prescribed a low-dose PDE5 inhibitor (tadalafil 5 mg) to be taken once daily for eight weeks. Changes in MoCA score and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) study between the two time-points were assessed by paired t tests. RESULTS: Overall, 30 male patients were assigned to the treatment group in this study and 25 patients completed the eight-week treatment course. Five patients were withdrawn due to adverse events such as myalgia and dizziness. Mean baseline IIEF and MoCA scores were 7.52 ± 4.84 and 18.92 ± 1.78. After the eight-week treatment, mean IIEF and MoCA scores were increased to 12.92 ± 7.27 (p < 0.05) and 21.8 ± 1.71 (p < 0.05), respectively. Patients showed increased relative regional CBF in the postcentral gyrus, precuneus, and brainstem after tadalafil administration versus at baseline (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this prospective clinical study suggest that daily use of tadalafil 5 mg increases some regional CBF and improves cognitive function in patients with ED and mild cognitive impairment.

Recent medical therapy for psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease. Medical therapy is the mainstay of the management of psoriasis, and the main target of psoriasis treatment is immunological dysregulation. Cyclosporine and methotrexate, the main conventional psoriasis treatments, usually lead to a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 response in 50% to 60% of patients, but show some organ toxicity. Biologics for psoriasis have recently become the main therapeutic agents for moderate to severe psoriasis unresponsive to conventional treatment. Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors were the first anti-psoriatic biologics to be developed, and also show good efficacy for psoriatic arthritis. Ustekinumab, the sole biologic designed for the inhibition of interleukin (IL)-12/23, has been most widely used for psoriasis in Korea. The main strength of ustekinumab is its relatively long treatment interval. IL-17 inhibitors have recently been introduced in Korea for psoriasis treatment. Secukinumab and ixekizumab are currently available IL-17 inhibitors that block the development of psoriasis lesions in the downstream events of psoriasis pathogenesis. They have excellent therapeutic efficacy, with a PASI 90 response in up to 60%–70% of patients. Selective IL-23 inhibitors have been more recently introduced in our country. They have an excellent PASI 90 response, and a longer injection interval than IL-17 inhibitors. New immunological modulators such as phosphodiesterase inhibitors, tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitors, and janus kinase inhibitors are planned to be introduced for psoriasis treatment. These are small molecules that can be administered orally, and some patients who are reluctant to receive injection therapy are expected to favor these therapeutic agents.

Effect and Mechanism of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors on Trabecular Outflow

PURPOSE: Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors increase matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) production by inhibiting re-uptake of adenosine and may potentiate nitric oxide (NO) activity. This study was performed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of PDE inhibitors on trabecular outflow in cultured human trabecular meshwork cells (HTMCs). METHODS: Primary HTMC cultures were exposed to 0, 20, and 50 µM dipyridamole (DPD) or theophylline (TPN). Permeability through the HTMC monolayer was assessed using carboxyfluorescein. The production of NO was assessed using the Griess assay and MMP-2 levels were measured via Western blotting. RESULTS: DPD significantly increased permeability accompanied with increased nitrite concentration and MMP-2 levels (all p 0.05). When treated with DPD and TPN together, both permeability and nitrite production were increased; however, MMP-2 levels showed no difference compared to DPD exposure alone (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: DPD increased trabecular permeability accompanied with increased nitrite production and MMP-2 levels. PDE inhibitors may increase trabecular outflow by increasing MMP-2 levels and by potentiating NO activity through cyclic GMP in HTMC.

Phytochemical composition, biological potential and enzyme inhibition activity of Scandix pecten-veneris L / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

OBJECTIVE@#Scandix pecten-veneris L. is a less studied wild edible herb and is considered an extinct plant species in many parts of the world. This study was designed to evaluate its phytochemical composition and biological potential of S. pecten-veneris L.@*METHODS@#Phytochemicals including alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins were determined in extracts of S. pecten-veneris. Antioxidant activity was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), while reducing power was tested by ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Antimicrobial activity against seven bacterial and four fungal strains was evaluated using agar well diffusion assay. Enzymes inhibition study was performed for urease, phosphodiesterase-I, and catalase-II.@*RESULTS@#S. pecten-veneris showed moderate antiradical activity and reducing potential of hydroxyl radicals to about 20% of the initial value. The antioxidant activity of various extracts of S. pecten-veneris showed a linear correlation with total phenolic contents in the order of water>n-butanol>chloroform>ethyl acetate>methanol extracts. S. pecten-veneris leaves showed the highest inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus while the highest antifungal activity was observed against Candida albicans. The plant extract was most potent against urease enzymes but showed moderate activity against phosphodiestrase-I and carbonic anhydrase-II.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Our data demonstrate that in addition to its culinary uses, S. pecten-veneris has good medicinal potential and hence could be used for treating some specific health ailments.

Efeitos cistométricos da castração hormonal e administração diária de tadalafila emcamundongos com hiperatividade detrusora induzida pela deficiência crônica de óxido nítrico

Sintomas do trato urinário inferior (STUI) representam uma das queixas mais comuns em homens. Diferentes distúrbios da micção podem resultar em STUI. Hipogonadismo é umadoença comum e subdiagnosticada no idoso, podendo estar associado a STUI. O objetivodeste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da administração crônica da Tadalafila em camundongos hipogonádicos com deficiência crônica de óxido nítrico através de estudo cistométrico in vivo. Para tanto, foi comparado a resposta da Tadalafila em animais castrados(hipogonádicos) e após reposição de testosterona (normogonádicos). Um total de quarenta edois camundongos foram randomizados em seis grupos. Grupo 1(L-NAME): L-NAME(60mg/kg), que é um inibidor da síntese da óxido-nítrico sintase, foi administrado em água debeber. Grupo 2 (DTAD): L-NAME (60mg/kg) + diluente da Tadalafila (goma xantana emanitol). Grupo 3 (TAD): L-NAME (60mg/kg) + Tadalafila diário (4mg/kg). Grupo 4(ORQ): L-NAME (60mg/kg) + orquiectomia...

Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) represents one of the most commonly complaints in male. Several voiding disorders can be involved in the pathogenesis of LUTS. Hipogonadism is a common and underdiagnoseddisease in the aging male, usually presenting simultaneously with LUTS. The objective of thisstudy wasto evaluate the cystometric effects of chronic tadalafil administration in castrated micewith nitric oxide cronic deficiency.The results of tadalafiladministration were compared in castrated mice (hypogonadics) and after testosterone replacement (eugonadics). A total of 42 mice were randomized to six groups. Group 1 (L-NAME): L-name (60mg/kg), which is an oxide-nitric sintethase inhibitor, was administrated in drinking water. Group 2 (DTAD): L-name (60mg/kg) + diluent of tadalafil (mannitol and xantane gum). Group 3 (TAD): L-name + daily tadalafil (4mg/kg). Group 4 (ORQ): L-name + orchiectomy...

Efeito da associação da tadalafila com a tansulosina no trato urinário inferior de ratos e de humanos

Recentemente, foi observado que pacientes com DE tratados com inibidores da fosfodiesterase tipo 5 ( I PDE5) melhoram não somente a ereção, mas também os sintomas do trato urinário inferior (STUI). A fisiopatologia dos STUI é desconhecida e há um número crescente de estudos que objetiva compreender suas bases fisiopatológicas. Entretanto, a despeito do conhecimento que existe sobre a melhora dos STUI, não se sabe se IPDE - 5 atua durante o armazenamento, esvaziamento ou ambos. Não se tem conhecimento se a associação do IPDE - 5 com alfabloqueador é melhor que o uso isolado e se esta associação é segura. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a segurança da associação da tansulosina com tadalafila tomados diariamente, bem como seu efeito no trato urinário inferior de humanos e de ratos por meio de estudo urodinâmico METODO: f oi realizado um estudo experimental utilizando ratos com obstrução infra - vesical crônica, induzida por L - NAME e um estudo clínico randomizado, duplo - cego e placebo - controlado durante o período de outubro de 2010 a janeiro de 2012. No estudo experimental, os animais foram distribuídos em 05 grupos; Grupo 1: seis ratos foram tratados sem medicação; Grupo 2: seis ratos foram tratados com L - NAME, na dose oral de 60 mg/Kg/dia; Grupo 3: seis ratos foram tratados com L - NAME e tansulosina (1mg/kg); Grupo 4: se te ratos fo ram tratados com L - NAME e tadalafila (5mg/kg); Grupo 5 : seis ratos foram tratados com L - NAME, tadala fila e tansulosina. Após trinta dias de tratamento, os animais foram submetidos a estudou rodinâmico. As seguintes variáveis urodinâmicos foram avaliadas. Na fase de enchimento: freqüência de contrações não - miccionais (hiperatividade detrusora), limiar de volume (LV), limiar de pressão (LP) e na fase miccional: pressão de pico (PP), freqüência dos ciclos de micção por minuto (FM), pressão basal (PB) e volume residual...

Recently, it has been observed an association between BPH and ED. It was reported that patients wi th ED treated with inhibitory phosphodiesterase type 5 ( I PDE5) improves erection and LUTS. The pathophysiology of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is not completely known, so it is necessary that clinical and experimental studies are made to clarify the mechanisms involved in its origin. However, despite the knowledge that there is improvement in LUTS, it is not known whether I PDE5 works during storage, emptying, or both. It is not yet known if the association I PDE5 with alpha blocker is better than its use alone or whether this association is safe. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of the combination of tamsulosin with daily tadalafil as well as its effect on lower urinary tract in human and rats by urodynamic study. METHODS : it was an ex perimental study using rats with chronic bladder outlet obstruction induced by L - NAME and a randomized clinical trial, double - blind, placebo - controlled study. In the experimental study, the animals were divided into 05 groups. Group 1: six rats were treate d without medication; Group 2: six rats were treated with L - NAME (60 mg/Kg/dia); Group 3: six rats were treated with L - NAME and t ansulosin (1mg/kg); Group 4: seven rats were treated with L - NAME and tadalafil (5mg/kg); grupo 5: six rats were treated with L - NAME, tadalafil and Tansulosina. After thirty days of oral treatment, the animals underwent urodynamic study. The urodynamic variables were evaluated. In the filling phase: non - void contractions (NVC) , volume threshold (VT), pressure threshold (TP) and in the voiding phase: peak pressure (PP), micturition frequency (FM), basal pressure (PB) and residual volume...

Pentoxifylline inhibits liver fibrosis via hedgehog signaling pathway / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

Infection of schistosomiasis japonica may eventually lead to liver fibrosis, and no effective antifibrotic therapies are available but liver transplantation. Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway has been involved in the process and is a promising target for treating liver fibrosis. This study aimed to explore the effects of pentoxifylline (PTX) on liver fibrosis induced by schistosoma japonicum infection by inhibiting the HH signaling pathway. Phorbol12-myristate13-acetate (PMA) was used to induce human acute mononuclear leukemia cells THP-1 to differentiate into macrophages. The THP-1-derived macrophages were stimulated by soluble egg antigen (SEA), and the culture supernatants were collected for detection of activation of macrophages. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to detect the cytotoxicity of the culture supernatant and PTX on the LX-2 cells. The LX-2 cells were administered with activated culture supernatant from macrophages and(or) PTX to detect the transforming growth factor-β gene expression. The mRNA expression of shh and gli-1, key parts in HH signaling pathway, was detected. The mRNA expression of shh and gli-1 was increased in LX-2 cells treated with activated macrophages-derived culture supernatant, suggesting HH signaling pathway may play a key role in the activation process of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The expression of these genes decreased in LX-2 cells co-cultured with both activated macrophages-derived culture supernatant and PTX, indicating PTX could suppress the activation process of HSCs. In conclusion, these data provide evidence that PTX prevents liver fibrogenesis in vitro by the suppression of HH signaling pathway.

Altitude Stress During Participation of Medical Congress / 신경중재치료의학

Medical congresses often held in highlands. We reviewed several medical issues associated with altitude stress especially while physicians have participated medical congress held in high altitude. Altitude stress, also known as an acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by acute exposure to low oxygen level at high altitude which is defined as elevations at or above 1,200 m and AMS commonly occurs above 2,500 m. Altitude stress with various symptoms including insomnia can also be experienced in airplane. AMS and drunken state share many common features in symptoms, neurologic manifestations and even show multiple microbleeds in corpus callosum and white matter on MRI. Children are more susceptible to altitude stress than adults. Gradual ascent is the best method for the prevention of altitude stress. Adequate nutrition (mainly carbohydrates) and hydration are recommended. Consumption of alcohol can exacerbate the altitude-induced impairments in judgment and the visual senses and promote psychomotor dysfunction. For prevention or treatment of altitude stress, acetazolamide, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, dexamethasone and erythropoietin are helpful. Altitude stress can be experienced relatively often during participation of medical congress. It is necessary to remind the harmful effect of AMS because it can cause serious permanent organ damage even though the symptoms are negligible in most cases.

Partial Priapism Treated with Pentoxifylline

ABSTRACTMain findings:A 26-year-old man suffering from partial priapism was successfully treated with a regimen including pentoxifylline, a nonspecific phosphodiesterase inhibitor that is often used to conservatively treat Peyronie's disease.Case hypothesis:Partial priapism is an extremely rare urological condition that is characterized by thrombosis within the proximal segment of a single corpus cavernosum. There have only been 36 reported cases to date. Although several factors have been associated with this unusual disorder, such as trauma or bicycle riding, the etiology is still not completely understood. Treatment is usually conservative and consists of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic.Promising future implications:This case report supports the utilization of pentoxifylline in patients with partial priapism due to its anti-fibrogenic and anti-thrombotic properties.

Inhaled therapy for the management of perioperative pulmonary hypertension.

Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) are at high risk for complications in the perioperative setting and often receive vasodilators to control elevated pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Administration of vasodilators via inhalation is an effective strategy for reducing PAP while avoiding systemic side effects, chiefly hypotension. The prototypical inhaled pulmonary‑specific vasodilator, nitric oxide (NO), has a proven track record but is expensive and cumbersome to implement. Alternatives to NO, including prostanoids (such as epoprostenol, iloprost, and treprostinil), NO‑donating drugs (sodium nitroprusside, nitroglycerin, and nitrite), and phosphodiesterase inhibitors (milrinone, sildenafil) may be given via inhalation for the purpose of treating elevated PAP. This review will focus on the perioperative therapy of PH using inhaled vasodilators.

Effect of cilostazol on neointimal hyperplasia in iliac arteries of pigs after transluminal angioplasty / Efeito do cilostazol na hiperplasia neointimal em artérias ilíacas de suínos submetidas à angioplastia transluminal

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether systemic administration of cilostazol reduces neointimal hyperplasia in iliac arteries of pigs submitted to balloon catheter angioplasty. METHODS:Twenty pigs underwent angioplasty with a 6x40 mm balloon catheter in the right common iliac artery, guided by Doppler ultrasound. The animals were randomized into two groups: group 1 (n=10), which received 50mg cilostazol twice a day, and group 2 (n=10), control. After 30 days, the animals were killed and the iliac arteries prepared for histological analysis. The histological sections were digitized and analyzed by digital morphometry. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student t and Mann-Whitney tests. RESULTS:When comparing the iliac arteries submitted to angioplasty with those not subjected to angioplasty, there was significant neointimal hyperplasia (0.228 versus 0.119 mm2; p=0.0001). In arteries undergoing angioplasty, there was no difference between group 1 (cilostazol) and group 2 (control) as for the lumen area (2.277 versus 2.575 mm2; p=0.08), the tunica intima (0.219 versus 0.237 mm2; p=0.64), the tunica media (2.262 vs. 2.393 mm2; p=0.53) and the neointimal occlusion percentage (8.857 vs. 9.257 %; p=0.82). CONCLUSION:The use of cilostazol 50mg administered in two daily doses did not reduce neointimal hyperplasia in iliac arteries of pigs submitted to balloon angioplasty catheter.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a administração sistêmica de cilostazol reduz a hiperplasia neointimal nas artérias ilíacas de suínos submetidas à angioplastia com cateter balão. MÉTODOS:Vinte suínos foram submetidos à angioplastia com cateter balão 6x40 mm na artéria ilíaca comum direita, guiada por ultrassonografia com Doppler. Os animais foram randomizados em dois grupos: grupo 1 (n=10), no qual foi administrado cilostazol 50mg em duas doses diárias, e grupo 2 (n=10), considerado controle. Após 30 dias, os animais foram mortos, e as artérias ilíacas preparadas para análise histológica. Os cortes histológicos foram digitalizados e analisados por morfometria digital. A análise estatística foi realizada com o teste t de Student e o de Mann-Whitney. RESULTADOS: Comparando as artérias ilíacas submetidas à angioplastia com as artérias não submetidas à angioplastia, houve hiperplasia neointimal significativa (0,228 versus 0,119 mm2; p=0,0001). Nas artérias submetidas à angioplastia, não houve diferença entre o grupo 1 (cilostazol) e o grupo 2 (controle) na área do lúmen (2,277 versus 2,575 mm2; p=0,08), área da íntima (0,219 versus 0,237 mm2; p=0,64), área da média (2,262 versus 2,393 mm2; p=0,53) e no percentual de obstrução neointimal (8,857 versus 9,257 %; p=0,82).CONCLUSÃO: O uso de cilostazol 50mg administrado em duas doses diárias durante 30 dias não reduziu a hiperplasia neointimal em artérias ilíacas de suínos submetidas à angioplastia com cateter balão.

Current Status and Clinical Studies of Oriental Herbs in Sexual Medicine in Korea

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common diseases among aging men. Although previous studies have shown that type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDE5-Is) are very effective for the treatment of ED, many researchers are currently attempting to identify therapeutic agents from natural sources with comparable or better effects than PDE5-Is. Herbal medicine is thought to be advantageous because it is natural; moreover, it not only treats isolated symptoms, but also maintains general well-being. Furthermore, since newly created chemical compound libraries have limited structural diversity with regard to pharmaceutical agents, more attention has recently been paid to the ability of oriental herbs to enhance physical health, including sexual function. Herein, we review the current status of Korean preclinical or clinical studies of the application of oriental herbs to sexual medicine.

Estudo comparativo entre pentoxifilina e triancinolona no tratamento das cicatrizes hipertróficas pós-queimadura quanto à remodelação do colágeno e das fibras do sistema elástico / Comparative study of pentoxifylline and triamcinolone in the treatment of post-burn hypertrophic scars on the collagen remodeling and elastic system fibers

Introdução: O tratamento das sequelas cicatriciais permanece um desafio na prática diária. Corticosteroides injetáveis são amplamente utilizados no combate a queloides e cicatrizes hipertróficas, mas substâncias como a pentoxifilina (PTF) também têm demonstrado eficácia clínica na modulação dessas cicatrizes. Objetivos: No presente estudo, propusemos a comparação dos efeitos da PTF e do corticosteroide triancinolona nas cicatrizes hipertróficas de pacientes vítimas de queimaduras por meio de análise histológica da organização das fibras que contêm colágeno e das fibras do sistema elástico. Métodos: Foram estudadas amostras de pele cicatricial de 10 pacientes, entre 20 e 40 anos, com história de queimaduras em tronco, com até 24 meses de evolução, não tratadas cirurgicamente. Cada paciente teve duas áreas cicatriciais tratadas, uma com Hexacetonido de Triancinolona 20 mg/ml e outra com Pentoxifilina 1 mg/ ml; tendo sido realizadas três aplicações intracicatriciais com intervalos mensais. Uma biópsia de cada área tratada foi colhida após 30 dias de cada aplicação. Resultados: Os resultados clínicos foram evidentes e semelhantes para as duas drogas: diminuição da espessura, do prurido, da hiperemia e da consistência da cicatriz. Não se observaram diferenças arquiteturais no tecido conjuntivo subepidérmico quando comparadas a cicatriz original com as cicatrizes após cada tipo de tratamento (grandes feixes de fibras colágenas em todas as direções, com ausência de fibras do sistema elástico). Estudos subsequentes envolvendo a análise da espessura total da cicatriz e o grau de vascularização/ inflamação presentes se fazem necessários na investigação da justificativa da eficácia clínica dos tratamentos. Conclusão: Concluímos que a PTF teve uma resposta clínica e morfológica similar à triancinolona nos casos tratados.

Introduction: The treatment of scarring sequelae remains challenge in daily practice. Injecting corticosteroids are widely used to combat keloids and hypertrophic scars, but substances such as pentoxifylline (PTF) have also demonstrated clinical efficacy in modulating these scars. Objectives: This study set out to compare the effects of TFP and corticosteroid triamcinolone in hypertrophic scars of burn victims by histological analysis of the organization of the fibers containing collagen and elastic system fibers. Methods: Scar skin samples from 10patients were studied between 20 and 40 years, with a history of burns on the trunk, up to 24 months of evolution, not surgically treated. Each patient had two treated scar areas, one with triamcinolone hexacetonide 20 mg/ml and the other with pentoxifylline 1 mg/ml; having been held three intracicatriciais applications at monthly intervals. A biopsy of each treated area was harvested after 30 days of each application. Results: The clinical results were evident and similar for the two drugs: thinning, itching, hyperemia and scar consistency. There were no differences in architectural subepidermal connective tissue when compared with the original scar scars after each treatment (large bundles of collagen fibers in all directions with no elastic system fibers). Subsequent studies involving the analysis of the total thickness of the scar and the extent of vascularization/inflammation gifts are needed to investigate the reasons of clinical efficacy of treatments. Conclusion: We conclude that TFP had a clinical and morphological response similar to triamcinolone in treated cases.

Pentoxifylline associated to hypertonic saline solution attenuates inflammatory process and apoptosis after intestinal ischemia/reperfusion in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate intestinal inflammatory and apoptotic processes after intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury, modulated by pentoxifylline and hypertonic saline. METHODS: It was allocated into four groups (n=6), 24 male Wistar rats (200 to 250g) and submitted to intestinal ischemia for 40 min and reperfusion for 80 min: IR (did not receive any treatment); HS group (Hypertonic Saline, 4ml/kg-IV); PTX group (Pentoxifylline, 30mg/kg-IV); HS+PTX group (Hypertonic Saline and Pentoxifylline). All animals were heparinized (100U/kg). At the end of reperfusion, ileal fragments were removed and stained on hematoxylin-eosin and histochemical studies for COX-2, Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3. RESULTS: The values of sO2 were higher on treated groups at 40 minutes of reperfusion (p=0.0081) and 80 minutes of reperfusion (p=0.0072). Serum lactate values were lower on treated groups after 40 minutes of reperfusion (p=0.0003) and 80 minutes of reperfusion (p=0.0098). Morphologic tissue injuries showed higher grades on IR group versus other groups: HS (p=0.0006), PTX (p=0.0433) and HS+PTX (p=0.0040). The histochemical study showed lesser expression of COX-2 (p=0.0015) and Bcl-2 (p=0.0012) on HS+PTX group. A lower expression of cleaved caspase-3 was demonstrated in PTX (p=0.0090; PTXvsIR). CONCLUSION: The combined use of pentoxifylline and hypertonic saline offers best results on inflammatory and apoptotic inhibitory aspects after intestinal ischemia/reperfusion. .

Hipertensión pulmonar asociada a HIV / HIV-associated pulmonary hypertension

La hipertensión pulmonar (HP) es una patología grave, que si bien es infrecuente, en los pacientes HIV+ se presenta hasta 12 veces más que en la población general; su diagnóstico precoz, en pacientes asintomáticos o con síntomas leves brinda la posibilidad de un tratamiento específico que mejora sustancialmente el pronóstico en estos pacientes. Si bien la fisiopatología de la HP asociada a HIV permanece desconocida y se considera de origen ultifactorial, existe evidencia de que distintas proteínas virales juegan un importante rol en su génesis. En todo paciente HIV+ con disnea a mínimos esfuerzos se debe descartar junto con otras etiologías la HP. el método de screening inicial es el ecodoppler cardíaco y la confirmación se realiza mediante cateterización cardiaca derecha. Es imprescindible tanto el tratamiento específico como la instauración precoz del TARV al diagnóstico, como así manejarse en conjunto con equipos con experiencia en esta patología...

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious condition, although it is uncommon in HIV + patients presented up to 12 times more than in the general population; its early diagnosis in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic offers the possibility of a treatment specific substantially improve prognosis in these patients. Although the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypetension associated with HIV remains unknown and is considered multifactorial, there is evidence that different viral proteins play an important role in its genesis. In any patient with dyspnea on minimal exertion should be discarded along with other etiologies of PH. The initial screening method is the heart doppler and confirmation is donde by right heart catheterization. It is essential to both the specific treatment as early institution of ART at diagnosis; as well it handled in conjuntion with experienced teams in this pathology...

First report of in vitro selection of RNA aptamers targeted to recombinant Loxosceles laeta spider toxins

BACKGROUND: Loxoscelism is the envenomation caused by the bite of Loxosceles spp. spiders. It entails severe necrotizing skin lesions, sometimes accompanied by systemic reactions and even death. There are no diagnostic means and treatment is mostly palliative. The main toxin, found in several isoforms in the venom, is sphingomyelinase D (SMD), a phospholipase that has been used to generate antibodies intended for medical applications. Nucleic acid aptamers are a promising alternative to antibodies. Aptamers may be isolated from a combinatorial mixture of oligonucleotides by iterative selection of those that bind to the target. In this work, two Loxosceles laeta SMD isoforms, Ll1 and Ll2, were produced in bacteria and used as targets with the aim of identifying RNA aptamers that inhibit sphingomyelinase activity. RESULTS: Six RNA aptamers capable of eliciting partial but statistically significant inhibitions of the sphingomyelinase activity of recombinant SMD-Ll1 and SMD-Ll2 were obtained: four aptamers exert ~17% inhibition of SMD-Ll1, while two aptamers result in ~25% inhibition of SMD-Ll2 and ~18% cross inhibition of SMD-Ll1. CONCLUSIONS: This work is the first attempt to obtain aptamers with therapeutic and diagnostic potential for loxoscelism and provides an initial platform to undertake the development of novel anti Loxoscelesvenom agents.