Efeito de géis fluoretados suplementados com trimetafosfato de sódio nanoparticulado sobre a remineralização do esmalte dental in situ / Effect of fluoride gels supplemented with nanosized sodium trimetaphosphate on enamel remineralization in situ

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito de géis fluoretados suplementados com nanopartículas de Trimetafosfato de Sódio (TMP) sobre a remineralização de lesões de cárie artificiais in situ. Blocos de esmalte dental bovino (n=160) foram aleatoriamente divididos entre os grupos de estudo após análise de dureza de superfície (DS) e indução de lesões de subsuperfície. Os géis testados foram: Placebo (sem flúor ou TMP ­ controle negativo), 9000 µg F/g (9000F ­ controle positivo), 4500 µg F/g + 5% TMP microparticulado (4500 5%TMPmicro) e 4500 µg F/g + 5% TMP nanoparticulado (4500 5%TMPnano). Dez voluntários utilizaram dispositivos palatinos contendo 4 blocos de esmalte durante 3 dias, após uma única aplicação dos géis, seguindo um protocolo duplo-cego e cruzado. Dois blocos de esmalte foram removidos imediatamente após a aplicação dos géis, para determinar a concentração de fluoreto de cálcio (CaF2) formado. Após cada fase, determinou-se a porcentagem de recuperação de dureza de superfície (%RDS) e CaF2 retido no esmalte. Os dados foram submetidos ANOVA de medidas repetidas e teste de Student-Newman-Keuls (p< 0.05). A maior %RDS foi observada para o gel 4500 5%TMPnano, seguido por 4500 5%TMPmicro, 9000F e Placebo, com diferenças significativas entre os grupos. Em relação ao CaF2 formado, a maior concentração foi observada para o grupo 9000F. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os grupos 9000F, 4500 5%TMPmicro e 4500 5%TMPnano para concentrações de CaF2 retido. Conclui-se que a adição de TMP a géis fluoretados melhorou significativamente a remineralização de lesões de cárie in situ. O uso de TMP em escala nanométrica potencializou ainda mais este efeito(AU)

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of fluoride gels supplemented with nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on the remineralization of artificial caries lesions in situ. Bovine enamel blocks (n=160) were randomly distributed among study groups after surface microhardness (SH) analysis and induction of subsurface lesions. Test groups included: Placebo (without F and TMP ­ negative control), 9000 µg F/g (9000F ­ positive control), 4500 µg F/g + 5% micrometric TMP (4500 5%+ TMPmicro) and 4500 µg F/g + 5% nano-sized TMP (4500 + 5%TMPnano). Ten volunteers used palatal devices containing 4 enamel blocks during 3 days, after a single application of gels, following a double-blind and crossover protocol. Two enamel blocks were removed immediately after topical application of F to determine calcium fluoride (CaF2) formed on enamel. After each phase, the samples were analyzed by percentage of surface hardness recovery (%SHR) and CaF2 retained on enamel. Data were analyzed by repeated-measures ANOVA and Student-NewmanKeuls test (p< 0.05). The highest %SHR was observed for 4500 5%TMPnano gel, following by 4500 5%TPMmicro, 9000F, and Placebo, with significant differences among all groups. Regarding CaF2 formed, the highest concentration was observed in the 9000F group. No significant differences were observed among 9000F, 4500 5%TMPmicro and 4500 5%TMPnano groups for concentrations of CaF2 retained. It was concluded that the addition of TMP to gels improved the remineralization of caries lesions in situ. The use of nano-sized TMP further enhanced this effect(AU)

Annual Report of the Korean Association of External Quality Assessment Service on Transfusion Medicine (2018)

Herein, we report the results of the 2018 survey on the external quality assessment (EQA) scheme for the Transfusion Medicine Program (TMP) in Korea. The proficiency testing specimens were prepared at Ajou University Hospital and were sent to the participants biannually. The average accuracy rates for ten different test items on the regular survey were as follows: ABO typing, 99.5%–99.8% (N=841); RhD typing, 99.8%–100.0% (N=827); crossmatching, 89.4%–99.6% (N=708); ABO subtyping, 94.2% and 94.4% (N=53); Rh CcEe antigen testing, all 100.0% (N=51); weak D test, 80.9% (N=207) for the first trial and not graded for the second trial; antibody screening, 99.7%–100.0% (N=304); direct antiglobulin test (DAT) using a polyspecific reagent, 98.9%–100.0% (N=264); DAT using an immunoglobulin-G monospecific reagent, all 100.0% (N=66); DAT using a C3d monospecific reagent, 97.0%–100.0% (N=67); antibody identification, 98.4%–100.0% (N=127); and ABO antibody titration, 84.6%–100.0% (N=73). There were approximately 10.5% more participants in the 2018 EQA scheme than that in 2017. Excellent survey results were obtained in the 2018 EQA scheme compared with those in 2017, except for the weak D test. The 2018 EQA scheme for the TMP should be helpful for improving the quality of the participating laboratories.

Tetramethylpyrazine reverses anxiety-like behaviors in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a trauma-induced psychiatric disorder characterized by impaired fear extermination, hyperarousal, and anxiety that may involve the release of monoamines in the fear circuit. The reported pharmacological properties of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) include anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-atherosclerotic, and neuropsychiatric activities. However, the anxiolytic-like effects of TMP and its mechanism of action in PTSD are unclear. This study measured several anxiety-related behavioral responses to examine the effects of TMP on symptoms of anxiety in rats after single prolonged stress (SPS) exposure by reversing the serotonin (5-HT) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction. Rats were given TMP (10, 20, or 40 mg/kg, i.p.) for 14 days after SPS exposure. Administration of TMP significantly reduced grooming behavior, increased the time spent and number of visits to the open arm in the elevated plus maze test, and significantly increased the number of central zone crossings in the open field test. TMP administration significantly reduced the freezing response to contextual fear conditioning and significantly restored the neurochemical abnormalities and the SPS-induced decrease in 5-HT tissue levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The increased 5-HT concentration during TMP treatment might be partially attribute to the tryptophan and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid mRNA level expression in the hippocampus of rats with PTSD. These findings support a role for reducing the altered serotonergic transmission in rats with PTSD. TMP simultaneously attenuated the HPA axis dysfunction. Therefore, TMP may be useful for developing an agent for treating psychiatric disorders, such those observed in patients with PTSD.

Annual Report on the External Quality Assessment Scheme for Transfusion Medicine in Korea (2017)

Here, we have reported results of the surveys on the external quality assessment scheme (EQA) of the Transfusion Medicine Program (TMP) in Korea that were carried out in 2017. The proficiency testing specimens were prepared at Ajou University Hospital, and sent to the participants biannually. The average accuracy rates (N=the number of participants) for ten different test items on the regular survey were as follows: ABO typing, 99.1%–99.9% (N=714); RhD typing, 99.3%–100.0% (N=695); crossmatching, 88.9%–98.5% (N=618); ABO subtyping, 80.7% and 96.0% (N=51); Rh CcEe antigen testing, 98.8%–100.0% (N=51); weak D test, 99.3% and 100.0 (N=150); antibody screening, 98.6%–100.0% (N=295); direct antiglobulin test (DAT) using a poly-specific reagent, 99.2%–100.0 (N=256); DAT using an immunoglobulin-G monospecific reagent, all 100.0% (N=68); DAT using a C3d-monospecific reagent, 83.6%–100.0% (N=72); antibody identification, 88.7%–99.2% (N=123); and ABO Ab titration, 84.6%–100.0% (N=73). The number of participants for the EQA for TMP in 2017 was much higher than that in 2016. Except for the case of ABO subtyping, excellent survey results for the 2017 EQA for TMP were obtained, compared to those in 2016. Thus, the EQA for TMP in 2017 should be helpful for improving the quality of the participating laboratories.

Fibrinogen-Based Collagen Fleece Graft Myringoplasty for Traumatic Tympanic Membrane Perforation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate how fibrinogen-based collagen fleece (Tachocomb®) graft myringoplasty (FCGM), performed under microscopic guidance, improves both hearing and tympanic membrane tissue repair in patients with traumatic tympanic membrane perforation (TMP). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Between August 2009 and March 2015, a total of 52 patients with traumatic TMP visited the department of otorhinolaryngology at a secondary medical center. Twenty-nine of these underwent FCGM under microscopic guidance in our outpatient clinic. For each patient, we recorded the location and size of the perforation, the time elapsed from the onset of TMP until the myringoplasty, and the hearing level both before and after myringoplasty. RESULTS: The TMP closed completely in all cases (29 of 29 patients). After myringoplasty, the postoperative air-bone gap (ABG) differed significantly from the preoperative ABG. Three of the 29 patients (10.3%) experienced complications. Specifically, 2 presented with otorrhea after FCGM, but conservative management led to improvement without recurrence of perforation. One patient showed delayed facial palsy 1 week after the procedure. The condition of this patient also improved and the palsy was not permanent. CONCLUSIONS: FCGM may be an effective treatment option in case of traumatic TMP. The procedure requires no hospitalization, and can be used to avoid traditional tympanoplasty.

Tetramethylpyrazine protects Schwann cells from ischemia-like injury and increases cell survival in cold ischemic rat nerves

Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), a major active ingredient of Ligusticum wallichi Franchat extract (a Chinese herb), exhibits neuroprotective properties in ischemia. In this study, we assessed its protective effects on Schwann cells (SCs) by culturing them in the presence of oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) conditions and measuring cell survival in cold ischemic rat nerves. In the OGD-induced ischemic injury model of SCs, we demonstrated that TMP treatment not only reduced OGD-induced cell viability losses, cell death, and apoptosis of SCs in a dose-dependent manner, and inhibited LDH release, but also suppressed OGD-induced downregulation of Bcl-2 and upregulation of Bax and caspase-3, as well as inhibited the consequent activation of caspase-3. In the cold ischemic nerve model, we found that prolonged cold ischemic exposure for four weeks was markedly associated with the absence of SCs, a decrease in cell viability, and apoptosis in preserved nerve segments incubated in University of Wisconsin solution (UWS) alone. However, TMP attenuated nerve segment damage by preserving SCs and antagonizing the decrease in nerve fiber viability and increase in TUNEL-positive cells in a dose-dependent manner. Collectively, our results indicate that TMP not only provides protective effects in an ischemia-like injury model of cultured rat SCs by regulating Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3, but also increases cell survival and suppresses apoptosis in the cold ischemic nerve model after prolonged ischemic exposure for four weeks. Therefore, TMP may be a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for preventing peripheral nervous system ischemic diseases and improving peripheral nerve storage.

Tetrametilpirazina (TMP), o principal componente do extrato de Ligusticum wallichi Franchat (erva chinesa), apresenta propriedades neuroprotetoras na isquemia. Nesse estudo, avaliamos seus efeitos protetores nas células de Schwann (SC), cultivando-as na presença de condições de depleção de oxigênio da glicose (OGD) e medindo a sobrevivência dos nervos de ratos isquêmicos pelo resfriamento. No modelo de lesão isquêmica em SC induzida por OGD, demonstramos que o tratamento com TMP não somente reduziu as perdas de viabilidade celular induzida por OGD, a morte celular, a apoptose de SC dose-dependente e inibiu a liberação de LDH, mas, também, suprimiu a infra-regulação do Vcl-2 e a supra-regulação de Bax e caspase-3, e inibiu a consequente ativação da caspase-3. No modelo de nervo isquêmico por resfriamento, observamos que a exposição prolongada ao resfriamento por quatro semanas estava, marcadamente, associada com a ausência de SC, com o decréscimo da viabilidade celular e a apoptose em segmentos de nervo incubados na solução da Universidade de Wisconsin apenas. Entretanto, a TMP atenuou o dano no segmento do nervo preservando SC e antagonizando a diminuição da viabilidade da fibra nervosa e o aumento das células TUNEL-positiva de modo dose-dependente. De forma conjunta, nossos resultados indicam que o TMP não só fornece efeitos protetores em um modelo de dano semelhante à isquemia de SC de ratos cultivados pela regulação de BCl-2, Bax e caspase 3, mas, também, aumenta a sobrevivência celular e suprime a apoptose no modelo de isquemia por resfriamento por exposição prolongada por quatro semanas. Então, TMP pode ser uma estratégia terapêutica eficaz para prevenir doenças isquêmicas do sistema nervoso periférico e melhora a armazenagem do nervo periférico.

Effect of Aspiration Thrombectomy on Microvascular Dysfunction in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction With an Elevated Neutrophil Count

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Aspiration thrombectomy (AT) during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an effective adjunctive therapy for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). An elevated neutrophil count in STEMI is associated with microvascular dysfunction and adverse outcomes. We evaluated whether AT can improve microvascular dysfunction in patients with STEMI and an elevated neutrophil count. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Seventy patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI from August 2007 to February 2009 in our institution were classified by tertiles of neutrophil count on admission (7,600/mm3). The angiographic outcome was post-procedural thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade. Microvascular dysfunction was assessed by TIMI myocardial perfusion (TMP) grade and ST-segment resolution on electrocardiography 90 minutes after PCI. The clinical outcome was major adverse cardiac event (MACE), defined as cardiac death, re-infarction, and target lesion revascularization at 9 months. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the clinical characteristics and pre- and post-procedural TIMI flow grades between the neutrophil tertiles. As the neutrophil count increased, a lower tendency toward TMP grade 3 (83% vs. 52% vs. 54%, p=0.06) and more persistent residual ST-segment elevation (>4 mm: 13% vs. 26% vs. 58%, p=0.005) was observed. The 9-month MACE rate was similar between the groups. On subgroup analysis of AT patients (n=52) classified by neutrophil tertiles, the same tendency toward less frequent TMP grade 3 (77% vs. 56% vs. 47%, p=0.06) and persistent residual ST-segment elevation (>4 mm: 12% vs. 28% vs. 53%, p=0.05) was observed as neutrophil count increased. CONCLUSION: A higher neutrophil count at presentation in STEMI is associated with more severe microvascular dysfunction after primary PCI, which is not improved with AT.

Effect of Aspiration Thrombectomy on Microvascular Dysfunction in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction With an Elevated Neutrophil Count

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Aspiration thrombectomy (AT) during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an effective adjunctive therapy for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). An elevated neutrophil count in STEMI is associated with microvascular dysfunction and adverse outcomes. We evaluated whether AT can improve microvascular dysfunction in patients with STEMI and an elevated neutrophil count. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Seventy patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI from August 2007 to February 2009 in our institution were classified by tertiles of neutrophil count on admission (7,600/mm3). The angiographic outcome was post-procedural thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade. Microvascular dysfunction was assessed by TIMI myocardial perfusion (TMP) grade and ST-segment resolution on electrocardiography 90 minutes after PCI. The clinical outcome was major adverse cardiac event (MACE), defined as cardiac death, re-infarction, and target lesion revascularization at 9 months. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the clinical characteristics and pre- and post-procedural TIMI flow grades between the neutrophil tertiles. As the neutrophil count increased, a lower tendency toward TMP grade 3 (83% vs. 52% vs. 54%, p=0.06) and more persistent residual ST-segment elevation (>4 mm: 13% vs. 26% vs. 58%, p=0.005) was observed. The 9-month MACE rate was similar between the groups. On subgroup analysis of AT patients (n=52) classified by neutrophil tertiles, the same tendency toward less frequent TMP grade 3 (77% vs. 56% vs. 47%, p=0.06) and persistent residual ST-segment elevation (>4 mm: 12% vs. 28% vs. 53%, p=0.05) was observed as neutrophil count increased. CONCLUSION: A higher neutrophil count at presentation in STEMI is associated with more severe microvascular dysfunction after primary PCI, which is not improved with AT.

Planejamento racional de novos tuberculostáticos com base na estrutura das enzimas enoil redutase e timidina monofosfato quinase do Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Rational design of new antituberculosis agents based on the structures of Mycobacterium tuberculosis enzymes enoyl reductase and thymidylate kinase

Nos últimos quinze anos, a tuberculose (TB) ressurgiu tanto em países em desenvolvimento quanto naqueles desenvolvidos. Em 1993, a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) declarou a TB como emergência global de saúde pública. Atualmente, um terço da população mundial está infectada pelo Mycobacterium tuberculosis e mais de 10% destes indivíduos desenvolverão a doença ativa. Em 2006, estimaram-se 9 milhões de novos casos de TB em todo o mundo. No Brasil, aproximadamente 95.000 novos casos são registrados anualmente, com incidência de 50 casos em cada 100.000 habitantes. Tendo em vista o quadro alarmante da TB no mundo e, em especial no Brasil, e considerando os índices elevados de resistência do microrganismo aos fármacos convencionalmente utilizados na terapêutica, há necessidade urgente do desenvolvimento de novos tuberculostáticos. Além disso, a busca por novos alvos de ação se faz necessária, já que os antimicobacterianos utilizados na terapia anti-TB têm como alvo apenas pequeno número de enzimas relacionadas a funções essenciais do microrganismo. A biossíntese bacteriana de ácidos graxos tem despertado atenção especial como alvo atraente no desenvolvimento de novos agentes antibacterianos. Diferenças bioquímicas e funcionais fazem com que as enzimas envolvidas em tal processo sejam alvos potencialmente atraentes para o desenvolvimento de novos agentes antibacterianos/antimicobacterianos. As enoil-acp redutases são enzimas determinantes na etapa de alongamento de ácidos graxos, produtos intermediários na biossíntese dos principais constituintes da parede celular micobacteriana, os ácidos micólicos...

Influencing Factors to the Filter Life on Continuous Venovenous Hemodiafiltration without Anticoagulantion / 대한신장학회잡지

BACKGROUND: Continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) is advantageous in ARF patients with the unstable emodynamics and multiorgan failure. However, use of anticoagulation is sometimes hampered by their concurrent bleeding tendency. We performed the retrospective analysis to investigate the factors that could influence on the filter life. METHODS: The patients on CVVHDF without anticoagulation who required exchange of filter 8 times or more due to clotting were included. We measured filter life, clotting time, hemoglobin, platelet count, blood flow rate, dialysate flow rate, replacement fluid flow rate and blood pressure just before the initiation of every filter. We also measured mechanical pressures relevant to the filter, such as access pressures, filter pressure, return pressure and transmembrane pressure (TMP) within the last 6 hours before termination of every filter. RESULTS: Twenty-three patients (age 57+/-16, M: F=19: 4) showed the median filter life of 9 hours 20 minutes. The filter life was not influenced by the included variables. TMP significantly increased every hour during the last 6 hours before the end of filter life (p<0.01). When TMP was greater than 120 mmHg, TMP significantly increased every hour thereafter and CVVHDF was terminated within 4 hours. CONCLUSION: This study suggested that the possibility of filter clotting should be suspected when TMP is greater than 120 mmHg in the setting of CVVHDF without anticoagulation.

Effect of Distal Protection Device on the Microvascular Integrity during Primary Stenting in Acute Myocardial Infarction: Distal Protection Device in Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Phasic coronary flow velocity patterns and microvascular integrities are known to be prognostic factors in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The use of a distal protection device during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) may preserve the microvascular integrity of the myocardium by preventing distal embolization of thrombotic materials. This study assessed the effects of such a device on microvascular integrity preservation through Doppler studies of the coronary flow velocities in AMI patients treated with primary PCI. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of fifty-eight consecutive patients (mean age 54+/-15, 46 males) with ST segment-elevated AMI, who had undergone primary PCI within 24 hours after onset, were enrolled in the study. The subjects were divided into two groups: 30 patients with the PurcuSurge GuardWire Temporary Occlusion and Aspiration System and 28 without. The TIMI flows and TMP grades (TIMI myocardial perfusion grade) were evaluated. The coronary flow velocities were measured after PCI with a Doppler wire at the baseline, and also after intracoronary adenosine (24-48 microgram) induced hyperemia. The coronary flow velocity reserve (CFR), diastolic deceleration time (DDT) and microvascular resistance index (MVRI) were calculated. RESULTS: Between the two groups, no significant differences were found in the angiographic characteristics and CFR. In patients with a distal protection device, however, the post-PCI TMP grades were more favorable (TMP 0/1: 13.3%, TMP 2: 23.3%, TMP 3: 63.4% vs. TMP 0/1: 35.7%, TMP 2: 35.7%, TMP 3: 28.6%, p=0.023), with TMP grade 3 being most common (63.4% vs. 28.6%, p=0.010). These patients also exhibited lower bMVRI and hMVRI levels (4.33+/-2.22 vs. 5.55+/-2.36 mmHg.m-1.sec (p=0.047) and 2.39+/-1.40 vs. 3.14+/-1.36 mmHg.cm-1. sec (p=0.045), respectively), and longer bDDT and hDDT (679+/-273 vs. 519+/-289 msec (p=0.035) and 761+/-256 vs. 618+/-272 msec (p=0.044), respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Distal protection with the PurcuSurge GuardWire system may effectively preserve the microvascular integrity of the myocardium during primary PCI in AMI patients.

Preprocedural hs-CRP Level Serves as a Marker for Procedure-Related Myocardial Injury During Coronary Stenting

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Elevated hs-CRP (high sensitivity C-reactive protein) is well known as a biomarker reflecting the inflammatory process that might evoke the potential for microembolization of an atheromatous plaque, and imparts a poor prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease. We designed this study to evaluate whether the preprocedural hs-CRP level was associated with procedure-related myocardial injury following coronary stenting. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We obtained the plasma hs-CRP level from angina patient, who underwent coronary stenting, within 24 hours prior to the procedure, and divided the patients into either the normal CRP (hs-CRP or =3 mg/L). We defined the reduction of TMP (TIMI myocardial perfusion) grade as at least one decrease in the TMP grade following coronary stenting compared with the pre-procedural TMP. We also evaluate the procedure-related myocardial damage by measuring CK-MB leakage after stenting. RESULTS: We enrolled 279 lesions in 226 patients, who were divided into two groups: the normal CRP group (n=137, 1.28+/-0.71 mg/L) and the elevated CRP group (n=89, 6.89+/-4.23 mg/L). A reduction in the TMP grade was significantly more prevalent in the elevated CRP (20 lesions, 17.4%) compared to the normal CRP group (6 lesions, 3.7%, p=0.001). An elevated CRP level was related to an increased CK-MB leakage following stenting (elevated CRP group; 23 patients, 25.8%, normal CRP group; 21 patients, 15.3%, p=0.041). In a multivariable analysis, the only significant predictor of a reduction in the TMP grade following stenting was an elevated CRP level. CONCLUSION: Systemically detectable inflammatory activity, served by the plasma hs-CRP level, is associated with procedure-related microvascular injury, as assessed by a reduction in the TMP grade and CK-MB elevation following coronary stenting.

Comparison of TIMI Myocardial Perfusion Grade with Coronary Flow Reserve for Prediction of Recovery of LV Function and LV Remodeling in Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The TIMI myocardial perfusion (TMP) grade is known as one of the methods to assess the viability of the myocardium in ischemic heart disease. This study was designed to assess the value of TMP grade itself and to evaluate the correlation with coronary flow reserve (CFR) in the prediction of left ventricular remodeling and functional change after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We measured CFR and TMP grade after successful elective PCI (diameter stenosis <0%, and TIMI flow 3) in 83 patients (mean age 55+/-1 years, 18 females) with AMI within 7 days of symptom onset. Left ventricular end diastolic volume index (LVEDVI), left ventricular end systolic volume index (LVESVI), ejection fraction (LVEF), and left ventricular regional wall motion score index (LVRWMSI) were assessed by echocardiography just before and at 9 months after angioplasty (mean 9+/-5 months). RESULTS: Although they had achieved (TIMI 0.021) TIMI 3 flow after successful intervention, 27 of 83 patients (32.5%) had impaired myocardial perfusion. After PCI, angiographic TMP grade was well correlated with CFR measured using Doppler wire (TMP 0/1;1.4+/-0.3, TMP 2;1.9+/-0.6, TMP 3;2.2+/-0.4, rs=0.618, p=0.000). Post-PCI TMP grade was significantly related to the change of LVEDVI (r=0.452, p=0.000), LVESVI (r=0.435, p=0.000), LVEF (r=0.281, p=0.010) and LVRWMSI (r=0.328, p=0.036). CONCLUSION: The TMP grade, a simple angiographic method, might be useful as a predictor of LV volume and functional change in AMI. In the cardiac catheterization laboratory, it could simply replace CFR for the assessment of myocardial viability in patients who receive an elective PCI within 7 days of AMI onset.

Pro-fibrillatory Effects of KATP Channel Opener and the Action Potential Duration Restitution Kinetics in Isolated Swine Right Ventricle

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: It remains to be defined how K[ATP] Channel Opener facilitates to induce ventricular arrhythmias. The purposes of this study are to assess the effects of K[ARP] Channel Opener, PCO400, on the action potential duration (APD) and APD restitution (APDR) kinetics, and their relationship with induction of ventricular tachycardia (VT)/fibrillation (VF), pro-fibrillatory effects. MATERALS AND METHODS: We recorded transmembrane potentials (TMPs) by microelectrode technique to explore the effects of PCO400 in ninetecn isolated perfused swine right ventricles. TMPs were recorded on the endoeardial side at the concentrations 0 micrometer, 1 micrometer, 2.5 micrometer, 5 micrometer, 10 micrometer, and washed-out period (1 hour). Ventricular refractory periods were measured while scanning djastole with premature ventricular beats during pacing at the cycle length of 600 ms at each concentration. The maximal slopes (Smax) of APDR were calculated with the data of S1S2 pacing and VF. RESULTS: PCO400 reduced APD90 (208+/-76 ms to 41+/-9 ms during S1, p<0.001, 111+/-32 ms to 54+/-28 ms during VF, p<0.001). While PCO400 tended to increase Smax of APDR at the concentration of 1 micrometer (0.6 to 0.7 by S1S2, 2.3 to 3.0 during VF), it reduced Smax at higher concentrations (-0.01 by S1-S2, p<0.05;-1.1 during VF, p<0.01). The increment of PCO400 concentration was associated with facilitated VT/VF induction (24.4% to 100%, p<0.001). Spontaneous VF induction rate was the highest at 1 micrometer (38.5%) which resulted in the highest Smax. CONCLUSION: PCO400 shows pro-fibrillatory effect by APD reduction and dynamic changes of Smax, Smax is closely related to spontancous induction of VT/VF, and APD90 shortening below 70 ms is critical for the maintenance of VT/VF.

Inhibitory Effects of Siryungtang and Onbitang on Oxidation of Low Density Lipoprotein / 대한신장학회잡지

BACKGROUND: LDL deposition and local oxidation play a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis. Oxidation of LDL need to be catalyzed by copper or iron, whereas the antioxidants, such as probucol, superoxide dismutase, L-ascorbic acid, dehydro-L-ascorbic acid inhibit oxidation of LDL. Recently, the herbal medicines, such as Astragali Radix, Radix angelicae sinensis were shown to have inhibitory effects on lipid oxidation. So, we investigated the effects of Siryungtang and Onbitang on oxidation of LDL. METHODS: Siryungtang and Onbitang were selected. LDL was isolated from the plasma of normal volunteers by sequential ultracentrifugation by using potassium bromide(KBr) for density adjustment. The chemical oxidation of LDL was performed by the addition of 10micro-osmole CuSO4 in phosphate-buffered saline. The measurement of oxidized LDL used the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay(TBARS). TBARS were estimated on spectrophotometer at 532 nm and sample values were based on a liner regression of the standard curve(tetramethoxypropane). RESULTS: As the concentration of all of Siryungtang and Onbitang increased, TMP concentration inversely decreased. Siryungtang observed inhibitory effects on TMP from 50microgram/mL to 200microgram/mL and Onbitang from 100microgram/mL to 200microgram/mL. Antioxidant effect of Siryungtang was more excellent than that of Onbitang. CONCLUSION: Siryungtang and Onbitang inhibited oxidation of LDL. So, Siryungtang and Onbitang may attenuate the risk of atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis.

Inhibitory Effects of Siryungtang and Onbitang on Oxidation of Low Density Lipoprotein / 대한신장학회잡지

BACKGROUND: LDL deposition and local oxidation play a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis. Oxidation of LDL need to be catalyzed by copper or iron, whereas the antioxidants, such as probucol, superoxide dismutase, L-ascorbic acid, dehydro-L-ascorbic acid inhibit oxidation of LDL. Recently, the herbal medicines, such as Astragali Radix, Radix angelicae sinensis were shown to have inhibitory effects on lipid oxidation. So, we investigated the effects of Siryungtang and Onbitang on oxidation of LDL. METHODS: Siryungtang and Onbitang were selected. LDL was isolated from the plasma of normal volunteers by sequential ultracentrifugation by using potassium bromide(KBr) for density adjustment. The chemical oxidation of LDL was performed by the addition of 10micro-osmole CuSO4 in phosphate-buffered saline. The measurement of oxidized LDL used the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay(TBARS). TBARS were estimated on spectrophotometer at 532 nm and sample values were based on a liner regression of the standard curve(tetramethoxypropane). RESULTS: As the concentration of all of Siryungtang and Onbitang increased, TMP concentration inversely decreased. Siryungtang observed inhibitory effects on TMP from 50microgram/mL to 200microgram/mL and Onbitang from 100microgram/mL to 200microgram/mL. Antioxidant effect of Siryungtang was more excellent than that of Onbitang. CONCLUSION: Siryungtang and Onbitang inhibited oxidation of LDL. So, Siryungtang and Onbitang may attenuate the risk of atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis.

Changes of external ear resonance before and after surgery in chronic otitis media / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: External ear resonance (EER) can normally increase the sound pressure level at the tympanic membrane by as much as 20 dB at the frequency between 2 and 4 kHz. Perforation of tympanic membrane (TMP) may alter the resonance characteristics. Surgical modifications of the external auditory canal by tympanoplasty may also change the EER features. We aimed to analyze the EER of patients with the TMP before and after surgery. MATERIALS AND MEHTOD: This study comprised of 130 patients (135 ears) with chronic otitis media. We checked EERs before and after the surgery. The preoperative group was divided into two groups according to perforation size. Postoperatively, the EER was checked at 3, 6, 9, 12 months or after 15 months. We compared these data with the control group which comprised of 96 adult ears. RESULTS: In the preoperative group, the peak resonant gain and the frequency were not different from the control's and the peculiar negative peaks appeared around 1500 Hz in half of the cases. No significant differences were found in the first peak gains according to the perforation size. The negative peaks appeared deeper in the larger perforation group. After tympanoplasty, the gain markedly increased. As time passed, the gain tended to decrease, but did not equalize with the control's data. CONCLUSION: Additional gain should be considered in the frequency of around 1 kHz for hearing aid users with the TMP. We could expect alterations of EER after tympanoplasty, suggesting that these changes should be considered at the time of fitting hearing aids.

The Study on the Effects of Psoralen Derivatives on Epidermal Melanocytes in C57 BL Mice after Topical Photochemotherapy

BACKGROUND: Monofunctional psoralens plus UVA radiation are not severely phototoxic and have less mutagenic activity than bifunctional psoralens plus UVA radiation. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate pigment producing effect using various concentrations(0.02%, 0.1%, 0.5%) of monofunctional psoralens such as angelicin, khellin and comparing it's effect with TMP in topical photochemotherapy. METHOD: Ninty three C57BL mice were painted with either angelicin, khellin or TMP solution in concentrations of 0.02%, 0.1% and 0.5% each and were UVA irradiated. Skin biopsies were performed at 1,3,5 weeks after UVA irradiation. The pigment producing effects were measured by the number, area and perimeter of the melanocytes after topical PUVA. RESULTS: The comparison of melanocyte numbers between different psoralens after five weeks of photochemotherapy showed a significant difference in decreasing order of TMP, khellin and angelicin. The area and perimeter of melanocytes were larger in the TMP group after five weeks photochemotherapy than the other group. However in the khellin and angelicin group, the area and perimeter of melanocytes were not increased by increasing the frequency of the UVA irradiation. CONCLUSION: The number, area and perimeter of melanocytes after topical PUVA increased in the TMP group compared to angelicin or khellin group. We expect the clinical application of angelicin and khellin in vitiligo is possible considering the result of the study of pigment producing effect with a higher concentration and higher dose of UVA.

Allergic contact dermatitis due to 8-methoxypsoralen(8-MOP) / 대한피부과학회지

Allergic contact dermatitis due to 8-MOP is a rarely known si(ie effect of this widely used drug. Other known adverse reactions due to 8-MOP such as the oallergic dermatitis as well as some isolated cases of exanthema, papular eruptions, and astloma like symptoms are also sporadically reported. A 52-year-old man with vitiligo developed erythema to the UVA exposed 0.3% Oxoralen cream applied area. Prior to this episode, the patient had history of generalized burns after systernic PUVA therapy in 1983. Even after this experience, the patient had few more episodes of erythema at the site of 0.3%. Oxoralen cream application. We performed patch test and photopatch tests with Scandinavian series, 0.3% Oxoraler or am (as is), and diluted 8-MOP, 5-MOP, TMP solution. The result showed positive reactivity to 6-methylcoumarin, 8-MOP, as well as to 0.3% Oxoralen cream. The size of erythema was same in both irradiated areas which indicates an allergic contact dermatitis rather than photoallergic dermatitis or phototoxic dermatitis.

Studies on the Effects of Various Topical Phototoxic Drugs and UVA on Melanocytes of C57 BL Mice

One hundred sixteen C57 BL mice were painted with either 8-MOP, 5-MOP or TMP solution in concentrations of 0.02%, 0.1%, and 0.5% each and UVA irradiated. Skin biopsies were performed at 1, 3, 5 and 7 weeks after LJVA irradiation. The results measuring the number, area, and perimeter of the melanocytes after topical PLJVA were higher in the TMP-painted group than in the 8-MOP or 5-MOP painted groups. In all groups, the weekly changes showed an increasing value through five weeks. In comparing the drug concentrations used, 0.1% of chemicals produced the same or higher values than 0.5%. There have been few studies on the effects of 5-MOP in photochemotherapy. In tho study 5-MOP produced a pigment-producing effect similar to 8-MOP. Therefore, if topical PIJVA with 5-MOP is used in clinical practice, we could expect a significant therapeutic effect in vitiligo.