舒芬太尼后处理对犬心肌缺血/再灌注Bcl-2、Bax的影响及其与JAK2-STAT3信号通路的关系

目的 研究舒芬太尼后处理对心肌缺血/再灌注损伤(ischemiia/reperfusion injury,I/RI)细胞凋亡的影响以及与信号通路JAK2-STAT3的关系.方法 健康杂种家犬24只,体重10 kg～15 kg,按随机数字表法分为4组(每组6只):假手术组(Sham组,只穿线,不结扎),心肌缺血/再灌注(ischemia/reperfusion,I/R)组,舒芬太尼后处理组(SPO组,于再灌注前5min静脉注射舒芬太尼0.6 μg/kg),舒芬太尼后处理+AG490组(SPO+AG490组,于再灌注前5 min静脉注射l mg/kg AG490,特异性的JAK2抑制剂),除Sham组外,所有犬心脏都经历30 min缺血和120 min再灌注.再灌注120 min时,取各组缺血区心肌组织,采用末端脱氧核苷酸转移酶介导的dUTP原位切口末端标记(terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling,TUNEL)法测定心肌细胞的凋亡情况,免疫组化法测定各组Bcl-2、Bax以及磷酸化STAT3 (p-ATAT3)蛋白的表达,并计算Bcl-2和Bax表达的比值(Bcl-2/Bax).结果 再灌注120 min时,可在I/R组缺血区心肌组织中检测到大量凋亡心肌细胞(63.9±4.0)％,而舒芬太尼后处理显著降低心肌细胞凋亡指数(30.7±1.5)％;与Sham组比较,I/R组、SPO组和SPO+AG490组Bcl-2与Bax表达上调,I/R组Bcl-2/Bax比值降低,SPO组Bcl-2/Bax比值升高;舒芬太尼后处理使p-STAT3表达明显增加,特异性的阻断剂AG490抑制了舒芬太尼后处理对心肌I/RI凋亡的作用,即抑制p-STAT3表达的增加. 结论 舒芬太尼后处理对心肌I/RI细胞凋亡有一定的抑制作用,通过激活JAK2-STAT3信号转导通路上调Bcl-2蛋白和下调Bax蛋白来发挥作用.     

七氟醚后处理对大鼠心肌缺血再灌注时细胞凋亡的影响

目的 评价七氟醚后处理对大鼠心肌缺血再灌注时心肌细胞凋亡的影响.方法 健康雄性Wistar大鼠45只,体重250～ 280 g,采用随机数字表法,将大鼠随机分为3组(n=15):假手术组(S组)、心肌缺血再灌注组(I/R组)和七氟醚后处理组(Spo组).I/R组和Spo组采用结扎左冠状动脉前降支30 min时进行再灌注120 min的方法制备心肌缺血再灌注损伤模型,S组仅在左冠状动脉前降支下穿线.Spo组进行七氟醚后处理,于再灌注前1 min时吸八七氟醚,呼气末浓度2.5％,持续5min.于再灌注120 min时取左室心肌组织,测定缺血危险区和梗死区体积,计算缺血危险区和梗死区体积百分比.取左室缺血危险区心肌组织,测定心肌细胞凋亡指数,测定凋亡相关蛋白Bcl-2和Bax的蛋白及其mRNA的表达,计算Bcl-2/Bax比值.结果 与S组比较,I/R组心肌梗死区体积百分比和心肌细胞凋亡指数升高,Bcl-2、Bax蛋白及mRNA表达上调,Bcl-2/Bax比值降低(P＜0.05);与I/R组比较,Spo组心肌梗死区体积百分比和心肌细胞凋亡指数降低,Bax蛋白及mRNA表达下调,Bcl-2蛋白及mRNA表达上调,Bcl-2/Bax比值升高(P＜0.05).结论 七氟醚后处理通过上调Bcl-2表达,下调BBax表达,改善Bcl-2/Bax平衡,抑制心肌细胞凋亡,从而减轻大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤.     

不同阿片受体在舒芬太尼后处理减轻大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤中的作用

目的 探讨不同阿片受体在舒芬太尼后处理减轻大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤中的作用.方法 健康雄性SD大鼠50只,4～6月龄,体重200 ～ 330 g,采用随机数字表法,将其分为9组,缺血再灌注组(I/R组,n=7)采用结扎左冠状动脉前降支(LAD)30 min、再灌注120 min的方法制备大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤模型;缺血后处理组(IPC组,n=7)再灌注前行缺血后处理,进行3个循环的10 s开放LAD 10 s阻断LAD;舒芬太尼后处理组(SP组,n=6)于再灌注前5 min静脉注射舒芬太尼1μg/kg行舒芬太尼后处理;κ受体拮抗剂nor-binaltorphimne+舒芬太尼后处理组(BNI+ SP组,n=5)、δ受体拮抗剂纳曲吲哚+舒芬太尼后处理组(NTD+ SP组,n=5)和μ受体拮抗剂CTOP+舒芬太尼后处理组(CTOP+ SP组,n=5)于舒芬太尼后处理前分别静脉注射BNI 5 mg/kg、纳曲吲哚5 mg/kg和CTOP 1 mg/kg;BNI组、NTD组和CTOP组分别于再灌注前5 min时静脉注射相应剂量BNI、纳曲吲哚和CTOP.于再灌注120 min时采集颈总动脉血样,测定血浆cTnI浓度,处死大鼠后,取心脏,确定心肌梗死(IS)与缺血危险区(AAR)体积的比值(IS/AAR值).结果 与I/R组比较,IPC组、SP组、BNI+ SP组和NTD+ SP组血浆cTnI浓度和IS/AAR值降低(P＜0.05),CTOP+ SP组、NTD组、BNI组和CTOP组血浆cTnI浓度和IS/AAR值差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05);与SP组比较,BNI+ SP组和NTD+ SP组IS/AAR值升高,CTOP+ SP组血浆cTnI浓度和IS/AAR值升高(P＜0.05).结论 μκ和δ阿片受体均介导了舒芬太尼后处理减轻大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤.     

PI3K/Akt 信号通路在舒芬太尼后处理减轻在体大鼠心肌缺血-再灌注损伤中的作用

目的探讨PI3K/Akt信号通路在舒芬太尼后处理减轻在体大鼠心肌缺血-再灌注损伤时细胞凋亡中的作用。方法取90只健康成年雄性SD大鼠,采用随机数字表法分为五组:假手术组(Sham组),只穿线不结扎;缺血-再灌注组(IR组),结扎左冠状动脉前降支造成心肌缺血30min,再灌注120 min;舒芬太尼后处理组(Sufen组),在灌注即刻,给予舒芬太尼1.0μg/kg输注3min,再灌注处理同IR组;舒芬太尼后处理~+LY294002(PI3K抑制剂)组(SL组),再灌注前10min给予LY294002 0.3mg/kg,并行舒芬太尼后处理;LY294002组(IL组),再灌注前10 min给予LY294002 0.3mg/kg,再灌注120min。在缺血前即刻(T_0)、缺血30min(T_1)、再灌注60min(T_2)和再灌注120min(T_3)时记录HR和MAP;再灌注末,测定心肌梗死面积(IS/AAR);再灌注15 min时,采用Western blot法测定心肌组织总的Akt和磷酸化的Akt蛋白含量;在再灌注末,用RT_-PCR检测Bax和Bcl-2mRNA的表达。结果五组大鼠组间组内HR差异无统计学意义;T_2、T_3时IR组、SL组和IL组MAP明显低于Sham组(P0.05);Sufen组IS/AAR明显低于IR、SL和IL组(P0.05);五组心肌总的Akt蛋白含量表达差异无统计学意义;与Sufen组比较,sham、IR、SL和IL组磷酸化的Akt表达明显下调(P0.05),IR组、SL和IL组Bax mRNA的表达明显升高,Bcl-2mRAN的表达明显降低(P0.05)。结论舒芬太尼后处理可减轻心肌缺血-再灌注损伤,可能与激活PI3K/Akt信号通路,降低Bax和增加Bcl-2蛋白表达而达到抑制心肌细胞的凋亡有关。     

依托咪酯后处理对大鼠脑缺血再灌注时细胞凋亡的影响

目的 评价依托咪酯后处理对大鼠脑缺血再灌注时细胞凋亡的影响.方法 清洁级健康雄性SD大鼠32只,体重250～300 g,采用随机数字表法,将大鼠随机分为4组(n=8):假手术组(S组)、缺血再灌注组(I/R组)、脂肪乳组(L组)和依托咪酯后处理组(Ep组).采用栓塞右侧大脑中动脉2h恢复灌注的方法制备大鼠脑缺血再灌注模型.Ep组于再灌注即刻腹腔注射依托咪酯乳剂20 mg/kg(1 ml/100 g),I/R组和L组分别给予等容积生理盐水和脂肪乳.于再灌注24h时处死大鼠,取缺血侧脑组织,HE染色后光镜下观察病理学结果,采用TUNEL法检测凋亡细胞,计算凋亡指数,采用免疫组化染色法测定Bcl-2和Bax的表达,计算Bcl-2与Bax表达的比值(Bcl-2/Bax).结果 与S组比较,I/R组、L组和Ep组细胞凋亡指数升高,Bcl-2和Bax表达上调,Bcl-2/Bax升高(P＜0.05);与I/R组和L组比较,Ep组细胞凋亡指数降低,Bcl-2表达上调,Bax表达下调,Bcl-2/Bax升高(P＜ 0.05);I/R组和L组上述指标差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05).Ep组脑组织病理学损伤较I/R组明显减轻.结论 依托咪酯后处理减轻大鼠脑缺血再灌注损伤的机制与调节Bcl-2和Bax的平衡表达,抑制细胞凋亡有关.     

JAK2-STAT3通路在舒芬太尼后处理减轻犬心肌缺血再灌注损伤中的作用

目的 评价Janus激酶2-信号转导与转录激活子(JAK2- STAT3)通路在舒芬太尼后处理减轻犬心肌缺血再灌注损伤中的作用.方法 健康杂种家犬24只,雌雄不拘,体重10～15 kg,采用随机数字表法,将其随机分为4组(n=6):假手术组(S组);心肌缺血再灌注损伤组(I/R组),结扎左冠状动脉前降支30 min,再灌注120 min;舒芬太尼后处理组(PO组),再灌注前5min时经5 min静脉输注舒芬太尼0.6 μg/kg;舒芬太尼后处理+AG490组(AG组),再灌注前5min时静脉注射JAK2抑制剂AG490 1 mg/kg后经5 min静脉输注舒芬太尼0.6 μg/kg.于再灌注120 min时取缺血部位心肌标本,光镜下观察病理学结果,采用免疫组化法测定心肌细胞caspase-3和磷酸化STAT3(p- STAT3)的表达,采用TUNEL法测定心肌细胞凋亡指数.结果 与S组比较,I/R组、PO组和AG组心肌细胞凋亡指数、caspase-3及p-STAT3的表达均升高(P＜0.05);与I/R组比较,PO组和AG组心肌细胞凋亡指数和caspase-3表达降低,PO组p-STAT3表达升高,AG组p-STAT3表达降低(P＜0.05);与PO组比较,AG组心肌细胞凋亡指数和caspase-3表达升高,p-STAT3表达降低(P＜0.05).PO组心肌病理学损伤较I/R组和AG组减轻.结论 JAK2-STAT3通路参与了舒芬太尼后处理减轻犬心肌缺血再灌注损伤.     

瑞芬太尼对肝硬化大鼠肝脏缺血再灌注损伤的影响

目的 探讨瑞芬太尼对肝硬化大鼠肝脏缺血再灌注损伤的影响.方法 成年健康雄性SD大鼠30只,体重260～300 g,采用随机数字表法,将其随机分为3组(n=10):肝硬化组(C组)、肝硬化+肝缺血再灌注组(I/R组)和瑞芬太尼组(R组).C组、I/R组和R组采用四因素综合法制备大鼠肝硬化模型,I/R组和R组在肝硬化模型制备成功后1周制备大鼠70％肝脏缺血再灌注模型,R组于缺血前10 min开始静脉输注瑞芬太尼1μg·kg-1·min-至再灌注结束.于再灌注4h时取静脉血样和肝组织,测定血清ALT和AST活性、肝细胞Bcl-2和Bax表达及肝细胞凋亡情况,计算细胞凋亡指数,光镜下观察肝组织病理学结果.结果 与C组比较,I/R组血清ALT和AST的活性升高,肝细胞Bcl-2表达下调,Bax表达上调,细胞凋亡指数升高(P＜0.05);与I/R组比较,R组血清ALT和AST的活性降低,肝细胞Bcl-2表达上调,Bax表达下调,细胞凋亡指数降低(P＜0.05).R组肝组织病理学损伤轻于I/R组.结论 瑞芬太尼可减轻肝硬化大鼠肝脏缺血再灌注损伤,其机制与平衡肝细胞Bcl-2与Bax表达而抑制肝细胞凋亡有关.     

舒芬太尼预处理对肠缺血再灌注大鼠急性肺损伤的影响及阿片受体在其中的作用

目的 评价舒芬太尼预处理对肠缺血再灌注大鼠急性肺损伤的影响及阿片受体在其中的作用.方法 成年健康雄性Wistar大鼠48只,体重200 ～ 250 g,采用随机数字表法,将其随机分为6组(n=8):假手术组(S组)、肠缺血再灌注组(I/R组)、舒芬太尼预处理组(SPC组)、COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组和nor-BNI+ SPC组.I/R组、SPC组、COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组和nor-BNI+ SPC组采用夹闭肠系膜上动脉45 min,再灌注2h的方法制备肠缺血再灌注模型;S组仅分离肠系膜上动脉,不夹闭.SPC组、COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组和nor-BNI+ SPC组于缺血前10 min时静脉注射舒芬太尼10μg/kg;COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组于注射舒芬太尼前10 min时分别静脉注射μ受体拮抗剂COTP 1mg/kg或δ受体拮抗剂NTD 5 mg/kg; nor-BNI+ SPC组于注射舒芬太尼前15 min时静脉注射κ受体拮抗剂nor-BNI 5 mg/kg.于再灌注2h时处死大鼠,取肠组织,观察肠粘膜形态并进行肠粘膜损伤评分;取左肺组织,观察肺组织形态并进行肺损伤评分;采用TUNEL法检测肺组织细胞凋亡情况,计算凋亡指数;采用免疫组化法测定肺组织Bcl-2蛋白和Bax蛋白的表达,计算Bcl-2/Bax比值.结果 与S组比较,I/R组、SPC组、COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组和nor-BNI+ SPC组肠粘膜损伤评分、肺损伤评分和凋亡指数升高,Bcl-2蛋白和Bax蛋白表达上调,Bcl-2/Bax比值降低(P＜0.01);与I/R组比较,SPC组肠粘膜损伤评分、肺损伤评分和凋亡指数降低,Bcl-2蛋白表达上调,Bax蛋白表达下调,Bcl-2/Bax比值升高(P＜0.01);与SPC组比较,COTP+ SPC组、NTD+ SPC组和nor-BNI+ SPC组肠粘膜损伤评分、肺损伤评分和凋亡指数升高,Bcl-2蛋白表达下调,Bax表达蛋白表达上调,Bcl-2/Bax比值下降(P＜0.01).结论 舒芬太尼预处理可减轻肠缺血再灌注大鼠急性肺损伤,该作用与激活阿片受体有关.     

瑞芬太尼对大鼠肾缺血再灌注时细胞凋亡的影响

目的 评价瑞芬太尼对大鼠肾缺血再灌注时细胞凋亡的影响.方法 健康成年雄性SD大鼠75只,体重220～ 250 g,采用随机数字表法,将其分为3组(n=25)∶假手术组(S组)、肾缺血再灌注组(I/R组)和瑞芬太尼组(R组).I/R组和R组采用夹闭双侧肾动脉45 min时恢复灌注法建立肾缺血再灌注损伤模型.R组于缺血前15 min至再灌注30 min经尾静脉输注瑞芬太尼1.0μg· kg-1·min-1,S组和I/R组给予等容量生理盐水.于缺血前15 min(T0)、再灌注3 h(T1)、6 h(T2)、12h(T3)及24 h(T4)时取肾组织标本.采用流式细胞术检测肾细胞凋亡率及Bax、Bcl-2蛋白表达,采用RT-PCR检测Bax和Bcl-2的mRNA表达,计算Bcl-2/Bax蛋白及mRNA表达比值,采用Paller法行肾小管损伤评分.结果 与S组比较,I/R组和R组T1-4时肾小管损伤评分和肾细胞凋亡率升高,Bcl-2/Bax蛋白及mRNA表达比值T12时升高,T3,4时降低(P＜0.01);与I/R组比较,R组T1-4时肾小管损伤评分和肾细胞凋亡率降低,Bcl-2/Bax蛋白及mRNA表达比值升高(P＜0.05或0.01);与T0时比较,I/R组和R组T1-4时肾小管损伤评分和肾细胞凋亡率升高,Bcl-2/Bax蛋白及mRNA表达比值T1,2时升高,T3,4时降低(P＜0.01).结论 瑞芬太尼减轻大鼠肾缺血再灌注损伤的机制与其调节Bcl-2/Bax蛋白表达,抑制肾组织细胞凋亡有关.     

舒芬太尼后处理和七氟醚后处理对大鼠离体心脏缺血再灌注损伤的影响

目的 评价舒芬太尼后处理和七氟醚后处理对大鼠离体心脏缺血再灌注损伤的影响.方法 雄性SD大鼠,体重230～250 g,成功制备Langendorff离体灌注模型的40个心脏随机分为4组(n=10):缺血再灌注组(Ⅰ组)、七氟醚后处理组(Ⅱ组)、舒芬太尼后处理组(Ⅲ组)和七氟醚联合舒芬太尼后处理组(Ⅳ组).采用K-H液平衡灌注(灌注压10 kPa)30 min,全心缺血40 min再灌注120 min.再灌注即刻时Ⅱ组、Ⅲ组和Ⅳ组进行药物后处理15 min:Ⅱ组K-H液中通入3.0%七氟醚,Ⅲ组K-H液中加入100 nmol/L舒芬太尼,Ⅳ组同时进行七氟醚后处理和舒芬太尼后处理.分别于平衡灌注末(基础状态)、再灌注15 min、30 min、60 min、90 min、120 min时记录左室收缩压(LVSP)、左室舒张末压(LVEDP)、左室发展压(LVDP)、左室内压上升最大速率(+dp/dtmax)、左室内压下降最大速率(-dp/dtmax)、心率(HR)和灌脉流量(CF).再灌注5 min时,收集冠脉流出液,测定肌酸激酶(CK)和乳酸脱氢酶(LDH)的活性.再灌注120 min时取心肌组织,测定心肌梗死体积、Bcl-2和Bax的表达水平,并计算Bcl-2和Bax表达的比值(Bcl-2/Bax).结果 与Ⅰ组比较,Ⅱ组、Ⅲ组和Ⅳ组LVSP、LVDP、+dp/dtmax、-dp/dtmax和CF升高,LVEDP和LDH、CK的活性降低,心肌梗死体积缩小,Bcl-2表达上调,Bax表达下调,Bcl-2/Bax升高(P＜0.05或0.01);Ⅱ组、Ⅲ组和Ⅳ组间上述指标差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05).结论 舒芬太尼后处理可减轻大鼠心肌缺血再灌注损伤,联合七氟醚后处理时心肌保护作用并未增加,其心肌保护的机制与上调Bcl-2表达、下调Bax表达从而抑制细胞凋亡有关.     

Vasopressor hormone response following mesenteric traction during major abdominal surgery

Background : We investigated the vasopressor hormone response following mesenteric traction (MT) with hypotension due to prostacyclin (PGI₂) release in patients undergoing abdominal surgery with a combined general and epidural anesthesia. Methods : In a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study we administered 400 mg ibuprofen (i.v.) in 42 patients scheduled for abdominal surgery. General anesthesia was combined with epidural anesthesia (T4-L1). Before as well as 5, 15, 30, 45, and 90 min after MT we recorded plasma osmolality, hemodynamics and measured 6-keto-PGFlα (stabile metabolite of PGI₂), TXB₂ (stabile metabolite of thromboxane A₂) active renin, and arginine vasopressin (AVP) plasma concentrations by radioimmunoassay. Catecholamine levels were assessed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection. Results : Following MT, arterial hypotension occurred along with a substantial PGI₂ release. This was completely abolished by ibuprofen administration. Although plasma levels of 6-keto-PGF_1α (1133 (708) vs. 60 (3) ng/L, median (median absolute deviation), P=0.0001, placebo vs. ibuprofen) remained significantly elevated, blood pressure was restored within 30 min after MT in the placebo group. At the same point in time plasma concentrations of TXB² (164 (87) vs. 58 (1) ng/L, P=0.0001), epinephrine (46 (33) vs. 14 (6) ng/L, P=0.001), AVP (41 ± (18) vs. 12 (7) ng/L, P=0.0004), and active renin (27 (12) vs. 12 (4) ng/L, P = 0.001) were significantly higher in placebo-treated patients. Conclusion : Under combined general and epidural anesthesia arterial hypotension following MT due to endogenous PGI₂ release is associated with enhanced release of AVP, active renin, epinephrine and thromboxane A₂, presumably contributing to hemodynamic stability within 30 min after MT.     

A Teaspoon Pump for Pumping Blood with High Hydraulic Efficiency and Low Hemolysis Potential

Abstract: Virtually all blood pumps contain some kind of rubbing, sliding, closely moving machinery surfaces that are exposed to the blood being pumped. These valves, internal bearings, magnetic bearing position sensors, and shaft seals cause most of the problems with blood pumps. The original teaspoon pump design prevented the rubbing, sliding machinery surfaces from contacting the blood. However, the hydraulic efficiency was low because the blood was able to "slip around" the rotating impeller so that the blood itself never rotated fast enough to develop adequate pressure. An improved teaspoon blood pump has been designed and tested and has shown acceptable hydraulic performance and low hemolysis potential. The new pump uses a nonrotating "swinging" hose as the pump impeller. The fluid enters the pump through the center of the swinging hose; therefore, there can be no fluid slip between the revolving blood and the revolving impeller. The new pump uses an impeller that is comparable to a flexible garden hose. If the free end of the hose were swung around in a circle like half of a jump rope, the fluid inside the hose would rotate and develop pressure even though the hose impeller itself did not "rotate"; therefore, no rotating shaft seal or internal bearings are required.     

A comparison of the inhibitory effects of four volatile anaesthetics on the metabolism of chlorzoxazone, a substrate for CYP2E1, in rabbits

Background: Halothane inhibits in vitro and in vivo activity of cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 2E1. There are several fluorinated volatile anaesthetics besides halothane, and most of them are defluorinated by CYP2E1. It is unclear whether other fluorinated anaesthetics inhibit the in vivo activity of CYP2E1.
Methods: We compared the inhibitory effects of therapeutic concentrations of four inhalational anaesthetics, halothane, enflurane, isoflurane, and sevoflurane, on chlorzoxazone metabolism in rabbits receiving artificial ventilation.
Results: All four inhalational anaesthetics decreased arterial blood pressure and increased plasma chlorzoxazone concentration. However, no significant differences in the plasma chlorzoxazone concentration were found between the four anaesthetics. The estimated chlorzoxazone clearance increased after beginning inhalation with all four agents, but no significant difference in clearance was noted between agents.
Conclusions: At therapeutic concentrations, the in vivo inhibitory effect on chlorzoxazone metabolism was similar for all four inhalational anaesthetics examined, even though their chemical characteristics and extent of hepatic metabolism differ considerably.     

Microspheres Based Detoxification System: A New Method in Convective Blood Purification

Abstract: A variety of protein-bound or hydrophobic substances, accumulating as a result of pathologic conditions such as exogenous or endogenous intoxications, are removed poorly by conventional detoxification methods because of low accessibility (hemodialysis), insufficient adsorption capabilities (hemosorption), low efficiency (peritoneal dialysis), or economic limitations (high-volume plasmapheresis). Combining advantages of existing methods with microspheric technology, a module-based system was designed. Major operating parameters of the latter can be modified to allow for adjustment to individual clinical situations. An extracorporeal blood circuit including a plasmafilter is combined with a secondary high-velocity plasma circuit driven by a centrifugal pump. Different microspheric adsorbers can be combined in one circuit or applied in sequence. Thus, a prolonged treatment can be tailored using specially designed selective adsorber materials. Comparing this system with existing methods (high-flux hemodialysis, molecular adsorbent recycling system), results from our in vitro studies and animal experiments demonstrate the superior efficiency of substance removal.     

Tissue perfusion in relation to cardiac output during continuous positive-pressure ventilation and administration of propranolol or verapamil

Background : Our objective was to determine whether administration of propranolol or verapamil modifies the hemodynamic adaptation to continuous positive-pressure ventilation (CPPV), in particular the regional distribution of cardiac output (CO).
Methods : General hemodynamics and regional blood flows assessed by microsphere technique (15 (μm) were recorded in 16 anesthetized pigs during spontaneous breathing (SB) and CPPV with 8 cm H₂O end-expiratory pressure (CPPV8) before and after intravenous administration of propranolol (0.3 mg · kg⁻¹ followed by 0.15 mg · kg⁻¹ · h⁻¹, n=8) or verapamil (0.1 mg · kg⁻¹ followed by 0.3 mg · kg⁻¹ · h⁻¹, n=8).
Results : CPPV8 depressed CO by 25% without shifts in its relative distribution with the exception of a noteworthy increase in adrenal perfusion. Propranolol increased arterial blood pressure, and due to a fall in heart rate, CO dropped by 25%. The kidneys and, to a lesser extent, the splanchic region and central nervous system received increased fractions of the remaining CO at the expense of skeletal muscle flow. Similar patterns were seen during SB and CPPV8 such that the combination of propranolol and CPPV8 depressed CO by 50%. The circulatory effects of verapamil were less evident but myocardial perfusion tended to increase.
Conclusions : The combination of propranolol or verapamil with CPPV does not result in any specific hemodynamic interaction in anesthetized pigs, except that the combined effect of propranolol and CPPV may severely reduce CO.     

Bariatric Surgery in Some "Central and East-European (former Eastern bloc)"Countries - Current Status and Prediction for the Next Millennium

Background: Obesity is increasing globallly, including in the formerly "Eastern Bloc" countries. Methods: A survey was made of obesity and bariatric surgery. Results: In the 8 East and Central European countries studied, with total population 300 million, roughly 43% of the population was overweight (BMI 25-30), 23% obese (BMI > 30), with about 15 million people morbidly obese (BMI > 40). From 0-10 morbidly obese individuals/100,000/year undergo bariatric surgery. Conclusion: Most countries were found to provide inadequate treatment for obesity.The majority of the morbidly obese are not treated effectively. However, health-care awareness of obesity and bariatric surgeons are slowly increasing.     

Volatile anaesthetics reduce adhesion of blood platelets under low-flow conditions in the coronary system of isolated guinea pig hearts

Background : Inhibitory effects of volatile anaesthetics on platelet aggregation have been demonstrated in several studies. However, the influence of volatile anaesthetics on intracoronary platelet adhesion has not been elucidated so far.
Methods : Isolated hearts of guinea pigs were perfused with buffer in the absence or presence of volatile anaesthetics (0.5 and 1 MAC) at constant coronary flow rates of 5 ml/min for 25 min, then 1 ml/min for 30 min and again 5 ml/min for 10 min. Before, during and after low-flow perfusion, a bolus of human platelets was applied into the coronary system. To simulate thrombogenic conditions, 0.3 U/ml human thrombin was infused during low-flow perfusion and reperfusion. The number of platelets sequestered to the endothelium was calculated from the difference between coronary in- and output of platelets. The myocardial production of lactate and consumption of pyruvate and coronary perfusion pressure were also determined.
Results : At a flow rate of 5 ml/min only about 3% of the applied platelets did not emerge from the coronary system, in any group. In contrast, 13.1±1.2% (mean±SEM) of infused platelets became adherent in low-flow perfusion in the control group without anaesthetic. The adherence was reduced with each 1 MAC isoflurane (to 6.2±1.2%), sevoflurane (to 4.4±0.9%) or halothane (to 3.2±1.5%) (each P <0.05 vs. control). Volatile anaesthetic, 0.5 MAC, did not inhibit platelet adhesion to a statistically significant extent in any case. Perfusion pressure and metabolic parameters were not statistically different between the control and the hearts exposed to anaesthetics.
Conclusion : Volatile anaesthetics in a concentration of 1 MAC can reduce the adhesion of platelets in the coronary system under reduced flow conditions. This action does not arise from vasodilation or inhibition of ischaemic stress.     

Synergistic interaction between the effects of propofol and midazolam with fentanyl on phrenic nerve activity in rabbits

Background: It has been shown that the depressive effects of both propofol and midazolam on consciousness are synergistic with opioids, but the nature of their interactions on other physiological systems, e. g. respiration, has not been fully investigated. The present study examined the effect of propofol and midazolam alone and in combination with fentanyl on phrenic nerve activity (PNA) and whether such interactions are additive or synergistic. Methods: PNA was recorded in 27 anaesthetised and artificially ventilated rabbits. In three groups, propofol, fentanyl and midazolam were administered intravenously in incremental doses to construct dose-response curves for the depressant effects of each one on PNA. In another two groups, the effect of pretreatment with either fentanyl 1 μg · kg^?1 i. v. or midazolam 0.05 mg · kg^?1 i. v. on the effects of propofol and fentanyl respectively on PNA were studied. Results: Propofol and fentanyl caused a dose-dependent depression of PNA with complete abolition at the highest total doses of 16 mg · kg^?1 i. v. and 32 μg · kg^?1 i. v., respectively. In contrast, midazolam in incremental doses to a total of 0.8 mg · kg^?1 reduced mean PNA by 63%, but approximately 12% of PNA remained at a total dose as high as 6.4 mg · kg^?1. The mean ED₅₀s, calculated from dose-response curves, were 5.4 mg · kg^?1, 3.9 μg · kg^?1 and 0.4 mg · kg^?1 for propofol, fentanyl and midazolam, respectively. Initial doses of either fentanyl 1 μg · kg^?1 i. v. or midazolam 0.05 mg · kg^?1 i. v. acted synergistically with subsequent doses of either propofol or fentanyl to abolish PNA at total doses of 8 mg · kg^?1 and 8 μg · kg^?1, respectively. Conclusion: Fentanyl has a synergistic interaction with both propofol and midazolam on PNA and hence potentially on respiration.     

Influence of dopexamine hydrochloride on haemodynamics and regulators of circulation in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery

Background: Catecholaminergic support is often used to improve haemodynamics in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. Dopexamine is a synthetic vasoactive catecholamine with beneficial microcirculatory properties. Methods: The influence of perioperative administration of dopexamine on cardiorespiratory data and important regulators of macro- and microcirculation were studied in 30 patients undergoing Whipple pancreaticduodenectomy. The patients received randomized and blinded either 2 μg · kg^?1 · min^?1 of dopexamine (n=15) or placebo (n=15, control group). The infusion was started after induction of anaesthesia and continued until the morning of the first postoperative day. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), vasopressin, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), and catecholamine plasma levels were measured from arterial blood samples. Measurements were carried out after induction of anaesthesia, 2 h after onset of surgery, at the end of surgery, 2 h after surgery, and on the morning of the first postoperative day. Results: Cardiac index (CI) increased significantly in the dopexamine group (from 2.61±0.41 to 4.57±0.78 1 · min^?1 · m^?2) and remained elevated until the morning of the first postoperative day. Oxygen delivery index (DO₂I) and oxygen consumption index (VO₂I) were also significantly increased in the dopexamine group (DO₂I: from 416±91 to 717±110 ml/m² · m²; VO₂I: from 98±25 to 157±22 ml/m² · m²), being significantly higher than in the control group. pHi remained stable only in the dopexamine patients, indicating adequate splanchnic perfusion. Vasopressive regulators of circulation increased significantly only in the untreated control patients (vasopressin: from 4.37±1.1 to 35.9±12.1 pg/ml; ET-1: from 2.88±0.91 to 6.91±1.20 pg/ml). Conclusion: Patients undergoing major abdominal surgery may profit from prophylactic perioperative administration of dopexamine hydrochloride in the form of improved haemodynamics and oxygenation as well as beneficial influence on important regulators of organ blood flow.     

Systemic analgesia adapted to the children's condition

A concept of balanced analgesia using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), paracetamol (acetaminophen), opioids, and corticosteroids can also be used in patients with pre-existing illnesses. NSAIDs are the most effective treatment for acute pain of moderate intensity in children; however, these drugs should be avoided in patients at increased risk for serious side effects, e.g. patients with renal impairment, bleeding tendency, or extreme prematurity. NSAIDs can be given with minimal risks to the younger child with mild to moderate asthma, and, in these patients, the use of steroids can be encouraged; in addition to their antiemetic and analgesic action, a beneficial effect on asthma symptoms can be expected. In the non-intubated child with cerebral trauma, exaggerated sedation caused by opioids and increased bleeding tendency caused by NSAIDs must be avoided. In neonates and small infants, the oral administration of sucrose or glucose is helpful to minimize pain reaction during short uncomfortable interventions.