Monosodium L-glutamate-induced convulsions--II. Changes in catecholamine concentrations in various brain areas of adult rats

Norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) levels in various brain regions were measured in a model of experimentally produced convulsions by monosodium L-glutamate (MSG) administration to adult rats. Stress by injection of all solutions produced a 60% decrease in NE level in forebrain, recovering its basal value at 15 min after injection. A significant reduction of brain NE and DA levels of MSG-injected animals was found in the preconvulsive stage, particularly in the forebrain. No significant variations in catecholamine levels were seen in brain stem and cerebellum as a result of MSG injection. It is suggested that the changes found in endogenous catecholamine concentration in the forebrain may play a physiological role in the mechanisms of production of convulsions in the MSG model.     

Chronic noncommunicable cardiovascular and pulmonary disease in sub-Saharan Africa: an academic model for countering the epidemic

Noncommunicable diseases are rapidly overtaking infectious, perinatal, nutritional, and maternal diseases as the major causes of worldwide death and disability. It is estimated that, within the next 10 to 15 years, the increasing burden of chronic diseases and the aging of the population will expose the world to an unprecedented burden of chronic diseases. Preventing the potential ramifications of a worldwide epidemic of chronic noncommunicable diseases in a sustainable manner requires coordinated, collaborative efforts. Herein, we present our collaboration's strategic plan to understand, treat, and prevent chronic cardiovascular and pulmonary disease (CVPD) in western Kenya, which builds on a 2-decade partnership between academic universities in North America and Kenya, the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare. We emphasize the importance of training Kenyan clinician-investigators who will ultimately lead efforts in CVPD care, education, and research. This penultimate aim will be achieved by our 5 main goals. Our goals include creating an administrative core capable of managing operations, develop clinical and clinical research training curricula, enhancing existing technology infrastructure, and implementing relevant research programs. Leveraging a strong international academic partnership with respective expertise in cardiovascular medicine, pulmonary medicine, and medical informatics, we have undertaken to understand and counter CVPD in Kenya by addressing patient care, teaching, and clinical research.