Synthesis and anti-tuberculous activity of diesters based on isosteviol and dicarboxylic acids

Diesters based on isosteviol and dicarboxylic acids were synthesized and tested for antituberculous activity. Isosteviol and some of its derivatives exhibit appreciable tuberculostatic properties in vitro, the activity being dependent on the length of the polymethylene spacer connecting two ent-beyeran fragments. The mechanism of the antituberculous action of isosteviol derivatives are discussed. __________ Translated from Khimiko-Farmatsevticheskii Zhurnal, Vol. 40, No. 9, pp. 12–13, September, 2006.     

The effect of sodium nucleinate on the proliferative and specific activity of hybridoma cells in vitro]

Sodium nucleinate, an officinal preparation (Na PHK), added to the growth medium in concentrations of 10 to 50 micrograms/ml enhanced the growth of hybridoma cells in vitro. Na PHK presence in the cultivation medium in the above concentrations enhanced the specific antibody-producing activity of hybridomas.     

Gene expression of LDL receptor, HMG-CoA reductase, and cholesterol-7 alpha-hydroxylase in chronic renal failure

BACKGROUND: Chronic renal failure (CRF) is associated with an atherogenic lipid profile and an increased risk of ischaemic cardiovascular disease. The associated hyperlipidaemia is reportedly ameliorated by erythropoietin (Epo) therapy. According to a recent report, rats studied 3 weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy and fed a high- protein diet exhibited increased activities of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase (HMG-CoAR) and cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase (Ch-7 alpha- H), despite normal corresponding mRNA values. DESIGN AND METHODS: This study was designed to examine the effects of naturally progressing CRF of longer duration as well as those of Epo therapy on gene expressions of the key factors involved in hepatic cholesterol metabolism, i.e., LDL receptor (LDLR), HMG-CoAR, and Ch-7 alpha-H. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to the CRF group (5/6 nephrectomy), Epo-treated CRF group (given Epo 150 U/kg/twice weekly) and sham-operated, placebo- treated normal controls. They were allowed free access to regular rat chow and studied 6 weeks after surgery. Liver mRNAs and protein mass or activities of the above factors were studied. RESULTS: Plasma cholesterol concentration was significantly increased in the CRF group (P < 0.001) and was modestly lowered (P < 0.05) by Epo therapy. However, microsomal cholesterol concentration and LDLR, HMG-CoAR, and Ch-7 alpha-H mRNA as well as HMG-CoAR activity, and Ch-7 alpha-H and LDLR protein mass measurements were virtually identical in the three groups. Thus, hepatic LDLR, HMG-CoAR, and Ch-7 alpha-H mRNA and protein measurements in rats with CRF were similar to those of the normal control group representing an inappropriate response to the associated hypercholesterolemia. Epo therapy led to partial amelioration of CRF- associated hypercholesterolaemia with no discernible effect on hepatic tissue expression of the above factors.      

Characteristics of central and peripheral hemodynamics in infants with hemolytic disease of newborn]

Overall 82 full-term neonates (52 children with hemolytic disease and 30 healthy neonates) were examined. The general circulation was investigated over time (on days 1, 3.5-7 of life). Use was made of echocardiography and monitor studies of arterial pressure and heart rate; lability of arterial pressure and general peripheral vascular resistance were computed. As a result of the studies and correlations, it has been revealed that neonates with hemolytic disease manifest appreciable disorders of the cardiovascular system, correlating with the disease gravity. Earlier times of the closure of fetal communications were established as were the hyperkinetic type of +cardiac hemodynamics, arterial hypotension accompanied by arterial pressure instability and a decrease of the general peripheral vascular resistance which should be taken into consideration in choosing therapeutic measures.     

Vector electrocardiographic features in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

The examination indicated that abnormal Q and QS waves recorded along the azes Z and Y in the adjusted lead system far clearly reflected a predominant site of suspected focal and scarring lestoh in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) as in coronary heart disease (CHD) (the anterior site in the Z lead and inferior one, in the Y lead), however, the difference in their quantitative characteristics do not fulfil the goals of the electrocardiographic differentiation between HCM and CHD. To differentiate HCM and CHD in the presence of Q and QS waves, a characteristic complex of signs was identified: elevated waves Rx (greater than or equal to 17.5 mm), Sy (greater than or equal to 7.3 mm) of the total value, sigma Rxyz + sigma Sxyz (greater than or equal to 48.3 mm) at the anterior site of "scarring" myocardial lesion and increased waves Sz (greater than or equal to 20.4 mm), sigma Sxyz (greater than or equal to 21.4 mm) at the inferior site. Only "indirect" signs remained on VECG in the presence of scarring myocardial lesion concurrent with arterial hypertension in CHD patients.     

Oxygen-Dependent Processes in Monocytes and Metabolic Risk Factors for Atherogenesis

Oxygen-dependent processes in peripheral blood monocytes were intensified in patients with metabolic cardiovascular syndrome. This was manifested in increased production of O(2)(*-) and NO. Among metabolic factors (cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triacylglycerols, glucose, etc.), products of glycosylation (fructosamine) and plasma triacylglycerols were most potent in modulating generation of O(2)(*-) and NO by monocytes.     

Acilact and improvement of the health status of sickly children

A complex study of the effects of Acilact on the immune and interferon status, phagocyte defense, and cytokine balance in sickly children showed that Acilact had a positive effect on the immune system in these patients. The preparation is able to normalize abnormal immune parameters, and does not influence healthy immune system. In some ways Acilact has advantages over IRS 19 vaccine. Simultaneous administration of these two preparations is appropriate in some cases.