Objective To compare the different effects of endothelia progenitor cells （ EPCs ） or basic fibroblast growth factor （b-FGF） intromyocardial infusion on cardiac function and neovascularization for dilated cardiomy...Objective To compare the different effects of endothelia progenitor cells （ EPCs ） or basic fibroblast growth factor （b-FGF） intromyocardial infusion on cardiac function and neovascularization for dilated cardiomyopathy（ DCM） rats. Methods Fifty adult female rats received inguinal subcutaneous injections of isoproterenol （ISO, 250 mg/kg） for induction of DCM. Four weeks later, the model rats were randomly divided into EPCs group, b-FGF group and control group. The 2×106 EPCs （ resolved in 100 μL PBS） , 100 μL b-FGF （ lO0 μg/mL ） and 100 μL PBS were evenly transplanted into the myocardium of EPCs group, b-FGF group and control group, respectively. Three months later, echocardiographic examination and regional myocardial blood flow （RMBF） measurement were performed. EPCs were traced by fluorescence in situ hybridization （FISH）. The protein and mRNA expression of b-FGF in each group was measured by ELISA assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction （ RT-PCR ） . Results Three months after transplantation, sry positive cells were detected only in EPCs group. The cardiac function as well as RMBF was significantly improved in EPCs group compared with b-FGF group or control group. There was higher capillary density in EPCs group. The protein and mRNA expression of b-FGF was stronger than b-FGF group and control group. Conclusion Transplantation of EPCs can improve cardiac function, induce neovascularization and increase RMBF for DCM rats. The treatment with EPCs has better effect than administration of b-FGF alone.展开更多
Heart failure （HF） with preserved ejection fraction （HFpEF） is the most common form of HF in older adults, and is increasing in preva- lence as the population ages. Furthermore, HFpEF is increasing out of proporti...Heart failure （HF） with preserved ejection fraction （HFpEF） is the most common form of HF in older adults, and is increasing in preva- lence as the population ages. Furthermore, HFpEF is increasing out of proportion to HF with reduced EF （HFrEF）, and its prognosis is worsening while that of HFrEF is improving. Despite the importance of HFpEF, our understanding of its pathophysiology is incomplete, and optimal treatment remains largely undefined. A cardinal feature of HFpEF is reduced exercise tolerance, which correlates with symptoms as well as reduced quality of life. The traditional concepts of exercise limitations have focused on central dysfimction related to poor cardiac pump function. However, the mechanisms are not exclusive to the heart and lungs, and the understanding of the pathophysiology of this dis- ease has evolved. Substantial attention has focused on defining the central versus peripheral mechanisms underlying the reduced functional capacity and exercise tolerance among patients with HF. In fact, physical training can improve exercise tolerance via peripheral adaptive mechanisms even in the absence of favorable central hemodynamic function. In addition, the drug trials performed to date in HFpEF that have focused on influencing cardiovascular function have not improved exercise capacity. This suggests that peripheral limitations may play a significant role in HF limiting exercise tolerance, a hallmark feature of HFpEF.展开更多
The roles of androgens on cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology are controversial as both beneficial and detrimental effects have been reported. Although the reasons for this discrepancy are unclear, multiple ...The roles of androgens on cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology are controversial as both beneficial and detrimental effects have been reported. Although the reasons for this discrepancy are unclear, multiple factors such as genetic and epigenetic variation, sex-specificity, hormone interactions, drug preparation and route of administration may contribute. Recently, growing evidence suggests that androgens exhibit beneficial effects on cardiovascular function though the mechanism remains to be elucidated. Endothelial cells （ECs） which line the interior surface of blood vessels are distributed throughout the circulatory system, and play a crucial role in cardiovascular function. Endothelial progenitor cells （EPCs） are considered an indispensable element for the reconstitution and maintenance of an intact endothelial layer. Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an initiating step in development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The modulation of endothelial functions by androgens through either genornic or nongenomic signal pathways is one possible mechanism by which androgens act on the cardiovascular system. Obtaining insight into the mechanisms by which androgens affect EC and EPC functions will allow us to determine whether androgens possess beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. This in turn may be critical in the prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. This article seeks to review recent progress in androgen regulation of endothelial function, the sex-specificity of androgen actions, and its clinical applications in the cardiovascular system.展开更多
Several studies have demonstrated that the outcome of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection is profoundly influenced by a variety of comorbidities. Many of these comorbidities have a significant influence on the respons...Several studies have demonstrated that the outcome of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection is profoundly influenced by a variety of comorbidities. Many of these comorbidities have a significant influence on the response to antiviral therapy. These comorbidities negatively affect the course and outcome of liver disease, often reducing the chance of achieving a sustained virological response with PEGylated interferon and ribavirin treatments. Comorbidities affecting response to antiviral therapy reduce compliance and adherence to inadequate doses of therapy. The most important comorbidities affecting the course of CHC include hepatitis B virus coinfection, metabolic syndrome, and intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Comorbidities affecting the course and response to therapy include schistosomiasis, iron overload, alcohol abuse, and excessive smoking. Comorbidities affecting response to antiviral therapy include depression, anemia, cardiovascular disease, and renal failure.展开更多
1 Introduction Hypertension and cerebrovascular disease incidence and prevalence rise dramatically with age, owing to longer exposure time to age-associated alterations in vascular function and structure and cardiova...1 Introduction Hypertension and cerebrovascular disease incidence and prevalence rise dramatically with age, owing to longer exposure time to age-associated alterations in vascular function and structure and cardiovascular risk factors. This chapter is aimed at connecting age-related alterations in vascular function and structure to the resultant target organ damage, and to raise awareness of unique presentations and treatment strategies for hypertension and stroke in older adults.展开更多
Using 3 non-invasive tests, abnormalities of cardiovascular reflex function were found in 7 of 15 patients with achalasia. Abnormalities of heart rate responses to the Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, and standing w...Using 3 non-invasive tests, abnormalities of cardiovascular reflex function were found in 7 of 15 patients with achalasia. Abnormalities of heart rate responses to the Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, and standing were noted in patients with autonomic neuropathy defect. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that an abnormality of vagal function may contribute to the pathogenesis of achalasia.展开更多
Objective To examine associations between cardiovascular system medication use with cognition function and diagnosis of dementia in older adults living in nursing homes in Australia. Methods As part of a cross-section...Objective To examine associations between cardiovascular system medication use with cognition function and diagnosis of dementia in older adults living in nursing homes in Australia. Methods As part of a cross-sectional study of 17 Australian nursing homes examining quality of life and resource use, we examined the association between cognitive impairment and cardiovascular medication use （identified using the Anatomical Therapeutic Classification System） using general linear regression and logistic regression models. People who were receiving end of life care were excluded. Results Participants included 541 residents with a mean age of 85.5 years （± 8.5）, a mean Psychogeriatric Assessment Scale–Cognitive Impairment （PAS-Cog） score of 13.3 （± 7.7）, a prevalence of cardiovascular diseases of 44% and of hypertension of 47%. Sixty-four percent of participants had been diagnosed with dementia and 72% had received cardiovascular system medications within the previous 12 months. Regression models demonstrated the use of cardiovascular medications was associated with lower （better） PAS-Cog scores [Coefficient （β） = -3.7; 95% CI： -5.2 to -2.2; P 〈 0.0001] and a lower probability of a dementia diagnosis （OR = 0.44; 95% CI： 0.26 to 0.75, P = 0.0022）. Analysis by subgroups of medications showed cardiac therapy medications （C01）, beta blocking agents （C07）, and renin-angiotensin system agents （C09） were associated with lower PAS-Cog scores （better cognition） and lower dementia diagnosis probability. Conclusions This analysis has demonstrated an association between greater cardiovascular system medication use and better cognitive status among older adults living in nursing homes. In this population, there may be differential access to health care and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors. This association warrants further investigation in large cohort studies.展开更多
Hypertension is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity around the world and,prevalence of hypertension is increasing with aging.Hypertension in the elderly is associated with increased occurrence rates of sodium s...Hypertension is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity around the world and,prevalence of hypertension is increasing with aging.Hypertension in the elderly is associated with increased occurrence rates of sodium sensitivity,isolated systolic hypertension,and ＇white coat effect＇.Arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction also increase with age.These factors should be considered in selecting antihypertensive therapy.The prime objective of this therapy is to prevent stroke.The fmdings of controlled trials show that there should be no cut-off age for treatment.A holistic program for controlling cardiovascular risks should be fully discussed with the patient,including evaluation to exclude underlying causes of secondary hypertension,and implementation of lifestyle measures.The choice of antihypertensive drug therapy is influenced by concomitant disease and previous medication history,but will typically include a thiazide diuretic as the first-line agent;to this will be added an angiotensin inhibitor and/or a calcium channel blocker.Beta blockers are not generally recommended,in part because they do not combat the effects of increased arterial stiffness.The hypertension-hypoten-sion syndrome requires case-specific management.Drug-resistant hypertension is important to differentiate from faulty compliance with medication.Patients resistant to the third-line drug therapy may benefit from treatment with extended-release isosorbide mononitrate.A trial of spironolactone may also be worthwhile.展开更多
The tumor suppressor p53 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers. MicroRNAs （miRNAs） are small non-protein coding RNAs that regulate gene expression on the post-transcriptional level. Recently, ...The tumor suppressor p53 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers. MicroRNAs （miRNAs） are small non-protein coding RNAs that regulate gene expression on the post-transcriptional level. Recently, it was shown that p53 regulates the expression of several miRNAs, thereby representing an important mechanism of p53 signaling. Several independent studies identified the members of the miR-34 family as the most prevalent p53-induced miRNAs, miR-34s are frequently silenced in variety of tumor entities, suggesting that they are important tumor suppressors. Indeed, ectopic expression of miR-34s inhibits proliferation, epithelial to mes- enchymat transition, migration, invasion, and metastasis of various cancer celt entities. Moreover, delivery or re-expression of miR-34 leads to notable repression of tumor growth and metastasis in cancer mouse models, and may therefore represent an efficient strategy for future cancer therapeutics. Besides their crucial functions in cancer, members of the miR-34 family also play important roles in spermatogenesis, stem cell differentiation, neuronal development, aging, and cardiovascular functions. Consequently, miR-34 has also been implicated in various non-cancerous diseases, such as brain disorders, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular complications.展开更多
The pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome（IBS） is complex and not fully understood, so the aim of this study was to evaluate whether visceral and somatic hypersensitivity, autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction,...The pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome（IBS） is complex and not fully understood, so the aim of this study was to evaluate whether visceral and somatic hypersensitivity, autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction, and low-grade inflammation of the gut wall are associated with diarrhea-predominant IBS（D-IBS）. Sixty-two patients with D-IBS and 20 control subjects participated in the study. Using the ascending method of limits（AML） protocol, we demonstrated that D-IBS patients had significantly lower sensory thresholds compared with healthy controls（P〈0.001）. Using diverse methods, especially the ischemic sensitivity test, for the first time in China, we confirmed that D-IBS patients have somatic hypersensitivity. They had a significantly higher systolic blood pressure and heart rate after a cold stimulus, indicative of autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction. Compared with the control group, D-IBS patients had a significantly higher level of calprotectin（P〈0.001）. We also found significant correlations between visceral and somatic hypersensitivity, visceral hypersensitivity and autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction, and somatic hypersensitivity and autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction. Our findings may provide valuable suggestions for the treatment of D-IBS.展开更多
Objective:To observe effects of Liandou Qingmai Recipe(连豆清脉方) on endothelin-1(ET-1),nitric oxide(NO),interleukin-6(IL-6) and IL-10 levels in patients with coronary heart disease.Methods:Total 101 cases with coron...Objective:To observe effects of Liandou Qingmai Recipe(连豆清脉方) on endothelin-1(ET-1),nitric oxide(NO),interleukin-6(IL-6) and IL-10 levels in patients with coronary heart disease.Methods:Total 101 cases with coronary heart disease were randomly divided into a treatment group(n=45) treated by Liandou Qingmai Recipe and a standard treatment group(control group,n=56),with a normal group of 16 health persons set up.Changes of ET-1,NO,IL-6 and IL-10 levels were measured before treatment and after treatment for two weeks.And the data were analyzed by SPSS 16.0 statistic software.Results:Before treatment,the levels of ET-1,IL-6 and IL-10 levels were significantly higher and NO was significantly lower in the patients with coronary heart disease than those in the normal group(90.7±12.7 ng/L vs 41.8±13.5 ng/L,9.17±0.18 ng/L vs 1.10±0.08 ng/L,1.94±0.26 ng/L vs 1.09±0.06 ng/L,and 92.2±17.7 μmol/L vs 124.5±27.2 μmol/L;all P<0.05),with no significant differences in the levels of ET-1,NO,IL-6 and IL-10 between the treatment group and the control group(P>0.05);After treatment,ET-1 and IL-6 significantly decreased in the treatment group and the control group,and NO increased in the treatment group;And IL-6 level was significantly lower and NO level was higher in the treatment group than those in the control group(4.48±1.22 ng/L vs 5.13±1.85 ng/L,117.4±22.3 μmol/L vs 92.4±17.1 μmol/L;both P<0.05);There was a positive correlation between IL-6 and IL-10,and a negative correlation between NO and IL-10(r=0.142,r=-0.152;both P<0.05).Conclusion:Liandou Qingmai Recipe can decline IL-6,IL-10 and ET-1 levels,and raise NO level in patients with coronary heart disease on the basis of standard treatment,so as to inhibit endothelial inflammatory response,improve vascular endothelial function,with stronger anti-AS action;And vascular endothelial lesion is related with inflammatory response.展开更多
Salusins are regulatory peptides that affect cardiovascular function. We previously reported that salusin-a and -β protected cultured cardiomyocytes from serum deprivation-induced cell death through upregulating gluc...Salusins are regulatory peptides that affect cardiovascular function. We previously reported that salusin-a and -β protected cultured cardiomyocytes from serum deprivation-induced cell death through upregulating glucose-regulated protein 78 （GRP78）, an endoplasmic reticulum （ER） resident protein whose overexpression acts as a marker and suppressor of ER stress. The present study examined whether salusin-α and -β inhibit ER stress in ischemic myocardium. In a rat model of myocardial infarction created by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery （LAD）, salusin-α or -β was intravenously injected at 5 or 15 nmol kg-1 15 min prior to 2 h of LAD occlusion. The high dose of salusin-α and -β3 significantly improved heart function and hemodynamics in LAD-occluded rats, but had no effects in sham-operated rats. The arrhythmias caused by LAD oc- clusion were markedly attenuated by salusin-α and -β. The apoptotic rate in ischemic myocardium was reduced from 31.5%±3.7% to 19.8%±2.2% and 12.3%±2.2%, and the infarct size was reduced from 53.4%±4.0% of the risk area to 26.5%±9.7% and 23.7%±8.9% by 15 nmol kg-1 salusin-α and -β, respectively. Furthermore, salusin-α and -β prevented the ac- tivation of GRP78 and ER stress-specific apoptotic effectors caspase-12 and CHOP （C/EBP homologous protein）, and attenu- ated the reduction of an ER stress-associated antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 in ischemic cardiac tissue. The salusins also inhibited the ER stress induced by tunicamycin in cultured rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes. These results indicate that salusins protect myo- cardium against ischemic injury by inhibiting ER stress and ER stress-associated apoptosis.展开更多
Objective ： To make further improvement of outcome of patients with polytrauma and coma. Methods： The data of 3 361 patients （2 378 males and 983 females, aged from 5-95 years, 38. 2 years on average） with severe...Objective ： To make further improvement of outcome of patients with polytrauma and coma. Methods： The data of 3 361 patients （2 378 males and 983 females, aged from 5-95 years, 38. 2 years on average） with severe polytrauma and coma admitted to Chongqing Emergency Medical Center （Level I Trauma Center ）, Chongqing, China, from November 1978 to December 2004 were analyzed retrospectively in this study. Results： The overall survival rate and mortality were 93.2%（3 133/3 361 ）and 6.8%（228/3 361 ）, respectively. The mortalities in patients with coma duration 〈 1 hour and combined with neural dysfunction and in patients with coma duration ≥ 1 hour and combined with or without neural dysfunction were signifieantly higher than that of those with coma duration 〈 1 hour but without neural dysfunction [39.5%（136/344）vs 3.0%（92/3 017）, P 〈0.01]. There existed significant differences in GCS, ISS, and revised trauma score （RTS） between the death group and the survival group （P 〈 0. 01 ）. RTS was in good correspondence with patient＇ s pathophysiological status and outcome in patients with multiple trauma and coma for different groups of systolic blood pressure （SBP）. The mortality in patients with SBP 〈90 nun Hg was significantiy higher than that of those with SBP ≥ 90 mm Hg [ 33. 3 % （68/204） vs5.1%（160/3 157）, P 〈0.01]. The mortality in polytranma patients combined with serious head injury （AIS≥3） was8.2%, among which, 76.5% died from lung complications. The morbidity rate of lung complications and mortality rate increased in patients with head injury complicated with chest or abdomen injury （23.9%, 61.1% vs 27.3 %, 50.0 % ）. The mortality reached up to 61.9 % in patients complicated with severe head, chest and abdomen injuries simultaneously. Conclusions： It plays a key role to establish a fast and effective trauma care system and prompt and definite surgical procedures and to strengthen the management of complications for improving the survival rate of patients with severe palytrauma and coma.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of Liandouqingmai Recipe on life quality and vascular endothelial injury in patients with coronary heart disease.METHODS:Capitalized 101 patients with coronary heart disease were rando...OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of Liandouqingmai Recipe on life quality and vascular endothelial injury in patients with coronary heart disease.METHODS:Capitalized 101 patients with coronary heart disease were randomly divided into a treatment group(n=45) treated with Liandouqingmai Recipe and a standard treatment group(control group,n=56).A normal group of 16 healthy persons was additionally set up.Changes in ET-1 and NO levels were measured and Seatle Angina Questionnaire(SAQ) was adopted in studying life quality before and after treatment for two weeks.The data were analyzed with SPSS 16.0 statistic software.RESULTS:The average level of ET-1 in the normal group was lower and NO higher than that of patients with coronary heart disease.There was no significant difference in the average level of ET-1 and NO and in the scores of SAQ [physical limitation(PL),pngina stability(AS),apngina frequency(AF),treatment satisfaction(TS) and disease perception(DP)] between the two groups before treatment(P>0.05).But after treatment,the scores of SAQ(PL,AS,AF,TS,DP) and NO level were higher than those in the control group,and ET-1 average level in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group.The negative relations between PL and ET-1 and between AF and ET-1 were found in this study.CONCLUSION:Liandouqingmai Recipe can raise scores of SAQ and NO level and decline ET level in patients with coronary heart disease on the basis of convertional standard treatment,thus improving vascular endothelial function and life quality.Life quality is related to vascular endothelial function.展开更多
文摘Objective To compare the different effects of endothelia progenitor cells （ EPCs ） or basic fibroblast growth factor （b-FGF） intromyocardial infusion on cardiac function and neovascularization for dilated cardiomyopathy（ DCM） rats. Methods Fifty adult female rats received inguinal subcutaneous injections of isoproterenol （ISO, 250 mg/kg） for induction of DCM. Four weeks later, the model rats were randomly divided into EPCs group, b-FGF group and control group. The 2×106 EPCs （ resolved in 100 μL PBS） , 100 μL b-FGF （ lO0 μg/mL ） and 100 μL PBS were evenly transplanted into the myocardium of EPCs group, b-FGF group and control group, respectively. Three months later, echocardiographic examination and regional myocardial blood flow （RMBF） measurement were performed. EPCs were traced by fluorescence in situ hybridization （FISH）. The protein and mRNA expression of b-FGF in each group was measured by ELISA assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction （ RT-PCR ） . Results Three months after transplantation, sry positive cells were detected only in EPCs group. The cardiac function as well as RMBF was significantly improved in EPCs group compared with b-FGF group or control group. There was higher capillary density in EPCs group. The protein and mRNA expression of b-FGF was stronger than b-FGF group and control group. Conclusion Transplantation of EPCs can improve cardiac function, induce neovascularization and increase RMBF for DCM rats. The treatment with EPCs has better effect than administration of b-FGF alone.
文摘Heart failure （HF） with preserved ejection fraction （HFpEF） is the most common form of HF in older adults, and is increasing in preva- lence as the population ages. Furthermore, HFpEF is increasing out of proportion to HF with reduced EF （HFrEF）, and its prognosis is worsening while that of HFrEF is improving. Despite the importance of HFpEF, our understanding of its pathophysiology is incomplete, and optimal treatment remains largely undefined. A cardinal feature of HFpEF is reduced exercise tolerance, which correlates with symptoms as well as reduced quality of life. The traditional concepts of exercise limitations have focused on central dysfimction related to poor cardiac pump function. However, the mechanisms are not exclusive to the heart and lungs, and the understanding of the pathophysiology of this dis- ease has evolved. Substantial attention has focused on defining the central versus peripheral mechanisms underlying the reduced functional capacity and exercise tolerance among patients with HF. In fact, physical training can improve exercise tolerance via peripheral adaptive mechanisms even in the absence of favorable central hemodynamic function. In addition, the drug trials performed to date in HFpEF that have focused on influencing cardiovascular function have not improved exercise capacity. This suggests that peripheral limitations may play a significant role in HF limiting exercise tolerance, a hallmark feature of HFpEF.
基金The researches described in this article were partially supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 81570271 and 81400357） and NIH （UL1 RR024996）. We are very grateful to John R Lee （Assistant Professor of Medicine, Weill Comell Medical College, New York）, and Jeff J Zhu （Research Manager, Weill Comell Medical College, New York） for critical review of the article. The authors have nothing to disclosure.
文摘The roles of androgens on cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology are controversial as both beneficial and detrimental effects have been reported. Although the reasons for this discrepancy are unclear, multiple factors such as genetic and epigenetic variation, sex-specificity, hormone interactions, drug preparation and route of administration may contribute. Recently, growing evidence suggests that androgens exhibit beneficial effects on cardiovascular function though the mechanism remains to be elucidated. Endothelial cells （ECs） which line the interior surface of blood vessels are distributed throughout the circulatory system, and play a crucial role in cardiovascular function. Endothelial progenitor cells （EPCs） are considered an indispensable element for the reconstitution and maintenance of an intact endothelial layer. Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an initiating step in development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The modulation of endothelial functions by androgens through either genornic or nongenomic signal pathways is one possible mechanism by which androgens act on the cardiovascular system. Obtaining insight into the mechanisms by which androgens affect EC and EPC functions will allow us to determine whether androgens possess beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. This in turn may be critical in the prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. This article seeks to review recent progress in androgen regulation of endothelial function, the sex-specificity of androgen actions, and its clinical applications in the cardiovascular system.
文摘Several studies have demonstrated that the outcome of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection is profoundly influenced by a variety of comorbidities. Many of these comorbidities have a significant influence on the response to antiviral therapy. These comorbidities negatively affect the course and outcome of liver disease, often reducing the chance of achieving a sustained virological response with PEGylated interferon and ribavirin treatments. Comorbidities affecting response to antiviral therapy reduce compliance and adherence to inadequate doses of therapy. The most important comorbidities affecting the course of CHC include hepatitis B virus coinfection, metabolic syndrome, and intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Comorbidities affecting the course and response to therapy include schistosomiasis, iron overload, alcohol abuse, and excessive smoking. Comorbidities affecting response to antiviral therapy include depression, anemia, cardiovascular disease, and renal failure.
文摘1 Introduction Hypertension and cerebrovascular disease incidence and prevalence rise dramatically with age, owing to longer exposure time to age-associated alterations in vascular function and structure and cardiovascular risk factors. This chapter is aimed at connecting age-related alterations in vascular function and structure to the resultant target organ damage, and to raise awareness of unique presentations and treatment strategies for hypertension and stroke in older adults.
文摘Using 3 non-invasive tests, abnormalities of cardiovascular reflex function were found in 7 of 15 patients with achalasia. Abnormalities of heart rate responses to the Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, and standing were noted in patients with autonomic neuropathy defect. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that an abnormality of vagal function may contribute to the pathogenesis of achalasia.
文摘Objective To examine associations between cardiovascular system medication use with cognition function and diagnosis of dementia in older adults living in nursing homes in Australia. Methods As part of a cross-sectional study of 17 Australian nursing homes examining quality of life and resource use, we examined the association between cognitive impairment and cardiovascular medication use （identified using the Anatomical Therapeutic Classification System） using general linear regression and logistic regression models. People who were receiving end of life care were excluded. Results Participants included 541 residents with a mean age of 85.5 years （± 8.5）, a mean Psychogeriatric Assessment Scale–Cognitive Impairment （PAS-Cog） score of 13.3 （± 7.7）, a prevalence of cardiovascular diseases of 44% and of hypertension of 47%. Sixty-four percent of participants had been diagnosed with dementia and 72% had received cardiovascular system medications within the previous 12 months. Regression models demonstrated the use of cardiovascular medications was associated with lower （better） PAS-Cog scores [Coefficient （β） = -3.7; 95% CI： -5.2 to -2.2; P 〈 0.0001] and a lower probability of a dementia diagnosis （OR = 0.44; 95% CI： 0.26 to 0.75, P = 0.0022）. Analysis by subgroups of medications showed cardiac therapy medications （C01）, beta blocking agents （C07）, and renin-angiotensin system agents （C09） were associated with lower PAS-Cog scores （better cognition） and lower dementia diagnosis probability. Conclusions This analysis has demonstrated an association between greater cardiovascular system medication use and better cognitive status among older adults living in nursing homes. In this population, there may be differential access to health care and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors. This association warrants further investigation in large cohort studies.
文摘Hypertension is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity around the world and,prevalence of hypertension is increasing with aging.Hypertension in the elderly is associated with increased occurrence rates of sodium sensitivity,isolated systolic hypertension,and ＇white coat effect＇.Arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction also increase with age.These factors should be considered in selecting antihypertensive therapy.The prime objective of this therapy is to prevent stroke.The fmdings of controlled trials show that there should be no cut-off age for treatment.A holistic program for controlling cardiovascular risks should be fully discussed with the patient,including evaluation to exclude underlying causes of secondary hypertension,and implementation of lifestyle measures.The choice of antihypertensive drug therapy is influenced by concomitant disease and previous medication history,but will typically include a thiazide diuretic as the first-line agent;to this will be added an angiotensin inhibitor and/or a calcium channel blocker.Beta blockers are not generally recommended,in part because they do not combat the effects of increased arterial stiffness.The hypertension-hypoten-sion syndrome requires case-specific management.Drug-resistant hypertension is important to differentiate from faulty compliance with medication.Patients resistant to the third-line drug therapy may benefit from treatment with extended-release isosorbide mononitrate.A trial of spironolactone may also be worthwhile.
文摘The tumor suppressor p53 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers. MicroRNAs （miRNAs） are small non-protein coding RNAs that regulate gene expression on the post-transcriptional level. Recently, it was shown that p53 regulates the expression of several miRNAs, thereby representing an important mechanism of p53 signaling. Several independent studies identified the members of the miR-34 family as the most prevalent p53-induced miRNAs, miR-34s are frequently silenced in variety of tumor entities, suggesting that they are important tumor suppressors. Indeed, ectopic expression of miR-34s inhibits proliferation, epithelial to mes- enchymat transition, migration, invasion, and metastasis of various cancer celt entities. Moreover, delivery or re-expression of miR-34 leads to notable repression of tumor growth and metastasis in cancer mouse models, and may therefore represent an efficient strategy for future cancer therapeutics. Besides their crucial functions in cancer, members of the miR-34 family also play important roles in spermatogenesis, stem cell differentiation, neuronal development, aging, and cardiovascular functions. Consequently, miR-34 has also been implicated in various non-cancerous diseases, such as brain disorders, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular complications.
基金Project supported by the National Science & Technology Pillar Program during the Twelfth Five-year Plan Period of China(No.2014BAI08B02)the National Science & Technology Major Projects(Major Drug Discovery)of China(No.2012ZX09103201-021)
文摘The pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome（IBS） is complex and not fully understood, so the aim of this study was to evaluate whether visceral and somatic hypersensitivity, autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction, and low-grade inflammation of the gut wall are associated with diarrhea-predominant IBS（D-IBS）. Sixty-two patients with D-IBS and 20 control subjects participated in the study. Using the ascending method of limits（AML） protocol, we demonstrated that D-IBS patients had significantly lower sensory thresholds compared with healthy controls（P〈0.001）. Using diverse methods, especially the ischemic sensitivity test, for the first time in China, we confirmed that D-IBS patients have somatic hypersensitivity. They had a significantly higher systolic blood pressure and heart rate after a cold stimulus, indicative of autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction. Compared with the control group, D-IBS patients had a significantly higher level of calprotectin（P〈0.001）. We also found significant correlations between visceral and somatic hypersensitivity, visceral hypersensitivity and autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction, and somatic hypersensitivity and autonomic cardiovascular dysfunction. Our findings may provide valuable suggestions for the treatment of D-IBS.
基金supported by Bureau of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Jiangsu Province (No. HZ07097)
文摘Objective:To observe effects of Liandou Qingmai Recipe(连豆清脉方) on endothelin-1(ET-1),nitric oxide(NO),interleukin-6(IL-6) and IL-10 levels in patients with coronary heart disease.Methods:Total 101 cases with coronary heart disease were randomly divided into a treatment group(n=45) treated by Liandou Qingmai Recipe and a standard treatment group(control group,n=56),with a normal group of 16 health persons set up.Changes of ET-1,NO,IL-6 and IL-10 levels were measured before treatment and after treatment for two weeks.And the data were analyzed by SPSS 16.0 statistic software.Results:Before treatment,the levels of ET-1,IL-6 and IL-10 levels were significantly higher and NO was significantly lower in the patients with coronary heart disease than those in the normal group(90.7±12.7 ng/L vs 41.8±13.5 ng/L,9.17±0.18 ng/L vs 1.10±0.08 ng/L,1.94±0.26 ng/L vs 1.09±0.06 ng/L,and 92.2±17.7 μmol/L vs 124.5±27.2 μmol/L;all P<0.05),with no significant differences in the levels of ET-1,NO,IL-6 and IL-10 between the treatment group and the control group(P>0.05);After treatment,ET-1 and IL-6 significantly decreased in the treatment group and the control group,and NO increased in the treatment group;And IL-6 level was significantly lower and NO level was higher in the treatment group than those in the control group(4.48±1.22 ng/L vs 5.13±1.85 ng/L,117.4±22.3 μmol/L vs 92.4±17.1 μmol/L;both P<0.05);There was a positive correlation between IL-6 and IL-10,and a negative correlation between NO and IL-10(r=0.142,r=-0.152;both P<0.05).Conclusion:Liandou Qingmai Recipe can decline IL-6,IL-10 and ET-1 levels,and raise NO level in patients with coronary heart disease on the basis of standard treatment,so as to inhibit endothelial inflammatory response,improve vascular endothelial function,with stronger anti-AS action;And vascular endothelial lesion is related with inflammatory response.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant Nos. 2006CB503807 and 2009CB521902)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 30600763, 30870906, and 31071023)+2 种基金the Pujiang Project of Shanghai, China (Grant No.08PJ14001)the Project Sponsored by the Scientific Research Foundation for the Returned Overseas Chinese Scholars, Ministry of Education of China (Grant No. [2008]891)the Fund for Outstanding Young Teachers in Higher Education Institutions of Shanghai, China (Grant No.[2009]63)
文摘Salusins are regulatory peptides that affect cardiovascular function. We previously reported that salusin-a and -β protected cultured cardiomyocytes from serum deprivation-induced cell death through upregulating glucose-regulated protein 78 （GRP78）, an endoplasmic reticulum （ER） resident protein whose overexpression acts as a marker and suppressor of ER stress. The present study examined whether salusin-α and -β inhibit ER stress in ischemic myocardium. In a rat model of myocardial infarction created by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery （LAD）, salusin-α or -β was intravenously injected at 5 or 15 nmol kg-1 15 min prior to 2 h of LAD occlusion. The high dose of salusin-α and -β3 significantly improved heart function and hemodynamics in LAD-occluded rats, but had no effects in sham-operated rats. The arrhythmias caused by LAD oc- clusion were markedly attenuated by salusin-α and -β. The apoptotic rate in ischemic myocardium was reduced from 31.5%±3.7% to 19.8%±2.2% and 12.3%±2.2%, and the infarct size was reduced from 53.4%±4.0% of the risk area to 26.5%±9.7% and 23.7%±8.9% by 15 nmol kg-1 salusin-α and -β, respectively. Furthermore, salusin-α and -β prevented the ac- tivation of GRP78 and ER stress-specific apoptotic effectors caspase-12 and CHOP （C/EBP homologous protein）, and attenu- ated the reduction of an ER stress-associated antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 in ischemic cardiac tissue. The salusins also inhibited the ER stress induced by tunicamycin in cultured rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes. These results indicate that salusins protect myo- cardium against ischemic injury by inhibiting ER stress and ER stress-associated apoptosis.
文摘Objective ： To make further improvement of outcome of patients with polytrauma and coma. Methods： The data of 3 361 patients （2 378 males and 983 females, aged from 5-95 years, 38. 2 years on average） with severe polytrauma and coma admitted to Chongqing Emergency Medical Center （Level I Trauma Center ）, Chongqing, China, from November 1978 to December 2004 were analyzed retrospectively in this study. Results： The overall survival rate and mortality were 93.2%（3 133/3 361 ）and 6.8%（228/3 361 ）, respectively. The mortalities in patients with coma duration 〈 1 hour and combined with neural dysfunction and in patients with coma duration ≥ 1 hour and combined with or without neural dysfunction were signifieantly higher than that of those with coma duration 〈 1 hour but without neural dysfunction [39.5%（136/344）vs 3.0%（92/3 017）, P 〈0.01]. There existed significant differences in GCS, ISS, and revised trauma score （RTS） between the death group and the survival group （P 〈 0. 01 ）. RTS was in good correspondence with patient＇ s pathophysiological status and outcome in patients with multiple trauma and coma for different groups of systolic blood pressure （SBP）. The mortality in patients with SBP 〈90 nun Hg was significantiy higher than that of those with SBP ≥ 90 mm Hg [ 33. 3 % （68/204） vs5.1%（160/3 157）, P 〈0.01]. The mortality in polytranma patients combined with serious head injury （AIS≥3） was8.2%, among which, 76.5% died from lung complications. The morbidity rate of lung complications and mortality rate increased in patients with head injury complicated with chest or abdomen injury （23.9%, 61.1% vs 27.3 %, 50.0 % ）. The mortality reached up to 61.9 % in patients complicated with severe head, chest and abdomen injuries simultaneously. Conclusions： It plays a key role to establish a fast and effective trauma care system and prompt and definite surgical procedures and to strengthen the management of complications for improving the survival rate of patients with severe palytrauma and coma.
基金supported by Bureau of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Jiangsu Province(No.HZ07097)
文摘OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of Liandouqingmai Recipe on life quality and vascular endothelial injury in patients with coronary heart disease.METHODS:Capitalized 101 patients with coronary heart disease were randomly divided into a treatment group(n=45) treated with Liandouqingmai Recipe and a standard treatment group(control group,n=56).A normal group of 16 healthy persons was additionally set up.Changes in ET-1 and NO levels were measured and Seatle Angina Questionnaire(SAQ) was adopted in studying life quality before and after treatment for two weeks.The data were analyzed with SPSS 16.0 statistic software.RESULTS:The average level of ET-1 in the normal group was lower and NO higher than that of patients with coronary heart disease.There was no significant difference in the average level of ET-1 and NO and in the scores of SAQ [physical limitation(PL),pngina stability(AS),apngina frequency(AF),treatment satisfaction(TS) and disease perception(DP)] between the two groups before treatment(P>0.05).But after treatment,the scores of SAQ(PL,AS,AF,TS,DP) and NO level were higher than those in the control group,and ET-1 average level in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group.The negative relations between PL and ET-1 and between AF and ET-1 were found in this study.CONCLUSION:Liandouqingmai Recipe can raise scores of SAQ and NO level and decline ET level in patients with coronary heart disease on the basis of convertional standard treatment,thus improving vascular endothelial function and life quality.Life quality is related to vascular endothelial function.
