Volume Of Secretion Research Articles

Efficacy of short-term intrapulmonary percussive ventilation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Purpose: We evaluated the effectiveness of intrapulmonary percussive ventilation (IPV) compared to traditional standard chest physical therapy (CPT) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and productive cough.Methods: We conducted a quasi-experimental clinical trial. Twenty patients, 40% female (mean ± SD age: 70 ± 8 years), with COPD and productive cough received a multimodal respiratory treatment including IPV and CPT or a control intervention CPT for 10 days. Outcomes: PImax, PEmax, heart rate, respiratory rate, SBP, DBP, Likert scale, Borg dyspnea scale and arterial blood gas analysis: PO2, PCO2, pH, HCO3 and SpO2 measurements. All measures were collected at baseline and at the end of the intervention. We used repeated ANOVA to examine the effects of interventions within groups, between-subjects and the within-subjects.Results: A significant effect of time interaction (F = 7.27; p = 0.015, F = 6.16; p = 0.02 and F = 7.41; p = 0.014) existed for PO2, SpO2 and dyspnea over the moderate COPD and productive cough immediately after the intervention (all, p < 0.02). Both treatments are similarly effective in PImax and PEmax. No significant group effect or group-by-time interaction was detected for any of them, which suggests that both groups improved in the same way.Conclusions: This study provides evidence that a short-term combination of IPV and CPT improves PO2, SpO2 and perceived dyspnea than a traditional standard CPT in patients with COPD and productive cough.Implications for RehabilitationWe suggest that it could improve the oxygenation level on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Beyond that, the intrapulmonary percussive ventilation (IPV) is a safety non-pharmacologic airway clearance therapy that can be used on patients with different sorts of respiratory diseases, and there are still questions to be answered, especially concerning the volume of secretion removed and its superiority when compared with other techniques.

Evaluation of the anti-diarrheal activity of Salvia connivens

Context: Diarrheal disease is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity and accounts for 5–8 million deaths worldwide each year. Salvia connivens Epling (Lamiaceae) is used to treat sore throat, fevers, diarrhea, malaria, and also is used as an antipyretic.Objective: The present study evaluates the efficacy of S. connivens in the treatment of diarrhea using animal models.Materials and methods: The anti-diarrheal effect of methanol extract of S. connivens was investigated on mice with castor oil, arachidonic acid (AA) or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-induced diarrhea. On Wistar rats, the activity was evaluated on the intestinal transit and Castor oil-induced enteropooling.Results: The methanol extract at doses of 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg on castor oil-induced diarrhea reduced the diarrhea by 32.3, 41.9, 67.7, 74.2, 83.3, and 100%, respectively. Additionally, this extract, at doses of 200 mg/kg, inhibited AA-induced diarrhea by 100%. The methanol extract produced no effect on PGE2-induced diarrhea at the same doses. In Wistar rats, at dose of 200 mg/kg, the methanol extract inhibited intestinal transit and decreased the volume of intestinal secretion induced by castor oil.Discussion: The methanol extract showed anti-diarrheal effect on the animal models used. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, and saponins which may be responsible for this effect. The extract did not cause any mortality or any visible signs of toxicity or differences in food and water uptake were seen.Conclusions: These results justify the use of S. connivens as an anti-diarrheal agent.

Gastric antiulcer, antisecretory and cytoprotective properties of celery (Apium graveolens) in rats

Celery seed is generally regarded as safe for human consumption as a spice, natural seasoning and plant extract/essential oil. The present study was carried out to assess the possible anti-gastric ulcer, cytoprotective and antisecretory properties of ethanolic extract of Apium graveolens in rats in order to substantiate the traditional Unani, Arab and Ayurvedic medicine practitioners' claim of its use in stomach disorders. 500 grams of the shade dried aerial parts of celery was coarse powdered and macerated in 3 liters of 96% ethanol for 72 hours using percolation method. Wistar albino rats were used. The stomach was removed, opened along the greater curvature, washed with saline and the inner surface was examined with a 6.4 × binocular magnifier. Celery extract was administered orally (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) 30 minutes before indomethacin. The rats were killed 6 hours after indomethacin administration. Gastric antisecretory activity was evaluated in rats. The animals were deprived of food for 36h with access to water ad libitum. Under light ether anaesthesia, a small midline abdominal incision was made and the pylorus ligated. The wound was closed using sterile suture. The plant extract or normal saline was administered intraperitoneally immediately after pylorus ligation. Six hours after pylorus ligation the animals were sacrificed by cervical displacement. The stomachs were removed from both groups (treated and control), the gastric contents collected and centrifuged. The volume of the supernatant was measured and titratable acidity of liquid gastric content was recorded and calculated. Celery extract produced a dose-dependent significant protection against the ulcerogenic effect induced by indomethacin. In the ethanol and strong alkali-induced ulcer protocol, it was observed that the treatment with ethanolic extract of celery (250 and 500 mg/kg) significantly reduced the lesion index. A highly significant reduction of ulceration in rats' stomach and intraluminal bleeding was recorded after celery extract pretreatment at the dose of 500 mg/kg orally. In the gastric secretion determination model, using ligated pylorus for 6h, the treatment with celery extract (250 and 500 mg/kg i.p.), reduced the volume of basal gastric secretion, titratable acidity and ulceration significantly in comparison with control group. The results show that ethanol extract of Celery displays gastroprotective activity, as demonstrated by its significant inhibition of the formation of ulcers induced by different experimental models, and its ability to decrease basal gastric acid secretion. This gastric antiulcer capacity of celery extract could be related to its antioxidant properties, resulting in reduction of the lipid peroxidation and elevation of the NP-SH contents, besides, improving mucus coat of the stomach. Therefore, we suggest that due to its antioxidative effects, it may be useful in the prevention of gastric disorders.

Aerobic exercise increases tear secretion in type 2 diabetic mice.

To investigate the effects of exercise on tear secretion in type 2 diabetic mice, and to investigate the effect of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR). Heterozygous controls (db/m; m Lepr(db)) and type 2 diabetic mice (db/db; Lepr(db)) either underwent forced treadmill exercise training 5 days a week or remained sedentary for 8 weeks. Tear secretion volume was measured by cotton threads for 30 seconds pre- and post intervention. The levels of oxidative stress markers (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG], propanoyl lysine [PRL], and hexanoyl lysine [HEL]) in tears were measured in the postintervention period. Furthermore, C57BL/6JJc1 mice, db/db mice, and db/m mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of AICAR or PBS each day for 5 days, and tear secretion volume was measured. Exercise training for 8 weeks increased tear secretion volume in db/m and db/db mice. The levels of oxidative stress markers in tears were less in the exercise group than in the control group. In C57BL/6JJc1 mice, the tear secretion volumes in both the AICAR 125 mg/kg and AICAR 250 mg/kg groups were significantly larger than in the PBS group (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively). Additionally, in db/db mice, tear secretion volume in the AICAR 125 mg/kg group was also significantly larger than in the PBS group (P < 0.05). Exercise training for 8 weeks and a daily injection of AICAR for 5 days increased tear secretion in mice. The results suggest that exercise may be a potential therapy to modulate tear secretion.

Evaluation of secretion volume and immunoglobulin A and G concentrations in sow colostrum from anterior to posterior teats.

Among domestic animals, teat order is only observed in the pig. In order to achieve the healthy growth and weaning of piglets, it is important to elucidate if volume of colostrum secretion and immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG concentrations differ among the teats of a sow. Nine sows were used to evaluate the difference in colostrum secretion volume (CSV) and four of these sows were assessed for IgA and IgG concentrations from each teat. Samples were collected five times during 21 h following parturition. Teats were assigned anatomical locations of teat (1 to 7) from anterior to posterior. The CSV of anterior (locations 1 and 2) and middle teats (locations 3-5) was significantly higher than those of posterior teats (locations 6 and 7) throughout the experiment except for 18 h post-parturition (P < 0.05). The CSV of the teats at location 1 was significantly higher at most collection times than those at locations 6 and 7. A positive correlation of CSV was observed with IgA and IgG concentrations from 12 h and 6 h post-parturition, respectively (P < 0.05). The results suggest that anterior teats secrete greater volumes of colostrum and that these tend to contain higher IgA and IgG than posteriors teats.

Особливості періодичної активності шлунка за умов дисбалансу NO-ергічної системи

Nitric oxide is the main inhibitory mediator of the gastrointestinal smooth muscles’ relaxation which stimulates duodenal mucus and bicarbonate secretion. More recent studies have demonstrated that NO also protected the gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting gastric acid secretion. In this study we investigated gastric secretory and motor activity considering the NO imbalance condition. The experiments were carried out on male white laboratory rats (200–230 g). The control group was treated with 0.9% NaCl solution. The injections of NO donator (1.5 mg/kg of 0.1% (Sigma-Aldrich) sodium nitroprusside solution) were made in the second and the third groups during 6 and 12 days. The fourth and the fifth group were treated with NO synthesis inhibitor (40 mg/kg of 1% solution (Sigma-Aldrich) Nω-nitro-L-arginine) during 6 and 12 days respectively. Recording of gastric myoelectric activity (GMA) and gastric juice collection were carried out under anesthesia (ketamine, 110 mg/kg). Next, its volume, pH, glycoprotein and pepsin were measured. Within 6-days stimulation of NO excess decreased gastric juice volume by 47% and increased pH compared to control samples. Pepsin level increased by 62% and glycoprotein level decreased by 68% compared to the checkpoint. After 6 days of L-NNA injections we observed the increase of gastric juice secretion volume (78%) and pH level, however, pepsin concentration remained unchanged. Glycoprotein level increased by 21% compared to control samples. After 12 day NO synthesis inhibitor injections gastric secretion volume increased by 85%. Gastric juice pH level was 200% higher than the control value and exceeded gastric juice pH level (62%) in the third group. In addition, pepsin level tended to decrease when NO deficiency simulation was prolonged. Glycoprotein level decreased by 41% compared to control samples and by 51% compared to the third group. Pepsin level decreased after 12 day NO-inhibitor injections as gastric juice pH level increased. After 12 day Na-nitroprusside treatment, gastric myoelectric index decreased by 42% compared to the checkpoint. The type of contractions is typical to the I phase of the basic electrical rhythm (BER). Also, retrograde entrainment of duodenal rhythm took place. After 6 day L-NNA injections, GMA was the same as the period between II and III phase of BER. Late second and early third phases predominated, while the I phase wasn’t detected during the recording. In case of long-lasting disorder of NO-system, motor index value significantly differed from the control group samples and depended on the duration of NO-synthase blocking. On the 6th day of L-NNA treatment, the level of motor index increased 1.5 times. GMA phases could be identified only on the basis of motor index values. Stomach’s own rhythms disappeared and duodenogastric reflux resulted in domination of duodenal rhythms. After 12 day L-NNA injections, duration of the II and III phases increased while the I phase of gastric BER disappeared; gastric motor index decreased by 27%. After considering the results of the current investigation, it can be stated that NO system imbalance leads to desynchronization of gastric active phases and, perhaps, reassigns the influence of different compensatory-adaptive mechanisms. The longer is the L-NNA treatment, the more gastric functions are imbalanced and the stronger is the process of destruction.

Study on factors that affect caries susceptibility in mice

In our previous research, we discovered a C57BL/6CrSlc mouse strain (B6) that is highly susceptible to caries and a C3H/HeSlc mouse strain (C3H) that is highly resistant to caries, and reported that genetic factors play a role in caries susceptibility. In a study on the B6 and C3H mouse strains, a difference was found in their saliva flow rates, as well as their caries scores. In the present study, we focused on saliva secretion, which may influence differences in caries susceptibility. We examined temporal changes in stimulated saliva secretion volume in B6 and C3H mice, and found that secretion volume was significantly higher in C3H mice than in B6 mice even at 30 min after stimulation, and that total saliva volume was significantly higher in C3H mice. In addition, histological comparisons of the submandibular gland in the two strains revealed the ratio of acinar cells area to be significantly higher in C3H mice than in B6 mice. We then examined the gene expression of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M1R, M2R and M3R, which are thought to be regulatory factors of water secretion from acinar cells in the parasympathetic nervous system, but did not find any significant differences between the two strains. Enamel hardness was significantly higher in C3H mice than in B6 mice. The acinar cell ratio in the submandibular gland may be a factor associated with differences in salivary flow rate, and enamel hardness may be a determining factor of tooth decalcification; two factors that affect caries susceptibility.

Walking for exercise brings acute decreasing effects on urinary C‐peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) excretion (LB436)

Although it is well known that hyperinsulinemia is improved by exercise, insulin secretion volume has not been examined in detail. We investigated the effects of walking exercise on urinary C‐peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) excretion levels. Methods: In trial 1, six adult female volunteers participated in four experiments over 24 hours. The participants performed either only normal daily activities or walking programs at the speed of 6 km/h for 60 or 120 or 180 min/day. Total urine samples for 12 hours were collected during day (8am to 8pm) and night (8pm to 8am) after the second morning (6am to 8am) urine collection. In trial 2, similar experiments were carried out and urine samples after 8am were collected every four hours until 8pm. Results: In trial 1, urinary CPR excretion levels during day were significantly lower in 120 and 180 min walking than in non‐walking experiment. Similarly in trial 2, urinary CPR excretion levels were significantly lower in 120 and 180 min walking experiment at all times between 8am and 8 pm. Urinary adrenaline, noradrenaline and free cortisol excretion levels during 4 experiments did not significantly differ. In both trials, further effects of 180 min walking on urinary CPR excretion levels were not obtained. Conclusions: Walking at 6 km/h for more than 2 hours decreases urinary CPR excretion levels without increasing physical stress.Grant Funding Source: a grant from Kanto Gakuin University

Measurement of endotracheal tube secretions volume by micro computed tomography (MicroCT) scan: an experimental and clinical study

BackgroundBiofilm accumulates within the endotracheal tube (ETT) early after intubation. Contaminated secretions in the ETT are associated with increased risk for microbial dissemination in the distal airways and increased resistance to airflow. We evaluated the effectiveness of micro computed tomography (MicroCT) for the quantification of ETT inner volume reduction in critically ill patients.MethodsWe injected a known amount of gel into unused ETT to simulate secretions. We calculated the volume of gel analyzing MicroCT scans for a length of 20 cm. We then collected eleven ETTs after extubation of critically ill patients, recording clinical and demographical data. We assessed the amount of secretions by MicroCT and obtained ETT microbiological cultures.ResultsGel volumes assessed by MicroCT strongly correlated with injected gel volumes (p < 0.001, r2 = 0.999).MicroCT revealed the accumulation of secretions on all the ETTs (median 0.154, IQR:0.02-0.837 mL), corresponding to an average cross-sectional area reduction of 1.7%. The amount of secretions inversely correlated with patients’ age (p = 0.011, rho = −0.727) but not with days of intubation, SAPS2, PaO2/FiO2 assessed on admission. Accumulation of secretions was higher in the cuff region (p = 0.003). Microbial growth occurred in cultures from 9/11 ETTs, and did not correlate with secretions amount. In 7/11 cases the same microbes were identified also in tracheal aspirates.ConclusionsMicroCT appears as a feasible and precise technique to measure volume of secretions within ETTs after extubation. In patients, secretions tend to accumulate in the cuff region, with high variability among patients.

Efecto gastroprotector y antisecretor de un fitofármaco de hojas de matico (Piper aduncum)

To determine the gastroprotective and antisecretory effect of ethanol extract from matico leaves (Piper aduncum) in animal models. To evaluate the gastroprotective effect, 220 mice of the Balb C57 strain were used. They were randomized in 22 groups of ten animals each, in which the formation of gastric ulcers was induced with indomethacin. Gastroprotection was determined by evaluating three aspects: inflammation, number of hemorrhagic shocks and number of ulcers. To evaluate the antisecretory effect, 64 white male Holtzman rats were used, which were randomized in eight groups of eight animals, one control and seven groups of treatment with one extract dose level and two phytochemical dose levels. Antisecretion was obtained through the pylorus ligation. Regarding gastroprotection, dichloromethane, chloroform, hexane and methanol extracts decreased inflammation to over 66% (p<0,05). The ethanolic extract shows 100% activity in reducing the number of hemorrhagic bands (p<0,05). The chloroform extract shows antiulcer activity at 75% (p<0,05). In terms of antisecretion, the phytochemical in capsules containing the ethanolic extract achieved 72% reduction of the gastric secretion volume (p<0,01) and 104,3% (p<0,01) PH increase. In experimental conditions, ethanolic extracts, their fractions and phytochemicals have a gastroprotective effect in mice and antisecretory effect in rats.

A Novel Objective Sour Taste Evaluation Method Based on Near-infrared Spectroscopy

One of the most important themes in the development of foods and drinks is the accurate evaluation of taste properties. In general, a sensory evaluation system is frequently used for evaluating food and drink. This method, which is dependent on human senses, is highly sensitive but is influenced by the eating experience and food palatability of individuals, leading to subjective results. Therefore, a more effective method for objectively estimating taste properties is required. Here we show that salivary hemodynamic signals, as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy, are a useful objective indicator for evaluating sour taste stimulus. In addition, the hemodynamic responses of the parotid gland are closely correlated to the salivary secretion volume of the parotid gland in response to basic taste stimuli and respond to stimuli independently of the hedonic aspect. Moreover, we examined the hemodynamic responses to complex taste stimuli in food-based solutions and demonstrated for the first time that the complicated phenomenon of the "masking effect," which decreases taste intensity despite the additional taste components, can be successfully detected by near-infrared spectroscopy. In summary, this study is the first to demonstrate near-infrared spectroscopy as a novel tool for objectively evaluating complex sour taste properties in foods and drinks.

Gastroprotective and Ulcer Healing Effects of Essential Oil of Hyptis martiusii Benth. (Lamiaceae)

Hyptis martiusii Benth. is an aromatic plant found in abundance in northeastern Brazil that is used in ethnomedicine to treat gastric disorders. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms of action involved in the gastroprotection of the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii (EOHM) and to evaluate its healing capacity. Wistar rats were exposed to different protocols and subsequently were treated with 1% Tween-80 aqueous solution (negative control), pantoprazole, carbenoxolone, N-acetylcysteine (depending on the specificity of each model) or EOHM. The antisecretory activity (basal or stimulated) was determined using the pyloric ligature method. The gastroprotective action of nitric oxide and sulphydryl groups (–SH groups), as well as the quantification of adherent mucus and the levels of malondialdehyde and –SH groups in gastric mucosa, were evaluated using ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model. The healing ability was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer model and histological and immunohistochemical analysis (HE, PAS and PCNA). EOHM (400 mg/kg) reduced the volume and acidity of gastric secretion stimulated by histamine and pentagastrin. The gastroprotective effect of EOHM involves the participation of endogenous sulfhydryl groups. EOHM increased mucus production (54.8%), reduced levels of MDA (72.5%) and prevented the depletion of –SH groups (73.8%) in the gastric mucosa. The treatment with EOHM reduced in 70.3% the gastric lesion area, promoting significant regeneration of the gastric mucosa, as confirmed by histological analysis and analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The results show that gastroprotective effect of EOHM is mediated by cytoprotective and antioxidant mechanisms and by their antisecretory activity, and suggest that the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii is a promising candidate for the treatment of gastric ulcers.

Validation of a golden angle radial sequence (GOLD) for abdominal T1 mapping during free breathing: Demonstrating clinical feasibility for quantifying gastric secretion and emptying

To validate a magnetic resonance imaging sequence suitable for quantitative assessment of acid suppression by a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) on gastric secretion and emptying in clinical practice. A golden angle radial sequence (GOLD) was validated in a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments and clinical feasibility was shown in two studies. The impact of free breathing and image plane orientation on T1 values was evaluated in a controlled in vivo experiment. The free-breathing GOLD sequence was compared against a standard breath-hold gradient echo sequence for gastric half emptying time in 23 subjects during a gastric emptying study. Pilot data from five subjects assessed the sensitivity of the GOLD sequence to detect changes in acid secretion volume produced by PPI treatment. The coronal free-breathing GOLD sequence and the axial breath-hold standard gradient echo sequence showed good agreement of the gastric half emptying time (6 ± 3 min, P = 0.053). The GOLD sequence demonstrated sensitivity to reduction of gastric secretion volumes induced by PPI treatment (55 ± 5 mL, P < 0.001). The GOLD sequence allowed for free breathing, multislice, combined imaging and T1 mapping of the stomach content. GOLD presents a promising multipurpose, noninvasive imaging tool for monitoring gastric function in clinical studies.

Antisecretory Action of the Extract of the Aerial Parts ofEremomastax speciosa (Acanthaceae)Occurs through Antihistaminic and Anticholinergic Pathways

Objective. The objective of this study was to find out the possible antiulcer mechanism of action of Eremomastax speciosa. Method. Carbachol- and histamine-induced hypersecretion, associated with the pylorus ligation technique, were used in rats. Gastric mucosal ulceration, mucus production, pH, gastric volume, and acidity were measured. Results. Histamine and carbachol raised gastric acidity to 86.50 and 84.80 mEq/L, respectively, in the control rats, and the extracts (200 mg/kg) reduced gastric acidity to 34.60 and 39.00 mEq/L, respectively. Intraduodenal aqueous extract (400 mg/kg) in histamine- and carbachol-treated rats produced significant (P < 0.001) decreases in acid secretion to 28.50 and 28.80 mEq/L, respectively, and 100 percent inhibition of gastric ulceration. Augmented histamine-induced gastric acid secretion (90.20 mEq/L) was significantly reduced to 52.60 and 27.50 mEq/L by the 200 and 400 mg/kg doses of the aqueous extract, respectively. The extract significantly reduced (P < 0.001) the volume of gastric secretion and significantly increased mucus production. The ulcer inhibition potential of the extract significantly dropped to 25–44% (oral extract) and to 29–37% (duodenal extract) in carbachol/indomethacin-treated rats. Conclusion. The aqueous extract of E. speciosa has both cytoprotective and antisecretory effects. The antisecretory effect may involve a mechanism common to both cholinergic and histaminergic pathways.

Protective effects of D-002 on experimentally induced gastroesophageal reflux in rats

To investigate the effects of beeswax alcohols (D-002) on the esophageal damage induced by gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in rats. Sixty male rats were randomized into six groups (10 rats/group): a negative control and five groups with experimentally induced GER: a positive vehicle control, three treated with D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively), and one with omeprazole 10 mg/kg. All treatments were given by gastric gavage. One hour after dosing, GER was produced by simultaneous ligation of the pyloric end and the forestomach. Esophageal lesions index (ELI), gastric secretion volume and acidity, and esophageal malondialdehyde (MDA) and sulfhydryl (SH) group concentrations were measured. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05. As compared to the negative control, the positive control group exhibited increased ELI (5.2 ± 0.33 vs 0 ± 0, P = 0.0003), gastric secretion volume (2.69 ± 0.09 vs 0.1 ± 0.0, P = 0.0003) and acidity (238 ± 19.37 vs 120.0 ± 5.77, P = 0.001), and esophageal concentrations of MDA (2.56 ± 0.1 vs 1.76 ± 0.28, P = 0.001) and SH groups (1.02 ± 0.05 vs 0.56 ± 0.08, P = 0.0003). D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg) reduced ELI (3.36 ± 0.31, 2.90 ± 0.46 and 2.8 ± 0.23, respectively) vs the positive control (5.2 ± 0.33) (P = 0.004; P = 0.002; P = 0.001, respectively). There were no significant changes in acidity with D-002 treatment, and only the highest dose reduced the volume of the gastric secretion (1.92 ± 0.25) vs the positive control (2.69 ± 0.09, P = 0.013). D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg) lowered the esophageal MDA (2.05 ± 0.16, 1.98 ± 0.22 and 1.93 ± 0.22, respectively) (P = 0.01; P = 0.03; P = 0.03, respectively) and SH group concentration (0.87 ± 0.06, 0.79 ± 0.08 and 0.77 ± 0.06, respectively) (P = 0.04; P = 0.04; P = 0.02) vs the positive control (2.56 ± 0.10 and 1.02 ± 0.05, respectively). Omeprazole decreased ELI (2.54 ± 0.47), gastric secretion volume (1.97 ± 0.14) and acidity (158.5 ± 22.79), esophageal MDA (1.87 ± 0.13) and SH group (0.72 ± 0.05) concentrations vs the positive control (P = 0.002; P = 0.001; P = 0.02; P = 0.003; P = 0.002, respectively). Acute oral administration of D-002 decreased macroscopic esophageal lesions and oxidative stress in rats with experimentally induced GER, without modifying gastric secretion acidity.

Gastric antisecretory and cytoprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Plumeria alba Linn. leaves in rats

This study was conducted to evaluate the antiulcerogenic property of hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the leaves of Plumeria alba Linn. Antiulcer assays were performed using the protocols of ulcer induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ethanol and pylorus ligation. The hydroalcoholic extract (HAPA), and various fractions of HAPA like, n-hexane extract (HPA), ethyl acetate extract (EAPA) and n-butanol extract (BPA) were administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg for HAPA and 100 and 200 mg/kg for fractions of extracts. Parameters of gastric secretion (volume, pH, total protein, and free and total acidity) were determined by the pylorus ligation model. Parameters like aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were also determined in ethanol-induced ulcer model. To determine the mechanism of action, role of nitric oxide was also evaluated. EAPA and BPA (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed gastric ulcer-healing effect in indomethacin-induced ulcer model, while HAPA (200 mg/kg) and HPA showed no significant antiulcer effect. Both EAPA and BPA showed gastric cytoprotective effect in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer and inhibited gastric secretion in pylorus-ligated rats. The results of the present study show that some hydroalcoholic extract of Plumeria alba L. displays antiulcer activity, as demonstrated by the significant inhibition of ulcer formation induced by different models, which is consistent with the literature report in folk medicine.

Renal amyloidosis in cystic fibrosis: role of colchicine therapy.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common autosomal-recessive condition affecting the white population, with an incidence ranging between 1:2500 and 1:1800 births. It is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, encoding the polyprotein CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), which functions as an ATP-responsive chloride channel in the apical membrane of epithelial cells. Pathologic changes related to CFTR mutations mostly affect secretory cells, resulting in low secretion volume and increased viscosity and promoting mucosal obstruction in the lung, pancreas, biliary tract, sinuses and reproductive tract [1]. Patients with CF currently show a continuing improvement in their life expectancy, an improvement that allows for better multidisciplinary monitoring and earlier therapeutic interventions. Owing to their longer life expectancy, CF patients present complications that were not recorded before [2]. This is illustrated by the following report of two cases of renal AA amyloidosis in women with CF.

Expression of Aquaporins in Prostate and Seminal Vesicles of Diabetic Rats

Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane proteins that facilitate the movement of water and many small solutes across biological membranes. Seminal fluid is primarily produced by prostate and seminal vesicles, and its production may potentially be mediated by many mechanisms related to transudation of fluid. Epidemiological data suggest that semen volume in diabetic men is significantly less than in nondiabetic men. To investigate the change in volume of secretions of the prostate and seminal vesicles in diabetic rats and its association with the expression of AQPs 1-4. Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided among 4- and 6-week diabetic groups and 4- and 6-week control groups. Prostate and seminal vesicle secretions were collected and measured, and levels of expression of AQPs 1-4 were determined by immunohistochemical study and Western blot. The levels of expression of AQPs 1-4 were determined in the prostate and seminal vesicles of diabetic rats by Western blot and immunohistochemical study. Plasma glucose was significantly higher in diabetic model groups than in controls (P < 0.05). The weights of secretions of the prostate and seminal vesicles were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). The levels of expression of AQPs 1 and 4 in seminal vesicles were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the level of expression of AQP3 in seminal vesicles among the groups. The levels of expression of AQPs 1, 3, and 4 in prostate were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). AQP2 was not detectable in the prostate or seminal vesicles of any of the groups. Decreased weight of prostate secretions in diabetic rats may be partly due to decreased levels of AQPs 1, 3, and 4 in prostatic tissue. Decreased weight of seminal vesicle secretions in diabetic rats may be partly due to decreased levels of AQP1 and AQP4 in seminal vesicles. There is no relationship between the expression of AQPs 1-4 and the duration of disease.

Cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of the methanol extract of Eremomastax speciosa in rats.

Ethno-botanical information shows that Eremomastax speciosa is used in the traditional management of various stomach complaints including gastro-duodenal ulcers. In this study, we tested the cytoprotective potential of the whole plant methanol extract (100-200 mg/kg, p.o), against HCl/ethanol, absolute ethanol, cold/restraint stress rats, and pylorus legated rats pre-treated with indomethacin. The effects of the extract on gastric lesion inhibition, the volume of gastric juice, gastric pH, gastric acid output, mucus production and gastric peptic activity were recorded. Oxidative stress parameters were measured in blood and gastric tissue samples obtained from the animals in all the models tested. The extract significantly (p<0.05), reduced the formation of cold/restraint ulcers by (31-60%, inhibition), completely inhibited (100%) the formation of lesions induced by HCl/ethanol at the highest dose, but was less effective against absolute ethanol (22-46% inhibition). The extract (200 mg/kg), significantly reduced lesion formation (P<0.01), gastric acidity (P<0.01), and volume of gastric secretions (P<0.05), in the indomethacin/pylorus ligation model, and did not affect the activity of pepsin in gastric juice. Blood concentrations of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD and GSH), increased significantly and MDA concentrations decreased in all models tested. Cytoprotection by E. speciosa methanol extract was attributed to its ability to reduce acid secretion, and to enhance mucosal defence and in vivo antioxidant status.

EFFECT OF APELIN-13 ADMINISTRATION ON GASTRIC SECRETION IN NORMAL AND DIABETIC RATS

Background: Apelin is a recently discovered peptide, identified as an endogenous ligand of receptor APJ, apelin has beneficial effect in diabetic conditions as it increase glucose uptake and improve insulin sensitivity, diabetic patients have impaired gastric secretion and apelin is expressed in parietal, chief and mucous cells and this raise the possibility of involvement of apelin in gastric physiology. Objective: The present study was carried out to demonstrate the effect of acute and chronic administration of apelin 13 on gastric secretion in normal and diabetic rats. Design: 98 adult wistar male albino rats were used, animals were divided into three main groups group A (normal rats), group B (high fat diet induced diabetic rats) and group C (streptozotocin induced diabetic rats), each group is subdivided into control subgroup (1), acute apelin-13 injected subgroup (2), chronic apelin-13 injected subgroup for 21 days (3): In all studied groups, different parameters of gastric secretion, gastric mucosal pH and mucin content were measured. Results: acute administration of apelin-13 decreased gastric acid secretion in all groups proved by significant increase in pH accompanied by significant decrease in total and free acidity, the percentage in decrease of gastric acid secretion in normal rats is more than that of high fat diet induced diabetic rats and streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Ghrelin level, volume of gastric secretion, blood glucose and HOMA- IR significantly decreased in all groups. pepsin, mucin content of gastric mucosa and insulin level had no significant change in all groups, while, pH of gastric mucosal surface significantly increased .In addition, there was negative correlation between ghrelin level and pH, positive correlation between ghrelin and both total and free acidity in normal rats, positive correlation between ghrelin and volume of gastric secretion in all studied groups. Chronic administration of apelin-13 caused no change in gastric acidity in normal rats. and increase gastric acidity in high fat diet induced diabetic rats and streptozotocin induced diabetic rats, proved by significant decrease in pH accompanied by significant increase in total and free acidity, the percentage of increase in gastric acid secretion in high fat diet induced diabetic rats is more than that of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats, moreover, chronic administration of apelin-13decreased ghrelin level, pepsin level, volume of gastric secretion, blood glucose, insulin level and HOMA- IR and increase pH of gastric mucosal surface and mucin level in all studied groups. In addition, there is positive correlation between ghrelin and volume of gastric secretion in all studied groups. Conclusion: While apelin-13 injection on chronic run caused no change in gastric acidity in normal rats, it improved gastric acidity in diabetic rats and can act as a promising target for type 2 diabetes treatment. In addition apelin-13 can be considered as gastro protective agent as it increased pH of gastric mucosal surface and mucin level in normal and diabetic rats. Key words: Apelin, gastric secretion, diabetes.