[Cardiovascular effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: position of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in Russian and international guidelines. Council of Experts]

This Expert Council focuses on the meta-analysis of studies on the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and of data on the omega-3 PUFA treatment in patients with cardiovascular and kidney diseases.The major statements of the Expert Council: the meta-analysis of AF risk in patients taking omega-3 PUFA showed an increased risk of this arrhythmia. However, it should be taken into account that the risk of complications was low, and there was no significant increase in the risk of AF when omega-3 PUFA was used at a dose of ≤1 g and a standard dose of the only omega-3 PUFA drug registered in the Russian Federation, considering all AF episodes in the ASCEND study.At the present time, according to Russian and international clinical guidelines, the use of omega-3 PUFA can be considered in the following cases: • for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction as a supplement to the basic therapy (2B class of recommendations according to the 2020 Russian Society of Cardiology guidelines (RSC) and the 2022 AHA / ACC / HFSA guidelines); • for patients with hypertriglyceridemia (>1.5 mmol/l) as a part of combination therapy (IIb class of recommendations and B level of evidence according to the 2021 European guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention, etc.); • for adult patients with stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease (CKD), long-chain omega-3 PUFA 2 g/day is recommended for reducing the level of triglycerides (2C class of recommendations). Data on the use of omega-3 PUFA for other indications are heterogenous, which can be partially explained by using different form and doses of the drugs.

Global maps of soil temperature

Research in global change ecology relies heavily on global climatic grids derived from estimates of air temperature in open areas at around 2 m above the ground. These climatic grids do not reflect conditions below vegetation canopies and near the ground surface, where critical ecosystem functions occur and most terrestrial species reside. Here, we provide global maps of soil temperature and bioclimatic variables at a 1-km2 resolution for 0-5 and 5-15 cm soil depth. These maps were created by calculating the difference (i.e. offset) between in situ soil temperature measurements, based on time series from over 1200 1-km2 pixels (summarized from 8519 unique temperature sensors) across all the world's major terrestrial biomes, and coarse-grained air temperature estimates from ERA5-Land (an atmospheric reanalysis by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts). We show that mean annual soil temperature differs markedly from the corresponding gridded air temperature, by up to 10°C (mean = 3.0 ± 2.1°C), with substantial variation across biomes and seasons. Over the year, soils in cold and/or dry biomes are substantially warmer (+3.6 ± 2.3°C) than gridded air temperature, whereas soils in warm and humid environments are on average slightly cooler (-0.7 ± 2.3°C). The observed substantial and biome-specific offsets emphasize that the projected impacts of climate and climate change on near-surface biodiversity and ecosystem functioning are inaccurately assessed when air rather than soil temperature is used, especially in cold environments. The global soil-related bioclimatic variables provided here are an important step forward for any application in ecology and related disciplines. Nevertheless, we highlight the need to fill remaining geographic gaps by collecting more in situ measurements of microclimate conditions to further enhance the spatiotemporal resolution of global soil temperature products for ecological applications.

[Integral tests of the hemostasis system in assessing the efficiency of acetylsalicylic acid in patients with ischemic heart disease]

Despite the fact that acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is the "gold" standard for the prevention of cardiovascular complications in patients with coronary heart disease (CAD), a number of patients still have risks of atherothrombosis. In the present study, the antithrombotic effect of ASA in patients with CAD was assessed in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) using integral tests of the hemostasis study: the T-TAS system (Total Thrombus-formation Analysis System) and the thrombin generation test (TGT). The study involved 34 patients with stable CAD (11 women, 23 men) and people (15 women, 18 men) in the control group. As a result of assessing the activity of thrombus formation using the T-TAS system, a significant decrease in the area under the curve (AUC10) was found in the group with CAD patients compared with the control (135.6 [88.0-222.3] and 260.5 [217.3-301.9], respectively, p.

[Surgical treatment of mega aorta syndrome: a single-center experience]

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience in the treatment of severe patients with mega aorta syndrome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 49 patients with mega aorta syndrome for the period from May 2015 to March 2021. All patients underwent total aortic replacement from sinotubular junction (with staged aortic root repair, if necessary) to abdominal aorta bifurcation. All surgeries were elective. All patients were divided into two groups: group I (n=33; 67.3%) - staged replacement, group II (n=16; 32.7%) - one-staged replacement of the aorta via thoracophrenolumbotomy. The primary endpoints were mortality, perioperative parameters and complications. We also analyzed long-term freedom from aortic redo surgery and survival rate.

RESULTS

Both groups were comparable by pre-, intra- and postoperative parameters. The interval between surgeries for staged approach was 7.1±2.3 months. Rehabilitation time considering two stages was longer in group I (13±2 vs. 5.5±1.1 months, p=0.0001). Between-stage mortality rate was 12% (n=4). Intraoperative mortality was absent in both groups. In-hospital mortality was 3% and 12% (p=0.25), overall mortality with between-stage interval - 10.2% and 12% (p=1.000), respectively. The follow-up period was similar (18±22.7 (range 1-71) and 23.3±19.1 (range 1-51) months, respectively (p=0.63)). In group I, 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival rate considering between-stage mortality was 89% (95% CI 78-100%), 77.1% (95% CI 60.1-98.8%), 77.1% (95% CI 60.1-98.8%), respectively. In group II, 1-year and 3-year survival rate was 86.5% (95% CI 70.5-100%), p_log-rank=0.88. Overall freedom from redo surgery was 92.9% (95% CI 80.3-100%) vs. 90.9% (95% CI 75.4-100%), p_log-rank=0.072.

CONCLUSION

One-stage total aortic replacement via thoracophrenolumbotomy is safe surgical treatment for mega aorta syndrome, especially in young patients with low surgical risk. Favorable outcomes may be expected in specialized centers with extensive experience in aortic surgery. Compared to staged approach, total aortic replacement eliminates the risks of between-stage aortic rupture. Therefore, it is a worthy alternative to other methods.

Kinetics of radical telomerization of acrylic acid in the presence of 1-octadecanethiol

The oligomer of acrylic acid with a thiooctadecyl end-group was obtained by using octadecyl mercaptan as the chain-transfer agent. The resulting oligomer was characterized by 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy and critical micelle concentration was determined in aqueous solution. The order with respect to the initiator concentration was 0.5 and 1.6 with respect to the monomer concentration. The abnormal reaction order with respect to the monomer concentration was explained by participation in the chain propagation of unassociated and associated forms of acrylic acid, which were stabilized by formation of hydrogen bonds. The kinetic parameters of telomerization were determined. Telomerization with acrylic acid in the non-associated form had lower activation energy and lower pre-exponential factor than in the case of associated forms. The synthesis of the acrylic acid oligomer with a thiooctadecyl end-group having a low critical micelle concentration in water was carried out in one stage and corresponds to the concept of atom economy.

[Rosuvastatin in Coronary Bypass Surgery: Whether Only Secondary Prevention?]

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The increasing number of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is associated with a need for active introduction of methods improving immediate and long-term results of these interventions. Results of a number of studies conducted during recent years allow to consider high dose statin therapy one of such methods. In this article we present results of rosuvastatin administration to patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) prior to surgery.

METHODS

Rosuvastatin (40 mg/day) was given for 4 weeks before CABG to patients who had previously taken simvastatin (20 mg/day).

RESULTS

This regimen was assocaed with reduction of desquamation of endothelium of the intima, reduction of the number of smooth muscle cells in the media, as well as the proliferation index according to the immunohistochemical analysis in sections of the great saphenous vein selected for the coronary anastomosis.

CONCLUSION

It is assumed that the antiproliferative effects of high-dose rosuvastatin therapy may have a positive impact in relation to the viability of a remote arterio-venous grafts.

Effect of 24-Week Treatment with Telmisartan on Myocardial Structure and Function: Relationship to Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Gene

The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of treatment with the angiotensin II receptor blocker telmisartan for 24 weeks on myocardial structure and function in patients with essential hypertension, and the relationship between this effect and the structural polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene. Thirty-five patients with essential hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) without other associated morbidity were included in an open-label, non-comparative study. The patients were treated with telmisartan 40-80 mg once daily. In the final analysis, there were 29 patients who received the full course of treatment and were evaluated echocardiographically before and after treatment by the same blinded investigator, and myocardial structure and function were analysed. The myocardial mass of the left ventricle was determined in M-mode. Assessment of diastolic function of transmitral blood flow was performed using pulsed Doppler echocardiography. All patients were genotyped for insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the ACE gene. Telmisartan produced a significant reduction in left ventricular mass index from 140.4 ± 48.6 to 128.7 ± 40.6 g/m2 that was accompanied by an improvement in characteristics of diastolic function. The decrease in LVH was more significant in the ID genotype group than in the II and DD groups. Thus, prolonged treatment with telmisartan is accompanied by an improvement in myocardial structure, expressed as a reduction in left ventricular mass and function that is more marked in patients with ID genotype of the ACE gene.

[Radiological Aspects of Transition of Russian Areas Affected by the Chernobyl Accident to Normal Activities]

Dynamics of radiation situation in settlements, agriculture and forestry on the Russian Federation areas af- fected by the Chernobyl accident is presented. A set of challenging problems on public radiation protection and rehabilitation of territories was determined. The main objective at a long-term period after the accident is a stage-wise return of the affected areas to normal activity without any radiological criteria restrictions. For practical realization of this process it is necessary to change the national statutes and regulations consid- ering the contemporary international approaches, to pass to the current exposure situation and to establish reference levels, to define criteria of transition of the areas affected after the Chernobyl accident to normal activity. The change of conceptual approaches will allow one to revise the boundaries of settlement zoning and to develop the regulatory framework on procedures of changing their status from radioactively contami- nated zone to normal activity zone; to develop the regulatory framework on the procedures of transition of agricultural and forest lands classified as radioactively contaminated zones to territories where the traditional husbandry is possible. The Russian Federation has positive experience of transition of areas contaminated as a result of the Chernobyl accident to normal activity.

[Disulfiram inhibites the development of cataract in OXYS rats]

Surgical treatment remains the only way to restore vision in patients with cataract; this disorder is the most common reason for vision decline and vision loss in people older than 65 years. It is estimated that a 10-year delay in the development of cataract will reduce the need for surgery twofold. In 2012, Nagai and colleagues reported an anticataract effect of an inhibitor of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase-a widely used antialcoholism drug disulfiram (DSF) - in ICR/f rats with hereditary cataracts. Accordingly, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the influence of DSF on the cataract in OXYS rats, which develop lens alterations similar to senile cataract in humans. Instillation of DSF from age 1,5 to 3,5 months did not prevent but significantly slowed the development of cataracts in OXYS rats. At concentrations of 0,25 % and 0,5 %, DSF reduced the severity of pathological changes in the lens 1,8-fold and was more effective than at the concentration 1 %. These data were consistent with the results of ophthalmoscopic histomorphological examination: the pharmacotherapy strongly reduced the (typical of cataract) structural damage to the capsule of the lens epithelium and to organization of its fibers. Thus, disulfiram is a promising drug for the prevention of senile cataract in humans.

[The Antihypertensive Effect of the Fixed Combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting]

Literature data and results of our own register have indicate that hypertension is one of the most common risk factor in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). But despite proven benefits of control of hypertension after CABG adherence of patients to corresponding recommendations remains low. Fixed combinations of antihypertensive drugs are associated with better compliance. In 30 IHD patients after CABG we studied effects of fixed lisinopril/amlodipine combination. This combination was safe and had high antihypertensive activity. Practically all patients responded to therapy and achieved target level of arterial pressure.

[The Antihypertensive Effect of the Fixed Combination of Lisinopril and Amlodipine in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting]

Literature data and results of our own register have indicate that hypertension is one of the most common risk factor in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). But despite proven benefits of control of hypertension after CABG adherence of patients to corresponding recommendations remains low. Fixed combinations of antihypertensive drugs are associated with better compliance. In 30 IHD patients after CABG we studied effects of fixed lisinoprillamlodipine combination. This combination was safe and had high antihypertensive activity. Practically all patients responded to therapy and achieved target level of arterial pressure.

[The new gene encoding TrfA-type replication initiator has been found on caprolactam/salicylate degradation plasmid pBS270]

The mini-replicon of pseudomonads' caprolactam/salicylate degradation plasmid pBS270 (105 kb, contains incompatibility determinants of P-7 group) has been obtained and its nucleotide sequence has been determined. The new gene encoding TrfA-like replication initiator has been found on this replicon. Poor homology of this replication initiator with known proteins of TrfA-family allows us to classify obtained replicon as IncP-1-like. The pBS270mini reveals chimeric nature.

[IncP-7 plasmids' classification based on structural diversity of their basic replicons]

The structural diversity of basic replicons and repB gene of the IncP-7 plasmids' collection was firstly assessed on the basis of PCR, restriction analysis and partial sequencing. It has been revealed that DNA fragment containing gene for UvrD-like helicase RepB is a part of all known P-7 replicons, but often serves as hot place for diverse IS-elements invasion. The first system of P-7 plasmids' classification has been worked out on the basis of determined repA-oriV-par WABC nucleotide divergency. Most degradation plasmids established to be belonging to large beta-subgroup, streptomycin resistance plasmid Rms148 (IncP-7 archetype)--to alpha-subgroup, carbazole degradation plasmid pCAR1 and NAH/SAL-plasmids from pY-line (Yamal oil deposits)--to gamma-subgroup and CAP-plasmid pBS270 with potentially reduced P-7 replicon--to delta-subgroup. It has been observed that the type of IncP-7 basic replicon molecular organization does not correlate with fixed phenotypic character in most cases, that is plasmids encoding different phenotypic markers could be members of the same P-7 subgroup.

[scpA the new salicylate hydroxylase gene localized on salicylate/caprolactam degradation plasmids]

Both caprolactam and salicylate biodegradation by Pseudomonas salicylate/caprolactam degraders is controlled by large conjugative plasmids (SAL/CAP). Some of these plasmids determined to be the members of IncP-7 group. The new salicylate 1-hydroxylase gene (scpA) on SAL/CAP-plasmids has been detected and partially sequenced. Gene scpA was equally related to closest homologs nahG (NAH7), salA (P. reinekei MT1) and nahU (pND6-1), but identity of scpA to these genes did not exceed 72-74%. Synthesis of salicylate 1-hydroxylase ScpA was not induced by salicylate. This enzyme had wide substrate specificity and exhibited highest specific activity with 4-methylsalicylate and nonsubstituted salicylate. Besides pseudomonad's salicylate degradative conjugative plasmids without "classical" nah2-operon and harboring only salicylate 1-hydroxylase gene nahU have been firstly described.

[Effectiveness and safety of losartan and its combination with amlodipine in therapy of arterial hypertension]

AIM

To estimate effectiveness and safety of losartan and its combination with amlodipine in therapy of arterial hypertension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study based at 6 clinical centres was conducted in two stages. All 160 patients with grade I-II AH (103 women and 57 men aged 54 ± 12 yr) participated in stage 1 of the study and patients of centre No 1 (n = 100) in stage 2. Losartan was used at a dose of 50-100 mg/24 h for 8 weeks (stage 1) and thereafter from week 9 to 26 (stage 2) in combination with amlodipine (5-10 mg/24 hr) if the desired AP level (< 140/90 mmHg) was not achieved. The following parameters were measured: systolic and diastolic AP (SAP and DAP) (office measurement and 24-hr monitoring), pulse wave propagation rate (PWPR), left ventricle mass index (LVMI), thickness of intima-media complex (IMT), blood biochemistry, tolerability of therapy and its side effects.

RESULTS

Losartan alone decreased SAP and DAP from 150 ± 11/91 ± 7 to 132 ± 12/81 ± 8 mm Hg (office measurement) and from 144 ± 10/86 ± 9 to 128 ± 12/76 ± 10 mm Hg (24-hr monitoring); heart rate decreased fom 74 ± 8 to 70 ± 8/min (p < 0.05). SAP and DAP in 66 patients who completed stage 2 was 122 ± 6/73 ± 6 mm Hg or significantly lower than before therapy (147 ± 9/87 ± 9) (p < 0.001). Mean daily decrease of SAP and DAP according to 24-hr monitoring decreased from 144 ± 10 to 128 ± 12 and from 86 ± 9 to 76 ± 10 mm Hg respectively (p < 0.001). The target AP value was reached in 73% of the cases (99 out of 136 patients) after stage 1 and in 95% cases (63 out of 66) after stage 2. The values of LVMI (105 ± 23 and 98 ± 26 g/m2), PWPR from 16 ± 2.1 to 13 ± 3.5 m/s (p < 0.05), IMT (0.76 ± 0.16 and 0.80 ± 42 mm), and microalbuminuria (11.0 ± 1.7 and 8.6 ± 0.7 mg/24 hr) before and after completion of stage 2 were not significantly different in 66 patients (p > 0.05). Biochemical parameters of blood did not appreciably change. The safety profiles of both drugs were on the whole positive. Deaths and adverse reactions were absent barring clinically insignificant side effects in 28 of the 160 patients (17.5%).

CONCLUSION

Losartan and amlodipine are effective and safe agents for AH therapy.

Effect of bovine serum albumin on mitochondrial respiration in the brain and liver of mice and rats

We studied the effect of BSA (in the isolation medium) on the oxidation rate of succinate, glutamate, pyruvate, and α-ketoglutarate by mitochondria of the brain and liver from C57Bl/6g mice and Taconic Sprague Dawley rats. BSA had no effect on liver mitochondrial respiration, but increased oxidation of substrates (particularly of succinate) in brain mitochondria. Therefore, the major effect of BSA on brain mitochondria is manifested in activation of SDH. The improvement of mitochondrial properties in the brain after treatment with BSA is associated with antioxidant activity of this agent. Our results confirm the hypothesis that inhibition of SDH in brain mitochondria is not the artifact. This process serves as a mechanism protecting neurons from free oxygen radicals during succinate oxidation.

[The change in efficiency of protective measures for reduction of 137Cs accumulation by agricultural plants in various periods after the Chernobyl accident]

Dynamics of 137Cs transfer factors to plants and the effects of protective measures on this radionuclide accumulation in the agricultural production is estimated on the example of the south-western regions of Bryansk District. Three periods in decreasing the 137Cs content in plants during 20 years after the Chernobyl accident are identified. The contribution of radionuclide decay, natural biogeochemical processes and protective measures aimed at reduction of the 137Cs accumulation in agricultural plants during various periods after radioactive fallout is shown. Maximum permissible levels of 137Cs contamination of cultivated lands, where crop products meeting current standards may be obtained, at different scopes of protective measures on radioactive-contaminated territories are forecasted. Periods after radioactive fallout, when crop and forage products meeting radiological standards are obtained, are assessed.

Chernobyl radionuclide distribution, migration, and environmental and agricultural impacts

The distribution and migration of radionuclides released into the environment following the Chernobyl accident in 1986 are described. The Chernobyl disaster resulted in the consumption of farm products containing radionuclides as a source of irradiation of the population due to the prevalence of a rural type of human nutrition in the affected region. Economic and radiologic importance of countermeasures for reducing the impacts of the accident are described. The basic radioecological problem is described in which the area where direct radiation contamination of biota was observed is considerably smaller than the zone where concentrations of radionuclides through the food chain exceeded the permissible standards. The radiation-induced effects in biota in the affected area are described. In the long-term post-accident period, the radionuclide distribution between components of ecosystems (including humans) and doses are considered in comparison to a technologically normal situation of nuclear power plant operation. This analysis demonstrates that if radiation standards protect humans, then biota are also adequately protected against ionizing radiation.

An extended critical review of twenty years of countermeasures used in agriculture after the Chernobyl accident

A wide range of different countermeasures has been used to mitigate the consequences of the Chernobyl accident for agriculture in affected regions in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. The paper comprehensively brings together key data on countermeasure application over twenty years for all three countries and critically evaluates the response to the accident with respect to agriculture. The extents of countermeasures implementation in various periods following the ChNPP accident are documented. Examples of best practices and drawbacks in remediation of affected areas are identified. Data on the effectiveness of agricultural countermeasures have been evaluated and the impact of countermeasures implementation to mitigate consequences of the accident has been assessed for the period 1986-2006. Implementation of agricultural countermeasures averted 30-40% of the internal collective dose that would have been received by the residents of affected regions without the use of countermeasures. The current situation in agriculture of areas subjected to contamination following the Chernobyl accident is described. Current and future needs for remediation, including a consideration of various strategies of rehabilitation of affected areas are presented.

[The radioecological situation in the agricultural sphere in the contaminated regions of russia during the long-term after the Chernobyl accident]

The results of the contamination monitoring of the agricultural land and products in 2000-2005 in the regions of Russia affected by the Chernobyl accident are presented. The contribution is assessed of foodstuffs to the formation of internal exposure doses to the population during the long-term after the accident. Prediction is made of the change in the radioecological situation in radioactively contaminated areas.

[Radiological assessment of protective countermeasures in the private sector of rural settlements in the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident area]

The effectiveness of countermeasures on private farms in rural settlements of the Russian Federation affected by the Chernobyl accident for the period of 1986-2005 was assessed. The averted collective doses to the residents of these settlements and the contribution of restrictive and agricultural countermeasures to dose reduction in the rural population have been estimated.

[Functional state of endothelium and oxidant activity of leucocytes in patients with ischemic heart disease after coronary bypass surgery]

Relationship between disorders of endothelial function, proinflammatory activity of leucocytes and effects of therapy with simvastatin or its combination with ezetimibe was studied in 72 patients with ischemic heart disease subjected to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Vascular endothelial function was assessed by ultrasound detection of brachial artery response to its compression, oxidant activity of leucocytes - by chemiluminescent microscopy, severity of coronary artery atherosclerosis - by invasive coronary angiography. Twenty two healthy individuals comprised control group. Endothelial function, activity of leucocytes, and lipid levels were evaluated before and in 12 months after CABG. Patients with multivessel involvement revealed more complex disorders of endothelial function and higher levels of leucocytes activity compared to patients with single-vessel disease. CABG resulted in disappearance of anginal attacks and negative stress echo test during 1-year observation in 80.6% of patients. Patients with recurrent angina after CABG had more severe endothelial and leucocytes disorders. Combined lipid lowering therapy (simvastatin plus ezetimibe) compared to simvastatin alone demonstrated higher efficacy in terms of achievement of target lipid levels, improvement of endothelial function and leucocytes disorders.

Twenty years' application of agricultural countermeasures following the Chernobyl accident: lessons learned

The accident at the Chernobyl NPP (nuclear power plant) was the most serious ever to have occurred in the history of nuclear energy. The consumption of contaminated foodstuffs in affected areas was a significant source of irradiation for the population. A wide range of different countermeasures have been used to reduce exposure of people and to mitigate the consequences of the Chernobyl accident for agriculture in affected regions in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. This paper for the first time summarises key data on countermeasure application over twenty years for all three countries and describes key lessons learnt from this experience.

[The effects of the agricultural countermeasures on the irradiation of the population in the areas affected by the Chernobyl nuclear accident]

Radiological results were evaluated from the introduction of protective agricultural measures in the collective sector of the agroindustrial complex in the Chernobyl affected areas for the period of 1987-2005. The averted collective doses due to the reduction of 137Cs concentration in farm products were estimated, including the contribution to the averted collective dose of different food stuffs consumption.

[Change in the composition of a bacterial association degrading aromatic compounds during oil sludge detoxification in a continuous-flow microbial reactor]

Analysis of oil sludge by direct plating and enrichment cultivation revealed 16 strains degrading aromatic compounds. After 30 days of cultivation in a continuous-flow microbial reactor, 17 more degrader strains were isolated. Genotyping of these strains showed that they were taxonomically diverse, and the range of strains degrading naphthalene, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes depended on isolation methods. Direct plating yielded more aromatic degraders than enrichment cultivation. A microbial association different from that existing before the enrichment cultivation was obtained in the laboratory continuous-flow reactor.

[The use of computer system in the introduction of countermeasures in agriculture after the Chernobyl accident]

In the development of strategies for countermeasures aimed at the rehabilitation of contaminated areas, essential is to identify criteria for assessing their effectiveness and factors influencing the priority of the criteria chosen. A method is suggested for assessing effectiveness of countermeasures in agriculture based on a multicriterium analysis of radiologic, economic, regulatory and socio-psychological indicators characterizing the use of countermeasures. Rating of countermeasures strategies is presented depending on financing of works on the rehabilitation of the Chernobyl affected areas.

[Hydrolysis of heparin by the immobilized enzymatic complex from Streptomyces kurssanovii]

The possibility of obtaining low-molecular-weight heparins using the chitinolytic enzymatic complex immobilized on Silochrom has been demonstrated. The optimal conditions of this process (sodium acetate buffer, pH 7.0-7.5; temperature, 40-45 degrees C; and duration of hydrolysis, 3 h) were determined. Depending on the ratio between heparin and the immobilized enzymatic complex, samples with molecular weight varying from 1.7 to 4.7 kDa, were obtained. These complexes inhibited factor Xa in 2.0-3.7 times more effectively than original heparin.

[Regularities of changes in 137Cs content in milk in the long term after the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident]

Regularities of changes in 137Cs content in cattle milk in the long term after the Chernobyl accident have been analyzed. Contamination levels of haylands and pastures, soil properties, specific features of agricultural production and time after the fallout play a crucial role in 137Cs concentration changes in animal products. Trends have been studied that reflect the influence of these factors and their significance assessed. The half-life periods of 137Cs decay in milk vary over the period of 1994 to 2000 between 7.1 and 14.8 years and approach similar periods calculated for the long term after global radioactive fallout from nuclear weapons tests.

[Comparative analysis of the effectiveness of countermeasures in rural settlements in the long-term period after the accident at the Chernobyl AES]

A comparative analysis of the strategy of countermeasures aimed at reducing exposure doses to the rural population is presented. The effectiveness of the proposed system of countermeasures assessed by criteria such as reduction factor of exposure doses and cost of averted doses. Costs of countermeasures in the rural settlements located in the affected zone are calculated for a long term after the Chernobyl NPP accident.

[Effectiveness of measures directing to lowering the dose of radiation to residents of rural settlements in the extended period after the accident at the Chernobyl atomic energy station]

Justification of the application of countermeasure options in the long term after the Chernobyl accident is presented exemplified by a number of rural settlements located in areas with different fallout density. Protective and rehabilitation countermeasures are ranked based on the criterion such as cost of 1 man.-Sv. Estimated are time periods when the need in countermeasures will persist for settlements located in areas with different contamination levels and internal dose contribution to the overall dose.

Complex I and Parkinson's disease

Complex I of the mammalian electron transfer chain is composed of at least 43 protein subunits, of which 7 are encoded by mtDNA. It catalyzes the transfer of electrons from NADH to ubiquinone and translocates protons from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space. It may also play direct roles in the mitochondrial permeability transition and in cell death pathways. Despite the limitations of current complex I assays, biochemical studies have suggested the presence of a mild, systemic defect of complex I in Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent experimental work has modeled this abnormality using rotenone to systemically inhibit complex I. Chronic rotenone exposure accurately recapitulated the pathological, biochemical, and behavioral features of PD. Thus, relatively subtle complex I abnormalities--either genetic or acquired--may be central to the pathogenesis of PD.

[Methodological approach to countermeasure options in rural settlements in the long terms after the accident at the Chernobyl NPP]

A methodological approach for the justification of rational countermeasure options in agricultural production in the long term after the Chernobyl NPP accident is presented. The decrease in the scale of countermeasures in 1993-1996 in the most affected regions has resulted to a rise in internal exposure doses to the population. A need for further application of protective measures in the long term after the Chernobyl NPP accident is estimated. It has been shown that the remediation of some rural settlements should be continued till 2045.

Chronic systemic pesticide exposure reproduces features of Parkinson's disease

The cause of Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown, but epidemiological studies suggest an association with pesticides and other environmental toxins, and biochemical studies implicate a systemic defect in mitochondrial complex I. We report that chronic, systemic inhibition of complex I by the lipophilic pesticide, rotenone, causes highly selective nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration that is associated behaviorally with hypokinesia and rigidity. Nigral neurons in rotenone-treated rats accumulate fibrillar cytoplasmic inclusions that contain ubiquitin and alpha-synuclein. These results indicate that chronic exposure to a common pesticide can reproduce the anatomical, neurochemical, behavioral and neuropathological features of PD.

[Analysis of risk factors for the formation of internal exposure dose to the rural population and effectiveness of preventive actions in agriculture in the long-term after the Chernobyl Accident]

The regularities in the formation of internal exposure doses to the population living in the Chernobyl affected areas are described. The factors responsible for changes in doses are identified and their significance is assessed. The effects of countermeasures on the radiation situation variations are estimated. The need for an addressed application of countermeasures is shown with taking into account types of rural settlements based on the radioecological factors responsible for dose formation in the population.

[The correction of prostatic hemodynamics in chronic prostatitis]

Prostatic rheography findings evidence for marked disturbances of venous outflow in patients with chronic prostatitis. To correct the hemodynamics, rectal magnitotherapy was used in two regimens: with constant frequency of the magnetic field (5000 Hz) and fluctuating magnetic field (1-20000 Hz). The comparison of the results gave priority to the latter regimen because it provided reduction of the treatment duration and normalization of rheographic parameters in 37 (90.2%) patients. The authors recommend rectal magnitotherapy for combined treatment of chronic prostatitis.

[The effect of naloxone on rhythm disorders and on the conduction system of the heart]

In experimental arrhythmias induced in rabbits by strophanthin, epinephrine, and calcium chloride the high antiarrhythmic efficacy of Naloxone was proved. No antiarrhythmic activity of Naloxone was observed in aconitine models. The intravenous administration of Naloxone to normal adults (0.4 - 0.8 mg) increased the sinus cycle length, sinus node recovery time (SNRT), CSNRT, and sinoatrial conduction time.

Substrate specific effects of calcium on metabolism of rat heart mitochondria

Oxidative metabolism in the heart is tightly coupled to mechanical work. Because this coupling process is believed to involve Ca2+, the roles of mitochondrial Ca2+ in the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation was studied in isolated rat heart mitochondria. The electrical component of the mitochondrial membrane potential (delta psi) and the redox state of the pyridine nucleotides were determined during the oxidation of various substrates under different metabolic states. In the absence of added adenine nucleotides, the NADP+ redox couple was almost completely reduced, regardless of the specific substrate and the presence of Ca2+, whereas NAD+ couple redox state was highly dependent on the substrate type and the presence of Ca2+. Titration of respiration with ADP, in the presence of excess hexokinase and glucose, showed that both respiration and NAD(P)+ reduction were very sensitive to ADP. The maximal enzyme reaction rate of ADP-stimulated respiration Michaelis constants (Km) for ADP were dependent on the particular substrate employed. delta psi was much less sensitive to ADP. With either alpha-ketoglutarate or glutamate as substrate, Ca2+ significantly increased reduction of NAD(P)+.Ca2+ did not influence NAD(P)+ reduction with either acetylcarnitine or pyruvate as substrate. In the presence of ADP, delta psi was increased by Ca2+ at all metabolic states with glutamate plus malate, 0.5 mM alpha-ketoglutarate plus malate, or pyruvate plus malate as substrates. The data presented support the hypothesis that cardiac respiration is controlled by the availability of both Ca2+ and ADP to mitochondria. The data indicate that an increase in substrate supply to mitochondria can increase mitochondrial respiration at given level of ADP. This effect can be produced by Ca2+ with substrates such as glutamate, which utilize alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase activity for oxidation. Increases in respiration by Ca2+ may mitigate an increase in ADP during periods of increased cardiac work.

[The role of the adenine nucleotide carrier in regulating energy and ion permeability of rat liver mitochondria upon cold exposure]

The energy state of rat liver mitochondria on day 10 of cold acclimation, when the body temperature decreases significantly concomitantly with an increase in the content of long-chain acyl-CoAs in the liver, has been studied. State 4 and uncoupling respiration rates increase in parallel; however, the integral potentials of the adenine nucleotide system in the liver diminish. In the presence of oligomycin, ADP (20 and 50 microM) decreases the II(+)-permeability and increases the Ca(2+)-capacity of mitochondria in both control and, in a lesser degree, cold-exposed rats. At 90 microM ADP has the same effect on mitochondria of both groups of rats. Carboxyatractylate abolishes the ADP effect on the mitochondria. In EGTA-containing media carboxyatractylate decreases the respiration rate in oligomycin-treated mitochondria. Palmitoyl-CoA increases the II(+)-permeability of the mitochondrial membrane and decreases the Ca(2+)-capacity of mitochondria. ADP abolished the competitive effects of this long-chain acyl-CoA. Possible involvement of the ATP/ADP antiporter in the thermoregulatory response of liver mitochondria in cold-acclimated rats and the role of fatty acids and long-chain acyl-CoAs in this process are discussed.

Influence of calcium on NADH and succinate oxidation by rat heart submitochondrial particles

Physiological increases in matrix calcium are known to stimulate three mitochondrial dehydrogenases. In mitochondria isolated from rat heart, calcium stimulates rates of State 3 respiration during oxidation of succinate and of several NAD-linked substrates. In this study, we investigated the effects of calcium on NADH dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities since the mechanism of these effects is unresolved. The respiratory activities of intact mitochondria and submitochondrial particles (SMP) were compared during incubation in media containing either ethylene glycol bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) or a Ca2+/EGTA buffer (approximately 1 microM free Ca2+). In intact mitochondria oxidizing 20 mM glutamate plus 2 mM malate, the membrane potential (delta psi) and matrix NAD(P)H were maintained at higher levels, and the maximal rate of ADP-stimulated respiration (State 3) was increased twofold by the presence of calcium. With succinate as substrate, calcium stimulated State 3 respiration but it did not influence the pyridine nucleotides redox state or membrane potential. Stimulation of succinate-supported respiration by addition of 6-10 microM ADP in the presence of hexokinase caused a sudden decrease in NAD(P)H and collapse of delta psi. This effect was not caused by inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase or by opening of the nonspecific pore. Calcium did not influence the oxidation of succinate by SMP containing either activated or nonactivated succinate dehydrogenase. In addition, calcium did not alter the kinetics of succinate dehydrogenase activation. Calcium and magnesium, in the concentration range of 0.02 to 5 mM, did not influence the NADH dehydrogenase activity of SMP. Energization of SMP by oligomycin addition, however, dramatically influenced the kinetic properties of NADH dehydrogenase. It is proposed that in heart mitochondria, calcium does not affect directly the components of electron transport but it may influence the activity of NADH dehydrogenase indirectly by increasing delta psi.

[Regulation of the specific and nonspecific ion conductivity of mitochondria by adenine nucleotide carriers]

The functioning of the adenine nucleotide carrier as a regulated pore which, depending on incubation conditions, operates as either a specific conductivity channel for H+ and K+ ions, or a nonspecific channel for low molecular weight metabolites, is reviewed. Both specific and nonspecific conductivities over this specific channel are controlled by the conformational state of the carrier protein molecule. The conformational states of the ATP/ADP-carrier alter by the specific effect of adenine nucleotides, ATP/ADP transport inhibitors, Ca2+ ions, medium tonicity, and energization of mitochondria. The transition of the ATP/ADP-carrier to the conformational state characterized by nonspecific conductivity is inhibited by cyclosporin A. The roles of the adenine nucleotide carrier in the realization of effects of Ca(2+)-mobilizing hormones and glucagon during mitochondrial function are discussed.

[Control of the energizing of liver mitochondria at the adenine nucleotide carrier level under hypotonic conditions]

The effects of ADP, carboxyatractyloside (CAT) and the local anaesthetic nupercaine on the energy-dependent Ca2+ uptake by rat liver mitochondria oxidizing succinate in the presence of oligomycin were compared, using incubation media of 320 mosM and 120 mosM tonicities. In hypotonic media the mitochondrial Ca2+ capacity was increased by 50%, and the mitochondria were more stable to the damaging effects of Ca + Pi. In the presence of ADP the Ca2+ capacities of mitochondria increased both in normotonic and hypotonic media; however, the absolute amounts of calcium consumed were levelled off. CAT abolished the effect of ADP on the mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and equalized the Ca2+ capacities of rat liver mitochondria in the both media. The local anaesthetic nupercaine also increased the Ca2+ capacity of mitochondria. The effects of nupercaine and ADP were additive. CAT abolished the effect of ADP but not that of nupercaine. Measurements of the intramitochondrial contents of adenine nucleotides showed that in 120 mosM media there was a significant increase in the intramitochondrial content of ATP and the total pool of adenine nucleotides. It was concluded that in hypotonic media the mitochondrial adenine nucleotide carrier exists predominantly in the m-conformation thus facilitating the energization of mitochondria.

[Klofelin intensification of the analgesic effect of ketamine and its influence on the nociceptive reaction of the arterial pressure]

Clonidine was found to potentiate the analgesic effect of ketamine and to inhibit nociceptive hemodynamic reactions in wakeful animals. It is assumed that opiate mechanisms do not underlie the analgesic and autonomotropic effects of clonidine and ketamine combination.