MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Current Vascular Pharmacology' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:04:09 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644360&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272892%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ramírez G, Briceño J, Rojas A Abstract Portal hypertension is a hemodynamic abnormality that involves a high risk of disability as well as a reduced life expectancy in patients with cirrhosis. Progress in the knowledge of pathophysiology of portal hypertension has opened a new perspective for different pharmacological approaches. In this context, the pleiotropic actions of statins on endothelial cell function have emerged as new options to reduce portal pressure levels by targeting multiple molecular pathways involved in hepatic vascular homeostasis. We highlight how statins may target some molecular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension and how these drugs may correct impaired hepatic vascular tone. PMID: 22272892 [PubMed - as supplied by p... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644360 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644359&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272893%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kaur-Knudsen D, Bojesen SE, Nordestgaard BG Abstract The aim of this review is to summarize present knowledge of genetic variation in cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) and 2C9 (CYP2C9) genes and risk of tobacco-related cancer, female cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ischemic vascular disease. The CYP1B1 and CYP2C9 enzymes metabolize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in tobacco smoke and thereby generate disease-causing metabolites suggested to be important in tobacco-related diseases. Furthermore, CYP1B1 also metabolizes estrogen while CYP2C9 metabolizes arachidonic acid, both creating metabolites potentially important in risk of female cancer or ischemic vascular disease. Genetic variation in genes coding for CYP1B1 and CYP2C9 enzymes have shown altered e... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644359 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644358&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272894%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: Statins are associated with several beneficial actions in patients undergoing open surgical or endovascular procedures. Nevertheless, statin use in vascular patients still remains underutilized and suboptimal. Ideally, statins should be initiated a minimum of 2 weeks before the procedure. Extended-release formulas may be preferable perioperatively to cover the first 1-2 days after the procedure when oral intake may not be feasible. Statins should be administered to all vascular disease patients, whether they are managed conservatively or are undergoing open surgical or endovascular procedures. PMID: 22272894 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644358 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644357&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272895%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Grove EL, Gregersen S Abstract Platelets are key players in arterial thrombosis, and oral antiplatelet therapy is a cornerstone in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular events. However, although currently approved antiplatelet drugs have proved successful in reducing cardiovascular events, platelet-dependent thrombosis remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. It is well-known that patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have an increased risk of cardiovascular events and, therefore, understanding the mechanism of action and safety profile of antiplatelet drugs in this high-risk population is of particular interest. There is considerable inter-individual variation in the efficacy of established antiplatelet drugs,... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644357 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644356&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272896%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Athyros VG, Katsiki N, Karagiannis A, Mikhailidis DP Abstract Current evidence suggests that chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an excess risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. In patients with stage 3 CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate-eGFR 30-59 ml/min/1.73m2) lifestyle measures and appropriate drugs may reduce CVD risk and stabilize (or even reverse) renal function deterioration. Furthermore, CKD is included in recent international guidelines as a population at high CVD risk. The aim should be to effectively reduce CVD risk as well as progression of CKD. PMID: 22272896 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644356 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644355&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272897%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Grassi G, Seravalle G, Mancia G Abstract Several lines of evidence show that blood pressure (BP) control in treated hypertensive patients is largely unsatisfactory and that this depends on a variety of factors, such as the poor patient's compliance, insufficient use of combination drug treatment as well as true difficulties in achieving well controlled BP. This review article will be focused on the main features of BP control by discussing the data obtained in clinical trials as well as the results available in clinical practice. The paper will also discuss the possible factors responsible for these findings as well as the favourable outcome on cardiovascular risk profile of an effective control of elevated BP. The possible approaches for controlling elevated BP values wil... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644355 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644354&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272898%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Khavandi K, Brownirgg J, Hankir M, Sood H, Younis N, Worth J, Greenstein A, Soran H, Wierzbicki A, Goldsmith DJ Abstract In recent decades, we have seen a surge in the incidence of diabetes in industrialized nations; a threat which has now extended to the developing world. Type 2 diabetes is associated with significant microvascular and macrovascular disease, with considerable impact on morbidity and mortality. Recent evidence has cast uncertainty on the benefits of very tight glycaemic goals in these individuals. The natural history of disease follows an insidious course from disordered glucose metabolism in a pre-diabetic state, often with metabolic syndrome and obesity, before proceeding to diabetes mellitus. In the research setting, lifestyle, pharmacological and surgi... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644354 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644353&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272899%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stellos K, Katsiki N, Tatsidou P, Bigalke B, Laske C Abstract Cardiovascular risk factors are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and with cognitive dysfunction. However, the precise pathogenic mechanisms responsible for this association remain elusive. In the present study, CAD patients with cognitive impairment showed significantly higher platelet activation compared with CAD patients without cognitive impairment. In addition, we identified platelet activity to be a significant independent predictor for the severity of cognitive impairment in these patients. We discuss the link between platelet hyperactivity and dementia (including Alzheimer`s disease) based on the literature and our findings. We also discuss the potential mechanisms involved. This link may bec... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644353 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644352&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272900%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Skóra B, Gluba A, Banach M, Rozentryt P, Poloński L, Rysz J Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The available data suggest that efforts to reduce mortality in the CKD population should be focused on treatment and prevention of, among others, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Accelerated atherosclerosis present in CKD patients also leads to a decline in renal function. Definite data concerning the treatment of heart failure in CKD patients are lacking, because patients with significant renal impairment have mostly been excluded from randomized studies. Nevertheless, it seems that CKD patients should receive similar cardiovascular treatment to that used in patients with normal kidney func... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644352 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644351&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272901%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Piechota M, Barylski M, Hannam S, Piechota-Urbańska M, Banach M Abstract Statins are well-established and effective drugs in the treatment of hyperlipidemias. However the effects of statins extend beyond lipid-lowering. The pleiotropic effects of statins have been shown to modify inflammatory cell signaling of the immune response to infection. Statins have emerged as potential immunomodulatory and antioxidant agents that might impact on sepsis outcomes. It was postulated that statins may be candidates for the treatment of sepsis. Recent animal and human data suggest that statin therapy might be beneficial in patients before the onset of sepsis or in its initial period, but should be used with care when patients are diagnosed with severe sepsis or septic shock. Some analys... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644351 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644350&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272902%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang M, Wang HH, Lakatta EG Abstract Arterial inflammation and remodeling, important sequellae of advancing age, are linked to the pathogenesis of age-associated arterial diseases e.g. hypertension, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders. Recently, high-throughput proteomic screening has identified milk fat globule epidermal growth factor VIII (MFG-E8) as a novel local biomarker for aging arterial walls. Additional studies have shown that MFG-E8 is also an element of the arterial inflammatory signaling network. The transcription, translation, and signaling levels of MFG-E8 are increased in aged, atherosclerotic, hypertensive, and diabetic arterial walls in vivo as well as activated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and a subset of macrophages in vitro. In VSMC, MFG-E8 ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644350 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644349&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272903%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ferroni P, Della-Morte D, Palmirotta R, Rundek T, Guadagni F, Roselli M Abstract Essential hypertension may be a consequence of structural and functional alterations of the microvascular network growth resulting partly from abnormal regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), one of the most potent known angiogenic factors. As data from clinical trials on anti-VEGF drugs are becoming available, it is increasingly recognized that VEGF, in addition to being a proliferation and migration factor, is also a maintenance and protection factor for endothelial cells, whose altered regulation may cause a disturbance of vascular homeostasis. Elevated VEGF levels in hypertensive patients were shown to correlate with cardiovascular risk, early microvascular and target orga... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644349 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644348&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272904%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zhou Z, Yee DL, Guchhait P Abstract Intravascular hemolysis is a major component of anemia in sickle cell disease (SCD). Plasma extracellular hemoglobin (ECHb) liberated by intravascular hemolysis has deleterious effects on the vasculature. ECHb scavenges nitric oxide (NO) and promotes the pathogenesis of several clinical events including pulmonary hypertension, priapism and non-hemorrhagic strokes. ECHb reduces the bioavailability of NO which down-regulates platelet activation, leading to platelet aggregation and vascular clot formation. Recently we have identified an additional mechanism whereby increased hemolysis can lead to a prothrombotic state in SCD by increasing the activity of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a multimeric plasma glycoprotein secreted by the endotheli... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644348 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644347&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272905%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: Differences of expressions in biomarker levels were found between the 2 genders. Further investigation should be promoted. PMID: 22272905 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644347 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644346&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272906%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Karras S, Goulis DG, Mintziori G, Katsiki N, Tzotzas T Abstract Energy homeostasis in mammalians is a teleological process regulated by the interplay between caloric intake and energy expenditure. Incretins are a significant component of the complex homeostatic network regulating the metabolic state in humans. This narrative review will focus on the basic concepts regarding incretin physiology and their regulatory feedback mechanisms affecting energy homeostasis. In this context, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) promotes satiety and weight loss through centrally and peripherally mediated pathways. On the other hand, gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) is implicated in energy storage by its actions on adipose tissue. Understanding this biological model requires a holistic appro... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644346 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644342&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272907%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saha SP, Whayne TF, Mukherjee D Abstract There is occurring a progressive increase in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the United States and around the World. This is undoubtedly associated with deterioration in health status and an increase in cardiovascular risk factors. There are multiple old and new antithrombotic and anticoagulation medications that have been used for the treatment of PAD. Several are considered in this review. The purpose of antithrombotics in surgery is the prevention of thrombosis of surgical bypass grafts in order to help maintain their patency. Multiple different medication approaches can be made in association with surgery. Just as in the case of peripheral vascular surgery, thrombosis also plagues the long-term maintenance of patency follow... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644342 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644341&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272908%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cugno M PMID: 22272908 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644341 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644341 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644340&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272909%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Marzano AV, Tedeschi A, Polloni I, Crosti C, Cugno M Abstract Inflammation and coagulation systems are simultaneously activated in autoimmune and immune-mediated skin disorders, and the cross-talk that amplifies and maintains their activation seems to have both local and systemic implications. This interplay occurs in bullous pemphigoid (BP), the prototype autoimmune blistering disease in which eosinophil recruitment and thrombin generation locally contribute to the formation of bullae and inflammatory tissue damage. Moreover, the systemic activation of coagulation may explain the increased thrombotic risk observed in BP patients. Atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronically relapsing immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease, also involves the local and systemic activation of co... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644340 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644339&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272910%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stadnicki A Abstract Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC) are idiopathic, intestinal and systemic inflammatory disorders which are immunologically mediated with the activation of plasma proteolytic cascades. The activation of coagulation in IBD is related to the activity and colonic extension of the disease, but may still be persistent in a quiescent stage. Factor XIII seems to be as much a coagulation factor as a connective tissue factor which may contribute to intestinal healing. Fibrinolytic capacity is reduced in systemic circulation of IBD patients. Platelets activation is a feature of IBD which contributes to a pathogenic inflammatory sequel. There is evidence that coagulation activation may in turn mediate and amplify inflam... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644339 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644338&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272911%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maino A, Rossio R, Cugno M, Marzano AV, Tedeschi A Abstract Throughout the past decade, a possible role of eosinophils in blood coagulation and thrombosis has been suggested. We conducted a Pubmed (MEDLINE) search of case and series referring to any kind of thrombotic events described in three conditions characterised by persistent blood eosinophilia i.e. the hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES), the Churg Strauss syndrome (CSS), and parasitic infestations from 1966 to date. One hundred and ninety-two articles were found regarding thrombotic events in HES and CSS, and 209 cases of thrombosis were extracted. One hundred and seventy-seven articles dealing with parasitic diseases and thrombosis were found, but only 15 manuscripts reporting thrombosis of unknown origin in 22 patie... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644338 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644337&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272912%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chighizola C, Schioppo T, Ingegnoli F, Meroni PL Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory polyarthritis with an increased mortality burden, largely attributable to cardiovascular disease. There is extensive evidence that patients with RA experience accelerated atherosclerosis, which is considered as the main responsible of this increased cardiovascular burden. Nowadays atherosclerosis is regarded as an inflammatory condition: hence, the cumulative inflammatory burden of RA, with the abundant synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines, contributes directly to the early formation of the atheromatic plaque. It is therefore reasonable to postulate that, by alleviating inflammation, drugs commonly used in RA treatment may ameliorate the cardiovascular profile of... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644337 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644334&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272913%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cugno M, Asero R, Tedeschi A, Lazzari R, Marzano AV Abstract Urticaria is a skin disease characterised by short-lived surface swellings of the dermis (wheals) frequently accompanied by itching. It is classified as acute or chronic depending on whether the wheal recurrence occurs for less or more than six weeks. Acute urticaria is often due to a hypersensitivity reaction, whereas about 50% of the cases of chronic urticaria are regarded as autoimmune. Urticaria may occur alone or in association with a deeper swelling (angioedema) involving the subcutaneous and/or submucosal tissues, and last from hours to a few days. Angioedema can also develop alone, and may be idiopathic or be caused by allergies, inherited or acquired deficiencies of C1-inhibitor protein, or adverse drug ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644334 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644330&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22272914%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: van der Poll T, Levi M Abstract Sepsis results in the concurrent activation of inflammatory and procoagulant pathways. Bacterial products and proinflammatory cytokines trigger the coagulation system primarily via induction of tissue factor. During sepsis, activation of coagulation is accompanied by impaired function of major anticoagulant mechanisms, including antithrombin, the protein C system and fibrinolysis. Protease activated receptors (PARs) form the molecular connection between coagulation and inflammation, and especially PAR1 seems to play an eminent role in sepsis pathogenesis. Activated protein C (APC) can cleave PAR1 when associated with either the endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) or CD11b/CD18, resulting in broad cytoprotective effects mediated by sphingos... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644330 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607304&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22250844%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kostapanos MS, Katsiki N, Elisaf MS, Mikhailidis DP PMID: 22250844 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607304 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607321&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239622%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Elisaf MS PMID: 22239622 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607321 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607321 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607320&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239623%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: There are promising results on the effect of aliskiren in diabetic patients, but the available evidence is limited so far. This is a poorly investigated field with few RCTs and new studies focusing on "hard" outcomes are needed. PMID: 22239623 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607320 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607319&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239624%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ntzani EE, Kavvoura FK Abstract Type-2 diabetes is a complex disease modified by a number of environmental and genetic factors that contribute at varying degrees to the final phenotype and possibly interact with each other. Deciphering the genetic background of the disease serves multiple goals ranging from expanding our knowledge on the disease pathogenesis and identifying future targets for drug development to successfully personalize clinical disease prediction and prognosis. In the present review, we aimed to systematically appraise the current evidence on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on type-2 diabetes, identify the gene targets that have been assessed to-date, and discuss issues that stem from the rapid growth of this literature. Our search identified more ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607319 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607318&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239625%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tziomalos K, Athyros VG, Karagiannis A Abstract Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common disorder and its prevalence is expected to increase due to the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. NAFLD is associated with increased mortality rates and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in these patients. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is not completely elucidated but insulin resistance and oxidative stress appear to play a major role. NAFLD is more prevalent and more severe in patients with T2DM. A multitude of pharmacological agents have been evaluated in NAFLD but most studies were small, short-term and yielded unsatisfactory results in terms of efficacy. Patients with T2DM and NAFLD appear to be even less responsive to the e... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607318 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607317&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239626%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kalaitzidis RG, Bakris GL Abstract The goal of treating hypertension in patients with diabetes is reduction of macrovascular and microvascular complications. Most current guidelines recommend more aggressive treatment goals with blood pressure (BP) targets of <130/80mmHg. Retrospective data analyses suggest an association between a lower BP and slower declines in chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as greater cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Such recommendations, however, are not supported by appropriately powered prospective outcome trials. Indeed, several important questions regarding aggressive lowering of BP levels are still unanswered. Major limitations of most existing clinical trials of BP lowering in diabetes is the failure t... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607317 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607316&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239627%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tona F, Marra MP, Fedrigo M, Famoso G, Bellu R, Thiene G, Gerosa G, Angelini A, Iliceto S Abstract Heart transplantation (HTx) is the treatment of choice for patients with refractory end-stage heart diseases. Although the procedure is considered effective in extending and improving quality of life, the onset of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) continues to limit the long-term success of HTx. Emerging data indicate that the endothelium plays a significant role in the onset, progression and complication of this multifactorial disease, with both immunologic and non-immunologic risk factors contributing to its development. Improving our understanding of the integral role of the coronary microcirculation in CAV is of crucial clinical interest since it could provide further ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607316 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607315&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239628%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Suuronen EJ PMID: 22239628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607315 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607314&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239629%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cubbon RM, Ali N, Sengupta A, Kearney MT Abstract Diabetes and pre-diabetes are major contributors to cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Insulin resistance is a key pathophysiological determinant of the metabolic and vascular abnormalities noted in these disorders. Ineffective vascular repair is likely to be an important contributor to the development of endothelial dysfunction, and subsequently atherosclerosis, in patients with diabetes. Beyond the systemic effects of the insulin resistant phenotype, including factors such as dysglycaemia and inflammation, cellular insulin resistance is emerging as an important factor in diabetic vascular disease. Disordered signal transduction via the PI3-kinase/Akt and MAP-kinase cascades is a hallmark of cellular insulin resistanc... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607314 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607313&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239630%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Uemura M, Kasahara Y, Nagatsuka K, Taguchi A Abstract Cell-based therapies are a novel approach for regeneration of microvasculature. We have shown that administration of CD34-positive cells, the rich cell fraction of endothelial progenitor cells, after stroke induces angiogenesis that results in enhanced endogenous neurogenesis and functional recovery in a murine model. Moreover, injury-induced neurogenesis occurs in the human brain following a stroke during the acute to sub-acute period. Based on these observations, clinical trials of cell therapies that aim to regenerate micro-circulation in the brain following a stroke are ongoing worldwide. This review summarizes the current basic research findings about the link between angiogenesis and neurogenesis in the post-strok... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607313 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607312&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239631%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lavoie JR, Stewart DJ Abstract Since their initial discovery, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have held tremendous promise for cell therapy for a variety of cardiovascular diseases including pulmonary hypertension. The clinical experience to date suggests that circulating or bone marrow mononuclear cells and EPCs can induce neovascularization, and enhance cardiac repair after myocardial function, as well as improvements in the hemodynamic and functional status of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension. Although these results are promising, the overall magnitude of the clinical benefits seen in these trials appear to be rather modest. Indeed, strong experimental evidence points towards a reduction in mobilization and impairment in function of EPCs in p... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607312 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607311&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239632%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sellke FW, Lassaletta AD, Robich MP, Chu LM, Ruel M Abstract Cardiovascular disease continues to be a major cause of death in the Western world and has been extending into areas previously seemingly immune to its effects. Catheter-based interventions and coronary artery bypass surgery have markedly improved cardiovascular health, but a number of patients with coronary artery disease cannot undergo repeated interventions or they receive an incomplete revascularization with standard revascularization methods, which has been associated with a poor clinical outcome. Despite early demonstration of improvement in myocardial perfusion and function with growth factor, gene therapy or cellular therapies, clinical studies have found little if any real benefit. The discordance betwee... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607311 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607310&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239633%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Albiero M, Fadini GP Abstract Bone marrow (BM) holds a pool of stem and progenitor cells whose role is not limited to hematopoiesis. Indeed, growing evidences showed that BM-derived progenitors could contribute to various extents to cardiovascular homeostasis. Notably, diabetic patients experience an intrinsic defect of the progenitor pool, whereas some recent works point directly to an intrinsic defect of the BM, resulting in defective mobilization and impaired functions of progenitors. These defects could have important pathophysiological roles in the development of diabetic complications. An integrated approach, which enhances mobilization of progenitors and improves their functions, could represent a novel method to improve cardiovascular repair by endogenous progenito... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607310 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607309&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239634%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tiwari-Pandey R, Toeg H, Sellke FW, Ruel M Abstract Due to the very limited ability of cardiac tissue to self-regenerate, the replacement of damaged cardiomyocytes and the repair of damaged extracellular matrix (ECM) are highly sought-after therapeutic strategies. Cell transplantation in ECM scaffolds has been shown to improve retention, phenotype, and function in vascular and muscle repair. In addition to cellular patches that involve the use of biomaterial scaffolds in combination with cells, acellular patches may have a role in intrinsically recruiting cells to damaged areas. This review focuses on the clinically relevant ECM scaffolds, their interactions with cells to stimulate functions such as adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation, and their intrins... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607309 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607308&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239635%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saik JE, McHale MK, West JL Abstract Engineered tissue constructs are inherently limited by their lack of microvascularization. Evidence suggests that combining a scaffold material with cells and their cell-secreted signals instigates tubule formation, and various strategies can be employed to tailor the vascular response. This review focuses on rationally designed materials capable of supporting functional neovessel formation and stabilization. Biomaterial scaffolds and their use as growth factor delivery systems are discussed, as well as other functional enhancement strategies to direct cellular responses for effective formation of a mature vascular network. PMID: 22239635 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607308 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607307&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239636%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mihardja SS, Lee RJ Abstract Myocardial repair remains a major challenge for both cellular and tissue engineering approaches. Several studies have been conducted looking at utilizing extracellular matrix-based therapies to promote repair after a myocardial infarction. In this review, strategies for treating myocardial infarctions using extracellular matrix-derived peptides are discussed. Using an ischemia/reperfusion myocardial infarction rodent model, we showed that extracellular-matrix-derived peptides were able to induce angiogenesis and alter the negative remodeling seen after a myocardial infarction. This therapy opens up a potentially new non-invasive strategy for repairing damaged cardiac tissue. PMID: 22239636 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Curren... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607307 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607306&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239637%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McBane JE, Sharifpoor S, Labow RS, Ruel M, Suuronen EJ, Santerre JP Abstract Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death and hospitalization worldwide. The need for small caliber vessels (<6mm) to treat CVD patients has grown; however the availability of autologous vessels in cardiac and peripheral bypass candidates is limited. The search for an alternative vessel source is widespread with both natural and synthetic tissue engineered materials being investigated as scaffolds. Despite decades of exhaustive studies with decellularized extracellular matrices (ECM) and synthetic graft materials, the field remains in search of a commercially viable biomaterial construct substitute. While the previous materials have been assessed by evaluating their compatibility... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607306 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607305&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239638%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ransohoff JD, Wu JC Abstract Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therapeutic angiogenesis aims to treat ischemic myocardial and peripheral tissues by delivery of recombinant proteins, genes, or cells to promote neoangiogenesis. Concerns regarding the safety, side effects, and efficacy of protein and gene transfer studies have led to the development of cell-based therapies as alternative approaches to induce vascular regeneration and to improve function of damaged tissue. Cell-based therapies may be improved by the application of imaging technologies that allow investigators to track the location, engraftment, and survival of the administered cell population. The past decade of investigations has produc... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607305 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447472&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112347%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tousoulis D PMID: 22112347 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447472 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447471&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112348%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kampoli AM, Tousoulis D, Tentolouris C, Stefanadis C Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a soluble gas continuously synthesized from the amino acid L-arginine in endothelial cells by the constitutive calcium-calmodulin-dependent enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Endothelial dysfunction has been identified as a major mechanism involved in all the stages of atherogenesis. Evaluation of endothelial function seems to have a predictive role in humans, and therapeutic interventions improving nitric oxide bioavailability in the vasculature, may improve the long-term outcome in healthy individuals, high-risk subjects or patients with advanced atherosclerosis. Several therapeutic strategies (including statins, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptors blockers, ins... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447471 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447470&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112349%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lee R, Channon KM, Antoniades C Abstract Persistent oxidative stress in the vascular wall may lead to endothelial dysfunction, a pathological process widely implicated in the morbidities observed in a spectrum of cardiovascular disease. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is regulated by various oxidase enzymes and mitochondrial electron transport mechanisms. Nitric oxide (NO) is a key mediator of endothelial function via its effect on endothelium dependent vascular relaxation. Therapeutic interventions that aimed to increase NO bioavailability in the vasculature may improve the long term cardiovascular outcome for healthy individuals, high-risk subjects, and patients with advanced atherosclerosis. Current therapeutic strategies focus on enhancing synthesis or ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447470 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447470 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447469&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112350%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tousoulis D, Kampoli AM, Tentolouris C, Papageorgiou N, Stefanadis C Abstract The vascular endothelium is a monolayer of cells between the vessel lumen and the vascular smooth muscle cells. Nitric oxide (NO) is a soluble gas continuously synthesized from the amino acid L-arginine in endothelial cells by the constitutive calcium-calmodulin-dependent enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This substance has a wide range of biological properties that maintain vascular homeostasis, including modulation of vascular dilator tone, regulation of local cell growth, and protection of the vessel from injurious consequences of platelets and cells circulating in blood, playing in this way a crucial role in the normal endothelial function. A growing list of conditions, including those comm... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447469 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447468&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112351%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ghiadoni L, Taddei S, Virdis A Abstract A large body of evidence indicates that patients with essential hypertension are characterized by endothelial dysfunction mediated by an impaired NO availability secondary to oxidative stress production. A dysfunctioning endothelium is an early marker of the development of atherosclerotic changes and can also contribute to cardiovascular events. Vascular reactivity tests represent the most widely used methods in the clinical assessment of endothelial function. In the last two decades, many studies have evaluated the endothelium in hypertensive patients, using different techniques. Several methodologies were developed to study microcirculation (resistance arteries and arterioles) and macrocirculation (conduit arteries), both in corona... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447468 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447467&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112352%26dopt%3DAbstract "Endothelial Progenitor Cells" as a Therapeutic Strategy in Cardiovascular Disease. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2011 Nov 21; Authors: Kränkel N, Lüscher TF, Landmesser U Abstract Cardiovascular atherosclerotic and ischemic diseases constitute the leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout middle- and high-income countries. More efficient preventive and regenerative therapeutic strategies are therefore urgently needed. The repeated finding that putative "endothelial progenitor cells" (EPCs) can efficiently promote angiogenesis and restore perfusion of ischemic tissues has provoked a wealth of studies evaluating and developing their therapeutic potential. In the present review, we discuss the growing knowledge about various distinct cell populations which have been collec... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447467 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447466&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112353%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tziomalos K, Athyros VG, Karagiannis A, Mikhailidis DP Abstract Endothelial dysfunction represents an important step in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. All vascular risk factors can induce endothelial dysfunction, which in turn results in the loss of the protective effects of the endothelium culminating in the development of atherosclerosis. Dyslipidemia is a major vascular risk factor and is associated with endothelial dysfunction. Several studies showed that lipid-lowering agents exert beneficial effects on endothelial function in different populations at increased vascular risk, including patients without dyslipidemia. Therefore, other actions besides lipid-profile modification appear to be implicated in this benefit. However, it is unclear whether the improvement ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447466 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447465&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112354%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tousoulis D, Kampoli AM, Stefanadis C Abstract Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have a high prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD), as diabetes is implicated in the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Endothelial dysfunction is one of the precursor key steps in the development of atherosclerosis in diabetic subjects. Decreased nitric oxide (NO) production, increased oxidative stress and impaired function of endothelial progenitor cells are the main mechanisms involved in the accelerated atherosclerotic process observed in type 2 DM patients. Therapeutic approaches including classic agents such as statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), antioxidants and novel agents such as tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), asym... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447465 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447464&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112355%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Papageorgiou N, Tousoulis D, Androulakis E, Giotakis A, Siasos G, Latsios G, Stefanadis C Abstract Atherosclerotic disease remains a major health problem around the world. The central role of endothelium and inflammation in all stages of the atherosclerotic process is advocated by significant data. Moreover, clinical evidence supports the prognostic potential of endothelial dysfunction for the development of ischemic events and for adverse outcome after acute coronary syndromes. Interestingly, suboptimal lifestyle choices are implicated in the development and deterioration of this endothelial dysfunction, a fact with significant impact, considering the contribution of endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis and its complications. Many epidemiological research studies, u... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447464 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447463&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22112356%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lewandowski AJ, Davis EF, Lazdam M, Leeson P Abstract Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a key biological process underlying the development of cardiovascular disease and therefore of potential importance as a target for gene-based therapy. Modification of nitric oxide bioavailability through gene therapy is possible in animal studies and of clinical relevance because of the central role for nitric oxide in vascular homeostasis. However, most clinical trials have so far focused on endothelial-related pathways, in particular, vascular endothelial growth factor, to induce angiogenesis, with variable results. The slow progress of the development of gene-therapy targeted at the endothelium relates to a range of complexities of design of therapy including mode of gene delivery... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447463 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5447463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348235&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022765%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fabbian F, De Giorgi A, Pala M, Tiseo R, Portaluppi F, Imberti D, Manfredini R Abstract Venous thromboembolism is a common condition and low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) are widely used for its treatment. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also a frequent disease especially in subjects with comorbidities admitted to internal medicine wards. LMWHs are eliminated by the kidney and their half-life is increased in renal impairment. Based on a series of available studies we analyzed the relationship between treatment with LMWHs and different degrees of renal impairment including end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In order to reduce haemorrhagic risk, the LMWH dose should be reduced in CKD, even if reducing LMWH dose could impair drug effectiveness. Further studies relating glome... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348235 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348234&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022766%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guzmán-Gutiérrez E, Abarzúa F, Belmar C, Nien JK, Ramírez MA, Arroyo P, Salomón C, Westermeier F, Puebla C, Leiva A, Casanello P, Sobrevia L Abstract Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a syndrome compromising the health of the mother and the fetus. Endothelial damage and reduced metabolism of the vasodilator adenosine occur and fetal hyperinsulinemia associated with deficient insulin response and a metabolic rather than mitogenic phenotype is characteristic of this pathology. These phenomena lead to endothelial dysfunction of the fetoplacental unit. Major databases were searched for the relevant literature in the field. Special attention was placed on publications related with diabetes and hormone/metabolic disorders. We aimed to summarize the information regardin... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348234 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348233&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022767%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Olivieri F, Mazzanti I, Abbatecola AM, Recchioni R, Marcheselli F, Procopio AD, Antonicelli R Abstract Statins are well established drugs for primary and secondary prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite the well-known ability of statins to lower cholesterol, it is now clear that clinical benefits are also substantially higher than expected and several clinical trials, like JUPITER (Justification for the Use of Statins in Primary Prevention: An Intervention Trial Evaluating Rosuvastatin trial) have indicated that such clinical effects are independent of cholesterol reduction. These cholesterol-independent actions have been named "pleiotropic effects" and include: anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of immune activation, stabilization of at... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348233 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348232&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022768%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Catapano AL Abstract 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are the most widely prescribed therapeutic class of drugs worldwide, with established clinical benefits both in terms of improving serum lipid profiles and reducing cardiovascular events and mortality. Although statins have a favorable risk-to-benefit ratio, they have the potential to cause adverse events which can result in muscular inflammation (myositis), muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) and, ultimately, kidney failure. While the incidence of rhabdomyolysis is approximately 3.4 cases per 100,000 person-years with standard-dose statin therapy, the risk of developing the condition increases substantially at higher therapeutic doses. This effect may be exacerbated by prescribing stat... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348232 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348231&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022769%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wehland M, Grosse J, Simonsen U, Infanger M, Bauer J, Grimm D Abstract This review provides a systematic overview of the influence of the third generation beta-adrenoceptor antagonists on vascular and/or endothelial function at a cellular level as well as of the advantages of their application in hypertension, heart failure and coronary artery disease. Drugs antagonizing the beta-adrenoceptors have been in use for the treatment of hypertension for decades. In systolic heart failure and post-myocardial infarction, beta-adrenoceptor antagonists were proven to be effective in decreasing the number of deaths and improving morbidity. However, beta-adrenoceptor antagonists are a heterogeneous drug group, consisting of agents with different selectivity for adrenoceptors and/or ad... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348231 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348230&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022770%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ronconi V, Turchi F, Appolloni G, di Tizio V, Boscaro M, Giacchetti G Abstract Several lines of evidence suggest a detrimental effect of aldosterone excess on the development of metabolic alterations. Glucose metabolism derangements due to aldosterone action are frequently observed not only in patients with primary aldosteronism but also in patients with obesity. A contribution to the hyperaldosteronism observed in obese subjects can be attributed, at least in part, to the action of still unidentified adipocyte-derived factor. Aldosterone, through genomic and non-genomic actions contributes to induce several abnormalities: pancreatic fibrosis, impaired beta cell function, as well as reduced skeletal muscle and adipose tissue insulin sensitivity. Oxidative stress, systemic ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348230 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348229&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022771%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Grassi G, Seravalle G, Mancia G Abstract Several lines of evidence show that blood pressure (BP) control in treated hypertensive patients is largely unsatisfactory and that this depends on a variety of factors, such as the poor patient's compliance, insufficient use of combination drug treatment as well as true difficulties in achieving well controlled BP. This review article will be focused on the main features of BP control by discussing the data obtained in clinical trials as well as the results available in clinical practice. The paper will also discuss the possible factors responsible for these findings as well as the favourable outcome on cardiovascular risk profile of an effective control of elevated BP. The possible approaches for controlling elevated BP values wil... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348229 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348228&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022772%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ling G Abstract In 2004, approximately 9 million people worldwide experienced a stroke, with the majority being ischemic in nature. While the prognosis for recovery can be good, long-term survival and functional outcome can be improved. Stroke survivors are at an increased risk for recurrent stroke and other ischemic vascular events and face significant cross-risk for atherothrombotic conditions affecting the coronary and peripheral vascular beds. As such, the secondary prevention of ischemic events in patients with stroke has focused on the treatment of atherosclerosis as a whole, with antiplatelet therapy playing a key role. There is some controversy regarding optimal antiplatelet therapy following stroke. The appropriate use of specific agents, the impact of stroke type... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348228 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348227&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022773%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Swislocki AL, Siegel D, Jialal I Abstract The Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) confers a greater risk for both diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Both insulin resistance and low grade inflammation appear to be pivotal in the pathogenesis of this disorder. The cornerstone of treatment presently is therapeutic lifestyle change with the emphasis on weight loss by diet and exercise. It appears that the evidence base will support statins as first line therapy for the dyslipidemia. Also, there is a limited role for both bile acid sequestrants and fibrates in certain subgroup of patients. It would appear that the Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are the preferred therapies for hypertension but invariably a combination therapy... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348227 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348226&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022774%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Starakis I, Panos G, Mazokopakis E Abstract Although infective endocarditis (IE) is not the most frequent infection seen in intravenous (IV) drug abusers (IVDAs), health care providers should always regard it as a possible diagnosis in this population. Many researchers have tried to elucidate the clinical, epidemiologic, immunologic and pathogenetic aspects of this entity. Right-sided endocarditis accounts for almost 10% of all IE episodes and has been most commonly interrelated with IV use of illicit substances. On the other hand, recent reports have proposed that left-sided valve participation is seen more often now than in the past. While, our progress in medicine, new diagnostic criteria and especially modern imaging techniques have broadened our ability to recognize I... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348226 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348225&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022775%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zhou Z, Dong JF Abstract Resting endothelial cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels have anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory actions, critical for maintaining normal vascular homeostasis. Upon localized or systemic stimulation, endothelial cells are activated to secrete bioactive molecules; among them is von Willebrand factor (VWF). Freshly secreted VWF is enriched in ultra-large (UL) forms that are anchored to endothelial cells to form long string-like structures, to which platelets tether and aggregate. This prothrombotic event is normally prevented by proteolytic cleavage of ULVWF multimers by ADAMTS-13 at a single peptide bond of Tyr(1605)-Met(1606) in the A2 domain. The cleavage reduces the size and adhesion activity of (UL)VWF multimers. Lacking this cleav... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348225 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348224&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022776%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Leone A, Landini L Abstract Both conduit and resistance arterial vessels may show vascular morphological and functional alterations due to cigarette smoking. Pathological lesions involve the arterial wall or intravascular lumen with, primarily, narrowing and thrombo-embolic events as an effect of endothelial and blood cell changes related to smoking. Functional disorders are the result of a wide spectrum of biochemical, physiological and metabolic factors. While conduit vessel alterations have been widely investigated, little is known about the changes induced by smoking on the microcirculation. It would seem that the endothelium, platelet aggregation and adhesiveness, nervous system and metabolic changes play a role in damaging resistance arteries and, then, the microcirc... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348224 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348223&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022829%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fabbian F, De Giorgi A, Pala M, Tiseo R, Portaluppi F, Imberti D, Manfredini R Abstract Venous thromboembolism is a common condition and low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) are widely used for its treatment. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also a frequent disease especially in subjects with comorbidities admitted to internal medicine wards. LMWHs are eliminated by the kidney and their half-life is increased in renal impairment. Based on a series of available studies we analyzed the relationship between treatment with LMWHs and different degrees of renal impairment including end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In order to reduce haemorrhagic risk, the LMWH dose should be reduced in CKD, even if reducing LMWH dose could impair drug effectiveness. Further studies relating glome... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348223 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5348222&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22022830%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guzman-Gutierrez E, Abarzua F, Belmar C, Nien JK, Ramirez MA, Arroyo P, Salomon C, Westermeier F, Puebla C, Leiva A, Casanello P, Sobrevia L Abstract Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a syndrome compromising the health of the mother and the fetus. Endothelial damage and reduced metabolism of the vasodilator adenosine occur and fetal hyperinsulinemia associated with deficient insulin response and a metabolic rather than mitogenic phenotype is characteristic of this pathology. These phenomena lead to endothelial dysfunction of the fetoplacental unit. Major databases were searched for the relevant literature in the field. Special attention was placed on publications related with diabetes and hormone/metabolic disorders. We aimed to summarize the information regarding ins... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5348222 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5348222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5114373&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824104%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mazzaferro S, Pasquali M, Cozzolino M Uremic subjects, in addition to accelerated atherosclerosis, develop diffuse media vascular calcification (VC) which, in turn, is associated with increased vascular stiffness and mortality risk. Two sets of risk factors for VC can be considered: passive deposition of calcium-phosphate and active transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells into osteoblastic-like cells. The former is linked with the metabolic imbalance in divalent ions that affects renal patients at any stage of the disease; the latter is secondary to a recently discovered mechanism of cellular trans-differentiation caused by deranged local concentration of divalent ions. Also, the role of inhibitors of calcification is under investigation. These include circulating or lo... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5114373 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5114373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5114372&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21824105%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: LEM study, a large-scale prospective study of long-term fluvastatin treatment for hypercholesterolemia in Japanese patients, demonstrated high impact of complications such as DM and hypertension as well as high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol on cardiac and cerebral events. After long-term statin treatment, the control of other factors rather than LDL cholesterol might be important to avoid cardiac and cerebral events. PMID: 21824105 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5114372 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5114372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4972569&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21692740%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this review is to evaluate the data regarding the tissue regeneration effects of HMGB1, with the aim of providing practical considerations about this topic for the management of subjects affected by ischemic and degenerative diseases. PMID: 21692740 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4972569 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4972569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4972568&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21692741%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Amengual O, Atsumi T, Koike T The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease in which recurrent vascular thrombosis, pregnancy morbidity or a combination of these events is associated with the persistent presence of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Evidence shows that the dominant antigenic targets for aPL in APS are phospholipid-binding plasma proteins such as b2glycoprotein I and prothrombin. The pathogenic role of aPL in thrombosis is widely accepted but the mechanisms by which these antibodies mediate disease are only partially understood. aPL may affect the normal procoagulant and anticoagulant reactions occurring on cell surface, and also may interact with certain cells, altering the expression and secretion of procoagulant substances. The int... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4972568 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4972568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4924263&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21619545%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Forte A, Hellstrand P, Nilsson BO, Grossi M, Rossi F, Cipollaro M Polyamines are organic polycations expressed by all living organisms, which are known to play an essential role in cell proliferation and differentiation. Recent studies revealed their involvement also in cell contractility and migration and in programmed cell death. These processes are known to contribute to restenosis, a pathophysiological process occurring in 10-20% of patients submitted to revascularization procedures. The advent of bare metal stents and of drug-eluting stents has significantly reduced but not eliminated the incidence of restenosis, which thus remains a clinically relevant problem. Despite the potential role of the polyamine pathway as a therapeutic target due to its involvement in prolifera... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4924263 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4924263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4924257&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21619546%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Heyn J, Hinske C, Möhnle P, Luchting B, Beiras-Fernandez A, Kreth S In spite of enormous efforts, myocardial infarction is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The molecular mechanisms underlying the pathological myocardial alterations in affected patients are not fully elucidated. Recent studies have uncovered an important regulatory role for microRNAs (miRNAs), a family of small non-coding RNA molecules which - by translational repression or messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation - primarily act as negative regulators of gene expression. MiRNAs have been identified as regulatory key players during cellular differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Recent work has unveiled an important impact of miRNAs on the pathophysiology of myocardial infarc... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4924257 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4924257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4924247&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21623708%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fusaro M, Crepaldi G, Maggi S, D'Angelo A, Calò L, Miozzo D, Fornasieri A, Gallieni M Anticoagulant therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation requires careful evaluation because its benefits i.e. prevention of thromboembolism, must be greater than the risk of bleeding. Patients at higher risk of thrombosis are evaluated through specific scores, such as the CHA2DS2VASc, coupled with scoring systems for assessing bleeding risks, such as the HAS-BLED score. In addition to bleeding, other risks have been associated with the use of warfarin, including an increased susceptibility to vascular calcifications and fractures caused by a reduction in the levels of vitamin K dependent carboxylated enzymes, matrix Gla-protein (MGP) and bone Gla-protein or osteocalcin (BGP). In fact, whi... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4924247 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4924247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877713&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21595628%26dopt%3DAbstract "European Panel on Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Subclasses": A Statement on the Pathophysiology, Atherogenicity and Clinical Significance of LDL Subclasses. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2011 May 20; Authors: Mikhailidis DP, Elisaf MS, Rizzo M, Berneis K, Griffin B, Zambon A, Athyros V, de Graaf J, März W, Parhofer KG, Rini GB, Spinas GA, Tomkin GH, Tselepis AD, Wierzbicki AS, Winkler K, Florentin M, Liberopoulos EN PMID: 21595628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877713 Thu, 19 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877712&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21595629%26dopt%3DAbstract "European Panel on Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Subclasses": A Statement on the Pathophysiology, Atherogenicity and Clinical Significance of LDL Subclasses: Executive Summary. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2011 May 20; Authors: Mikhailidis DP, Elisaf MS, Rizzo M, Berneis K, Griffin B, Zambon A, Athyros V, de Graaf J, März W, Parhofer KG, Rini GB, Spinas GA, Tomkin GH, Tselepis AD, Wierzbicki AS, Winkler K, Florentin M, Liberopoulos EN PMID: 21595629 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877712 Thu, 19 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824696&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529330%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Waanders F, de Vries LV, van Goor H, Hillebrands JL, Laverman GD, Bakker SJ, Navis G Aldosterone, a steroid hormone with mineralocorticoid activity, is far more than merely a salt-and-water hormone. Aldosterone has a number of non-classical, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)-mediated actions, including tissue remodeling, modulation of vascular tone and stimulating inflammation and fibrosis, which may fuel progression of end organ damage. Aldosterone breakthrough during blockade of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) may explain why this treatment regimen only confers partial cardiovascular and renal protection. Of major interest, aldosterone is deleterious only if inappropriately high for its sodium status i.e. high aldosterone and high sodium. The mechanism of sodiu... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824696 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824695&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529331%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gouni-Berthold I, Berthold HK Recent data from genetic and epidemiological studies strongly support a causal relationship between elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] concentrations and the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. This relationship is continuous, without an Lp(a) threshold, and it is independent of low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C and HDL-C, respectively) levels. Although the mechanism(s) through which Lp(a) promotes atherosclerosis are not clearly understood, proposed mechanisms include an increased Lp(a)-associated cholesterol entrapment in the arterial intima, inflammatory cell recruitment, carrying of proinflammatory oxidized phospholipids, impairing fibrinolysis by inhibition of plasminogen activation an... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824695 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4722115&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21476961%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions-Attaining the treatment target of LDL-C<100 mg/dl within multifactorial treatment of MetS by expert clinics, is achievable and beneficial even in patients without diabetes or known CVD. This induces a considerable e-CVD risk reduction in MetS patients. Actual CVD events were negligible, suggesting that e-CVD risk overestimates actual CVD risk in MetS, at least in patients achieving LDL-C<100 mg/dl [ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT00416741]. PMID: 21476961 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4722115 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4722115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4722119&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21470107%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eleftheriadou I, Tsioufis C, Tsiachris D, Tentolouris N, Stefanadis C The majority of individuals with pre-diabetic states eventually appear to develop diabetes mellitus. During the pre-diabetic state, that may last many years, the risk of cardiovascular disease is modestly increased, with impaired glucose tolerance being slightly stronger predictor for future cardiovascular disease than impaired fasting glucose. The role of different antihypertensive drugs in the acceleration or the delay of diabetes onset is controversial. Agents that interrupt the renin-angiotensin system, such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are likely to be beneficial in the prevention of diabetes, while calcium channel blockers are thought to act metabolicall... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4722119 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4722119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4722117&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21470108%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Semeraro F, Morescalchi F, Parmeggiani F, Arcidiacono B, Costagliola C The wet form of age related macular degeneration (AMD), known also as exudative or neovascular, is characterized by the formation of a pathological choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) responsible for most cases of severe blindness. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a homodimeric glycoprotein acting as a growth factor selective for endothelial cells; it regulates angiogenesis and enhances vascular permeability and plays a leading role in this disorder. The consistent association between CNV and increased VEGF-A expression provides a strong reason for exploring the therapeutic potential of anti-VEGF agents in the treatment of neovascular AMD. The importance of VEGF for the development of AMD-relat... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4722117 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4722117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610117&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21388345%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Porto I, De Maria GL, Di Vito L, Camaioni C, Gustapane M, Biasucci LM Microparticles are circulating fragments derived from blebbing and shedding of cell membranes through several mechanisms that include activation, apoptosis and cell damage. In the past they were largely considered as unimportant cell "dust", but more refined detection techniques have revealed large variations in their relative proportion and concentration in numerous disease states. Importantly, these conditions include the most prevalent causes of death and disability in our societies, namely cardiovascular, neoplastic, and inflammatory diseases. Microparticles carry procoagulant, proapoptotic and neoangiogenetic materials in the blood stream, and can also be viewed as a technique cells may adopt to rapidly... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610117 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4610117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610116&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21388346%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Katsiki N, Athyros VG, Karagiannis A, Mikhailidis DP Both elevated levels of uric acid and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have been associated with increased vascular risk. Furthermore, certain drugs (e.g. lipid and blood pressure lowering) that decrease cardiovascular risk and improve/preserve renal function were shown to influence serum uric acid (SUA) levels and/or NAFLD. A link between hyperuricaemia and NAFLD has also been suggested. This review considers the associations between hyperuricaemia, NAFLD and vascular risk. We also discuss the effects of different drug treatments on SUA and NAFLD. As NAFLD is a very common condition, future work in this field is needed with regard to a more practical definitive diagnosis, evidence-based treatments and a better unde... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610116 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4610116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491339&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314624%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kolovou GD, Helen B, Mikhailidis DP Atherosclerosis is a result of a lifelong process that has its origins in childhood. Data in adults suggest that impaired postprandial lipoprotein metabolism may contribute to, or be a marker of, the development and progression of atherosclerosis. After an 8-year follow up period, the Bogalusa Heart Study showed that children with low high density lipoprotein cholesterol, high triglyceride levels and high body mass index had a notably increased occurrence of dyslipidemia as adults. A significantly greater postprandial response of triglycerides in children with elevated fasting triglyceride levels was reported. It is well known that dietary fat is associated with higher plasma triglyceride levels. It is not clear if postprandial lipemia shoul... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491339 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491338&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314625%26dopt%3DAbstract Proposing a "Lipemic Index" as a Nutritional and Research Tool. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2011 Feb 14; Authors: Ooi TC, Robinson L, Graham T, Kolovou GD, Mikhailidis DP, Lairon D Recent studies have demonstrated the value of non-fasting serum triglycerides (TG) as risk markers for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. This underscores the importance of knowing the postprandial lipid/lipoprotein responses to different foods. A systematic approach is needed to make use of postprandial lipid data as a practical nutritional tool, similar to the well known glycemic index (GI), which is a measure of the effect of carbohydrates on blood glucose levels. Using GI as a model, we propose that a similar and parallel nutritional tool called Lipemic Index (LI) be developed to facilitate the... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491338 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491337&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314626%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lairon D, Defoort C Numerous factors including diet, lifestyle conditions, genetic background and physio-pathological conditions modulate the amplitude and time-courses of postprandial changes in humans. This review focuses on dietary factors affecting postprandial lipemia and lipoproteins metabolism in humans. The known effects of amount or type of fat, carbohydrate, protein and fiber are summarized. Changing the habitual dietary pattern can also alter the postprandial response. This review highlights that postprandial metabolism is a key link between dietary pattern and cardiovascular health or risk. PMID: 21314626 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491337 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491336&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314627%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ooi TC, Nordestgaard BG Postprandial lipemia (PPL) refers to a dynamic sequence of plasma lipid/lipoprotein changes induced by ingestion of food. PPL results from absorption of digested dietary lipids which form chylomicrons (CM) and increased hepatic production of VLDL, stimulated by increased delivery of fats to the liver. In general, PPL occurs over 4-6 h in normal individuals, depending on the amount and type of fats consumed. The complexity of PPL changes is compounded by ingestion of food before the previous meal is fully processed. PPL testing is done to determine the impact of (a) exogenous factors such as the amount and type of food consumed, and (b) endogenous factors such as the metabolic/genetic status of the subjects, on PPL. To study PPL appropriately, different ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491336 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491336 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491335&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314628%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kolovou GD, Mikhailidis DP, Nordestgaard BG, Bilianou H, Panotopoulos G At the present time, there is no widely agreed definition of postprandial lipaemia (PPL). This lack of a shared definition limits the identification and treatment of patients with exaggerated PPL as well as the evaluation of potential therapeutic agents. PPL is a complex syndrome characterized by non-fasting hypertriglyceridaemia that is associated with an increased risk of vascular events. This review considers the definition of PPL and the methodology for assessing this process. PMID: 21314628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491335 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491335 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491334&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314629%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Perez-Martinez P, Garcia-Rios A, Delgado-Lista J, Perez-Jimenez F, Lopez-Miranda J Accumulating evidence suggests that elevated plasma triglycerides concentrations, in both the fasting and the postprandial states, may pose a significant independent risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Both fasting and postprandial lipoprotein concentrations vary substantially among individuals, and this inter-individual variability is driven by a combination of non-genetic and genetic factors. Regarding the genetic component, the efforts to elucidate the variability in postprandial response have resulted in the identification of associations with multiple lipid candidate genes. However, most reported associations are based on very simple models including one single-nucleotide polymorphism (S... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491334 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491333&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314630%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nordestgaard BG, Freiberg JJ Non-fasting triglycerides are measured at any time within up to 8 h (14 h) after any normal meal, while postprandial triglycerides are measured at a fixed time point within up to 8 h (14 h) of a standardised fat tolerance test. The simplest possible way of evaluating remnant cholesterol is non-fasting/postprandial total cholesterol minus low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol minus high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Elevated levels of non-fasting/postprandial triglycerides directly correlate with elevated remnant cholesterol. In the general population, 38% of men have non-fasting/postprandial triglycerides > 2mmol/L (>176 mg/dL) while 45% of men have non-fasting/postprandial triglyceride levels of 1-2 mmol/L (89-176 mg/dL); corres... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491333 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491332&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314631%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: The 4 h time-point after an oral fat load during a FTT was the most representative measurement of TGs. The highest standardized mean difference of TGs was found after a meal containing 70-79g of fat. The relevance of these two key parameters determined in healthy subjects should be considered for further developments of an oral FFT for clinical purposes. PMID: 21314631 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491332 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491331&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314632%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kolovou GD, Mikhailidis DP, Kovar J, Lairon D, Nordestgaard BG, Ooi TC, Perez-Martinez P, Bilianou H, Anagnostopoulou K, Panotopoulos G An Expert Panel group of scientists and clinicians met to consider several aspects related to non-fasting and postprandial triglycerides (TGs) and their role as risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this context, we review recent epidemiological studies relevant to elevated non-fasting TGs as a risk factor for CVD and provide a suggested classification of non-fasting TG concentration. Secondly, we sought to describe methodologies to evaluate postprandial TG using a fat tolerance test (FTT) in the clinic. Thirdly, we discuss the role of non-fasting lipids in the treatment of postprandial hyperlipemia. Finally, we provide a series of... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491331 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491330&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314633%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bautista-Hernandez V, Sanchez-Andres A, Portela F, Fynn-Thompson F Pharmacologic therapy represents the mainstay of treatment for heart failure in children. However, medical therapy for this population is not widely standardized. This is mainly due to the heterogeneity of potential etiologies, the specific challenge of patients with univentricular physiology and the lack of evidence-based prospective randomized clinical trials in pediatric patients. In fact, most current strategies are based largely on extrapolated data from adult studies. Although the classic drugs for heart failure, i.e. diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, ß -blockers and cardiac glycosides, still play a major role in the treatment of pediatric heart failure, newer alternative therapies suc... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491330 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491329&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314634%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kei A, Liberopoulos EN, Elisaf MS Nicotinic acid is the oldest hypolipidemic agent in use, since 1955. It possesses broad-spectrum lipid-modifying properties including reduction of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. In addition, nicotinic acid is the most potent available hypolipidemic agent for increasing plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and decreasing lipoprotein (a) levels. Clinical trials have demonstrated that nicotinic acid can decrease cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, nicotinic acid is underused in the clinical setting due to its high rate of side effects, including flushing, gastrointestinal disorders, rash, hyperglycemia and hyperuricemia. The nicotinic acid-associated side effects and their... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491329 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491328&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314635%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusion: Nicotinic acid is a safe supplementary (to statins) lipid lowering agent which may also improve cardiovascular outcomes. Whether its combination with laropiprant will be proved equally effective and more favourable in terms of adverse effects remains to be established by large clinical trials. PMID: 21314635 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491328 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491327&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314636%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stavrinou E, Koumaras C, Gossios TD, Tziomalos K, Athyros VG, Karagiannis A Atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) is a progressive disease and it is usually associated with hypertension as well as with chronic kidney and cardiovascular disease. Although the anatomical lesions are relatively easy to depict, there is need to identify diagnostic methods to establish the functional significance of the stenosis and predict the response to revascularization. Over the last years, renal revascularization appears to be increasingly performed in patients with ARAS. However, controversy abounds as so far prospective, randomised trials did not document any benefit of revascularization with or without stenting plus optimal medical treatment over optimal medical treatment alone. In t... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491327 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4491326&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21314637%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shanker J, Gasparyan AY, Kitas GD, Kakkar VV Platelets play a crucial role in thrombosis, inflammation, immunity and atherogenesis. Antiplatelet agents are widely used in patients with acute coronary syndrome and other cardiovascular disorders. Aspirin and clopidogrel are the most commonly prescribed antiplatelet agents, with a relatively safe profile and efficiency in a variety of clinical conditions. Numerous prospective studies have revealed variability of antiplatelet efficacy. The so called "antiplatelet resistance" prompted a search for mechanisms implicated in poor responsiveness to aspirin and clopidogrel therapy. In this regard, genetic polymorphisms in the platelet receptor genes attracted considerable interest. Specific genetic variants in platelet receptors such as... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4491326 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4491326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260045&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143160%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Franks PW, Poveda A Obesity is a highly prevalent complex trait that raises the risk of other chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease, and shortens lifespan. Clinical intervention studies focused on weight loss and epidemiological studies of obesity indicate that genetic variation may modify the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and weight loss or weight gain. Similar observations have also emerged from pharmacogenetic studies. The literature includes several reports from these studies, but few examples of interactions have been adequately replicated. In this review we introduce the topics of population genetics research and gene x environment interaction. We also provide a systematic review of the published lit... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260045 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260044&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143161%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Joviliano EE, Dellalibera-Joviliano R, Celotto AC, Capellini VK, Dalio MB, Piccinato CE, Evora PR Nowadays, the great saphenous vein is the vascular conduit that is most frequently employed in coronary and peripheral revascularization surgery. It is known that saphenous vein bypass grafts have shorter patency than arterial ones, partly because the wall of the normal saphenous vein has different structural and functional characteristics. The features of this vein can be affected by the large distention pressures it is submitted to during its preparation and insertion into the arterial system. Indeed, a vein graft is subjected to considerable changes in hemodynamic forces upon implantation into the arterial circulation, since it is transplanted from a non-pulsatile, low-pressure... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260044 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260043&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143162%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews and critically discusses the available data on combination therapy in PAH. PMID: 21143162 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260043 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260042&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143163%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Muscogiuri G, Sorice GP, Tripathy D, Chavez AO, Davalli A, Lange RA, Folli F One of the critical points in the pathogenesis of aortic aneurysms (AAs) is the disruption of the balance between vascular extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and degradation. AAs are common features in some genetically determined diseases of the connective tissue, such as Marfan and Ehlers-Danlos. Acquired factors determining an enhanced inflammatory state of the arterial wall also play a key role. Previous studies have determined the role of tumor growth factor β (TGF-β); as a principal mediator of the pathogenesis of the alterations of the arterial wall homeostasis in AAs. The medical management of any AA is mainly focused on the use of pharmacological agents that reduce hemodynamic stress of t... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260042 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260041&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143164%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stavrinou E, Koumaras C, Gossios TD, Tziomalos K, Athyros VG, Karagiannis A Atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) is a progressive disease and it is usually associated with hypertension as well as with chronic kidney and cardiovascular disease. Although the anatomical lesions are relatively easy to depict, there is need to identify diagnostic methods to establish the functional significance of the stenosis and predict the response to revascularization. Over the last years, renal revascularization appears to be increasingly performed in patients with ARAS. However, controversy abounds as so far prospective, randomised trials did not document any benefit of revascularization with or without stenting plus optimal medical treatment over optimal medical treatment alone. In t... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260041 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260040&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143165%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Leone A A causal relationship between exposure to smoking and increase in blood pressure (BP) is not yet clearly demonstrated. Some observations suggest a transient increase while smoking a cigarette or when exposed to passive smoking. Late stable hypertension may also occur as a consequence of smoking. This could be attributed to the progression of atherogenesis triggered by smoking (e.g. endothelial dysfunction). Endothelial dysfunction is strongly associated with hypertension. Impaired nitric oxide (NO) availability attributable to oxidative stress production, which causes NO breakdown, has also been considered as another mechanism. Smoking and hypertension seem to have an additive effect as risk factors for cardiovascular disease. PMID: 21143165 [PubMed - as supplied b... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260040 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260039&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143166%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides an up to date overview of orally active compounds for the future treatment of AF. Emphasis lies on comparison of direct thrombin inhibitors with factor Xa inhibitors that are currently investigated in clinical phase III studies for the treatment of non-valvular AF. The direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran will be compared with factor Xa inhibitors like rivaroxaban and apixaban. Other promising agents currently investigated in phase II trials such as direct factor Xa inhibitors DU-176b (edoxaban) and YM150, will also be discussed. PMID: 21143166 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260039 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260038&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143167%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nakagami H, Morishita R Obesity is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, which is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. It is now clear that gut hormones play a role in the regulation of body weight and represent therapeutic targets for the future treatment of obesity. Recent evidence demonstrated that dysregulation of adipocytokine functions seen in abdominal obesity may be involved in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Angiotensinogen, the precursor of angiotensin (Ang) II, is produced primarily in the liver, but also in adipose tissue, where it is up-regulated during the development of obesity and involved in blood pressure regulation and adipose tissue growth. Importantly, blockade of the RAS attenuat... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260038 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260037&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143168%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yamada S Metabolic syndrome comprises of a cluster of several risk factors including abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, and insulin resistance. Many manifestations occur in sequence which is also referred to as the metabolic domino. Because the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) seems to be involved in this domino effect, RAS blockade by angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) offers a therapeutic tool for treating hypertension and ultimately the metabolic syndrome itself. In this paper, I describe the effects of ARBs on adiponectin, blood pressure, and fatty liver. Several clinical studies have reported that ARBs elevate adiponectin. ARBs that activate the PPARγ may be more effective than others. In terms of blood pressure, transient ARB administration may ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260037 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260036&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143169%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Matsuura K, Hagiwara N Angiotensin II regulates blood pressure and contributes to endothelial dysfunction and the progression of atherosclerosis. Bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in peripheral blood contribute to postnatal vessel repair and neovascularization. Impaired EPC function in patients with hypertension and diabetes inhibits the endogenous repair of vascular lesions and leads to the progression of atherosclerosis. The number of EPCs in peripheral blood is inversely correlated with mortality and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. Angiotensin II-mediated signaling is implicated in oxidative stress, inflammation and insulin resistance, factors that cause EPC dysfunction. Blockade of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor may therefore present a ne... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260036 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260035&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143170%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Honjo T, Yamaoka-Tojo M, Inoue N The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an essential role in fluid and electrolyte homeostasis and the regulation of vascular tone; however, dysregulation and over-activation of the RAS lead to the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases. The RAS is closely associated with NADPH oxidase, a major enzymatic source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vasculature, and angiotensin II, the final effecter of the RAS, is a potent stimulator of this oxidase. There are accumulating evidences to support the significance of NADPH oxidase in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We demonstrated that the expression of NADPH oxidase is markedly enhanced in human atherosclerotic coronary arteries, and the distribution of oxidized oxidized low-density l... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260035 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260034&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143171%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saitoh SI, Takeishi Y Evidence accumulated to date indicates that inhibition of the rennin-angiotensin system with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) may prevent new-onset of diabetes. ARB is also used for the prevention of occurrence and progression of complications in diabetes and diabetic nephropathy. From the results of recent large-scale clinical studies, ARB is considered as a first choice drug in hypertensive patients with diabetes. In this review article, we focus on the effects of ARB on progression and prevention against diabetes as a metabolic-improving agent. PMID: 21143171 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260034 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260033&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143172%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Taguchi I, Inoue T, Kikuchi M, Toyoda S, Arikawa T, Abe S, Node K Angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor blockers (ARBs), widely used in the treatment of hypertension, have cardiovascular, cerebral, and renal protective effects beyond blood pressure control. In addition to direct end-organ protection, some ARBs have been suggested to improve abnormalities of glucose and lipid metabolisms, resulting in an anti-atherosclerotic effect in patients with hypertension. In several clinical trials, the effects of ARBs on lipid metabolism have been emerged, although the effects are heterogeneous. Certain subgroups of ARBs such as telmisartan have been identified as partial agonists for the peroxisome proliferators activated receptor (PPAR)-γ, and thus, this class of ARBs has been mostly ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260033 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260032&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143173%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yamaoka-Tojo M PMID: 21143173 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260032 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260031&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143174%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dimitroulas T, Giannakoulas G, Karvounis H, Settas L, Kitas GD Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a complex multisystem disease characterized by vascular involvement and generalized disturbance of the microcirculation. Pulmonary vascular disease leads to systemic sclerosis-related pulmonary arterial hypertension (SScPAH). SScPAH is a devastating complication with a considerable impact on prognosis, being a common cause of disease-related death. The ability to detect this process at an early stage by simple means would be of great value, since effective treatment is now available. There is increasing evidence that several biomarkers increase in proportion to the extent of right ventricular dysfunction and correlate with hemodynamic, echocardiographic and functional measurements of pul... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260031 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260030&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143175%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Julve J, Llaverias G, Blanco-Vaca F, Escolà-Gil JC Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is a protective factor against cardiovascular disease. However, the beneficial therapeutic effects of raising HDL-C are proving difficult to confirm in humans. Macrophage-specific reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) is thought to be one of the most important HDL-mediated cardioprotective mechanisms. A new approach was developed to measure in vivo RCT from labeled cholesterol macrophages to liver and feces in mice. Since its original publication, this method has been extensively used to assess the effects of genetic manipulation of pivotal genes involved in HDL metabolism on this major HDL antiatherogenic function in mice. These... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260030 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4260029&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21143176%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: De Rosa S, Cirillo P, Pacileo M, Petrillo G, D'Ascoli GL, Maresca F, Ziviello F, Chiariello M Inflammation plays a role at all stages of atherosclerosis. Neopterin, a pteridine mainly synthesized by activated macrophages, is a marker of inflammation, immune system activation and an active participant in cardiovascular disease. Measurement of neopterin levels may help follow the evolution of specific inflammatory conditions (e.g. viral infection, renal transplant rejection, systemic inflammatory diseases, nephritic syndrome and autoimmune diseases). Serum levels of neopterin are elevated also in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Moreover, plasma levels of this molecule might predict adverse cardiovascular events in patients with CA... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4260029 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4260029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140682&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044014%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ishibashi T, Takeishi Y Atherosclerosis is an inflammation-based complex vascular disorder which causes coronary artery disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease. Its pathophysiological process consists of endothelial dysfunction, monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells, lipid and inflammatory cell accumulation in the vascular wall, and migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells. Both hyperlipidemia and inflammation are profoundly involved in each step. Cholesterol lowering by HMG-CoA reductase (statin) is beneficial for treating atherosclerotic coronary artery disease and stroke, together with reducing a surrogate-marker of inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP). Another recently established cholesterol lowering tool using an intestinal cholesterol absorption inhib... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140682 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140682 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140681&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044015%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yamaoka-Tojo M, Tojo T, Takahira N, Masuda T, Izumi T Ezetimibe is a potent inhibitor of cholesterol absorption that has been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Statin, 3-hydroxy-3 methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor, is an inhibitor of cholesterol synthesis. Statin is the first-choice drug to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol for patients with hypercholesterolemia, due to its strong effect to lower the circulating LDL-cholesterol levels. Because a high dose of statins causes concern about rhabdomyolysis, it is sometimes difficult to achieve the guideline-recommended levels of LDLcholesterol in patients with high LDL-cholesterol treated with statin monotherapy. Ezetimibe has been reported to reduce LDL-cholesterol safely with... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140681 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140680&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044016%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yoshida M Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in Western countries and also in other parts of the world. NAFLD encompasses a histological spectrum ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, advanced fibrosis and inflammatory changes. It frequently occurs with features of the metabolic syndrome including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and hypertension. In fact, the metabolic syndrome is a strong predictor of NAFLD. Recently, Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) has been shown to play a pivotal role in cholesterol absorption. Unlike mouse NPC1L1 protein, predominantly expressed in the intestines, human and rat NPC1L1 is also abundantly expressed in the liver. Though the exact functions of hepatic NPC1L1 remain unk... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140680 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140679&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044017%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ikeda S, Maemura K Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases that has been managed mostly with 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) that suppress de novo cholesterol synthesis in the liver. Statins also have beneficial pleiotropic effects on the atherosclerotic process that are independent of their ability to lower lipid values. However, the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in most hypercholesterolemic patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease do not reach the goals proposed by guidelines even when prescribed with statins. Ezetimibe is a new lipid-lowering agent that blocks the intestinal absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol and reduces LDL-C levels, especially when combined wit... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140679 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140678&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044018%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nakagami H, Osako MK, Morishita R Vascular calcification is recently considered as one of the major complications and an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases. Although vascular calcification was commonly regarded as a passive process of mineral adsorption or precipitation, it tends to be an active process associated with the expression of growth factors, matrix proteins, and other bone-related proteins. There are 2 main types of vascular calcification. Intimal calcification is found in atherosclerotic plaques and is associated with the vascular events such as myocardial infarction. Medial calcification is usually associated with age and chronic kidney disease patients, which leads to increased vascular stiffness and reduced vascular compliance. Interestingly, our... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140678 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140677&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044019%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lioudaki E, Ganotakis ES, Mikhailidis DP Ezetimibe (EZE), a selective inhibitor of intestinal cholesterol absorption, is mostly used in combination with statins across various patient populations. Besides its low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering, EZE exerts different effects on several other variables. In an earlier review, we discussed the effects of EZE on lipid parameters other than LDL-C [e.g. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, insulin sensitivity and endothelial function]. In the present review, we consider recent evidence regarding these topics as well as data reporting novel EZE actions. EZE may protect from cholelithiasis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and appears as an effective lipid-lowering treatment option for human-immunodeficiency vi... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140677 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140676&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044020%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yamaoka-Tojo M PMID: 21044020 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140676 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140675&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044021%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we summarize the current evidence for these new developed or under development drugs regarding their applications in the filed of lower limb orthopaedic surgery. PMID: 21044021 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140675 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140674&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044022%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Khan T, Vohra RS, Homer-Vanniasinkam S Patients undergoing non-cardiac vascular surgery (NCVS) are at high risk of developing perioperative venous and arterial thrombotic complications. Effective thromboprophylaxis is an essential part of the perioperative management of patients undergoing surgical procedures. To ensure appropriate delivery of antithrombotic agents and standardise clinical practice, numerous national and international guidelines have been developed in recent years. Very few of these recommendations are designed specifically for patients undergoing NCVS. This review aims to highlight the relevant guidelines and novel recommendations that are available for patients undergoing NCVS while noting their limitations and providing suggestions for specific subsets. ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140674 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140673&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044023%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Papakostidis C, Harwood PJ, Karadimas EJ, Tan HB, Giannoudis PV Patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery of the lower extremities or spine are at increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Although consensus exists as to the need for routine thromboprophylaxis in high risk patients, some aspects of this approach, such as the timing of the first dose and overall duration of the anticoagulation regimen, are subject to debate. Reviewing the available literature, there appears to be little evidence to support initiation of thromboprophylaxis more than 12 hours before surgery. Perioperative thromboprophylaxis (2 hours pre to 6 hours post -op) has been associated with an increased risk of bleeding complications whilst initiating prophylaxis more than 12 hours after surgery... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140673 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140672&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044024%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nikolaou VS, Bergeron SG, Bergeron SG, Antoniou J Thromboembolic disease remains one of the most devastating and potentially lethal complications after elective total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. Studies have shown that 40-85% of patients undergoing TKR will develop venographically confirmed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if they are not given any type of post-operative thromboprophylaxis and approximately 0.1 to 1.7% will suffer fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). Consequently, there is a general consensus that patients undergoing elective TKR require adequate antithrombotic prophylaxis. The following article reviews current evidence regarding chemical thromboprophylaxis after total knee replacement. Clinical guidelines as described by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140672 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140671&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044025%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Johnson EO, Konstandi M, Babis GC, Soucacos PN Strategies for prevention of venous thromboembolism in orthopaedic patients undergoing major lower limb surgery include pharmacological prophylaxis. Over the last three decades, the search for new safe and effective approaches for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in these patients has continued. Increased understanding of the haemostatic process has led to a clearer appreciation of the mechanisms of action of antithrombotic drugs already in use as well as the identification of new targets for novel drug development. As a result, the development of new anticoagulants has advanced rapidly over recent years. The molecular targets of several novel anticoagulants, and their effectiveness in early Phase II and Phase III trials a... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140671 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140670&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044026%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tsiridis E, Gamie Z, George MJ, Hamilton-Baille D, West RM, Giannoudis PV Surgery for pelvic or acetabular fractures carries a high risk of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Reports indicate that fondaparinux is a more effective thromboprophylactic agent than low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) after major orthopaedic surgery. The safety and efficacy of fondaparinux was evaluated in a new protocol used for DVT prophylaxis. One hundred and twenty seven patients with pelvic or acetabular fractures received either fondaparinux or enoxaparin and were analysed in a historical non-concurrent study. Specific review points included clinical deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) and evidence of adverse effects such as bleeding or allergic reactions. Two patients that received... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140670 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140669&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044027%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Babis GC, Sakellariou V, Johnson EO, Soucacos PN We conducted a thorough search of all the English language literature and carried out a meta-analysis in an attempt to reveal potential differences on the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) between one stage bilateral and unilateral total hip replacements, and to provide, if possible, recommendations on thromboembolic prophylaxis. We identified 37 citations eligible for inclusion. A total of 5868 bilateral simultaneous THR patients were identified. Analysis of data was performed with the Mantel-Haenszel method. Meta-analysis of homogeneous data revealed no statistically significant differences in the rates of deep vein thrombosis (p = 0.40) and pulmonary embolism (p = 0.39) when comparing staged ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140669 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140668&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044028%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kalyani BS, Roberts CS Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is used in orthopaedic surgery largely for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The purpose of this study was to review the available evidence to better define its role. The most recent American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Practice guidelines for the most current recommendations for the application of LMWH to orthopaedic surgery are reviewed. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken using MEDLINE database and manual searches, the terms low molecular weight heparin, orthopaedic procedures, venous thromboembolism, and thromboprophylaxis were used as keywords. A total of 34 studies were identified, including prospective, randomized controlled clinical studies comparing LMWH with other tr... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140668 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140667&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21044029%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Giannoudis PV PMID: 21044029 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140667 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4140667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976913&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20840062%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Banach M, Kjeldsen SE, Narkiewicz K PMID: 20840062 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976913 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 13:03:15 +0100 3976913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3935196&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20807188%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kasivisvanathan V, Shalhoub J, Lim CS, Shepherd AC, Thapar A, Davies AH Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a nuclear transcription factor that is upregulated in hypoxia and co-ordinates the adaptive response to hypoxia by driving the expression of over 100 genes. In facilitating tissues to adapt to hypoxia, HIF-1 may have a role in reducing the cellular damage induced by ischaemia, such as that seen in peripheral arterial disease (PAD), or following acute ischaemic insults such as stroke and myocardial infarction. This therefore raises the possibility of HIF-1 modulation in such contexts to reduce the consequences of ischaemic injury. HIF1 has further been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation, pulmonary hypertension an... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3935196 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3935196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3935195&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20807189%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Thanigaimani S, Kichenadasse G, Mangoni AA Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an endogenous polypeptide that modulates angiogenesis in normal physiological conditions as well as in cancer. During angiogenesis, VEGF interacts with several other angiogenic factors, playing an important role in cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, cell survival, nitric oxide (NO) production, release of other growth factors and sympathetic innervation. Based on these mechanisms of action, several anti-VEGF drugs have been developed for cancer treatment. This review discusses the physiology and interactions of VEGF, its mechanisms of action and role in modulating vascular homeostasis. It also discusses the adverse cardiovascular effects of recently developed anti-VEGF drugs for... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3935195 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3935195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3935194&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20807190%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Breen DM, Giacca A Revascularization procedures used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease can be associated with restenosis, although drug-coated stents have greatly reduced this complication. Both type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are associated with a high risk for atherosclerosis and restenosis. Insulin resistance, defined as the inability of insulin to exert its metabolic actions, characterizes both T2DM and MetS. Recent data suggest that insulin resistance is directly implicated in atherosclerosis/restenosis, because of the unresponsiveness to the vasculoprotective action of insulin, including its phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt-endothelial nitric oxide synthase mediated enhancement of endothelial function. However, insulin also has 'atherog... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3935194 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3935194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858555&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20700902%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Crooke RM PMID: 20700902 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858555 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:21:09 +0100 3858555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787273&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20649510%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dandel M, Hetzer R Immunosuppressive drugs (ISDs) have a major impact on the development and progression of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), the main cause of cardiac allograft loss and a leading cause of death beyond the 1st post-transplant year. The influence of ISDs on the development and progression of CAV is complex. In spite of their high potency to suppress the alloimmune response (prevention of allograft rejection) which plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of CAV, the immunosuppressive regimens which were used in the past were not able to entirely prevent the development of CAV. This can be explained by the fact that several non-alloimmune insults such as brain death, organ preservation, surgical trauma, ischemia-reperfusion, diabetes, hypertension, hyperl... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787273 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3787273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762171&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626336%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Moutzouri E, Elisaf M, Liberopoulos EN Hypocholesterolemia is defined as total cholesterol (TC) and low density cholesterol (LDL-C) levels below the 5(th) percentile of the general population adjusted for age, gender and race. Hypocholesterolemia may be attributed to inherited disorders or several secondary causes. Inherited forms of hypocholesterolemia consist of a group of rare diseases. The best studied are familial hypobetalipoproteinemia (FHBL) and abetalipoproteinemia (ABL). Clinical diagnosis rests on lipid levels and the pattern of inheritance after secondary causes are excluded. Patients with primary hypobetalipoproteinemias may manifest a variety of symptoms and signs affecting several organs (steatorrhea, neurological and ophalmological symptoms, non-alcoholic fatty... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762171 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762169&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626337%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bielecka-Dąbrowa A, Aronow WS, Rysz J, Banach M Hypertension represents the most common cardiovascular risk factor, affecting more than 25% of the adult population in developed societies. Although beta-blockers have been previously shown to effectively reduce blood pressure and have been used for hypertension treatment for over 40 years, their effect on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hypertensive patients remains controversial and their use in uncomplicated hypertension is currently still under debate. According to the previous recommendations beta-blockers should not be preferred as first-line therapy in hypertension patients. This review summarizes the current knowledge on application of beta-blockers in patients with hypertension and discusses the most recent ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762169 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762167&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626338%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Aksnes TA, Kjeldsen SE Atrial fibrillation is the most common clinically significant cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with markedly increased risks of cardiovascular diseases. Atrial fibrillation and hypertension often coexist and are both responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. Aggressive treatment of hypertension, especially with a blocker of the reninangiotensin system, may postpone or prevent development of atrial fibrillation and reduce thromboembolic complications. Awareness of the risk of developing atrial fibrillation in hypertensives may be of great importance and focus on prevention of atrial fibrillation development with optimal antihypertensive treatment may reduce morbidity, mortality and health care expenditures. PMID: 20626338 [PubMed - as ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762167 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762165&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626339%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mancia G, Grassi G In 2009 the European Society of Hypertension (ESH) has developed a document updating the recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension issued in 2007. The main elements of novelty refer to the assessment of organ damage, the blood pressure thresholds for treatment initiation as well as the blood pressure goals, the use of drug combination treatment and the therapeutic intervention in specific clinical conditions. This paper will review the novelties of the ESH update document and the implications of the "new guidelines" for current clinical practice. PMID: 20626339 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762165 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762163&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626340%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stepien M, Banach M, Jankowski P, Rysz J Central arterial systolic blood pressure is a very important factor in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. Central arterial pressure is a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than peripheral brachial blood pressure. Measurement of central blood pressure is useful for a diagnosis of spurious systolic hypertension in young people. Antihypertensive drugs have a different impact on central blood pressure, for example angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, antagonists of angiotensin II receptors, calcium channel blockers more effectively lower central blood pressure than betablockers, despite all of those drugs (including beta-blockers) having a similar impact on peripheral pressure. This mechanism may be responsible for th... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762163 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762161&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626341%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shantsila A, Shantsila E, Lip GY Malignant hypertension (MHT) is the most severe form of hypertension which is clinically defined as the presence of high blood pressure in association with bilateral retinal haemorrhages and/or exudates, with or without papilloedema. The aim of this review article is to discuss whether MHT is a problem which is truly becoming a rarity, or is it simply a problem with underdiagnosis. Despite the improvements in the general management of hypertension, we have no strong evidence of a declining incidence of MHT. In contrast, this disorder may appear to become even more common worldwide taking into account the growing hypertensive population in the developing countries. Although the diagnostic criteria of MHT appear to be simple and straightforward, ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762161 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762158&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626342%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rossi GP, Seccia TM, Pessina AC The prevalence of secondary hypertension is lower than that of primary (essential) hypertension, but it is likely that it has been underestimated because appropriate tests were not generally performed. Hence, before embarking on a search for secondary hypertension physicians are generally advised to select populations of patients with a high pre-test probability of secondary forms of hypertension in order to maximize the positive predictive value and the gain in "ruling in" of the diagnostic tests. Based on updated information on prevalence and pathophysiology we herein critically review the general diagnostic strategy and the management of the main forms of secondary hypertension. In particular, strategies for identifying primary aldosteronism,... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762158 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762158 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762155&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626343%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Verdecchia P, Angeli F, Mazzotta G, Ambrosio G, Reboldi G The combined use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) poses a dilemma to clinicians. On the one hand, indirect evidence from compelling, but still surrogate outcome measures such as blood pressure and proteinuria suggest some merits of this combination. On the other hand, the outcome benefits of the ACEIs+ARBs combination in morbidity/mortality trials remain confined to patients with severe congestive heart failure (CHF) and reduced ejection fraction. Incidentally, most of the benefit offered by the ACEIs+ARBs combination in these patients was not driven by mortality, but by fewer rehospitalizations for CHF. Even in patients with renal disease and proteinuria, the ... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762155 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762155 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762151&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626344%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Karagiannis A, Tziomalos K, Anagnostis P, Gossios TD, Florentin M, Athyros VG, Mikhailidis DP Antihypertensive agents exert different effects on insulin sensitivity, lipids and haemostasis. However, most studies assessing these effects were small and short-term yielding conflicting results. Moreover, it has not been established whether the impact of antihypertensive drugs on insulin sensitivity, lipids, thrombosis and fibrinolysis adds to or attenuates vascular risk reduction. On the other hand, new onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) appears to be more frequent in patients treated with beta-blockers and diuretics, whereas angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers might reduce the risk for T2DM and calcium channel blockers have a neutral effe... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762151 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762147&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626345%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chrostowska M, Narkiewicz K Hypertension, the leading cause of mortality and the third largest cause of disability, is poorly controlled worldwide. The failure to control hypertension takes an unacceptable toll on patients and their families. In addition to the personal cost, to the individual patient, uncontrolled hypertension creates huge, avoidable economic burdens when viewed in terms of the general population. Almost one-half of patients drop out entirely from treatment within 1 year. This review summarizes key challenges related to hypertension management with special focus on patient compliance. Firstly, we will present consequences of poor blood pressure control. Secondly, methods of patient compliance assessment will be reviewed. Thirdly, we will present recent studie... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762147 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3762134&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20626346%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Aronow WS Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled studies have documented that antihypertensive drug therapy decreases cardiovascular events in older persons. In the Hypertension in the Very Elderly Trial, patients aged 80 years and older treated with antihypertensive drug therapy had at 1.8-year follow-up, a 30% insignificant decrease in fatal or nonfatal stroke, a 39% significant decrease in fatal stroke, a 21% significant decrease in all-cause mortality, a 23% insignificant decrease in death from cardiovascular causes, and a 64% significant decrease in heart failure. The goal of treatment of hypertension in older persons is to decrease the blood pressure to < 140/90 mm Hg and to <130/80 mm Hg in older persons with diabetes or chronic renal disease. Elderly person... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3762134 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3762134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3696199&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20572805%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Liapis CD, Bell PF, Mikhailidis DP, Sivenius J, Nicolaides A, Fernandes E Fernandes J, Biasi G, Norgren L Herein, we present the European Society for Vascular Surgery Guidelines pertinent to the secondary prevention of cerebrovascular events in patients with carotid artery stenosis including lipid lowering therapy, antiplatelet therapy and other risk factor modification. These recommendations are based on current evidence from clinical trials. There is a need for aggressive prevention treatment in patients with carotid artery disease. We also discuss the diagnosis and grading of carotid artery stenosis. PMID: 20572805 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3696199 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3696199 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3696198&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20572806%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Liapis CD, Bell PF, Mikhailidis DP, Sivenius J, Nicolaides A, Fernandes E Fernandes J, Biasi G, Norgren L Herein, we present the European Society for Vascular Surgery Guidelines pertinent to the secondary prevention of cerebrovascular events in patients with carotid artery stenosis including lipid lowering therapy, antiplatelet therapy and other risk factor modification. These recommendations are based on current evidence from clinical trials. There is a need for aggressive prevention treatment in patients with carotid artery disease. We also discuss the diagnosis and grading of carotid artery stenosis. PMID: 20572806 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3696198 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3696198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3696197&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20572807%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rizos EC, Elisaf MS PMID: 20572807 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3696197 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3696197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3610853&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20507271%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vara DS, Punshon G, Sales KM, Hamilton G, Seifalian AM Synthetic grafts, namely expanded polytetrafluoroethlene (ePTFE) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (Dacron), used for cardiovascular bypass surgery are thrombogenic. Lining the inner lumen ("seeding") of synthetic grafts with endothelial cells (ECs) increases patency rates similar to those of autologous grafts (e.g. saphenous vein). The major drawback with seeding grafts is the retention of cells present on the graft after implantation in vivo, where large portions of cell wash off. Preconditioning the seeded EC monolayer with shear stress has been shown to promote the reorganisation of the EC cytoskeleton and production of extracellular matrix, resulting in higher EC retention after exposure to blood flow. Vascular ECs hav... Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3610853 Thu, 27 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3610853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3610852&cid=s_37269_13_f&fid=37269&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20507272%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: We cannot safely conclude for the effect of statins on arterial stiffness, as estimated by PWV measurements. This is a poorly investigated field with few RCTs and a limited number of participants. More trials should be carried out to reach more robust conclusions. PMID: 20507272 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology) Current Vascular Pharmacology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3610852 Thu, 27 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3610852