The results show an interplay between the endocannabinoid and dopaminergic signaling in activation of the limbic reward system. The mechanisms leading to development of dependence
are very complex and poorly recognized. Endogenous cannabinoids seem to have an important role in the functioning of this system, both directly and indirectly affecting the level of different neurotransmitters. The effect of alcohol on the endocannabinoid system is also complex and involves changes at the molecular level. Experimental studies have demonstrated an important role of the CB1 receptors in the neurochemical mechanism of alcohol consumption and its regulation. SR141716 (rimonabant), a CB1 receptor Selleckchem ABT-263 antagonist, significantly lowers voluntary alcohol intake and motivation for its consumption in various experimental studies. Very encouraging results of preclinical studies were not completely confirmed in the clinical studies. However, further clinical studies are still necessary.”
“The aim of this study was to explore changes in liver volume and intrahepatic fat in morbidly obese patients during 4 weeks of low-calorie diet (LCD) before surgery and
to investigate if these changes would facilitate the following laparoscopic gastric bypass.
Fifteen female patients (121.3 kg, BMI 42.9) were treated preoperatively in an open study with LCD (800-1,100 kcal/day) during 4 weeks. Liver volume and fat content E1 Activating inhibitor were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy before and after the LCD treatment.
Liver appearance and the complexity of the surgery were scored at the operation. Eighteen control patients (114.4 kg, BMI 40.8),
without LCD were scored similarly. Average weight loss in the STI571 mw LCD group was 7.5 kg, giving a mean weight of 113.9 kg at surgery. Liver volume decreased by 12% (p < 0.001) and intrahepatic fat by 40% (p < 0.001). According to the preoperative scoring, the size of the left liver lobe, sharpness of the liver edge, and exposure of the hiatal region were improved in the LCD group compared to the controls (all p < 0.05).
The overall complexity of the surgery was perceived lower in the LCD group (p < 0.05), due to improved exposure and reduced psychological stress (both p < 0.05). Four weeks of preoperative LCD resulted in a significant decrease in liver volume and intrahepatic fat content, and facilitated the subsequent laparoscopic gastric bypass as scored by the surgeon.”
“This review study explores the available data relating to the impact of financial crisis and subsequently applied austerity measures on the health care, social services and health promotion policies in Greece.
It is evident that Greece is affected more than any other European country by the financial crisis. Unemployment, job insecurity, income reduction, poverty and increase of mental disorders are among the most serious consequences of crisis in the socioeconomic life.