Lipopolysaccharide and cyclic AMP regulation of CB(2) cannabinoid receptor levels in rat brain and mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages.

CB(2) cannabinoid receptors exist in immune cells including macrophages. Affinity-purified antibodies against the CB(2) receptor identified a 45 kDa protein in rat brain, human tonsil and rat and mouse microglia, but not mouse N18TG2 neuroblastoma cells. Intracerebroventricular lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increased immunoreactive CB(2) receptors in brain membranes detected by Western blot.

Examining bowel preparation before flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Aim: To investigate bowel preparation for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, particularly the procedure for the administration of a phosphate enema and patient expectation to 'wait as long as they can' before the urge to rush to the toilet.

Method: A survey approach was used with a questionnaire recording the time to toilet after the enema and level of bowel clearance.

Results: Over half of participants (24 of 40) chose to use the toilet immediately.