A peel-off facial mask comprising myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improves adult female acne by reducing local hyperandrogenism and activating autophagy

Summary

Background

Hyperandrogenism and reduced skin autophagy have been implicated in the pathogenesis of adult female acne (AFA). Here, we tested whether a ready-to-use peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol (an androgen inhibitor) and trehalose-loaded liposomes (as activators of cutaneous autophagy) applied overnight every other day for 60 days can improve AFA. We also sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical effects.

Objectives

We conducted an uncontrolled, open-label clinical study in 40 cases of AFA to investigate the effect of the facial mask on lesion count, sebum production (measured with the Sebutape® technique), and Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) scale. We also investigated the changes from baseline to the end of treatment in androgen and beclin-1 levels (as a marker of authophagy) in skin biopsy supernatants.

Methods

Forty Caucasian patients with AFA were enrolled. Changes in clinical and molecular endpoints before and after treatment were investigated.

Results

The mean counts of comedones, papules, pustules, and nodular lesions decreased significantly (all P<.001). The mean Sebutape® score was reduced from 3.4±0.6 to 1.8±0.2 (P<.001), whereas the mean GAGS scale score decreased from 16.8±5.3 at baseline to 9.8±4.6 after treatment (P<.001). A significant decrease in testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in skin biopsy supernatants was observed, whereas beclin-1 levels increased significantly (P<.001).

Conclusion

A ready-to-use peel-off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose-loaded liposomes improved the cosmetic appearance of AFA by reducing cutaneous androgen content and promoting skin autophagy.

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Overexpression of Drosha, DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8), and Dicer mRNAs in the pathogenesis of psoriasis

Summary

Introduction

Psoriasis is a complex autoimmune inflammatory disease that occurs in genetically susceptible individuals and presents with the development of inflammatory plaques on the skin. Recent studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in psoriasis.

Objective

To investigate whether expression of Drosha, DGCR8, and Dicer mRNAs is involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Methods

Biopsies were obtained from involved psoriatic skin (PP), noninvolved psoriatic skin (PN), and healthy skin (NN). Expression of Drosha, Dicer, and DGCR8 was assessed with real-time quantitative real-time PCR in 25 patients with psoriasis and 25 healthy volunteers.

Results

We observed that expression levels of Drosha, Dicer, and DGCR8 were upregulated in patients with psoriasis compared to the control group. However, the Drosha and Dicer expression levels were higher in PP tissues and PN tissues compared to NN tissues, but they were more upregulated in PP tissues compared to PN tissues (P<.001). Although the DGCR8 expression was higher in PP tissues and PN tissues compared to NN tissues, it was more upregulated in PN tissues compared to PP tissues (P<.001).

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that upregulated expression of Drosha, DGCR8, and Dicer mRNAs may be involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

http://ift.tt/2o1IOvm

PVDF-ionic liquid modified clay nanocomposites: Phase changes and shish-kebab structure

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Eapen Thomas, C. Parvathy, Nisha Balachandran, S. Bhuvaneswari, K.P. Vijayalakshmi, Benny K. George
Crystalline behaviour of PVDF nanocomposite with 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium modified montmorillonite clay was analyzed. The phase change from α to β increased with alkyl chain length of the organic modifier in the filler; 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium clay and maximum conversion (99%) was observed for PVDF-1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium modified clay composite with 2% loading. The phase conversion was evident from X-ray diffraction, DSC analysis and improved electrical properties. AFM analysis of PVDF-1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium montmorillonite clay composite (PVDF-C4) showed a shish-kebab structure while pristine PVDF and all other composites showed spherulite structures. Computational studies revealed that the extended chain α-phase forms the 'shish', the back bone and folded chain β-phase forms the 'kebab'. This was further supported by the superior mechanical properties for PVDF-C4 composite. Present work shows that introducing ionic liquid modified MMT-clay within the PVDF matrix enables nucleation of electroactive β phase and the presence of equal content of α and β phases can lead to the formation of self reinforced shish-kebab structures in PVDF.

Graphical abstract

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Chemistry, polymer dynamics and mechanical properties of a two-part polyurethane elastomer during and after crosslinking. Part I: dry conditions

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Bettina Zimmer, Christophe Nies, Christian Schmitt, Wulff Possart
Due to their chemical and morphological versatility, polyurethanes may be susceptible to fabrication conditions (curing procedure, moisture). Industry reports 'maturation' phenomena, i.e. unstable mechanical properties of PU elastomers and PU based adhesive joints right after fabrication. This paper elucidates the impact of fabrication conditions and possible causes of maturation. Chemical and physical bulk properties of a crosslinking two-part PU are monitored during and after cure in dry atmosphere (at room temperature followed by a post-cure). The influence of curing procedure is revealed by processes characteristic of the post-cure, i.e. chemical side reactions (allophanate, carbodiimide) and a new dielectric relaxation. Tensile tests demonstrate the practical relevance of the findings (mechanical modulus). Properties of the fully crosslinked, dryly stored PU are stable during a three-week observation, indicating that maturation is preventable by complete cure and dry conditions. In contrast, chemical crosslinking after an insufficient cure likely causes maturation phenomena.

Graphical abstract

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Oxidatively stable thermosets derived from thermal copolymerization of acetylene-terminated imide monomer with an acetylenic monomer containing carborane

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Shengli Cheng, Jianhua Han, Xin Wang, Kuanyu Yuan, Xigao Jian, Jinyan Wang
One acetylenic monomer (APCB) containing carborane with extremely thermal and thermo-oxidative stability was synthesized and used as the thermal copolymerization component with acetylene-terminated imide monomer (m-EFDA) to improve the thermal and thermo-oxidative stability of the polyimide materials. The curing behavior of the blends of imide monomer and APCB was investigated by FT-IR and DSC. Rheometer study showed that the addition of APCB into m-EFDA reduced the minimum complex viscosity of m-EFDA and lowered the temperature of the minimum viscosity. The thermal and thermo-oxidative stability of the thermoset derived from m-EFDA was greatly improved by the addition of APCB based on thermogravimetric analysis. m-EFDA with an addition of APCB at a loading level of 50 wt% exhibited a high char yield of 91.5% at 1000 °C in air and a weight retention of 95.6% was obtained after aging in air at 400 and 500 °C for 5 h, respectively.

Graphical abstract

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Topology driven structural transition of dendrimers with a dimensional cross-over

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Gobind Ji Rai, Parbati Biswas
This contribution proposes the present day picture of dendrimers as a transition from a non-compact sphere to a dense space filling hyperbolic topology, which contradicts the existing perception of a dendrimer with a dense core and open periphery. The unusual maximum in the generation dependent intrinsic viscosity is analyzed within the framework of the optimized Rouse-Zimm theory with excluded volume interactions between the nearest non-bonded monomers. The position of this maximum represents the onset of this structural transition, which is accompanied by a change in the overall shape, characterized by a cross-over from the Euclidean to non-Euclidean dimensions. This structural transition is a characteristic feature of the topology of dendrimers. The actual available volume is a discontinuous function of generation, rather than a continuous cubic power-law in three dimensions. This implies that the core of dendrimers are dense, while the terminal groups are distributed throughout the core and periphery. Hence, large dendrimers, which are extremely dense objects with highly crowded peripheries exhibit fractal nature with a fractal dimension greater than 3.

Graphical abstract

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Structural engineering of poly-(methacrylate) bearing push-pull type pendants oxindole-phenothiazine with tetrazole anchoring acceptor for efficient organic photovoltaic cells

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Selvam Ramasamy, Mani Boopathy, Samuel Johnsanthoshkumar, Kathavarayan Subramanian
In this study, we report three new metal-free molecularly engineered pendant chromophore bearing polymers, coded POTZP1, POTZP2 and POTZP3. Push-pull methacrylate polymer-sensitizers consisting of phenothiazine as donor and oxindole as π-conjugating linker and tetrazole as anchoring/acceptor, were designed and synthesized for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Optical, electrochemical and photovoltaic properties of the three polymers were systematically investigated. POTZP3-polymer incorporated di-anchoring tetrazole unit exhibited more effective inhibition of charge recombination and greater conducive to electron injection into TiO2 conduction band than the reference polymer (POTZP1) with only single anchor. Under AM 1.5 solar radiation (100 mW cm^─2), the POTZP3-based DSSC device exhibited an attractive power conversion efficiency (PCE, η) up to 5.91%, compared to 3.97% for the POTZP1-based device. The results indicate that the solar cell (TiO2/polymer) performance can be finely modulated through structural engineering of the polymer side-chain.

Graphical abstract

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Swelling-diffusion-interfacial polymerized core-shell typed polystyrene/poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) microspheres and their electro-responsive characteristics

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Ji Su An, Il Jae Moon, Seung Hyuk Kwon, Hyoung Jin Choi
We synthesized core-shell structured conducting polystyrene/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PS/PEDOT) microspheres and examined their electro-responsive electrorheological (ER) properties under an applied electric field when dispersed in a silicone oil. Monodisperse PS particles 1.05 μm in diameter were initially fabricated via dispersion polymerization, and PS/PEDOT microspheres with average diameters of approximately 1.07 μm were prepared by a swelling-diffusion-interfacial polymerization process. The morphology of the PS/PEDOT microspheres was confirmed by both field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, while their chemical structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Formation of particle chains in the ER fluid was directly observed by optical microscopy under an applied electric field. The rheological behavior of the PS/PEDOT particle-based ER fluid was examined using a rotational rheometer on particles dispersed in silicone oil at a volume fraction of 10%. As the electric field was strengthened, the performance of the ER fluid was also enhanced. The dielectric spectra were also well correlated to their ER effects using an LCR meter.

Graphical abstract

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Hypercrosslinked polyHIPEs as precursors to designable, hierarchically porous carbon foams

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Robert T. Woodward, Arthur Jobbe-Duval, Sofia Marchesini, David B. Anthony, Camille Petit, Alexander Bismarck
Hierarchically porous carbon foams were produced by carbonization of hypercrosslinked polymerized high internal phase water-in-styrene/divinylbenzene emulsions (HIPEs). The hypercrosslinking of these poly(ST-co-DVB)HIPEs was achieved using a dimethoxymethane external crosslinker to 'knit' together aromatic groups within the polymers using Friedel-Crafts alkylation. By varying the amount of divinylbenzene (DVB) in the HIPE templates and subsequent polymers, the BET surface area and micropore volume of the hypercrosslinked analogues can be varied systematically, allowing for the production of carbon foams, or 'carboHIPEs', with varied surface areas, micropore volumes and pore-size distributions. The carboHIPEs retain the emulsion-templated macropores of the original polyHIPE, display excellent electrical conductivities and have surface areas of up to 417 m²/g, all the while eliminating the need for inorganic templates. The use of emulsion templates allows for pourable, mouldable precursors to designable carbonaceous materials.

Graphical abstract

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Heterogeneity in polymer networks formed by a single copolymerization reaction: I. Gelation and pre-gel structure

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): D.M. Kroll, S.G. Croll
Coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of the formation of 3- and 6-functional polymer networks explicitly shows gelation via large dendritic clusters. The heterogeneous network structures are studied in detail; clusters have pendant structures and occupy significant volume fraction. Cluster fractal dimension and the Fisher exponent for cluster size are consistent with percolation theory and kinetic gelation models. Several criteria for determining gelation yield consistent results somewhat higher than the estimate for ideal networks on regular lattices. Almost all crosslink loop formation occurs after gelation just as traditional statistical theories assume. The presence and size of these clusters provide a natural explanation for density variations seen in microscopy studies of crosslinked polymers. The second paper in this series describes how the network structure develops after gelation. Large pendant structures, and more localized defects, persist and comprise a substantial fraction of material that is not contributing to network strength.

Graphical abstract

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Effect of solvent on the dipole rotation of poly(vinylidene fluoride) during porous membrane formation by precipitation in alcohol baths

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Hsu-Hsien Chang, Liang-Kuei Chang, Cheng-Dau Yang, Dar-Jong Lin, Liao-Ping Cheng
Microporous PVDF membranes were prepared by isothermal immersion precipitation of PVDF/DMSO and PVDF/TEP casting dopes in different alcohol baths. The formed membranes exhibited the so-called particulate morphology, being packed by interconnected crystalline particles of a similar size. For the alcohol/TEP/PVDF system, the particles appeared as sheaf-like spherulites consisting of curled lamellae with thickness of ∼15 nm. In contrast, for the alcohol/DMSO/PVDF system, the formed membranes comprise relatively compact globules whose surface was covered with granular objects of ca. 30 nm dia. Wide angle X-ray diffraction patterns of the membranes indicate that the sheaf-like crystals were of the α-type structure, while the compact globules the γ-type structure, as were confirmed by FTIR-ATR analyses. ¹⁹F NMR spectroscopy indicated that PVDF chains exhibited TG⁺TG⁻ conformation in TEP and T3G⁺T3G⁻ conformation in DMSO. These conformations remained unchanged during immersion-precipitation to yield the α- and γ-type crystal structures. The crystallinity of the membranes, as determined by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry, was found to be ∼68%. Furthermore, desalination by membrane-distillation of 3.5% NaCl(aq) feed at 50 °C were carried to see the desalination capability of the membranes. High fluxes (10–13 LMH) and rejections (∼99.8%) were obtained for both types of membranes.

Graphical abstract

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From a flexible hyperbranched polyimide to a microporous polyimide network: Microporous architecture and carbon dioxide adsorption

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Hongyan Yao, Na Zhang, Kunzhi Shen, Ningning Song, Kaixiang Shi, Shiyang Zhu, Yunhe Zhang, Shaowei Guan
A dianhydride monomer 2, 5-bis(3, 4-dicarboxyphenoxy)-4′-phenylethynyl biphenyl (PEPHQDA) containing a chain extendable phenylethynyl pendant group has been successfully synthesized via successive nucleophilic substitution, Sonogashira cross-coupling, hydrolysis and dehydration reactions. A flexible microporous polyimide network has been prepared based on the use of triamine (TAPOB), affording hyperbranched polyimide, followed by the curing of phenylethynyl groups to give network structure. Specifically microporous features such as a well-defined surface morphology, microporous structure and nanometer-sized pore channels have been introduced to the flexible polyimide networks through this two-step pathway. This network exhibit a BET surface area (322 m² g⁻¹) as well as a comparable CO2 uptake (1.25 mmol g⁻¹ at 273 K and 1 bar) and enthalpy of adsorption (30.3 kJ mol⁻¹) to that of other microporous polyimides derived from rigid tridimensional monomers.

Graphical abstract

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Modeling of gas solubility and permeability in glassy and rubbery membranes using lattice fluid theory

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Sina Nabati Shoghl, Ahmadreza Raisi, Abdolreza Aroujalian
In this study, the lattice fluid (LF) and non-equilibrium lattice fluid (NELF) theories combined with the modified Fick's law and free volume theory were employed to develop mass transfer models for the prediction of gas sorption and permeation in glassy and rubbery membranes in a wide range of temperature and pressure. The finite element method using COMSOL multi-physics software was used to solve the governing transport equations. The gas sorption into the glassy membranes shows a non-equilibrium behavior in spite of the rubbery membranes in which the gas sorption is in the equilibrium state. The results indicated that the membranes with higher fractional free volume show higher solubility and diffusion coefficients. The proposed model can predict satisfactory the gas solubility and permeability in the glassy and rubbery membranes and determine the influence of operating pressure and temperature on the transport properties of the membranes without need of any adjustable parameters.

Graphical abstract

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Bulk physical aging behavior of cross-linked polystyrene compared to its linear precursor: Effects of cross-linking and aging temperature

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Kailong Jin, Lingqiao Li, John M. Torkelson
The bulk physical aging behavior of cross-linked polystyrene (PS) is directly compared to that of its linear precursor polystyrene-co-vinylbenzocyclobutene (PS-VBCB) with 8.5 or 12.5 mol% VBCB content. The VBCB units incorporated into a linear PS precursor cross-link with one another upon annealing at 250 °C. Physical aging rates of bulk PS-VBCB films before and after cross-linking are characterized using ellipsometry by monitoring the decrease in thickness during isothermal annealing at a specific aging temperature (Ta) below the glass transition temperature (Tg). Physical aging rates show strong dependences on Ta values, with neat PS, linear PS-VBCB precursors with 8.5 or 12.5 mol% VBCB, and cross-linked PS with 8.5 mol% VBCB exhibiting maxima at Ta - Tg = −40 to −30 °C. In contrast, cross-linked PS with 12.5 mol% VBCB exhibits a maximum aging rate at Ta - Tg = −65 to −45 °C. The distribution of Ta-dependent aging rates broadens in cross-linked PS samples compared to linear precursors, which is correlated with increased Tg breadth or heterogeneity after cross-linking. Comparisons of aging rates of cross-linked PS with linear precursors demonstrate that cross-linking can lead to an increased, decreased, or unchanged aging rate depending on the values of Ta and Ta - Tg: e.g., when Ta - Tg > −60 °C, both cross-linked PS samples have a lower aging rate compared to their linear precursors at the same Ta - Tg whereas the cross-linked PS exhibits a similar or even greater aging rate compared to the linear precursor when Ta - Tg < −60 °C. These results help to reconcile previous seemingly contradictory observations regarding effects of cross-linking on physical aging rates. To the best of our knowledge, cross-linking induced enhancement of physical aging rates of cross-linked polymers relative to their linear precursors at the same Ta - Tg value is being reported for the first time here.

Graphical abstract

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Crystal polymorphism of polylactides and poly(Pro-alt-CO): The metastable beta and gamma phases. Formation of homochiral PLLA phases in the PLLA/PDLA blends

Publication date: 21 April 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 115
Author(s): Bernard Lotz, Gao Li, Xuesi Chen, Jordi Puiggali
Among the various crystalline phases of polylactides, an elusive orthorhombic gamma phase (γPLLA) had been obtained so far only by epitaxial crystallization on hexamethylbenzene. A recent work by J. Shao et al. (Macromolecules, 2013, 46, 6933) reports on two "novel modified crystallites" of PLLA obtained "under the confinement of stereocomplex PLLA/PDLA crystallites" produced on cooling blends of PLLA and PDLA from the melt at specific rates. These novel modified crystallites are metastable and transform to the stable αPLLA on heating. Reinterpretation of Shao et al.'s DSC and X-ray data suggests that one novel modified crystallite is the elusive γPLLA. The second form could be a disordered hexagonal phase that blends PDLA and PLLA three-fold helices, although the structural evidence is less compelling. In a parallel line of analysis, a crystal modification of the related alternating copolymer of propene and carbon monoxide (poly(Pro-alt-CO)) described as an orthorhombic structure very similar to γPLLA by Anokhin et al. (Polymer Science, Ser. A, Vol. 46, No. 1, 2004, pp. 52–60) must be reinterpreted as a trigonal frustrated phase, a phase that has already been observed in single crystals of this polymer.

Graphical abstract

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Technetium-99m radiolabeled paclitaxel as an imaging probe for breast cancer in vivo

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 89
Author(s): Liziane O.F. Monteiro, Renata S. Fernandes, Luciano C. Castro, Valbert N. Cardoso, Mônica C. Oliveira, Danyelle M. Townsend, Alice Ferretti, Domenico Rubello, Elaine A. Leite, André L.B. de Barros
The high incidence and mortality of breast cancer supports efforts to develop innovative imaging probes to effectively diagnose, evaluate the extent of the tumor, and predict the efficacy of tumor treatments while concurrently and selectively delivering anticancer agents to the cancer tissue. In the present study we described the preparation of technetium–99m (^99mTc)-labeled paclitaxel (PTX) and evaluated its feasibility as a radiotracer for breast tumors (4T1) in BALB/c mice. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was used to determine the radiochemical purity and in vitro stability of ^99mTc-PTX. PTX micelles showed a unimodal distribution with mean diameter of 13.46±0.06nm. High radiochemical purity (95.8±0.3%) and in vitro stability (over than 95%), up to 24h, were observed. Blood circulation time of ^99mTc-PTX was determined in healthy BALB/c mice. ^99mTc-PTX decays in a one-phase manner with a half-life of 464.3 minutes. Scintigraphic images and biodistribution were evaluated at 4, 8 and 24h after administration of ^99mTc-PTX in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. The data showed a significant uptake in the liver, spleen and kidneys, due to the importance of these routes for excretion. Moreover, high tumor uptake was achieved, indicated by high tumor-to-muscle ratios. These findings indicate the usefulness of ^99mTc-PTX as a radiotracer to identify 4T1 tumor in animal models. In addition, ^99mTc-PTX might be used to follow-up treatment protocols in research, being able to provide information about tumor progression after therapy.



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Angiomodulators in cancer therapy: New perspectives

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 89
Author(s): Lenka Varinska, Peter Kubatka, Jan Mojzis, Anthony Zulli, Katarina Gazdikova, Pavol Zubor, Dietrich Büsselberg, Martin Caprnda, Radka Opatrilova, Iveta Gasparova, Martin Klabusay, Martin Pec, Eitan Fibach, Mariusz Adamek, Peter Kruzliak
The formation of new blood vessels plays a crucial for the development and progression of pathophysiological changes associated with a variety of disorders, including carcinogenesis. Angiogenesis inhibitors (anti-angiogenics) are an important part of treatment for some types of cancer. Some natural products isolated from marine invertebrates have revealed antiangiogenic activities, which are diverse in structure and mechanisms of action. Many preclinical studies have generated new models for further modification and optimization of anti-angiogenic substances, and new information for mechanistic studies and new anti-cancer drug candidates for clinical practice. Moreover, in the last decade it has become apparent that galectins are important regulators of tumor angiogenesis, as well as microRNA. MicroRNAs have been validated to modulate endothelial cell migration or endothelial tube organization.In the present review we summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of marine-derived natural products, galectins and microRNAs in tumor angiogenesis.



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Improved yeast delivery of fluconazole with a nanostructured lipid carrier system

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 89
Author(s): Hamid Reza Kelidari, Maryam Moazeni, Roghayeh Babaei, Majid Saeedi, Jafar Akbari, Parisa Islami Parkoohi, Mojtaba Nabili, Atefeh Abdollahi Gohar, Katayoun Morteza-Semnani, Ali Nokhodchi
Despite the growing trends in the number of patients at risk for invasive fungal infections, management with current antifungal agents results in complications due to changes in the epidemiology and drug susceptibility of invasive fungal infections. In the present research fluconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers were prepared using probe ultrasonication techniques and investigated the efficacy of the optimal formulation on a large number of Candida species. The morphology of the obtained nanostructured lipid carriers was characterized by transmission-electron microscopy. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for the new formulations against strains of Candida were investigated using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute document M27-A3 and M27-S4 as a guideline. The fluconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers presented a spherical shape with a mean diameter, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency of 126.4±15.2nm, −35.1±3.0mV, and 93.6±3.5%, respectively. The drug release from fluconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers exhibited burst-release behavior at the initial stage followed by sustained release over 24h. Using a new formulation of fluconazole led to a significant decrease in MICs for all Candida groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, C. albicans isolates showed more susceptibility to fluconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers than C. glabrata and C. parapsilosis (P<0.05). The MIC50 drug concentration was obtained as 0.0625, 0.031 and 0.25μg/ml for fluconazole-resistant strains of C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. parapsilosis, respectively. In conclusion, a novel delivery system which can be used as part of a strategy to improve the antifungal activity of fluconazole against various Candida strains with different susceptibilities to conventional formulations of fluconazole was evaluated.



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Caffeine prevents changes in muscle caused by high-intensity interval training

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 89
Author(s): Juliano M. Vieira, Jessié M. Gutierres, Fabiano B. Carvalho, Luciane B. Pereira, Liziele S. Oliveira, Vera Maria Morsch, Maria Rosa C. Schetinger, Marília V. Rodrigues, Jossiele Leitemperger, Vânia Loro, Cristina C. Krewer, Marina S. Vencato, Roselia M. Spanevello
The use of ergogenic substances such as caffeine has become a strategy to enhance sports performance. In the present study we evaluated the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) associated with caffeine intake on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Ca²⁺ATPase activity and glycogen levels in the muscles of rats were evaluated. The animals were divided in groups: control, caffeine 4 or 8mg/kg, HIIT, HIIT plus caffeine 4 or caffeine 8mg/kg. Our results showed a decrease in glycogen levels in muscle in all trained groups after acute session exercise, while that an increase in glycogen levels was observed in all groups in relation to control in chronic exercise protocol. HIIT increases the thickness of the left ventricle and the Ca²⁺-ATPase activity and decrease the AChE activity in gastrocnemius muscle. Caffeine treatment prevents changes in enzymes activities as well as left ventricular hypertrophy adaptation induced by HIIT. Our findings suggest that caffeine modulates crucial pathways for muscle contraction in HIIT.



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Pancreatoprotective effects of Geniotrigona thoracica stingless bee honey in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced male diabetic rats

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 89
Author(s): Muhammad Shakir Abdul Aziz, Nelli Giribabu, Pasupuleti Visweswara Rao, Naguib Salleh
Stingless bee honey (SLBH) has been claimed to possess multiple health benefits. Its anti-diabetic properties are however unknown. In this study, ability of SLBH from Geniotrigona thoracica stingless bee species in ameliorating pancreatic damage and in maintaining metabolic profiles were investigated in diabetic condition.MethodsSLBH at 1 and 2g/kg/b.w. was given orally to streptozotocin (STZ)-nicotinamide-induced male diabetic rats for 28days. Metabolic parameters (fasting blood glucose-FBG and lipid profiles-LP and serum insulin) were measured by biochemical assays. Distribution and expression level of insulin, oxidative stress marker i.e. catalase, inflammatory markers i.e. IKK-β, TNF-α, IL-1β and apoptosis marker i.e. caspase-9 in the pancreatic islets were identified and quantified respectively by immunohistochemistry. Levels of NF-κβ in pancreas were determined by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA).ResultsSLBH administration to diabetic male rats prevented increase in FBG, total cholesterols (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. However, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and serum insulin levels in diabetic rats receiving SLBH increased. Additionally, histopathological changes and expression level of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis markers in pancreatic islets of diabetic rats decreased with increased expression level of insulin in the islets. LC–MS analysis revealed the presence of several compounds in SLBH that might be responsible for these effects.ConclusionsSLBH has great potential to be used as agent to protect the pancreas against damage and dysfunction where these could account for its anti-diabetic properties.



http://ift.tt/2ngAtUt

AMIStem Primary Hip System Prospective Post-marketing Multi-centre Surveillance Study

Conditions:   Osteoarthritis;   Arthritis;   Avascular Necrosis;   Fracture of the Femoral Neck or Head;   Congenital Hip Dysplasia
Intervention:   Device: AMIStem Hip System
Sponsor:   Medacta International SA
Recruiting - verified April 2016

http://ift.tt/2nP0soV

Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Cervical Cancer Patients Receiving Chemoradiation

Condition:   Cervical Cancer
Intervention:  
Sponsors:   Mackay Memorial Hospital;   National Science Council, Taiwan
Recruiting - verified March 2017

http://ift.tt/2n15hXO

Surface ligands engineering of semiconductor quantum dots for chemosensory and biological applications

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Jie Zhou, Yun Liu, Jian Tang, Weihua Tang
Featuring size-tunable electrical and optical properties, semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are appealing intensive interests in developing ingenious luminescent materials for chemosensory and biological applications. The surface modification of QDs with functional ligands not only fine-tunes the physiochemical properties and fluorescence emission behaviors, but also induces the designated interplay between analytes and probes for special determination. In this review, the fundamental principles guiding the rational design of high-efficiency luminescent sensors with surface engineering are overviewed. The state-of-the-art applications of QDs-based probes are highlighted for the sensing of molecular substrates and ionic species as well as various biological applications, with the inherent recognition mechanisms elaborated for representative cases. The challenge and future research direction in this emerging and promising research field are also discussed.



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Noncoronary Vascular Calcification, Bone Mineral Density, and Muscle Mass in Institutionalized Frail Nonagenarians

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Morphological Variability in Second Language Learners: An Examination of Electrophysiological and Production Data.

Author: Aleman Banon, Jose; Miller, David; Rothman, Jason

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000394

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 23 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mB4OzY

Language Switching Across Modalities: Evidence From Bimodal Bilinguals.

Author: Dias, Patricia; Villameriel, Saul; Giezen, Marcel R.; Costello, Brendan; Carreiras, Manuel

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000402

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 23 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2o1q3rY

How Perception Guides Action: Figure-Ground Segmentation Modulates Integration of Context Features into S-R Episodes.

Author: Frings, Christian; Rothermund, Klaus

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000403

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 23 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mARSKJ

The Sequence of Study Changes What Information Is Attended to, Encoded, and Remembered During Category Learning.

Author: Carvalho, Paulo F.; Goldstone, Robert L.

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000406

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 23 March 2017

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Intratumoral Heterogeneity in Breast Cancer: A Comparison of Primary and Metastatic Breast Cancers

Intratumoral heterogeneity presents challenges in the management of cancer. To gain deeper insight in intratumoral heterogeneity at different levels and tumor sites for common biomarkers in breast cancers, this report examines seven cases of invasive breast cancer with multiple axillary nodal metastases and/or recurrences for immunohistochemical expression of estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, human epidermal growth receptor 2, and Ki67 on all tissue blocks in both primary and metastatic tumors. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–4

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A Prospective Observational Study on Effect of Short-Term Periodic Steroid Premedication on Bone Metabolism in Gastrointestinal Cancer (ESPRESSO-01)

Background.

A multicenter prospective observational study evaluated the effect of gastrointestinal cancer chemotherapy with short-term periodic steroid premedication on bone metabolism.

Patients and Methods.

Seventy-four patients undergoing chemotherapy for gastrointestinal cancer were studied. The primary endpoints were changes in bone mineral densities (BMDs) and metabolic bone turnover 16 weeks after initiation of chemotherapy. BMDs, measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and serum cross-linked N-telopeptides of type I collagen (sNTX), and bone alkaline phosphatase (sBAP) were assessed for evaluation of bone resorption and formation, respectively.

Results.

In 74.3% (55/74) of the patients, BMDs were significantly reduced at 16 weeks relative to baseline. The percent changes of BMD were –1.89% (95% confidence interval [CI], –2.67% to –1.11%: p < .0001) in the lumbar spine, –2.24% (95% CI, –3.59% to –0.89%: p = .002) in the total hip, and –2.05% (95% CI, –3.11% to –0.99%: p < .0001) in the femoral neck. Although there was no significant difference in sNTX levels during 16 weeks (p = .136), there was a significant increase in sBAP levels (p = .010). Decreased BMD was significantly linked to number of chemotherapy cycles (p = .02). There were no significant correlations between changes in BMDs and the primary site of malignancy, chemotherapy regimens, total cumulative steroid dose, steroid dose intensity, and additive steroid usage.

Conclusion.

Gastrointestinal cancer chemotherapy with periodic glucocorticoid premedication was associated with reduced BMD and increased sBAP levels, which were linked to number of chemotherapy cycles but independent of primary site, chemotherapy regimen, duration, and additive steroid usage. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–9

Implications for Practice.

Bone health and the management of treatment-related bone loss are important for cancer care. The present study showed that a significant decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) and an increase in serum bone alkaline phosphatase levels occurred in gastrointestinal cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, which were linked to number of chemotherapy cycles but were independent of primary site, chemotherapy regimen, total steroid dose, and steroid dose intensity. Surprisingly, it seems that the decreasing BMD levels after only 16 weeks of chemotherapy for gastrointestinal cancer were comparable to that of 12-month adjuvant aromatase inhibitor therapy for early-stage breast cancer patients.

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Cardiac Safety of Dual Anti-HER2 Therapy in the Neoadjuvant Setting for Treatment of HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Background.

Trastuzumab and pertuzumab are approved for the neoadjuvant treatment of human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer, but cardiac safety data is limited. We report the cardiac safety of dose-dense doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC) followed by paclitaxel, trastuzumab, and pertuzumab (THP) in the neoadjuvant setting followed by adjuvant trastuzumab-based therapy.

Methods.

Fifty-seven patients treated with neoadjuvant dose-dense AC-THP followed by adjuvant trastuzumab-based therapy between September 1, 2013, and March 1, 2015, were identified. The primary outcome was cardiac event rate, defined by heart failure (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class III/IV) or cardiac death. Patients underwent left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) monitoring at baseline, after AC, and serially during 1 year of anti-HER2 therapy.

Results.

The median age was 46 years (range 26–68). Two (3.5%) patients developed NYHA class III/IV heart failure 5 and 9 months after initiation of trastuzumab-based therapy, leading to permanent discontinuation of anti-HER2 treatment. Seven (12.3%) patients developed a significant LVEF decline (without NYHA class III/IV symptoms). The median LVEF was 65% (range 55%–75%) at baseline and 64% (range 53%–72%) after AC, and decreased to 60% (range 35%–70%), 60% (range 23%–73%), 61% (range 25%–73%), and 58% (range 28%–66%) after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months (± 6 weeks) of trastuzumab-based therapy.

Conclusion.

The incidence of NYHA class III/IV heart failure after neoadjuvant AC-THP (followed by adjuvant trastuzumab-based therapy) is comparable to rates reported in trials of sequential doxorubicin and trastuzumab. Our findings do not suggest an increased risk of cardiotoxicity from trastuzumab plus pertuzumab following a doxorubicin-based regimen. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–6

Implications for Practice: Dual anti-human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER2) therapy with trastuzumab and pertuzumab combined with standard chemotherapy has received accelerated approval for the neoadjuvant treatment of stage II–III HER2-positive breast cancer. Cardiac safety data for trastuzumab and pertuzumab in this setting are limited to clinical trials that utilized epirubicin-based chemotherapy. Formalized investigations into the cardiac safety of trastuzumab and pertuzumab with doxorubicin- (rather than epirubicin) based regimens are important because these regimens are widely used for the adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment of breast cancer. The known role of HER2 signaling in the physiological adaptive responses of the heart provides further rationale for study on the potential cardiotoxicity of dual anti-HER2 blockade. Findings from this retrospective study provide favorable preliminary data on the cardiac safety of trastuzumab and pertuzumab in combination with a regimen of neoadjuvant doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by paclitaxel, one of the preferred breast cancer treatment regimens, according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

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A Phase Ib Study of Sorafenib (BAY 43-9006) in Patients with Kaposi Sarcoma

Lessons Learned.

Oral targeted agents are desirable for treatment of Kaposi sarcoma (KS); however, in patients with HIV, drug–drug interactions must be considered. In this study to treat KS, sorafenib was poorly tolerated at doses less than those approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for hepatocellular carcinoma and other cancers, and showed only modest activity.

Sorafenib's metabolism occurs via the CYP3A4 pathway, which is inhibited by ritonavir, a commonly used antiretroviral agent used by most patients in this study. Strong CYP3A4 inhibition by ritonavir may contribute to the observed sorafenib toxicity.

Alternate antiretroviral agents without predicted interactions are preferred for co-administration in patients with HIV and cancers for which sorafenib is indicated.

Background.

We conducted a phase Ib study of sorafenib, a vascular epithelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), c-kit, and platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)-targeted treatment in Kaposi sarcoma (KS). We evaluated drug–drug interactions between sorafenib and ritonavir, an HIV medication with strong CYP3A4 inhibitory activity.

Methods.

Two cohorts were enrolled: HIV-related KS on ritonavir (Cohort R) and HIV-related or classical KS not receiving ritonavir (Cohort NR). Sorafenib dose level 1 in cohort R (R1) was 200 mg daily and 200 mg every 12 hours in cohort NR (NR1). Steady-state pharmacokinetics were evaluated at cycle 1, day 8. KS responses and correlative factors were assessed.

Results.

Ten patients (nine HIV⁺) were enrolled: R1 (eight), NR1 (two). Median CD4⁺ count (HIV⁺) was 500 cells/µL. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were grade 3 elevated lipase (R1), grade 4 thrombocytopenia (R1), and grade 3 hand-foot syndrome (NR1). Two of seven evaluable patients had a partial response (PR; 29%; 95% CI 4%–71%). Steady-state area under the curve of the dosing interval (AUC_TAU) of sorafenib was not significantly affected by ritonavir; however, a trend for decreased AUC_TAU of the CYP3A4 metabolite sorafenib-N-oxide (3.8-fold decrease; p = .08) suggests other metabolites may be increased.

Conclusion.

Sorafenib was poorly tolerated, and anti-KS activity was modest. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may contribute to sorafenib toxicity, and ritonavir has previously been shown to be a CYP3A4 inhibitor. Alternate antiretroviral agents without predicted interactions should be used when possible for concurrent administration with sorafenib. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–8

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In Memoriam: Umberto Veronesi (1925-2016)

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Semi-Local Tractography Strategies Using Neighborhood Information

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Medical Image Analysis
Author(s): Helen Schomburg, Thorsten Hohage
Fiber tractography based on Diffusion MRI measurements is a valuable tool for the detection and visual representation of neural pathways in vivo. We present a novel fiber orientation distribution function (ODF) based streamline tractography approach which incorporates information of neighboring regions derived from a Bayesian model. In each iteration step, the proposed algorithm defines a set of candidate fiber fragments continuing the already tracked path and assigns an a-posteriori probability. We compute the posterior as the normalized product of a likelihood function based on the given ODF-field and a prior distribution representing anatomical plausibility of a candidate fiber fragment with respect to tract curvature derived from the previously tracked fiber path by an extrapolation strategy. We derive both a deterministic tractography algorithm obtaining in each iteration a tracking direction by maximum a-posteriori estimation, as well as a probabilistic version drawing a direction from the marginalized posterior distribution. Compared to fiber tracking methods that rely only on the local ODF, the proposed algorithm proves more robust in the presence of noise and partial volume effects. We demonstrate the effectiveness of both our deterministic and probabilistic method on simulated, phantom, and in vivo data.

Graphical abstract

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A Novel Method of Neo-osseous Flap Prefabrication: Induction of Free Calvarial Periosteum with Bioactive Glass

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1598254

Background Reconstruction of craniofacial bone defects is a primary focus of craniofacial surgery. Although autogenous bone grafts remain as the gold standard, alloplastic materials have also gained widespread popularity due to their off-the-shelf availability, ease of use, and durability. In addition to replacing the missing bone, some of these alloplastic materials have also been found to induce new bone formation. Objectives In this study, the phenomenon of neo-osseous induction with bioactive glass was investigated for different implant-soft tissue configurations. Materials and Methods Thirty-two male, Wistar albino rats were divided into four equally numbered study groups. In group 1 (FP), adipofascial groin flaps were prefabricated with free periosteal grafts. In group 2 (FPB), adipofascial groin flaps were prefabricated with free periosteal grafts and bioactive glass. In group 3 (FB), adipofascial groin flaps were prefabricated with bioactive glass. In group 4 (control), adipofascial groin flaps were not prefabricated. Morphometric analyses of the prefabricated structures were performed using micro-CT. The histologic properties of the ectopic ossification were assessed by using a modified scoring system. Results Group 1 (FP) showed the greatest rate of mature lamellar bone formation. Group 2 (FBP) showed the greatest amount of bone density and volume. However, the addition of bioactive glass in group 2 (FBP) decreased the rate of mature lamellar bone formation when compared with group 1 (FP). Ectopic ossification was not observed in the control group. Conclusion Bioactive glass can be successfully used in the prefabrication of vascularized compound structures for the reconstruction of complex bone defects. However, interference with the periosteal induction of mature lamellar bone formation should be taken into consideration, especially in pediatric bone defects, which primarily rely on spontaneous osteogenesis through periosteal induction.
[...]

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

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Activatable bispecific liposomes bearing fibroblast activation protein directed single chain fragment / Trastuzumab deliver encapsulated cargo into the nuclei of tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment simultaneously

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Felista L. Tansi, Ronny Rüger, Claudia Böhm, Frank Steiniger, Roland E. Kontermann, Ulf K. Teichgraeber, Alfred Fahr, Ingrid Hilger
Molecular targeting plays a significant role in cancer diagnosis and therapy. However, the heterogeneity of tumors is a limiting obstacle for molecular targeting. Consequently, clinically approved drug delivery systems such as liposomes still rely on passive targeting to tumors, which does not address tumor heterogeneity. In this work, we therefore designed and elucidated the potentials of activatable bispecific targeted liposomes for simultaneous detection of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). The bispecific liposomes were encapsulated with fluorescence-quenched concentrations of the near-infrared fluorescent dye, DY-676-COOH, making them detectable solely post processing within target cells. The liposomes were endowed with a combination of single chain antibody fragments specific for FAP and HER2 respectively, or with the FAP single chain antibody fragment in combination with Trastuzumab, which is specific for HER2. The Trastuzumab based bispecific formulation, termed Bi-FAP/Tras-IL revealed delivery of the encapsulated dye into the nuclei of HER2 expressing cancer cells and caused cell death at significantly higher rates than the free Trastuzumab. Furthermore, fluorescence imaging and live microscopy of tumor models in mice substantiated the delivery of the encapsulated cargo into the nuclei of target tumor cells and tumor stromal fibroblasts. Hence, they convey potentials to address tumor plasticity, to improve targeted cancer therapy and reduce Trastuzumab resistance in the future.Statement of SignificanceThis work demonstrates the design of activatable bispecific liposomes aimed to target HER2, a poor prognosis tumor marker in many tumor types, and fibroblast activation protein (FAP), a universal tumor marker overexpressed on tumor fibroblasts and pericytes of almost all solid tumors. Encapsulating liposomes with a quenched concentration of a NIRF dye which only fluoresced after cellular degradation and activation enabled reliable visualization of the destination of the cargo in cells and animal studies. Conjugating single chain antibody fragments directed to FAP, together with Trastuzumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody for HER2 resulted in the activatable bispecific liposomes. In animal models of xenografted human breast tumors, the remarkable ability of the bispecific probes to simultaneously deliver the encapsulated dye into the nuclei of target tumor cells and tumor fibroblasts could be demonstrated. Hence, the bispecific probes represent model tools with high significance to address tumor heterogeneity and manage Trastuzumab resistance in the future.

Graphical abstract

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Cell Sheet Engineering Using the Stromal Vascular Fraction of Adipose Tissue as a Vascularization Strategy

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Marina Costa, Mariana T. Cerqueira, Tírcia C. Santos, Belém Sampaio-Marques, Paula Ludovico, Alexandra P. Marques, Rogério P. Pirraco, Rui L. Reis
Current vascularization strategies for Tissue Engineering constructs, in particular cell sheet-based, are limited by time-consuming and expensive endothelial cell isolation and/or by the complexity of using extrinsic growth factors. Herein, we propose an alternative strategy using angiogenic cell sheets (CS) obtained from the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of adipose tissue that can be incorporated into more complex constructs. Cells from the SVF were cultured in normoxic and hypoxic conditions for up to 8 days in the absence of extrinsic growth factors. Immunocytochemistry against CD31 and CD146 revealed spontaneous organization in capillary-like structures, more complex after hypoxic conditioning. Inhibition of HIF-1α pathway hindered capillary-like structure formation in SVF cells cultured in hypoxia, suggesting a role of HIF-1α. Moreover, hypoxic SVF cells showed a trend for increased secretion of angiogenic factors, which was reflected in increased network formation by endothelial cells cultured on matrigel using that conditioned medium. In vivo implantation of SVF CS in a mouse hind limb ischemia model revealed that hypoxia-conditioned CS led to improved restoration of blood flow. Both in vitro and in vivo data suggest that SVF CS can be used as simple and cost-efficient tools to promote functional vascularization of TE constructs.Statement of SignificanceNeovascularization after implantation is a major obstacle for producing clinically viable Cell Sheet-based tissue engineered constructs. Strategies using endothelial cells and extrinsic angiogenic growth factors are expensive and time consuming and may raise concerns of tumorigenicity. In this manuscript, we describe a simplified approach using angiogenic Cell Sheets fabricated from the stromal vascular fraction of adipose tissue. The strong angiogenic behavior of these Cell Sheets, achieved without the use of external growth factors, was further stimulated by low oxygen culture. When implanted in an in vivo model of hind limb ischemia, the angiogenic Cell Sheets contributed to blood flux recovery. These Cell Sheets can therefore be used as a straightforward tool to increase the neovascularization of Cell Sheet-based thick constructs.

Graphical abstract

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Imperatorin suppresses proliferation and angiogenesis of human colon cancer cell by targeting HIF-1α via the mTOR/p70S6K/4E-BP1 and MAPK pathways

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Chunliu Mi, Juan Ma, Ke Si Wang, Hong Xiang Zuo, Zhe Wang, Ming Yue Li, Lian Xun Piao, Guang Hua Xu, Xuezheng Li, Zhe Shan Quan, Xuejun Jin
Ethnopharmacological relevanceAngelica dahurica is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine to treat migraine headache, toothache and cancer. Imperatorin is an active natural furocoumarin component originating from Angelica dahurica and has been shown to exhibit multiple bioeffector functions, including anti-cancer activity. However, the mechanism by which imperatorin inhibits tumor growth is not fully understood.Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of imperatorin as a treatment of cancer and to identify the underlying mechanisms of its anticancer activity.Materials and methodsHCT116, HeLa, and Hep3B cells were used in this study. Major assays were promoter-reporter gene assay, MTT, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence assay, reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), flow cytometric analysis, clonogenic assay, EdU labeling and immunofluorescence, xenografted assay, and VEGF ELISA.ResultsWe here demonstrated the effect of imperatorin on hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) activation. Imperatorin showed a potent inhibitory activity against HIF-1 activation induced by hypoxia in various human cancer cell lines. This compound markedly decreased the hypoxia-induced accumulation of HIF-1α protein dose-dependently, whereas it did not affect the expressions of HIF-1β and topoisomerase-I (Topo-I). Further analysis revealed that imperatorin inhibited HIF-1α protein synthesis, without affecting the expression level of HIF-1α mRNA or degradation of HIF-1α protein. Moreover, the phosphorylation levels of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K), eIF4E binding protein-1 (4E-BP1), eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2), SAPK/JNK and p38 were significantly suppressed by imperatorin. Furthermore, imperatorin prevented hypoxia-induced expression of HIF-1 target genes and flow cytometric analysis indicated that imperatorin induced G1 phase arrest in human colon cancer cell (HCT116). We found that imperatorin administration inhibits tumor growth and blocks tumor angiogenesis in a xenograft tumor model.ConclusionsThese results show that imperatorin inhibited HIF-1α protein synthesis by downregulating the mTOR/p70S6K/4E-BP1 and MAPK pathways. These conclusions suggest that imperatorin is an effective inhibitor of HIF-1 and provide new perspectives into the mechanism of its anticancer activity.

Graphical abstract

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Herbal remedies for urinary stones used in India and China: A review

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Deepak M. Kasote, Suresh D. Jagtap, Dinesh Thapa, Mahendra S. Khyade, Wendy R. Russell
Ethanopharmacological relevanceThe process of formation or appearance of a urinary stone anywhere in the renal tract is known as urolithiasis. It is a longstanding health problem, known to exist since early age of civilization. Records about symptoms, signs and treatment strategies of urinary stones diseases are found in the several ancient texts of traditional medicines such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Siddha and Unani. In Ayurveda, urolithiasis has been considered as one of the eight most troublesome diseases. Ayurvedic management and cure of urinary stone involves herbal formulas, alkaline liquids and surgical procedures. Whereas, TCM recommends polyherbal drugs, acupuncture and mexibustion for treatment of the urinary stones. Among these therapies, herbal remedies are in practice till today for the treatment and cure urinary stone diseases.Materials and methodsA comprehensive review of the scientific literature about pathophysiology of urinary stones and antiurolithiatic plants was undertaken using the following bibliographic databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar. The search was conducted from publications from all years until Dec., 2015 by combination of the search terms and Boolean operators; 'urinary stone' OR 'kidney stone' AND 'plant' OR 'medicine' OR 'antiurolithiatic plants'. Outputs were restricted to those completed studies only published in English. In this review, literatures about plants which are used as diuretic and/or in treatment urinary tract infections have not also been considered. The Plant List and Royal Botanical Garden, Kew databases were used to authenticate botanical names of plants. Books and monographs published in English were used to collect information about historical records of antiurolithiatic plants.ResultsRecent pharmacological interventions accredited ancient antiurolithiatic claims to several plants and their formulations. The majority of antiurolithiatic plants were found to either dissolve the stones or inhibit the process of urinary stone formation. Plants such as Phyllanthus niruri L. and Elymus repens (L.) Gould, as well as herbal products including 'Wu-Ling-San' formula, 'Cystone' and 'Herbmed' have been proved their utility as promising antiurolithiatic medicines in the different phases of clinical trials. In addition, some of the isolated phytochemicals such as berberine, lupeol, khelin, visnagin, 7-hydroxy-2′,4′,5′-trimethoxyisoflavone and 7-hydroxy-4′-methoxyisoflavone were reported to have potent antiurolithiatic activity.ConclusionIn ancient medicinal texts, antiurolithiatic potential has been ascribed to several plants and their formulations. Present scientific studies provide scientific evidences for few of these claims however, they are insufficient to establish many of these plants and herbal formulations as therapeutic remedies for the treatment and management of urinary stones. Conversely, findings of pre-clinical and clinical studies about some plants and herbal formulations are promising, which underlines the utility of herbal remedies as alternative medicines for the treatment and management of urinary stones in the future.

Graphical abstract

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Antiplasmodial activity of Mezoneuron benthamianum leaves and identification of its active constituents

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Olivia Jansen, Alembert T. Tchinda, Jean Loua, Virginie Esters, Ewa Cieckiewicz, Allison Ledoux, Paul D. Toukam, Luc Angenot, Monique Tits, Aliou M. Balde, Michel Frédérich
Ethnopharmacological relevanceDecoctions of the leaves of M. benthamianum Baill. are used by traditional healers in Guinea to treat malaria and this use was validated by a preliminary clinical assay.Aim of the studyTo evaluate the in vitro antiplasmodial activity and to identify active compounds from extracts of M. benthamianum leaves.Material and methodsAntiplasmodial activity of extracts, fractions and pure compounds was evaluated in vitro against a chloroquine-sensitive strain of Plasmodium falciparum (3D7) using the measurement of the plasmodial lactate dehydrogenase activity. Selectivity of extracts and purified compounds for Plasmodium parasites was evaluated by using WST-1 test on HeLa human cells. Compounds were isolated using normal phase silica gel column chromatography and prepHPLC and their structures elucidated using extensive spectroscopic analysis.ResultsHydroethanolic extracts (70% v/v) of M. benthamianum leaves showed a moderate in vitro activity against P. falciparum 3D7, with IC50 in the range 22.5 – 32.6µg/mL, depending on the batch; while a dark precipitate formed during ethanol evaporation showed higher activity (IC50 =6.5µg/mL). The fractionation was performed on this most active fraction and was followed by in vitro antiplasmodial assay. Active compounds (5, 7, 8) belong to several phytochemical classes, contributing together to the global antiplasmodial activity of the hydroethanolic extract against P. falciparum parasite. This study finally allowed the isolation of three diterpenes including two new compounds named Mezobenthamic acids A (1) and B (2) and neocaesalpin H (3), as well as quercetin (4), kaempferol (7), resveratrol (6), gallic acid (9) and its ethylester (5), β-sitosterol glucoside (10) and 13b-hydroxy-pheophorbide a (8).ConclusionThis study gives some concrete evidence to support the ethnopharmacological use of Mezoneuron benthamianum leaves extract in the management of malaria. The active compounds can be further studied for their antiplasmodial potential, as well as their suitability to be used as quality markers for the standardization of this herbal drug from the Guinean traditional pharmacopeia.

Graphical abstract

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In vitro anti-diabetic activity of flavonoids and pheophytins from Allophylus cominia Sw . on PTP1B, DPPIV, alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): D.G. Semaan, J.O. Igoli, L. Young, E. Marrero, A.I. Gray, E.G. Rowan
BackgroundEthno-botanical information from diabetic patients in Cuba led to the identification of Allophylus cominia as a possible source of new drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2-DM).ExperimentalChemical characterization of the extracts from A. cominia was carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The extracts were tested for their activity on PTP1B, DPPIV, α-glucosidase enzymes and α-amylase.ResultsThe flavonoid rich fractions from A. cominia inhibited DPPIV enzyme (75.3±2.33%) at 30µg/ml and produced a concentration-dependent inhibition against DPPIV with a Ki value of 2.6µg/ml. At 30µg/ml, flavonoids and pheophytins extracts significantly inhibited PTP1B enzyme (100±2.6% and 68±1% respectively). The flavonoids, pheophytin A and pheophytin B fractions showed significant concentration-dependent inhibition against PTP1B with Ki values of 3µg/ml, 0.64µg/ml and 0.88µg/ml respectively. At 30µg/ml, the flavonoid fraction significantly inhibited α-glucosidase enzyme (86±0.3%) in a concentration-dependent pattern with a Ki value of 2µg/ml. None of the fractions showed significant effects on α-amylase. Fatty acids, tannins, pheophytins A and B, and a mixture of flavonoids were detected in the methanolic extract from A. cominia. The identified flavonoids were mearnsitrin, quercitrin, quercetin-3-alloside, and naringenin-7-glucoside.ConclusionThe pharmacological effects of the extracts from A. cominia earlier observed in experimental diabetic models was confirmed in this study. Thus a new drug or formulation for the treatment of T2-DM could be developed from A. cominia.

Graphical abstract

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Anemone rivularis inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase activity and tumor growth

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Tae-Wook Chung, Jung Hee Lee, Hee-Jung Choi, Mi-Ju Park, Eun-Yeong Kim, Jung Ho Han, Sebok Jang, Syng-Ook Lee, Sang Woo Lee, Jin Hang, Li Wan Yi, Ki-Tae Ha
Ethnopharmacological relevanceAnemone rivularis Buch.-Ham. ex DC. (Ranunculaceae) have been used as a traditional remedy for treatment of inflammation and cancer. However, there is no report demonstrating experimental evidence on anti-tumor action of A. rivularis.Aim of studyThe Warburg's effect, preference of aerobic glycolysis rather than oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) even in oxygen rich condition, is focused as one of major characteristics of malignant tumor. Thus, we investigated the effect of A. rivularis on the Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) kinases (PDHKs), a major molecular targets for reducing aerobic glycolysis.Materials and methodsThe ethanol extract of whole plant of A. rivularis (ARE), fingerprinted by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), was applied to in vitro and cell-based PDHK activity assays. The effect of ARE on cell viabilities of several tumor cells was estimated by MTT assay. The expression of phosphor-PDH, PDH and PDHK1 were measured by Western blot analysis. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis was measured by fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, using 5-(and-6)-carboxy-2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (carboxy-H2DCFDA) and Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining, respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential was examined by tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester (TMRM) staining. In vivo anti-tumor efficacy of ARE was estimated by means of tumor volume and weight using allograft injection of murine Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells to dorsa of C57BL/6 mice.ResultsARE inhibited the viabilities of several cancer cells, including MDA-MB321, K562, HT29, Hep3B, DLD-1, and LLC. ARE suppressed PDHK activity in in vitro kinase assay, and also inhibited aerobic glycolysis by reducing phosphorylation of PDHA in human DLD-1 colon cancer and murine LLC cells. The expression of PDHK1, a major isoform of PDHKs in cancer, was not affected by ARE treatment. Moreover, ARE increased the both ROS production and mitochondrial damage. In addition, ARE suppressed the in vitro tumor growth through mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. The growth rates of allograft LLC cells were also reduced by ARE treatment.ConclusionsHere, we firstly report that ARE inhibits PDHK activity and growth of tumor in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Therefore, we suggest ARE as a potential candidate for developing anti-cancer drugs.

Graphical abstract

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A botanical, phytochemical and ethnomedicinal review of the genus Mitragyna korth: Implications for products sold as kratom

Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 202
Author(s): Paula N. Brown, Jensen A. Lund, Susan J. Murch
Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe genus Mitragyna (Rubiacaeae) has been traditionally used in parts of Africa, Asia and Oceania. In recent years, there has been increased interest in species of Mitragyna with the introduction of products to western markets and regulatory uncertainty.Aim of the studyThis paper reviewed the traditional ethnomedicinal uses of leaves for species belonging to the genus Mitragyna with reference to the botany and known chemistry in order to highlight areas of interest for products currently being sold as kratom.Materials and methodsA literature search was conducted using Web of Science, Google Scholar, the Royal Museum for Central Africa, Internet Archive, Hathi Trust, and Biodiversity Heritage Library search engines in the spring of 2015, fall of 2016 and winter of 2017 to document uses of bark, leaf and root material.ResultsLeaves of M. speciosa (kratom) had the most common documented ethnomedicinal uses as an opium substitute or remedy for addiction. Other species of Mitragyna were reportedly used for treating pain, however the mode of preparation was most often cited as topical application. Other uses of Mitragyna included treatment of fever, skin infections, and as a mild anxiolytic.ConclusionsMitragyna species have been used medicinally in various parts of the world and that there is significant traditional evidence of use. Modern products that include formulations as topical application of liniments, balms or tinctures may provide effective alternatives for treatment of certain types of pains. Future research is required to establish safety and toxicology limits, medicinal chemistry parameters and the potential for different physiological responses among varying genetic populations to support regulatory requirements for Mitragyna spp.

Graphical abstract

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Sutherlandia frutescens modulates adrenal hormone biosynthesis, acts as a selective glucocorticoid receptor agonist (SEGRA) and displays anti-mineralocorticoid properties

Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 202
Author(s): C.A. Sergeant, D. Africander, P. Swart, A.C. Swart
Ethnopharmacological relevanceSutherlandia frutescens is a traditional African medicinal plant used in the treatment of stress and anxiety, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties.Aim of studyThe study aimed at linking anti-stress and anti-inflammatory properties of S. frutescens to its influence on glucocorticoid biosynthesis and the inflammatory response via steroid receptor interaction.Materials and methodsThe influence of S. frutescens extracts and sutherlandioside B (SUB),10 and 30µM, on key steroidogenic enzymes was assayed in COS-1 cells. Effects were also assayed on basal and stimulated hormone levels in the adrenal H295R cell model. Agonist activity for transactivation and transrepression of the extract and SUB with the glucocorticoid- (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) was subsequently investigated.ResultsInhibitory effects of the extract towards progesterone conversion by CYP17A1 and CYP21A2 were significant. SUB inhibited CYP17A1 and 3β-HSD2, while not affecting CYP21A2. In H295R cells, SUB decreased cortisol and androgen precursors significantly. The extract decreased total steroid production (basal and stimulated) with cortisol and its precursor, deoxycortisol, together with mineralocorticoid metabolites significantly decreased under forskolin stimulated conditions. S. frutescens extracts and SUB repressed NF-κB-driven gene expression without activating GRE-driven gene expression and while neither activated MR mediated gene transcription, both antagonized the effects of aldosterone via the MR.ConclusionData provide evidence linking anti-stress, anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive properties of S. frutescens to inhibition of steroidogenic enzymes and modulation of adrenal hormone biosynthesis. Findings suggesting S. frutescens and SUB exhibit dissociated glucocorticoid characteristics underline potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of inflammation and hypertension.

Graphical abstract

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In situ determination of trace elements in Fucus spp. by field-portable-XRF

Publication date: 1 September 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 593–594
Author(s): Andrew Turner, Hiu Poon, Alex Taylor, Murray T. Brown
Fresh and freeze-dried sample sections of the coastal macroalgae, Fucus serratus and F. vesiculosus, and the brackish water macroalga, F. ceranoides, have been analysed for trace elements by field-portable-X-ray fluorescence (FP-XRF) spectrometry using a Niton XL3t in a low density mode with thickness correction. When analysed fresh in a laboratory accessory stand for a period of 200 seconds, As, Br, Fe and Zn were registered in the apex, mid-frond and lower stipe of all species, with detection limits of a few μg g⁻¹ (As) or a few tens of μg g⁻¹ (Br, Fe, Zn); when analysed dry under the same conditions, concentrations returned were systematically higher and Cu and Pb were detected in a number of F. ceranoides sections. Concentrations arising from both approaches on a dry weight basis were highly correlated, with deviations from unit slope attributed to the absorption of fluorescent X-rays by internal and surficial water when analysed fresh. With algorithms correcting for the effects of water on mass and X-ray absorption, sections of F. vesiculosus and F. ceranoides were analysed in situ with the XRF connected to a mobile stand and laptop. Dry weight concentrations returned for As and Zn were significantly correlated with respective concentrations subsequently determined by ICP-MS following acid digestion and with a slope close to unity; lower concentrations of Fe returned by ICP were attributed to the incomplete acid digestion of silt particles that evaded an initial cleaning step, while Br concentrations could not be verified independently because of loss of volatile forms during digestion. The in situ determination of trace elements in fucoids by FP-XRF provides a rapid and non-destructive means of monitoring environmental quality and identifying hot-spots of contamination, and enables a research strategy to be developed iteratively that is informed by immediate results.

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Topographic, optical and chemical properties of zinc particle coatings deposited by means of atmospheric pressure plasma

Publication date: 15 July 2017
Source:Applied Surface Science, Volume 410
Author(s): L.M. Wallenhorst, L. Loewenthal, G. Avramidis, C. Gerhard, H. Militz, G. Ohms, W. Viöl
In this research, topographic, optical and chemical properties of zinc oxide layers deposited by a cold plasma-spray process were measured. Here, zinc micro particles were fed to the afterglow of a plasma spark discharge whereas the substrates were placed in a quite cold zone of the effluent plasma jet. In this vein, almost closed layers were realised on different samples. As ascertained by laser scanning and atomic force microscopic measurements the particle size of the basic layer is in the nanometre scale. Additionally, larger particles and agglomerates were found on its top. The results indicate a partial plasma-induced diminishment of the initial particles, most probably due to melting or vaporisation. It is further shown that the plasma gives rise to an increased oxidation of such particles as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Quantitative analysis of the resulting mixed layer was performed. It is shown that the deposited layers consist of zinc oxide and elemental zinc in approximately equal shares. In addition, the layer's band gap energy was determined by spectroscopic analysis. Here, considerable UV blocking properties of the deposited layers were observed. Possible underlying effects as well as potential applications are presented.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

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Detection of norovirus virus-like particles using a surface plasmon resonance-assisted fluoroimmunosensor optimized for quantum dot fluorescent labels

Publication date: 15 July 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 93
Author(s): Hiroki Ashiba, Yuki Sugiyama, Xiaomin Wang, Haruko Shirato, Kyoko Higo-Moriguchi, Koki Taniguchi, Yoshimichi Ohki, Makoto Fujimaki
A highly sensitive biosensor to detect norovirus in environment is desired to prevent the spread of infection. In this study, we investigated a design of surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-assisted fluoroimmunosensor to increase its sensitivity and performed detection of norovirus virus-like particles (VLPs). A quantum dot fluorescent dye was employed because of its large Stokes shift. The sensor design was optimized for the CdSe-ZnS-based quantum dots. The optimal design was applied to a simple SPR-assisted fluoroimmunosensor that uses a sensor chip equipped with a V-shaped trench. Excitation efficiency of the quantum dots, degree of electric field enhancement by SPR, and intensity of autofluorescence of a substrate of the sensor chip were theoretically and experimentally evaluated to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio. As the result, an excitation wavelength of 390nm was selected to excite SPR on an Al film of the sensor chip. The sandwich assay of norovirus VLPs was performed using the designed sensor. Minimum detectable concentration of 0.01ng/mL, which corresponds to 100 virus-like particles included in the detection region of the V-trench, was demonstrated.



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The distribution of elements in the body of invasive Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne-Edwards, 1853) from Lake Dąbie, Poland

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, Volume 60
Author(s): Arkadiusz Nędzarek, Przemysław Czerniejewski, Arkadiusz Drost, Filip Harasimiuk, Sylwia Machula, Agnieszka Tórz, Paweł Masalski
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is an invasive species in the Baltic Sea catchment area. Its numbers in fishery are steadily growing and can potentially become a considerable export product. However, the meat of these crustaceans is known to accumulate contaminants, such as trace elements. Therefore, in this study we examined the content of Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, U, Zn in the claws, legs, and carapace of Chinese mitten crabs from Lake Dąbie (south-western catchment area of the Baltic Sea). Concentrations of Mo and U were within the sensitivity limit of the analytical method, and the average concentrations (inmgkg⁻¹dw) of the remaining elements ranged from 0.016 (Cd, claw meat) to 191 (Fe, carapace). The meat had very high concentrations of essential metals (Fe>20, Cu>17, Zn>16, Mn>2, in mgkg⁻¹ dw). The concentrations of Pb and Cd were 5 and 100 times lower than the threshold for foods established by the Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006. The meat of crabs from Lake Dąbie should be safe for consumers and may be a source of elements playing important functions in metabolic processes.



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Differential endozoochory of aquatic invertebrates by two duck species in shallow lakes

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Acta Oecologica, Volume 80
Author(s): Luis Valls, Andreu Castillo-Escrivà, Luis Barrera, Eulalia Gómez, José Antonio Gil-Delgado, Francesc Mesquita-Joanes, Xavier Armengol
Animal vectors are essential for the movement of invertebrate resting eggs between water bodies. However, differences in habitat preferences and feeding behaviour between bird species may result in variations in the dispersal of invertebrates via these birds, even if the different bird species live in the same lake. To test such effects, faecal samples from Anas platyrhynchos (collected in autumn and spring) and Tadorna tadorna (collected in spring) were cultured in water at 20° C and 12 L: 12 D conditions in order to quantify the resting eggs which could be internally transported by these birds. One half of each faecal sample was initially cultured at a conductivity of 0.6 mS cm⁻¹ and the other half at 6 mS cm⁻¹. 1054 invertebrates hatched from a total of 60 faecal samples, including cladocerans, copepods, ostracods, rotifers and ciliates, with a wide variability among faeces. Autumn yielded a low proportion of samples with hatchlings (12.5%) compared to spring (90%). Significant differences were observed between birds, but not between conductivity treatments. Thus, our results imply different hatching dynamics affected by disperser and season, but most species transported as resting eggs by birds seem to have a wide tolerance to hatch under variable salinity conditions. These differences may largery influence the metacommunity dynamics of lake networks, and could be a key factor to consider in wetland conservation planning.



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The effect of a change to healthy vending in a major Australian health service on sales of healthy and unhealthy food and beverages

Publication date: 1 July 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): Tara Boelsen-Robinson, Kathryn Backholer, Kirstan Corben, Miranda R. Blake, Claire Palermo, Anna Peeters




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Meet meat: An explorative study on meat and cultured meat as seen by Chinese, Ethiopians and Dutch

Publication date: 1 July 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): Gerben A. Bekker, Hilde Tobi, Arnout R.H. Fischer
In this cross-cultural study we investigated how study participants from China, Ethiopia and the Netherlands operationalize the concept of meat and to what extent cultured meat fits or does not fit into this operationalization. We argue that combining the conceptual approaches symbolic boundaries and theory of social practices helps to better understand the possibly culturally dependent operationalization of the concept meat. Ten visiting graduate students from China, 10 from Ethiopia and 10 native Dutch graduate students completed freelist tasks, a pile sort task, interview and essay task, during a single session. We found that butchered animals are at the center of the concept of meat, although depending on culture not all animals are a source of meat. Symbolic boundaries were restricted or stretched depending on social practices within countries. Ethiopian participants applied strictly defined symbolic boundaries, where Chinese and Dutch participants used more broadly defined symbolic boundaries. Cultured meat was seen as a technology for the future and was positioned across the symbolic boundaries of meat.



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Efficacy of periimplant mechanical curettage with and without adjunct antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in smokeless-tobacco product users

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Zeyad H. Al-Sowygh




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Long-term changes in optic coherence tomography in a child with laser pointer maculopathy: A case report and mini review

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Ning Zhao, Lei Liu
With the wide range of applications, laser pointer used as toys by children becoming a major public safety problem worldwide. Here we present a long term followup of a ten-year-old boy retina injured patient who suffered from green light laser pointer. Retina injured patients caused by green light laser pointer were traditionally treated by steroid. We only gave Lutein treatment prescription according to the wishes of the patient's parents. After an over 12 months followup, the patient's visual acuity and retinal recovery situation, the outcomes are similar as cases with steroid treatment. Primary school teacher and parents should pay more attention to children playing with laser pointer and prevent children to occur laser injury accident by school and family education.



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Editorial Board

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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Table of Contents

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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Editors' Selections From This Issue: Volume 98 / Number 4 / April 2017

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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Masthead

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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Correction

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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National Institutes of Health Research Plan on Rehabilitation

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): NIH Medical Rehabilitation Coordinating CommitteeAnnO'MaraPhD RN MPHJulia H.RowlandPhDThomas N.GreenwellPhDCheri L.WiggsPhDJeromeFlegMDLyndonJosephPhDJoanMcGowanPhDJames S.PanagisMD MPHCharlesWashabaughPhDGrace C.Y.PengPhDRosalinaBrayAlison N.CernichPhDTheresa H.CruzPhDSueMardenPhDMary EllenMichelPhDRalphNitkinPhDLouisQuatranoPhDCatherine Y.SpongMDLanaShekimPhDTeresa L.Z.JonesMDDeniseJuliano-BultMSWDavid M.PanchinsonPhDDaofenChenPhDLynJakemanPhDAnnKnebelPhD RN FAANLois A.TullyPhDLeightonChanMD MPHDianeDamianoPhD PTBiaoTianPhDPamelaMcInnesDDS MScPartapKhalsaDC PhDEveReiderPhDDavidShurtleffPhDWilliamElwoodPhDRachelBallardMD MPHAbby G.ErshowScD RD FAHALisaBeggDrPH RN
One in five Americans experiences disability that affects their daily function because of impairments in mobility, cognitive function, sensory impairment, or communication impairment. The need for rehabilitation strategies to optimize function and reduce disability is a clear priority for research to address this public health challenge. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently published a Research Plan on Rehabilitation that provides a set of priorities to guide the field over the next 5 years. The plan was developed with input from multiple Institutes and Centers within the NIH, the National Advisory Board for Medical Rehabilitation Research, and the public. This article provides an overview of the need for this research plan, an outline of its development, and a listing of six priority areas for research. The NIH is committed to working with all stakeholder communities engaged in rehabilitation research to track progress made on these priorities and to work to advance the science of medical rehabilitation.



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Tele-Assessment of the Berg Balance Scale

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): Kavita Venkataraman, Michelle Morgan, Kristopher A. Amis, Lawrence R. Landerman, Gerald C. Koh, Kevin Caves, Helen Hoenig
ObjectiveTo compare Berg Balance Scale (BBS) rating using videos with differing transmission characteristics with direct in-person rating.DesignRepeated-measures study for the assessment of the BBS in 8 configurations: in person, high-definition video with slow motion review, standard-definition videos with varying bandwidths and frame rates (768 kilobytes per second [kbps] videos at 8, 15, and 30 frames per second [fps], 30 fps videos at 128, 384, and 768 kbps).SettingMedical center.ParticipantsPatients with limitations (N=45) in ≥1 of 3 specific aspects of motor function: fine motor coordination, gross motor coordination, and gait and balance.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcomes MeasuresAbility to rate the BBS in person and using videos with differing bandwidths and frame rates in frontal and lateral views.ResultsCompared with in-person rating (7%), 18% (P=.29) of high-definition videos and 37% (P=.03) of standard-definition videos could not be rated. Interrater reliability for the high-definition videos was .96 (95% confidence interval, .94–.97). Rating failure proportions increased from 20% in videos with the highest bandwidth to 60% (P<.001) in videos with the lowest bandwidth, with no significant differences in proportions across frame rate categories. Both frontal and lateral views were critical for successful rating using videos, with 60% to 70% (P<.001) of videos unable to be rated on a single view.ConclusionsAlthough there is some loss of information when using videos to rate the BBS compared to in-person ratings, it is feasible to reliably rate the BBS remotely in standard clinical spaces. However, optimal video rating requires frontal and lateral views for each assessment, high-definition video with high bandwidth, and the ability to carry out slow motion review.



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Rehabilitation Research at the National Institutes of Health: Moving the Field Forward (Executive Summary)

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): Walter R. Frontera, Jonathan F. Bean, Diane Damiano, Linda Ehrlich-Jones, Melanie Fried-Oken, Alan Jette, Ranu Jung, Rick L. Lieber, James F. Malec, Michael J. Mueller, Kenneth J. Ottenbacher, Keith E. Tansey, Aiko Thompson




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Can Lowering the Guidance Force of Robot-Assisted Gait Training Induce a Sufficient Metabolic Demand in Subacute Dependent Ambulatory Patients With Stroke?

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): So Young Lee, Eun Young Han, Bo Ryun Kim, Min Ho Chun, Yong Ki Lee
ObjectiveTo assess the effects of guidance force (GF) and gait speed (GS) on cardiorespiratory responses and energy cost in subacute dependent ambulatory patients with stroke.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingUniversity rehabilitation hospital.ParticipantsPatients with subacute stroke (N=10; mean age, 64.50±19.20y) who were dependent ambulators (functional ambulation category ≤2).InterventionsPatients participated in cardiorespiratory tests during robot-assisted gait training. Subjects walked at a fixed percentage (50%) of body weight support and various percentages of GF (100%, 80%, and 60%) and GS (1.4 and 1.8km/h). The therapist encouraged patients to maximize their locomotor ability.Main Outcome MeasuresDuring the cardiorespiratory tests, oxygen consumption (V˙o2), heart rate, and respiratory exchange ratio were measured continuously to assess cardiometabolic demands.ResultsThere were no significant differences in cardiometabolic demands according to GS (1.4 vs 1.8km/h). There were no significant differences in cardiometabolic demands according to GF at a GS of 1.4km/h. However, lowering GF decreased V˙o2 when comparing GFs of 100% (6.89±2.38mL/kg/min), 80% (6.46±1.73mL/kg/min), and 60% (5.77±1.71mL/kg/min) at a GS of 1.8km/h (P=.03).ConclusionsLowering the GF of robot-assisted gait training at a higher GS cannot induce a sufficient cardiometabolic demand for subacute dependent ambulatory patients with stroke. This implies that it is important to take the patient's functional ability into consideration when choosing training protocols.



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Information/Education Pages (I/EPs)

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4





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Trend of Pediatric Rehabilitation Therapy Based on Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service Data

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): Leechan Jo




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Neuroticism and Fatigue 3 Months After Ischemic Stroke

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 98, Issue 4
Author(s): Chieh Grace Lau, Wai Kwong Tang, Xiang Xin Liu, Hua Jun Liang, Yan Liang, Vincent Mok, Adrian Wong, Gabor S. Ungvari, Mansur A. Kutlubaev, Ka Sing Wong
ObjectiveTo examine the relation between neuroticism and fatigue in Chinese patients with stroke.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingAcute stroke unit.ParticipantsSurvivors of ischemic stroke (N=191) recruited from the acute stroke unit between May 1, 2010, and September 1, 2011.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresThe personality trait of neuroticism was measured with the neuroticism subscale of the Chinese version of the NEO Five-Factor Inventory. The level of fatigue was measured with the Fatigue Assessment Scale. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, Barthel Index, and Mini-Mental State Examination were administered to obtain demographic and clinical information.ResultsFatigue severity 3 months after stroke positively correlated with Geriatric Depression Scale and NEO Five-Factor Inventory neuroticism scores and negatively correlated with the Barthel Index score.ConclusionsNeuroticism, independent of depressive symptoms, is a predictor of fatigue severity 3 months after stroke. Interventions such as psychological screening programs are warranted for early detection of patients at high risk of poststroke depression.



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Pathway of protection: Ethnic identity, self-esteem, and substance use among multiracial youth

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 72
Author(s): Sycarah Fisher, Tamika C.B. Zapolski, Chelsea Sheehan, Jessica Barnes-Najor
Fifty percent of adolescents have tried an illicit drug and 70% have tried alcohol by the end of high school, with even higher rates among multiracial youth. Ethnic identity is a protective factor against substance use for minority groups. However, little is known about the mechanisms that facilitate its protective effects, and even less is known about this relationship for multiracial youth. The purpose of the present study was to examine the protective effect of ethnic identity on substance use and to determine whether this relationship operated indirectly through self-esteem, a strong predictor of substance use for among adolescent populations. Participants included 468 multiracial youth in grades six through 12 (53% female). The results found that ethnic identity was indeed related to substance use, partially through changes in self-esteem. Findings from this study contribute to our understanding and development of models of risk and protection for an understudied population.



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Response to letter entitled: Distinct metastatic patterns in colorectal cancer patients

Publication date: May 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 77
Author(s): Julian Walter Holch, Volker Heinemann




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Exercise differentially affects metabolic functions and white adipose tissue in female letrozole- and dihydrotestosterone-induced mouse models of polycystic ovary syndrome

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Author(s): Rodrigo R. Marcondes, Manuel Maliqueo, Romina Fornes, Anna Benrick, Min Hu, Niklas Ivarsson, Mattias Carlström, Samuel W. Cushman, Karin G. Stenkula, Gustavo A.R. Maciel, Elisabet Stener-Victorin
Here we hypothesized that exercise in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or letrozole (LET)-induced polycystic ovary syndrome mouse models improves impaired insulin and glucose metabolism, adipose tissue morphology, and expression of genes related to adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, Notch pathway and browning in inguinal and mesenteric fat. DHT-exposed mice had increased body weight, increased number of large mesenteric adipocytes. LET-exposed mice displayed increased body weight and fat mass, decreased insulin sensitivity, increased frequency of small adipocytes and increased expression of genes related to lipolysis in mesenteric fat. In both models, exercise decreased fat mass and inguinal and mesenteric adipose tissue expression of Notch pathway genes, and restored altered mesenteric adipocytes morphology. In conclusion, exercise restored mesenteric adipocytes morphology in DHT- and LET-exposed mice, and insulin sensitivity and mesenteric expression of lipolysis-related genes in LET-exposed mice. Benefits could be explained by downregulation of Notch, and modulation of browning and lipolysis pathways in the adipose tissue.



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Influence of different forms and materials (zirconia or titanium) of abutments in periimplant soft-tissue healing using matrix metalloproteinase-8: A randomized pilot study

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
Author(s): Yogesh Kumar, Veena Jain, Shyam Singh Chauhan, Vinayak Bharate, Dheeraj Koli, Manish Kumar
Statement of problemIt is unclear how pathogenic bacteria adhere to different implant materials and whether biomarker matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) level provides a reliable method of evaluating the connective tissue status of periimplant tissues.PurposeThe purpose of this pilot clinical study was to evaluate periimplant connective tissue response by assessing the MMP-8 levels in periimplant crevicular fluid around titanium and zirconia abutments.Material and methodsThe study was designed as a prospective, within-subject comparison with left-right randomization low. Twelve participants with partial edentulism were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Periimplant sulcal fluid sampling and pocket probing depths were assessed at 1, 3, and 12 months after placing the abutments. The MMP-8 protein level of the periimplant sulcal fluid was determined by MMP-8-specific sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay system. The independent t test or Wilcoxon test was used to compare MMP-8 levels and probing depth assessment between the zirconia and titanium groups at different time points (1, 3, and 12 months). Repeated measures ANOVA was used for within-group comparison of the MMP-8 levels at 3 time points (α=.05).ResultsAt 1 and 3 months, the titanium abutments showed significantly higher MMP-8 levels and probing depths than the zirconia abutments (P<.05), but no significant differences were found at 12 months for either variable (P>.05).ConclusionsThis study suggests the presence of more remodeling and/or inflammatory phenomena around titanium implant abutments than around zirconia abutments of a different design during the early stages but not at 1 year.



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Influence of adhesive cementation systems on the bond strength of relined fiber posts to root dentin

Publication date: Available online 24 March 2017
Source:The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
Author(s): Raquel Viana Rodrigues, Camila Sobral Sampaio, Rafael Rocha Pacheco, Fernanda Miori Pascon, Regina Maria Puppin-Rontani, Marcelo Giannini
Statement of problemGlass fiber post cementation procedures have undergone significant development. Relining the post with composite resin is a technique that aims to reduce resin cement thickness and consequently problems inherent to polymerization. Evidence is sparse regarding the efficacy of bonding procedures at increasing depths (from cervical to apical) using different adhesive cementation techniques.PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the push-out bond strength (PBS) of composite resin relined glass fiber posts cemented to bovine root dentin using different adhesive cementation protocols.Material and methodsEighteen bovine teeth (n=6) were embedded in polystyrene resin blocks, and the crowns were sectioned leaving a root portion of 20 mm in length. Root canals were prepared using rotary instruments provided by the post manufacturer (Whitepost DC #1), resulting in a uniform root canal preparation. The root canals were lubricated with a water-soluble glycerin gel. Silane (Prosil) was applied and the posts relined with a microhybrid composite resin (Filtek Z100) to conform to the root canal anatomy. Three adhesive cementation protocols were evaluated: a 3-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system (Adper Scotchbond Multi Purpose) in combination with a dual polymerizing resin cement (RelyX ARC); a universal adhesive system (Scotchbond Universal) associated with a dual polymerizing resin cement (RelyX Ultimate); and a self-adhesive dual polymerizing resin cement (RelyX Unicem 2). The roots were sectioned, resulting in four 2-mm segments at 4 different depths (cervical to apical) and evaluated by the PBS test, using a universal testing machine (Instron 4411) at 0.5 mm/min, until failure. Interfaces were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and failures were classified as cohesive failure in composite resin, cohesive failure in cement, cohesive failure in root dentin, adhesive failure, or mixed. Data were analyzed by 2-way split-plot ANOVA and the Tukey post hoc test (α=.05).ResultsNo statistical differences were found for PBS when different cementation systems were compared (P=.253). Increased depths resulted in reduced PBS values for all cementation protocols evaluated (P<.001).ConclusionsRegardless the cementation system used, the lowest PBS values were at the apical region of resin relined glass fiber posts bonded to root dentin. Furthermore, the highest PBS is observed at the cervical portion of root dentin.



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