Anti-allergic effects of sesquiterpene lactones from Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. determined using in vivo and in vitro experiments

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Bo-Kyung Lee, Soo-Jin Park, So-Yeon Nam, Saeromi Kang, Jin Hwang, Seung-Jin Lee, Dong-Soon Im
Ethnopharmacological relevanceSaussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. root has been used in Asian traditional medicine for the treatment of asthma, rheumatism, and other conditions. S. costus extracts were shown to alleviate house dust mite-induced atopic-like dermatitis in Nc/Nga mice; besides, sesquiterpene lactones were isolated from S. costus extracts.Aims of the studyWe aimed to investigate the effects of sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, costunolide, and dehydrocostuslactone) in allergic asthma using female Balb/c mice and rat RBL-2H3 mast cells.Materials and methodsAntigen-induced degranulation was assessed by measuring β-hexosaminidase activity in vitro. In addition, a murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model was used to test the in vivo efficacy of sesquiterpene lactones.ResultsSesquiterpene lactones inhibited antigen-induced degranulation, wherein dehydrocostuslactone > costunolide > alantolactone in potency. Administration of sesquiterpene lactones decreased the number of immune cells, particularly eosinophils, and reduced the expression and secretion of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues of mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. Histological studies showed that sesquiterpene lactones reduced inflammation and mucin production in the lungs. Similar to the in vitro study, dehydrocostuslactone showed the highest potency, followed by costunolide and alantolactone.ConclusionThese findings provide evidence that sesquiterpene lactones might be potential anti-allergic therapeutics.

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Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Jun Huang, Yiwei Zhang, Lin Dong, Qinghan Gao, Lei Yin, Hongfeng Quan, Rong Chen, Xueyan Fu, Dingbo Lin
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCornus officinalis (Cornaceae), known in Chinese as "Shanzhuyu," is a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine. It tastes sour and is astringent and slightly warm in nature. Its fruits have long been used to treat kidney deficiency, high blood pressure, waist and knee pain, dizziness, tinnitus, impotence, spermatorrhea, menorrhagia, and other diseases in China. The main distribution areas are Shanxi and Gansu.Aim of the studyThis review focused on the ethnopharmacological uses of the herb. We also focus on the phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological studies on C. officinalis. The recent analytical methods developed for the quality control of the herb's constituents are also reviewed. Additionally, future trends and prospects in the study of this herb are proposed.Materials and methodsInformation on C. officinalis was gathered by searching the internet (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, ACS, CNKI, Scifinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Baidu Scholar) and libraries.ResultsThis review compiled the ethnopharmacological uses, including the classic prescriptions and historical applications. Approximately 300 chemical compounds have been isolated and identified from C. officinalis. The major active components of the plant are organic acids and iridoids, among which morroniside and loganin have been extensively investigated. The fruit of the plant has been used in treating many diseases in traditional medicine. Scientific studies indicated the herb's wide range of pharmacological activities, such as hepatic and renal protection, antidiabetes activity, cardioprotection, antioxidation, neuroprotection, antitumor activity, anti-inflammation, analgesic effects, antiaging activity, antiamnesia, antiosteoporosis, and immunoregulation. The analytical methods developed for the quantitative and qualitative determination of various compounds in the herb were further reviewed.ConclusionsIn this paper, we reviewed various studies conducted on C. officinalis, especially in areas of its ethnopharmacological use, as well as on its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern analytical methods used. Some of the herb's ethnomedical indications have been confirmed by the herb's pharmacological effects, such as its hepatic and renal protection and the antidiabetic effects. In particular, the crude extract and its chemical composition have exerted good therapeutic effect in diabetic treatment. C. officinalis entails additional attention on its pharmacological effects and drug development to expand its effective use clinically. Many advanced technologies are used for quality testing, but the detection component is exceedingly scarce for synthetically evaluating the quality of C. officinalis herbs. Thus, further research is necessary to investigate the quality control and toxicology of the plant, to further elucidate its clinical use, and to control herbal quality.



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The beneficial health aspects of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A.Nelson) oil

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Beata Olas
Ethnopharmacological contextPlant oils are known to have biological activity. This review paper summarizes the current knowledge of the composition of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A.Nelson) seed and pulp oil and its beneficial health aspects.Materials and methodsIn vitro and in vivo studies on humans and animals have found sea buckthorn oil to have a variety of beneficial properties to human health, and indicate that it may be a valuable component of human and animal nutrition. Various bioactive substances are present in all parts of sea buckthorn, and these are used traditionally as raw material for health foods and as nutritional supplements. The oil, berries, leaves and bark have medicinal properties, and the fruits have a unique taste; these parts can be processed to make oil, juice, jam, jellies and candies, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.ResultsSea buckthorn oil may be extracted from the seed or the pulp. The mature seeds contain 8–20% oil and the dried fruit pulp about 20–25%, while the fruit residue contains about 15–20% oil after juice extraction. These oils have high concentrations of lipophilic constituents, most commonly unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), phytosterols and vitamins A and E. These components have a multifunctional effect on human health, with the fatty acids playing an important function in modifying cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disorders. The oil also has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-depressive properties.ConclusionSea buckthorn is a unique plant. Its beneficial properties against cardiovascular disorders have been attributed to its high UFA content and range of phytosterols, especially beta-sitosterol. However, its different action on the human organism remain unclear, and further well-controlled, high-quality experiments with human subjects are required to determine the prophylactic and therapeutic doses of sea buckthorn oil for use in clinical studies. Additional studies are also needed to understand the action by which the oil exerts its beneficial properties, i.e. its cardioprotective and anti-cancer activity.

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Morinda officinalis How. – A comprehensive review of traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Jian-hua Zhang, Hai-liang Xin, Yue-ming Xu, Yi Shen, Yu-Qiong He, Hsien-Yeh, Bing Lin, Hong-tao Song, Juan-Liu, Hai-yue Yang, Lu-ping Qin, Qiao-yan Zhang, Juan Du
Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe medicinal plant Morinda officinalisHow. (MO) and its root have long been used in traditional medicines in China and northeast Asia as tonics for nourishing the kidney, strengthening the bone and enhancing immunofunction in the treatment of impotence, osteoporosis, depression and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and dermatitis.Aim of the reviewThis review aims to sum up updated and comprehensive information about traditional usage, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of MO and provide insights into potential opportunities for future research and development of this plant.MethodsA bibliographic investigation was performed by analyzing the information available on MO in the internationally accepted scientific databases including Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Yahoo, Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations in Chinese. Information was also obtained from some local and foreign books on ethnobotany and ethnomedicines.ResultsThe literature supported the ethnomedicinal uses of MO as recorded in China for various purposes. The ethnomedical uses of MO have been recorded in many regions of China. More than 100 chemical compounds have been isolated from this plant, and the major constituents have been found to be polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, anthraquinones and iridoid glycosides. Crude extracts and pure compounds of this plant are used as effective agents in the treatment of depression, osteoporosis, fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis, and infertility due to their anti-depressant, anti-osteoporosis, pro-fertility, anti-radiation, anti-Alzheimer disease, anti-rheumatoid, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, cardiovascularprotective, anti-oxidation, immune-regulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities. Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated that the main components of MO including monotropein and deacetyl asperulosidic acid are distributed in various organs and tissues. The investigation on acute toxicity and genotoxicity indicated that MO is nontoxic. There have no reports on significant adverse effect at a normal dose in clinical application, but MO at dose of more than 1000mg/kg may cause irritability, insomnia and unpleasant sensations in individual cases.ConclusionMO has emerged as a good source of traditional medicines. Some uses of this plant in traditional medicines have been validated by pharmacological investigations. However, the molecular mechanism, structure-activity relationship, and potential synergistic and antagonistic effects of its multi-components such as polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, anthraquinones and iridoid glycosides need to be further elucidated, and the structural feature of polysaccharides also need to be further clarified. Sophisticated analytical technologies should be developed to comprehensively evaluate the quality of MO based on HPLC-fingerprint and content determination of the active constituents, knowing that these investigations will help further utilize this plant.

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Isolation and pharmacological characterization of a new cytotoxic L-amino acid oxidase from Bungarus multicinctus snake venom

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Wuguang Lu, Lingling Hu, Jie Yang, Xiaoyan Sun, Huaijiang Yan, Jinman Liu, Jiao Chen, Xiaolan Cheng, Qian Zhou, Ye Yu, Ji-Fu Wei, Peng Cao
Ethnopharmacological relevanceBungarus multicinctus snake belongs to Elapidae family and is widely distributed in southern China. It is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine with the effect of dispelling wind and removing obstruction in the meridians. Moreover, it is also as a chief ingredient of many polyherbal formulations for the treatment of cancer.Aim of the studyTo evaluate the antitumor activity of Bungarus multicinctus snake venom components and isolate, characterize the most effective anti-tumor component of Bungarus multicinctus snake venom.Materials and methodsThe in vitro antitumor activity of Bungarus multicinctus venom components was detected by cytotoxicity assay and cell apoptosis assay. A unique LAAO from Bungarus multicinctus venom named as BM-Apotxin was isolated and characterized by Sephadex G-75 gel filtration, Sephadex G-25 desalting, Q ion-exchange chromatography and subsequent amino acids sequence determination. The LAAO activity and enzyme kinetics of BM-Apotxin was detected by microplate assay.ResultsBM-Apotxin, a 65KDa glycoprotein, which contributed to the most anti-tumor effects of Bungarus multicinctus venom. BM-Apotxin can selectively kill tumor cells, with less cytotoxicity to the normal cells. BM-Apotxin is an L-amino acid oxidase (LAAO) with high sequence identity to other snake venom LAAOs. Its anti-tumor activity is mainly due to the hydrogen peroxide produced from LAAO oxidation. But the catalase did not reverse its anti-tumor effect completely. Like other snake venom LAAOs, BM-Apotxin can oxidize many L amino acids, not D amino acids. The optimum substrate for BM-Apotxin is L-Phe. Moreover, BM-Apotxin deglycosylation can significantly reduce the LAAO activity and anti-tumor activity of BM-Apotxin.ConclusionThis study will facilitate the study on anti-tumor mechanism of snake venom and drug development based on Bungarus multicinctus venom.

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Ethnoveterinary botanical survey of medicinal plants in Abergelle, Sekota and Lalibela districts of Amhara region, Northern Ethiopia

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Ayalew Assefa, Adane Bahiru
Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe study area is known by its huge livestock resources with extensive ethnoveterinary practice. This knowledge was not documented scientifically until we proposed to do so. The study can aid in future planning of endangered species conservation as well as for experimental studies in search of modern pharmacotherapy.Aim of the studyThe study objective was to understand the extent of ethnoveterinary practice, methods, types of medicinal plant species used and to generate a comprehensive baseline data that can be used as a basis for further studies.Materials and methodsThe survey was conducted from November 2015 to December 2016 in different seasons of the year. Participant selection process was started by recording all the known animal healers by assigning village leaders, animal health professionals, and research field assistants to record all animal healers of the area. Assigned personals communicate elders, and other members of the communities of the 3 districts to recommend the traditional animal healer they know. Accordingly, 60 participants were recommended by the peoples of the 3 districts and the interview process was conducted with a semi-structured questionnaire to record the knowledge of ethnoveterinary practice of the 60 healers. After finishing the interview process, researchers had a walk in the woods, mountains, and rivers with informants to collect medicinal plants. Standard procedures were followed for the record of plant materials, drying, and pressing of plant specimens was performed in the field followed by labeling with the local name, collection date, collection site, and identification code.ResultsA total of 53 medicinal plants that belong to 31 families used in treating 22 kinds of livestock diseases were identified.ConclusionWe found the area has a huge resource of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants. However, overuse and environmental anthropological change resulted in the scarcity of medicinal plants. This condition was complained by healers during the survey.

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Characteristics of Chinese herbal medicine usage and its effect on survival of lung cancer patients in Taiwan

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Te-Mao Li, Yang-Hao Yu, Fuu-Jen Tsai, Chi-Fung Cheng, Yang-Chang Wu, Tsung-Jung Ho, Xiang Liu, Hsinyi Tsang, Ting-Hsu Lin, Chiu-Chu Liao, Shao-Mei Huang, Ju-Pi Li, Jung-Chun Lin, Chih-Chien Lin, Wen-Miin Liang, Ying-Ju Lin
Ethnopharmacological relevanceIn Taiwan, lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers. Survival of lung cancer patients remains low, ranging from 6% to 18%. Studies have shown that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) can be used to induce cell apoptosis and exhibit anti-inflammatoryanti-inflammatory activities in cancer cells.Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the frequencies and patterns of CHM treatment for lung cancer patients and the effect of CHM on their survival probability in Taiwan.Materials and methodsWe identified 6939 lung cancer patients (ICD-9-CM: 162). We allocated 264 CHM users and 528 CHM-non users, matched for age, gender, duration, and regular treatment. Chi-square test, conditional multivariable logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier method, and the log-rank test were used in this study.ResultsThe CHM group was characterized by a longer follow up time and more cases of hyperlipidemia and liver cirrhosis. This group exhibited a lower mortality hazard ratio (0.48, 95% confidence interval [0.39–0.61], p < 0.001), after adjusting for comorbidities. The trend was also observed that the cumulative survival probability was higher in CHM than in non-CHM users (p < 0.0001, log rank test). Analysis of their CHM prescription pattern revealed that Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi-Tang (BZYQT), Xiang-Sha-Liu-Jun-Zi-Tang (XSLJZT), and Bai-He-Gu-Jin-Tang (BHGJT); and Bei-Mu (BM), Xing-Ren (XR) and Ge-Gen (GG) were found to be the top three formulas and herbs, respectively. Among them, BM was the core CHM of the major cluster, and Jie-Geng (JG) and Mai-Men-Dong-Tang (MMDT) were important CHMs by CHM network analysis.ConclusionThe use of CHM as an adjunctive therapy may reduce the mortality hazard ratio of lung cancer patients. The investigation of their comprehensive CHM prescription patterns might be useful in future large-scale, randomized clinical investigations of agent effectiveness, safety, and potential interactions with conventional treatments for lung cancer patients.

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Leon, Christine, Yu-Lin, Lin, Chinese Medicinal Plants, Herbal Drugs and Substitutes, An Identification Guide. Kew Publishing, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, London, UK. (pp 806, over 3000 colour photographs, 300mm × 250mm. ISBN: 978 1 84246 387 1, e-ISBN: 978 1 84246 630 8 (Hardback) - £110.00.).

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Anthony Booker




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Can highly cited herbs in ancient Traditional Chinese medicine formulas and modern publications predict therapeutic targets for diabetes mellitus?

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Huijun Wang, Songshan Shi, Shunchun Wang
Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe prevalence of diabetes among all age groups worldwide was estimated to be more than 382 million in 2013. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years, and substantial valuable experience and prescriptions have been accumulated in the TCM system for the treatment of diabetes. In recent decades, a large amount of experimental and clinical data has been published on the use of herbal medicines related to these ancient TCM prescriptions.Aim of the studyThis study aimed to discover a method for the investigation of potential antidiabetic herbs from the large amount of data in ancient TCM formulas and modern publications and to verify this method through an in vitro bioactivity study.Materials and methodsIn our review, the most frequently cited TCM herbs were selected as potential antidiabetic herb candidates on the basis of TCM philosophical theory (ancient TCM formulas) and Western medicine philosophical theory (modern publications). The ethanol and aqueous extracts of the selected herbs were screened for their α-glucosidase inhibitory, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), and intestinal glucose transport inhibitory effects.ResultsTwelve herbs [Terminalia chebula Retz., fructus immaturus, dried; Poria cocos (Schw) Wolf., sclerotium, dried; Zea mays L., stigma, dried; Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi, radix, dried; Cucurbita moschata (Duch. ex Lam.) Duch. ex Poiret, fructus, dried; Lycium barbarum L., fructus, dried; Glycine max (L.) Merr., semen, fermented; Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., radix and rhizoma, dried; Dioscorea opposita Thunb., rhizoma, dried; Morus alba L., folium, dried, Morus alba L., fructus, dried; and Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce, rhizoma, dried] were finally selected as candidates with potential glucose-lowering effects after a review was performed of herbs that are frequently cited in ancient TCM formulas and modern publications. The bioactive study results demonstrated that both the ethanol extracts and crude polysaccharides of M. alba L., fructus, dried, and M. alba L., folium, dried, and the crude polysaccharides of T. chebula Retz., fructus immaturus, dried, exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory effects. Moreover, the crude polysaccharides of P. cocos (Schw) Wolf., sclerotium, dried; Z. mays L., stigma, dried; and T. chebula Retz., fructus immaturus, dried, exhibited favorable GSIS effects, and the ethanol extracts of P. odoratum (Mill.) Druce, rhizoma, dried; T. chebula Retz., fructus immaturus, dried; and G. uralensis Fisch., radix and rhizoma, dried, significantly decreased glucose transport across the cell monolayer.ConclusionsOur review and the preliminary bioactive study revealed that 10 of the 12 recommended edible TCM herbs had favorable antidiabetic effects, demonstrating that TCM herbs with a high prescription and publication frequency may provide insights into the potential therapeutic targets of diabetes mellitus and may aid in the discovery of effective compounds complementary to currently used medicines. Such a literature and medicine review is a useful method of exploring potential antidiabetic herbs by using the wealth of information in ancient TCM formulas and modern publications.

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Treatment of malaria and related symptoms using traditional herbal medicine in Ethiopia

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Sultan Suleman, Takele Beyene Tufa, Dereje Kebebe, Sileshi Belew, Yimer Mekonnen, Fanta Gashe, Seid Mussa, Evelien Wynendaele, Luc Duchateau, Bart De Spiegeleer
Ethnopharmacological relevanceMedicinal plants have always been an integral part of different cultures in Ethiopia in the treatment of different illnesses including malaria and related symptoms. However, due to lack of proper documentation, urbanization, drought, acculturation and deforestation, there is an increased risk of losing this traditional knowledge. Hence, the use of the indigenous knowledge should be well documented and validated for potential future use.Aim of the studyTo gather and document information on medicinal plants which are used in the traditional treatment of malaria and related symptoms in Ethiopia.Materials and methodsFirst, an ethnomedicinal survey of plants was conducted in 17 districts of Jimma zone, the Oromia national regional state of Ethiopia. Jimma zone is malarious and rich in natural flora. A total of 115 traditional healers were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire containing personal data of the respondents, and information on medicinal plants used to treat malaria and related symptoms. In addition, a literature search using Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and HINARI was conducted on the indigenous use, in-vitro/in-vivo anti-malarial activity reports, and the chemical characterization of medicinal plants of Ethiopia used against malaria.ResultsFrom ethnomedicinal survey, a total of 28 species of plants used in the traditional treatment of malaria and related symptoms in Jimma Zone were collected, identified and documented. In addition, the literature search revealed that 124 medicinal plant species were reported to be traditionally used in the treatment of malaria in Ethiopia. From both ethnomedicinal survey and the literature search, Asteraceae and Fabaceae were the most represented families and Allium sativum L., Carica papaya L., Vernonia amygdalina Del., Lepidium sativum L. and Croton macrostachyus Del. were the most frequently reported plant species for their anti-malarial use. The dominant plant parts used in the preparation of remedies were leaves. About 54% of the medicinal plants documented in the survey have been reported as an anti-malarial plant in the literature search. Furthermore, the in-vitro and in-vivo anti-plasmodial activity reports of extracts from some of plant species were found to support the traditional claim of the documented plants. Moreover, literatures indicate that several secondary metabolites isolated from certain plant species that are traditionally used for the treatment of malaria and related symptoms in Ethiopia demonstrate strong anti-plasmodial activity.ConclusionsThe result of the current study showed that traditional knowledge is still playing an important role in the management of malaria and related symptoms in Ethiopia. Allium sativum L., Carica papaya L., Vernonia amygdalina Del., and Lepidium sativum L. are the most commonly reported species as anti-malarial plants and the traditional claim of some species was supported by known anti-plasmodial activity and bioactivity reports. The finding of this study is important in the rational prioritization of plant species which are potentially used for investigating new compounds, which could be efficacious for malaria treatment.
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MicroRNA profiling in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell exposed to the Phaleria macrocarpa (Boerl.) fruit ethyl acetate fraction (PMEAF) through IIlumina Hi-Seq technologies and various in silico bioinformatics tools

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Nowroji Kavitha, Soundararajan Vijayarathna, Shanmugapriya, Chern Ein Oon, Yeng Chen, Jagat R. Kanwar, Vasu Punj, Sreenivasan Sasidharan
Ethnopharmacological relevancePhaleria macrocarpa (Scheff) Boerl, is a famous traditional medicinal plant which exhibited cytotoxicity against various cancerous cells. Traditionally, P. macrocarpa has been used to control cancer, impotency, hemorrhoids, diabetes mellitus, allergies, liver and heart disease, kidney disorders, blood diseases, acne, stroke, migraine, and various skin diseases.Aim of the studyRecent studies have demonstrated a potent anticancer potential of P. macrocarpa, especially against HeLa cell. The objective of this study was to investigate the regulation of miRNAs on MDA-MB-231 treated with P. macrocarpa ethyl acetate fraction (PMEAF).Materials and methodsThe regulation of miRNAs on MDA-MB-231 cells treated with PMEAF was studied through IIlumina, Hi-Seq. 2000 platform of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and various in silico bioinformatics tools.ResultsThe PMEAF treatment against MDA-MB-231 cells identified 10 upregulated and 10 downregulated miRNAs. A set of 606 target genes of 10 upregulated miRNAs and 517 target genes of 10 downregulated miRNAs were predicted based on computational and validated databases by using miRGate DB Query. Meanwhile, results from DAVID Bioinformatics Resources 6.8 specified the functional annotation of the upregulated miRNAs involvement in cancer pathway by suppressing the oncogenes and downregulating miRNAs by expressing the tumour suppressor genes in the regulation of apoptosis pathway.ConclusionIn conclusion, the results of this study proved that PMEAF is a promising anticancer agent with high cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and it induced apoptotic cell death mechanism through the regulation of miRNAs. PMEAF might be the best candidate for developing more potent anticancer drugs or chemo preventive supplements.

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Population change of Trillium govanianum (Melanthiaceae) amid altered indigenous harvesting practices in the Indian Himalayas

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Harsh K. Chauhan, Anil K. Bisht, Indra D. Bhatt, Arvind Bhatt, David Gallacher, Andrea Santo
Ethnobotanical relevanceTrillium govanianum Wall. ex D. Don (Melanthiaceae) is valued as a traditional medicinal herb in the Himalayan region. Applications include treatment of cancer, hypertension, neurasthenia, giddiness, arthritis, dysentery, inflammation, sepsis and reproductive disorders. Its range is highly specific, and limited to cold, shaded and moist habitats at 2400-3500 m a.s.l. Rhizomes are gathered from wild populations for trade, and this has recently emerged as a significant source of income among indigenous people of the Indian Himalayan region.AimTo assess the impact of changing rhizome prices on T. govanianum in the Indian Himalayan region by observing the status of existing populations and assessing the typical methods used for gathering and trade of rhizomes.Material and methodsEcological attributes were assessed in 17 sites from Tirthan Valley (Himachal Pradesh), Munsiyari and Tunghnath (Uttarakhand). Socio-economic attributes assessed through communal focus groups and interviews with 579 medicinal plants gatherers and 19 traders, using semi-structured open ended questionnaires.ResultsPopulation decline was highest in Munsiyari, followed by Tirthan Valley and Tunghnath, indicating that the species may become locally extinct in some areas. Methods used for gathering did not consider regeneration.ConclusionGathering of T. govanianum from wild populations is unselective and unmanaged, raising the potential threat of local extinctions. Sustainable utilization and effective conservation is needed to protect the species and maintain community incomes. A status of 'threatened' is justified for the species in the Indian Himalayan region, due to its slow life cycle, specific habitat requirement, low population density, and commercial value.

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Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activity of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Filipendula vulgaris Moench

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Stevan Samardžić, Jelena Arsenijević, Dragana Božić, Marina Milenković, Vele Tešević, Zoran Maksimović
Ethnopharmacological relevanceMeadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim.) and dropwort (Filipendula vulgaris Moench) are herbaceous perennials employed in folk medicine for their antirheumatic, antipyretic and anti-ulcer properties.Aim of the studyTo assess ethnomedicinal claims through investigation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects of F. ulmaria and F. vulgaris lyophilized flower infusions (LFIs) as well as the F. vulgaris isolated flavonoids spiraeoside, kaempferol 4′-O-glucoside, astragalin 2′-O-gallate, mixture of hyperoside 2′-O-gallate and isoquercitrin 2′-O-gallate, and a tannin tellimagrandin II.Materials and methodsFree radical scavenging activity of the tested samples was determined by examining their ability to neutralize DPPH and OH radicals in vitro, whereas reducing properties were assessed in Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied ex vivo in human platelets by monitoring the effect on eicosanoid biosynthesis. Gastroprotective action was estimated in animal model of acute gastric injury induced by ethanol.ResultsLFIs and spiraeoside exerted activities comparable to those of positive control in DPPH-radical scavenging and FRAP antioxidant assays, whereas notable hydroxyl radical scavenging ability was demonstrated only for spiraeoside (IC50 = 5.1μg/mL). Among tested samples, astragalin 2″-O-gallate (IC50 = 141.1μg/mL) and spiraeoside (IC50 = 4.69μg/mL) the most markedly inhibited production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 and 12(S)-hydroxy-(5Z,8Z,10E,14Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid in human platelets, respectively. Examination of LFIs (100–300mg/kg, p.o.) gastroprotective action in rats revealed their capacity to preserve mucosal integrity. In addition, spiraeoside (50mg/kg, p.o.) and tellimagrandin II (40mg/kg, p.o.) showed ulcer preventive ability.ConclusionCurrent study supports documented traditional use of investigated herbs and indicates that flavonoid and tannin components are partially responsible for the demonstrated pharmacological activities.

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An herbal formula consisting of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill, Lycium chinense Mill and Eucommia ulmoides Oliv alleviates disuse muscle atrophy in rats

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Seongguk Cho, Riwon Hong, Poorm Yim, Mijung Yeom, Bombi Lee, Woong Mo Yang, Jongki Hong, Hyang Sook Lee, Dae–Hyun Hahm
Ethnopharmacological relevanceSchisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill (SC), Lycium chinense Mill (LC) and Eucommia ulmoides Oliv (EU) are representative tonic herbal medicines that help to strengthen body muscles and bones making them stronger according to the Donguibogam, a tradition medical book of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea.Aim of the studyTo evaluate effects of an herbal formula consisting of SC, LC and EU on muscle atrophy in C2C12 myotubes and in a rat model of immobilization-induced muscle atrophy.Materials and methodsMuscle atrophy was developed by cast immobilization of unilateral hindlimb on rats for 3 weeks. Treatments were administered orally 14 times over 3 weeks. After treatments, we compared the change of body weight, muscle weight, grip strength, muscle fiber size, muscle fiber type shift by Grip strength meter, H&E stain and ATPase stain. And western blot was used for evaluating molecular mechanism in muscle atrophy on C2C12 cells.ResultsWhen taken individually, SC was the most effective of the three in inhibiting tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-induced degeneration of C2C12 myogenesis. The formulation with a mass ratio of 2:1:1 SC: LC: EU (SSLE) was more effective against TNF-α-induced muscle atrophy than was a 1:1:1 SC: LC: EU (SLE) formula or any of the single herbal extracts. In a rat model of disuse muscle atrophy, the SSLE formula significantly inhibited reductions in muscle weight, grip strength and muscle fiber size induced by hindlimb immobilization, in a dose-dependent manner. The formula also inhibited immobilization-induced shifting of the muscle fiber type in soleus muscle. Treatment with SSLE inhibited TNF-α-induced expression of the atrogenes atrogin-1 and muscle RING-finger protein 1 in C2C12 cells. The SSLE formula also increased myoblast differentiation markers (myoD and myogenin) and activation of the Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway.ConclusionThese findings suggest that the SSLE formula prevents muscle atrophy through inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system as well as upregulation of myoblast differentiation and muscle protein synthesis in C2C12 cells. Taken together, we conclude that the SSLE formula is invaluable for the development of therapeutic medicines to prevent disuse muscle atrophy and its accompanying muscle weakness.

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Dual mechanisms of anti-muscarinic and Ca++ antagonistic activities to validate the folkloric uses of Cyperus niveus Retz. as antispasmodic and antidiarrheal

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Ambreen Aleem, Khalid Hussain Janbaz
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCyperus species are famous for their traditional uses and very commonly used for their anti-spasmodic and anti-diarrheal activities. Cyperus niveus Retz. is used in local traditional system of medicine in Pakistan to treat diarrhea and emesis.Aim of the studyThe aim of the study was to validate the traditional uses and to provide the possible mechanisms for the medicinal use of Cyperus niveus Retz. as anti-spasmodic, anti-diarrheal and anti emetic.Materials and methodsThe in-vivo studies of anti-diarrheal, charcoal meal GI transit test and anti-emetic activities were conducted in rats, mice and chicks respectively, while isolated tissues of rabbit's jejunum and rat's ileum were used for in-vitro experiments. Phytochemical analysis was also undertaken.ResultsThe phytochemical study of hydro-ethanolic extract of Cyperus niveus Retz. showed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and glycosides. Cn. Cr caused significant inhibition of castor oil-induced diarrhea in rats (300,500 & 700mg/kg) using loperamide (10mg/kg, p.o) as standard. Cn. Cr also significantly decreased the motility in charcoal meal GI transit test at 100–200mg/kg in mice, using atropine (3.0mg/kg) as positive control. In jejunum tissue, Cn. Cr relaxed carbachol(1µM) and K⁺(80mM)-induced contractions, similar to the effect of dicyclomine. Pre-incubation of isolated rat ileum tissues with Cn. Cr (0.1mg/mL) caused the corresponding shift of CCh concentration response curve (CRC) to right without decrease in max. response whereas at the concentration of 0.3mg/mL caused the rightward nonparallel shift with max. response suppression, similar to dicyclomine. Antimuscarinic effect was further confirmed when prior administration of Cn. Cr (0.1, 0.3 and 1mg/mL) caused concentration dependent inhibition of induced contractions of carbachol, comparable to atropine (1µM). To confirm the Ca²⁺ channel blocking (CCB), the rabbit jejunum was pre-incubated with Cn. Cr (0.3 & 1.0mg/mL), produced a shift in CRCs of calcium toward right with decrease in the maximum response at next concentration, similar to that of dicyclomine. The organic fraction of Cyperus niveus Retz. (Cn. Dcm) showed Ca²⁺ antagonist and anticholinergic activities with higher potency against K⁺(80mM) induced contractions, like verapamil, while aqueous fraction (Cn. Aq) relaxed only carbachol(1µM) induced contractions with no prominent effect on K⁺ (80mM)-contractions even at the higher concentration of 10mg/mL, similar to atropine. Cn. Cr also showed significant anti-emetic effect in Chick emesis model using chlorpromazine as standard.ConclusionThis study shows the presence of antidiarrheal and spasmolytic activities in Cyperus niveus Retz. extract, mediated by dual blocking mechanisms of muscarinic receptors and Ca²⁺ channels. The results further indicate the presence of anti-emetic activity in Cn. Cr, which may be because of its anti-muscarinic potential. This study provides the scientific bases to the traditional use of Cn. Cr in diarrhea and emesis.

Graphical abstract

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Assessment of the anti-snakebite properties of extracts of Aniba fragrans Ducke (Lauraceae) used in folk medicine as complementary treatment in cases of envenomation by Bothrops atrox

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Valéria Mourão de Moura, Noranathan da Costa Guimarães, Luana Travassos Batista, Luciana A. Freitas-de-Sousa, Joanderson de Sousa Martins, Maria Carolina Scheffer de Souza, Patrícia D. Oliveira de Almeida, Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro, Ricardo Bezerra de Oliveira, Maria Cristina Dos-Santos, Rosa Helena Veras Mourão
Ethnopharmacological relevanceExtracts of leaves and bark of Aniba fragrans are used as tea (decoction) to treat snakebites in communities in the Brazilian Amazon. The aqueous extract of the leaves of A. fragrans has been proven to be effective against Bothrops venom, but only when pre-incubated with the venom. This study sought to assess the potential of different types of extract of this species to inhibit the biological activities of Bothrops atrox venom (BaV) when used the same way as in folk medicine. The main classes of secondary metabolites and the concentrations of phenolics in the extracts were also determined.Materials and methodsFour types of extract of A. fragrans were prepared: aqueous extract of the leaf (AEL), aqueous extract of the bark (AEB), hydroalcoholic leaf extract (HLE) and extract of the residue from hydrodistillation of the leaf (ERHL). The phytochemical profiles of the aqueous extracts were determined using thin layer chromatography (TLC), and the concentrations of phenolics were measured by colorimetric assays. To investigate the potential of the extracts to inhibit the biological activities of BaV, in vitro tests for antiphospholipase and antifibrinolytic activities were performed. In vivo tests for antihemorrhagic and antidefibrinating activities were also carried out, as well as antimicrobial tests for activity against the main bacteria found in the oral cavity of snakes. Interaction between the extracts and the proteins in BaV was assessed by electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot (WB). The cytotoxicity of the extracts was assessed in a strain of MRC-5 human fibroblasts.ResultsTerpenoids, flavonoids and condensed and hydrolysable tannins were detected in all the extracts. Metabolites such as coumarins, fatty acids and alkaloids were present in some extracts but not in others, indicating different phytochemical profiles. Phenolics content varied between extracts, and there were more tannins in AEB and HLE. In the in vitro tests, the extracts inhibited the phospholipase and fibrinolytic activities of BaV in the two ratios of venom to extract used. HLE exhibited effective antimicrobial action as it inhibited growth of 11 of the 15 bacteria investigated, including Morganella morganii, the main bacteria described in the oral cavity of snakes. The extracts failed to inhibit the defibrinating activity of BaV, and only the Bothrops antivenom had a significant effect (96.1%) on this activity. BaV-induced hemorrhage was completely inhibited by AEL and AEB when the pre-incubation (venom:extract) protocol was used. When administered orally, as in folk medicine, both AEB and AEL produced significant inhibition of hemorrhagic activity (maximum inhibition 46.5% and 39.2%, respectively). SDS-PAGE and WB of the extracts pre-incubated with BaV showed that the main proteins in the venom had been precipitated by the extracts. None of the four extracts showed cytotoxic effects in the tests carried out with a human fibroblast cell line.ConclusionIn addition to being effective in reducing hemorrhage when administered orally, the extracts displayed a high antimicrobial potential against microorganisms involved in secondary infections at the site of the snakebite. Once the extracts have been tested in accordance with the appropriate regulations, this species could potentially be used to produce a phytomedicine for complementary treatment of the secondary infections due to bacteria that aggravate the local signs and symptoms after snakebite envenomation.

Graphical abstract

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Eucalyptus robusta leaves methanolic extract suppresses inflammatory mediators by specifically targeting TLR4/TLR9, MPO, COX2, iNOS and inflammatory cytokines in experimentally-induced endometritis in rats

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Aastha Tiwari, Preeti Singh, Pooja Jaitley, Sushant Sharma, Atul Prakash, Rajesh Mandil, Soumen Choudhury, Neeraj Kumar Gangwar, Satish K. Garg
Ethnopharmacological relevanceBacterial endometritis is one of the major causes of reproductive disorders including infertility in farm animals. Antibiotics are generally used for treatment of such disorders but now a days residues of antibiotics are of great public health concern, therefore, phytoremediation is being considered as an alternative to use of antibiotics.Aim of the studyPresent study was undertaken to investigate the efficacy of Eucalyptus robusta leaves methanolic extract against endometritis along with the possible mechanism of action especially targeting inflammatory biomarkers.Materials and methodsBacterial endometritis was produced using clinical isolates of E. coli and Staphyloccocus aureus from bovines (cows and buffaloes) endometritis cases. After seven days of inoculation of the mixed bacterial culture, endometritis was confirmed based on the presence of visible pus and edema, thinning of endometrial lining and presence of large number of polymorphonuclear cells and bacterial load in uterine flushing. Female Wistar rats were divided in to five groups namely control, sham-operated, endometritis, endometritis plus Eucalyptus leaves extract and endometritis plus cefixime. Serum specific inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-1β, interleukin-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, serum amyloid A) and myleoperoxidase, toll like receptors-4 and -9, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 were estimated in uterine tissues using ELISA kits.ResultsInterleukin-10, serum amyloid A, myleoperoxidase, toll like receptors-4 and-9, cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase and nitric oxide were significantly increased while non significant increase in interleukin-1β, cycloxygenase-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 were observed but level of tumor necrosis factor-α was found decreased in rats of endometritis group. Histopathological lesions in uterus showed efficient induction of endometritis by presence of inflammatory cells which are lessened effectively after treatment with Eucalyptus leaves extract. Eucalyptus robusta leaves extract produced curative and protective effect against endometritis and results were comparable to or even better than cefixime.ConclusionsEucalyptus robusta leaves extract possess promising antibacterial activity and efficacy against experimental endometritis and, therefore, holds promising potential for development of effective formulation for treatment of endometritis in animals.

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Actinidia arguta extract attenuates inflammasome activation: Potential involvement in NLRP3 ubiquitination

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Kang-Hyuck Heo, Xiao Sun, Do-Wan Shim, Myong-Ki Kim, Sushruta Koppula, Sang–Hyeun Yu, Han-Bi Kim, Tack-Joong Kim, Tae-Bong Kang, Kwang-Ho Lee
Ethnopharmacological relevanceActinidia arguta (A. arguta) has been widely used in Asian countries as a traditional medicinal herb to treat inflammation-related diseases, such as gastritis, bronchitis, and arthritis.Aim of the studyThe inhibitory effect of A. arguta leaves' extract (AA) on inflammasome activation was investigated to verify its traditional use in treating inflammation-related diseases.Materials and methodsBone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) primed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were activated by selective inflammasome stimulators, and the effect of AA on inflammasome activation was investigated. A monosodium urate crystal (MSU)-induced peritonitis mouse model was used to study the in vivo efficacy of AA on inflammasome activation.ResultsIn the in vitro study, AA regulated NLRP3 ubiquitination and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) oligomerization, leading to the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated interleukin (IL)-1β secretion. The inhibitory effect of AA on inflammasome activation in vitro was further confirmed in vivo using an MSU-induced peritonitis mouse model.ConclusionAA provided scientific evidence, substantiating the traditional claims for its use in the treatment of inflammation and inflammation-mediated metabolic disorders, including gout.

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Oral chronic toxicity study of geniposide in rats

Publication date: 1 March 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 213
Author(s): Jingzhuo Tian, Yan Yi, Yong Zhao, Chunying Li, Yushi Zhang, Lianmei Wang, Chen Pan, Jiayin Han, Guiqin Li, Xiaolong Li, Jing Liu, Nuo Deng, Yue Gao, Aihua Liang
Ethnopharmacological relevanceGeniposide, the major active constituent of Fructus Gardeniae (FG), has been widely used to treat various diseases in China.Aim of the studyThis chronic toxicity study was conducted to investigate the safety of geniposide.Materials and methodsGeniposide was administered to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats of both sexes by oral gavage at dosages of 25, 50, or 100mg/kg in a volume of 10mL/kg once daily for 26 weeks. Endpoints included clinical observations, food consumption, body weights, blood biochemistry, haematology, and histomorphological observations.ResultsThe administration of geniposide did not influence animal mortality, the general conditions of the animals, body weights or food consumption. After 4 weeks of administration, significant toxicity was not observed. However, in the 13th week of the toxicity study, a few haematological parameters and some relative organ weights of male rats in the 50 and 100mg/kg geniposide groups were significantly increased. The percentage of reticulocytes (Retic %) was significantly increased in male and female rats administered 100mg/kg geniposide. In addition, two female rats in the 100mg/kg geniposide group showed slight pathological changes in hepatic and renal tissues. Furthermore, in a chronic (26 weeks) toxicity study, differences were detected in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), and haemoglobin (HGB) levels and the relative weights of the liver and spleen in male rats administered 100mg/kg geniposide. In addition, differences were detected in Retic % and the relative weights of the liver, thymus, and kidneys in female rats administered 100mg/kg geniposide. Urinalysis results from male and female rats in the 100mg/kg geniposide group revealed noticeable changes. The histopathological structures of hepatic and renal tissues in the high-dose geniposide group exhibited serious abnormalities and pigment deposition.ConclusionGeniposide affected serum biochemistry, urinalysis, and haematological parameters as well as relative organ weights. The treatment also caused noticeable pathological abnormalities in liver and kidney tissues. Therefore, administration of a high dose of geniposide (100mg/kg) for 26 weeks could induced obvious liver and kidney damage.

Graphical abstract

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Psoriasis in Skin of Color: Insights into the Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Genetics, Quality-of-Life Impact, and Treatment of Psoriasis in Non-White Racial/Ethnic Groups

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting diverse racial/ethnic groups throughout the world. Large population-based studies suggest that psoriasis occurs most often in individuals of European ancestry, followed by black and Hispanic individuals, although the true prevalence of psoriasis in non-white individuals is likely underestimated. Despite similarities in psoriasis between ethnic groups, there are notable differences in the presentation, quality-of-life impact, and treatment of psoriasis with important implications for the management of non-white individuals. Overall, heterogeneity in psoriasis susceptibility alleles, in combination with cultural and socioeconomic factors, may explain these differences. In this article, we review the epidemiology, clinical presentation, genetic polymorphisms, quality-of-life impact, and treatment nuances of psoriasis in patients with skin of color.

http://ift.tt/2kr0uDr

Scholar : Angelaki, Volume 22, Issue 4, December 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

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The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content Angelaki, Volume 22, Issue 4, December 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online. general issue 2017. issue editor: salah el moncef This new issue contains the following articles: Editorial GENERAL ISSUE 2017 Salah El Moncef Pages: 1-2 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406041 Original Articles DIGITAL CINEMA AND ECSTATIC TECHNOLOGY frame rates, shutter speeds, and the optimization of cinematic movement Todd Jurgess Pages: 3-17 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406042 THE SPECTACULAR ANTHROPOCENE Andrew Kalaidjian Pages: 19-34 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406044 RETHINKING BEGINNINGS AS SUBJECTIVE LOSS IN NARRATIVE AND THE THEATRE philippe lacoue-labarthe's l' "allégorie" and scène Peter Poiana Pages: 35-47 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406045 MICHEL FOUCAULT, FRIEDRICH KITTLER, AND THE INTERMINABLE HALF-LIFE OF "SO-CALLED MAN" Thomas Sutherland & Elliot Patsoura Pages: 49-68 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406047 LOVE'S LESSONS intimacy, pedagogy and political community Timothy Laurie & Hannah Stark Pages: 69-79 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406048 BODIES AT LIBERTY IN KATHY ACKER'S DON QUIXOTE Shannon Finck Pages: 81-97 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406049 TOWARDS AN ETHICS OF SHAME Zlatan Filipovic Pages: 99-114 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406050 DIALECTICS IN TURMOIL adorno's literal reading of sade William S. Allen Pages: 115-131 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406051 THE DOG AND THE PARAKEET lacan among the animals Peter Buse Pages: 133-145 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406052 HOMO SACER DWELLS IN SARAMAGO'S LAND OF EXCEPTION blindness and the cave Hania A.M. Nashef Pages: 147-160 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406053 "MAKING REASON THINK MORE" laughter in kant's aesthetic philosophy Patrick T. Giamario Pages: 161-176 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406055 AN INTERVIEW WITH LUCE IRIGARAY ON THROUGH VEGETAL BEING: TWO PHILOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVES AND SEXUATE DIFFERENCE Andrea Wheeler Pages: 177-181 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406056 Notes on Contributors notes on the contributors Pages: 183-185 | DOI: 10.1080/0969725X.2017.1406057 Browse this free access collection on: Communication, Media and Culture in Asia. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Photobiomodulation therapy protects skeletal muscle and improves muscular function of mdx mice in a dose-dependent manner through modulation of dystrophin

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the protective effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) with combination of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and light emitting diode therapy (LEDT) on skeletal muscle tissue to delay dystrophy progression in mdx mice (DMD^mdx ). To this aim, mice were randomly divided into five different experimental groups: wild type (WT), placebo-control (DMD^mdx ), PBMT with doses of 1 J (DMD^mdx ), 3 J (DMD^mdx ), and 10 J (DMD^mdx ). PBMT was performed employing a cluster probe with 9 diodes (1 x 905nm super-pulsed laser diode; 4 x 875nm infrared LEDs; and 4 x 640nm red LEDs, manufactured by Multi Radiance Medical®, Solon - OH, USA), 3 times a week for 14 weeks. PBMT was applied on a single point (tibialis anterior muscle—bilaterally). We analyzed functional performance, muscle morphology, and gene and protein expression of dystrophin. PBMT with a 10 J dose significantly improved (p < 0.001) functional performance compared to all other experimental groups. Muscle morphology was improved by all PBMT doses, with better outcomes with the 3 and 10 J doses. Gene expression of dystrophin was significantly increased with 3 J (p < 0.01) and 10 J (p < 0.01) doses when compared to placebo-control group. Regarding protein expression of dystrophin, 3 J (p < 0.001) and 10 J (p < 0.05) doses also significantly showed increase compared to placebo-control group. We conclude that PBMT can mainly preserve muscle morphology and improve muscular function of mdx mice through modulation of gene and protein expression of dystrophin. Furthermore, since PBMT is a non-pharmacological treatment which does not present side effects and is easy to handle, it can be seen as a promising tool for treating Duchenne's muscular dystrophy.

http://ift.tt/2zOHkKg

The impact of internet use on air pollution: Evidence from emerging countries

Abstract

The goal of this study is to analyze the impact of Internet use, employed as a proxy for information and communications technologies (ICTs), on CO₂ emissions. Using a panel of 20 emerging economies spanning the period 1990 to 2015, this paper finds that increased Internet access results in lower levels of air pollution. Moreover, panel causality test results highlight a unidirectional causality running from Internet use to CO₂ emissions. This result also has crucial policy implications for the governments in emerging markets. For instance, increased investment in the ICT sector could be a plausible channel to reduce air pollution level.

http://ift.tt/2ikkxij

Magnetic Alginate Microfibers as Scaffolding Elements for the Fabrication of Microvascular-like Structures

Publication date: Available online 28 November 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Tao Sun, Qing Shi, Qiang Huang, Huaping Wang, Xiaolu Xiong, Chengzhi Hu, Toshio Fukuda
Traditional cell-encapsulating scaffolds may elicit adverse host responses and inhomogeneity in cellular distribution. Thus, fabrication techniques for cellular self-assembly with micro-scaffold incorporation have been used recently to generate toroidal cellular modules for the bottom-up construction of vascular-like structures. The micro-scaffolds show advantage in promoting tissue formation. However, owing to the lack of annular cell micro-scaffolds, it remains a challenge to engineer micro-scale toroidal cellular modules (micro-TCMs) to fabricate microvascular-like structures. Here, magnetic alginate microfibers (MAMs) are used as scaffolding elements, where a winding strategy enables them to be formed into micro-rings as annular cell micro-scaffolds. These micro-rings were investigated for NIH/3T3 fibroblast growth as a function of surface chemistry and MAM size. Afterwards, micro-TCMs were successfully fabricated with the formation of NIH/3T3 fibroblasts and extracellular matrix layers on the three-dimensional micro-ring surfaces. Simple non-contact magnetic assembly was used to stack the micro-TCMs along a micro-pillar, after which cell fusion rapidly connected the assembled micro-TCMs into a microvascular-like structure. Endothelial cells or drugs encapsulated in the MAMs could be included in the microvascular-like structures as in vitro cellular models for vascular tissue engineering, or as miniaturization platforms for pharmaceutical drug testing in the future.Statement of significanceMagnetic alginate microfibers functioned as scaffolding elements for guiding cell growth in micro-scale toroidal cellular modules (micro-TCMs) and provided a magnetic functionality to the micro-TCMs for non-contact 3D assembly in external magnetic fields.By using the liquid/air interface, the non-contact spatial manipulation of the micro-TCMs in the liquid environment was performed with a cost-effective motorized electromagnetic needle.A new biofabrication paradigm of construct of microvascular-like structure. The micro-tubal-shaped structures allowed direct cell-to-cell contact that solved problems of cell-encapsulating scaffolds.

Graphical abstract

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Cavitation Nucleation in Gelatin: Experiment and Mechanism

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Wonmo Kang, Adnan Ashfaq, Thomas O'Shaughnessy, Amit Bagchi
Dynamic cavitation in soft materials is becoming increasingly relevant due to emerging medical implications such as the potential of cavitation-induced brain injury or cavitation created by therapeutic medical devices. However, the current understanding of dynamic cavitation in soft materials is still very limited, mainly due to lack of robust experimental techniques. To experimentally characterize cavitation nucleation under dynamic loading, we utilize a recently developed experimental instrument, the integrated drop tower system. This technique allows quantitative measurements of the critical acceleration (acr) that corresponds to cavitation nucleation while concurrently visualizing time evolution of cavitation. Our experimental results reveal that acr increases with increasing concentration of gelatin in pure water. Interestingly, we have observed the distinctive transition from a sharp increase (pure water to 1% gelatin) to a much slower rate of increase (∼10x slower) between 1% and 7.5% gelatin. Theoretical cavitation criterion predicts the general trend of increasing acr, but fails to explain the transition rates. As a likely mechanism, we consider concentration-dependent material properties and non-spherical cavitation nucleation sites, represented by pre-existing bubbles in gels, due to possible interplay between gelatin molecules and nucleation sites. This analysis shows that cavitation nucleation is very sensitive to the initial configuration of a bubble, i.e., a non-spherical bubble can significantly increase acr This conclusion matches well with the experimentally observed liquid-to-gel transition in the critical acceleration for cavitation nucleation.Statement of SignificanceFrom a medical standpoint, understanding dynamic cavitation within soft materials, i.e. tissues, is important as there are both potential injury implications (blast-induced cavitation within the brain) as well as treatments utilizing the phenomena (lithotripsy). In this regard, the main results of the present work are (1) quantitative characterization of cavitation nucleation in gelatin samples as a function of gel concentration utilizing well-controlled mechanical impacts and (2) mechanistic understanding of complex coupling between cavitation and liquid-/solid-like material properties of gel. The new capabilities of testing soft gels, which can be tuned to mimic material properties of target organs, at high loading rate conditions and accurately predicting their cavitation behavior are an important step towards developing reliable cavitation criteria in the scope of their biomedical applications.

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In vivo performance of freeze-dried decellularized pulmonary heart valve allo- and xenografts orthotopically implanted into juvenile sheep

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Tobias Goecke, Karolina Theodoridis, Igor Tudorache, Anatol Ciubotaru, Serghei Cebotari, Robert Ramm, Klaus Höffler, Samir Sarikouch, Andrés Vásquez-Rivera, Axel Haverich, Willem F. Wolkers, Andres Hilfiker
The decellularization of biological tissues decreases immunogenicity, allows repopulation with cells, and may lead to improved long-term performance after implantation. Freeze drying these tissues would ensure off-the-shelf availability, save storage costs, and facilitates easy transport. This study evaluates the in vivo performance of freeze-dried decellularized heart valves in juvenile sheep.TritonX-100 and sodium dodecylsulfate decellularized ovine and porcine pulmonary valves (PV) were freeze-dried in a lyoprotectant sucrose solution. After rehydration for 24h, valves were implanted into the PV position in sheep as allografts (fdOPV) and xenografts (fdPPV), while fresh dezellularized ovine grafts (frOPV) were implanted as controls. Functional assessment was performed by transesophageal echocardiography at implantation and at explantation six months later. Explanted grafts were analysed histologically to assess the matrix, and immunofluorescence stains were used to identify the repopulating cells.Although the graft diameters and orifice areas increased, good function was maintained, except for one insufficient, strongly deteriorated frOPV. Cells which were positive for either endothelial or interstitial markers were found in all grafts. In fdPPV, immune-reactive cells were also found.Our findings suggest that freeze-drying does not alter the early hemodynamic performance and repopulation potential of decellularized grafts in vivo, even in the challenging xenogeneic situation. Despite evidence of an immunological reaction for the xenogenic valves, good early functionalities were achieved.Statement of significanceDecellularized allogeneic heart valves show excellent results as evident from large animal experiments and clinical trials. However, a long-term storing method is needed for an optimal use of this limited resource in the clinical setting, where an optimized matching of graft and recipient is requested. As demonstrated in this study, freeze-dried and freshly decellularized grafts reveal equally good results after implantation in the juvenile sheep concerning function and repopulation with recipients′ cells. Thus, freeze-drying arises as a promising method to extend the shelf-life of valvular grafts compared to those stored in antibiotic-solution as currently practised.

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Magnesium-based Bioceramics in Orthopedic Applications

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Maryam Nabiyouni, Theresa Brückner, Huan Zhou, Uwe Gbureck, Sarit B. Bhaduri
Magnesium ions are directly involved in numerous biological mechanisms; for example, they play an important part in the regulation of ion channels, DNA stabilization, enzyme activation and stimulation of cell growth and proliferation. This alkaline earth metal has gained great popularity in orthopedic applications in recent years. Magnesium-based bioceramics include a large group of magnesium containing compounds such as oxides, phosphates and silicates, that are involved in orthopedic applications like bone cements, bone scaffolds or implant coatings. This article aims to give a comprehensive review on different magnesium-based bioceramics, e.g. magnesium phosphates (MgO-P2O5), calcium magnesium phosphates (CaO-MgO-P2O5), and magnesium glasses (SiO2-MgO) with a strong focus on the chemistry and properties of magnesium phosphate containing cements as the main application form. In addition, the processing of magnesium phosphate minerals into macroporous scaffolds for tissue engineering applications by either using traditional porogens or by additive manufacturing approaches are reflected. Finally, the biological in vitro and in vivo properties of magnesium phosphates for bone regeneration are summarized, which show promising results regarding the application as bone replacement material, but still lack in terms of testing in large animal models, load-bearing application sites and clinical data.Statement of SignificanceThough bone substitutes from calcium phosphates have been investigated for a long time, a new trend is visible in the biomaterials sector: magnesium based bioceramics from magnesium phosphates and silicates due to the special biological significance of magnesium ions in enzymatic activation, cell growth and proliferation, etc. In contrast to pure magnesium implants, such formulations do not release hydrogen during degradation. As with calcium based bioceramics, magnesium based bioceramics are used for the development of diverse applications such as cements, macroporous scaffolds, nanoparticles and coatings. From this perspective, we present a systematic overview on diverse kinds of magnesium based bioceramics, their processing regimes for different clinical purposes and their behavior both in vitro and in vivo.

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A Sterilization Method for Decellularized Xenogeneic Cardiovascular Scaffolds

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Cátia Fidalgo, Laura Iop, Manuela Sciro, Michael Harder, Dimosthenis Mavrilas, Sotirios Korossis, Andrea Bagno, Giorgio Palù, Paola Aguiari, Gino Gerosa
Decellularized xenogeneic scaffolds have shown promise to be employed as compatible and functional cardiovascular biomaterials. However, one of the main barriers to their clinical exploitation is the lack of appropriate sterilization procedures. This study investigated the efficiency of a two-step sterilization method, antibiotics/antimycotic (AA) cocktail and peracetic acid (PAA), on porcine and bovine decellularized pericardium. In order to assess the efficiency of the method, a sterilization assessment protocol was specifically designed, comprising: i) controlled contamination with a known amount of bacteria; ii) sterility test; iii) identification of contaminants through MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight) mass spectrometry and iv) quantification by the Most Probable Number (MPN) method. This sterilization assessment protocol proved to be a successful tool to monitor and optimize the proposed sterilization method. The treatment with AA+PAA method provided sterile scaffolds while preserving the structural integrity and biocompatibility of the decellularized porcine and bovine tissues. However, on porcine pericardium surface properties and cellular adhesion resulted slightly impaired. This work developed a sterilization method suitable for decellularized pericardial scaffolds that could be adopted for in vivo tissue engineering. Together with the proposed sterilization assessment protocol, this decontamination method will foster the clinical translation of decellularized xenogeneic substitutes.Statement of SignificanceClinical application of functional and compatible xenogeneic decellularized scaffolds has been delayed due to the lack of appropriate sterilization methodologies. In this study, it was investigated an effective sterilization method optimized for porcine and bovine decellularized pericardia, based on the use of antibiotics/antimycotics followed by peracetic acid treatment. This treatment effectively sterilizes both species scaffolds, proves to maintain tissue overall structure and components, preserves biocompatibility and biomechanical properties. Furthermore, it was also developed a sterilization assessment protocol used to monitor and validate the previous method, consisting in three main parts: i) controlled contamination; ii) sterility test, and iii) identification and quantification of contaminants. Both methodologies were optimized for the tissues in study but can be applied to other scaffolds and accelerate their clinical translation.

Graphical abstract

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Pressure-induced Microstructural Changes in Porcine Tricuspid Valve Leaflets

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Anup D. Pant, Vineet S. Thomas, Anthony L. Black, Taylor Verba, John G. Lesicko, Rouzbeh Amini
Quantifying mechanically-induced changes in the tricus anisotropy index, a measure ofpid valve extracellular matrix (ECM) structural components, e.g. collagen fiber spread and distribution, is important as it determines the overall macro-scale tissue responses and subsequently its function/malfunction in physiological/pathophysiological states. For example, functional tricuspid regurgitation, a common tricuspid valve disorder, could be caused by elevated right ventricular pressure due to pulmonary hypertension. In such patients, the geometry and the normal function of valve leaflets alter due to chronic pressure overload, which could cause remodeling responses in the ECM and change its structural components. To understand such a relation, we developed an experimental setup and measured alteration of leaflet microstructure in response to pressure increase in porcine tricuspid valves using the small angle light scattering technique. The the fiber spread and distribution, was obtained and averaged for each region of the anterior, posterior, and septal leaflet using four averaging methods. The average anisotropy indices (mean±standard error) in the belly region of the anterior, posterior, and septal leaflets of non-pressurized valves were found to be 12±2%, 21 ±3% and 12±1%, respectively. For the pressurized valve, the average values of the anisotropy index in the belly region of the anterior, posterior, and septal leaflets were 56±5%, 39±7% and 32±5%, respectively. Overall, the average anisotropy index was found to be higher for all leaflets in the pressurized valves as compared to the non-pressurized valves, indicating that the ECM fibers became more aligned in response to an increased ventricular pressure.Statement of SignificanceMechanics plays a critical role in development, regeneration, and remodeling of tissues. In the current study, we have conducted experiments to examine how increasing the ventricular pressure leads to realignment of protein fibers comprising the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the tricuspid valve leaflets. Like many other tissues, in cardiac valves, cell-matrix interactions and gene expressions are heavily influenced by changes in the mechanical microenvironment at the ECM/cellular level. We believe that our study will help us better understand how abnormal increases in the right ventricular pressure (due to pulmonary hypertension) could change the structural architecture of tricuspid valve leaflets and subsequently the mechanical microenvironment at the ECM/cellular level.

Graphical abstract

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Viscoelastic properties of human pancreatic tumors and in vitro constructs to mimic mechanical properties

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Andres Rubiano, Daniel Delitto, Song Han, Michael Gerber, Carly Galitz, Jose Trevino, Ryan M. Thomas, Steven J. Hughes, Chelsey S. Simmons
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is almost universally fatal, in large part due to a protective fibrotic barrier generated by tumor-associated stromal (TAS) cells. This barrier is thought to promote cancer cell survival and confounds attempts to develop effective therapies. We present a 3D in vitro system that replicates the mechanical properties of the PDAC microenvironment, representing an invaluable tool for understanding the biology of the disease. Mesoscale indentation quantified viscoelastic metrics of resected malignant tumors, inflamed chronic pancreatitis regions, and histologically normal tissue. Both pancreatitis (2.15 ± 0.41 kPa, Mean ± SD) and tumors (5.46 ± 3.18 kPa) exhibit higher Steady-State Modulus (SSM) than normal tissue (1.06 ± 0.25 kPa; p < 0.005). The average viscosity of pancreatitis samples (63.2 ± 26.7 kPa·s) is significantly lower than that of both normal tissue (252 ± 134 kPa·s) and tumors (349 ± 222 kPa·s; p < 0.005). To mimic this remodeling behavior, PDAC and TAS cells were isolated from human PDAC tumors. Conditioned media from PDAC cells was used to culture TAS-embedded collagen hydrogels. After 7 days, TAS-embedded gels in control medium reached SSM (1.45 ± 0.12 kPa) near normal pancreas, while gels maintained with conditioned medium achieved higher SSM (3.38 ± 0.146 kPa) consistent with tumors. Taken together, we have demonstrated an in vitro system that recapitulates in vivo stiffening of PDAC tumors. In addition, our quantification of viscoelastic properties suggests that elastography algorithms incorporating viscosity may be able to more accurately distinguish between pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis.Statement of SignificanceUnderstanding tumor-stroma crosstalk in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is challenged by a lack of stroma-mimicking model systems. To design appropriate models, pancreatic tissue must be characterized with a method capable of evaluating in vitro models as well.Our indentation-based characterization tool quantified the distinct viscoelastic signatures of inflamed resections from pancreatitis, tumors from PDAC, and otherwise normal tissue to inform development of mechanically appropriate engineered tissues and scaffolds. We also made progress toward a 3D in vitro system that recapitulates mechanical properties of tumors. Our in vitro model of stromal cells in collagen and complementary characterization system can be used to investigate mechanisms of cancer-stroma crosstalk in PDAC and to propose and test innovative therapies.

Graphical abstract

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Effects of structurally stabilized EGF and bFGF on wound healing in type I and type II diabetic mice

Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Seong Mi Choi, Kyoung-Mi Lee, Hyun Jung Kim, Ik Kyu Park, Hwi Ju Kang, Hang-Cheol Shin, Dawoon Baek, Yoorim Choi, Kwang Hwan Park, Jin Woo Lee
Diabetes mellitus comprises a multiple metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and consequentially poses challenges for clinical treatment. Among the various complications, diabetic ulcer constitutes the most prevalent associated disorder and leads to delayed wound healing. To enhance wound healing capacity, we developed structurally stabilized epidermal growth factor (ST-EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (ST-bFGF) to overcome limitations of commercially available EGF (CA-EGF) and bFGF (CA-bFGF), such as short half-life and loss of activity after loading onto a matrix. Neither ST-EGF nor ST-bFGF was toxic, and both were more stable at higher temperatures than CA-EGF and CA-bFGF. We loaded ST-EGF and ST-bFGF onto a hyaluronate-collagen dressing (HCD) matrix, a biocompatible carrier, and tested the effectiveness of this system in promoting wound healing in a mouse model of diabetes. Wounds treated with HCD matrix loaded with 0.3 μg/cm² ST-EGF or 1 μg/cm² ST-bFGF showed a more rapid rate of tissue repair as compared to the control in type I and II diabetes models. Our results indicate that an HDC matrix loaded with 0.3 μg/cm² ST-EGF or 1 μg/cm² ST-bFGF can promote wound healing in diabetic ulcers and are suitable for use in wound dressings owing to their stability for long periods at room temperature.Statement of SignificanceVarious types of dressing materials loaded with growth factors, such as VEGF, EGF, and bFGF, are widely used to effect wound repair. However, such growth factor-loaded materials have several limitations for use as therapeutic agents in healing-impaired diabetic wounds. To overcome these limitations, we have developed new materials containing structurally stabilized EGF (ST-EGF) and bFGF (ST-bFGF). To confirm the wound healing capacity of newly developed materials (ST-EGF and ST-bFGF-loaded hyaluronate-collagen dressing [HCD] matrix, we applied these matrices in type I and type II diabetic wounds. Notably, these matrices were able to accelerate wound healing including re-epithelialization, neovascularization, and collagen deposition. Consequentially, these ST-EGF and ST-bFGF-loaded HCD matrix may be used as future therapeutic agents in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.

Graphical abstract

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Transplantation of human amnion prevents recurring adhesions and ameliorates fibrosis in a rat model of sciatic nerve scarring

Publication date: Available online 28 November 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Angela Lemke, James Ferguson, Kelly Gross, Carina Penzenstadler, Monika Bradl, Rupert Laurenz Mayer, Christopher Gerner, Heinz Redl, Susanne Wolbank
Peripheral nerve fibrosis and painful adhesions are common, recurring pathological sequelae following injury. In this study, vital human amnion (hAM), an increasingly interesting biomaterial for regenerative medicine, was investigated as a novel therapy. hAM was first analyzed in vitro regarding its anti-adhesive characteristics. Then, the reflected region of hAM which was identified as more suitable, was transplanted into female Sprague Dawley rats with recurring sciatic nerve scarring (n = 24) and compared with untreated controls (n = 30) at one, four and twelve weeks. Immune response and fibrosis was investigated by (immuno)histochemical analysis. Nerve structure was examined and function determined using electrophysiology and gait analysis. Here we identified strongly reduced adhesions in the hAM-treated rats, displaying a significant difference at four weeks post transplantation compared to untreated controls (p = 0.0052). This correlated with the in vitro cell attachment test on hAM explants, which demonstrated a distinctly limited ability of fibroblasts to adhere to amniotic epithelial cells. Upon hAM transplantation, significantly less intraneural fibrosis was identified at the later time points. Moreover, hAM-treated rats exhibited a significantly higher sciatic functional index (SFI) after four weeks compared to controls (p < 0.05), which indicated a potentially pro-regenerative effect of hAM. As a possible explanation, an impact of hAM on the endogenous immune response, including T cell and macrophage subsets, was indicated. We conclude that hAM is strongly effective against recurring nerve scarring and induces an anti-fibrotic and pro-regenerative effect, making it highly promising for treating adhesion-related disorders.Statement of significanceAbnormal fibrotic bonding of tissues, frequently involving peripheral nerves, affects millions of people worldwide. These so-called adhesions usually cause severe pain and drastically reduce quality of life. To date, no adequate treatment exists and none is routinely used in the clinical practice. In this study, vital human amnion, a part of the placenta, was transplanted in a rat model of peripheral nerve scarring and recurring adhesions as novel therapeutic approach. Amniotic cells have already demonstrated to feature stem-cell like properties and produce pro-regenerative factors, which makes the amnion an increasingly promising biomaterial for regenerative medicine. We identified that its transplantation was very effective against peripheral nerve scarring and distinctly reduced recurring adhesions. Moreover, we identified a pro-regenerative effect. This study showed that the amnion is a highly promising novel therapeutic approach for adhesion-related disorders.

Graphical abstract

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Microfluidic production of bioactive fibrin micro-beads embedded in crosslinked collagen used as an injectable bulking agent for urinary incontinence treatment

Publication date: Available online 29 November 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Vardar E, Larsson HM, Simone Allazetta, Engelhardt EM, Pinnagoda K, Vythilingam G, Hubbell JA, Lutolf MP, Frey P
Endoscopic injection of bulking agents has been widely used to treat urinary incontinence, often due to urethral sphincter complex insufficiency. The aim of the study was to develop a novel injectable bioactive collagen-fibrin bulking agent restoring long-term continence by functional muscle tissue regeneration. Fibrin micro-beads were engineered using a droplet microfluidic system. They had an average diameter of 140 μm, and recombinant fibrin-binding insulin-like growth factor-1 (α2PI1-8-MMP-IGF-1) was covalently conjugated to the beads. A plasmin fibrin degradation assay showed that 72.5 % of the initial amount of α2PI1-8-MMP-IGF-1 loaded into the micro-beads was retained within the fibrin micro-beads. In vitro, the growth factor modified fibrin micro-beads enhanced cell attachment and the migration of human urinary tract smooth muscle cells, however, no change of the cellular metabolic activity was seen. These bioactive micro-beads were mixed with genipin-crosslinked homogenized collagen, acting as a carrier. The collagen concentration, the degree of crosslinking, and the mechanical behavior of this bioactive collagen-fibrin injectable were comparable to reference samples. This novel injectable showed no burst release of the growth factor, had a positive effect on cell behavior and may therefore induce smooth muscle regeneration in vivo, necessary for the functional treatment of stress and other urinary incontinences.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ApuKEx

Contact Guidance Diversity in Rotationally Aligned Collagen Matrices

Publication date: Available online 28 November 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Jacob A.M. Nuhn, Anai M. Perez, Ian C. Schneider
Cancer cell metastasis is responsible for approximately 90% of deaths related to cancer. The migration of cancer cells away from the primary tumor and into healthy tissue is driven in part by contact guidance, or directed migration in response to aligned extracellular matrix. While contact guidance has been a focus of many studies, much of this research has explored environments that present 2D contact guidance structures. Contact guidance environments in 3D more closely resemble in vivo conditions and model cell-ECM interactions better than 2D environments. While most cells engage in directed migration on potent 2D contact guidance cues, there is diversity in response to contact guidance cues based on whether the cell migrates with a mesenchymal or amoeboid migration mode. In this paper, rotational alignment of collagen gels was used to study the differences in contact guidance between MDA-MB-231 (mesenchymal) and MTLn3 (amoeboid) cells. MDA-MB-231 cells migrate with high directional fidelity in aligned collagen gels, while MTLn3 cells show no directional migration. The collagen stiffness was increased through glycation, resulting in decreased MDA-MB-231 directionality in aligned collagen gels. Interestingly, partial inhibition of cell contractility dramatically decreased directionality in MDA-MB-231 cells. The directionality of MDA-MB-231 cells was most sensitive to ROCK inhibition, but unlike in 2D contact guidance environments, cell directionality and speed are more tightly coupled. Modulation of the contractile apparatus appears to more potently affect contact guidance than modulation of extracellular mechanical properties of the contact guidance cue.Statement of SignificanceCollagen fiber alignment in the tumor microenvironment directs migration, a process called contact guidance, enhancing the efficiency of cancer invasion and metastasis. 3D systems that assess contact guidance by locally orienting collagen fiber alignment are lacking. Furthermore, cell type differences and the role of extracellular matrix stiffness in tuning contact guidance fidelity are not well characterized. In this paper rotational alignment of collagen fibers is used as a 3D contact guidance cue to illuminate cell type differences and the role of extracellular matrix stiffness in guiding cell migration along aligned fibers of collagen. This local alignment offers a simple approach by which to couple collagen alignment with gradients in other directional cues in devices such as microfluidic chambers.

Graphical abstract

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Breath figures in tissue engineering and drug delivery: state-of-the-art and future perspectives

Publication date: Available online 26 November 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Maria Teresa Calejo, Tanja Ilmarinen, Heli Skottman, Minna Kellomäki
The breath figure (BF) method is an easy, low-cost method to prepare films with a highly organized honeycomb-like porous surface. The particular surface topography and porous nature of these materials makes them valuable substrates for studying the complex effects of topography on cell fate, and to produce biomimetic materials with high performance in tissue engineering. Numerous researchers over the last two decades have studied the effects of the honeycomb topography on a variety of primary and immortalized cell lines, and drew important conclusions that can be translated to the construction of optimal biomaterials for cell culture. The literature also encouragingly shows the potential of honeycomb films to induce differentiation of stem cells down a specific lineage without the need for biochemical stimuli.Here, we review the main studies where BF honeycomb films are used as substrates for tissue engineering applications. Furthermore, we highlight the numerous advantages of the porous nature of the films, such as the enhanced, spatially controlled adsorption of proteins, the topographical cues influencing cellular behavior, and the enhanced permeability which is essential both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, this review highlights the elegant use of honeycomb films as drug-eluting biomaterials or as reservoirs for distinct drug delivery systems.Statement of SignificanceCombining biocompatible surfaces and 3D nano/microscale topographies, such as pores or grooves, is an effective strategy for manufacturing tissue engineering scaffolds. The breath figure (BF) method is an easy technique to prepare cell culture substrates with an organized, honeycomb-like porous surface. These surface features make these scaffolds valuable for studying how the cells interact with the biomaterials. Their unique surface topography can also resemble the natural environment of the tissues in the human body. For that reason, numerous studies, using different cell types, have shown that honeycomb films can constitute high performance substrates for cell culture. Here, we review those studies, we highlight the advantages of honeycomb films in tissue engineering and we discuss their potential as unique drug-eluting systems.

Graphical abstract

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The role of body image concern, sexual body image, and sexual self-esteem in the happiness of women seeking rhinoplasty surgery

Abstract

Background

This study aims to investigate the role of body image concern, sexual body image, and sexual self-esteem in the happiness of women seeking rhinoplasty surgery.

Methods

This study had a descriptive correlational design. Cases were defined as subjects who presented to beauty centers in Tehran. A convenience sample of 65 women participated. Each woman completed Oxford Happiness Inventory (OHI), Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI), Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire (BESAQ), and Sexual Self-Esteem Index for Woman-Short Form (SSEI-W-SF). The data were analyzed with Pearson correlation coefficient and stepwise regression.

Results

The results showed that that there is a significant relationship between happiness with body image concern, sexual body image, and sexual self-esteem of people seeking rhinoplasty surgery (P < 0.05). Body image concern and sexual body image could predict 23% of the variance of happiness (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

A lower rate of body image concern predicts higher happiness in women seeking rhinoplasty surgery.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, risk/prognostic study.

http://ift.tt/2iRGYzi

Probing the toxicity mechanism of multiwalled carbon nanotubes on bacteria

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged recently as superior adsorbent materials for the removal of recalcitrant pollutants. The potential of combining the sorption capability of CNTs with bacterial degradation for pollutant removal, however, necessitates further investigation of the mechanisms of CNTs' toxicity towards bacterial cells. In this study, we used a panel of stress-responsive recombinant Escherichia coli bioluminescence bacterial strains to explore the possible mechanisms of toxicity of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The effects of MWCNTs on markers of oxidative stress, protein, DNA, and membrane damage enabled the exposition of some of the mechanisms of their antimicrobial properties. Using both a bioluminescence bioreporter panel and live/dead staining, we observed that membrane damage played a role in the toxicity of MWCNTs. A subsequent viability study using three strains of bacteria—two gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and one gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis)—showed significant MWCNT toxicity in hypotonic water and phosphate-buffered saline solution, compared with the MWCNT toxicity towards the same bacteria incubated in isotonic-rich media. Using a field-emission scanning electron microscope, we demonstrated that membrane damage is caused largely by MWCNTs trapping bacteria and piercing the cell walls. As a result of our observations, we propose integrating MWCNTs and bacteria degradation for pollutant removal in nutrient-rich media to minimize the toxicity effect of CNTs.

http://ift.tt/2AwXKIq

Does the air condition system in busses spread allergic fungi into driver space?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish whether the air-conditioning system in buses constitutes an additional source of indoor air contamination with fungi, and whether or not the fungi concentration depends on the period from the last disinfection of the system, combined with replacement of the cabin dust particle filter. The air samples to fungi analysis using impact method were taken in 30 buses (20 with an air-conditioning system, ACS; 10 with a ventilation system, VS) in two series: 1 and 22 weeks after cabin filter replacement and disinfection of the air-conditioning system. During one test in each bus were taken two samples: before the air-conditioning or ventilation system switched on and 6 min after operating of these systems. The atmospheric air was the external background (EB). After 1 week of use of the system, the fungi concentrations before starting of the ACS and VS system were 527.8 and 1053.0 cfu/m³, respectively, and after 22 weeks the concentrations were 351.9 and 1069.6 cfu/m³, respectively. While in the sample after 6 min of ACS and VS system operating, the fungi concentration after 1 week of use was 127.6 and 233.7 cfu/m³, respectively, and after 22 weeks it was 113.3 and 324.9 cfu/m³, respectively. Results do not provide strong evidence that air-conditioning system is an additional source of indoor air contamination with fungi. A longer operation of the system promoted increase of fungi concentration in air-conditioned buses only.

http://ift.tt/2AsAf5w