Occurrence of double primary malignancies in an African renal transplant recipient

A 63-year-old African male with end stage renal disease who received a renal transplantation from his daughter after successful treatment of hepatitis C virus, type 1 genotype developed metastatic Kaposi's sarcoma and subsequently adenocarcinoma of the prostate. He was successfully treated with chemotherapy and reduction of immunosuppression and switch over to rapamycin.

Chitosan based biocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

The clinical demand for scaffolds and the diversity of available polymers provide freedom in the fabrication of scaffolds to achieve successful progress in bone tissue engineering (BTE). Chitosan (CS) has drawn much of the attention in recent years for its use as graft material either as alone or in a combination with other materials in BTE. The scaffolds should possess a number of properties like porosity, biocompatibility, water retention, protein adsorption, mechanical strength, biomineralization and biodegradability suited for BTE applications. In this review, CS and its properties, and the role of CS along with other polymeric and ceramic materials as scaffolds for bone tissue repair applications are highlighted.

A Combinatorial effect of carboxymethyl cellulose based scaffold and microRNA-15b on osteoblast differentiation

The present study was aimed to synthesize and characterize a bio-composite scaffold containing carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), zinc doped nano-hydroxyapatite (Zn-nHAp) and ascorbic acid (AC) for bone tissue engineering applications. The fabricated bio-composite scaffold was characterized by SEM, FT-IR and XRD analyses. The ability of scaffold along with a bioactive molecule, microRNA-15b (miR-15b) for osteo-differentiation at cellular and molecular levels was determined using mouse mesenchymal stem cells (mMSCs). miR-15b acts as posttranscriptional gene regulator and regulates osteoblast differentiation. The scaffold and miR-15b were able to promote osteoblast differentiation; when these treatments were combined together on mMSCs, there was an additive effect on promotion of osteoblast differentiation. Thus, it appears that the combination of CMC/Zn-nHAp/AC scaffold with miR-15b would provide more efficient strategy for treating bone related defects and bone regeneration.

In vitro toxicity, apoptosis and antimicrobial effects of phyto-mediated copper oxide nanoparticles

Herein, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are proposed for widespread use in emerging biomedical applications.

A comparative evaluation and optimization of performance and emission characteristics of a DI diesel engine fueled with n-propanol/diesel, n-butanol/diesel and n-pentanol/diesel blends using response surface methodology

A comparative evaluation of emissions and performance of a diesel engine fueled with three high carbon bio-alcohol/diesel blends was carried out using a statistical approach.

Dental caries status of inmates in central prison, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Aim:

To understand the dental health among prison inmates, we assessed the dental caries status of central prison inmates in Chennai, India.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 1060 inmates from three divisions of the central prison in Chennai were assessed by a single investigator for dental caries status based on World Health Organization specifications.

Results:

Among the inmates, 58.2% of males and 54.2% of females had decayed teeth. About 4.1% of males and 2.9% of females had filled teeth. The mean decayed, missing, filled teeth index was 5.1 and 3.9 for female and male prisoners, respectively. The prevalence of dental caries was highest among inmates younger than 24 years age.

Conclusion:

Our study suggests that a high proportion of prison inmates was affected by dental caries, which necessitates the need for initiating oral health promotion activities among prison inmates.

Role of Mesoporous Wollastonite (Calcium Silicate) in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Osteoblast Differentiation: A Cellular and Molecular Study

Wollastonite (calcium silicate) has been widely used in bone tissue engineering, but its mechanism of action on the regulation of mesenchymal stem cell proliferation and differentiation to osteoblasts still remains unclear. The current study utilized an inexpensive source of rice straw ash to synthesize wollastonite with mesoporous architecture. Mesoporous-wollastonite (m-WS) particles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. These particles were found to be biocompatible with mouse mesenchymal stem cells (C3H10T1/2) and significantly stimulated cell proliferation by promoting the entry of the cell population from the G0/G1 phase into the S and G2/M phases via the upregulated expression of the cyclin B1 and cyclin E genes. Under osteogenic conditions, m-WS particles promoted osteoblast differentiation as indicated by calcium deposits and upregulated mRNA expression of osteoblast differentiation marker genes determined by real-time RT-PCR, depicting the osteoconductive nature of these particles. Runx2, a bone-specific transcription factor responsible for the expression of osteoblast differentiation marker genes, was upregulated in C3H10T1/2 cells. The expression of Runx2 co-regulators like Sirt-1, a positive regulator, and HDAC-4, a negative regulator, were upregulated and downregulated, respectively, by m-WS particles in these cells. Thus, this study provides a detailed insight into the effect of m-WS particles on mesenchymal stem cells at the molecular and cellular levels for in vitro bone formation.

Scaffolds containing chitosan/carboxymethyl cellulose/mesoporous wollastonite for bone tissue engineering

Scaffold based bone tissue engineering utilizes a variety of biopolymers in different combinations aiming to deliver optimal properties required for bone regeneration. In the current study, we fabricated bio-composite scaffolds containing chitosan (CS), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) with varied concentrations of mesoporous wollastonite (m-WS) particles by the freeze drying method. The CS/CMC/m-WS scaffolds were characterized by the SEM, EDS and FT-IR studies. Addition of m-WS particles had no effect on altering the porosity of the scaffolds. m-WS particles at 0.5% concentration in the CS/CMC scaffolds showed significant improvement in the bio-mineralization and protein adsorption properties. Addition of m-WS particles in the CS/CMC scaffolds significantly reduced their swelling and degradation properties. The CS/CMC/m-WS scaffolds also showed cyto-friendly nature to human osteoblastic cells. The osteogenic potential of CS/CMC/m-WS scaffolds was confirmed by calcium deposition and expression of an osteoblast specific microRNA, pre-mir-15b. Thus, the current investigations support the use of CS/CMC/m-WS scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.

Rhizophoramucronatavar.alokii - a new variety of mangrove species from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India (Rhizophoraceae)

Rhizophoramucronatavar.alokii (Rhizophoraceae), a new variety of Rhizophora from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, is described and illustrated. The new variety is remarkable in having four stamens, laterally folded leaves, a short peduncle, thick leathery petals, and a four-sided ovary with a sessile style. A key for the species of Rhizophora of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is also provided.

Nanohydroxyapatite-reinforced chitosan composite hydrogel for bone tissue repair in vitro and in vivo

Background

Bone loss during trauma, surgeries, and tumor resection often results in critical-sized bone defects that need to be filled with substitutionary materials. Complications associated with conventional grafting techniques have led to the development of bioactive tissue-engineered bone scaffolds. The potential application of hydrogels as three-dimensional (3D) matrices in tissue engineering has gained attention in recent years because of the superior sensitivity, injectability, and minimal invasive properties of hydrogels. Improvements in the bioactivity and mechanical strength of hydrogels can be achieved with the addition of ceramics. Based on the features required for bone regeneration, an injectable thermosensitive hydrogel containing zinc-doped chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite/beta-glycerophosphate (Zn-CS/nHAp/β-GP) was prepared and characterized, and the effect of nHAp on the hydrogel was examined.

Methods

Hydrogels (Zn-CS/β-GP, Zn-CS/nHAp/β-GP) were prepared using the sol–gel method. Characterization was carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) as well as swelling, protein adsorption, and exogenous biomineralization studies. Expression of osteoblast marker genes was determined by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot analyses. In vivo bone formation was studied using a rat bone defect model system.

Results

The hydrogels exhibited sol–gel transition at 37°C. The presence of nHAp in the Zn-CS/nHAp/β-GP hydrogel enhanced swelling, protein adsorption, and exogenous biomineralization. The hydrogel was found to be non-toxic to mesenchymal stem cells. The addition of nHAp to the hydrogel also enhanced osteoblast differentiation under osteogenic conditions in vitro and accelerated bone formation in vivo as seen from the depositions of apatite and collagen.

Conclusions

The synthesized injectable hydrogel (Zn-CS/nHAp/β-GP) showed its potential toward bone formation at molecular and cellular levels in vitro and in vivo. The current findings demonstrate the importance of adding nHAp to the hydrogel, thereby accelerating potential clinical application toward bone regeneration.

Effect of size of bioactive glass nanoparticles on mesenchymal stem cell proliferation for dental and orthopedic applications

Bioactive glass nanoparticles (nanostructured bioglass ceramics or nBGs) have been widely employed as a filler material for bone tissue regeneration. The physical properties of nBG particles govern their biological actions. In this study, the impact of the size of nBG particles on mouse mesenchymal stem cell (mMSC) proliferation was investigated. Three different sizes of nBG particles were prepared via the sol-gel method with varying concentrations of the surfactant and polyethylene glycol (PEG), and the particles were characterized. Increased concentrations of PEG decreased the size of nBG particles (nBG-1: 74.7±0.62 nm, nBG-2: 43.25±1.5 nm, and nBG-3: 37.6±0.81 nm). All three nBGs were non-toxic at a concentration of 20mg/mL. Increased proliferation was observed in mMSCs treated with smaller nBG particles. Differential mRNA expression of cyclin A2, B2, D1, and E1 genes induced by nBG particles was noticed in the mMSCs. nBG-1 and nBG-3 particles promoted cells in the G0/G1 phase to enter the S and G2/M phases. nBG particles activated ERK, but prolonged activation was achieved with nBG-3 particles. Among the prepared nBG particles, nBG-3 particles showed enhanced mMSC proliferation via the sustained activation of ERKs, upregulation of cyclin gene(s) expression, and promotion of cell transition from the G0/G1 phase to the S and G2/M phases. Thus, this study indicates that small nBG particles have clinical applications in dental and bone treatments as fillers or bone-tissue bond forming materials.

Conformational stability, spectroscopic (FT-IR, FT-Raman and UV-Vis) analysis, NLO, NBO, FMO and Fukui function analysis of 4-hexylacetophenone by density functional theory

The experimental and theoretical study on the structures and vibrations of 4-hexylacetophenone (abbreviated as 4HAP) are presented. The FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of the title compound have been recorded in the region 4000-400cm(-1) and 3500-100cm(-1) respectively. The molecular structures, vibrational wavenumbers, infrared intensities and Raman activities were calculated using DFT (B3LYP and LSDA) method with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The most stable conformer of 4HAP is identified from the computational results. The assignments of the vibrational spectra have been carried out with the aid of normal coordinate analysis (NCA) following the scaled quantum mechanical force field methodology (SQMEF). The linear polarizability (α) and the first hyperpolarizability (βtot) values of the investigated molecule have been computed using B3LYP and LSDA with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. Stability of the molecule arising from hyper conjugative interaction and charge transfer delocalization has been analyzed using natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. The molecule orbital contributions are studied by density of energy states (DOSs). UV-Vis spectrum and effects of solvents have been discussed effects of solvents have been discussed and the electronic properties such as HOMO and LUMO energies were determined by time-dependent TD-DFT approach. Fukui function and Mulliken analysis on atomic charges of the title compound have been calculated. Finally, electrophilic and nucleophilic descriptors of the title molecule have been calculated.

Bioassay guided fractionation and identification of active anti-inflammatory constituent from Delonix elata flowers using RAW 264.7 cells

CONTEXT

Delonix elata (L.) Gamble (Fabaceae) has been used in the Indian traditional medicine system to treat rheumatism and inflammation.

AIM

To assess the anti-inflammatory effect of Delonix elata flowers and to isolate the active principle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prompt anti-inflammatory constituent was isolated from Delonix elata flower extracts using bioassay guided fractionation in liposaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. The anti-inflammatory activity of extracts/fractions/sub-fractions/compounds (10, 25, and 50 µg/ml) was evaluated by estimating the levels of nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, and IL-1β after 24 h of LPS induction (1 μg/ml). The isolated active compound was subjected to NMR, IR, and UV analyses for structure determination.

RESULTS

In an attempt to search for anti-inflammatory constituents, the active pure principle was isolated and crystallized as a white compound from Delonix elata flowers methanol extract. This active compound (50 µg/ml) decreased the release of inflammatory mediators levels such as NO (0.263 ± 0.03 µM), TNFα (160.20 ± 17.57 pg/ml), and IL-1β (285.79 ± 15.16 pg/ml) significantly (p < 0.05); when compared to the levels of NO (0.774 ± 0.08 µM), TNFα (501.71 ± 25.14 pg/ml), and IL-1β (712.68 ± 52.25 pg/ml) from LPS-stimulated macrophage cells. The active compound was confirmed as hesperidin with NMR, IR, and UV spectroscopy data. This is the first report of this compound from Delonix elata flowers.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study support the traditional use of Delonix elata flowers to treat inflammation.

Enantioselective Strecker reaction of aldimines using potassium cyanide catalyzed by a recyclable macrocyclic V(v) salen complex

Chiral dimeric V(v) salen complexes have been synthesized and used as catalysts for asymmetric Strecker reaction of N-benzylimines using both KCN to produce chiral α-amino nitrile. The catalyst was recycled upto five times without loss in its activity.

Study on return to work following surgery on patients with thoracolumbar fracture

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to find rate of return to work of surgically treated thoracolumbar fracture patients and to know if back pain, compensation issues or neurological status influence this rate.

METHODOLOGY

A retrospective cohort study analysing the patients with thoracolumbar fractures treated surgically from January 2008 till December 2009.

RESULTS

Neurological status is the main factor deciding return to work in this group. Back pain and compensation related issues were not statistically significant in influencing return to work. 74% of patients in this group return to work.

CONCLUSION

Return to work among the patients with thoracolumbar fracture, treated surgically, is mainly dependent on neurological status and not the compensation related issues or back pain.

Quantum mechanical study and spectroscopic (FT-IR, FT-Raman, UV-Visible) study, potential energy surface scan, Fukui function analysis and HOMO-LUMO analysis of 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol by DFT methods

This study represents an integral approach towards understanding the electronic and structural aspects of 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol (TBMP). Fourier-transform Infrared (FT-IR) and Fourier-transform Raman (FT-Raman) spectra of TBMP was recorded in the region 4000-400 cm(-1) and 3500-100 cm(-1), respectively. The molecular structures, vibrational wavenumbers, infrared intensities and Raman activities were calculated using DFT (B3LYP and LSDA) methods using 6-311++G (d,p) basis set. The most stable conformer of TBMP was identified from the computational results. The assignments of vibrational spectra have been carried out with the help of normal co-ordinate analysis (NCA) following the scaled quantum mechanical force field (SQMFF) methodology. The first order hyperpolarizability (β0) and related properties (β, α0 and Δα) of TBMP have been discussed. The stability and charge delocalization of the molecule was studied by Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) analysis. UV-Visible spectrum and effects of solvents have been discussed and the electronic properties such as HOMO and LUMO energies were determined by time-dependent TD-DFT approach with B3LYP/6-311++G (d,p) level of theory. The molecule orbital contributions are studied by density of energy states (DOSs). The reactivity sites are identified by mapping the electron density into electrostatic potential surface (MEP). Mulliken analysis of atomic charges is also calculated. The thermodynamic properties at different temperatures were calculated, revealing the correlations between standard heat capacities, standard entropy and standard enthalpy changes with temperatures. Global hardness, global softness, global electrophilicity and ionization potential of the title compound are determined.

Sequencing approaches in cancer treatment

Use of sequencing approaches is an important aspect in the field of cancer genomics, where next-generation sequencing has already been utilized for targeting oncogenes or tumour-suppressor genes, that can be sequenced in a short time period. Alterations such as point mutations, insertions/deletions, copy number alterations, chromosomal rearrangements and epigenetic changes are encountered in cancer cell genomes, and application of various NGS technologies in cancer research will encounter such modifications. Rapid advancement in technology has led to exponential growth in the field of genomic analysis. The $1000 Genome Project (in which the goal is to sequence an entire human genome for $1000), and deep sequencing techniques (which have greater accuracy and provide a more complete analysis of the genome), are examples of rapid advancements in the field of cancer genomics. In this mini review, we explore sequencing techniques, correlating their importance in cancer therapy and treatment.

Effects of silica and calcium levels in nanobioglass ceramic particles on osteoblast proliferation

At nanoscale, bioglass ceramic (nBGC) particles containing calcium oxide (lime), silica and phosphorus pentoxide promote osteoblast proliferation. However, the role of varied amounts of calcium and silica present in nBGC particles on osteoblast proliferation is not yet completely known. Hence, the current work was aimed at synthesizing two different nBGC particles with varied amounts of calcium oxide and silica, nBGC-1: SiO2:CaO:P2O5; mol%~70:25:5 and nBGC-2: SiO2:CaO:P2O5; mol%~64:31:5, and investigating their role on osteoblast proliferation. The synthesized nBGC particles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. They exhibited their size at nanoscale and were non-toxic to human osteoblastic cells (MG-63). The nBGC-2 particles were found to have more effect on stimulation of osteoblast proliferation and promoted entering of more cells into G2/M cell cycle phase compared to nBGC-1 particles. There was a differential expression of cyclin proteins in MG-63 cells by nBGC-1 and nBGC-2 treatments, and the expression of cyclin B1 and E proteins was found to be more by nBGC-2 treatment. Thus, these results provide us a new insight in understanding the design of various nBGC particles by altering their ionic constituents with desirable biological properties thereby supporting bone augmentation.

Dancing eyes dancing feet syndrome-a report of two cases

Opsoclonus Myoclonus (OMS) is a rare neurological disorder which appears to be the result of an autoimmune dysfunction. It is an extremely rare condition, affecting as few as 1 in 10,000,000 people every year. It affects 2 to 3% of children. Opsoclonus Myoclonus, which manifests itself as post infectious encephalopathy, occasionally along with HIV infection, post Streptococcal infection, West Nile virus encephalitis and Rickettsial infection, most often presents as a paraneoplastic syndrome, which is especially caused by occult neuroblastoma which is commonly seen in childhood and occurs in adults in relation to breast cancer and small cell lung cancer. In this study, two adult post infectious cases which had rare manifestations, have been presented. The cases were managed by using corticosteroids.

Myroides pelagicus from the gut of Drosophila melanogaster attenuates inflammation on dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer a health benefit on the host when administered in adequate amounts. In the present study, the putative probiotic strain was identified from the gut of Drosophila melanogaster and assessed for its protective effect in inflammatory bowel disease.

METHODS

Active probiotics were screened from the Drosophila melanogaster gut by the selection criteria of gastric juice tolerance, hydrophobic property, antimicrobial potential, adhesion, and invasion properties. The active probiotics were identified by 16s rDNA sequencing and the effect of these active probiotics was evaluated in a Dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced mice model by estimating inflammatory markers and histopathological changes.

RESULTS

Nine Gram-positive and bile salt tolerant bacterial isolates were obtained from the gut samples. The isolates PTH 2, PTH 4, and PTH 7 clearly showed significant activity in antimicrobial potential, hydrophobic (>74%) property, and intestinal juice tolerance. Among these, PTH 7 was selected for further studies due to its significant low-invasion ability and it proved capable of reducing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. The 16s rDNA studies revealed that PTH 7 was Myroides pelagicus. Administration of M. pelagicus to the DSS-induced colitic animals significantly suppressed myeloperoxidase, ALP, and malondialdehyde levels, and also lowered levels of proinflammatory cytokine expression. Further, the recovery from the disease by the probiotic treatment was supported by histopathological and macroscopic observation. The treated animals did not show any adverse signs in their physiology or behavior.

CONCLUSION

Myroides pelagicus successfully prohibited inflammatory markers and acted as a potent probiotic. Future studies with this stain might prove its efficacy as a drug for the management of colitis.

Synthesis and characterization of diopside particles and their suitability along with chitosan matrix for bone tissue engineering in vitro and in vivo

The scaffolds for bone tissue engineering should be porous to harbor the growth of new tissue ingrowths, biodegradable with no toxic end products, and biocompatible with no cytotoxicity. In this study we report that Diopside (CaMgSi2O6) (Dp) particles can be synthesized at a more economical route using the agricultural waste rice straw. Along with chitosan (CS) matrix, the CS/Dp scaffolds were synthesized and evaluated for their physico-chemical properties by SEM, EDS, XRD, FT-IR studies. Addition of Dp particles to chitosan matrix decreased water retention capacity but there was no change in their degradation properties. Dp particles in CS/Dp scaffolds exhibited good affinity for protein adsorption. Apatite forming ability of the CS/Dp scaffolds depicted their bioactivity. These scaffolds were found to be compatible with human osteoblastic cells (MG-63) and the cells were able to attach and proliferate with extended morphology on the CS/Dp membranes. The CS/Dp scaffolds supported up regulation of mRNA expression of osteoblast differentiation marker genes such alkaline phosphatase (ALP), type I collagen (COL-I) in the presence of osteogenic environment suggesting their osteo-conductive nature. In vivo rat model system identified that the CS/Dp scaffolds are biocompatible and may have the property of recruiting cells due to deposition of collagen. Hence, these studies suggest that the prepared CS/Dp scaffolds have potential applications towards bone tissue engineering.

Conformational stability, molecular orbital studies (chemical hardness and potential), vibrational investigation and theoretical NBO analysis of 4-tert-butyl-3-methoxy-2,6-dinitrotoluene

The FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of 4-tert-butyl-3-methoxy-2,6-dinitrotoluene (musk ambrette) have been recorded in the regions 4000-400 cm(-1) and 3500-100 cm(-1), respectively. The total energy calculations of musk ambrette were tried for the possible conformers. The molecular structure, geometry optimization, vibrational frequencies were obtained by the density functional theory (DFT) using B3LYP and LSDA method with 6-311G(d,p) basis set for the most stable conformer "C1". The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the potential energy distribution (PED) of the vibrational modes, calculated and the scaled values were compared with experimental FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra. The observed and the calculated frequencies are found to be in good agreement. The stability of the molecule arising from hyper conjugate interactions and the charge delocalization has been analyzed using bond orbital (NBO) analysis. The HOMO and LUMO energy gap reveals that the energy gap reflects the chemical activity of the molecule. The dipole moment (μ), polarizability (α), anisotropy polarizability (Δα) and first hyperpolarizability (βtot) of the molecule have been reported. The thermodynamic functions (heat capacity, entropy and enthalpy) were obtained for the range of temperature 100-1000 K. Information about the size, shape, charge density distribution and site of chemical reactivity of the molecule has been obtained by mapping electron density isosurface with molecular electrostatic potential (MEP).

Phytofabrication of gold nanoparticles assisted by leaves of Suaeda monoica and its free radical scavenging property

Development of biologically inspired experimental processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles is evolving into an important branch of nanotechnology. An eco-friendly synthesis of inorganic nanoparticle is a fast growing research in the limb of nanotechnology. In the present study, it is reported that Suaeda monoica leaf mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles by the reduction of gold ions. The formation of gold nanoparticle was confirmed by color changes from turbid brown to deep purple violet color and a characteristic peak at 535 nm. The morphology and structure of synthesized gold nanoparticles were characterized on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with a Thermo EDAX attachment, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), (FT-IR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) which reveals that the Au nanoparticles are spherical and the average particle size is 12.96 nm. Crystalline nature of the nanoparticles is confirmed from the XRD pattern. FTIR spectrum indicates that the biomolecules of carboxyl, amine and hydroxyl functional groups involved in the reduction of gold nanoparticles. The biosynthesized gold nanoparticles displayed considerable antioxidant capacity.

Swertiamarin attenuates inflammation mediators via modulating NF-κB/I κB and JAK2/STAT3 transcription factors in adjuvant induced arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disease that leads to pannus formation followed by severe joint destruction, characterized by synovial hyperplasia, inflammation and angiogenesis. Swertiamarin is a secoiridoid glycoside that is used as an anti-inflammatory compound, mainly found in Enicostema axillare (Lam) A. Raynal, a medicinal plant used in Indian system of traditional medicine. In the present study, the effect of swertiamarin was evlauated in experimental adjuvant arthritis animal model by the estimation of biochemical (paw thickness, lysosomal enzymes, and urinary degradative products) parameters, proinflammatory cytokines and enzymes along with histopathological and radiographic observations. The proteins of phosphorylated NF-κB/IκB and JAK2/STAT3 transcription factors were also quantified from experimental animals as well as LPS induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. In in silico analysis, swertiamarin was docked with proinflammatory enzymes to confirm its potential. The administration of swertiamarin (2, 5, 10mg/kg bw) significantly (P⩽0.05) inhibited the levels of paw thickness, lysosomal enzymes and increased the body weight of experimental animals in a dose dependent manner. In molecular analysis, the treatment decreased the release of proinflammatory cytokines (IL1, TNF, IL-6) and proangiogenic enzymes (MMPs, iNOS, PGE2, PPARγ and COX-2); and also significantly (P⩽0.05) increased the levels of antiinflammatory proteins (IL-10, IL-4) when compared to the disease groups. The swertiamarin treatment significantly (P⩽0.05) inhibited the release of NF-κB p65, p-IκBα, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 signaling proteins levels on both experimental animals and LPS induced cells. Histopathological and radiological analysis evidenced the curative effect of swertiamarin on bone destruction. The docking studies of swertiamarin on proinflammatory enzymes supported the results from the in vivo experiments. Thus the swertiamarin inhibited the development of arthritis by modulating NF-κB/IκB and JAK2/STAT3 signaling. These findings suggested that swertiamarin acted as an anti-rheumatic agent.

Abstract P3-13-09: Relative dose intensity of taxane-based chemotherapy in patients with stage IV breast cancer

Background: Maintaining high relative dose intensity (RDI) has been associated with improved disease-free survival, progression-free survival, and overall survival of patients with breast cancer treated in the adjuvant setting. Neutropenia and related complications, such as febrile neutropenia, are common side effects of myelosuppressive chemotherapy that can lead to dose delays, dose reductions, and reduced RDI. Primary prophylaxis with colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) can reduce the duration and severity of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia, thereby supporting high RDI. For patients with stage IV breast cancer, dose delays and dose reductions are frequently used to manage toxicity associated with myelosuppressive chemotherapy. However, the prevalence and impact of reduced RDI in the metastatic disease setting is poorly understood.

Objective: To estimate mean chemotherapy RDI and incidences of dose delays, dose reductions, RDI &lt;85%, and primary CSF prophylaxis among women with stage IV breast cancer receiving first-line chemotherapy.

Methods: Using the McKesson Specialty Health/US Oncology iKnowMed™ electronic health record (HER) database, we retrospectively identified adult women with stage IV breast cancer who initiated first-line, intravenous, myelosuppressive chemotherapy from January 2007 to December 2010 in community oncology practices in the US. Patients were assigned to chemotherapy cohorts based on myelosuppressive agents received in cycle 1 and planned regimen information in the database. Standard chemotherapy regimens were defined based on NCCN breast cancer guidelines and clinical studies. Mean RDI and incidences of dose delays ≥7 days, dose reductions ≥15%, and RDI &lt;85% in any cycle during the course of chemotherapy were evaluated relative to the standard chemotherapy regimen. Primary CSF prophylaxis was defined as first receipt of CSF during the first 5 days of chemotherapy cycle 1. Patients were followed for up to 6 months after chemotherapy initiation.

Results: This study included 1471 patients with stage IV breast cancer who received myelotoxic chemotherapy. The most common chemotherapy regimens in the metastatic setting were taxane-based, and endpoints for the three most common chemotherapy regimens (n = 307) are shown in the Table.

 Paclitaxel/ BevacizumabaAlbumin-bound PaclitaxelbPaclitaxelcN1767556Age, mean (SD) years58.2 (11.9)63.6 (12.4)61.8 (13.8)RDI, mean (SE)89.0% (1.9)89.1% (3.1)89.0% (3.2)RDI &lt;85%37.5%41.3%26.8%Dose delays ≥7 days36.9%22.7%32.1%Dose reductions ≥15%40.9%61.3%8.9%CSF primary prophylaxis0%1.3%3.6%aPaclitaxel 80-90 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 and bevacizumab 10 mg/kg on days 1 and 15 (cycle length 28 days). Paclitaxel dose at cycle 1, day 1 was defined as the standard dose for this regimen; bAlbumin-bound paclitaxel 100 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 (cycle length 28 days); cPaclitaxel 80 mg/m2 (cycle length 7 days).

Conclusions: Chemotherapy dose delays, dose reductions, and reduced RDI were common in patients with stage IV breast cancer. The impact of RDI on progression-free and overall survival is being evaluated and will be presented.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P3-13-09.

Abstract P3-12-07: Dose delays, dose reductions, and relative dose intensity in early stage breast cancer patients receiving (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy in community oncology practices

Background: Neutropenic complications, such as febrile neutropenia (FN), often necessitate delays or reductions in doses of myelosuppressive chemotherapy. The resulting reduced relative dose intensity (RDI) may lead to poorer disease-free survival and overall survival among patients with early stage (stage I-IIIA) breast cancer (ESBC) (Chirivella, 2009; Wildiers, 2011).

Methods: Using the McKesson Specialty Health/US Oncology iKnowMed™ HER database, we retrospectively identified the first course of (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy received by female adult patients with ESBC who initiated treatment from 1/1/2007-3/31/2011. We then assigned patients to chemotherapy cohorts (standard regimens described in the NCCN breast cancer guidelines or in published phase 3 trials) based on chemotherapy agents received in cycle 1 and planned regimen information in the database. Only standard regimen cohorts containing ≥100 patients were included in this study. For each standard regimen cohort, we estimated the following statistics: the proportion of patients receiving colony-stimulating factor (CSF) prophylaxis in the first 5 days of cycle 1; mean RDI; and the incidences of reduced RDI (&lt;85% over the course), dose delays (≥7 days in any cycle of the course), and dose reductions (≥15% in any cycle of the course) relative to the corresponding standard regimens. We conducted similar analyses of patient subgroups based on patient age and body surface area (BSA) at the time chemotherapy was initiated.

Results:

Study results by standard regimen cohortStandard regimen cohortNAge, mean (SD)CSF prophylaxis in cycle 1,%Mean RDI,% (SE)RDI &lt;85%,%Dose delay ≥7 days,%Dose reduction ≥15%,%TC (4-cycle)3,41457.4 (11.0)50.789.6 (0.3)19.524.623.0TAC1,56750.6 (9.7)91.885.7 (0.5)27.136.234.8Dose-dense AC→Q2W paclitaxel1,27150.9 (10.3)89.193.5 (0.2)15.738.227.1TC (6-cycle)1,18057.3 (11.0)49.983.9 (0.6)34.440.741.7TCH1,13854.2 (11.5)55.679.4 (0.7)43.445.458.5AC→QW paclitaxel42153.9 (11.3)28.390.3 (0.5)21.957.046.6Dose-dense AC40451.9 (10.5)86.180.7 (1.1)42.344.838.4Dose-dense AC→QW paclitaxel38050.5 (10.2)92.191.1 (0.5)25.359.540.5AC39555.4 (11.1)30.482.9 (1.1)33.938.533.2AC→Q3W paclitaxel16655.7 (10.8)38.690.0 (0.7)28.350.644.0AC→docetaxel13456.0 (10.5)33.684.4 (0.9)44.854.576.1TC: docetaxel, cyclophosphamide; TAC: docetaxel, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide; AC: doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide; TCH: docetaxel, carboplatin, trastuzumab; QW/Q2W/Q3W: every 1/2/3 week(s)

Discussion: Chemotherapy dose delays, dose reductions, and reduced RDI were common in patients with ESBC treated in community oncology practices and their frequencies were higher in older patients and in patients with BSA &gt;2 m2. Further research should evaluate the impact of these factors on patient outcomes.

Study results by patient subgroupSubgroupNMean RDI,% (SE)RDI &lt;85%,%Dose delay ≥7 days,%Dose reduction ≥15%,%Age &lt;503,67788.6 (0.3)23.634.231.2Age 50-644,70487.6 (0.2)25.835.534.0Age 65-741,68784.7 (0.5)32.039.740.5Age ≥7540279.4 (1.2)42.046.549.2BSA ≤2 m28,62787.8 (0.2)25.335.833.5BSA &gt;2 m21,84384.5 (0.4)33.237.639.8

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P3-12-07.

Abstract P2-16-09: Retrospective analysis of long-term survivors with HER2+ metastatic breast cancer (MBC) treated with trastuzumab in a community setting

Background: The median survival for patients (pts) receiving trastuzumab (T) in the metastatic setting is approximately 3 years. There are limited data on real world use and outcomes in T treated pts who live longer than 3 years. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize pts with HER2+ MBC who initiated treatment with T (alone or in combination) in a community setting and to determine their treatment patterns and outcomes, including duration of treatment, overall survival (OS) and time to permanent discontinuation of T. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed using the IKnowMed electronic medical record (EMR) used by the US Oncology Network with the primary time period of 2007 through Dec. 2012. Eligible pts had at least 2 visits at practice locations with full EMR capability. Pts on T when the EMR was implemented had chart review to determine the dates of diagnosis and start of T treatment. Results: The study population included 1856 women with HER2+ MBC who started T (alone or in combination with chemotherapy or hormonal therapy); 873 presented with MBC and 983 developed recurrence following diagnosis of early-stage disease. The median age was 58, range 23 to 96, 59% had ER+ cancer, 64% were postmenopausal and 35% had multiple sites of disease at presentation. Median OS for the entire group was 40.9 months and the median time to permanent discontinuation of T was slightly less, at 39.9 months. Interestingly, the median OS and duration of T use were similar in the recurrent MBC population and in the population who presented with de novo MBC. The proportion of pts receiving T and OS by year are presented (Table). Thirty-two percent of pts are still alive at 6 years, with 17% continuing to receive T.

Outcomes of 1856 Patients Treated with TrastuzumabYear1356Pts still receiving T (%)82%53%27%17%OS (%)84%54%36%32%

Ongoing analysis will evaluate whether there are pt and treatment characteristics that may predict for longer term OS. Conclusions: Using an EMR database we identified 1856 women with HER2+ MBC who initiated treatment with T (alone or in combination) with one third still alive at 5 years and 27% still on T. Future research that focuses on understanding the characteristics of this population can potentially improve care for women with HER2+ MBC with T and newer anti-HER2 agents.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P2-16-09.